Hip-Hop Mourns Loss of Bo$$: Def Jam's First Female MC Dead at 54

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

The hip-hop community is mourning the loss of Bo$$ (born Lichelle Laws), the trailblazing female rapper who made history as the first woman signed to Def Jam Recordings. Bun B confirmed her passing at 54 on Monday via Instagram, sharing a heartfelt tribute to the late artist.

"Rest in peace to my big sis Lichelle Laws AKA Bo$$," he wrote. "One of the best female MCs and a dear friend. Give Rick Royal a hug for me. Long Live The Org!"

Bo$$'s influence on the rap scene was undeniable. Fellow icons like Jermaine Dupri, Jadakiss and DJ Premier expressed their condolences and shared memories of working with the Detroit-born legend, whose musical journey began in her hometown before she caught the eye of Def Jam's West Coast division, leading to her groundbreaking debut album, "Born Gangstaz," in 1993.

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In recent years, Bo$$ faced significant health challenges, battling kidney disease since 2011. She also suffered a major stroke and seizure in 2017. To support her medical costs, her family launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for a recommended specialized procedure.

Megan Thee Stallion's New Merch Line Supports Women's Well-Being Charities

Planet Fitness x Megan Thee Stallion Crop Top

Grammy-winning rapper Megan Thee Stallion joins forces with Planet Fitness for "Thee Hottie Drop," a bold merchandise line launched in honor of Women's History Month. This collaboration directly supports Megan's charitable foundations—the Pete & Thomas Foundation and the SeekHer Foundation—dedicated to enhancing women's well-being.

Featuring empowering messages, the collection includes a crop top, sweatpants, and high-rise socks, embodying Megan's commitment to breaking down barriers for women in fitness spaces. "The Hotties loved the last Planet Fitness drop, so we had to run it back with brand new pieces," Megan stated in an announcement touting the release. "But more importantly, I'm proud of the positive impact this collection will bring."

The Houston-born artist, known for her musical prowess, also champions women's empowerment. Her recent hit "Hiss" underscores her influence, complementing her extensive accolades, including three Grammy Awards. Beyond music, Megan leads the Pete & Thomas Foundation, focusing on education, housing and health initiatives for marginalized communities.

Planet Fitness, echoing Megan's advocacy, emphasizes research showing women's struggles with self-care in fitness settings. "We witnessed tremendous demand for the first merch collection launched in collaboration with Megan," said Jamie Medeiros, Chief Brand Officer at Planet Fitness. "Rolling out this new collection to support Megan's foundation and the SeekHer Foundation is a priority for us."

"Thee Hottie Drop" is available at shop.planetfitness.com until March 31st.

Watch: Megan Thee Stallion Channels "Hiss" Energy with Snake Liquor Adventure

Screengrab: TikTok/theestallion

Megan Thee Stallion, the celebrated rapper known for her snake-themed hits like "Hiss," embarked on a daring escapade during her recent visit to Japan. While immersing herself in the local culture, she encountered a fascinating yet unnerving beverage: Habushu, a traditional Okinawan liquor infused with a venomous Habu snake.

Initially taken aback by the unusual sight of the snake coiled inside the bottle, Megan couldn't help but express her astonishment. "What the heck!" she exclaimed, her eyes widening. "Okay, okay. Is this gonna kill me? He's looking at me," she quipped, momentarily unnerved by the serpent's gaze.

@theestallion Lol should I show yall all of the food / drinks ive been trying out in Japan ? 😂 I just haddd to taste this dang snake drink 😂 #japan ♬ original sound - Megan Thee Stallion

Despite her reservations, and perhaps inspired by her own fearless musical persona, Megan decided to brave the experience. She took a cautious sip from a shot glass. Her reaction was immediate, her facial expressions revealing a mix of surprise and slight disgust. "That's tough. That's strong," she remarked. "Knew a snake had a taste that tastes like a snake."

Habushu, known for its potent bite, is made by fermenting a Habu pit viper inside the bottle. This process imbues the liquor with a distinct flavor profile and a high alcohol content.

Megan Thee Stallion's trip to Japan wasn't just for leisure. Known for her love of anime, she recently served as a presenter at the 2024 Crunchyroll Anime Awards in Tokyo.