Finesse2tymes’ life since returning home from prison in 2022 has been a total rollercoaster. Though his critics have been particularly ferocious with their wisecracks about his appearance and unconventional relationship decisions, the “How to Act” hitmaker continues to march proudly to the beat of his own drum. Living in such way makes Finesse feel free, but it seems to upset others, including his past collaborator Jucee Froot. The pair worked together on “Minaj Tonight’ back in 2018, and while some hip-hop heads still go back to that joint, in 2024, their paths are crossing again in a far less friendly manner.
Earlier this week, the femcee had a few things to get off her chest. “PU**Y B**CH, STOP [CALLING] AROUND RUNNING YO C**K [SUCKA] B**CH,” she wrote beneath a photoshopped image of FNG King’s dad. In the picture, Finesse’s back is turned to the camera as he models a black lingerie set and long hair. He recently underwent surgery to alter his appearance, and since then, the internet’s been clowning him non-stop. “[I DON’T] GOT NO OG 304 OR BIG HOMIE, [YOU] KNOW WHO [TO CALL]!!” Froot’s rant went on.
“[Call] me b**ch [and] PULL YP IF ITS SMOKE LIKE [YOU] SAID. [AND] ALL THIS [ABOUT WHY YOU] HAD ME BLOCKED, BOY [YOU TOO] ZESTY SUS ,” the rising star further dissed Finesse. “SEE I was CHILLING on that BIG BOOTY TT NA I AIN’T STOPPIN!! This internet s**t be cr*zy. TAG TT 2times SURGEON #I’mAskingForAFriend . [YOU] SAID PULL UP THEN WENT TO CALLING PEOPLE LIKE [YOU] WAS GONE GET SOMETHING DONE TO ME… What the f**k is going on here? ,” Froot couldn’t help but laugh.
Besides what Jucee Froot’s been alleging about Finesse2tymes, the Memphis native is also currently being put on blast for selling the same verse to two different artists. Rather than try to hide the situation, he reminded critics that the music industry is “a business,” one in which he’s choosing to work smarter rather than harder. Read more about that at the link below, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.
Meek Mill recently discussed his 2007 arrest, on the 17th anniversary of the day police booked him for attempted or aggravated assault against a police officer. Reflecting on the incident on Twitter, Meek explained that police lied about the situation. They had obtained a search warrant for his home after an officer for Philadelphia’s Narcotics Field Unit claimed he sold crack to an informant. Afterward, police said Meek chased them and fired a shot at one of them. He used his mug shot from the arrest as the cover of his Dreamchasers 4 mixtape.
“January 23rd I caught this case I got charged for pointed a gun at a cop and selling crack,” he began. “I was just walking to the store with with a gun to protect my one life in a dangerous hood! Them cops lied on me and karma is repaying me! Be a good person you gone prosper! I did not sell or have crack on me! I only sold crack a few weeks when I was flat broke, I was selling weed to the people who sold crack that had the big stacks of cash! The same weed trapping they doing nowadays! But paying 6k a pound for haze at 17 crazy lol.”
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – JANUARY 19: Meek Mill performs at Little Caesars Arena on January 19, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Scott Legato/Getty Images)
In another post, Meek added: “I never sold heroin in my life that sh*t killed one of my favorite aunts! Like a a few weeks b4 Christmas if I’m not mistaken… it’s a million ways to get this cash I would never sell that knowing the effect of that! Sh*t killed my cousin ‘mom’ my we cried for months!” Check out his tweets on the matter below.
Meek Mill On His 2007 Arrest
I did not sell or have crack on me! I only sold crack a few weeks when I was flat broke …. I was selling weed to the people who sold crack that had the big stacks of cash! The same weed trapping they doing nowadays! But paying 6k a pound for haze at 17 crazy lol
I never sold heroin in my life that shit killed one of my favorite aunts! Like a a few weeks b4 Christmas if I’m not mistaken… it’s a million ways to get this cash I would never sell that knowing the effect of that! Shit killed my cousin “mom” my we cried for months!
In the years since his arrest, Meek has become an impassioned advocate of criminal justice reform. Be on the lookout for further updates on Meek Mill on HotNewHipHop.
Isaiah Rashad has celebrated the 10th anniversary of ‘Cilvia Demo’ by releasing new live versions of select songs, recorded during an intimate performance.
Big Moochie Grape has been one of the most exciting forces out of Memphis over the past few years, especially after Young Dolph signed him to PRE. Projects like Eat Or Get Ateset the stage for his ascent. Meanwhile, 2022’s East Haiti Baby served as a testament to his dexterous flow, impeccable beat selection, and raw tales from East Memphis. Unfortunately, months after the release of the 2022 album, Moochie found himself behind bars for a probation violation.
“I got caught with a gun. Possession of a handgun by a convicted felon. And this would lead to the whole thing,” he explained to HotNewHipHop in his first interview since his release on January 17th, 2024. “But me not going to see probation… Like I said, with Dolph passing, it just took a big toll on me, and I just wasn’t in my right state of mind.” However, even from behind bars, the “Freestyle” rapper didn’t let his time go to waste. In November 2023, he unveiled East Haiti Baby: Incarcerated, the deluxe edition to his 2022 opus, which boasted appearances from other incarcerated rappers, including YFN Lucci, Rio Da Yung OG, and C-Murder, who shares words of wisdom during the interlude.
Coming home after his stint behind bars, he hit the ground running. He filmed a music video outside of jail, debuted his latest single, “WAKE EM UP,” in a From The Block performance, and immediately hit the studio to work on his next project, which HotNewHipHop can confirm exclusively will be titled Eat Or Get Ate 2.
We caught up with Big Moochie Grape shortly after his release to discuss the next chapter of his career, how his friendship with Jay Fizzle led to his deal with Young Dolph, and why PRE is the best movement.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
HotNewHipHop:How does it feel to be home? Especially with the success you achieved during your time behind bars
Big Moochie Grape: It feels great. I’m just ready to get back to it. I’m ready to stay working.
What was the first thing when you got back home?
Worked.
You shot a music video, too, right?
Yeah, I shot the music video at the jail. Left the jail and went straight to the studio.
What was your first meal once you came back home? I’m sure the food behind bars wasn’t the greatest.
Yeah, you know, we eat steak and stay up late.
If you don’t mind, could you walk me through what led to your incarceration?
I got caught with a gun. Possession of a handgun by a convicted felon. And this would lead to the whole thing but me not going to see probation… Like I said, with Dolph passing, it just took a big toll on me, and I just wasn’t in my right state of mind.
I read that you had your first run-in with the law when you were 8 years old. Did you feel like people treated you differently when you went to jail considering your status?
Yeah, people treated me different, the inmates, you know what I’m saying? Some of the inmates never been locked up with somebody like me. I had people working for me in jail, like I was kicked up, boss status. You know, I was in a little country town so, you know, they ain’t used to somebody like me. Like, they was infatuated.
You caught the case in Georgia. Currently, you have any conditions?
Yeah, I got a few conditions for like six months. After that, I’m back on the road.
In your absence, it felt like Memphis reclaimed its position as a major hub in hip-hop. How do you feel about the way your city has a firm grip on the genre right now?
It’s a good feeling knowing that it comes from my hometown but to keep it 100, I’m not really worried about no other Memphis rapper. Just me and my team.
How do you feel about the way PRE kept their foot on the gas while you were locked up?
Yeah. The best movement ever.
How would you describe the way PRE distinguishes itself compared to the other labels, collectives and groups within hip-hop?
We’re phenomenal.
Could you elaborate a little further on that?
Like, ain’t nobody seeing us in any shape, form or fashion. We do it our way and nobody else way.
Via @IThinkEthan
I’m sure that’s something that Young Dolph instilled into you early on, especially moving as an independent artist. On “Non Stop,” you rap, “Major labels callin’ my phone, know I’m finna decline it.” At this point, how do you think a major label could benefit you?
It wouldn’t benefit me at all. I don’t plan on doing it.
Can you tell me about how you and Young Dolph first linked up? I read that you were basically debuting music throughout clubs in Memphis, and it eventually landed on Dolph’s radar.
The other artist on the label, Jay Fizzle — that’s my best friend, so that’s how really I was around. I was already around, and then I just started making music out of the blue, and [Young Dolph] loved the sh*t.
Did the fact that you made music surprise him at that point?
Yeah. It was surprising because I wasn’t even making music at first.
C-Murder appears on the project during the interlude, and he tells you to use your time wisely. How did you use your time behind bars?
Just did a whole lot of thinking. Like, trying to figure out myself. I was putting the project together the whole time, trying to feed the streets.
Did you create a vision board or anything like that to determine what you wanted to do and the goals you had once you came home?
Nah, I just called home, go over it with my team, and we came up with a plan.
Have you been able to speak to C-Murder since your release?
No, not yet, but it’s coming.
Was he someone that you listened to often growing up?
Yeah, I done listened to him when I was younger.
Does any particular C-Murder or No Limit album or song stand out to you?
Actually, I like the whole TRU [by True] album.
Do you remember discovering that album?
Oh no, not really. I just came across it.
Eat Or Get Ate made a strong statement. Then, East Haiti Baby further cemented your name. Can you tell me about creating this album?
Yeah, I was in jail for like four and a half months. And then, I got out, and I just started going crazy. That’s how East Haiti Baby came about. But it’s also about me coming from my side, East Memphis. Like, what I’ve been through. I’m basically giving them my life story.
Okay, word. So what was the process behind the deluxe edition? I’m sure you and your team were in close contact to bring this to life, but who was the person who helped flesh out the deluxe?
Shit, CEO, my management team. My folks got something going on. They know what they’re doing, so I just follow the lead. Plus, I called home every day, and we were going over the album. So, I got a chance to listen to the songs over the phone and, you know, make it happen.
What was your reaction when you actually got to hear the project in its entirety, mixed and mastered on quality speakers?
Oh, it sounded real good.
What was your favorite track off of the deluxe?
All of them, even the interlude.
You’ve also expanded into philanthropy. I know Paper Route Empire teamed up with The Bail Project last year to help with bail assistance. Considering how close to home that is, do you see yourself getting more involved with charity and giving back?
Yeah, Dolph did it, so he put it on me to do the same thing, you know what I’m sayin’? I’m willing to help anybody if the help is needed.
Outside of the Bail Project, are there any other initiatives that you want to be more involved in?
Yeah, like, giving back to unfortunate kids, helping the elderly, you know? Just put my face on a whole lot of things.
Is there any particular memory that resonates with you from seeing Christmas giveaways or things like that in your area?
Really, Dolph. Dolph had the biggest one.
The turkey drive, right?
Yeah, he always gave back.
Do you remember going to those with him?
Yeah, the day I got signed, on my birthday. He was doing a turkey giveaway on my birthday. Once we got done with the turkey giveaway, I started getting chains, and we went from there.
@IThinkEthan
What’s next for you? I hear you got a new mixtape in the works.
I’m just working consistently, like, trying to come up with a big plan.
Do you have a title for the new project yet?
Yeah, but I ain’t gonna speak on that right now.
[Ed. note: Big Moochie Grape’s team later confirmed Eat Or Get Ate 2 as the title of his next project and is expected to be released in February or March]
Is there any information regarding the album that you could disclose? Features, producers?
I ain’t got all of that together right now, but it should go down.
And you’re planning to release that in the next few weeks?
Yeah, I really want to do it tomorrow if I could.
Now that you’re home and focused, how would you describe this next chapter of your career?
A next testimony, that’s how I put it. You know, just life experiences and time, too.
What do you hope your fans will take away from this chapter?
If I could do it, anybody could do it. Because I know where I come from and what I’ve been through. Like, I’ve been through the worst that comes from the worst so if I could do it, no different, anybody could do it. You know, I advise everybody to stay working. Hard work pays off.
The Air Jordan 4, a sneaker legend, continues to capture hearts with its timeless design and performance features. Recently, new on-foot photos of the upcoming “Vivid Sulfur” colorway have surfaced, adding excitement to the anticipation surrounding this iconic model. Known for its stability and comfort on the basketball court, the Air Jordan 4 has transcended its athletic roots to become a streetwear staple. The upcoming “Vivid Sulfur” iteration introduces a vibrant and eye-catching color scheme, injecting fresh energy into the classic silhouette.
The on-foot photos showcase the dynamic design in action, highlighting the sleek lines and distinctive features of the Air Jordan 4. The “Vivid Sulfur” colorway boasts a bold combination of colors that is sure to turn heads, making a statement both on and off the court. With its rich history and a nod to the future through new colorways like “Vivid Sulfur,” the Air Jordan 4 remains a symbol of style and performance, continuing to be a coveted choice for sneaker enthusiasts around the globe.
The sneakers feature a sail rubber sole and a sail/yellow midsole that catches the eye. Next, the uppers are constructed from white leather with black and vivid sulfur accenting details. Also, white laces and more yellow Jumpman branding complete the design of these sneakers. Finally, note that these sneakers are a WMNS exclusive release.
Sneaker Bar Detroit reports that the Air Jordan 4 “Vivid Sulfur” is going to drop on April 20th. Also, the retail price of the sneakers will be $200 when they are released. Let us know what you think of this sneaker, in the comments section below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the sneaker world. We will be sure to bring you the biggest releases from the biggest brands.
Many of the biggest songs in popular music have long and complicated histories that led them to arrive at being big hits. That often includes tracks being passed around between various artists behind the scenes. Some of the most common pieces of music trivia include popular songs that were originally made for entirely different artists than they would go on to be associated with. During a recent podcast appearance, Mike Will Made-It revealed which one of Jay-Z’s songs wasn’t originally made for him.
The song in question is “Beach Is Better” from Jay-Z’s 2013 album Magna Cart Holy Grail. “Alright, so, ‘Beach is Better’ started off: Big Sean had ’10 to 10.’ He wanted a beat around ’10 to 10.’ So we had did a couple of beats around the a cappella voice note that he had. And ‘Beach is Better’ was one of them,” Mike Will Made-It revealed. Despite that, he never heard back from Big Sean to claim the beat. He reveals that in a session with Hov that followed shortly after the song began to morph into its final version. Check out the clip where he tells the full story below.
In recent weeks Jay-Z has been discussing and promotion a new film he was involved in called The Book Of Clarence. The film was accompanied by a soundtrack that featured some high-profile artists. Lil Wayne, Jorja Smith, and Kid Cudi all pop up on various tracks. Additionally, Jay-Z himself even teams up with R&B legend D’Angelo on the 9-minute song “I Want You Forever.”
Recently, Jay-Z took to Twitter spaces to discuss the soundtrack. He specifically gave credit to Doja Cat for her appearance on “JEEZU.” She raps alongside Kodak Black on the song and Hov was impressed by her artistic process. What do you think of Mike Will Made-It revealing the origins of “Beach Is Better?” Would you like to hear a version of the song done by Big Sean? Let us know in the comment section below.
It’s no secret that growing up with celebrity parents can come with its own set of struggles. According to social media users, however, King Harris is drastically overplaying his own. T.I. and Tiny Harris’ 19-year-old son often finds himself at the center of controversy, whether it surrounds his behavior, familial relationships, or online antics. Most recently, he’s been called out for a clip of himself enjoying ramen noodles out of a makeshift aluminum foil bowl.
“I done ran out of bowls. I done made me an aluminum foil bowl,” he says in the clip. “Figure it out, man.” Commenters are out in full force accusing the up-and-coming rapper of pretending like he’s ever had to rough it, and expressing confusion over his apparent attempts to hide the fact that he grew up privileged.
“He wanna be from the trenches so bad. Meanwhile his daddy probably own stock in aluminum foil,” one critical commenter writes. “He ain’t in no trenches, wash the damn dishes,” another says. Several users also point out that those who actually grew up in difficult circumstances probably wouldn’t waste so much aluminum foil. Instead, they argue that they’d simply find another makeshift vessel to use. “Real hood ppl don’t run out of bowls…..we turn containers into bowls, cups into bowls, jars into bowls, maybe even a pot into a bowl,” one user claims.
King’s parents have called him out for similar behavior in the past, namely during their infamous Atlanta Falcons game spat. He told fans that his living conditions weren’t ideal growing up, prompting T.I. to ask him if he’s ever woken up with a roach on his face. When he confirmed that he hadn’t, his father responded, “Alright then! You don’t know what you talkin’ ‘bout.” What do you think of King Harris getting accused of pretending like he didn’t grow up privileged? Do you think he deserves the roast he’s getting online, or are social media users overreacting? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.
With events such as Rolling Loud and Coachella announcing their artist lineups, ticket sales dates, and everything else, it was a matter of time before another was to follow. We are referring to Lovers & Friends, sort of a new kid on the block to the festival scene. 2022 was essentially the inaugural year, but it was not supposed to be that late. COVID derailed many things including this R&B/hip-hop celebration. Well, we are happy they are continuing to bring the fun as the third Lovers & Friends will be underway soon.
According to multiple publications, including Billboard, we have word on the artists in attendance, the day of the festival, tickets, etc. The Las Vegas-based event will take place on May 4 which is a Saturday. Headlining acts include Usher, Janet Jackson, and the Backstreet Boys. As for tickets, those will go on presale on Friday, January 26th, at 10 a.m. PT. Additionally, tickets start at $19.99 down.
For that presale opportunity, you can find the link right here. Some of the unique sets you can experience at Lovers & Friends are Lil Wayne performing Tha Carter III in full, as well as Usher performing Confessions for its 20th anniversary. Other acts that will perform include Timbaland, Ludacris, Nelly, Nelly Furtado, Gwen Stefani, and so many more superstars. If you have not been able to make it yet, this is the one to go to.
What are your thoughts on the lineup and announcement of the Lovers & Friends Festival? Who will draw the biggest crowd at the event? Is this your favorite music event, why or why not? Out of all the lineups the festival has collected, is this the best one? Are you going to attend this year? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding the Lovers & Friends Festival. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on around the music world.
,” the rising star further dissed Finesse. “SEE I was CHILLING on that BIG BOOTY TT NA I AIN’T STOPPIN!! 
. [YOU] SAID PULL UP THEN WENT TO CALLING PEOPLE LIKE [YOU] WAS GONE GET SOMETHING DONE TO ME… What the f**k is going on here? 
