Wendy Williams has built her reputation as a long-time talk show host and entertainment news provocateur, making her world renown for her career in these roles. However, in the dynamic world of entertainment journalism, Wendy Williams has kept her finger on the pulse of many of pop culture’s greatest genres, including hip hop. The fearless entertainment journalist has long been a force to be reckoned with, known for her unabashed opinions and brash approach to discussing celebrity gossip on air. Among the many targets of her candid commentary, several rappers have found themselves in the crosshairs of Wendy Williams’ unfiltered ire.
The prolific talk show host’s rap beefs date back to the 1990s, with a long history of heated conflicts with notable music figures. From fiery on-air exchanges to social media spats, each episode serves as a riveting chapter in the ongoing saga of Wendy Williams’ intriguing relationship with the hip-hop community. Here are 7 instances of Williams’ greatest rap feuds.
Wendy Williams has sparked beef with a constant stream of media figures throughout her decades-long career. One recurring theme the host just can’t seem to let go of is her constant and seemingly random accusations that rappers are secretly homosexual. One such recipient of these claims is Sean Combs, AKA Diddy.
Back in 1998, while she was hosting a HOT 97 radio show, Williams launched a tirade about how the Bad Boy co-founder was secretly gay, and actively paying millions of dollars in hush money to media outlets to keep this secret under wraps. Obviously, what celebrities do with other consenting adults is of no business to anyone but themselves or their partners, but it bears reminding that there has never been any evidence to back up these bizarre claims, to begin with.
At the time, as one of the world’s biggest names in rap, Diddy wielded significant influence over the entertainment news media. He utilized his power to temporarily remove Wendy Williams from the air. While the move may have benefitted Diddy in the short term, it seemed to confirm to some conspiracy-minded individuals that Williams had struck a nerve, leading to these rumors persisting to this day.
6. Tupac Shakur
Wendy Williams wasn’t content to keep her ire on one side of the East Coast-West Coast divide, either, as she had already been embroiled in a feud with Tupac in 1995. Like the beef with Diddy, Williams’s back-and-forth with Shakur began over unsubstantiated claims of the rappers’ sexual activity. Williams took to the air to suggest that Tupac had been sexually assaulted by fellow prisoners while serving a sentence in Clinton Correctional Facility. This unsubstantiated rumor sparked a diplomatic response from Tupac’s media team, who released a statement referencing the host’s history of making unfounded controversial remarks.
Tupac Shakur personally responded with considerably less diplomacy, mentioning Wendy Williams on the track “Why U Turn On Me?” The lyrics, which reference Williams and her role in spreading the rumor, contain profanity and borderline threats. This underscores once again Tupac’s unparalleled prowess in the realm of verbal warfare.
5. Will Smith
In Fact When Eminem dissed on Real Slim Shady Will Smith not only did he respond but went at Larry Elder and Wendy Williams. pic.twitter.com/0tKRKcKzIK
Long before Will Smith was slapping his wife’s name out of Chris Rock’s mouth, the rapper-turned-actor found himself feuding with Wendy Williams on wax. Apparently, Williams had offered one too many deep dives into Will Smith’s personal life, including releasing photos and commentary about Smith’s daughter without his consent. This prompted the Fresh Prince to clap back on the song “Mr. Nice Guy.”
In the song, Smith raps “Wendy Williams, you don’t know me. I’m not your punchin’ bag, you gon’ blow me off, girl. Better leave me alone, before I buy your radio station and send you home.” While the 2005 track was decidedly less vulgar than the Tupac Shakur track which preceded it a decade earlier, it still got the message across that Will Smith wouldn’t take criticism of his family lying down.
Like many of the rappers on this list, Lil Kim’s beef with Wendy Williams was sparked when Williams took to the entertainment news desk to spread hot Hollywood gossip. In this instance, Williams prodded Lil Kim for getting a number of cosmetic surgeries done on her face and neck, spending whole segments of her show bullying the “Crush On You” rapper for her looks. Kim responded with a flurry of angry tweets, calling Wendy a “hating b***h” and accusing her of trying and failing to secure a romantic relationship with the late Notorious B.I.G. back in the ’90s.
Despite Wendy Williams’s penchant for publicizing people’s problems, some media figures were still gullible enough to confide in the entertainment news host as a friend. One such example is Master P, who privately discussed his estranged relationship with his family with Williams in 2014. Later that year, Williams publicized details of P’s private life, including personal details about his wife and children, even claiming that “the family could do better” than having Master P as a patriarch.
Master P responded with a sorrowful lament of his misguided relationship with Williams, stating, “First of all, I thought Wendy Williams was my friend. I understand that her job is to entertain gossip but how could she keep picking up TMZ gossip as if it was real news when she should have contacted me directly if she was really concerned about my family, or me like she claims. If anyone understands being in the media and having to deal with celebrity personal family gossip and betrayal, she should know because of her own situation. If she wants to know the truth, as my friend, she should call me directly to get the facts and the truth rather than joining the media circus and talking trash.”
In 2006 Wendy Williams sparked one of her most pathetic and invasive feuds ever, by revealing to the public on her WBLS radio show that Method Man’s wife, Tamika Smith had been diagnosed with cancer. While it’s unclear exactly where she heard this information, Method Man made it clear that he and his wife wanted that information to remain private as they navigated the difficult process of seeking treatment. In subsequent interviews, Method Man has spoken about how disrespected he and Tamika felt by Williams’s on-air discussion of the diagnosis, with the Wu-Tang rapper stating, “Her family members didn’t even know she was sick. You can attack me anyway you want to. I’m in the entertainment business, but don’t attack my family.”
Unfortunately, instead of seeing the error of her ways, Williams has continued this feud over the years, including claiming in 2021 that she had engaged in a one-night stand with Meth back in the day. Tamika finally broke her silence on the subject by lashing out at Williams in a public statement. This beef proves that, despite her assertion that she is a fixture within hip hop culture, Wendy Williams must have missed the memo that the Wu-Tang Clan ain’t nothin’ to f*** with.
If anyone could rival Wendy Williams for the position of most petty provocateur in pop culture and entertainment, it’s 50 Cent. The pair have clashed numerous times over the years, giving rise to a series of hilarious social media posts and talk show segments as a result of their ongoing beef. Similar to many other rappers, Wendy Williams accused 50 Cent of being secretly gay and criticized him on air for his comments expressing joy at the prospect of no longer paying child support.
Likewise, 50 Cent took to social media to share doctored photos of Williams in the poster for Beauty and the Beast, making fun of her looks and body type, and calling her a crackhead through numerous online roasts. Though the beef has been cold for a few years now, both Wendy Williams and 50 Cent have a long history of bringing up old feuds decades later for a cheap laugh, meaning this beef could reignite at a moment’s notice.
Prepare for a fresh chapter in LeBron James’s signature line with the Nike LeBron 21 and the imminent release of the “Aragonite” colorway. This iteration introduces a captivating dusty pink and blue color scheme, adding a touch of elegance to the dynamic sneaker silhouette. The “Aragonite” colorway not only showcases LeBron’s on-court dominance but also brings a stylish flair with its unique palette. The dusty pink and blue hues are seamlessly blended across the sneaker’s design, creating a visually striking and fashion-forward aesthetic.
Crafted for peak performance, the Nike LeBron 21 ensures a comfortable and supportive fit on the basketball court. The innovative design, coupled with the eye-catching color scheme, positions these sneakers as a versatile choice for both athletes and streetwear enthusiasts. As fans eagerly await the release of the “Aragonite” colorway, the Nike LeBron 21 continues to cement its status as a pinnacle of performance and style in the basketball sneaker realm. This edition not only pays homage to LeBron James’s legacy but also represents a bold step forward in the evolution of his signature line.
The sneakers feature a gum rubber sole and a clean white midsole. Blue leather constructs the uppers, with denim-like details and a minimal Swoosh. LeBron’s signature logo is found on both tongues, and a wavy, roped design is featured on the heels. Finally, more durst pink accents include the tongue and the heels, creating the Aragonite look. Overall, this pair is engineered for performance on the basketball court and is released in a clean colorway.
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Nice Kicks reports that the Nike LeBron 21 “Aragonite” will be released on February 8th. Also, the retail price of the sneakers will be $200 when they are released. Further, make sure to let us know what you think about these kicks in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the most recent updates and news from the sneaker community. We’ll make sure to offer you the newest products from the most notable brands.
Victoria Monet is blossoming into a superstar. She released her debut major label album Jaguar II last year to acclaim from both fans and critics. That album was propelled by her breakthrough hit “On My Mama” which peaked at number 35 on the Hot 100 last year. The song is still hovering on the chart inside the top 50 this week. The song has also racked up more than 67 million streams on Spotify. That puts it among her biggest tracks on the platform.
She got the biggest news yet when the Grammy nominations dropped. She scored an incredible 7 nominations for her breakout year including Best New Artist. She and Ice Spice are neck and neck among those projecting who the favorites are for the Best New Artist Award. The nominations and the major year she had in 2023 were central to a recent interview she did with CBS Mornings. But it wasn’t the only attention-grabbing topic she discussed while there. Check out some clips from the interview that have fans talking below.
Victoria Monet has been openly bisexual and in the new interview she discussed the ways people misunderstand it. After confirming that she’s comfortable identifying as bisexual and people knowing about it. But she expanded on misconceptions about it. She explained that people somehow don’t understand that she can still be attracted to women while actively dating a man she has a child with.
Monet has been brushing shoulders with some of the biggest names in music following her breakthrough moment. Earlier this month video made the rounds online of her enjoying herself at a club with Janelle Monae and Teyana Taylor. And just a few weeks later she was out with Megan Thee Stallion, who was grinding on her in advance of an explosive beef with Nicki Minaj that erupted last week. What do you think of Victoria Monet explaining how people have trouble understanding her bisexuality? Do you think she’ll win the Best New Artist award at the Grammys this weekend? Let us know in the comment section below.
The Weeknd has broken yet another Spotify record as he is now the only artist on the platform’s history to have multiple songs with over 3 billion streams.
The Air Jordan 1 Low is gearing up for a stylish update with the upcoming “Anthracite/Industrial Blue” colorway. This new iteration adds a sleek and modern touch to the iconic silhouette. Draped in anthracite hues, the sneakers exude a sophisticated charm that blends seamlessly with the striking industrial blue accents. The color combination not only offers a contemporary look but also pays homage to the timeless appeal of the Air Jordan 1 Low. Designed for versatility and everyday wear, the “Anthracite/Industrial Blue” colorway promises to elevate sneaker rotations.
The classic Air Jordan Wings logo and Swoosh in industrial blue create a visually appealing contrast against the anthracite backdrop. As anticipation builds for the release of this colorway, sneaker enthusiasts can look forward to stepping out in a pair that seamlessly marries the Air Jordan legacy with a fresh, updated aesthetic. Overall, the Air Jordan 1 Low continues to capture the hearts of fans with its enduring style, and the “Anthracite/Industrial Blue” iteration adds a contemporary twist to this iconic silhouette.
The sneakers feature a black rubber sole and a clean white midsole. The sneakers feature an anthracite leather base for the uppers, with dark navy leather overlays. Additionally, a lighter blue Swoosh adorns the sides of the shoes, and dark laces round out the design. Finally, blue Jordan branding can be found on the tongue and heels. Overall, this pair features a clean combination of colors.
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Kicks On Fire reports that the Air Jordan 1 Low “Anthracite/Industrial Blue” will be released in the Spring. Also, the retail price of the sneakers will be $115 when they are released. Further, make sure to let us know what you think about these kicks in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the most recent updates and news from the sneaker community. We’ll make sure to offer you the newest products from the most notable brands.
Esperanza Spalding, through her unmatched blend of jazz, classical, and soul, has crafted a unique niche in the music world. This culminated in a career that defies genre boundaries and also enriches the cultural tapestry of our time. As of 2024, LuxLux reports her net worth at $2 million. It is a testament to her profound impact on the industry and her unwavering commitment to her craft. From her early days as a self-taught musician in Portland, Oregon, to her ascendancy as a Grammy Award-winning artist, Spalding’s journey is a compelling narrative of artistic evolution and dedication.
Portrait of, from left, American musicians Ledisi (born Ledisi Anibade Young), Jonathan Batiste, and. Esperanza Spalding as they pose backstage at Central Park SummerStage. New York, New York, June 28. 2009. (Photo by Jack Vartoogian/Getty Images)
Esperanza Spalding’s early life in Portland, Oregon, laid the foundation for her musical journey. From teaching herself violin at a young age to earning a scholarship at the Berklee College of Music, Spalding’s prodigious talent was evident. Her debut album, Junjo, released in 2006, showcased her innovative approach to jazz and immediately garnered critical acclaim. However, it was her fourth album, Radio Music Society, that won her the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album. This cemented her status in the music industry. Spalding’s academic achievements also include becoming the youngest instructor in Berklee’s history. It highlights her dedication to music education and her role in shaping future generations of musicians.
Innovative Sounds & Collaborations
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 26: Esperanza Spalding, winner of Best Jazz Vocal Album for. “12 Little Spells” poses in the press room during the 62nd Annual GRAMMY Awards at. Staples Center on January 26, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amanda Edwards/Getty Images)
Spalding’s discography is a blend of complexity and accessibility, demonstrating her ability to push the boundaries of jazz music. Albums like Esperanza, Chamber Music Society, and Emily’s D+Evolution reveal her versatility and creativity, blending elements of jazz, classical, and pop to create a sound that is uniquely hers. Her collaborations with artists across genres, including Herbie Hancock, Prince, and Wayne Shorter, not only broadened her musical horizons but also introduced her to a wider audience. Spalding’s commitment to innovation is evident in her approach to music production and performance, where she often incorporates visual arts and storytelling.
Awards & Recognition
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 16: Musician Esperanza Spalding attends the Build Series. at Build Studio on October 16, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Jim Spellman/Getty Images)
Esperanza Spalding’s talent has been recognized with numerous awards and nominations. Beyond her Grammy victories, including the prestigious Best New Artist award—a first for a jazz musician—Spalding has received critical acclaim for her contributions to music. Her ability to seamlessly integrate different musical styles has made her a pivotal figure in contemporary jazz and a role model for aspiring musicians. Spalding’s influence extends beyond her music, as she uses her platform to advocate for social issues, including education and environmental conservation, further solidifying her impact on and off the stage.
Apart from her musical achievements, Spalding’s work as an educator and activist is noteworthy. Her teaching positions, including her role at Harvard University, underscore her commitment to nurturing new talent and her belief in the transformative power of music education. Spalding’s activism, particularly in environmental and social causes, reflects her holistic approach to her career and life. Her ability to intertwine her music with her values offers a powerful message of hope and change, making her an influential figure in the arts and beyond.
Luka Doncic’s signature basketball sneaker, the Jordan Luka 2, is set to make waves with its upcoming “Black Volt” colorway dropping tomorrow. Crafted for on-court excellence, these sneakers bear the mark of the NBA star’s dynamic playing style. The “Black Volt” edition exudes a bold aesthetic, combining a sleek black base with vibrant volt accents. This colorway not only reflects Luka Doncic’s electrifying energy on the court but also adds a stylish edge to the performance-driven design. As the signature line of a rising basketball sensation, the Jordan Luka 2 prioritizes both comfort and style.
The upcoming release promises a fusion of cutting-edge technology and a striking color palette, making it a must-have for basketball enthusiasts and sneakerheads alike. With the imminent drop of the “Black Volt” colorway, fans can anticipate lacing up in a pair that captures the essence of Luka Doncic’s prowess and elevates their on-court experience. The Jordan Luka 2 continues to carve its place as a go-to choice for those who value the perfect blend of performance and fashion in their basketball sneakers.
The sneakers feature an icy blue translucent rubber sole with a clean white midsole that features a green Jumpman. A green plate is visible through the sides, and a smoky mesh constructs the base of the uppers, with black leather overlays. Black laces and a black tongue complete the design. The tongues feature Luka branding in volt, and the heels feature “Non Desistas Non Exieris” which means “Never Give Up, Never Surrender.”
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Sneaker Bar Detroit reports that the Jordan Luka 2 “Black Volt” will be released on February 2nd. Also, the retail price of the sneakers will be $130 when they are released. Further, make sure to let us know what you think about these kicks in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the most recent updates and news from the sneaker community. We’ll make sure to offer you the newest products from the most notable brands.
Amy Adams, a figure synonymous with versatility and depth in Hollywood, boasts a net worth of $75 million as of 2024, as cited by Wealthy Gorilla. This financial milestone is a testament to her illustrious career, characterized by a series of critically acclaimed performances that have not only endeared her to audiences worldwide but also underscored her place as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.
The Journey To Stardom
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 16: Amy Adams attends Disney’s “Disenchanted” Premiere at. El Capitan Theatre on November 16, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)
Amy Adams’s ascent in Hollywood is a narrative of resilience and dedication. Beginning her career in the late 1990s, Adams faced her fair share of challenges. Her early roles were in lesser-known projects that scarcely hinted at the heights she would eventually reach. However, her breakthrough came with the 2005 indie film Junebug. It showcased her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and depth, earning her first Academy Award nomination.
This role marked the beginning of a transformative era in Adams’s career. She went on to star in a variety of films, ranging from the musical fantasy Enchanted to the critically acclaimed drama Doubt. It demonstrated a range that few of her peers possess. Further, each performance, whether in The Fighter or American Hustle, has been a testament to her skill. They have earned her multiple Oscar nominations and solidified her reputation as a formidable talent in the industry.
Mastery Across Genres
SANTA MONICA, CA – AUGUST 1: (L-R) Sean Patrick Thomas, Sarah Thompson, Keri Lynn Pratt. Amy Adams and Robin Dunne attend First Annual Teen Choice Awards on August 1, 1999 at the. Barker Hanger at Santa Monica Airport in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)
Adams’s ability to seamlessly transition between genres has been a hallmark of her career. Her portrayal of Lois Lane in the DC Extended Universe films showcased her appeal in blockbuster cinema, while her roles in Arrival and Nocturnal Animals in 2016 highlighted her prowess in conveying intricate narratives. These roles not only expanded her artistic repertoire but also contributed significantly to her financial success, elevating her status to one of Hollywood’s highest-paid actresses.
Her dedication to her craft is evident in the meticulous preparation she undertakes for each role, often immersing herself in the lives of her characters to deliver performances that resonate with authenticity and emotional depth. This commitment has not only endeared her to critics and audiences alike but has also been a critical factor in the commercial success of her films, contributing to her impressive net worth.
Beyond The Silver Screen
HOLLYWOOD, CA – JANUARY 11: Actress Amy Adams, husband Darren Le Gallo and daughter. Aviana Olea Le Gallo attend the ceremony honoring Amy Adams with star on the. Hollywood Walk of Fame on January 11, 2017 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)
Off-screen, Adams’s impact is equally noteworthy. Her work with various charitable organizations reflects her commitment to leveraging her platform for positive change. Additionally, her foray into production with the launch of her own production company signifies a new chapter in her career, one that promises to offer stories that inspire and engage audiences. This further solidified her financial legacy and influence in the entertainment industry.
As Amy Adams continues to explore new avenues in her career, her legacy in Hollywood as an actress of unparalleled talent and integrity remains undisputed. Her journey from aspiring dancer to one of the most respected actresses in the film industry is a compelling narrative of ambition, perseverance, and success. With a net worth reflecting her career achievements and a body of work that spans a diverse range of compelling characters, Amy Adams’s story is one of enduring impact and artistic triumph.
It’s (almost) the most wonderful time of the year for music fans: The Grammys. This includes the inevitable discourse that follows the award show. The Recording Academy already caught people’s ire when they announced their nominees for the 2024 awards ceremony last year, snubbing hip-hop releases in the general field, much to the dismay of rap fans. The show is scheduled to air on Sunday, February 4 at 8 PM ET on CBS so naturally, we’re asking two important questions: Who will probably walk away with a golden gramophone in the hip-hop and R&B categories, and who should win?
Of course, the difference here is that there are titans and underdogs in every race. Sometimes, the differentiating factor is quality, other times it’s commercial success, and we might even get a legacy pick here and there. In every case, there is more than one release worthy of a Grammy; sometimes, all of them are. Hopefully the Recording Academy proves us wrong when our answers differ
Best R&B Performance
Robert Glasper performs at Los Angeles Chapter Nominee Celebration 2024 in Los Angeles on January 27, 2024 in Hollywood, California. (Jerod Harris/Getty Images)
Chris Brown – “Summer Too Hot”
Robert Glasper ft. SiR & Alex Isley – “Back To Love”
Coco Jones – “ICU”
Victoria Monét – “How Does It Make You Feel”
SZA – “Kill Bill”
What Will Win: Are you ready to hear the coldest take you’ve ever heard in your life? Here goes nothing… it’s SZA’s “Kill Bill.” Sure, Chris Brown is also a superstar (and nominated again, somehow), but did his song take over the charts as much as Solana’s? “Back To Love” is peaceful harmony; is that as catchy and enveloping as killing your ex? While Coco Jones’ “ICU” is one of the sultriest songs of 2023, is its instrumental as unique in melody and timbre as Rob Bisel and Carter Lang’s production? Even though this is one of Victoria Monet’s best songs off of JAGUAR II, did it transcend fanbases like this SOS highlight did? No.
What Should Win: But let’s remember the category: Best R&B Performance. As far as vocals, Coco Jones steals the show, and everyone else is basically on par with SZA. That’s to say that “ICU” is probably the correct sleeper pick here if we’re going strictly off of typically captivating performances. But “Kill Bill” displays the TDE singer’s ability to switch cadences and pitches on a dime, multiple flows and melodic approaches, and a more infectious energy. Sorry to cop out on the first category, but we would love a SZA/Coco tie. But when it’s all said and done, “Kill Bill” is what will live on in the industry and with fans alike.
Lil Durk performs during Lil Baby’s concert on December 27, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Prince Williams/WireImage/Getty Images)
Burna Boy ft. 21 Savage – “Sittin’ On Top Of The World”
Doja Cat – “Attention”
Drake & 21 Savage – “Spin Bout U”
Lil Durk ft. J. Cole – “All My Life”
SZA – “Low”
What Will Win: Even though they’re commercial giants, Drake and 21 Savage might get the short end of the stick, thanks to the former’s reluctance to submit to the Grammys before. Then again, that could be exactly what makes them win trophies. But knowing the Recording Academy’s tendency to favor a mix of mainstream rap and classic hip-hop worship, Lil Durk and J. Cole’s “All My Life” is the front-runner. Doja Cat shines the most on “Attention” as a rapper, not a singer, and voters might think SZA already has her R&B and General Field categories in the bag. At least 21 has double odds, but the Burna Boy collab doesn’t have the same name recognition or hit potential.
What Should Win: That being said, as a mixture of melodic dexterity and traditional rap metrics, no track here is as balanced as “Sittin’ On Top Of The World.” The infectious bassline, the gritty drum beat, and 21 Savage’s refreshing approach to a more vintage instrumental contribute to this song’s ear-worm quality. Burna Boy is the star, and his calm but charismatic croons use plenty of different flows to match the shifting instrumentation. “All My Life” is more lyrical except for the chorus, “Spin Bout U” is a weak point on Her Loss in our eyes, and “Low”… well, “Low” is a jam, but a more melodic one than a fusion. So it’s a tight race, but “Sittin’ On Top Of The World” is truly the blend that this category represents.
Best Traditional R&B Performance
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SEPTEMBER 21: Victoria Monét performs during The Jaguar Tour at Joy Theater on September 21, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/Getty Images)
Babyface ft. Coco Jones – “Simple”
Kenyon Dixon – “Lucky”
Victoria Monét ft. Earth, Wind & Fire & Hazel Monét – “Hollywood”
PJ Morton ft. Susan Carol – “Good Morning”
SZA – “Love Language”
What Will Win: So, will SZA’s sheer stardom get her another win? “Love Language” isn’t the most dynamic song in the world vocally, but it’s still a solid pick. Once again, Coco Jones surpasses her on the mic, even though her co-lead Babyface doesn’t do much on their collab performance-wise. Kenyon Dixon’s passion is palpable on “Lucky,” and PJ Morton and Susan Carol have the best chemistry here with throwback Motown appeal. “Hollywood” is very tender, but Victoria Monet and her collaborating musicians certainly have more compelling performances on JAGUAR II. It’s a hard call to make, but our chips are on Victoria. A legendary band and the main artist’s daughter?! That’s just good TV waiting to happen.
What Should Win: Going back to the sheer “performance” aspect, we actually think that Kenyon Dixon had the most adept vocal showing here. “Lucky” is a tight bop with gorgeous instrumental swells that shift the chord progressions in evocative ways, and the Los Angeles singer goes from heart-wrenching falsettos to deeper, more charismatic lines. Coco Jones may have the raw technicals on her side, and “Good Morning” has so much chemistry, but Dixon’s cut just makes you feel the most inspired and moved out of everything here in our opinion. Yet it’s another category where most of the songs make sense as winners.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – JULY 23: Black Thought of The Roots performs on stage at Hampden Park National Stadium on July 23, 2023 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Roberto Ricciuti/Getty Images)
Baby Keem & Kendrick Lamar – “The Hillbillies”
Black Thought – “Love Letter”
Drake & 21 Savage – “Rich Flex”
Killer Mike ft. André 3000, Future & Eryn Allen Kane – “SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS”
Coi Leray – “Players”
What Will Win: All these tracks are so different that it makes predicting this category a bit tough. “Players” has the catchy pop appeal with a flip of a classic, “The Hillbillies” is a really fun back-and-forth, “Rich Flex” is the biggest hit here, and few would argue that anyone on this list is a technically better MC than Black Thought. But going back to the Grammys’ love of the midpoint, we think “SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS” is a favorite -– in every category it’s nominated in, for that matter. Performance-wise, all rappers here deliver distinct verse approaches, flows, and cadences, and by addressing many different styles of popular rap today, yesterday, and tomorrow, they crafted one of the most well-rounded rap songs in recent memory. Perhaps “Love Letter” wins because of its meaning to hip-hop’s 50 years, though.
What Should Win: For that very reason, we think that Killer Mike, André 3000, Future, and Eryn Allen Kane deserve the accolade the most when looking at it critically. At a very, very close second is “Love Letter,” as Black Thought’s rhymes and storytelling are hands-down the best pure hip-hop display here. As far as individual triumph, we think The Roots’ frontman takes the cake, but the collaboration on “SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS” encapsulates the most versatile and comprehensive collective performance. But we wish “Love Letter” would’ve received a Best Rap Song nomination as well due to its significance despite a complete lack of an instrumental.
Best R&B Song
Coco Jones performs at KOKO on December 04, 2023 in London, England. (Gus Stewart/Redferns/Getty Images)
Halle – “Angel”
Robert Glasper ft. SiR & Alex Isley – “Back To Love”
Coco Jones – “ICU”
Victoria Monét – “On My Mama”
SZA – “Snooze”
What Will Win: Again, we have a titanic SZA nomination whose popularity should make it an easy favorite. But there’s still steep competition here, namely “On My Mama.” It’s a catchy and powerful track with great instrumental embellishments that hit big by commercial metrics, and “ICU” is another example of that. “Back To Love” is played and composed really well, but it might fall victim to expectation given its more straightforward but compelling approach. Halle’s “Angel” has a fantastic build, albeit melodic retreading from verse to chorus, and a great vocal effort. Five great and worthy tracks all in all, but if they wanted to beat Victoria Monet, then they should’ve nominated a more evolutionary or passionate song than “Snooze” off of SOS.
What Should Win: Not only do we think “On My Mama” has the best chance to win, but it certainly should. Again, these are all of Grammy quality, and Coco Jones in particular impresses vocally on “ICU.” But Victoria Monet just made that classic Recording Academy combo: catchy, successful, meaningful, and widely appealing for good reason. You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn’t at least appreciate something about “On My Mama.” As one of the biggest hits off of JAGUAR II, we think it will probably be enough to blur SZA’s massive reach -– and deserves to do so. Don’t get it mixed up, though: another Solana win would make us very happy, too, and so would any of these other tracks.
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA: In this image released on November 10, 2023, Doja Cat kicks off The Scarlet Tour in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Dana Jacobs/Getty Images for Live Nation)
Killer Mike ft. André 3000, Future & Eryn Allen Kane – “SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS”
What Will Win: Once again, “SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS” has a little something for everyone, and that’s why we think it’ll take this Grammy along with Best Rap Performance. “Just Wanna Rock” is a great performance from Uzi, but in terms of songwriting and song structure, it’s bizarrely disjointed. Perhaps that interesting change of pace is what gets voters in its corner, but it’s a reach and should’ve landed in another category. “Barbie World” is too indebted to its sample to warrant an edge, and “Attention” and “Rich Flex” just don’t have the heft of Killer Mike and his collaborators’ song. It’s also too perfect of a halfway point between rap snobs and contemporary rap fans, and a trap-style beat doesn’t take away from its lyrical appeal.
What Should Win: Yeah, “SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS” is the easiest and most agreeable lock across any category, most likely. We wouldn’t be mad at “Attention,” as Doja Cat certainly deserves it, but no other song fills all the boxes as well as this MICHAEL single. On top of its lyricists’ excellent verses and Eryn Allen Kane’s soaring proclamations, the progressive beat makes it an undeniably well-crafted and compelling record. Speaking of progressive…
Best Progressive R&B Album
Janelle Monáe performs during Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2024 on December 31, 2023 in Hollywood, California. (Gilbert Flores/Penske Media via Getty Images)
6LACK – Since I Have A Lover
Diddy – The Love Album: Off The Grid
Terrace Martin & James Fauntleroy – Nova
Janelle Monáe – The Age Of Pleasure
SZA – SOS
What Will Win: SZA. It’s SZA. Jokes aside, almost all these albums are Grammy-worthy. Janelle Monae crafted one of the most simply and effectively pleasant (go figure) listening experiences of the year, Terrace Martin and James Fauntleroy might have the most instrumentally rich project here, and 6LACK can still pull off the woozy and cool-as-a-cucumber jams that he warrants acclaim for. But the commercial success, impact, and sheer popularity of SOS as a whole is a gargantuan shadow that looms large over the entire Recording Academy, let alone the R&B categories.
What Should Win: As we hinted at, most of these albums could win, and we’d say, “Cool. Good for them.” It would be wild to see Terrace Martin and James Fauntleroy take it amid a cast of juggernauts, at least for the music nerds out there. Still, this category is always quite controversial because of how vaguely the Recording Academy jumbles in a lot of Black artists that they don’t bother to properly categorize. Thus, it’s impossible to compare these to one another. But that’s a think piece for another time. For now, even we can’t deny that SZA was so dominant and so beloved for her genre blends and unique takes on R&B that this might go down as the least surprising award of the whole night… well, that and the other categories she’s nominated in, of course.
SUGAR LAND, TEXAS – NOVEMBER 11: Summer Walker performs on stage during the Honeyland Festival at Crown Festival Park on November 11, 2023 in Sugar Land, Texas. (Photo by Marcus Ingram/Getty Images)
Babyface – Girls Night Out
Coco Jones – What I Didn’t Tell You(Deluxe)
Emily King – Special Occasion
Victoria Monét – JAGUAR II
Summer Walker – CLEAR 2: SOFT LIFE EP
What Will Win: Without SZA here, this Grammy race is actually really tight -– maybe the tightest on this whole list. Summer Walker’s project was short, but she might be the biggest contemporary superstar here, whereas Babyface is a mainstay with legacy pull. Coco Jones and Victoria Monet are both nominated for Best New Artist, and Emily King aesthetically mixes in creative singer-songwriter elements. Looking at prominence, acclaim, and project quality, we narrowed it down to two. CLEAR 2: SOFT LIFE EP and JAGUAR II are neck-and-neck, and the cynical answer is the former based on its commercial visibility and name recognition.
What Should Win: However, what we hope for is that Victoria Monet takes it, as it’s the most cohesive, jam-packed, and consistent album here. Every other project either has weaker tracks that bring it down or is a little too repetitive in its approach to result in a unique album experience. JAGUAR II dances between pop catchiness, funk rhythms, emotional lyrics on family, and much more to make a stellar work that clearly caught the Grammys’ eye. With many nominations in other categories, we think Coco Jones and Monet have a really good chance of beating out the cynicism. Regardless, this is a fitting list with a lot of quality, so it’s not the most pressing prediction of the night.
Best Rap Album
Metro Boomin at Governors Ball on June 09, 2023 in New York City. (Taylor Hill/WireImage/Getty Images)
Drake & 21 Savage – Her Loss
Killer Mike – MICHAEL
Metro Boomin – HEROES & VILLAINS
Nas – King’s Disease III
Travis Scott – UTOPIA
What Will Win: One of the hardest categories to qualitatively narrow down is strangely easy to predict. Nas beat Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist’s Alfredo, D Smoke’s Bad Habits, Royce Da 5’9″‘s The Allegory, and Jay Electronica and Jay-Z’s A Written Testimony in 2021, a legacy lyrical pick that had never gotten an award before despite Esco’s magnitude. As such, we’d expect King’s Disease III to win, and this context snubs MICHAEL. UTOPIA wasn’t nominated in other categories, and again, Her Loss is a gamble considering Drake’s past. It’s also ironic that MICHAEL and UTOPIA, the two one-word titles, are the only albums that actually came out in 2023.
What Should Win: If we’re being honest, Nas’ album is the best out of these five when averaging it out: lyricism, song-for-song quality, production, etc. But it would be so awesome to see Metro Boomin earn the first-ever Best Rap Album Grammy for a producer. HEROES & VILLAINS certainly earns that praise: layered and pristine production, the featured guests all have a moment to stun, and bangers like “Superhero” and “Metro Spider” pair well with more low-key or emotive moments like “Trance” or “Feel The Fiyaaaah.” The fact it carried so much weight all throughout 2023 is downright impressive, too, and speaks to its resonance. While Nas might’ve made the better project all things considered, the St. Louis beatsmith has the chance to make history on “music’s biggest night,” one of the few outcomes that deserve the praise while also living up to that expectation.
(@OfficiallyQuise) January 10, 2022
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