Jeopardy is supposed to challenge your knowledge. But during a recent episode of the beloved quiz show, researchers decided to dial back the intensity or so they thought. Over on Jeopardy’s official TikTok page, they shared a clip (viewable here) where contestant’s hip-hop IQ was put to the test.
The category titled “Rap Genres,” was crafted to be soft balls for players to bring in quick cash. However, many contestants were left stumped as host Ken Jennings rattled off questions. Going for the gusto, one contestant (Greg) sets thing off with the $800 clue: “The name of this genre associated with Memphis may be a mix of ‘crazy’ & ‘drunk.’”
The contestant correctly answers with “crunk” but things quickly went down hill. Greg then circles back to the $1,200 question: “Billboard says, the album ‘Trap Muzic’ by this rapper and actor ‘introduced ‘Trap’ to the masses.’”
Despite T.I.’s face being plastered on the screen, no contestant took a swing at answering the prompt.
This was folded up by the $1,600 question about about Big Freedia, the Queen of New Orleans bounce, which sparked a look of confusion on every contestant’s face.
But don’t worry Greg was able to nail the $2,000 question about Shaboozey thanks to the “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” and Beyoncé hint. However, viewers at home aren’t pleasure with the sheer amount of fumbles. In the comment section of the post, they were sure to let the show know.
“Knowing who Shaboozey is but not knowing T.I. Is diabolical ,” wrote one user.
“Alex Trebek, would have lost it when they didn’t know T.I.,” penned another.
“Why would he keep picking this category if he clearly didn’t know it though ,” chimed another.
Well, this isn’t the first time Jeopardy contestants sparked outrage over their lacking music knowledge.
The hip-hop world and beyond continues to debate the Super Bowl LIX halftime show controversy over Kendrick Lamar getting the headlining slot instead of Lil Wayne. No matter what your thoughts are on the subject, there are a lot of different ways in which this debacle could develop before New Orleans hosts the game on February 9, 2025. But what better place to look at than the source? Furthermore, NOLA native Big Freedia recently spoke to TMZ about the matter, sharing what he perceives as the city’s general reaction to fellow native Tunechi not getting the main slot. Check out the interview clip by clicking the “Via” link down below.
First off, Big Freedia posited with a smile and a laugh that he should’ve been the one to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. “I should be up there making them bounce,” he expressed. “But seriously, I don’t think that it was just, you know… People don’t really know, I guess, whose decision it was to have the headliner or whatever. And I think that, you know, me on the outside looking in, I think that Apple was the one who was able to pick the headliner because of that spot that Apple holds for the halftime show. A lot of people blamingJay-Z, a lot of people blaming this one and that one.
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 13: Kendrick Lamar performs in the Pepsi Halftime Show during the NFL Super Bowl LVI football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on February 13, 2022 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
“I think that it could be a collaboration effort for Lil Wayne and Kendrick Lamar to perform together,” Big Freedia continued. “Who knows, you know, where the show might end up? New Orleans is definitely sad that Lil Wayne is not the headliner. I think that they should have had some Southern artists for sure on the ticket. You know, I think the Cash Money and No Limit family should’ve definitely been involved. But who knows what’s going to happen with the days ahead?”
Then, Big Freedia elaborated on the chance that Kendrick Lamar may invite (or already invited) Lil Wayne to perform at the Super Bowl halftime show alongside him. “I think it would be a great gesture,” he shared. “And I think it would be a nice thing for Kendrick Lamar to do. I think he would definitely, you know, get his love from Louisiana and from down South if he was to make that happen.”
You may not be able to break Beyoncé’s soul, but it’s at least about to be tested: She’s currently facing a new lawsuit accusing her of copyright infringement, The Guardian reports.
Beyoncé, Big Freedia, Jay-Z, and Sony Music are named as defendants in the lawsuit, and it’s centered on Freedia’s “Explode,” which is sampled on “Break My Soul.” Da Showstoppaz claim that “Explode” infringes the copyright of their 2002 song “Release A Wiggle”: “Explode” features the phrase “release your wiggle” repeated and that part of the song is sampled on “Break My Soul.”
The suit claims “Explode” used “unique and distinctive lyrics and musical composition” originally from Da Showstoppaz and adds, “Defendants used plaintiffs’ words, melody, and musical arrangement from their copyrighted works. […] Any reasonable person listening to ‘Release A Wiggle’ and ‘Explode’ would conclude that the songs are substantially similar.”
Da Showstoppaz’s Tessa Avie, Keva Bourgeois, Henri Braggs, and Brian Clark are seeking to receive credits on both “Break My Soul” and “Explode,” and are aiming to receive royalties from the songs’ future earnings, along with damages.
Meanwhile, in more positive news for Beyoncé and Jay-Z, both artists made it onto the Apple Music list of the 100 best albums ever that has been blowing up the internet lately. Jay-S has one album on the list and Beyoncé has two, including one in the top 10.
Back in 2022, Beyonce returned with her first new solo album in 6 years. RENAISSANCE was the first in a trilogy of genre experiments that saw Beyonce digging into the world of house music. The project was led off by a lead single, “Break My Soul.” The track was a smash hit commercially and an even bigger hit among critics. They praised the project for its meaningful interpolation of the genre’s history and embrace of its sonic tropes. But now two years later the song might have Queen Bea in some legal trouble.
According to The Shade Room, New Orleans bounce group Da Showstoppaz are reportedly suing both Beyonce and Big Freedia, who is sampled on “Break My Soul.” The lawsuit alleged copyright infringement of the phrase “Release The Wiggle.” It appears in a song of the same name that the group released in 2002. But the phrase also appears in Freedia’s 2014 song “Explode” which is heavily sampled in “Break My Soul.” The suit was officially filed in Louisiana earlier today. Check out the full story below.
Earlier this year, Beyonce released the second part of her genre experiment trilogy. With part two she shifted her focus to country music. She had briefly experimented with the genre before on her album Lemonade but it wasn’t roundly accepted by the country music institution. That wasn’t the case with her new album Cowboy Carter. The record was a massive hit with both fans and critics that saw Beyonce becoming the first black female to top multiple country music-centered Billboard charts.
Fans have already begun speculating what the third album in the Renaissance trilogy could sound like. Genres like punk rock and folk have been heavily speculated about due to previous collaborations Bey has done. What do you think of Beyonce and Big Freedie being sued over their 2022 hit “Break My Soul?” Do you think the New Orleans bounce group who filed the suit have a legitimate complaint against them? Let us know in the comment section below.
Lola Brooke is four months removed from the release of her debut album Dennis Daughter and keeps her momentum rolling in 2024 with a new single, “Bend It Ova.” The hyperactive single is a borough-blending, region-crashing crossover, featuring verses from Bronx rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie and New Orleans Bounce icon Big Freedia. The beat blends the best of both artists’ favored production styles, pairing A Boogie’s moody piano riffs with a flashy NOLA beat for a track that is sure to see listeners doing exactly what the song says.
Earlier this year, Lola Brooke followed up her first project with an appearance on Wyclef Jean’s PSA “Paper Right” alongside R&B star Capella Grey, coke rap mainstay Pusha T, and hooper-turned-rapper Flau’jae Johnson. Meanwhile, her September track “You” with Bryson Tiller remains a fan favorite, racking up 15 million views on YouTube and over 13 million streams on Spotify.
A Boogie is also planning on expanding his discography this year, promoting his upcoming albumBetter Off Alone to capitalize on the buzz he acquired from appearing on “Calling” from the Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse soundtrack by Metro Boomin.
Listen to Lola Brooke’s “Bend It Ova” featuring A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie and Big Freedia above.
Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
Bounce music is a cultural force that transcends genres and beckons to the heartbeat of New Orleans. This energetic and infectious subgenre of Hip Hop intertwines a handful of musical cultures to create a sound that is uniquely its own. From the signature Triggerman beat to the explicit yet celebratory lyrics, Bounce music is more than a genre. It is a movement that pulsates with the lively spirit of its birthplace.
Besides the city of New Orleans, however, Bounce has impacted the music scene across the globe. It has also influenced some of the biggest superstars of our time, including Beyoncé and Drake. While the genre has been increasingly recognized and appreciated over the years, it could definitely receive some more time under the spotlight. After all, some classic tunes owe their success to the subgenre.
The Birth Of Bounce Music
Bounce music has roots that are deeply embedded in the rich cultural heritage of the city of New Orleans. Emerging in the late 1980s, the genre’s foundation was laid upon diverse influences. Additionally, the distinctiveness of Bounce lies not only in its musical elements but also in its close ties to the unique social and cultural dynamics of New Orleans. It thrived in the city’s neighborhood block parties and clubs, where DJs and artists experimented with the genre’s lively beats.
The Triggerman Beat
A pivotal moment in the history of Bounce is the emergence of the “Triggerman beat,” sampled from The Showboys’ 1986 track “Drag Rap.” The drum pattern and distinctive rhythm of “Drag Rap” were a defining feature of the song and caught the attention of producers. Subsequently, this beat became a hallmark of Bounce, providing a rhythmic backbone that fueled the genre’s infectious energy. Producers and DJs recognized the beat’s potential and began sampling it to create new compositions.
The Triggerman beat is characterized by its infectious uptempo rhythm, featuring a definite kick drum pattern, snare hits, and hi-hats. Its simplicity allows for creative manipulation, making it versatile for various musical arrangements. In time, the creative reuse of this beat contributed to the evolution of Bounce’s sonic identity. Since Bounce music gained national and international recognition, the Triggerman beat symbolized the genre’s legacy. It serves as a sonic identifier, instantly evoking the lively and celebratory atmosphere associated with Bounce. In essence, the Triggerman beat stands as a vital component of Bounce and the musical heritage of New Orleans.
The King, Queen, & Other Pioneers Of Bounce
DJ Jubilee, known as the “King of Bounce,” was crucial in popularizing Bounce during its early years. Alongside other pioneers like Mannie Fresh and Partners-N-Crime, his contribution helped define the unmistakable sound of the subgenre. The genre’s national and international recognition received a significant boost with the rise of artists like Big Freedia, known as the “Queen of Bounce.” Overall, Big Freedia’s bold and unapologetic approach expanded the genre’s reach and challenged gender norms within the industry. Undoubtedly, their influence has been instrumental in bringing Bounce to a global audience and highlighting its inclusivity.
Being the first label specializing in Bounce music, Take Fo’ Records also played a pivotal part in pushing the sound. The independent record label launched the careers of both the King and Queen of Bounce, as well as other pioneers like Katey Red and Choppa. Additionally, other early creators of Bounce music include Juvenile, Hot Boy Ronald, and the late Magnolia Shorty, among others.
Key Features Of Bounce Music
Besides the aforementioned Triggerman Beat, another important marker of Bounce music is its call-and-response style. The music often features vocal interactions between the artist, DJ, and audience. Furthermore, Bounce lyrics are known for their explicit content that often promotes a carefree and festive atmosphere. Notably, it focuses on themes of partying, dancing, and celebrating.
Conclusion
In summary, Bounce is a dynamic and culturally rich genre that thrives on energetic beats. Rooted in the vibrant streets of New Orleans, it has evolved into a global phenomenon, leaving an undeniable mark on the broader music landscape. All in all, the genre continues to evolve, incorporating influences from various music genres while maintaining its core characteristics. Its impact can be seen in mainstream music, with artists incorporating Bounce elements into their work.
Two New Orleans legends link up to bring the rain with “El Niño,” a new track that sees Louisianans Lil Wayne and Big Freedia collaborating with Memphis multidisciplinarian Boyfriend for a triumphant celebration of survival. This is pretty much right up Big Freedia’s alley as a self-described gender-nonconforming, fluid, nonbinary drag queen from the home of Hurricane Katrina in the midst of the American Right’s collective campaign of attempted genocide of the queer community.
It also marks the first official collaboration between Freedia and Wayne, despite their shared roots. Wayne sampled Freedia on a 2003 mixtape and booked her for his Weezyana Festival in 2015, but this is the first time they’ve actually teamed up on a record. And while it would have been cool if it was a bounce track (both rappers have used the regional sound as a basis for some of their biggest hits), the throwback trap style actually makes it a cool departure for Freedia and a return to form for Wayne that underscores the import of the collaboration.
Meanwhile, Boyfriend is a frequent collaborator of Freedia’s who adds another perspective. In a press release, Freedia said, “El Niño’ is about going hard in any storms that come in your life and conquering them! It’s one of my favorite songs on this record, it features my longtime collaborator Boyfriend, and it’s also my first collab with Lil Wayne, who I’ve wanted to work with for a long time. We put it down for our city, and this song is gonna have everyone blowin down!”
The track will appear on Freedia’s new album Central City, which is due this Friday, June 23. Listen to “El Niño” above.
Freddie Ross, popularly known as Big Freedia, is a New Orleans legend and Bounce music icon. Also known by the moniker Queen Diva, she has cemented her place in the popular subgenre of Hip Hop. Big Freedia is known for her high-octane live performances, energetic songs, and music videos. Her reality TV show and multiple business ventures have also gained many fans.
Big Freedia has also collaborated with numerous artists, including Drake, Lizzo, Boyz II Men, Kesha, and more. By far, her most notable collabs have been with Beyoncé, who sampled her voice on two Grammy-winning hits — “Formation” and “Break My Soul.” Her collabs have also served to make Bounce music more mainstream. The legend has raised the landscape of the signature New Orleans sound. Her advocacy and unapologetic self-expression have secured a host of fans who have stood by the icon through it all.
Big Freedia’s Early Days & Rise To Fame
Big Freedia grew up on gospel music and frequently sang in her neighborhood church choir. Her mother’s influence introduced her to secular music, particularly disco. Big Freedia’s introduction to Bounce music came in the late ’90s, and she would soon begin to dance and sing backup for Katey Red, one of the earliest queer Bounce performers.
From 1999 to 2009, Big Freedia was one of the most hardworking Bounce artists in New Orleans. She brought exposure to the genre after Hurricane Katrina hit by performing in Texas, where she settled for months. With the resurgence of the club scene after the hurricane, Big Freedia became a local icon, performing multiple times a week to massive crowds and revitalizing the city.
In 2010, Big Freedia released the album Big Freedia Hitz Vol. 1, which featured previously performed songs. The single “Azz Everywhere” became a hit and is one of her most popular songs. Throughout the 2010s, Big Freedia enjoyed great fame and headlined several concerts, including the annual Anniversary of Bounce in its fourth and fifth years.
Big Freedia was famously sampled on Beyoncé’s hit song “Formation” in 2016, and her voice was used to open the Formation World Tour. During the New Orleans show, Beyoncé brought her out on stage to introduce the show.
Big Freedia: Queen Of Bounce
It wasn’t long before Big Freedia’s energetic songs and videos, and larger than life personality, became reality TV gold. The Big Freedia Bounces Back series premiered on Fuse in October 2013. It ran for six seasons and 47 episodes until 2017 and followed the artist’s personal and professional life. The show also featured a Guinness World Record feat of 406 people twerking simultaneously at her show in New York.
While Big Freedia Bounces Back mostly featured tons of coverage about her stardom, songs, and music videos, the show didn’t shy away from the emotional. Big Freedia’s mother, Vera, died of cancer, and the artist sent her off in a beautiful street-wide funeral.
Personal Life & LGBTQ Advocacy
Big Freedia has never been shy about expressing herself through her videos, makeup, wigs, and dance performances. Though born male, the artist has stated that she is gender non-conforming and nonbinary. On the use of pronouns, she has been vocally indifferent on numerous occasions. She expressed this once again in a conversation with The Root in 2020.
“How do I identify? I do not mind if you call me ‘he’ or ‘she.’ Both are right!” she said. “I was born male and remain male—physically, hormonally, and mentally. But I am a gay male…I’m gender non-conforming, fluid, and nonbinary. If I had known the ‘queen’ in Queen Diva would cause so much confusion, I might have called myself the king!” she continued.
On the subject of her voice being used by several notable artists, she once shared that it all opens doors for others in the LGBTQ community. Big Freedia is widely regarded as a queer icon and an unapologetic hero. Her fan base is largely women and members of the LGBTQ community, and she has always been vocal on the topic of gender identity being on a spectrum.
Other Ventures
As an author, Big Freedia released the acclaimed memoir Big Freedia: God Save the Queen Diva! The 2015 book covers many important moments in the artist’s life, including her epic rise to fame. Big Freedia is also vocal about gun control. She starred in the documentary Freedia Got a Gun, which focuses on gun violence and its repercussions. The inspiration for the film came after she lost her brother Adam Ross to gun violence in 2018. Freedia Got a Gun won the Award for Freedom at the Outfest Film Festival, which promotes LGBTQ films.
On June 7, 2023, the artist will return to reality TV with the new series Big Freedia Means Business. The show, also airing on Fuse, will focus on all the many new and exciting chapters in her life. The Bounce music icon will cover her new hotel ventures, a cannabis line, an eyewear and makeup line, and a record label.
From her incredible success in showcasing Bounce music to the rest of the world to becoming a revered icon in her hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana, Big Freedia’s career is packed with several significant moments. The Queen Diva has shown no signs of slowing down and is expressing herself through several more means in the 2020s decade.
Hailing from Mobile, Alabama, rapper Flo Milli is one of the hottest female artists from the South. Being a part of XXL’s 2021 Freshman Class, her clever wordplay and intoxicating delivery have garnered a solid fan base. Her mixtapes have earned praise from Hip Hop fans and her singles. Not wanting to be compared to other new artists, Flo Milli’s style defies regional sounds with quick wit and originality. With a unique style, the rising star is quickly rising to prominence in the rap game. From being inspired to write songs early to being one of the hottest new artists in the game, here’s everything you need to know about the rapper Flo Milli!
Background & Early Career
INDIO, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 22: Flo Milli performs at the Sahara Tent during the 2023 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 22, 2023 in Indio, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Coachella)
Flo Milli’s love for music started at a young age, writing her first song at 9. Flo Milli was inspired by Nicki Minaj after seeing the artist on BET’s 106 & Park. This prompted her to start rapping at 11, even forming an all-girl hip-hop group called Real & Beautiful, later renamed Pink Mafia. While the group disbanded by the time the young artist was 14, she would continue her music dreams. According to Flo, she was also heavily influenced by the likes of Jill Scott, Anthony Hamilton, and Erykah Badu.
Continuing to hone her skills into her high school years, she released her first solo song, “No Hook,” at the age of 16. Three years later, she would release the breakout single, “Beef FloMix.” The single was a freestyle over rapper and producer Ethereal’s 2014 track “Beef” featuring Playboi Carti. The hit breakout single would become a viral sensation on Instagram and TikTok. The song eventually reached No. 2 on Spotify’s Viral 50 chart in April 2019. The fully-produced version of “Beef FloMix” was released in July 2019. The song would soon garner over 46 million streams on Spotify in a short time. She would further solidify her presence in the game by releasing her next single, “In The Party.”
Mixtape Success
The rapper’s hard work lead to her signing with record executive Justin Goldman’s label ’94 Sounds and RCA Records. She would soon release the singles “My Attitude,” “Not Friendly,” and “Eat It Up” in 2020. Later that same year, Flo Milli released the singles “Weak” and the J. White Did It-produced single “Like That Bitch.” The success of the singles built anticipation from fans for the artist’s first mixtape. Flo Milli’s debut mixtape, Ho, Why Is You Here?, was released on July 24, 2020, to critical acclaim from her fans. The mixtape would land rapper Flo Milli on the Billboard US 200, debuting and peaking at No. 78.
Flo Milli would continue the momentum of her debut mixtape by collaborating with big names and signing an exclusive global co-publishing deal with Pulse Music Group. During this time, she worked with artists, including Rich The Kid, Latto, and Big Freedia. She also worked with rappers Yo Gotti, Yung Bleu, and G-Easy. Milli’s grind would lead to her being nominated for Best New Artist at the 2020 BET Hip Hop and 2021 BET Awards. The rapper’s success would continue into 2021 with the release of the single “Roaring ’20s.” That same year, Flo Milli would be inducted into the XXL Freshman Class of 2021 alongside Pooh Shiesty, Coi Leray, and Rubi Rose.
Debut Album
On July 20, 2022, Flo Milli released her debut album, You Still Here, Ho? The album received critical praise from critics and fans alike. You Still Here, Ho? featured production from producers including OG Parker, Kenny Beats, and Dr. Luke. The album also featured artists including Babyface Ray and Rico Nasty. Flo Milli would describe the project as a rejuvenating experience that allowed her to express herself more.
Flo Milli’s rise to fame in Hip Hop is a testament to the impressive and unique style of the rising star from Alabama. With clever lyrics and versatility, Flo Milli has made a name for herself as a force to be reckoned with. In 2023, Flo made her debut at Coachella. In recent months, she released an extended version of You Still Here, Ho?, giving more to fans of the album. With the success of her mixtape and album still building momentum for the artist, fans can’t wait to see what’s next for the upcoming female MC.
,” chimed another.
(@flomillishit)