Today In Hip Hop History: The Diplomats Released Their Debut Album ‘Diplomatic Immunity’ 19 Years Ago

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On this date in 2003, Cam’ron’s crew from Harlem, The Diplomats, dropped their debut album Diplomatic Immunity on the Roc A Fella Records/Def Jam imprint during the pivotal time when Dame Dash appointed Cam’ron as the President of Roc-A-Fella Records.

Coming on the heels of the release of Cam’s Come Home With Me LP, Diplomatic Immunity introduced the entire Dipset squad including Juelz Santana, Jim Jones, Freekey Zeekey, Un Kasa, and Hell Rell, who was incarcerated by the time the album was available for purchase. With production from the likes of Heatmakerz, DR Period, and a then virtually unknown Kanye West, the trailblazing sound of old soul samples pushed Dipset to the forefront of the creative curve of Hip Hop, which offered the Blood-affiliated crew from Uptown an almost cult-like following.

The album was saturated with longstanding hits such as “I Really Mean It”, the infectious “Dipset Anthem”, the female-friendly “Hey Ma” and the Master P assisted “Bout It Bout It…Part III”. Commercially, the album was considered average debuting at #8 on the Billboard 200 and selling 92,000 copies in its first week, but the album was certified Gold by the RIAA in 2005.

Salute to Cam, Juelz on the inside, Jim Jones, Freekey and Hell Rell for this classic piece of Hip Hop history!

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[WATCH] Jadakiss Shuns Jim Jones’ Challenge For 1-on-1 Verzuz Battle

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Hands down, the most legendary battle to hit the VERZUZ stage was between The L.O.X. and Dipset, which still has some of the members from both sides still answering questions about last summer’s face off. Not long after the battle, Dipset capo Jim Jones sent out a challenge to Jadakiss, who was crowned the unofficial MVP of the VERZUZ between the two crews.

“I would want to have a Verzuz with Jada. Solo. He has to deal with me on my terms. He better be prepared,” said Jones. “When it comes to a top three, I don’t really have a list. I just got real smoke with Jada.” 

Brushing off what seemed like a valid challenge, Jada said, “I heard him say that but I didn’t entertain it. I don’t think Verzuz would entertain it. I don’t even think the people would want to see that.” 

Jada did say he would be open to a fitness battle against the “We Fly High” rapper, admitting that promoting health and wellness would be a positive challenge for them as well as the fans.

The post [WATCH] Jadakiss Shuns Jim Jones’ Challenge For 1-on-1 Verzuz Battle appeared first on The Source.

The LOX + Dipset’s Music Streams Explode Post-Verzuz

The LOX and Dipset might want to consider a Verzuz rematch. Since last week’s epic face-off, both iconic hip-hop groups’ music catalog has reportedly surged to career-high streams. The LOX + Dipset’s Music Streams Explode Both L-O-X and Diplomats have true diehard fans and presumably a new batch of supporters following their August 3 face-off. […]

Jadakiss Was The Star Of The Chaotic ‘Verzuz’ Between The LOX And Dipset

During last night’s highly anticipated Verzuz between The LOX and The Diplomats at Madison Square Garden, fans watching online quickly crowned Jadakiss the runaway star of the event. From the jump, his relentless needling of his ostensible opponents — from their gear to their performance over vocal tracks — tickled fans’ funny bones, while his own performances recalled his longtime dominance of New York radio and his elite tier rhyme skills. Fans also noted how he’d similarly stolen the show at his prior Verzuz event where he made several meme-worthy moments alongside fellow 2000s New York rap star Fabolous.

Among the responses were those calling Jadakiss the MVP, while still others admonished their fellow fans to appreciate the rapper more.

Even Tyler the Creator was seen in the comments on the stream expressing his “crush” on Jadakiss for having “crazy” confidence and aging well.

Some were even quick to remind others that Jadakiss put out a new album last year, recommending that those impressed by his performance take a listen.

The overwhelming sentiment was one of appreciation for the 20+ year rap veteran, who lived up to his “top 5 dead or alive” reputation for at least one night. Check out more reactions from fans below.