The Hillbillies, more or less an alter-ego duo of cousins Baby Keem and Kendrick Lamar, headlined Tyler, The Creator’s Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival last weekend. Before their set, a mysterious trailer played on the stage’s screen for what we now know to be Baby Keem’s forthcoming The Melodic Blue visual. This morning, November 16, a press release confirmed that The Melodic Blue will be available to globally stream on Amazon Prime Video on December 5.
“Keem’s internal battle leads us through fragments of memory and temptation as he navigates the depths of The Melodic Blue,” the press release teased.
The Melodic Blue first arrived as Baby Keem’s major-label debut album in September 2021, which Uproxx’s Wongo Okon reviewed as “Baby Keem’s attempt to balance his individuality with a reduced dose of his trademarked chaotic energy.” Keem dropped a deluxe version in October 2022.
According to the press release, The Melodic Blue visual was directed by Savannah Setten. It stars acclaimed actress Amandla Stenberg opposite Keem, Shakira Ja’nai Paye, Francis Lovehall, and Séréna Sy. The visual presented by Eerie Times, pgLang, and Amazon Music was co-executive produced Keem, Kendrick Lamar, and Dave Free. Jamie Rabineau and Cornell Brown are also credited producers.
As per a press release, The Melodic Blue visual will be presented by Eerie Times, pgLang, and Amazon Music to stream globally on Amazon Prime Video on December 5. Information is sparse, other than the fact that it stars acclaimed actress Amandla Stenberg. “Keem’s internal battle leads us through fragments of memory and temptation as he navigates the depths of The Melodic Blue,” the press release teases.
Last Saturday, November 11, The Hillbillies — comprised of Baby Keem and Kendrick Lamar — headlined Tyler The Creator’s Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival (newly labeled “The Best Festival In America” by Uproxx’s Aaron Williams and Philip Cosores). Before the set’s start, a trailer for Keem’s The Melodic Blue visual played.
Someone in attendance captured the trailer on video, later circulating on X (formerly known as Twitter).
Along with Stenberg, the Savannah Setten-directed visual will co-star Baby Keem, Shakira Janai Paye, Francis Lovehall, and Séréna Sy. The press release confirms that it was co-executive produced by Keem, Kendrick Lamar, and Dave Free. Jamie Rabineau and Cornell Brown are also credited producers.
Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem took the stage at the highly anticipated Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival in Los Angeles over the weekend. They had a surprise in store for the crowd. Kendrick brought out his fellow rapper and cousin, Baby Keem, and together, they brought the house down by bringing out Tyler, The Creator, and more.
Kendrick & Baby Keem Bring Out Tyler, The Creator
The Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival took place in Los Angeles on November 11 and November 12, drawing some of the most prominent names in the hip-hop industry.
Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem treated fans to their joint track “The Hillbillies” during their performance, and the energy intensified when Tyler, The Creator made his appearance on stage. Tyler danced along as the two rappers delivered their verses, creating an electric atmosphere that had the crowd on their feet.
Kendrick Lamar & Baby Keem brought out Tyler, The Creator on stage during their 2023 Camp Flog Gnaw set pic.twitter.com/aF4LNUiAmk
However, the reaction to the performance was mixed. Some fans used social media to express their disappointment with the lackluster crowd.
One user on Twitter (X) commented, “@CJTHEDJAY: Whole crowd looks like they’re waiting in line at the DMV,” while another user named @Enthusiatix wrote, “That crowd is not moving, hip hop is in a dark place.”
SZA Takes Over The Stage
Kendrick Lamar, Baby Keem, and Tyler, The Creator were not the only highlights of the Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival. The event brought together a star-studded lineup, including performances from SZA, Offset, Lil Yachty, and more.
SZA wowed the audience with her soulful vocals, delivering her verse on the recent hit song “Rich Baby Daddy,” which was on Drake’s latest album For All The Dogs, along with Sexyy Red. She also treated fans to popular tracks like “Good Days” and “Ghost In The Machine,” accompanied by her backup dancers.
SZA performing “Rich Baby Daddy” last night at Camp Flog Gnaw in Los Angeles, California! pic.twitter.com/FSgSPLYPTz
Atlanta rapper Offsetshowcased his catalog of hits, including the Migos’ 2016 smash “Bad & Boujee,” as well as tracks from his latest album, Set It Off. Lil Yachtyjoined him on stage to perform their collaboration “Peekaboo,” and Yachty even previewed some new music for the energetic crowd.
Ice Spice’s Electrifying Performance
Bronx rapper Ice Spice also made her mark with electrifying performances of her hits like “Munch” and “Deli.” The Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival also featured incredible sets from Jaden & Willow Smith, Pink Pantheress, Teezo Touchdown, Earl Sweatshirt, Kali Uchis, and more.
Amazon Music To Exclusively Live Stream Tyler The Creator’s ‘Camp Flog Gnaw’
Camp Flog Gnaw, the music festival curated by Tyler The Creator, is making a grand return. The highly anticipated two-day festival will be exclusively live-streamed on Amazon Music and Twitch, offering fans around the world a chance to experience the event.
Camp Flog Gnaw x Amazon Music x Twitch
It’s official. Tyler The Creator’s Camp Flog Gnaw will be exclusively live-streamed on Amazon Music and Twitch.
Returning for the first time since 2019, Camp Flog Gnaw promises a star-studded lineup and unforgettable performances at the Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California. The highly anticipated two-day festival will take place on Saturday, November 11, and Sunday, November 12.
The upcoming highly-anticipatedfestival will reach a broader audience through an exclusive live stream on Amazon Music and Twitch. This collaboration with Amazon Music ensures that fans who can’t attend the festival physically won’t miss out on the experience, also with the added convenience of streaming on Prime Video.
During the live stream, viewers can expect an impressive array of artists to grace the stage. On Saturday, Nov. 11, the lineup includes “The Hillbillies,” a special collaboration between Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem.
Tyler The Creator will also captivate the audience with his signature style and infectious energy. Other notable performers like Kali Uchis and Ice Spice will contribute to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. The excitement continues on Sunday, Nov. 12, with performances by SZA, Earl Sweatshirt, Lil Yachty,PinkPantheress, and Maxo Kream, among others.
Doors will open at noon on both Saturday and Sunday, allowing festival-goers to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Camp Flog Gnaw.
Updated By: Yasmine Duhé (11/7/23 at 4:28 pm)
Tyler the Creator’s ‘Camp Flog Gnaw’ Returns To Los Angeles
Get ready for the highly anticipated return of Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival, presented by Tyler, the Creator. After a hiatus due to the pandemic, this Los Angeles music festival is back and better than ever.
Tyler the Creator Presents ‘Camp Flog Gnaw’
Taking place at Dodger Stadium on Nov. 11-12, the Camp Flog Gnaw festival will feature an incredible lineup, including amazing headliners like Tyler, the Creator, R&B sensation SZA, and dynamic duo Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem, also known as “The Hillbillies.”
Camp Flog Gnaw has quickly become a must-attend event for music lovers, and its return is met with excitement from fans worldwide. Tyler The Creator fans have eagerly awaited the revival of Camp Flog Gnaw, as the festival has been absent for the past few years.
Odd Future Carnival Debut
What was initially known as the Odd Future Carnival debuted in 2012, and became an annual event until it went on hiatus in 2020 due to the pandemic. The following year, the festival did not occur due to Tyler’s busy touring schedule.
However, the artist recently teased the return of Flog Gnaw in June, with a surprise cameo in the music video for “The Hillbillies” by Baby Keem and Lamar. The news of the festival’s comeback has generated immense excitement among fans.
Tickets for the 2023 edition of Camp Flog Gnaw were in high demand, as they quickly sold out. The festival’s loyal fanbase expressed disappointment and frustration on social media platforms.
Twitter user (@TyraOddness) tweeted, “I hate y’all HOW ITS SOLD OUT?” While another disappointed fan (@raptalksk) exclaimed, “Bruh already wtf??” The event’s excitement is palpable, with fans eagerly counting down the days until November.
‘RapCaviar’
In other music news, Tyler The Creator and Pharrell Williams jointly previewed a trailer for the upcoming rap docuseries,RapCaviar Presents. The series, set to air on Hulu, will provide an artist’s perspective on the music industry and its cultural impact.
Lil Uzi Vert & More To Headline IYKYK Festival
Meanwhile, festival enthusiasts in Arizona can look forward to the inaugural IYKYK Music Festival, which promises a remarkable hip-hop experience. The festival aims to celebrate hip-hop culture through music, art, fashion, and more, featuring chart-topping artists such as Lil Uzi Vert, Metro Boomin, Denzel Curry, and Jeleel.
Camp Flog Gnaw returned yesterday (November 11) for the kickoff of the annual Los Angeles festival’s 2023 edition. As for the headliners, Kendrick Lamar and his cousin, Baby Keem, made their live debut as a duo now known as The Hillbillies. Throughout the set, both rappers played songs from their catalogs, including Lamar treating the Dodger Stadium crowd to hits like “Swimming Pools (Drank)” and “Humble.”
As they neared the end of the 23-song setlist, Lamar and Keem had one final surprise in store. The two brought out the event’s founder, none other than Tyler, The Creator, to groove along with them as they performed “The Hillbillies” song for the first time live also. Originally, the track dropped as a single online release in May. Tyler also appeared in the music video, making his appearance a fun surprise for fans.
The second day of 2023’s Camp Flog Gnaw is taking place today, as SZA is closing the night out as the other headliner, so there will (hopefully) be more surprises in store with her set. For those who are attending the sold-out event, more information can be found here.
Check out the video of Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem dancing with Tyler, The Creator below.
Kendrick Lamar & Baby Keem brought out Tyler, The Creator on stage during their 2023 Camp Flog Gnaw set pic.twitter.com/aF4LNUiAmk
Tyler The Creator’s Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival returns to LA’s Dodger Stadium this weekend, November 11-12, headlined by The Hillbillies — comprised of Kendrick Lamar and his cousin Baby Keem — and SZA. The festival returns after a multi-year hiatus caused in part by COVID-19; the last Flog Gnaw was in 2019 headlined by Drake. Today, the fest announced its set times for the weekend, which you can find below.
in addition to the usual suspects, such as Tyler’s former Odd Future compatriots Earl Sweatshirt and Syd, this year’s fest will highlight a slew of rising talent, including singers Baby Rose, Ravyn Lenae, and D4vd, rabble rousing rap crews like AG Club and Paris, Texas, and genre bending artists from across the modern spectrum of music.
Back in 2021, there were plenty of fantastic records that were drawing heavy album-of-the-year consideration. But, one that you have to include on that list is Baby Keem’s, The Melodic Blue. It is crazy to think that this project is already two years old. Sometimes, albums can grow stale in a short time after their release. However, with all of the various sounds and instrumentals that Keem attacks here, it is still holding its value to this day.
There are tons of outstanding tracks across this 16-track LP. The opening cut, “trademark usa” is a fan-favorite. The drone-like beat in the first half is very unique and Keem’s lyrics cover a wide range of topics such as artists not taking risks in their music. That is all the California rapper does on The Melodic Blue. Other examples of this include the glitchy pop track “16” which is a beautiful closer to an ever-changing tracklist. Another cut here that is a stunner is “scars.”
Listen To “Scars” Off The Melodic Blue From Baby Keem
This song draws a lot of inspiration from Kanye West’s massively influential 2008 record, 808s & Heartbreak. Specifically, it samples the hit “Love Lockdown” which is very light on the instrumentation. “Scars” is also minimal but takes a different lyrical approach. Keem is passionately singing and rapping about how the toughest decisions in his life are messing with his mental fortitude. The multi-talent put out an impressive deluxe version in October 2022. Most of those songs really could have shown up on the original, which shows how much potential Keem still has left to tap into.
What were your initial thoughts on The Melodic Blue from Baby Keem? Was this one of the best albums of the last few years? Is he one of the most exciting artists in hip-hop today? Which song is your favorite off of this project? We want to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the best throwbacks and all of the latest breaking news around the music world.
Quotable Lyrics:
I ask God (God) Why this life You gave so hard? Why all the choices that I make leave me with scars? I feel like everyone I meet confuse my heart
There’s been lots of talk in recent years on how deepfake technology could potentially effect music and art as a whole. While many have made dystopian predictions and others have embraced it as its own art form, Danny Brown is somewhere in the middle. Seemingly as a joke, he shared a deepfake video to Twitter that caught a LOT of attention from fans. In the clip Brown’s face is superimposed over Ice Spice for part of the music video for her song “Munch (Feelin’ U).” But it doesn’t just stop there, the clip also features his voice rapping the song.
Viewers were surprised and confused by the clip but pretty much everyone agreed it was hilarious. Many responded with gifs and reaction videos either their shocked surprise or general indifference to the clip. Many compared it to the music video Kendrick Lamar released for “The Heart Part V” last year. In that video, Kendrick deepfakes himself into the image of many controversial black celebrities like Kanye West, OJ Simpson, and Will Smith. In the final verse he famously transforms into Nipsey Hussle and forgives the rapper’s murderer. “This isn’t the influence Kendrick was thinking he’d have after dropping heart pt 5,” one commenter replied to Brown’s clip.
Earlier this year, Danny Brown teamed up with another beloved underground rapper, JPEGMAFIA. Together the pair released Scaring The Hoes a critically acclaimed collaborative project that also featured redveil. They followed it up a few months later with a DLC Pack sharing four new collaborative songs. One of the tracks notably contained some disses aimed at Baby Keem for the family ties that helped him achieve his current status.
Danny Brown’s last solo album was released all the way back in 2019. He’s often spoken publicly about the battle he’s having with his label to get a follow-up project released. Earlier this year he claimed he turned in a new album two years ago that still hasn’t been released. What do you think of Danny Brown’s “Munch” deepfake? Let us know in the comment section below.
Hip-hop, as a genre, has continuously evolved and introduced fresh sounds to the music scene. No artist has embodied this evolution more than Baby Keem in recent years. His distinctive style, which merges trap and alternative hip-hop elements, has drawn the attention of fans and fellow artists alike. However, Keem isn’t the only one contributing to this revolution. Let’s look at some other rappers who are paving their own paths while bearing resemblances to Baby Keem’s unique sound.
JID
JID, hailing from East Atlanta, is a force to be reckoned with. Like Baby Keem, JID’s lyrical prowess is showcased in his songs, blending thought-provoking metaphors with a versatile flow. His gritty vocal delivery and experimental production choices align him closely with Keem’s aesthetic.
St. Louis rapper Smino has a knack for creating catchy melodies, just like Baby Keem. Smino’s music is a blend of rap, funk, and soul, and he often explores themes of love, life, and the Black experience. His music exhibits the same playful energy and clever wordplay that have become hallmarks of Baby Keem’s style.
Florida-born Denzel Curry is another artist pushing the boundaries of hip-hop. His music is high-energy and aggressive, often featuring introspective lyrics over dark, bass-heavy beats. While Denzel Curry’s style is more intense than Baby Keem’s, their mutual commitment to authenticity and originality makes them comparable artists.
Rico Nasty
Rico Nasty, a woman in rap from Maryland, also deserves mention. Her aggressive delivery and punk-infused trap beats have made waves, challenging female rappers’ traditional sound and image. Her fearless approach to music creation mirrors Baby Keem’s willingness to break from convention.
Kenny Mason
Lastly, Atlanta’s Kenny Mason is an artist merging alternative rock and hip-hop, much like Baby Keem. Mason’s music embodies a raw and dynamic style that resonates with listeners. His artistry blurs the lines between genres, a trait he shares with Baby Keem.
In conclusion, while Baby Keem is a unique voice in the current hip-hop scene, his influence can be seen in a new wave of artists. These rappers, like JID, Smino, Denzel Curry, Rico Nasty, and Kenny Mason, all bring their own distinctive flair to the genre. They reflect hip-hop’s diversity and continual evolution, each contributing to a vibrant soundscape that will undoubtedly shape the genre’s future.
This new wave of hip-hop artists, inspired by and sounding similar to Baby Keem, is not just following in his footsteps. They are exploring their unique paths, driven by a shared commitment to authenticity, innovation, and pushing the boundaries of what hip-hop can be. These artists, along with Baby Keem, are leading a new era of hip-hop, transforming it from a genre of music into a movement of artistic expression.
The future of hip-hop is exciting, thanks to artists like Baby Keem and those influenced by his style. They challenge expectations, break down barriers, and redefine what it means to be a rapper in the modern era. As fans, we can only look forward to what this next generation of hip-hop has in store for us.
Fire Emoji time is here once again, and this Saturday (June 10) we have a beautiful balance of male and female artists for you to check out. Coming in at the top of today’s round-up is Baby Keem and Kendrick Lamar, who dropped off a surprise single, “The Hillbillies” earlier this week. They tapped Tyler, The Creator to join them in the accompanying visual, and while the Goblin artist doesn’t provide any bars, he did show off his dance moves – along with the location for his next edition of the annual Camp Flog Gnaw festival.
Another collaboration we’ve been loving is J Hus’ “Who Told You” featuring Drake. It arrives just weeks before the Canadian is set to head out on tour with 21 Savage. Following that comes the City Girls’ work on “I Need A Thug,” which received mixed reaction online, but was only a warm-up for what they delivered to us on New Music Friday. Elsewhere, Joyner Lucas and NBA YoungBoy joined forces for “Cut U Off.”
Sexyy Red is still riding the high of her “Pound Town 2” collaboration with Nicki Minaj at the end of May, but the rising rap diva isn’t done impressing us yet. Her Hood Hottest Princess project landed yesterday, and we’ve picked “SkeeYee” as the tracklist’s must-listen title. Aside from that, we also suggest Doe Boy and G Herbo’s collaboration with Future and Roddy Ricch on “TRY & SEE.” The fully loaded song appears on the first lyricist’s new BEEZY album, along with other noteworthy features.
Babyface Ray is making waves with his All Star Team LP, which we’re highlighting the title track from, and Rob49 made an impressive return on “Woedy” with Birdman. Finally, Yung Miami and Caresha’s aforementioned NMF drop, “Pinata” is the perfect pre-game party banger for summer. Stream all the latest additions exclusively on our Fire EmojiSpotify playlist. Which of the City Girls’ latest singles do you prefer? Let us know in the comments, and tap back in on Sunday for more HNHH release recommendations on our R&B Season round-up.
Kendrick Lamar, Tyler The Creator, and Baby Keem look like they had a blast on the set of their recent video for “The Hillbillies.” Yesterday, new behind the scenes photos were posted of the surprise collaboration. Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem are a talented duo with a strong familial bond. In fact, the two are cousins. Kendrick, a true icon in the hip-hop realm, is renowned for his unparalleled artistry. Meanwhile, Baby Keem has been steadily crafting an impressive body of work. The pair have collaborated before on tracks like “Family Ties” and “Range Brothers.” There, they showcased their seamless musical synergy. Baby Keem also made notable contributions to Kendrick’s acclaimed 2022 album, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers. Clearly, the pair enjoy working together.
Generally, Kendrick seems to prefer maintaining a low profile between projects. He likes to create anticipation for his next musical venture. However, it appears that he is taking a different approach this time. Recently, he collaborated with Beyonce on a remix of “America Has A Problem.” Then, in another surprise drop, Kendrick and Baby Keem collaborated for their new single, “The Hillbillies.” The pgLang YouTube channel surprised fans with the release of a music video for the new track.
Kendrick, Tyler, and Keem Have Fun In New Set Photos
New behind the scenes photos of “The Hillbillies” music video were posted yesterday by the Our Generation Music Instagram account. The series of pictures can be seen above. Kendrick, Tyler, and Keem look like they are having a blast in the photos. They are seen both inside and in front of Dodgers Stadium. In one picture, Tyler and Kendrick talk with the backdrop of an empty stadium behind them. In another, the trio poses with classic cars at the entrance. Lastly, there is a photo of Tyler displaying his signature goofy smile in front of the sign of the stadium. Of course, fans took to the comment section to let their thoughts be known.
Some defended the song, which has been somewhat criticized for its un-serious nature. “Songs hard not everything supposed to be serious,” one fan said. Several replied, disagreeing, contending that the song would have been received differently if Kendrick Lamar was not on it. “This Shit A*s. Let Drake or Yeat Drop Sum Like This N*ggas Having a Field Day,” replied one commenter. Other users simply wondered why the song was not on streaming services. “Why this song not on apple music tho lmao,” they said. What do you think of the “The Hillbillies”? Be sure to sound off in the comments and let us know!
(@BabyKeemBrasil) November 12, 2023
(@scubaryan_) 
