Month: May 2024
Ice-T Clowns ‘Weirdo’ Lenny Kravitz Over 9-Year Celibacy Revelation
Uproxx Music 20: Josh Levi Makes Love Sound Like The Feeling Of A Lifetime On ‘Something More’
Josh Levi knows what it means to be in the spotlight. A entertainment career that brought him to Friday Night Lights, X-Factor, and more, now has him in front of a mic full time as a young R&B singer to reckon with. At just 25 years old, the Houston native is just a little over a year removed from his last project Disc Two (Scratched Up). With 12 songs to its name, Disc Two (Scratched Up) — highlighted by the viral “Birthday Dance” — is as complete of a body of work that we’ve received from Levi. It soars high with tales of love, digs deep for moments of heartbreak, and captivates for moments, big and small, that exist in between.
Today, Levi launches into a new era with the release of “Something More.” The passionate single is supported by minimal production which allows Levi’s impressive to run free and even show off a flash of falsetto here and there. The song itself makes love sound like the feeling of a lifetime. Levi has fallen for the woman in question on the song, but she’s yet to jump off the cliff and into his awaiting warms. With lyrics like “I’ll follow you / Girl, would you take me with ya?” and “Baby, tell me how deep / Are you willing to dive / Say it with your body, baby / You don’t gotta tell me twice,” Levi makes a convincing case on why his soon-to-be companion should be by his side for the foreseeable future.
Together with the arrival of his new single, Levi also answered a few questions as a part of our Uproxx Music 20 series that aims to showcase rising artists’ inspirations, influences, and aspirations. Scroll down and learn a new thing or two about the Houston singer.
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What is your earliest memory of music?
I would say the first memory I have is singing at my sister’s kindergarten graduation. I was five years old and I wrote my first song for her that day and I remember my family all being there and getting a kick out it!
Who inspired you to take music seriously?
I grew up singing in church so I heard amazing voices all the time but I would say Michael Jackson and Brandy were some of the artists that made me fall in love with music and wanna start making my own sound.
Do you know how to play an instrument? If so, which one? If not, which instrument do you want to learn how to play?
I play piano, and a little bit of guitar but I would love to master electric guitar. It’s my favorite instrument and i’ve always wanted to be able to shred on stage!
What was your first job?
My first job funny enough was acting on Friday Night Lights when i was 9! It was my first time working and getting paid and it just so happened to be something super cool like that show! I remember my first day on set I was feelin myself and thought I could do something like that forever haha.
What is your most prized possession?
I would say my family. Nothing is more important to me than my family, I feel like it’s my most sacred, valuable thing in my life.
What is your biggest fear?
Losing someone I love, or failing. Those things both haunt me. I also have a phobia of birds unfortunately.
Who is on your R&B Mt. Rushmore?
Michael Jackson, Brandy, Jazmine Sullivan, and Boyz II Men. There’s Usher, Chris Brown, Joe, and Aaliyah too.
You get 24 hours to yourself to do anything you want, with unlimited resources: What are you doing? And spare no details!
I’m in my bed watching one of the million different shows I watch with all the lights off and some salmon and rice next to my bed with a ginger beer!
What are your three most used emojis?
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What’s a feature you need to secure before you die?
If you could appear in a future season of a current TV show, which one would it be and why?
Stranger Things, Bridgerton, The Bear, The White Lotus, The Chosen, Abbott Elementary, Only Murders In The Building, Wednesday.
Which celebrity do you admire or respect for their personality and why?
I really love Prince and Whitney Houston’s personalities. I admire their candor and how unfiltered they were haha. I dream to be as unapologetic about how I feel and what’s on my mind and then on stage be this incredible talent that people revere.
Share your opinion on something no one could ever change your mind about.
Fries are great with mayo and it just is what it is!
What is the best song you’ve ever heard in your life and what do you love about it?
That’s such a crazy question! in my life?? There’s so many! First one that comes to mind is “Human Nature” by Michael Jackson. I think that song is perfectly written, perfectly composed, perfect everything. Everyday I wish I wrote that song.
What’s your favorite city in the world to perform, and what’s a city you’re excited to perform in for the first time?
One of my favorite ever shows was in London! I had my first headline show there last year and it was sold out and the energy was just electric, I wasn’t expecting it! I also really love performing in New York! I haven’t done a show in Paris yet or Brazil, I’ve been wanting to go there for a long time.
You are throwing a music festival. Give us the dream lineup of 5 artists that will perform with you and the location where it would be held.
It would be in Houston, Texas and I would say Beyonce, Drake, Chris Brown, SZA, and Meg Thee Stallion.
What would you be doing now if it weren’t for music?
I’d probably still be doing something creative or in culinary or in sports! Both my siblings were athletes and I’m really competitive so I’d be somewhere in that world.
If you could see five years into the future or go five years into the past, which one would you pick and why?
I would go five years into the past just to appreciate every moment I experienced more and learn the things I learned all over again. I’ve grown so much in the last couple of years so it’s been a beautiful journey of growth and healing. I’m not in a rush to see the future haha, I like to let God just do His thing and reveal things to me when He wants to!
What’s one piece of advice you’d go back in time to give to your 18-year-old self?
Trust in God’s timing!!! Don’t lose hope if things aren’t panning out at the exact time that you want because it will all align perfectly!
It’s 2050. The world hasn’t ended, and people are still listening to your music. How would you like it to be remembered?
I would love for it to be remembered as a source of healing for people that needed to feel. and I would love for my music to be remembered for it’s composition, the harmonies, the details that went into it.
Travis Kelce Visits The White House With Taylor Swift Nowhere In Sight
It seems like Travis Kelce is going solo to the Chiefs’ White House bash. In a video that Kansas City just uploaded, he may be seen boarding a bus to 1600 Penn Avenue without seeing Taylor Swift. Joe Biden was scheduled to recognize Kelce, Patrick Mahomes, and the other 2023 Super Bowl victors this afternoon. Many had questioned if the K.C. tight end’s well-known girlfriend would attend. Ultimately, she’s taking a little vacation from her “Eras” tour dates, and according to White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, every Taylor Swift fan in the office was definitely hoping to see her. However, it looks like the pop sensation is sticking overseas for the time being.
Travis Kelce was photographed traveling solo dolo as he boarded the team’s vehicle. The tight end was looking good in a tan suit and black tie. Of course, there’s still a chance that Taylor might make it there. Since none of the Chiefs seemed to be traveling with their significant others on the bus earlier on Friday, it is absolutely feasible that she took a different route to go to the President’s residence.
Read More: Ice Spice Shares New Photo Hanging Out With Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce
Travis Kelce Visits White House Without Taylor Swift
Joe Biden, in a moment of honor, will present the Chiefs with an award for their thrilling overtime victory against the San Francisco 49ers during the Super Bowl in Las Vegas in February. The head coach, Andy Reid, and the star players, Mahomes and Travis Kelce, all looked dapper in their suits. As they disembarked from the aircraft, Rashee Rice and Wanya Morris, who had also faced legal issues this summer, shared a photo together. This event marks another instance of the long-standing tradition of professional and collegiate championship sports teams being welcomed to the White House.
In the last five years, the Chiefs have won three Super Bowls. Travis Kelce and company defeated Jill Biden’s favorite football club, the Philadelphia Eagles, in 2023. She went to the game and was raised close to Philadelphia. Overall it’s par the course for the Super Bowl Champions ot make a White House Visit. All in all, it’s not surprising Taylor Swift did not show up. She would have taken away the shine form the deserving guests.
Read More: Travis Kelce Booed During Mavericks-Timberwolves While Patrick Mahomes Gets Standing Ovation
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Gunna Subtly Calls For Young Thug’s Release Amid RICO Trial
Amid Young Thug’s highly publicized YSL RICO trial, social media users have seen him receive a great deal of support from both fans and peers. He’s been behind bars for over two years now, facing accusations that his label Young Stoner Life is actually a “violent street gang.” It’s rumored that the trial could continue well into 2027, despite his team’s attempts to speed it up last year. He was arrested in May of 2022 alongside several other alleged YSL members, including Gunna.
Gunna was released in December of the same year after accepting a plea deal, which sparked speculation that he turned his back on his co-defendants in exchange for his own freedom. He denies this, though critics continue to have their suspicions. Regardless, he frequently shows love to Young Thug at his shows and online, prompting mixed reactions from followers.
Read More: Gunna’s New Look Has Fans Declaring An All-Time Glow Up
Gunna Posts Photo Of Child Wearing A “Free Thugga” T-Shirt
Today, for example, he took to Instagram to share a new photo dump with fans. It features various shots from his “Bittersweet” tour, workout videos, and more. He also included a photo of a small child rocking a t-shirt reading “Free Thugga.” Clearly, Gunna still has a lot of love for his former collaborator, despite whatever critics may have to say about it. After all, during an interview with XXL last month, he claimed that their friendship hasn’t changed amid the rampant “snitching” rumors.
“It’s the same,” he said of his close bond with Young Thug. “It’s love, always. Our relationship is our relationship… I definitely feel like everybody’s been misled.” What do you think of Gunna showing love to Young Thug on Instagram despite snitching rumors? Are you surprised or not? What about Young Thug’s ongoing RICO trial? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.
Read More: Kanye West, Travis Scott, Gunna, & More Were The Victims Of Massive Song Leak
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Mike Tyson & Jake Paul Fight Postponed Due To Former’s Health
Most Valuable Productions announced on Friday afternoon (May 31) that the scheduled boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson for July 20 has been pushed back. “The upcoming highly anticipated boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson will unfortunately be postponed,” they relayed on social media. “During a follow up consultation on Thursday with medical professionals on his recent ulcer flare up, the recommendation is for Mike Tyson to do minimal to light training over the next few weeks and then return to full training with no limitations.
“Both Mike and Jake are in agreement that it is only fair to ensure that both athletes have equal training time to prepare for this important match and are able to compete at the highest level,” the statement continued. “The health and well-being of athletes is our top priority. We fully support Mike in taking the necessary time to allow him to perform at the level he expects of himself. Mike is expected to return to his full training schedule in the coming weeks. [He] is eager to get back in the ring. MVP anticipates rescheduling the match to later this year at AT&T Stadium. We look forward to an exciting and well-prepared contest between these two exceptional athletes. The new date of the fight will be announced by next Friday, June 7th.”
Read More: Cam’ron & Mase Reveal Why They Turned Down Mike Tyson’s Walk-Out Offer For Jake Paul Fight
Postponement Announcement For Mike Tyson & Jake Paul’s Boxing Match
“I want to thank my fans around the world for their support and understanding during this time,” Mike Tyson stated. “Unfortunately, due to my ulcer flareup, I have been advised by my doctor to lighten my training for a few weeks to rest and recover. My body is in better overall shape than it has been since the 1990s. I will be back to my full training schedule soon. Jake Paul, this may have bought you some time. But in the end you will still be knocked out and out of boxing for good. I appreciate everyone’s patience and can’t wait to deliver an unforgettable performance later this year.”
“I fully support postponing the event so Mike Tyson has no excuses come fight night,” Jake Paul remarked. “My fans know I don’t want to face Iron Mike at anything but his best. But let there be no mistake. When he steps into the ring with me, I will be ready to claim my W with a sensational finish. Paul versus Tyson will be one for the ages, and I promise to bring my best for this once-in-a-lifetime matchup.”
Read More: Lil Wayne Explains His Mike Tyson & Jake Paul Fight Prediction
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LUCKI Leaves Off Second 2-Pack, “2 Faced, Pt. 2”, Ahead Of Rumored Album
LUCKI has made a living off his signature mumbly and druggy flows over slow-mo trap rap beats. Today, the Chicago, Illinois-bred artist is delivering more of the same on his newest set of tracks. Just a few months ago, he put out a two-pack called 2 Faced back in January for his rumored album GEMIN! According to Genius, the project is supposed to be out on June 14, and it would follow up his 2023 tape s*x m*ney dr*gs. Now, fast forward to today and LUCKI has more to offer in the form of 2 Faced, Pt. 2.
This time around LUCKI is bossing up on both cuts, which are “Heavy On My Heart”, and “Courtesy Of”. On the first track, the veteran rapper is proving an ex wrong by locking and making as much bread as possible. “Really a rapper, but I’m with the wolves, ’cause I know they’ve got dreams too / We had fell out, the whole world seen it, they had told me to leave you / Went back home when I got rich, and they said I needed you“.
Read More: Dennis Schröder Makes Official Professional Soccer Debut In Germany
Listen To 2 Faced, Pt. 2 By LUCKI
Then, on “Courtesy Of”, LUCKI is straight up flexing on the haters and possibly his contemporaries. “N****s first round bust down, ain’t even wanna play / I got money in a vault, I got money just to play / We’ll play you like you soft if you ain’t slimier than me“. On 2 Faced, LUCKI divulged on being a baller on “PAIDNFULL”, whereas “COLORFUL DRUGS” was more of a trippy vibe than anything else. Overall, these tracks are fine, but nothing too new.
What are your thoughts on 2 Faced, Pt. 2 by LUCKI? Is this the better set of promotional tracks from his upcoming album, why or why not? Does this have you interested in what is to come on the LP? What was your favorite track out of the two and why? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding LUCKI. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the music world.
Quotable Lyrics From “Heavy On My Heart”:
Ski right back, I’m on my way, ayy, ha-ha
I’m so outta space, all my meetings gotta be at three A.M
Same n**** slime me out be the same n**** that lie for me
I’ma go M.I.A., I’ma come right back with more racks for me
I can’t feel my face, I can’t feel my face, no gravity
Ho ain’t in my way, but there’s few that’s on a ride with me
Read More: Kehlani Will Do Anything To Be “Next 2 U” On Latest “CRASH” Single
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Ice T Responds To Donald Trump’s Conviction, Trolls Angry Supporters
Hip-hop is reacting swiftly to Donald Trump’s conviction in his hush money case, and we’re sure his place in rap is pretty staunchly criticized… right? Well, anyway, at least Ice-T kept it short and simple with his response to the guilty verdict, and he also took some time to respond to some angry supporters of No. 45 who took issue with his jest. First, he posted a picture of a jail with one of the watch towers labeled as “Trump Tower” with the caption “The Internet is undefeated. But I doubt he ever does a day inside… Cold Game.” “Damn Ice. Looks like you picked your side,” one fan replied.
“I NEVER EVER liked dude… Criminals can spot Criminals,” Ice-T responded. “Has Ice t been to epstien [sic] island? [thinking face emoji],” another user clapped back, seemingly insinuating that his dislike of Donald Trump indicates his allegiance to the Illuminati or something like that. Conspiracy heads can fix that in the comments section down below. “Nope.. But I’ve been to your Mother’s house,” the Newark native retorted. It’s similar to how 50 Cent chose to clown Trump supporters for their anger over the verdict.
Read More: Ice-T Says He Could “Act Forever” With A.I. Technology
Ice-T Trolls Trump & His Fans
But we know that Ice-T is prone to giving out hot takes on pretty much anything, especially the massive rap beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake that recently went down. “I’m sorry if I’m not interested in current Rap Beef or random Male Gossip…” he tweeted. “I’m a HUSTLER, I’m only focused on the Bag [money bag emoji].” Furthermore, this take surprised some fans, especially, considering the rapper and actor’s rap feuds with the likes of LL Cool J. But maturity makes everything 20/20 in hindsight, and we doubt that we won’t come to understand this perspective in our older age.
Meanwhile, Ice-T’s take on Lenny Kravitz’s celibacy also garnered backlash online. “Hey…If you’re a guy and you can voluntarily go 9yrs without sex… you’re following the wrong page,” he tweeted recently. “s**t’s weird to me. I love to f**k… A lot.” Maybe the Law & Order: SVU staple should’ve kept that last one in the drafts…
Read More: Ice-T Advocates For On-Screen Romance In “Law & Order: SVU”
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Giancarlo Stanton Net Worth 2024: What Is The MLB Baseball Star Worth?
Giancarlo Stanton has made a name for himself as one of the most formidable power hitters in Major League Baseball. With a career highlighted by towering home runs and record-breaking achievements, Stanton’s influence on the sport is undeniable. His financial success mirrors his athletic prowess, underscoring a career that has consistently pushed boundaries. As of 2024, his net worth stands at an impressive $90 million, according to CelebrityNetWorth. This substantial figure reflects not only his lucrative contracts and endorsements but also his lasting impact on baseball.
The Rise Of A Star
Born on November 8, 1989, in Panorama City, California, Giancarlo Stanton—originally named Giancarlo Cruz Michael Stanton—showed an early aptitude for sports. His athletic prowess was evident during his high school years at Notre Dame High School, where he excelled in baseball, football, and basketball. Despite being recruited by several colleges, Stanton chose to forgo a football scholarship to the University of Southern California, focusing instead on a career in Major League Baseball.
In 2007, Stanton was selected by the Florida Marlins (now Miami Marlins) in the second round of the MLB draft. His professional debut in 2010 quickly revealed his potential as a powerful hitter. Over the next few years, Stanton’s home run-hitting capabilities earned him widespread recognition, culminating in his leading the National League in home runs in 2014.
Record-Breaking Contracts & Earnings
Stanton’s financial ascent in the MLB reached new heights with his record-breaking 13-year, $325 million contract with the Marlins in 2014. This deal, the largest in sports history then, significantly boosted his earnings and set a new standard for player contracts. The contract reflected his on-field performance and his marketability as a star athlete. In 2017, Stanton was traded to the New York Yankees. It further solidified his financial standing. The Yankees, known for their deep pockets and history of acquiring top talent, provided Stanton with a larger platform and increased endorsement opportunities. Despite occasional injuries, his performance with the Yankees continued to showcase his exceptional skills and contributed to his growing wealth.
Off-Field Ventures & Endorsements
Stanton’s financial success isn’t confined to his MLB earnings. His marketability has attracted numerous endorsement deals, adding significantly to his net worth. Brands like Nike, Rawlings, and MuscleTech have partnered with Stanton, leveraging his athletic image and broad appeal. These endorsements supplement his income and enhance his public profile, making him a familiar face both on and off the field.
Additionally, Stanton has shown interest in various business ventures and philanthropic efforts. His involvement in community outreach programs, particularly those focused on youth sports and education, underscores his commitment to giving back. While these activities do not directly contribute to his net worth, they enhance his reputation and influence within and beyond the sports community.
Looking ahead, Stanton’s future in baseball remains promising. Despite facing challenges such as injuries, his dedication to the sport and his resilience continue to drive his performance. Whether on the field with the Yankees or through his various off-field endeavors, Stanton’s influence in the world of sports and beyond is likely to grow, further solidifying his status as one of baseball’s most prominent figures.
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Anthony Edwards Led The Timberwolves In An Effort To Boycott “Inside The NBA”
The Minnesota Timberwolves were eliminated from the playoffs by the Dallas Mavericks last night. Young star Anthony Edwards has gotten a lot of praise this postseason, but ultimately, he and his team fell short. Throughout the last two series, the Timberwolves big man duo has been under a ton of scrutiny. Some of the criticism has been warranted, citing their play at times. Nevertheless, some of the critics seem to come from personal beef. Draymond Green, who had been featured on Inside the NBA, had a personal vendetta against DPOY Rudy Gobert.
Karl-Anthony Towns was also joked about and harshly criticized by Draymond and the Inside The NBA crew. Now, reportedly, Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves decided to boycott doing interviews with the beloved basketball show. The gesture is a form of solidarity with Gobert and Karl-Anthony Town. According to The Athletic, Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves declined to take part in “Inside The NBA” interviews in order to show support for Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert in the face of criticism from Draymond Green.
Read More: Anthony Edwards Wants The Michael Jordan Comparisons To Stop
Anthony Edwards And The Timberwolves Boycotted “Inside The NBA”
According to club sources who spoke with The Athletic, Edwards was surrounded by a close-knit group of players who determined as a unit that no player would be featured on TNT’s “Inside the NBA” postgame program following their victory in Game 4 in Dallas. The choice was made as a show of support for Gobert and Towns after panelist and Golden State forward Draymond Green mocked and personally attacked them. Draymond had some words for Anthony Edwards himself as well. he disparaged the star guard after his comments after game 1.
Fans have decried the addition of Green because it seemed like all he wants to do is bring up personal beef and push his own agenda. Overall, Minnesota is led by a young, outspoken star who decided to show up for his teammates. Despite their inconsistent play, it seems like the Wolves are a close-knit team. Edwards vowed that they would be back next year. All in all, he will be thinking about the loss to the Mavs all off-season for fuel.
Read More: Anthony Edwards Excited To Play With Kevin Durant On Team USA After Sweeping Him
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