Showing posts with label music. Show all posts
Showing posts with label music. Show all posts

Monday, July 1, 2024

Usher's Legacy Takes Center Stage at BET Awards

Photo By Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET 

The 2024 BET Awards celebrated Black excellence Sunday night, with a lineup of high-energy performances and a moving tribute to Usher, recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Hosted by Taraji P. Henson at the Peacock Theatre, the event opened with an electrifying performance by Megan Thee Stallion, who emerged from an egg in a nod to her latest album artwork. She ignited the night with "Hiss," followed by "Boa" and "Where Them Girls At."

Drake led the nominations with seven, including album of the year for "For All The Dogs (Scary Hours Edition)." Nicki Minaj followed closely with six, including album of the year for "Pink Friday 2."

Usher's tribute was a standout moment. Introduced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Usher watched as a parade of artists honored his career. Childish Gambino opened with "U Don't Have to Call," followed by Keke Palmer's rendition of "U Make Me Wanna." Summer Walker, Coco Jones, Marsha Ambrosius, Chlöe, and Tinashe contributed with performances of Usher's hits.

L.A. Reid and Babyface, co-founders of Usher's label LaFace Records, presented the award. Overcoming technical difficulties during his acceptance speech, Usher expressed gratitude and humor about his journey and those who supported him, including Jermaine Dupri.

Lauryn Hill revisited tracks from her groundbreaking album "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill," bringing out her son YG Marley for "Survival" and "Praise Jah in the Moonlight." Hill closed her set with Fugees member Wyclef Jean performing "Fu-Gee-La."

The diverse lineup included Ice Spice previewing her upcoming album "Y2K," GloRilla descending from the ceiling for "Yeah Glo!" and "TGIF," and Tyla performing "Jump" with Skillibeng and Gunna.

Victoria Monét, who won video of the year for "On My Mama," performed her hits, while Sexy Redd, Tanner Adell, Doechii, and Shaboozey showcased their talents.

Usher and Victoria Monét emerged as the night's biggest winners. Usher received the Lifetime Achievement Award and best male R&B/pop artist. Monét won video of the year and captivated the audience with her performances.

For a complete list of winners click here. 
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Sunday, June 30, 2024

Kanye West in Moscow: Concert Rumors Swirl, Putin Meeting Speculated

Kanye West arrived in Moscow today, fueling rumors of a potential concert and a meeting with President Vladimir Putin. The rapper's visit coincides with the birthday of Gosha Rubchinskiy, the new creative director of West's Yeezy brand.

Russian media outlets reported West's arrival, citing footage appearing to show him in the Moscow subway. While sources suggest the visit is primarily to celebrate Rubchinskiy's birthday, the possibility of a concert hasn't been definitively ruled out. There have been no official announcements from West's representatives or potential venues regarding a performance.
In December 2023, West appointed Rubchinskiy to lead the Yeezy design team. A statement from Yeezy at the time hailed the move as "a milestone in design history."
The 47-year-old rapper, known for past statements praising President Putin, was filmed walking with an entourage in Moscow, wearing baggy white trousers and a white hoodie. Videos circulating online show him shopping and interacting with fans.

West posted "Hello, Moscow" in Russian on VKontakte, the country's state-monitored social media platform, on Sunday. He was also seen in a Moscow underpass, a hotel lobby, the Gum mall, and Red Square.

Reports indicate West is staying at the Four Seasons Hotel near the Kremlin, where the Presidential Suite reportedly costs around £10,000 ($12,450 USD) per night.

West's visit to Russia has sparked controversy, as most Western celebrities have distanced themselves from the country following its invasion of Ukraine. However, West, who has faced criticism for various controversial statements and actions, remains an exception. His past praise for Putin raises questions about the nature of his visit and potential interactions with Russian officials.

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Friday, June 28, 2024

Watch: Sisters With Voices Deliver Soul-Stirring Tiny Desk Set

Screengrab: YouTube
In a fitting conclusion to NPR's Black Music Month celebration, the iconic R&B group SWV delivered a captivating Tiny Desk concert. The trio, known for their harmonious vocals and enduring hits, performed at NPR's headquarters, showcasing their timeless appeal and musical prowess.

Formed in New York City, Sisters With Voices (SWV) rose to fame in the 1990s alongside popular girl groups like En Vogue, TLC and Xscape. Their unique blend of R&B, new jack swing, and hip-hop soul earned them multiple platinum records and a dedicated fanbase that remains strong today.

The Tiny Desk setlist was a nostalgic journey through SWV's biggest hits, starting with the crowd-pleasing "I'm So Into You." The audience's enthusiasm was evident, with many singing along even after the song ended. Other fan favorites like "Right Here," "You're the One," and their number-one hit "Weak" further showcased their musical prowess and enduring appeal.

Before performing "You're the One," Lelee Lyons reflected on the group's groundbreaking approach to music in the '90s, noting their willingness to push boundaries. This served as a reminder of SWV's significant impact on the music industry and their continued influence.

SWV is currently co-headlining the Queens of R&B Tour with fellow '90s hitmakers Xscape. The tour, which kicked off with a sold-out show in Concord, California, features a mix of solo and collaborative performances, offering fans a nostalgic and exciting concert experience.

Watch the entire performance below.



SET LIST
"I'm So Into You"
"Right Here (Human Nature Radio Mix)"
"You're the One"
"You're Always on My Mind"
"Rain"
"Weak"
"Anything (Old Skool Radio Version)"
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Jewel Brown, Blues and Jazz Legend, Succumbs to Cancer at 86

Jewel Brown, the celebrated jazz singer from Houston who gained fame performing with Louis Armstrong,has died at age 86, her publicist confirmed Wednesday.

Born and raised in Houston's Third Ward, Brown was one of six children. She knew she wanted to sing from an early age, participating in local talent shows and earning her way to a regular gig in Galveston while still a teenager. Her talent soon led to recording singles for Liberty Records in the early 1960s, and she was drawn to Los Angeles to sing with keyboardist Earl Grant's band.

In 1961, while Louis Armstrong was touring in Sierra Leone with his All Stars, his longtime singer Velma Middleton died suddenly. Armstrong offered Brown the opportunity to take Middleton's place. This led to a nearly decade-long collaboration, with the two touring, recording, and performing together until Armstrong's retirement in 1969.




"He was the most fantastic person I've worked with my entire life," Brown said of Armstrong in a 2015 interview with the Houston Chronicle. "It was just a gift from heaven to be able to work with him."

Brown's career began at the tender age of 12, when she performed professionally for the first time at the Manhattan Club in Galveston, Texas. She later turned down an opportunity to tour Europe with Lionel Hampton's band to stay in school. Before joining Armstrong, she headlined at Jack Ruby's nightclub in Dallas, a period she rarely discussed in interviews.

Despite her success, Brown eventually chose to return to Houston in 1969 to care for her parents.
"Baby, I grew up on it all," she told the Houston Chronicle. "I've done country and western, ballads, torch songs, blues, and jazz. They call mea bluesy jazz singer and a jazzy blues singer. Give a song to me. If it's good, I'll do it."

After parting ways with Armstrong, Brown continued to sing but focused on performing locally. Health issues, including scoliosis, osteoporosis, and partial sight loss in one eye, limited her later career, but she remained active in the Houston music scene. In 2007, she was inducted into the Blues Smithsonian Hall of Fame, and in 2015, she was recognized by Congress for her contributions to the arts.

During her hiatus from performing, Brown managed a barbershop with her brother, sold insurance, and worked as a tailor. She eventually returned to performing locally and made a significant comeback, performing at events like the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and Satchmo Fest.
In recent years, Brown recorded for Dynaflow Records in Austin. She had recently been treated for colon cancer before her death.

Brown’s family expressed their gratitude in a statement sent to ABC13: "It is a special but difficult time for us. We appreciate all the love, the calls, concerns, and acknowledgements that all of you have expressed. We know how much Jewel was loved by many across the globe, in Texas, in Houston, and especially her Third Ward community. We thank you all!"
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Wednesday, June 26, 2024

Watch: Flo Milli Debuts New 'Never Lose Me' Verse in Soulful Tiny Desk Set

Screengrab: YouTube
Known for her sharp lyrics and distinctive style, rapper Flo Milli took her talents to NPR's Tiny Desk concert series recently, marking her first performance with a full band. The set, released earlier today, is part of NPR's Black Music Month celebration showcasing the talent and diversity of Black women in music.

The rising star from Mobile, Alabama, opened with an energetic medley of "Conceited" and "Bed Time," setting the stage for an engaging performance. Backed by Atlanta's Band of Brothers and her backing vocalists, the Floettes, Milli showcased her versatility, transitioning smoothly into a soulful rendition of her breakout hit "Beef FloMix." The song, a fan favorite from her 2020 debut mixtape "Ho, Why Is You Here?", proved its enduring appeal in this new arrangement.

The highlight of the set came at the end, when Milli and her band switched to acoustic instruments for a stripped-down version of her single "Never Lose Me." In a special treat for the audience, she debuted a brand new verse exclusive to the Tiny Desk performance.

Milli's Tiny Desk appearance is a significant milestone in her career, which has been on a steady rise since the release of "Ho, Why Is You Here?" She followed up her debut with "You Still Here, Ho?" in 2022 and "Fine Ho, Stay" in 2023, earning a spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and critical acclaim, including recognition from Rolling Stone as "one of the most fun rappers alive."

This Tiny Desk concert, a celebrated platform for showcasing musical talent, underscores Flo Milli's growing influence in the music industry.

Watch the full performance below.

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Monday, June 24, 2024

Will Smith's Redemption Song: Hip-Hop Icon Returns to the Mic at BET Awards Sunday

Will Smith, the Oscar-winning actor known for blockbuster films like "Men in Black" and chart-topping rap hits as one half of DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince, is set to make a musical comeback. Smith will perform new material at the 2024 BET Awards, marking his first major musical appearance in several years.

Smith first rose to fame with DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince, known for lighthearted hits like "Summertime" and "Parents Just Don't Understand," which earned them a Grammy Award for best rap performance. His transition to acting proved equally successful, with iconic roles in "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" and "Ali," earning him critical acclaim and box-office success.

Recently, Smith contributed "Light Em Up," a collaboration with reggae artist Sean Paul, to the "Bad Boys for Life" soundtrack. The track, released in early 2024, marks his first new music in nearly half a decade.

Smith's career has not been without controversy. His 2022 Oscars incident, in which he slapped comedian Chris Rock onstage, sparked a media firestorm and led to a temporary break from the spotlight. His return to the BET Awards stage signifies a new chapter, where he aims to reconnect with audiences through his music.

Connie Orlando, BET's executive vice president of specials, music programming and music strategy, said, "From his start as a rapper to 'The Fresh Prince' to being a box-office king, we are honored to welcome him back to grace the BET Awards stage."

The 2024 BET Awards will also feature performances from GloRilla, Ice Spice, Latto, Ms. Lauryn Hill and YG Marley, Muni Long, Sexyy Red, Shaboozey, Tyla and Victoria Monét. Usher will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Taraji P. Henson will host the event for the third time.

The BET Awards will air live on Sunday, June 30, at 8 p.m. Eastern and Pacific times on BET.

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Sunday, June 23, 2024

Ambush Claims Life of Jacksonville Rapper Julio Foolio at Tampa Hotel

Charles Jones, also known as Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio. (YouTube)
Florida rapper Julio Foolio was fatally shot early Sunday while celebrating his 26th birthday.

Julio Foolio, whose real name was Charles Jones, had told his 1 million Instagram followers he had "the best birthday ever," before the tragedy.

Jones had been hosting a pool party at a rented Airbnb in the Tampa area Saturday afternoon. The event grew so large that police responded, shutting it down and forcing the guests to leave. Jones and others later moved to a nearby Holiday Inn.

At approximately 4:40 a.m., gunfire erupted in the hotel's parking lot, killing Jones and wounding three other people, according to the Tampa Police Department. The injured victims are in stable condition. The medical examiner's office has not yet confirmed Jones' identity.

Jones' attorney, Lewis Fuso, described the incident as an ambush. "Mr. Jones was reportedly ambushed in the hotel's parking lot," Fuso said in a statement.

Jones was known for his association with the Jacksonville-based gang KTA and had survived previous attempts on his life, including a 2021 shooting in Jacksonville, after which he taunted his attackers on Instagram.

The investigation is ongoing, with Tampa police reviewing surveillance footage from the hotel. No suspects have been arrested as of Sunday afternoon.

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Thursday, June 20, 2024

Rapper Travis Scott Arrested in Miami for Yacht Altercation, Disorderly Intoxication

Miami-Dade Corrections & Rehabilitation Department 
Travis Scott was arrested early Thursday on suspicion of disorderly intoxication and trespassing after an altercation on a boat.

The rapper, whose real name is Jacques Bermon Webster, was detained by police at Miami Beach Marina at around 1:45 a.m., according to official records.

The Miami Beach Police Department reported that officers were called to the marina following reports of people fighting on a yacht. When they arrived, they found the 33-year-old artist shouting at people on the vessel.

Officers stated that they could "sense a strong smell of alcohol" on Scott’s breath when they approached him. After instructing him to leave the dock, Scott complied but continued to shout obscenities at the occupants of the yacht while walking backwards.

Minutes later, Scott returned to the area and attempted to board the yacht again. When officers confronted him, he allegedly disregarded their commands and became "erratic," disturbing local residents.

Following his arrest, Scott admitted to having consumed alcohol, reportedly telling officers, "It's Miami." He was booked into Miami-Dade County Jail at 4:35 a.m. and later released on a $650 bond at 8 a.m., according to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.

The rapper took to X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, after his release, simply posting, "Lol."

Scott, a 10-time Grammy Award nominee, is one of the biggest names in hip-hop. He was previously in a relationship with Kylie Jenner, with whom he shares two children.

His European tour is set to start in the Netherlands on June 28, with upcoming shows in London and Manchester.

In 2021, Scott faced widespread scrutiny after 10 fans died in a crowd surge at his Astroworld festival in Houston, Texas. While he did not face criminal charges over the deaths, he remains involved in civil cases alleging negligence by the festival organizers.
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Tuesday, June 18, 2024

rake Shatters Records, Hits 100 Billion Spotify Streams Amidst Lamar Feud

Drake has made history as the first artist to surpass 100 billion streams on Spotify, solidifying his position as a dominant force in the music industry. The milestone comes during a highly publicized feud with Kendrick Lamar, showcasing Drake's ability to maintain his popularity amid controversy.

The feud ignited when Lamar targeted Drake on Future and Metro Boomin's track "Like That." Drake responded with diss tracks, including "Family Matters" and "The Heart Part 6," along with collaborations like "U My Everything" with Sexyy Red. "Family Matters" alone garnered 75 million streams.

Lamar retaliated with tracks like "Meet The Grahams" and "Not Like Us," intensifying the rivalry. Drake's achievement was confirmed by Chart Data and verified by KWORB, a platform that tracks streams and rankings across various music services.
With 78.1 million monthly listeners, Drake surpasses Bad Bunny (78.5 billion) and Eminem (46.8 billion) in total Spotify streams.
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Saturday, June 15, 2024

Angela Bofill, Renowned Singer of 'This Time I'll Be Sweeter,' Dies at 70

Angela Bofill, the acclaimed R&B and jazz singer known for hits like "This Time I'll Be Sweeter" and "I Try," died Thursday morning at her daughter's home in Vallejo, California. She was 70.

News of her passing was shared on her personal Facebook account in two separate posts.

"On behalf of my dear friend Angie, I am saddened to announce her passing on the morning of June 13," read the first post. It noted that her funeral will be held at St. Dominick's Church in California on June 28 at 1 p.m.



A follow-up post added, "Just to clear up the confusion. On behalf of Shauna Bofill and her husband, Chris Portuguese, we are saddened but must report that Angela's passing yesterday is indeed true. We thank Melba Moore and Maysa for their early condolences. Thanks for your many posts."

The messages were signed by her friend and manager, Rich Engel.
Bofill, born Angela Tomasa Bofill on May 2, 1954, in the Brooklyn area of New York City to a Cuban father and a Puerto Rican mother, began her professional career in her teens, recording her first studio album, "Angie," in 1978. The album included the chart single "This Time I'll Be Sweeter" and the jazz composition "Under the Moon and Over the Sky." Her second album, "Angel of the Night," released less than a year later, outperformed its predecessor and included hits like "I Try."

Raised in The Bronx, she grew up listening to Latin music and was also inspired by African-American performers. During her childhood, weekends were spent studying classical music and singing in New York City's All City Chorus, which featured the best singers from high schools across the five boroughs.

She attended Hunter College High School, graduating in 1972, and later studied at the Manhattan School of Music, earning a Bachelor of Music degree in 1976.
Bofill faced significant health challenges due to two strokes in 2006 and 2007. She took a five-year hiatus from performing to concentrate on her recovery, making a triumphant return to the stage in 2011.

In a December 2020 interview with Essence magazine, Bofill laughed off rumors of her death that had circulated online months earlier. "Friends calling up, ‘Oh my God, am I talking to the ghost of Angela Bofill?’ Thank God it’s not true," she said.

Reflecting on the tributes that poured in during that time, she expressed gratitude. "You always must welcome love," she said. "I figured, ‘They really like me!’ [I’m just] laughing at it, really. It’s better to have a sense of humor.”
“I feel happy performing again,” she told The Denver Post in 2011. “I need the crowd. It's in my blood to entertain. Any time a crowd comes to see me, I’m surprised. I don't sing anymore, yet people still come. Wow. Impressed.”

In the same interview, Engel recounted Bofill’s career during the 1970s and '80s, highlighting her exceptional vocal range: "She had a rare voice. She could hit low notes and could hit high C. Her pitch was perfect.”

Despite complications from her strokes, Bofill maintained a positive outlook. “But my voice no sing. I'd rather not sing. Awful. It cracks me up! Funny! I laugh about it. But very grateful — still living. Never take things for granted,” she said.

Throughout her career, Bofill released numerous albums and hit singles, including "Something About You," "I'm on Your Side," "Let Me Be the One," and "I Just Wanna Stop." She was one of the first Latina singers to find success in the R&B and jazz markets.

In 2023, Bofill was inducted into the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame, a testament to her enduring influence and contribution to music.
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Friday, June 14, 2024

Timbaland Inducted into Songwriters Hall of Fame, SZA Honored with Starlight Award

The 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony Thursday night was a celebration of musical legends and contemporary hitmakers, with Grammy Award-winning producer and songwriter Timbaland and R&B sensation SZA taking center stage.

Timbaland was honored for his decades-long influence on hip-hop and R&B. The Virginia native's extensive catalog includes chart-topping hits like Missy Elliott's "Get Ur Freak On," Jay-Z's "Big Pimpin'" and Justin Timberlake's "Cry Me a River."


Elliott introduced Timbaland, praising his transformative influence on the music industry.

During his acceptance speech, Timbaland acknowledged his late collaborator and friend Aaliyah, stating, "I want to thank baby girl, rest in peace, I hope you're watching." His tribute was followed by a medley of his greatest hits.

SZA was awarded the Hal David Starlight Award, recognizing young songwriters with significant impact. In her acceptance speech, she emphasized the personal significance of songwriting, stating, "Writing is where I felt like a person, that I had value." Receiving the Hal David Starlight Award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame, she added, "validates my entire career."
The evening also featured the induction of alternative rock icons R.E.M., with all four original members reuniting for a rare performance of their hit "Losing My Religion." Nashville songwriter Hillary Lindsey and Steely Dan co-founder Donald Fagen were also inducted, with Fagen paying tribute to his late partner Walter Becker. Jason Isbell performed a cover of R.E.M.'s "It's the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)."
"Footloose" and "Fame" lyricist Dean Pitchford was also inducted, with the Bacon Brothers and Denise Williams performing his iconic hits. The ceremony culminated with a tribute to Diane Warren, who received the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award, and a performance celebrating the 40th anniversary of her hit song "Rhythm of the Night."
    2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Inductees:
    • Timothy "Timbaland" Mosley
    • Hillary Lindsey
    • R.E.M. (Bill Berry, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, Michael Stipe)
    • Steely Dan (Donald Fagen)
    • Dean Pitchford

    Special Award Recipients:

    • SZA (Hal David Starlight Award)
    • Diane Warren (Johnny Mercer Award)
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Thursday, June 13, 2024

WATCH: Jay-Z's Surprise Performance Steals the Show at Brady's Patriots HOF Ceremony

Tom Brady's New England Patriots Hall of Fame induction ceremony received an unexpected jolt of star power Wednesday night when Jay-Z took the stage for an electrifying performance.
In front of 60,000 fans at Gillette Stadium, Jay-Z opened the ceremony with "Public Service Announcement (Interlude)," the song synonymous with Brady's entrance onto the field during his Patriots career. The six-time Super Bowl champion quarterback, who played 20 seasons in New England, was visibly moved by the tribute.
The crowd, which included former teammates, coaches, and Patriots owner Robert Kraft, roared as Jay-Z raised his hand and declared, "Put one hand in the air for the GOAT, Mr. Tom Brady, tonight!"

Brady, who retired after the 2021 season, expressed his gratitude to the fans, his former teammates, and coaches, and called Jay-Z's performance a "special moment."
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Tuesday, June 11, 2024

Juvenile's Iconic Anthem Celebrated with 'Back That Azz Up Day' in New Orleans, Tour to Follow

The 25th anniversary of Juvenile’s iconic hit "Back That Azz Up" will be celebrated with a major North American tour and a special honor from his hometown of New Orleans.

On Tuesday, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell proclaimed June 11 "Back That Azz Up Day" to honor the song's enduring impact on the city's musical heritage. The announcement coincides with the launch of the "Back That Azz Up 25th Anniversary Tour," which kicks off July 7 in New Orleans.
Juvenile, whose real name is Terius Gray, expressed his excitement about the tour and the proclamation. "It's amazing to see it still resonate with people today," Juvenile said. "And I can’t wait for the moment each night of the tour when the song drops."

The tour will make stops in major cities across the U.S., including New York, Chicago, Seattle, Los Angeles, and Atlanta, before concluding in New Orleans on New Year’s Eve. Tickets for the tour are available for pre-sale via Ticketmaster with the code CHORD, and general sales will begin on June 15 at 10 a.m. local time.
Cantrell's proclamation highlights the cultural significance of "Back That Azz Up," noting its influence on more than a billion listeners since its release in 1999. The song, a second single from Juvenile's quadruple-platinum album "400 Degreez," was produced by Mannie Fresh and features Lil Wayne. It has been a defining track in the bounce music genre and landed on Rolling Stone’s "Top 500 Songs of All Time" in 2021.

In addition to the tour, Juvenile has had a series of local successes over the past year. He collaborated with Urban South Brewery to create "Juvie Juice," a spiked iced tea and lemonade drink, and released a limited edition of "400 HOT Degreez CheeWeez," a popular New Orleans cheese curl. His 10-song set on NPR's Tiny Desk Concert, featuring performances with Mannie Fresh, Trombone Shorty, and Jon Batiste, has also been well-received.

Back That Azz Up 25th Anniversary Tour Dates:
07/07 – New Orleans, LA @ Essence/Donna Color Explosion
07/20 – San Francisco, CA @ Midway
07/27 – Oklahoma City, OK @ Criterion
08/03 – St. Louis, MO @ The Factory (Chesterfield)
08/09 – New York, NY @ Brooklyn Bowl
08/10 – Washington, DC @ Howard Theatre
08/11 – Harrisburg, PA @ Reverb
08/13 – Columbia, SC @ The Senate
08/14 – Birmingham, AL @ Iron City
08/15 – Memphis, TN @ Minglewood Hall
08/16 – Houston, TX @ White Oak Lawn
08/17 – Chicago, IL @ Radius
08/18 – Grand Rapids, MI @ 20 Monroe
08/22 – Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren
08/23 – Las Vegas, NV @ Brooklyn Bowl Vegas
08/30 – Myrtle Beach, SC @ House of Blues
08/31 – Asheville, NC @ Rabbit Rabbit
09/01 – Norfolk, VA @ The Norva
09/05 – Columbus, OH @ Temple Live
09/06 – Indianapolis, IN @ Murat Theater
09/07 – Detroit, MI @ The Fisher
09/19 – Sacramento, CA @ Ace of Spades
09/22 – Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
09/23 – Seattle, WA @ The Crocodile
09/24 – Vancouver, BC @ Commodore
09/25 – Edmonton, AB @ Midway Music Hall
09/27 – Louisville, KY @ Palace Theatre
09/28 – Huntsville, AL @ John Hunt Park
09/29 – Little Rock, AR @ The Hall
10/03 – Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave
10/04 – Waukee, IA @ Vibrant Music Hall
10/05 – Charleston, SC @ Firefly Distillery
10/06 – Fort Smith, AR @ Temple Live
10/08 – Wichita, KS @ Temple Live
10/10 – Denver, CO @ The Fillmore
10/12 – Reno, NV @ Grand Theatre at the Grand Sierra Resort
10/13 – Boise, ID @ Treefort Music Hall
10/16 – San Diego, CA @ House of Blues
10/17 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Novo
10/20 – Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues
10/31 – Oakland, CA @ Fox Theatre
11/09 – San Antonio, TX @ The Espee=
11/10 – Austin, TX @ Stubb’s
11/14 – St. Petersburg, FL @ Jannus Live
11/15 – Miami, FL @ Fillmore Miami Beach
11/20 – Atlanta, GA @ The Eastern
11/22 – Charlotte, NC @ The Fillmore
12/01 – Fort Worth, TX @ Tannahill’s Tavern & Music Hall
12/04 – Montclair, NJ @ Wellmont Theatre
12/05 – Philadelphia, PA @ The Fillmore
12/06 – Brooklyn, NY @ Kings Theatre
12/07 – New Haven, CT @ College Street Music Hall
12/08 – Boston, MA @ House of Blues
12/09 – Portland, ME @ State Theatre
12/10 – Montreal, QC @ Beanfield Theatre
12/11 – Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
12/12 – Rochester, NY @ Water Street Music Hall
12/14 – Cleveland, OH @ Temple Live
12/15 – Cincinnati, OH @ Bogarts
12/19 – Nashville, TN @ Marathon Music Works
12/20 – Chattanooga, TN @ The Signal
12/21 – Detroit, MI @ The Fillmore
12/31 – New Orleans, LA @ Saenger Theat
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Monday, June 10, 2024

High Tension in YSL Trial: Young Thug's Lawyer Held in Contempt

The racketeering trial against rapper Young Thug, whose real name is Jeffery Williams, took a dramatic turn on Monday when his attorney, Brian Steel, was held in contempt of court. This development stemmed from Steel's revelation of a private meeting allegedly held between Judge Ural Glanville, prosecutors, and key witness Kenneth Copeland.

The situation unfolded when Steel informed the court of his knowledge of the unauthorized conversation. Judge Glanville, visibly upset, demanded to know how Steel obtained this information. Refusing to disclose his source, Steel argued that the meeting violated protocol.

"You're not supposed to have communication with a sworn witness," Steel declared, referencing the potential ethical concerns surrounding such an ex parte communication.

The tense exchange escalated when Judge Glanville threatened Steel with contempt if he didn't reveal his source. Despite the heated exchange, Steel wasn't immediately removed from the courtroom. However, the judge emphasized his seriousness, giving Steel a deadline to reveal his source or face further consequences. The back-and-forth continued, with Steel maintaining his stance and Judge Glanville demanding answers before the lawyer was removed from the courtroom.

Lead prosecutor Adriane Love requested that Steel be allowed to return for the remainder of the day's proceedings. The judge ultimately relented, allowing Steel back into the courtroom but reiterating that the contempt charge remained.

This incident adds complexity to the already lengthy YSL trial. Jury selection began in January 2023, a process that took ten months. Since opening statements in late November, the trial has faced repeated delays and is expected to continue into next year.

Prosecutors allege Young Thug is the leader of "Young Slime Life," a criminal street gang responsible for violent crimes. The defense maintains YSL is simply a record label.

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Megan Thee Stallion Unveils Striking New Art After AI Fiasco

The alternate cover for Megan Thee Statllion's upcoming eponymously named album.
Grammy-winning rapper Megan Thee Stallion sparked renewed interest in her upcoming album "Megan" by unveiling striking new artwork over the weekend.

The visuals depict her shedding her skin like a serpent, symbolizing themes of transformation and renewal, offering a fresh perspective on her musical journey. This follows a previous artwork reveal showing her emerging from a butterfly chrysalis, which garnered mixed reactions from fans online.

Set for release on June 28 via her independent label, Hot Girl Productions, "Megan" is a significant milestone for the 29-year-old Houston native, marking her first full-length studio album under her own banner.

However, amid the excitement, Megan faced online harassment after a sex tape reportedly produced by AI went viral. Fans rallied behind her with the hashtag “WELOVEYOUMEGAN,” expressing solidarity and outrage at the attack.

In response, Megan addressed her assailants in a defiant tweet, condemning their actions and asserting her resilience. She wrote, "It’s really sick how y’all go out of the way to hurt me when you see me winning. Y’all going too far, Fake a$$ sh##. Just know today was your last day playing with me and I mean it."

The emotional toll of the cyber attack was evident during her recent performance at Tampa's Amalie Arena, where footage showed her visibly distraught while performing her hit track "Cobra."

This latest ordeal adds to the challenges Megan has faced, including public scrutiny following the 2020 Tory Lanez shooting incident.

The anticipation for "Megan" has been steadily building, fueled by snake-themed singles like "Cobra," "Hiss," and the chart-topping "Boa." Collaborations with artists like Reneé Rapp for the upcoming "Mean Girls" movie and a remix featuring Cardi B have also contributed to the buzz surrounding the album.

In a recent interview with L'Officiel magazine, Megan discussed the album's thematic underpinnings, citing her fascination with snakes as symbols of renewal and spirituality. "We started with the snake because...snakes represent rebirth, spirituality," she explained. "I'm not really a person that's like, Oh my God, sunshine and just super bubbly, happy. I like darker things. I like things that are a little scary. I like things that are unique."

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Friday, June 7, 2024

Clean Break: Howard U. Revokes Combs' Degree, Disbands Scholarship, Returns $1 Million

Photo Credit: Facebook/Diddy
In a decisive move, the Howard University Board of Trustees unanimously voted to accept the return of Sean Combs' honorary degree awarded in 2014. This action effectively revokes all associated honors and removes his name from the university's listing of honorary degree recipients.

A statement released by a Howard University spokesperson following a board meeting on Friday cited "behavior, as captured in a recently released video," as fundamentally incompatible with the university's core values. The statement did not specify the nature of the video but emphasized the university's unwavering opposition to interpersonal violence.
Combs, also known as Diddy, reportedly faced recent allegations and a lawsuit concerning assault. These developments likely influenced the board's decision.

The university's actions extend beyond the honorary degree. The board also directed the administration to terminate a 2016 gift agreement with Combs, disband the scholarship program established in his name, and return his $1 million contribution.

An additional $1 million pledge agreement from the Sean Combs Foundation in 2023 was also terminated as no payments towards it had been received.

The Howard University Board of Trustees and administration declined further comment on the matter.
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Eminem's 'Houdini' Makes Big Splash, But Lamar's Record Holds Strong

Despite facing initial criticism from some reviewers, Eminem's new single "Houdini" has become a streaming phenomenon, rocketing to the top of the charts. Released last Friday, "Houdini" is not only Eminem's fastest-selling single in over two decades, but it's also projected to secure a spot in the top two of the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

This success comes after some early negative reviews. However, listeners have clearly embraced the track, amassing a massive 56.7 million streams on Spotify within its first week. This makes it the second-highest debut for a rap song on the platform, just behind Kendrick Lamar's "Not Like Us."

The accompanying music video garnered 51 million views on YouTube during its opening week, further solidifying "Houdini" as a major success.

"Houdini" serves as the lead single for Eminem's upcoming album, "The Death of Slim Shady," slated for release later this summer.

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Thursday, June 6, 2024

50 Cent Defends Boebert Photo, Trump Comments Also Go Viral

Photo Credit: X/50cent
50 Cent defended his viral photos with Rep. Lauren Boebert in a tweet Wednesday night, stating: "Wait, wait, guys I took pictures with everyone and all you seem to care about is Lauren 🤷🏽‍♂️what did she do in a dark theater that hasn’t been done, my God!"

The rapper's reference to the "dark theater" likely pertains to Boebert being removed from a production of "Beetlejuice" in September; video footage showed her vaping, dancing, taking photos and groping her male date during the performance.

50 Cent and Boebert had both tweeted pictures of the two posing together following his visit to Capitol Hill, which were viewed millions of times. Boebert tweeted she would "still love you if you flipped burgers at Burger King @50Cent, I used to do that myself!"

The rapper also tweeted pictures of himself with several other representatives last night, including Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.), former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio) and Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.)—though none garnered as many likes and reposts as his picture with Boebert.

50 Cent, who owns the liquor company Sire Spirits (which sells Branson Cognac and Le Chemin du Roi champagne), made a surprise visit to Capitol Hill on Wednesday alongside civil rights attorney Ben Crump to advocate for more Black representation in the liquor industry. At a press conference following his visit, he stated he met with leaders of both parties to discuss "economic opportunities for everybody, and it’s really exciting. The response I got makes me feel like there are bright days ahead of us."

Addressing a reporter's question about the significance of Black men in the upcoming election cycle, 50 Cent commented on the trend of Black men "identifying with Trump" in the 2024 presidential election "because they got RICO charges." The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations law makes it illegal to engage in racketeering activity and was passed to combat organized crime. Trump and 18 co-defendants were charged in August under the RICO law for their efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. 50 Cent mentioned he has not yet decided who he will vote for in the presidential election.

In 2020, the rapper appeared to endorse Trump in a tweet criticizing President Joe Biden’s tax plans, stating: "I don’t care Trump doesn’t like black people." However, less than a week later, he tweeted: "F— Donald Trump, I never liked him." He previously endorsed Hillary Clinton in 2016.

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Tuesday, June 4, 2024

Diddy Out, Employees In: Revolt Announces Employee Ownership Model

Photo Credit: Instagram/revoltv
Revolt, the media company founded by Sean "Diddy" Combs, announced a new ownership structure Tuesday. The company revealed that its largest shareholder group is now composed of its employees.

In a historic shift, Combs' shares have been fully redeemed and retired, making employees the predominant stakeholders. 

"This is something we've been looking to do, waiting to do, believing that the people who give this company their blood, sweat, and tears should have some sort of upside opportunity if and when we win," said Detavio Samuels, CEO of Revolt, in an interview with Variety. He added, "All the data suggests that companies with incentive pools for their employees outperform the rest. They perform better financially, they perform better with company morale and culture, and they perform better as it relates to retention."


Revolt celebrated the transition on social media, posting, "It's a new day! REVOLT is honored and proud to announce that, in an unprecedented and historic move in the Black media space, our newly projected largest shareholder group are REVOLT's employees. Our mission to become the largest media company powered by creators and fueled by the culture continues. "

Founded by Combs over a decade ago, Revolt was initially a music industry-focused cable channel aimed at boosting Black representation on television. It has since grown into a significant player in digital media, known for popular video podcasts such as "Drink Champs," "The Jason Lee Show," and "Caresha Please."

Combs' decision to step down comes after a wave of legal challenges, including a lawsuit filed in November by his former girlfriend, singer Cassie, accusing him of years of physical and sexual abuse. Although the parties quickly settled the lawsuit, it spurred additional accusations from other women.

The fallout from these allegations has been substantial for Combs, 54. Besides relinquishing his position at Revolt, he sold his stake in a liquor brand for around $200 million and saw the end of a partnership with a New York charter school network he helped expand.

Samuels declined to disclose the amount paid for Combs' stake. With Combs out, Revolt operates without a majority owner. A representative for Combs did not immediately respond to a request for comment.


Revolt has distanced itself from Combs in recent months as legal issues and federal investigations into his conduct intensified. Despite the separation, the company has been impacted by the publicized allegations against its founder, including the release of hotel security footage by CNN showing Combs in a physical altercation with Cassie in 2016.
In response to recent developments, Revolt has provided access to individual and group therapists for employees. "Even before the lawsuits, Mr. Combs had little to no interaction with the team," said Samuels, who joined Revolt in 2020. He emphasized that the company's focus is on continuing its mission and supporting its staff through these changes.

Revolt, which has more than 110 full-time employees, continues to adapt to the digital age, with its business now largely driven by digital advertising and a significant presence on platforms like YouTube, where it has 2.8 million subscribers. The company also launched a podcast network in 2022, further diversifying its media offerings.
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