aaliyah Archives - New Hip Hop News

J Cole Finally Drops Iconic Mixtape “Friday Night Lights” On Streaming

November 27, 2024 by newhiphopnews

J Cole has been in legacy mode lately. He launched the podcast Inevitable as a means of rehashing his monumental achievements in the rap game. He’s been running through his run of mixtapes in the lead up to his final album, The Fall Off. The best part of this rollout, however, has been the fact that his mixtapes have been released to streaming platforms in conjunction with the podcast. The Come Up and The Warm Up were released, and now, Cole’s mixtape opus, Friday Night Lights, is available.

Friday Night Lights remains one of the finest showcases of J Cole’s career. It sees him produce the lion’s share of songs, and elevate his rapping from the already elite level he was at on The Warm Up. “Back to the Topic” is a dense lyrical showcase, as is his nod to Kanye West, “Villematic.” The collabs are sparse on here, but they are spectacular nonetheless. Wale delivers a show stopper of a verse on “You Got It,” Omen sobers the listener up on “Enchanted.” Most notable, however, is the classic Drake collab, “In the Morning.” It was recycled for J Cole’s major label debut, but hearing it now, with the context of the “Big Three” drama, it’s a reminder of simpler times. Friday Night Lights remains a classic release for those who grew up on Datpiff. Now, it’s available for all.

Let us know what you think of this brand new album, in the comments section down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the music world. We will continue to keep you informed on all of your favorite artists and their upcoming projects.

J Cole’s Third Mixtape Remains One Of His Best Releases

Friday Night Lights tracklist:

Friday Night Lights
Too Deep for the Intro
Before I’m Gone
Back to the Topic
You Got It (featuring Wale)
Villematic
Enchanted (featuring Omen)
Blow Up
Higher
In the Morning (featuring Drake)
2Face
The Autograph
Best Friend
Cost Me a Lot
Premeditated Murder
Home for the Holidays
Love Me Not
See World
Farewell

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Missy Elliott Grabs Victory Over Fellow Songwriter For Aaliyah Royalties

August 28, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Back in mid-November 2018, Missy Elliott, Timbaland, as well as Aaliyah’s estate, were all taken to court by songwriter, Terry Williams. Specifically, the latter sued them for not receiving any royalties for the late R&B legend’s track, “Heartbroken”. Williams claimed that he co-wrote the song with Missy sometime in between 1994-1995. For those curious, “Heartbroken” would go on to release in 1996. He asserts that the only way that Aaliyah got her hands on the record was because Missy sneakily sold the record to her behind his back. Furthermore, Williams says that him and the legendary femcee signed a deal to share the profits from “Heartbroken”.

With that background information in hand, let’s fast forward to today because we have a new update from AllHipHop. After tons of disproving from Elliott and lots of hard thinking from Judge Quiñones Alejandro, the latter is giving the win to the rapper. There is a three-year statute of limitations on issues like these, and Alejandro says that Williams didn’t “exhibit reasonable diligence in recognizing the alleged infringement”. It’s worth noting that Williams also took Missy to court over records penned going back to 1993, too.

Missy Elliott Is Getting Full Royalties For Her Work With Aaliyah

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – MAY 19: Missy Elliott speaks onstage at 2023 Black Music Honors at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre on May 19, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Nykieria Chaney/Getty Images)

In Judge Alejandro’s statement, he says, “Williams commenced this action against Elliott on November 14, 2018, over twenty-two years after the release of ‘Heartbroken.’ Under these circumstances, this Court further finds that Williams has failed to offer evidence that he exercised due diligence. As such, Williams’ co-ownership claim based on the song ‘Heartbroken’ released by Aaliyah is barred by the three-year statute of limitations”. However, this just one of many disputes, as Williams sued her for multiple other artists’ records. But she can still celebrate this one, and its perhaps the most important for Missy.

What are your thoughts on Missy Elliott winning the royalties battle in court over the Aaliyah track “Heartbroken”? How much longer do you think it will take for her and Terry Williams to resolve all of this? We would like to hear what you have to say, so leave your thoughts in the comments. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Missy Elliott. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the music world.

[Via]

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Missy Elliott Has Reportedly Secured A Major Win In The Legal Fight Over Aaliyah’s Song Royalties

August 27, 2024 by newhiphopnews

It has been twenty-three years since Aaliyah’s tragic death. Although the “One In A Million” singer isn’t here in the physical sense, her essence lives on through her acclaimed music catalog.

With the Aaliyah’s discography available on streaming, new fans are quickly discovering and sharing her beloved records, which means more generated revenue for her estate and former collaborators. Sadly for Missy Elliott, instead of celebrating this new era of Aaliyah appreciation, she has found herself fighting it out in court over royalties. But according to AllHipHop, Missy Elliott has secured a major legal win in the matter.

The “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” rapper and producer’s 2018 lawsuit with Terry Williams has temporarily swayed in Elliot’s favor. Williams presented his case for song co-authorship and royalties of thirty-four unpublished songs some odd songs. Now a judge has ruled that legally Aaliyah’s “Heartbroken” isn’t one of them due to the expired statute of limitations.

“Williams commenced this action against Elliott on November 14, 2018, over twenty-two years after the release of ‘Heartbroken,’” said the Judge Quiñones Alejandro. “Under these circumstances, this Court further finds that Williams has failed to offer evidence that he exercised due diligence. As such, Williams’ co-ownership claim based on the song ‘Heartbroken’ released by Aaliyah is barred by the three-year statute of limitations.”

The judge may have dismissed Williams claim on that track. However, their pair’s fight is from from over. Williams’ claims made against former hip-hop group SISTA’s use of his creative works made with Elliott, a then member, can still be heard by the courts.

Williams alleges that he and Elliott were collaborators between 1993 and 1996, where they worked on releases for acts 702, Total and more.

Terry Williams is seeking co-author credit on the tracks the pair supposedly worked on, damages for breach of contract, and compensation for unjust enrichment.

Does Drake Have A Daughter? Unpacking Kendrick Lamar’s “Meet The Grahams” Allegation

May 6, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The heavyweight championship of hip-hop witnessed a fiery brawl erupt earlier this year. The long-simmering tension between Drake and Kendrick Lamar finally boiled over, spilling into a lyrical warzone with diss tracks aimed squarely at each other. Kendrick’s “Meet the Grahams” wasn’t a playful jab; it was a full-fledged missile aimed at Drake’s personal life and carefully crafted image. The line that sent shockwaves through the hip-hop world? “Dear baby girl / I’m sorry that your father not active inside your world.” This cryptic verse insinuated a bombshell – that Drake allegedly has a hidden daughter he’s completely neglecting.

It was a calculated move, reminiscent of Pusha T’s brutal takedown in “The Story of Adidon,” where he exposed Drake’s then-secret son, Adonis. But Kendrick didn’t stop there. “Meet the Grahams” transformed into a full-on family roast. Kendrick addressed Drake’s entire family in a mock letter format. He offered “advice” to Adonis, questioned the parenting of Drake’s mother and father, and finally confronted Drake himself, declaring this a “long life battle with yourself” rather than just a rap battle.

Drake and Kendrick’s war of words has generated so much buzz within hip-hop. However, just like “The Story of Adidon” before it, “Meet the Grahams” brings Drake’s reputation into question. Is the 6 God hiding another child from the world? What was his reaction to K. Dot’s lyrical jab? What does the future hold after Kendrick’s lyrical inquest? Let’s unpack “Meet the Grahams” and get answers to some nagging questions.

Drake’s Response To Daughter Questions

Baby girl.

— Drizzy (@Drake) January 16, 2012

Drake is never one to shy away from a fight. After K. Dot’s “Meet the Grahams” made the airwaves, he took to his Instagram story with a sarcastic rebuttal. Drake wrote, “Naahhh hold on can someone find my hidden daughter pls and send her to me… these guys are in shambles.” However, this playful denial only fueled the fire. Did Drake have a daughter he was hiding from the world? The internet detectives went into overdrive. A seemingly innocuous tweet from Drake in 2012 that read “Baby girl” was unearthed, leading to speculation that it was a reference to this alleged daughter. However, fans pointed out that the tweet’s date coincided with the anniversary of Aaliyah’s death, and “Baby Girl” was a common nickname for the late singer.

As the drama unfolded, Drake upped the ante. In his response track, “Heart Part 6,” he mocked Kendrick for believing a “fake mole” who fabricated the daughter story. He even playfully challenged DJ Akademiks on his podcast, claiming he would quit rapping and work for him if someone could produce proof of this hidden child. The truth, as it often does in hip-hop feuds, remains shrouded in mystery. There’s no concrete evidence to support Kendrick’s claim, but the damage might already be done. By planting the seed of doubt, Kendrick successfully tarnished Drake’s image as a responsible father, a narrative solidified by Pusha T’s earlier diss track.

Beyond The Beef: The Art Of The Diss Track

Diss tracks are a cornerstone of hip-hop culture. They are lyrical battlegrounds where rappers trade barbs, expose each other’s vulnerabilities, and leave the audience gasping for air. “Meet the Grahams” is a prime example of this art form, pushing the boundaries by aiming for deeper emotional blows. Kendrick’s accusation, true or not, struck at the core of Drake’s carefully constructed public persona. In the diss track arena, truth takes a backseat to impact. Kendrick landed a potent punch, forcing Drake to defend himself and potentially leaving a lasting mark on his reputation.

One thing’s undeniable: by raising questions about the possibility of Drake having a daughter, Kendrick Lamar’s “Meet the Grahams” ignited a firestorm of conversation. It’s exposed a potential vulnerability in Drake’s public image and reignited the age-old question of responsibility within hip-hop. And in the cutthroat world of rap battles, that’s a victory in itself.

So, What Next?

So far, the ongoing feud between Drake and Kendrick has produced many great moments. As the beef continues to heat up the rap scene, fans can only beg for more. The two heavyweight rappers continue to have a go at each other, throwing jabs upon jabs. Fans should expect more allegations and counter-allegations from Drake and Kendrick. Like the Drake daughter issue, it may be hard to tell if their claims are true or not. However, fans don’t mind doing the digging while their faves do the spitting.

The post Does Drake Have A Daughter? Unpacking Kendrick Lamar’s “Meet The Grahams” Allegation appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

[WATCH] Jazze Pha Talks R. Kelly, Aaliyah, Biggie, Michael Jackson And More

March 13, 2024 by newhiphopnews

This week on Country Rap Tunes Podcast, Cory Mo & Kimberly Jones talk to the Legend himself Jazze Pha. They talk about his younger years growing up in the music industry. Working with R Kelly, Aaliyah, Missy Elliot, Ciara, UGK, Biggie, 2 Pac, Michael Jackson and much more. Jevon Dewand of the “Trap Stars” also joined in to talk about his new project ventures & how to live life the right way. This episode will inspire you to be motivated at what ever it is that you do in life. Ep. 1 Season 2.

The post [WATCH] Jazze Pha Talks R. Kelly, Aaliyah, Biggie, Michael Jackson And More first appeared on The Source.

The post [WATCH] Jazze Pha Talks R. Kelly, Aaliyah, Biggie, Michael Jackson And More appeared first on The Source.

Alexandra Shipp Net Worth 2024: What Is The Actress Worth?

March 5, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Alexandra Shipp’s rise to prominence in Hollywood shows her unwavering dedication to her craft. With a net worth estimated at $3 million in 2024, according to Net Worth Post, Shipp has captivated audiences with her dynamic performances and used her platform to champion diversity and representation within the industry. Her journey from early television roles to becoming a sought-after actress in blockbuster films highlights her remarkable evolution and her significant impact on and off the screen.

A Promising Beginning: From Small Roles To Stardom

Alexandra Shipp’s foray into acting started with roles in television and minor appearances in films. It laid the groundwork for her future success. Her breakthrough role as Aaliyah in the Lifetime biopic Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B further catapulted her into the spotlight despite the film’s mixed reviews. This pivotal moment also showcased her ability to embody complex characters and paved the way for more substantial opportunities. Her commitment to refining her craft in the face of criticism was instrumental in her journey toward becoming a leading actress in Hollywood.

Breakout Roles & Critical Acclaim

The role of Storm in the X-Men franchise marked a significant milestone in Shipp’s career, bringing her international recognition and acclaim. Her portrayal of the iconic character demonstrated her talent and ability to bring depth and nuance to well-established roles. Beyond the X-Men series, Shipp has continued to diversify her portfolio with roles in films like Love, Simon and Shaft, showcasing her range as an actress and her dedication to taking on challenging and varied roles. Her performances have garnered critical acclaim and contributed to her growing influence in the entertainment industry.

Further, Alexandra Shipp has emerged as a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. Her commitment to this cause is evident in her choice of roles and her public statements, which often highlight the need for greater representation and equity within the industry. Shipp’s activism extends beyond her filmography; she actively participates in discussions and initiatives to break down barriers for underrepresented groups in entertainment. Her efforts to effect change and inspire others underscore her role as not just an actress but a catalyst for progress in Hollywood.

Looking Ahead: Future Endeavors & Continued Impact

Her future projects and initiatives are highly anticipated as Alexandra Shipp continues to evolve as an actress and advocate. Her journey from early roles to her current status as a prominent figure in Hollywood reflects her personal growth and her impact on the industry. Shipp’s dedication to her craft and advocacy for diversity and inclusion promises to inspire future generations of actors and filmmakers. Her story is one of perseverance, talent, and a deep commitment to making a difference on-screen and in the broader cultural landscape.

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Remembering Aaliyah On Her 45th: Happy Birthday, Baby Girl

January 16, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Her life may have been cut short that fateful day in 2001, but Aaliyah’s legacy lives on. Each year, fans commemorate milestones in the R&B singer’s life, and today marks what would have been her 45th birthday. The music industry may have shifted since the days Aaliyah’s tunes were topping the charts, but her impact continues to ripple throughout the music industry. We often find ourselves reflecting on her reign in entertainment and the profound legacy birthed through her departure. Today, we fondly remember Aaliyah through her art and the images etched in our memories of her life and career.

Aaliyah (Photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage)

The Legacy of Fatima Robinson: From Aaliyah to ‘The Color Purple’

January 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

In the year 2023, pop culture witnessed some of its most unforgettable moments, thanks to the creative genius of one woman: Fatima Robinson. From curating mesmerizing performances in music and film with artists such as Aaliyah, the late King of Pop, and more–Robinson’s impact on hip-hop culture cannot be overstated.

30 Years Of Non-Stop Talent

Throughout her illustrious 30-year career, Fatima Robinson has choreographed unforgettable dance routines for renowned musicians such as Aaliyah, Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, and more.

From Aaliyah and Beyoncé to ‘Save the Last Dance’ to ‘The Color Purple,’ Fatima Robinson takes us through 30 years of her most iconic dance moments. https://t.co/idAEcKoobM

— Entertainment Weekly (@EW) December 22, 2023

From Aaliyah’s unforgettable videos like “Rock The Boat” and “Are You That Somebody” to Michael Jackson’s 90s classic “Remember The Time” and working as the Director of Choreography for Beyoncé’s groundbreaking Renaissance World Tour, Robinson’s influence is evident. Her ability to curate a variety of dance styles has left an indelible mark on some of the most iconic music videos in R&B and hip-hop culture.

It’s worth mentioning that this isn’t Robinson’s first collaboration with the “CUFF IT” singer. She was also involved in the singer’s performance at the 2022 Oscars alongside Blue Ivy, where they performed “Be Alive.”

Dancing In Hollywood

Robinson’s talents extend beyond music. Her involvement in other notable films, including Dreamgirls and Save the Last Dance, further cements her status as a creative force in the entertainment industry.

More notably, Robinson takes part in The Color Purple, which is marked as the second-biggest release of a Christmas Day film. According to Entertainment Weekly, it’s a project she holds “dear” to her as she stated:

“Out of my 34 years of choreographing and dancing, I watched this movie and for the first time I didn’t critque it. I didn’t feel like, ‘Oh I wish I would’ve done that. Oh, I should have moved that over there. A lot of times I’m very critical of my work and this is the first time where I finally said, ‘That is a masterpiece.’’

Remembered for her work with a recent role as the choreographer for the acclaimed film The Color Purple, many fans have granted Robinson her flowers. As @DollarBeKnowing expressed, “A Fatima Robinson documentary needs to happen. Sooner rather than later. Thank you in advance.” @She_DreadzMe praised Robinson’s recent work in “The Color Purple,” stating, “Give her flowers because this woman went from ‘Remember The Time’ to ‘Are You That Somebody’ to the ‘Renaissance Tour’ to TCP.”

Queen Latifah’s Impact On Hip-Hop

While Fatima Robinson’s impact on the culture is undeniable, she is not the only Black figure who has left a significant mark. Queen Latifah, a hidden influencer in hip-hop culture, shares a similar role in shaping the industry’s landscape, just like Robinson.

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Aaliyah Fans Seek Justice For Late Singer’s Death 22 Years Later

November 29, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Aaliyah, the celebrated R&B star who tragically passed away in a plane crash over two decades ago, is at the center of a new conversation. Started by her fans, they demand that her death case be revisited.

R.I.P. Aaliyah

Known as the Princess of R&B, Aaliyah has consistently remained a trending topic. Nevertheless, while filming a music video for one of her hit songs, “Rock The Boat,” the talented artist tragically passed away at the young age of 22 in a plane crash in the Bahamas on August 25, 2001.

In the collective memory of her fans, Aaliyah’s death remains fraught with doubts and questions even twenty-two years later.

Many supporters find the circumstances surrounding her death to be “fishy” and “shady.” Recently, a social media user named @stopfeenin ignited the conversation, writing:

“They need to revisit Aaliyah’s death case again— since everyone’s tea is resurfacing. Aaliyahs uncle Barry needs to be re-investigated for receiving 90 million from her death. Word around curb was she was allegedly about to leave his label once the album dropped. But he signed a liability agreement on 8/20/2001 (five months before her passing), saying that if anything bad were to happen to Aaliyah that Blackground wouldn’t be held responsible.”

‘Am I Supposed To Say That On TV?’

Allegedly, in a release of liability agreement purportedly signed days before Aaliyah’s death, the August 20, 2001 agreement stipulated,

“That instinct shall be responsible and shall assume liability for any and all loss or damage in connection with the production of the Video excerpt to the extent arising out of Artist’s [Aaliyah’s] and/or company’s [Blackground’s] negligence or willful misconduct.”

According to purported sources, an associate of Barry Hankerson named Ayatollah Marv alleged in an interview with Cam Capone News that Barry received a staggering $90 million after Aaliyah’s tragic death. He stated:

“Barry, when Aaliyah died, he got paid 90 million dollars for her death. Am I supposed to say that on TV?”

Damon Dash Speaks

Another contentious claim emerged from the late songstress’ former boyfriend, Damon Dash, who alleged that a plane meant for Aaliyah and her team’s return from the Bahamas was taken by director Hype Williams, who was also responsible for her last music video, “Rock the Boat.”

Dash revealed to Entertainment Tonight that Aaliyah had expressed discomfort with the plane, saying:

“She [Aaliyah] said I don’t like this plane. And I was like well don’t get on it. And she was like well I got to because I got work to do. She got on the plane and she had a very serious fear of planes in general. So she had to overcome a fear to get on that plane.” Dame continued, “But what I was really more tight about was that I heard that Lenny Kravitz had offered her a jet and then Hype took the jet.”

Fans Rally For Aaliyah

As fans delve deeper into Aaliyah’s death, their frustration and mistrust intensify. Social media platforms have become a space for these emotions to unravel. One fan stated, “I’ve always said it, Barry Hankerson is a money-hungry devil… Truly a sick man.” Another fan @mistamonotone wrote, “At this point, I’m willing to believe damn near anything about the music business. What a cesspool of nefarious, greedy, and narcissistic (mostly) men. With that said, I hope Aaliyah’s death was truly an accident.”

Fans have also resurfaced a video clip of Aaliyah’s alleged former bodyguard from the years between 2000 and 2001. The bodyguard stated in the clip, “They killed her!”

Following the release of the clip one fan named @k.orocky stated, “I believe it & then kept her music off of so many platforms for a long time. It was like they were trying to diminish her legacy,” referring to the moment when Aaliyah’s music became accessible on streaming platforms in 2021 after a hiatus of two decades.

Crunchy Black Calls Out Gangsta Boo’s Brother

In the quest for truth and justice, fans’ calls for answers extend beyond Aaliyah’s case. The recent passing of Gangsta Boo, a member of Three Six Mafia, has sparked similar demands for clarity. Crunchy Black, another member of the group, has alleged that her death was not an accident and openly implicates her brother in the matter.

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From Beyonce To Aaliyah: Songs Fans Probably Didn’t Know Were Covers

November 28, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Many fan-favorite tunes are covers of earlier melodies created by pioneers that may have been unknown by some fans. Some include top hits sung by chart-topping artists such as Aaliyah, Beyoncé, Salt-N-Pepa, and more.

Beyoncé – ‘If I Were A Boy’

Queen Bey surprised fans with her 2008 hit “If I Were A Boy,” a cover of BC Jean and Toby Gad’s song. This rendition reached No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and garnered multi-platinum certifications in various countries.

Salt- N- Pepa’s ‘Whatta Man’

Salt N Pepa’s timeless hit “Whatta Man” was a cover of Linda Lyndell’s 1968 original. The duo’s version reached impressive positions on the Billboard Hot 100, the UK Singles Chart, and the UK Dance Singles Chart.

Aaliyah’s ‘At Your Best’

Aaliyah’s 1994 hit “At Your Best” was a beautiful rendition of The Isley Brothers’ 1976 smash hit “At Your Best (You Are Love).” The single spent weeks on the Billboard charts, peaking at No. 3 in September 1994.

Destiny’s Child – ‘Emotion’

Destiny’s Child, the iconic girl group, also tried their hand at covering songs. In 2002, they released their version of Samantha Sang’s 1978 hit, “Emotion,” which became a top ten hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Lauryn Hill’s ‘Killin’ Me Softly’

Lauryn Hill captivated audiences in 1996 with her rendition of Roberta Flack’s “Killing Me Softly.” This cover topped the Mainstream Top 40 chart, leaving an indelible mark on music history.

Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You”

Whitney Houston’s 1992 rendition of “I Will Always Love You” is considered a classic.

However, not many people know that the original belongs to Dolly Parton. Houston’s emotional tribute to Bobby Brown took the song to new heights.

Aretha Franklin’s “Respect”

Aretha Franklin’s iconic anthem “Respect” won her a Grammy and became a major feminist anthem. But it was originally written, and performed by the late music great Otis Redding in 1965.

These surprising covers remind us of the innovation and creativity that artists bring to their craft. While making a song, they pay homage to the original creators and introduce these timeless melodies to a new generation of listeners.

What’s The Problem?

In the world of hip-hop, sampling has been a long-standing tradition.

However, there are concerns about the overuse of sampling by newer artists, which some argue leads to a lack of originality in the genre. Hip-hop fans are divided on the issue, with some appreciating the homage paid to older tracks, while others feel it stifles the growth and creativity of the genre.

Goodie Mob Gets Real

Sampling has been a prominent element of hip-hop, and artists like Goodie Mob have witnessed its impact. In an exclusive interview with SOHH, members of Goodie Mob discussed their perspectives on hip-hop sampling, the state of the modern hip-hop world, and the influence of Drake’s success.

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