Album Art: Courtesy Universal Music Group

Reggae legend Bob Marley's musical legacy lives on through the forthcoming release of "Africa Unite," a posthumous album that pays homage to his iconic career and celebrates the fusion of reggae and Afrobeats.

The album, scheduled to be unveiled on August 4, presents a collection of Marley's greatest hits reimagined with the infectious rhythms of Afrobeats, featuring collaborations with contemporary African musicians.

Among the ten tracks on "Africa Unite" are notable artists such as Sarkodie, Tiwa Savage, Teni and Oxlade. Each artist contributes their distinct style and talent to the project, breathing new life into Marley's timeless compositions. The album seamlessly blends the essence of reggae and Afrobeats, delivering heartfelt renditions of beloved songs like "Waiting In Vain" alongside the vibrant energy of "Stir It Up."

Highlighting the significance of the album, Cedella Marley, daughter of Bob Marley, said in a statement, "'Africa Unite' is an album that showcases the importance of Bob Marley in modern-day Africa. The artists featured on this album have reimagined Bob Marley's classics in a way that we know he would have loved and been proud of."

Bob Marley's influence on both reggae and Afrobeats music culture is widely recognized. His pioneering contributions to reggae led to his posthumous induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. Additionally, his impact on Afrobeats, a popular genre originating from Africa, is evident in the incorporation of reggae elements such as guitar riffs and offbeat rhythms, creating a captivating fusion that resonates with audiences and continues to shape the genre's evolution.

The album's release is spearheaded by the debut single, a fresh rendition of Bob Marley's timeless anthem "Three Little Birds," performed by emerging Nigerian artists Teni and Oxlade. This rendition preserves the essence of the original while infusing it with an afro-fusion twist, showcasing the contemporary sound that permeates the entire album.

Click here to stream a preview of "Africa Unite."

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts announced today the selection of five honorees for the 46th Kennedy Center Honors, and Grammy and Emmy Award-winning artists Queen Latifah and music legend Dionne Warwick are among the distinguished recipients to be celebrated at the annual national celebration of the arts in December.

Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter said in a statement that the honorees each "explored new terrain, stretched artistic boundaries, and most importantly, committed to sharing their gifts with the world."

Queen Latifah, known as the "First Lady of Hip Hop," has played a pivotal role in shaping and innovating the art form since its early days. Her contributions as a rapper, singer, and actress have left an indelible mark on the music industry and beyond.

In response to her inclusion as an honoree, Queen Latifah expressed her gratitude, stating, "I'm humbled to be included in this incredible list of artists honored by the Kennedy Center. The work the Kennedy Center does is immeasurable, so I'm beyond grateful for this recognition."

Dionne Warwick, the soulful songstress, has captivated audiences worldwide with her signature voice and a trove of hits spanning over six decades. With more than 60 charted hit songs and over 100 million records sold, Warwick has firmly established herself as a music legend.

Reflecting on her honorary title, Warwick shared her joy, saying, "I'm exceptionally happy to be honored by the Kennedy Center. It's very exciting to be recognized for my contributions to the music industry for the past 60 years."

Joining Queen Latifah and Warwick as honorees are actor and comedian Billy Crystal, acclaimed soprano Renée Fleming, and British singer-songwriter, producer, and Bee Gees member Barry Gibb.

Crystal, renowned for his comedic talent, has provided audiences with memorable stand-up moments and hilarious Hollywood scenes for over five decades. Fleming, known as "America's soprano," has brought opera into the mainstream with her luminous voice and artistry. Gibb, along with his late brothers Robin and Maurice, set the music world ablaze in the '60s and continued to define the modern dance era with their distinctive falsetto sound and groovy style.

The 46th Kennedy Center Honors will take place in December. The star-studded celebration, held on the stage of the Kennedy Center Opera House, will feature leading performers from New York, Hollywood, and arts capitals worldwide paying homage to the honorees.

Gloria Estefan, a former Kennedy Center Honoree, will return as the host of this year's ceremony, marking her third time in this role. The awards will air on CBS and stream on Paramount+ on December 3.

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.

Dr. Dre to receive inaugural Hip-Hop Icon Award from ASCAP.

The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) Rhythm & Soul department will honor multi-platinum-selling producer and artist Dr. Dre with the inaugural ASCAP Hip-Hop Icon Award.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the music licensing group announced that the eight-time Grammy Award winner will receive the award, which recognizes ASCAP members who have made a lasting impact on the art and culture of hip-hop, during Thursday's ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards Celebration of 50 Years of Hip-Hop in Los Angeles.

Paul Williams, ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President, praised the selection, stating, "Dr. Dre's groundbreaking early work laid a foundation for hip-hop as we know it today. As a champion for some of today's biggest artists and a successful entrepreneur, he changed the culture around hip-hop."

Williams added, "Dre continues to be a pivotal figure in the music industry, and we are thrilled to recognize him with the inaugural ASCAP Hip-Hop Icon Award as we mark 50 years of hip-hop."

Dr. Dre, an award-winning artist, producer, founder, and CEO of Aftermath Entertainment and Beats Electronics, has enjoyed an illustrious career spanning decades. He started as a member of the World Class Wreckin' Cru before co-founding the groundbreaking group N.W.A.

In 1992, the Compton, California native launched his solo career with the release of his debut album, "The Chronic." The album achieved triple platinum certification from the RIAA, reached the top 10 on the Billboard 200, and earned Dr. Dre a Grammy for Best Rap Solo Performance with the hit track "Let Me Ride."

Dr. Dre's Aftermath Entertainment has played a crucial role in discovering and nurturing hip-hop superstars such as 50 Cent, Kendrick Lamar, Anderson .Paak and Eminem. Additionally, his collaboration with Jimmy Iovine led to the establishment of Beats Electronics in 2008, followed by the launch of Beats Music. Both ventures were acquired by Apple in 2014.

Beyond music, Dr. Dre's accomplishments extend to other creative endeavors. His contributions to the HBO docuseries "The Defiant Ones" earned him a Grammy and an Emmy. Furthermore, the Pepsi Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show, featuring Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, and 50 Cent secured three Emmy Awards.

In 2013, Dr. Dre collaborated with Jimmy Iovine to establish the USC Jimmy Iovine and Andre Young Academy for Arts, Technology and the Business of Innovation. Last year, their efforts expanded to the Los Angeles Unified School District with the opening of the Iovine and Young Center (IYC) Integrated Design, Technology and Entrepreneurship (IDTE) Magnet, a high school offering cutting-edge curriculum to students.

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.

Just one day after venting her frustrations on social media, R&B legend Anita Baker has removed Babyface from her tour.

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.

 

Just in time for summer, T-Pain has put a spin on his iconic hip-hop hit "Buy U a Drank" to pay homage to a fast-food legend — Wendy's Frosty.

The Grammy-winning artist took his chart-topping single and gave it an icy makeover in a music video directed by Miles & AJ of SixTwentySix.

The video starts with T-Pain chilling in his studio, but in a magical twist, the scene transforms into a Wendy's restaurant. With his signature swagger, he grabs the mic and serves up a surreal summer anthem that might just leave fans craving Wendy's famous frozen dairy dessert."I loved Wendy's 'We Beefin?' mixtape back in 2018, and knew I wanted to work with them when the time was right. I couldn't pass up the opportunity to remake a classic with one of the most classic menu items of all time – the Wendy's Frosty," he said, expressing his excitement about the collaboration. This latest partnership adds to Wendy's growing list of musical collaborations.

In the previous "We Beefin?" mixtape, which paid homage to Biggie Smalls' debut studio album "Ready to Die," T-Pain even featured media personality and hip-hop icon Wendy Williams on a track. The mixtape sparked a playful feud with McDonald's, with tracks like "Rest in Grease" calling out the fast-food giant's shortcomings.The lyrics took aim at McDonald's by saying, "You’re No. 1? That’s a joke/Why your ice cream machine always broke?/Why your drive-through always slow?/Why your innovation just can’t grow?... McDonald’s be so lazy/ I know the reason you hate me/ ’Cause I’m fast food’s First Lady/ It’s Queen Wendy up in this thang... Y’all are too chicken for this beef."

To sweeten the chances of success for this collaboration, Wendy's and T-Pain are giving fans a tasty incentive. From June 5 to the first day of summer, June 21, fans can enjoy a FREE small Frosty with any purchase. To claim their free Frosty, fans can use the offer in the Wendy's app or on the website.

Check out the full "Buy U a Frosty" video below.

Courtesy Photo

Rap icon and actor Tupac Shakur will be posthumously honored with the 2,758th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on June 7.

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, which oversees the Walk of Fame, announced the news today.

Ana Martinez, the producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, expressed deep admiration for Tupac Shakur, recognizing his remarkable contributions as a rapper, actor, activist, poet and revolutionary.

"This iconic artist has remained an indelible part of our cultural fabric long after his untimely passing and will continue to be a significant figure for years to come," she said. "Without a doubt, as a hometown hero, Tupac's star will rank among the most frequented."

iHeart Media Radio Personality Big Boy will lead the star unveiling ceremony. Prominent guest speakers include Allen Hughes, the acclaimed filmmaker behind the groundbreaking docuseries "Dear Mama: The Saga of Afeni and Tupac Shakur," currently streaming on FX and Hulu. Accepting the star on behalf of the family will be Sekyiwa "Set" Shakur, the artist's sister.

Hughes' docuseries "Dear Mama" has captivated audiences, breaking records for FX and Hulu as the network's most-watched unscripted series debut in May, further amplifying Shakur's enduring cultural impact.

Shakur achieved global acclaim in a brief yet impactful music career and remains one of the most profound and prolific artists of his generation, with over 75 million records sold worldwide.

His albums "All Eyez on Me" and "Greatest Hits" achieved Diamond certification, surpassing ten million copies sold and securing their place among the best-selling albums of all time.

In 2017, he made history as the first solo hip-hop artist to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. He also left an indelible mark as an actor, receiving praise for his work in films such as "Juice," "Poetic Justice," "Above The Rim," "Gridlock'd" and "Gang Related."

Decades after his tragic demise, Shakur's influence continues to resonate throughout popular culture. From his groundbreaking hologram performance at the 2012 Coachella Music and Arts Festival to his spoken-word contribution on Kendrick Lamar's critically acclaimed album "To Pimp A Butterfly."

In 2015, the Grammy Museum unveiled the exhibit "All Eyez on Me: The Writings of Tupac Shakur" as a testament to his artistic prowess. In 2022, Los Angeles embraced the thought-provoking museum experience "Tupac Shakur: Wake Me When I'm Free," offering an immersive exploration of his life and legacy.

The dedication of Tupac Shakur's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame will be exclusively live-streamed on walkoffame.com.

"The Color Purple," a beloved literary classic, is making its way back to the big screen, this time as a musical.

Oprah Winfrey, known for her Oscar-nominated role as Sofia in the acclaimed 1985 film adaptation, is teaming up with Steven Spielberg, Scott Sanders, and Quincy Jones as an executive producer for the movie musical.

Winfrey expressed her personal connection to the story during a recent Q&A, stating, "'The Color Purple' had a profound impact on my life—it truly resonated with my own growth and journey." Her heartfelt words highlight the enduring power and universal themes of the narrative.

The cast of Blitz Bazawule’s ‘THE COLOR PURPLE’ starring Fantasia Barrino, Phylicia Pearl Mpasi, Taraji P. Henson, Colman Domingo, Halle Bailey, Danielle Brooks, H.E.R. and Corey Hawkins. pic.twitter.com/APbkcOFwaw

— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) May 22, 2023

The first trailer for the 2023 rendition of "The Color Purple" showcases a visually stunning production, captivating audiences with extravagant musical numbers and the electrifying vocals of Fantasia Barrino.

Based on Alice Walker's groundbreaking 1982 novel, the film features an exceptional cast. Danielle Brooks assumes the role of the fierce Sofia, while Barrino, celebrated for her mastery on Broadway as Celie, takes on the role of Celie's sister, originally portrayed by Whoopi Goldberg.

The star-studded ensemble also includes Taraji P. Henson, Colman Domingo, Corey Hawkins, Ciara, Halle Bailey and H.E.R.

Scheduled for a Christmas Day premiere, the movie promises to deliver a fresh perspective on "The Color Purple." Watch the trailer below for an exclusive glimpse into this highly-anticipated musical adaptation.

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..."

Jamie Foxx fans have been on an emotional rollercoaster in recent weeks as the Oscar and Grammy Award-winning actor, comedian, and singer was hospitalized due to an undisclosed medical issue while filming his latest movie, "Back in Action."

The news sparked an outpouring of concern, with friends and colleagues portraying a grave situation surrounding Foxx's hospitalization, leading to speculation about the condition of the "Ray" star.

However, on Friday, Foxx's daughter, Corinne Foxx, took to Instagram to provide an update, dispelling the rumors and offering reassurance. She confirmed that her father has made a steady recovery and is now back home.

"My Dad has been out of the hospital for weeks, recuperating. In fact, he was playing pickleball yesterday! Thanks for everyone's prayers and support!" she wrote, expressing gratitude for the well-wishes.

The positive news continued today as Foxx and Corinne, who previously worked together as host and house DJ respectively on "Beat Shazam," announced their latest project. The duo revealed their upcoming music-centric game show titled "We Are Family," which is scheduled to premiere on Fox in 2024.

"We are thrilled to be developing 'We Are Family' with Jeff Apploff and our friends at FOX Entertainment after the tremendous success of six seasons of 'Beat Shazam'," the duo said in a joint statement. "We hope this show brings as much fun to audiences at home as we've had creating it when it premieres next year."

"We Are Family" will feature non-famous relatives of celebrities performing duets with their hidden famous family members. The studio audience, consisting of 100 contestants, will have the opportunity to win up to $100,000 by correctly guessing the identities of the celebrity participants. The show will include a diverse range of celebrities from the music, sports and acting worlds. Foxx will also serve as an executive producer for the series.

An official release date for "We Are Family" has not yet been announced, but it is expected to debut sometime in 2024, promising an entertaining and engaging experience for audiences.

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:

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz signed a bill on Tuesday dedicating a seven-mile stretch of highway that runs through the Minneapolis suburbs of Chanhassen and Eden Prairie to honor the late Minnesota icon Prince.

The Purple One passed away in 2016 at the age of 57 due to an accidental overdose of fentanyl, leaving behind a legacy that includes a staggering 100 million records sold worldwide, induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and hits like "Purple Rain," "Let's Go Crazy," "When Doves Cry" and "1999."

Today, I signed a bill renaming a state highway in honor of Prince – an artist who transformed the music scene in Minnesota and across the world.

Prince was a proud Minnesotan through and through, and it's only fitting that we honor this icon in the community he called home. pic.twitter.com/bWYb6bHpif

— Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) May 9, 2023

"Prince transformed the music scene in Minnesota and across the world, and he continues to inspire to this day," said Walz, who used purple ink to sign the bill dedicating the roadway. "Prince was a proud Minnesotan through and through, and it is only fitting that we honor one of the greatest musical and creative icons in the community he called home."

Wonderful 2 hear that Minnesota Senate voted 55-5 4 renaming part of Highway 5 in Chanhassen 2 Prince Rogers Nelson Memorial Highway & for stipulating the sign must B in purple 💜#Prince #Prince4Ever #PaisleyPark #Love4OneAnother #PaisleyParkIsInUrHeart pic.twitter.com/TAGHlOqjly

— PrinceShop.Online (@RockItPooleUK) May 5, 2023

The roadway formerly known as Minnesota Highway 5 will now be called the Prince Rogers Nelson Memorial Highway, a fitting tribute to the legendary musician. The legislation was passed by both the House and Senate, with a requirement that the sign must be in purple. Four purple signs, paid for by Prince's friends and fans, will soon be placed along the highway.

Chanhassen is home to Paisley Park, Prince's 65,000-square-foot longtime home and recording complex, which is now a museum dedicated to the Purple One run by his estate. The new highway will run alongside Paisley Park Studios, where Prince would test out his new music with his engineers by riding up and down the highway, listening to how it sounded in the car.

"Prince gave us art, energy, beautiful poetry with his lyrics, and he was a constant symbol of peace, love, and unbridled joy in a world where we are often left standing alone in a world that is so cold," said Rep. Lucy Rehm (DFL-Chanhassen), the bill's author.

The legislation was passed on April 21, the seventh anniversary of Prince's death.

Courtesy Photo

Rapper and proud "girl dad" Ludacris has teamed up with Kellogg's Rice Krispies Treats to cook up a "sweet" collaboration aimed at bringing families together.

The limited-edition game set, called "Treat. Eat. Compete," includes five "sweet and silly" games inspired by Ludacris's chart-topping hits and, of course, Rice Krispies Treats.

"As a girl dad and a busy parent, spending quality time with my kids is so important to me, so playing games is a huge part of how we bond," Ludacris said in a statement announcing the partnership. "The 'Treat. Eat. Compete.' collab was the perfect way for me to share our family traditions with the world and inspire more families to get creative, connect, and maybe even get a little competitive. Plus, I'm excited to give back to a cause close to my heart, Boys & Girls Clubs of America."

In addition to donating over $100,000 to the organization, Rice Krispies Treats and Ludacris will contribute proceeds from the game set sales to support Boys & Girls Clubs of America and help create safe places for kids to play and compete.

The limited-edition game set features custom score sheets, markers, instruction cards, a bucket hat "winner crown" inspired by Ludacris, and a pack of Rice Krispies Treats. It is available for purchase for $20 exclusively at ricekrispiestreats.com.

Ludacris, whose real name is Chris Bridges, has five daughters: Karma, Cai, Cadence, Chance, and his oldest, Shaila Scott. He is known for his hits such as "Stand Up," "Money Maker," and "Move B*tch," as well as his long-running role as Tej Parker in the "Fast and Furious" series of blockbuster movies.

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

Megan Thee Stallion has opened up about her journey of healing after being shot by fellow rapper Tory Lanez in July 2020.

In an essay published Tuesday in Elle magazine, the three-time Grammy Award winner referred to herself as a survivor and reflected on the public humiliation she faced from Lanez.

“I don’t want to call myself a victim. As I reflect on the past three years, I view myself as a survivor because I have truly survived the unimaginable,” she wrote. “Not only did I survive being shot by someone I trusted and considered a close friend, but I overcame the public humiliation of having my name and reputation dragged through the mud by that individual for the entire world to see.”

Megan added that the physical and mental scars from the ordeal will always sting, but she is taking the appropriate steps to resume her life. She spent the last few months off social media and "taking time off for myself, spending time with my dogs, hanging out with my manager, Farris, and doing a lot of praying."

“I’m in a happier place, but I still have anxiety. Talking about being shot still makes me emotional,” she said. “I’ve started journaling as a way to better process my thoughts, hopes, and fears. Prayer has also played a therapeutic role in my healing because I can have honest and unfiltered conversations with God without any judgment.”

The rapper accused Lanez of shooting her after she exited a vehicle they had been riding in following an argument in the summer of 2020. He was charged with three counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm, carrying a loaded and unregistered firearm in a vehicle, and discharge of a firearm with gross negligence, according to prosecutors.

In December, Megan testified during his trial, and a Los Angeles jury ultimately found Lanez guilty, convicting him on all three counts.

The guilty verdict was more than just vindication for her, she wrote – "it was a victory for every woman who has ever been shamed, dismissed, and blamed for a violent crime committed against them."

“My heart hurts for all the women around the world who are suffering in silence, especially if you’re a Black woman who doesn’t appear as if she needs help," she added.

In late March, Lanez filed a motion in Los Angeles County Superior Court requesting a new trial, but prosecutors opposed that motion. Lanez’s attorneys have also suggested that he may appeal the verdict if a new trial is not granted.

If he is given the maximum sentence on each charge, served consecutively, Lanez could face up to 22 years and eight months in prison, in addition to the possibility of being deported to his native Canada after serving his time.

Megan concluded by sharing a message for women who have faced similar situations, saying, "For anyone who has survived violence, please know your feelings are valid. You matter. You are not at fault. You are important. You are loved. You are not defined by your trauma. You can continue to write beautiful, new chapters to your life story. Just because you are in a bad situation doesn’t mean you are a bad person. Our value doesn’t come from the opinions of other people. As long as you stand your ground and live in your truth, nobody can take your power.”

Photos courtesy Central City Productions

Hip-hop icon Missy Elliott and the women of one of the best-selling R&B groups of the '90s, SWV, will be among the honorees at this year's Black Music Honors.

The annual event, dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of urban music, will launch its producer, Central City Productions, Stellar Network television channel with its eighth edition, and there will be plenty of star power to shed light on the endeavor.

In addition to Elliott, who has won five Grammy Awards and sold over 30 million records, and SWV, short for Sisters With Voices and consisting of Cheryl "Coko" Gamble, Tamara "Taj" Johnson-George, and Leanne "Lelee" Lyons, the event will also pay homage to disco superstar vocalist, songwriter, record producer, and all-around performer Evelyn "Champagne" King, widely-respected R&B crooner Jeffrey Osborne, and legendary gospel trailblazers The Hawkins Family.

Founder and Executive Producer Don Jackson expressed his excitement for the honorees in a statement, saying, "Black music is the heartbeat of our culture, and the honorees for this year's Black Music Honors represent the soul of American music. We pay homage to the musical innovators who have paved the way for future generations. Our tribute performances not only celebrate the honorees of yesterday but also showcase the influence and impact of their iconic sounds and styles on today's artists with a beautiful symbiosis of past and present."

LeToya Luckett, a founding member of Destiny's Child, and comedic actor DeRay Davis will co-host the event, which will be held on May 19 at Atlanta's Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

The televised special will premiere on the Stellar Network on June 3 and air in national broadcast syndication from Saturday, June 10, to Sunday, July 2, in tribute to Black Music Month. The show will also air on Bounce TV on June 19.

Tickets for the live-taping event will be available for purchase on Friday at www.blackmusichonors.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Rock the Bells, the hip-hop platform founded by rap legend LL Cool J, announced on Monday a $15 million funding round anchored by a multi-year collaboration with media giant Paramount Global.

The deal includes a first-look agreement for unscripted and scripted content, feature films and co-branded merchandise opportunities.

Additionally, the two companies will collaborate on marketing support for Rock the Bells experiences and activations, including the opportunity to livestream the upcoming 2023 Rock The Bells Festival that will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop.

LL Cool J expressed his excitement about the partnership in a statement, saying that hip-hop is an art form that "continues to rise to higher heights," and that Rock the Bells is at the forefront of bridging generations.

"I'm excited about all the amazing things we have planned for the community, fans, and brands! This is just the beginning," he added.

Founded in 2018 by LL Cool J, Rock the Bells has become a prominent platform for celebrating and preserving hip-hop culture. With a focus on the art form and its icons, Rock the Bells has gained a loyal following and attracted major brands as partners.

The partnership with Paramount Global is expected to open up new opportunities for Rock the Bells to showcase hip-hop culture and its icons while continuing to honor its legacy.

"Paramount is thrilled to expand our deep relationship with LL COOL J with our investment in Rock The Bells," said Bruce Gillmer, President of Music, Music Talent, Programming & Events at Paramount. "We look forward to working with him to shine a spotlight on Hip-Hop culture and icons through music, events, and diverse content."

Other companies that participated in the Series B funding round, a type of investment round where a company seeks to raise capital to scale and expand its business operations, were Raine Ventures and Irving Azoff of Iconic Artists Group, with participation from Amex Ventures, Wildcat Capital Management and Capstar Ventures. The company also received additional investment from ASK Capital, North Island (Glenn Hutchins), AME Cloud Ventures and XO Capital.