Bow Wow

Bow Wow Songs: His Best Hits

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Say what you want about Bow Wow, but you can’t deny his music career. Kids today may know the Ohio native from his social media antics, but that’s not who he is. Bow Wow is one of the original kid superstars. He has songs with some of the biggest rappers in Hip Hop. In case you didn’t know, Snoop Dogg is his godfather. Bow Wow was always in good hands.

After being discovered by Jermaine Dupri, Bow Wow became the hottest thing in Hip Hop. In fact, many rappers wanted to be Bow Wow as rappers started putting “Lil” before their monikers. Bow decided to drop his after other artists were copying his style. Early in his rap career, Bow crossed over into Hollywood. After releasing his second album, he even starred in the basketball movie, Like Mike.

Along with filming movies and TV shows, he also spent time being the host of BET’s 106 & Park. Bow has done a lot in his career and remains relevant today. His music cannot go unnoticed, though, as he is vital to Hip Hop. Let’s look at some of his best songs, in no particular order.

“Fresh Azimiz” ft. Mike Jones (2005)

Bow Wow has always rapped a big game even when he had the “Lil” in front of his name. It’s no different here in “Fresh Azimiz.” The way Bow raps the chorus makes for a catchy phrase to use. “You ain’t fresh as I’m issss” was a popular saying after this song was released, and it’s still remembered today. Additionally, this track scored Bow another Top 40 hit. It originally had three verses from Bow, but Mike Jones is featured, substituting his second verse.

6. “Ain’t Thinkin’ ‘Bout You” ft. Chris Brown (2010)

Besides making hits with Omarion, Bow Wow also sees success with Chris Brown. A few years after “Shortie Like Mine,” they both linked up for “Ain’t Thinkin’ Bout You.” This song differs from what we usually hear from these two. Instead of catering to the ladies, Bow Wow and Breezy make an anthem for the fellas. In what can be labeled a breakup anthem, neither artist thinks about their failed relationship. “Ain’t Thinkin’ Bout You” is the first single Bow released as a Cash Money artist.

5. “Bounce With Me” ft. Xscape (2000)

“Bounce With Me” is our introduction to Bow Wow. Later, we realize he was one of the kids at the beginning of Snoop Dogg’s “Gin & Juice” video. That was just a cameo, but he showed off in his debut. “Bounce With Me” set the tone for his debut album, Beware of Dog. It was also a lead song for the movie Big Momma’s House.

Clearly, Jermaine Dupri knew what he was doing with Bow Wow. After discovering Kriss Kross, JD knew how to make records everyone enjoyed. Kids, teens, and adults danced to this song. The young star rolls through the neighborhood in the video as everyone enjoys the song. It gave Bow Wow his first No. 1 on the Billboard Rap chart.

4. “Bow Wow (That’s My Name)” ft. Snoop Dogg (2000)

Bow Wow must be one of the biggest kid stars ever! He was just a phenomenon. “Bow Wow (That’s My Name)” told you all you needed to know about the young rapper. Out the gate, Snoop and Dupri’s protégé lets it be known that he’s the hottest thing in music. Move over, Backstreet Boys!

The video was even better as he ran around town, away from the crowd of people chasing him. He transforms into a dog at points in the video, making this his signature that mirrors Snoop. The visual appeared on BET’s 106 & Park so much it was retired from the network’s popular show.

3. “Let Me Hold You” ft. Omarion (2005)

There were a lot of hits off Bow Wow’s fourth studio album, Wanted. “Let Me Hold You” is another one. This is the first time he joins forces with Omarion. The platinum record reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. Once again, Bow Wow always manages to speak to the ladies. He continues to grow up right before our eyes. The lane he is in with creating timeless R&B/Hip Hop hits suits him well. “Let Me Hold You” shows Bow makes these songs with ease.

2. “Like You” ft. Ciara (2005)

Ciara and Bow Wow collaborated for a massive R&B-Hip Hop hit. Off Bow Wow’s Wanted album, “Like You” is the perfect song for a young couple in love. This is precisely what Bow Wow and Ciara were.  At this time, Bow and CiCi were dating, and the media loved them. They were at the top of their careers, and this song gave both artists another Top 10 hit. It was reported that the two were engaged for a short stint.

This song is still Bow Wow’s highest-charting song to date. The Ohio native has been a favorite amongst the ladies since he started. He continues to make songs catered to them and excels at it. “Like You” is undoubtedly one of the more popular tracks of the 2000s.

1. “Shortie Like Mine” ft. Chris Brown & Johntá Austin (2006)

Bow Wow knows how to make a hit. He grabbed Chris Brown and Johntá Austin for “Shortie Like Mine.” He adds another ballad for the ladies to his catalog as he praises his special woman throughout the song. Actually, “Shortie Like Mine” is one of the first videos to integrate social media. At this time, MySpace was huge, and the music video incorporated similar Myspace features. Bow Wow was ahead of his time with this one.

Bow Wow Speaks On Baby Mama Joie Chavis & Diddy Linking Up: “Certain Things Are Off Limits”

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It may seem as though celebrities have plenty of options at their disposal when it comes to dating. Really though, the truth is, they face more limits than anyone else. Aside from having to constantly question the intentions of others, many find their list of potential lovers cut in half when they begin to consider the friendships and potential collaborations that may be ruined in the name of love. Things like this are important to Bow Wow. He obviously felt some type of way after watching Diddy move in on his baby mama, Joie Chavis, following their split.

It’s now been a year and a half since the social media personality was seen on Sean Combs’ yacht. Cameras caught them sharing a smooch while relaxing on the boat in Italy. Chavis certainly had her cheeks on display both in and out of the water while rocking a tiny bikini. Recently, Bow Wow appeared on The Baller Alert Show, at which time he addressed the situation. He confirmed having had conversations with both the mother of two and the “I’ll Be Missing You” hitmaker after their kiss to express his hurt feelings.

Bow Wow Addresses Diddy and Joie Chavis’ Romance

“She knew better,” the Like Mike actor said of Chavis’ decision to link up with Diddy. “Me and her, we had our discussion about it, trust me.” While he was bothered by seeing his baby mama boating with the producer, Combs tapping her to appear alongside him in a music video was apparently less of a stressor for Bow Wow. “Me and dude, we definitely had our rep, but I’ll keep that between us. We handled it the way we was supposed to handle it.”

According to the 36-year-old, “There’s a conduct and code men go by and everyone knows certain things are off limits. Wives and baby mamas is just some shit that, you know, you steer clear from.” He went on to describe himself as something of “a savage,” but will only engage in that “f*ckery shit with n*ggas [he] doesn’t really give a f*ck about.” Watch Bow Wow’s full appearance on The Baller Alert Show below, and let us know if you think he’s out of line for feeling upset over his ex and Diddy in the comments.

Rapper’s Full Stint on Baller Alert

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Bow Wow Credits Diddy For Telling Him To Stop Social Media Antics

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Bow Wow has been in the public eye nearly his entire life. He became a world famous musician at just 13. His fame grew even larger when he starred in the movie Like Mike. However, the fame came at a price. Over the years, Bow Wow struggled to evolve from a child star to a respected adult artist. Many onlookers felt the “Let Me Hold You Down” artist was overcompensating in trying to shed his child star image. The Ohio native is now crediting Diddy for setting him straight.

Bow Wow discussed his life and career during an appearance on the My Expert Opinion Podcast. During the interview, Bow Wow recalled an incident at a party he was attending. The Ohio native says he was pulled aside by Diddy and given some stern advise.  “Come here, don’t be doing no clown shit. The fuck wrong with you?” Bow Wow recalled Diddy saying. “N-gga, you know we don’t associate with no clown shit. You Bow, n-gga. You better understand your brand and get out here and go to work. ”

Bow Wow Takes Advice To Heart

Consequently, Bow Wow credits Diddy with helping get him back on track. “That conversation is what put everything in perspective to me,” he said. “once I had that conversation I was like, ‘You know, I can’t be doing that dumb ass shit.’” Much of the criticism toward Bow wow came from his behavior on social media. The 36-year-old went on to say that the internet played a major role in how he was perceived by the public. “Once we started picking up on the internet with memes and different shit, you couldn’t get away with certain shit, or people would just find things and make ’em funny,” he said. “That’s when it was like, ‘Okay, a lot of this stuff is self-inflicted.’”

Overall, we’ve already seen glimpses of the more mature version of Bow Wow. Last year, he called on rappers to unionize. His inspiration for this plan was the NBA Players Association. Moreover, Bow Wow has continued making music as well. In 2021, he released an emotional single called My Pain. The song detailed Bow Wow’s often toxic relationship with fame. Away from the public eye, Bow Wow is a father of an 11-year-old daughter and a two year-old-son. Subsequently, we look forward to seeing what he can do next as he continues to move forward in his life and career.

Jermaine Dupri To Be Honored At Essence Festival 2023 For So So Def’s 30th Anniversary + Hip-Hop’s 50th Anniversary

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Jermaine Dupri Essence

Jermaine Dupri will be honored at the 2023 Essence Festival for the 30th Anniversary of his label, So So Def. Other tributes expected to be spotlighted at the festival will also include hip-hop’s 50th anniversary. The 2023 Essence Festival will pay a tribute to producer/mogul Jermaine Dupri for the 30th  anniversary of his label, So […]

The post Jermaine Dupri To Be Honored At Essence Festival 2023 For So So Def’s 30th Anniversary + Hip-Hop’s 50th Anniversary appeared first on SOHH.com.

Bow Wow’s Best Acting Roles

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Shad “Bow Wow” Moss, 36, may have begun his career with rap after being discovered by Snoop Dogg in 1993 at an L, A. performance, but he eventually established an acting career after gaining momentum through the music industry. Taking on multifaceted roles in over 20 films and television, Moss typically personifies his personal character in his acting roles, making him a character not to be missed, as his sociable, tender spirit is lighthearted and brings guaranteed laughter.

Taking on roles in movies alongside Tyler Perry, Loretta Devine, Ice Cube, and Taraji P. Henson, Moss was quickly able to epitomize any role he took on. From comedy to action, and drama, his versatility is embodied by his effortless and natural acting ability. With roles in Madea’s Big Happy Family, Scary Movie 5, Lottery Ticket, Hurricane Season, and more, Moss has shown nothing but genuine passion and skill in his acting career. 

Bow Wow products hit series Growing Up Hip Hop: Atlanta

Not only has Moss dipped his toes into acting with both leading and supporting roles, but he has also produced. He produced and appeared in the reality tv series Growing Up Hip Hop: Atlanta. Premiering in 2017, the show revolves around Moss returning to Atlanta to release his first studio album since 2009. The show serves as the second installment to Growing Up Hip Hop. It gives insight into how the rap and hip-hop game moves. It exhibits the lives of artists and family members of music legends.

Bow Wow Debuts His Acting Career Alongside Ice Cube

Taking on his first role in the 2002 film, All About the Benjamins, Moss posed as Kelly “Lil J”, a con artist who was caught in the middle of a bounty hunt for a stash of diamonds and lottery tickets. Though his acting premiere was a short cameo, as his character was arrested by the bounty hunter before the movie gained momentum, he debuted his skills beside actors Ice Cube and Mike Epps.

Lands His First Leading Role

Moss’ next role would be the one to catapult him into the acting world with many roles to come. In the same year he appeared in All About the Benjamins, Moss was in the sports comedy film, Like Mike. Moss’ character, Calvin Cambridge, is a young orphan with an interest in basketball. He and his friends are to sell chocolates for the orphanage’s director and upon their sales. Calvin meets and impresses an NBA coach with his basketball knowledge. The coach gives him tickets to the next game of the L.A. Knights (a parody of the L.A. Clippers). He had a winning number to participate in a halftime contest where he won with a wildly impressive slam dunk. 

However, had it not been for the pair of Michael Jordan basketball shoes he found on a power line, which ended up electrocuting him, giving the boy magical powers to perform like MJ, he likely would not have been able to win the contest being that he only stands at 4 feet and 8 inches tall. 

When Calvin astonished the team’s coach with his “Jumpman” skill, he was signed to a full-season contract with the Knights. He later has his MJ shoes stolen before his team’s last game to make the playoffs. Managing to retrieve them, he makes it to the game just in time to give the Knights a comeback against the Toronto Raptors. Though he ended his time competing with the Knights and was eventually adopted, the shoes gave Calvin a purpose that transpired into a confidence that would teach him and the team lessons of dignity, hope, and how to believe in yourself. 

And the Comedies Keep Coming…

Moss’ next lead role would be in the 2004 film, Johnson Family Vacation. Moss’ character DJ, who wants to be a rapper, and his comedic father Nate, played by Cedric the Entertainer, embark on a family road trip. But before they could leave, Nate goes to the auto shop to pick up what he thought would be the same vehicle he dropped off, but finds that his 4Runner had been pimped out with hydraulics and spinning rims. The new effects of the car end up causing hilarious obstacles for the family as they travel to a reunion with other family members. 

Though the trip was costly, DJ was able to prove to his father at the reunion that he was indeed a skillful rapper when he performed in the music category during the “Family of the Year” competition. This causes DJ and his family to win, and ultimately bond even more as Nate decided to give the winning trophy to his family opponent, saying that family was the only trophy he needed. This proves to DJ that he and his father do in fact relate, as the approval and pride his dad showed when he won their family the trophy were all each of them needed during their road trip.

First Drama Film Evokes Emotion from Him That had yet to be seen

Bow Wow would star a year later in the 2005 dramedy film, Roll Bounce alongside Nick Cannon, Maegan Good, and again, Mike Epps. Leading his roller-skating crew “The Garden Boys”, Moss’ character Xavier “X” Smith hurdles through a rough life at home after his mother dies and his father loses his job. Though his dad, Curtis played by Chi McBride, falls short of supporting his family through his own sorrow, Curtis ends up buying X a new pair of roller skates just in time for him and his team to compete in the new rink.

Though the “Sweetwater Rollers” stole their performing song, X and his crew tied their rivals. But there had to be a winner, so X faced off against Sweetness from the Sweetwater Rollers for the title. He ended up losing when he fails his attempt at a triple-lutz jump. But, he ends up bringing his family back together after tragedy and forms an unbreakable bond with his roller-skating crew, instilling a feeling of lifelong prosperity. 

Stars in Drama War Film, Continues to Move Fans with Emotional Roles

Starring in the 2012 war film, Allegiance, Bow Wow takes on one of his most serious roles yet. In this moving drama, Bow Wow serves as a combat medic. He is supposed to deploy to Iraq with his New York National Guard Unit. His character, Specialist Reyes, has a son with lung cancer and applied for compassionate reassignment, but was denied. He flees the base on multiple occurrences before deployment in hopes of remaining with his son. Though Reyes is arrested for failing to serve his term, all charges are dropped for fear of exploiting the National Guard poorly. He eventually is granted leave and reunites indefinitely with his son. This makes for a happy ending to a rollercoaster of emotions evoked by Moss.

Becomes Part of the Fast And Furious Franchise

Taking on one of his best-supporting roles in the Fast and Furious franchise, Bow Wow appeared as a standout character in two of its nine movies, The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift and F9. His character “Twinkie” is an established drifter that moved to Tokyo when his family was relocated for the army. He sells stolen goods to provide for himself. He ends up meeting Dom Toretto when he sets him up to race his friend Sean. 

Twinkie eventually moves to Germany to build cars for the government. But, he stays in contact with Toretto by selling him weapons, gear, and cars. Moss’ character may not make a return for the two-part Fast and Furious final chapter. But, F9 director Justin Lin opened up to Entertainment Weekly about Moss’ role in the saga. He said that , “I remember Lucas and Jason and Bow talking to Sung about a conversation they had when we were shooting ‘Tokyo Drift’ and it was just a continuation of it, and that kind of connection was great.”

What to Expect Next from Shad ‘Bow Wow’ Moss

When Bow Wow went on the 2022 Millenium Tour with singer and actress Keri Hilson, they teamed up. He is now in the sequel to Hip Hop Family Christmas. The upcoming film, Hip Hop Family Christmas Wedding has yet to release its debut. But, the VH1 film will most likely be available this winter. Moss appeared in the saga’s first film as Blair. But, the sequel is to include more about Blair’s love life and street sense. As for other works from Moss, he confirms with 105.1 FM that something is on the way with BET. Until then, grab a flick or kick back with your boo to some of his hip-hop classics like Like You, You Can Get It All, and Shortie Like Mine.

Omarion Recalls Getting Punk’d By Bow Wow At 19

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Many have fallen victim to Ashton’s Kutcher’s orchestrated pranks on the popular 2000s’ series Punk’d. The gut-punching MTV classic memorably captured the faces of rap stars like Missy Elliott and OutKast as they became the butt of practical jokes. In 2003, the show aired an episode featuring R&B singer Omarion. The usually “unbothered” singer was 19 years old when he was set up by his manager Chris Stokes and rapper Bow Wow. Bow, who was Omarion’s best friend at the time, initially set up the scheme having fallen victim two episodes prior.

The scene took place at a luxe Hollywood villa, where Omarion and Bow Wow were “invited” by a group of women. One in particular, the homeowner’s daughter, proceeded to cozy up to the former B2K star poolside. She later went on to rub his shoulders as her play father marches out, visibly upset. The Italian actor then delivers an Oscar-worthy performance as he lashes out at Omarion for allegedly touching his daughter. Despite the outrageous outburst, he keeps his cool until the very end. The hilarious moment was remembered by Hollywood Unlocked, whose throwback post sparked a response from Omarion himself.

Omarion Laughs Off 2003 “Punk’d” Prank

The reality star jumped in the comments as he relived the moment with fans. “Context. I was 19yo and set up with a back rub,” Omarion remembers. “First they got me comfy & then [c]onfusion & anxiety [sad face emoji].” One user comments that although the teen was clearly scared, “he was so respectful… my boy was raised right!!!!” He also apologizes to his mom in the reply, whose grave he swore on during the prank. For those who don’t know, Omarion’s mother is still alive and well. The singer laughs it off, writing “Not sure why I put that on my mommy. Sorry momma.”

With many resurgences of Punk’d over the past decade, it’s clear no celebrity is safe. 2012’s revival of the antic-driven series saw Tyler, the Creator and Nick Cannon hosting as they pranked their celebrity peers. In 2020, Punk’d’s 11th season began airing, which saw Megan Thee Stallion being pranked in the first episode. Reboot host Chance The Rapper guffaws at the hottie’s response to her stylist being chased by a gorilla. Moreover, other unforgettable moments from the season include appearances from Lil Nas X, Ty Dolla $ign, and Offset.

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Jermaine Dupri Doubles Down On 106 & Park Statement

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So So Def CEO Jermaine Dupri has continued to appear on a string of podcasts throughout his latest press run. In December, the esteemed label head visited The Goats And Underdogs show to speak on his longtime career when Bow Wow was brought up. Dupri, who was an essential component in Bow’s rise to fame, alleged he created the legendary 106 & Park show for the young rhymer. BET’s popular 2000’s music video countdown series was originally hosted by personalities A.J. Calloway and Free Marie. Bow Wow began hosting after a search for A.J. and Free’s replacements in October 2012.

The VERZUZ performer doubled down on the statement in his latest interview with the I Am Athlete podcast. The goated musician retold the story of how he went to BET’s now-former Music Programming lead to discuss a new show. “106 & Park was created by me,” Jermaine Dupri reminds the cast. “I went to Stephen Hill at BET and told him, ‘Listen. MTV has a TV show called TRL. They let the Backstreet Boys, and N’SYNC, and all these boys come on there and that’s they[‘re] show. I said ‘Yo, we need this in Black music.’” When asked by Hill who he thought would be up for the task, Dupri didn’t hesitate to throw Lil Bow Wow’s name in the hat.

Jermaine Dupri Stands On 106 & Park Comments

”He ain’t know what Bow Wow was gonna be. We put out ‘Bounce With Me’ and they created 106 & Park,” Jermaine Dupri continues. “That’s why I named Bow Wow ‘Mr. 106 & Park,’ because I created the show. I basically told them ‘You gotta do this.’” Upon hearing the news, Bow Wow denied Dupri’s involvement completely, which sparked outrage from former label mate Da Brat. The rapper blasted Bow “for being so rude and disrespectful” towards the man who made him a “complete star.”

Towards the end of the clip, Jermaine Dupri adds that he ”brought young n***as to Hip-Hop.” “I brought that energy to Hip-Hop. There has never been anybody younger than Kris Kross and Bow Wow, that sold more records than Kris’s Kross and Bow Wow.” Despite their back and forth, Dupri still believes Bow doesn’t receive enough recognition for kicking off “lil” artists. His list cites Chris Brown, Omarion, and even Lil Uzi Very. “There was no ‘lil’s’ before Bow Wow,” he ends.

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Bow Wow Says Men Are Thirstier Than Women At Clubs

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Bow Wow has never been afraid to speak his mind and posted a video this week with a message for men at the club. The “Ain’t Thinkin’ ‘Bout You” rapper reflected on male groupies, saying “ya’ll gotta stop thirstballing in the club.” He went on to describe how ladies aren’t nearly as bad as men when it comes to catching a celebrity on a night out. Bow Wow even goes as far as to call pesky dudes “annoying creatures.”

The 35-year-old artist recounted a recent incident that sparked his opinion, mentioning how “last night one person just made it so nasty at the club.” He continued describing his experience and said, “dude yelling all over the music ‘Bow Wow come here, come here,’ like first of all bro waiving your hands for me cuz I don’t know you and I’m not walking nowhere.” Bow Wow followed up by calling out for the guy to learn some “proper club etiquette.”

Bow Wow Has Had Enough Of Annoying Dudes At The Club

It’s been nearly two years since Bow Wow dropped a single, however, the hit-making performer seems to have cashed in on his early career success. Last year, he reminded fans of his legacy on The Millenium Tour: Turn Up, headlining alongside fellow R&B icons Mario and Keri Hilson. Also making nostalgic features on the tour were Lloyd, Pleasure P, and Bobby V.

Although Bow Wow has been hinting at retiring from music, he confirmed that a new album, titled Before 30, is underway. While the release date is yet to be set, Snoop Dogg is ensuring its completion. Bow Wow took to Twitter on January 11th, 2022 to write, “Snoop told me no way you can retire before me.” “You owe us one more,” he continued, “speak on all the real s*** that we wanna know you been going through. Put it song and watch it flourish. – nuff said unc! #lastone“

Even though Bow Wow has been spending more time kicking back to the music at the club than cooking new hits up in the studio, he still speaks his mind about hip hop. Most recently, the rapper tweeted last month to explain that artists from the genre need to unionize. He wrote, “I hate seeing my heroes liquored out, no money, just washed.” For news related to all generations of hip hop, stay in touch with HNHH.

Bow Wow Pressed By Snoop Dogg To Release Last Album

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Bow Wow & Swae Lee React To Being Left Off ‘Top 50 Greatest Rappers Of All Time” List

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Another Top 50 Rappers list has sparked conversations, and Bow Wow and Swae Lee are weighing in. The hitmakers may occupy vastly different lanes in Hip Hop, but they are both respected, award-winning artists in their own rights. Billboard and Vibe recently partnered to unveil their picks for the Top 50 Greatest Rappers of All Time, and unsurprisingly, the choices caused debates among the genre’s enthusiasts. With only 50 picks, not everyone could be included, and Bow and Swae have chimed in about not seeing their names listed.

“I took no offense not making that list,” Bow tweeted. “I always said im not a rapper i am an entertainer.” He added he doesn’t ” like to be box’d in.” When a fan told him he should have been included, Bow simply expressed it was out of his control. Further, he didn’t seem bothered because he agreed with another supporter who remarked he was a legend.

Read More: Ice Cube Isn’t Impressed With Billboard’s Top 50 Greatest Rappers List

Meanwhile, Swae Lee took a different approach. While in Arizona for the Super Bowl, TMZ caught up with Lee and asked his thoughts on the list. The rapper was unaware he wasn’t on it until the cameraperson told him. “That’s f*ckin’ wrong!” said the Rae Sremmurd star. “I got 20 No. 1s. We changing Rap!” When it was further noted that there weren’t any Rap groups listed, either, Swae doubled down that the list was inaccurate.

Then, he wanted to know if Future and Young Thug were included. It seemed that the list may have been correct if those two made it. When he learned that Jay-Z earned the top spot, Lee hesitated before saying, “That’s cool.” He added, “I feel like, it’s politics,” before declaring people should move away from the “old, traditional Rap scale.”

Read More: Ja Rule Reacts After Billboard & Vibe Exclude Him From “Top 50 Rappers” List

The top spots on Billboard and Vibe‘s list were also hot topics. Jay-Z took the No. 1 position, followed by (in order) Kendrick Lamar, Nas, Tupac Shakur, and Eminem. Swae isn’t the only person frustrated with the choices, as Ja Rule also complained after seeing he wasn’t listed, either.

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