DJ Akademiks Argues Drake’s Old Music Is Carrying His Success

Drake can go on hiatus for three years only to still sell out a tour on the other side of the world, and it looks like his streaming numbers also reflect that. Moreover, DJ Akademiks recently made the claim that the Toronto superstar’s dominance in the music industry today mostly owes its success to the classic material he released six-plus years ago. “Also, he leveraged the fact that they’re eating so much off of his back catalog,” Ak expressed on stream. “That dropping frequently helps the back catalog. And, by the way, 80 to 85 percent of Drake’s current streams is from albums that dropped over six years ago. And I’m being very fair here. I love Drake, that’s my favorite artist. Bro, the labels look at him different.”

What’s most curious about DJ Akademiks’ assessment of Drake’s numbers is not only that he’s probably correct, but that this is likely true of most massive artists at his level of reach, popularity, acclaim, and most importantly, legacy. Kendrick Lamar can probably say the same thing. good kid, m.A.A.d. city is still on the Billboard 200. But we know that K.Dot sales are a dicey topic for Drizzy these days…

Read More: Joe Rogan Wants To Help Drake Amid Betting Struggles

DJ Akademiks Comments On Drake’s Streaming Success

Of course, we’re talking about Drake’s legal petition against Universal Music Group and Spotify for allegedly inflating the commercial success of “Not Like Us.” There are a whole lot of angles to consider when it comes to this story, especially when stacked up against the almost simultaneous release of Kendrick Lamar’s new album GNX. We definitely haven’t heard the end of it, and we wouldn’t express shock if this extended the 2024 rap beef into all of 2025. Still, they’re not really connected beyond “Not Like Us” being at the center, as the legal petition fries bigger fish.

Regardless, it still recontextualizes both Drake and Kendrick Lamar’s commercial accomplishments. In this case, this doesn’t really have anything to do with the legal petition. Yet DJ Akademiks does bring up a reality that could one day inform the OVO mogul’s future at Universal Music Group – if they stay buddy-buddy afterwards, that is.

Read More: Suki Baby From Drake & 21 Savage’s “Her Loss” Cover Praises Kendrick Lamar’s New Album

[via]

The post DJ Akademiks Argues Drake’s Old Music Is Carrying His Success appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Jordan Tatum 3 “Sidewalk Chalk” Inspired By Deuce Tatum

The Jordan Tatum 3 “Sidewalk Chalk” celebrates Jayson Tatum’s son, Deuce, and his love for chalk art. This vibrant colorway features pastel hues of blue, pink, and beige, resembling the playful essence of sidewalk chalk drawings. The ripstop upper provides durability, while its smooth overlays create a textured contrast. Black accents, including the laces and tongue, add depth to the design. Moreover, subtle pops of color run throughout the sneaker, giving it a youthful and energetic vibe. The midsole combines off-white and beige tones, grounding the pastel hues.

Its pink outsole provides a soft yet striking finish. A bold Jumpman logo on the lateral side ties the design together, emphasizing its basketball roots. This colorway embodies creativity, much like chalk art on concrete canvases. It offers both a tribute to Tatum’s son and a unique look for fans. Perfect for on and off the court, the Jordan Tatum 3 “Sidewalk Chalk” blends performance with personality. With its vibrant palette and storytelling inspiration, this sneaker is bound to catch attention. Be on the lookout for more details on this special release, which pays homage to family and creativity.

Read More: Release Date Set For Air Jordan 12 x SoleFly Cafecito”

“Sidewalk Chalk” Jordan Tatum 3

Jordan Tatum 3
Image via Nike

The sneakers feature a light orange sole and a similarly light-colored midsole. Further, the uppers of the sneakers are comprised of multiple pastel colors featuring green, orange, blue, and purple. Also, a small black Jumpman is near the toebox. Finally, JT branding is on the tongues and heels.

More Photos

Sneaker News reports that the Jordan Tatum 3 “Sidewalk Chalk” will be released sometime in December. Also, the retail price of the sneakers will be $125 when they drop. Furthermore, this colorway highlights Jayson Tatum’s playful side and family connection. Its pastel palette brings a fresh, creative touch to the silhouette. Moreover, the unique inspiration behind the design makes it stand out. With December just around the corner, excitement is building among fans.

Sidewalk Chalk
Image via Nike
Jordan Tatum 3
Image via Nike

Read More: Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro Returns In Iconic “Christmas” Look

[Via]

The post Jordan Tatum 3 “Sidewalk Chalk” Inspired By Deuce Tatum appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Joe Rogan Wants To Help Drake Amid Betting Struggles

It goes without saying that it’s been a rough month for Drake. For one, Kendrick Lamar unleashed his new album GNX by surprise last week, which has been a major success. This has unsurprisingly resulted in Drake getting clowned by countless social media users, who argue that this just added to Kendrick’s long list of wins. On top of this, he recently decided to take legal action against Universal Music Group (UMG) over Kendrick’s hit diss track “Not Like Us.” He accuses UMG and Spotify of artificially boosting the song and alleges that the label could have prevented it from dropping. This has similarly earned him a great deal of backlash online, from those who feel like this makes him look weak or jealous of Kendrick’s accomplishments.

These aren’t the only Ls Drake has taken as of late, however. He also has a mixed track record when it comes to betting on fights. A few weeks ago, for example, he lost a whopping $355K after betting on Mike Tyson to beat Jake Paul. Shortly after, he won almost $500K after betting on Jon Jones to beat Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. This seemingly broke the “Drake curse,” but regardless, he has someone in the industry who wants to help him out.

Read More: Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” Sees Huge Sales Increase Amid Drake & UMG’s Legal Battle

Joe Rogan Interested In Lifting “Drake Curse”

This person is Joe Rogan, who recently said he wants to help Drake with his bets on his podcast. “I want to get a hold of Drake and talk to him about his fight picks,” Rogan told Scott Storch during an interview. “That motherf*cker loses more money on fights… I want to call him up.”

Storch proceeded to bring up Drake’s successful Jon Jones bet. Rogan dismissed it, however, arguing that it was too easy. “That’s what I would have thought [would happen] anyway,” he said. “That’s an easy bet.” At the time of writing, it remains unclear whether or not Drizzy has any interest in taking Rogan up on his offer.

Read More: DJ Akademiks Blames Drake For Boosting Kendrick Lamar’s “GNX” Sales

[Via]

The post Joe Rogan Wants To Help Drake Amid Betting Struggles appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Wendy Williams’ Guardian Accused Of Mishandling $400K For Controversial Documentary

Wendy Williams’ court-appointed legal guardian, Sabrina Morrissey, is reportedly in a legal battle with the production companies behind the Where Is Wendy Williams? documentary, according to a Tuesday (November 26) report from The Sun. For those unaware, the TV host was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia and aphasia in May of 2023, about a year after a guardianship started to manage her health and finances. While the February 2024 documentary – which Lifetime, A&E, and others produced – intended to portray a comeback through a podcast, it revealed a lot of controversies around her mental state and who was really looking out for her.

Furthermore, Sabrina Morrissey sued Lifetime, A&E Television Networks, Entertainment One, and Creature Films for this “blatant exploitation” of Wendy Williams’ struggles, per court documents reportedly obtained by The Hollywood Reporter. Morrissey’s legal team alleged that Williams’ “permanent incapacitation” means that she could not consent to the series. In addition, they accused producers of tricking her into thinking this would be a celebratory and flattering depiction. “She thought we were focusing on the comeback of her career,” Williams’ longtime publicist Shawn Zanotti told NBC News. “Wendy would be mortified if she saw how she was portrayed.”

Read More: Wendy Williams Breaks Her Silence On “Horrific” Diddy Allegations

Wendy Williams At SiriusXM

Wendy Williams Guardian Lawsuit Documentary Entertainment News
NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 06: Wendy Williams visits SiriusXM Studios on September 6, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images)

However, the defendants accused Wendy Williams’ legal guardian of lying about some facts and misusing the money they paid Williams for her participation in the documentary. Per The U.S. Sun‘s report, the networks claim Sabrina Morrissey attempts to eliminate critical views of her “controversial and failed administration.” As for why, they alleged that Morrissey feels embarrassed by what the documentary says about her guardianship. In addition, the networks defended their “honest and unfiltered window” into her life and said that they paid her team much more than what Morrissey claimed.

Not only that, but the networks also pointed to Wendy Williams’ family, indicating that they approved the documentary and also participated in promo interviews for it. An appellate judge denied Sabrina Morrissey the chance to block the doc’s release, and the defendants accused her of focusing on her own reputation. Both sides seek damages and attorney’s fees. At the moment, no one knows how this legal dispute could resolve, or what it would cost Wendy.

Read More: Wendy Williams Spotted In Public For First Time In Over A Year

[via]

The post Wendy Williams’ Guardian Accused Of Mishandling $400K For Controversial Documentary appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Release Date Set For Air Jordan 12 x SoleFly “Cafecito”

New details have emerged about the highly anticipated Air Jordan 12 collaboration with SoleFly. This latest iteration of the iconic silhouette blends white, brown, and cream tones, delivering a sleek and modern design. The sophisticated colorway adds a refined touch to the classic Air Jordan 12, making it a standout release. SoleFly’s unique take incorporates premium materials and thoughtful detailing, enhancing both style and quality. The earthy tones create a polished and versatile look, perfect for collectors and casual wearers alike.

As with past SoleFly collaborations, this Air Jordan 12 is expected to be highly limited and in high demand. Sneaker enthusiasts are gearing up for what promises to be one of the year’s most exciting drops. The combination of SoleFly’s craftsmanship and the timeless Air Jordan 12 design makes this release a must-have for sneaker fans. Whether you’re drawn to its unique color palette or its exclusivity, this collaboration is bound to make waves. Stay tuned for more updates on the release date and availability of this elegant and sought-after sneaker.

Read More: Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro Returns In Iconic “Christmas” Look

“Cafecito” SoleFly x Air Jordan 12

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by SOLEFLY (@solefly)

The sneakers showcase a brown rubber outsole paired with a matching brown midsole. Also, the uppers are constructed from white leather, accented by brown textured leather overlays. Further, white laces and coordinating lace locks tie the design together. Furthermore, dark Jordan logos are prominently featured on the tongues and heels.

Sneaker Bar Detroit reports that the Air Jordan 12 x SoleFly will be released on December 6th but you can get local early access on December 5th. Also, the retail price of the sneakers will be $225 when they are released. Moreover, this collaboration promises to attract significant attention due to its elegant design. With SoleFly’s history of exclusive drops, anticipation is already building among collectors. Additionally, the early access opportunity adds a sense of urgency for fans eager to secure their pair. This release is sure to spark excitement across the sneaker community.

Read More: Nike LeBron 22 To Feature Festive “Christmas” Colorway

[Via]

The post Release Date Set For Air Jordan 12 x SoleFly “Cafecito” appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Chloe Bailey Fires Back At People Accusing Her Of ‘Shooting My Shot’ With ‘Married Man’ Kendrick Lamar

Chloe Bailey 2024 BET Awards (1024x437)
Getty Image

Like everyone else, Chloe Bailey is enjoying Kendrick Lamar‘s new album, GNX.

“Who has listened to Kendrick’s album?” she asked her fans on a recent Instagram livestream. “I have had it on repeat [since] it’s been out.” After making it clear that she “did not just hop on the Kendrick train now,” the “Have Mercy” singer shared that about eight years ago, she had “a whole Kendrick phase. Like, I’ve had phases, right? Like, I had a James Fauntleroy phase. I had a Frank Ocean phase. I had a [FKA] Twigs phase. I had a Tune-Yards phase. I had a Kendrick Lamar phase, and I was convinced I was going to be with him.”

Bailey was clearly expressing how much she respects Lamar as an artist, and that she had an innocent crush on him when she was younger. But some internet weirdos misinterpreted her comments and accused her of flirting with a married man, to the point where she did another livestream to defend herself.

“I’m not shooting my shot at a married man. I was talking about years and years ago. I was just sharing how I was a die-hard Kendrick fan, like from day one,” she said. “Everybody just doesn’t… Like happiness, everybody has to take everything so seriously. I would never. Honestly, I don’t let stuff like that get to me anymore, I think it’s funny now how people will take things out of context… I am innocent.”

You can watch Bailey’s livestream here.

Russ Gets Nostalgic And Thankful On Soulful “SSX Tricky”

Russ has been a fixture in the hip-hop scene since the early 2010s. Since debuting with his album Velvet in 2011, he has released fifteen more projects, his most recent being SANTIAGO last August. Though his time in the mainstream was short, Russ has built an unwavering fanbase through the years. One so consistent that he can tour regularly and put out new music multiple times a year. “SSX Tricky” is his latest track, taking its name from the PS2/Xbox video game. The accompanying video shows Russ playing the iconic game on the couch in what is meant to be a basement while he raps the lyrics.

The track feels nostalgic, with a beat (produced by DVNT) that features a prominent slowed-down soul sample. On the hook, Russ talks about being a 90s baby, giving a shoutout to Trish Stratus, who he cites as his first crush. From there, he talks about his childhood, before pivoting into more modern subjects. He also throws in a Demon Slayer reference for good measure. The second verse is Russ reflecting on his career and some of his biggest accomplishments so far, like performing at Barclays Center. He does some flexing, and ensures he’s going to “talk game until he’s old, Hubie Brown” (the legendary 91-year-old Hall of Fame basketball coach and broadcaster who recently announced plans to retire from ESPN at the end of this NBA season). Overall, the track is a solid thank you to his fans and a reiteration that Russ doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. Check out “SSX Tricky” below.

Read More: Suki Baby From Drake & 21 Savage’s “Her Loss” Cover Praises Kendrick Lamar’s New Album

Russ – “SSX Tricky”

Quotable Lyrics:

Gettin’ mat burned from wrestling with my fears (Yeah)
Saw this all comin’ back when Mom shopped at Sears (I saw it)
Lapped a lot of peers, yeah, I’m showboatin’ (I am)
It’s been a fight though, let me talk to you like Joе Rogan (Yeah)
This Diesel bеlt is holdin’ up these Jacquemus shorts
She say, “Okay, see you in five”, but I’m not Lu Dort
Take the boat from Grand Tremezzo to Belaggio
And order the caprese and carpaccio
I been fighting demons like I’m Tanjiro (Yeah)

[Via]

The post Russ Gets Nostalgic And Thankful On Soulful “SSX Tricky” appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

“The Joe Budden Podcast” Debates If Ice Cube Needs To Stay Out Of Kendrick Lamar’s Way

During a recent episode of his podcast, Joe Budden shared his take on some of the lyrics from Kendrick Lamar’s new album, GNX. In the song “wacced out murals,” for example, Budden speculates that the Compton rapper indirectly calls out several of his peers. He believes this could include Ice Cube, who dropped on the same day as Kendrick. Ice Cube also recently claimed he was “Kendrick before Kendrick.”

This sparked a debate between Budden and one of his co-hosts, Marc Lamont Hill. “I think it’s true, sh*t, Cube is that dude,” Hill said, earning a big reaction from Budden. “You don’t step on my spotlight. Not me, but if I’m Kendrick? N***a, mute it up. Mute it up. Who gives a f*ck what your opinion is? Shut up, silent solidarity time. Red and blue in the air, West Coast against all.” Hill proceeded to push back, arguing that Ice Cube could feel like he hasn’t gotten the recognition he deserves for his contributions to West Coast hip-hop.

Read More: Dennis Graham Goes After Joe Budden For Mercilessly Trashing Drake

Joe Budden & Marc Lamont Hill Disagree About Ice Cube

“I think a lot of times with Kendrick, Snoop gets the love, Dre gets the love. I think sometimes Cube feels boxed out of that, he feels like he don’t get the mention when he put the West Coast on his back for a long time,” he explained. Budden then insisted that this doesn’t matter, claiming that Kendrick is on some “anybody can get it type sh*t.”

During a conversation with SiriusXM’s Rock the Bells Radio earlier this month, Ice Cube discussed his lyrics about being Kendrick before Kendrick, revealing exactly what he meant. “Just, you know, a provocative artist,” he said at the time. “An artist that said what I felt, put it all out there, very critical of the system and the government and what we have to go through as Black people in this country. I think he’s the same kind of artist: a thought-provoking artist. I was that before he was.”

Read More: Joe Budden Explains Why Kanye West, Jay-Z & Rihanna Have More “Leverage” Than Drake, Lil Wayne & Nicki Minaj

[Via]

The post “The Joe Budden Podcast” Debates If Ice Cube Needs To Stay Out Of Kendrick Lamar’s Way appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro Returns In Iconic “Christmas” Look

The Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro, celebrated for its high-performance capabilities and sleek design, continues to stand out as a favorite among basketball fans. Now that official photos have surfaced, excitement is reaching new heights for the upcoming “Christmas” colorway. This much-anticipated release showcases an all-red design, offering a bold and striking look that’s guaranteed to turn heads. The vibrant red hue commands attention, ensuring the shoe makes a statement both on and off the court. Known for its unmatched support and responsiveness, the Kobe 9 Elite Protro remains a top choice for serious athletes.

Engineered for peak performance, this sneaker delivers comfort and stability during even the most intense gameplay. The “Christmas” colorway injects a fresh and festive aesthetic into the iconic Kobe 9 Elite Protro lineup, making it an irresistible pick for basketball enthusiasts. With its combination of standout visuals and high-performance features, the all-red “Christmas” edition is sure to generate buzz among sneaker collectors and players alike. Whether for the hardwood or display, this release is poised to be a sought-after addition, bringing vibrant energy and festive flair to any collection.

Read More: A Winter Classic: Air Jordan 11 “Legend Blue” Returns

“Christmas” Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro
Image via Nike

These sneakers feature a red and white patterned outsole designed for superior court traction and a red midsole with a black carbon fiber plate for added stability. Moreover, red and white mesh material constructs the upper, extending up to the ankles for enhanced support. Additionally, these sneakers ensure optimal stability during intense gameplay. Lastly, an embroidered Nike Swoosh on the sides and a red tongue complete the sleek design of this pair.

More Photos

Sneaker News reports that the Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro “Christmas” is going to drop on December 12th. Also, the retail price will be $240 when they are released. Moreover, the striking all-red design makes this a must-have for collectors. Additionally, its performance features ensure it shines on the court and beyond. Finally, this festive release promises to sell out quickly, so don’t miss your chance to grab a pair.

Christmas
Image via Nike
Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro
Image via Nike

Read More: Drake’s NOCTA x Nike Air Force 1 Low “Love You Forever” Coming Back

[Via]

The post Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro Returns In Iconic “Christmas” Look appeared first on HotNewHipHop.