R&B singer Ne-Yo brought his smooth vocals and songwriting talents to NPR's Tiny Desk concert series on Friday.
Ne-Yo launched into a four-song medley of his hits, including "Because of You," "So Sick," and "Sexy Love," before surprising fans with a new song, "Two Million Secrets." Ne-Yo described the new track as a "personal reflection" on growth and redemption.
He further showcased his songwriting prowess with covers of songs he wrote for Rihanna ("Take a Bow"), Beyoncé ("Irreplaceable"), and Mario ("Let Me Love You").
The intimate concert concluded with Ne-Yo's signature anthem "Miss Independent."
Born Shaffer Chimere Smith, Ne-Yo is a Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter with multiple platinum-selling albums. He remains a force in R&B, both with his own music and as a sought-after songwriter.
In a surprising turn of events, J. Cole expressed regret over his recent diss track aimed at Kendrick Lamar during his performance at the Dreamville Festival in North Carolina.
During his set on Sunday, Cole reflected on his latest project, "Might Delete Later," and openly admitted to feeling remorse regarding his diss towards Kendrick Lamar.
Acknowledging his own misstep, Cole described it as "the most regrettable, misguided s—t," expressing a desire for reconciliation. This revelation follows a recent feud ignited by songs on both Lamar's and Cole's latest projects.
Cole placed the song last on his surprise new project "Might Delete Later," which dropped on April 5. On the track, he responded to Lamar's verse on Future and Metro Boomin's "Like That," where Lamar took shots at Drake and J. Cole for categorizing him as part of "the big three."
"I'm so proud of ['Might Delete Later'], except for one part," said Cole. "It's one part of that sh—t that makes me feel like, man, that's the lamest sh—t I did in my life, right? And I know this is not what a lot of people want to hear."
Continuing his reflection, Cole expressed feeling conflicted about publicly responding to Lamar's diss and the pressure to engage in the discourse it sparked. He admitted that releasing the diss track "spiritually felt bad" and disrupted his peace.
In a plea for forgiveness and reconciliation, Cole publicly addressed Lamar, acknowledging his greatness and expressing regret for his actions. He concluded by hoping to return to his true path and acknowledging the discomfort he felt over the past two days as a result of the feud.
Additionally, Cole announced his decision to remove "7 Minute Drill" from streaming services as a gesture of remorse for its content.
Detroit rapper Big Sean took the virtual stage for his debut performance at NPR's Tiny Desk concert series. In a 26-minute set uploaded to NPR Music's YouTube channel on Wednesday, he captivated viewers with a 14-song performance accompanied by a small string quartet.
Sporting a Beastie Boys shirt and a Detroit Tigers cap in tribute to the late J Dilla, Big Sean's Tiny Desk debut held special meaning. He left his cap on the set as a keepsake, a tradition among Tiny Desk performers. "This is something my kids can look back on, something my family can look back on to see where I was at in my career," he shared.
The rapper kicked off with "Memories," the opening track from his sophomore album "Hall of Fame." He then showcased hits like "One Man Can Change the World," his Grammy-winning collaboration with Kanye West and John Legend. Pausing between tracks, Big Sean acknowledged fellow Detroiters in the audience and even debuted a new song dedicated to his partner, Jhené Aiko, and their son Noah.
Reflecting on his rise to success, Big Sean expressed gratitude for his fans, highlighting his journey as a "blog-era mixtape rapper" who built a fanbase organically. "To make it out of there, it wasn't easy... It really made me who I am," he remarked, highlighting the resilience and determination that propelled his career.
SET LIST "Memories" "Nothing Is Stopping You" "Blessings" "Play No Games" "Light" "My Last" "Marvin & Chardonnay" "All Me" "Beware" "I Know" "Bounce Back" "One Man Can Change the World" "On Up" (unreleased?) "I Don't F*** With You"
Dr. Dre, the iconic rapper, producer, and entrepreneur, was awarded the 2,775th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame today. The ceremony took place in front of the Jimmy Kimmel Studios on Hollywood Boulevard.
Hosted by radio personality Big Boy, the event included speeches from fellow artists Eminem, Xzibit, 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg and music mogul Jimmy Iovine.
"I’d like to thank the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce for finally deciding I deserve to be in the company of Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, and 50 Cent. Who all got stars before me for some f—ing reason," remarked Dr. Dre, born Andre Romelle Young, to the crowd. "It’s all good, I’m finally here!"
Reflecting on his journey from Compton, Dr. Dre shared, "I never imagined a kid from Compton would stand here among my idols."
As a nine-time Grammy winner, co-founder of Death Row Records, and the visionary behind Aftermath Entertainment and Beats Electronics, Dr. Dre solidified his place in hip-hop history. His iconic 1992 solo album "The Chronic" achieved triple-platinum status.
"I want to thank all my fans for supporting me from day one. We've grown up together, and at 60, I appreciate you still rocking with me," Dr. Dre said. "And trust me, I'm far from done. There's much more to come."
Longtime collaborator Snoop Dogg praised Dr. Dre's influence: "There would be no Snoop without Dre. Together, we revolutionized the game, and our music has left an indelible mark on the world."
Dr. Dre's star is located on 6840 Hollywood Boulevard, adjacent to the star of his close friend, Snoop Dogg.
Usher has dropped a star-studded new trailer for his Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show, igniting intrigue with a playful "Where's Usher?" theme. The seven-minute film, reminiscent of "The Hangover," follows a comedic quest through Las Vegas, led by Ludacris, Lil Jon and Taraji P. Henson as they search for the missing R&B icon.
Their journey takes them past iconic landmarks like Caesars Palace, where they encounter celebrities including Anderson .Paak, J Balvin, Wesley Snipes and the Blue Man Group. A surprise appearance by Andre 3000 as "Zoltar 3000" fuels speculation about potential collaborations during the live performance.
The trailer concludes with Usher performing for a bridal party at the Caesars Palace Fountain, showcasing his signature moves and hits like "Climax," "Nice & Slow" and "Bad Girl." The clip ends with Snipes comedically channeling Omarion's iconic dance moves to "Standing Next to You."
Usher's halftime show promises to be a monumental celebration of his 30-year career. With over 80 million records sold and hits like "8701" and "Confessions," his impact on the music industry is significant.
Anticipation is further heightened by the release of his ninth studio album, "Coming Home," two days before the Super Bowl. Presented by Apple Music as part of a multi-year partnership with the NFL and Roc Nation, the halftime show is expected to be a major draw for music fans worldwide. Super Bowl LVIII airs live on CBS February 11th.
Cardi B will star in NYX Professional Makeup's upcoming Super Bowl commercial, airing during the second half of the February 12th game. The 30-second spot will feature Cardi B alongside other women, showcasing NYX's popular Duck Plump High Pigment Plumping Lip Gloss in a humorous and lighthearted manner.
A 15-second teaser released Thursday offers a glimpse of the commercial, featuring the rapper examining a tube of NYX gloss before applying it and uttering her signature phrase.
In conjunction with the ad, NYX is launching an exclusive "Cherry Spice" shade of the lip gloss, worn by Cardi B in the commercial. Priced at $13, the shade is available only on the cosmetics company's website.
This marks Cardi B's first-ever beauty partnership. The collaboration extends beyond the Super Bowl, with NYX launching the exclusive lip gloss shade and creating interactive social media experiences throughout the campaign.
Dave Chappelle has enlisted the legendary Morgan Freeman to narrate the trailer for his upcoming Netflix special, "The Dreamer," scheduled to premiere globally on New Year's Eve.
The Oscar winner sets the stage in the teaser, posing a compelling question to the audience: "What do you dream about? Not the dreams you have in your sleep: the ones you hold in your heart." Freeman's iconic voice invites viewers to peek into the essence of Chappelle's latest creation, encouraging them not to be intimidated by the audacity of their dreams but to find inspiration in them. He playfully notes, "What happens to a dream deferred? Lucky for Dave, he doesn't know."
Filmed at the historic Lincoln Theatre in Chappelle's hometown of Washington, D.C., "The Dreamer" follows the success of 2021's "The Closer" and marks Chappelle's seventh collaboration with Netflix. The teaser offers a tantalizing glimpse into the narrative style and comedic exploration that fans can expect from Chappelle's latest venture.
Emmy Award-winning director Stan Lathan, a longtime collaborator with Chappelle, returns to direct "The Dreamer," ensuring a seamless continuation of their creative partnership.
Chappelle's previous Netflix special, "The Closer," sparked controversy with its candid discussions on transgender issues, leading to a walkout by some Netflix staff members. Despite the uproar, Netflix stood by the Emmy-winning comic, and "The Dreamer" is poised to make its mark on the streaming service.
The Lincoln Theatre in Washington, D.C., serves as the picturesque backdrop for "The Dreamer," where Chappelle's comedic prowess takes center stage. Known for his Emmy-winning Netflix specials like "Sticks & Stones" and "Equanimity & The Bird Revelation," Chappelle has garnered five Emmy Awards and four Grammy Awards for his outstanding contributions to comedy.
Receiving the Pollstar Award for Comedy Tour of the Year in 2023, 2018, and 2014, Chappelle's influence in the entertainment industry is undeniable. In 2019, he received the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, further solidifying his status as a comedic icon.
To catch a sneak peek of what's in store, watch the teaser below:
In the realm of hip-hop, Scarface, also known as Facemob and Brad Jordan, has etched his legacy as one of the genre's most influential storytellers. Monday on NPR's Tiny Desk Concert, the legendary emcee and producer delivered a 30-minute set that stands as a testament to a rap career spanning decades, defined from his time as a seminal member of Houston's Geto Boys to his stellar solo journey.
Anticipation for Scarface's Tiny Desk appearance crackled after DJ Cuzzin B, the series' producer, declared on X (formerly Twitter) last week, "Just watched an edit of Scarface's Tiny Desk. Yeah.... it's the best hip-hop Tiny Desk we've ever put out. A new crown holder.... Monday." The hype proved prescient.
I just watched an edit of Scarface's Tiny Desk. Yeah.... it's the best hip-hop tiny desk we've ever put out. A new crown holder.... Monday.
From introducing his backup band to the final song, Scarface took the audience on an intimate lyrical and musical journey, raw and unflinchingly honest yet undeniably entertaining.
"I don't know if you want to call me the DJ or the conductor of the railroad but my name is Facemob. We came here to jam for y'all tonight, this morning, whenever the f—k it is," Scarface shares, setting the tone for an intimate and powerful performance.
Mike Dean, grabbing the mic, interjects with humor, questioning, “You were high?” Scarface responds affirmatively, "That's going to be the basis of all our f—ing songs, man. I swear," before launching into the rap star's signature tune, "On My Block." The performance is gritty, soulful, and captures the essence of what has made Scarface's hip-hop career special.
The Tiny Desk concert offered a rare glimpse of Scarface not just as a seasoned emcee but as a conductor, navigating through multiple eras of his extensive catalog. Classics like "Mary Jane," "Smile," "Fk Faces," and the bone-chilling "I Seen a Man Die" all made the setlist.
Days before the show, Scarface added a surprise element by bringing in Dean, elevating the performance with unmatched authenticity and shared stories. This dynamic collaboration underscored the profound impact Dean's production has had on Scarface's classics and Rap-A-Lot records.
Scarface's influence extends beyond the stage, as evidenced by his recent recognition alongside Rakim with the inaugural Hip-Hop Grandmaster Award from the Paid in Full Foundation. This accolade, coupled with substantial financial and healthcare support, reaffirms Scarface's place as a pivotal figure in hip-hop history. Watch the entire performance in the video below.
Set List: "On My Block" "Mary Jane" "Smile" "I Seen a Man Die" "F**k Faces" "Mind Playing Tricks on Me"
Musicians: Scarface: Lead vocals, guitar Mike Dean: Keys Steven "Spud" Howard: Vocals Takai "Cookie" Hicks: Vocals Peigh Jones: Vocals, guitar Corey "FunkaFingers" Stoot: Guitar Josh Henderson: Keys Jason "The Bishop" Allen: Keys Savar Martin: Drums Anthony "Antboogie" Nicholson: Bass, musical direction
Diddy has unveiled the official trailer for his forthcoming film, "Off the Grid," inspired by and soundtracked by his latest album, which offers a glimpse into a whirlwind R&B love story, with the central theme of escaping the complexities of life in favor of romantic seclusion, devoid of modern-day distractions.
In the lead role, rising talent Eva Apio, an Ugandan actress and supermodel, makes her acting debut in this significant project. Her selection came after a three-month casting process.
"Working with Eva was an incredible experience; her talent and energy brought my vision to life," said Diddy of the decision to cast Apio, in a statement announcing the trailer which is closely related to his album, "The Love Album: Off the Grid," and provides a visual and emotional extension of the project.
"Off the Grid" marks a pivotal moment in Diddy's career, representing his debut as a director and screenwriter. The film also marks his eighth acting role in a movie.
In 2021, Diddy founded Love Records, an all-R&B label dedicated to creating timeless R&B music in collaboration with the next generation of artists, producers, and songwriters. The label's first artist, Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Jozzy, released her album "Songs for Women, Free Game for Nxxxas" in February 2023, setting a high standard for the label.
"The Love Album: Off the Grid," was released in September 2023, receiving critical acclaim. The album features prominent artists such as Justin Bieber, Abel Tesfaye (formerly known as The Weeknd), Mary J. Blige, Summer Walker, H.E.R., Jazmine Sullivan, and more. "The Love Album" secured a place in the top 10 of Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, debuting at No. 19 on the Billboard 200 and reaching No. 2 on the Top R&B Albums chart.
The official release date for "Off the Grid" is yet to be announced. Watch the trailer below:
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.
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.
During the MTV Video Music Awards, Ben Affleck debuted a new Dunkin' Donuts commercial, where he teams up with rapper Ice Spice to create the "Ice Spice Munchkins Drink." In the ad, Affleck's attempts at freestyle rapping fall flat, leading to some amusing moments. The drink, described as "reminiscent of the texture of a cookies and cream shake," combines Dunkin's pumpkin-flavored donut holes with Frozen Dunkin' Coffee. Ice Spice, also known as Isis Naija Gaston, was nominated for four VMAs and won Best New Artist.
In anticipation of hip-hop's forthcoming 50th anniversary, Netflix is gearing up to pay tribute to the influential female legends who have played an essential role in the genre's evolution.
The network's four-part limited documentary, "Ladies First: A Story of Women in Hip-Hop," promises candid reflections from trailblazing artists like Queen Latifah and Da Brat, alongside an impressive array of other iconic female emcees.
The newly released official trailer from Netflix unveils the series' mission to recontextualize and elevate the irreplaceable contributions of women in hip-hop, placing them squarely at the core of the genre's history, from its inception to the present day. The documentary delves into the profound impact of the wider social, racial and political landscape that influenced these pioneering artists.
Queen Latifah, who released her debut album a mere decade after hip-hop's birth at the age of 19, asserts in the trailer, "We have come through a lot. We have stood back up, and we'll always keep standing back up. We will always be stronger together than we are apart."
The star-studded lineup of interviewees includes not only Da Brat and Queen Latifah but also other lauded artists such as Bahamadia, Coi Leray, Kash Doll, Latto, MC Lyte, Monie Love, Remy Ma, Rapsody, Roxanne Shante, Saweetie, Sha-Rock, Tierra Whack and Yo-Yo.
Produced by Culture House and executive produced by a team led by Dream Hampton, Troy Carter, Raeshem Nijhon, Carri Twigg, MC Lyte, Nicole Galovski, Justin Simien, and Jennifer Ryan, all four episodes of "Ladies First: A Story of Women in Hip-Hop" are set to premiere exclusively on Netflix on August 9.
Preview the compelling journey of these remarkable women in hip-hop by watching the full trailer below.
Trailblazers in the world of hip-hop, Cypress Hill, composed of B Real, Sen Dog, and producer DJ Muggs, shattered barriers with their psychedelic sound, transcending regional boundaries and fearlessly tackling mental health issues long before they gained mainstream recognition.
As the first Latino hip-hop group to achieve platinum and multi-platinum status, Cypress Hill also advocated for marijuana legalization when the concept was far from reality.
Recently, the group etched another milestone in its legacy by gracing the stage of NPR's acclaimed Tiny Desk series. Accompanied by touring members Eric Bobo, DJ Lord, and Money Mark from Beastie Boys fame, the band delivered five funky performances infused with the rare addition of a horn section.
During the performance, B Real reflected on the group's journey, stating, "Being here is an honor as we know that many greats have graced this stage. If someone had asked us 30-some-odd years ago when we started, 'Do you see yourself in a situation like this?' I think everyone would’ve said ‘hell no!’"
Cypress Hill's 1993 debut album "Black Sunday" achieved groundbreaking success, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, making it the first hip-hop album of the year to claim the top spot. The album has sold over four million copies in the United States. In celebration of its 30th anniversary, the group released a deluxe edition featuring remixes of its iconic tracks.
Recent releases include "Back In Black," featuring collaborations with Demrick ("Certified") and Dizzy Wright ("Bye Bye"). Additionally, the group offered fans an intimate glimpse into their career with the Showtime documentary, "Insane in the Brain."
Cypress Hill is currently on a world tour, scheduled to run until December.
Watch the entire performance below.
Tiny Desk Set List: "When the S*** Goes Down" "Hand On the Pump" "How I Could Just Kill a Man" "(Rap) Superstar" "Insane in the Brain"
A Bob Marley biopic is set to hit the big screen over 40 years after his passing, offering a captivating portrayal of the reggae icon's life and musical legacy. The highly-anticipated film, titled "Bob Marley: One Love," released its first trailer Thursday, providing a glimpse into the Jamaican singer-songwriter's extraordinary journey.
In the movie, Kingsley Ben-Adir takes on the role of the reggae legend himself, while Lashana Lynch portrays his wife, Rita. Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, the feature film delves into Marley's rise to fame alongside his band, The Wailers, as they captivated audiences with their powerful music.
The trailer also offers a glimpse into the aftermath of a 1976 assassination attempt on Marley, believed to be politically motivated. Despite the ordeal, Marley's unwavering spirit led him to return to the spotlight, headlining the iconic "One Love" peace concert in Kingston, Jamaica.
Marley, who succumbed to a rare form of cancer at the age of 36 in 1981, left an indelible mark on the music world with his soulful melodies and powerful messages of love and unity.
The biopic is a collaborative effort, with involvement from Marley's family. Ziggy Marley, the late singer's son, daughter Cedella and Rita serve as producers, alongside industry veterans Brad Pitt, Robert Teitel, Jeremy Kleiner and Dede Gardner.
The film aims to celebrate Marley's extraordinary life and his enduring musical legacy, inspiring generations with his powerful message. It provides audiences with an opportunity to discover the transformative journey behind his revolutionary music and his triumph over adversity.
During CinemaCon, Ziggy Marley, representing the film as a producer, expressed his excitement, stating, "People will deepen their connection to Bob and honor Bob in the right way."
"Bob Marley: One Love" is scheduled for release on January 12, 2024. Fans can catch a glimpse of the film's essence by watching the recently released trailer below.
NPR's celebration of Black Music Month culminated not in a bang, but in a symphony of soul, rhythm, blues, and rap, uniquely born in the vibrant streets of New Orleans.
Big Easy native Juvenile took the Tiny Desk stage by storm, supported by a full band that included fellow New Orleans music giants Trombone Shorty and Jon Batiste, along with the wizardry of Mannie Fresh, the legendary producer behind Cash Money Records' hits. Together, they orchestrated a Tiny Desk performance that defied all expectations.
As Juvenile shared insights and reflected on his recording history, he effortlessly traded laughs and verses, delivering his and the label's biggest hits. From "400 Degreez" to "Bling Bling" and even the Hot Boys classic "I Need a Hot Girl," Juvenile playfully reminded the audience of his presence in the iconic music video, despite not being featured on the track itself.
"Y'all don't even know, that's my favorite part right there," Juvenile chuckled, exchanging verses with the animated Mannie Fresh. "I ain't even on the song, but I'm in the video. That part resonates with me so much, especially when Turk jumps in. Now, I know Turk might have a bone to pick with me, but he's still my lil bro. Trust me, that's the absolute pinnacle of the song when he enters."
However, it was the grand finale that truly captivated the audience. With the assistance of a cellist and a violinist from the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Juvenile crafted a spellbinding rendition of his timeless anthem to the posterior, "Back That Azz Up."
To experience the full concert, watch the video above.
SET LIST "Intro (feat. Mannie Fresh)" "400 Degreez (feat. Mannie Fresh)" "Bling Bling (feat. Mannie Fresh)" "Ha" "Set It Off" "Slow Motion" "Rodeo (feat. The Amours)" "I Need A Hot Girl (feat. Mannie Fresh)" "Project Bitch (feat. Mannie Fresh)" "Back That Azz Up (feat. Mannie Fresh)"
MUSICIANS Juvenile: vocals Mannie Fresh: vocals, effects, keys Alvin Ford: music director/drums Josh Connelly: guitar DJ Raymond: bass Brandon Butler: keys BK Jackson: saxophone Trombone Shorty: trombone Kevin Woods: trumpet Jon Batiste: melodica Jakiya Ayanna: vocals Shaina Aisha: vocals Hannah Yim: violin Jake Fowler: cello
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.
Readers will also find insights into the current activities of the 2022 XXL Freshman Class, as well as stories covering hip-hop's affinity for golfing, the emergence of rookie artists and a compilation of the best A.I. hip-hop songs released to date.
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
— 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.
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.
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.
NPR Music celebrates Black Music Month this June with a lineup of brand-new Tiny Desk concerts that pay homage to the past, present and future of Black music.
Kicking off the series is renowned singer-songwriter Charlie Wilson, whose captivating NPR Music concert serves as a profound tribute to his extraordinary life and career.
Through a spellbinding performance, Wilson takes fans on a mesmerizing journey, seamlessly weaving together timeless hits and personal stories of triumph and resilience.
From his early days as a founding member of The Gap Band, where he achieved fame in the '70s and '80s with their iconic old-school funk and R&B sound, to his influential collaborations with hip-hop icons, Wilson's musical impact transcends generations.
Earning the moniker "Uncle Charlie" in the hip-hop community, he has been embraced by artists such as Snoop Dogg, Kanye West, and Tyler The Creator, who recognize his unparalleled talent.
However, Wilson's path has not been without challenges.
In a candid and heartfelt moment, he opens up about his battle with addiction, revealing the depths of his past and the triumph of his recovery. "I went from rags to riches, riches to rags, then rags to the curb, the curb to homelessness," Wilson shares emotionally. "Because I was an alcoholic and a crack cocaine addict! But I'm now 28 years clean and sober!"
Throughout the performance, Wilson effortlessly transitions between his timeless classics like "Outstanding" and "Computer Love" and more recent gems like "Sweet Yamz" and "There Goes My Baby." Backed by a live band and accompanied by a choir, Wilson's commanding vocals fill the room with raw emotion and infectious joy.
This electrifying Tiny Desk concert sets the stage for NPR's month-long celebration of Black music, featuring an exceptional lineup of diverse artists, including Babyface, Adam Blackstone, Ambré, Amaarae, Brandee Younger and surprise guests.
NPR's commitment to showcasing Black artists and their unique creative expressions sets the stage for an exhilarating month of musical exploration.
Last year's celebration left an indelible impact with unforgettable performances by Usher, FKA Twigs, Monica, and Larry June, creating viral moments, such as Usher's iconic "watch this" meme during his rendition of "Confessions Part II."
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.
