The Roots Picnic has been an annual tradition in the band’s hometown, Philadelphia, for the past decade, but this year, they expanded that tradition to the West Coast with a concert at the Hollywood Bowl featuring a slew of rap pioneers like Arrested Development, Black Sheep, Common, Queen Latifah, The Pharcyde, and more. The show was a success, so it’s returning in June 2025 with A Roots Picnic Experience: Class of ’95.
This time around, the lineup consists of acts that had their biggest breakouts in the middle of hip-hop’s golden decade, with Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, DJ Quik, E-40, Goodie Mob, Havoc of Mobb Deep, Lil’ Kim, Raekwon, and Redman & Method Man all billed to take the stage, backed — as always — by The Roots and Black Thought. As for why they picked 1995 as the focus year, Questlove explains in the press release:
1995 was our true arrival. Nineteen eighty-seven was the Year of the Creative Adhesive, the year that tied together [Black Thought]’s world and my world in high school, and 1991 was the Year of the Green Light, the year we gave ourselves permission to take our resources and passion and pursue our dream. But 1995? That was the Year It All Came Together, the year when our first major release, Do You Want More?!!!??! was sent into the world. Hip-hop was an entirely new ballgame back then, on an entirely new playing field. Those were the days when there were still things like mainstream terrestrial radio, bloated video budgets, and creativity at both the regional and the global levels. Those were the days that produced classic album after classic album, unleashing countless new ideas about art. Those were the days when the world was our oyster. This is the story of those days
A Roots Picnic Experience: Class of ’95 takes place on 6/8/2025. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, December 11, at 10 am PT at hollywoodbowl.com.
Multiplatinum musician and entrepreneur E-40 continues to grow his “Goon With The Spoon” food brand by launching two new burrito offerings: the “Breakfast Chorizo & Egg” and the “Bean & Cheese” burrito. This latest expansion showcases E-40’s ongoing commitment to providing quality food products under his growing empire.
The “Goon With The Spoon” brand, known for its packaged sausages and ice cream line, has gained significant traction. The ice cream collection includes unique flavors like Cookie Dough, Bourbon Vanilla, Chicken and waffles, and Salted Caramel. Notably, the ice cream is produced using solar power and contains dairy-free artificial growth hormone rBST, promoting healthier alternatives.
E-40’s culinary ventures extend beyond packaged goods. Nearly a year ago, he released his “Goon With The Spoon” cookbook, a New York Times bestseller. Additionally, he co-owns The Lumpia Company, a Filipino food business located in Oakland, Oracle Park (home of the San Francisco Giants), and a food truck in San Francisco.
The name “Goon With The Spoon” originated from E-40’s music, where he referenced the term in tracks like “Back in Business” and “I Get Down (feat. B-Legit)” as a metaphor for his entrepreneurial spirit. Recently, Variety honored him as one of the Top 50 Greatest Hip-Hop Executives of All Time, solidifying his influence in both music and business.
E-40 is a foundational figure in West Coast hip-hop. Born Earl Stevens, the rapper is celebrated for his inventive slang and entrepreneurial spirit. Originating from the Bay Area, he has carved out a special niche with his distinctive voice. Starting his career in the late 1980s with The Click, E-40 swiftly made a name for himself as a solo artist. His career, spanning over three decades, includes numerous albums and collaborations with top industry names, becoming a respected and influential hip-hop icon.
Moreover, throughout his extensive career, E-40 has released numerous hits highlighting his creativity. His music often delves into the realities of street life, infused with humor and a unique linguistic style. These five essential songs showcase pivotal moments in his career, reflecting his enduring impact in hip-hop. From early tracks establishing his presence to modern anthems introducing him to new audiences.
1. “Captain Save A Hoe” Ft. The Click
Released in 1994 from the EP The Mail Man, “Captain Save a Hoe” became one of E-40’s earliest hits, featuring The Click. The track is known for its humorous and satirical take on relationships, particularly addressing men who excessively spend money on women in hopes of gaining their affection. The song showcases E-40’s uncommon linguistic and storytelling ability, helping to cement his reputation in hip-hop.
Further, the song’s impact extended beyond its initial release, becoming a cultural reference point and a fan favorite. It highlighted E-40’s knack for blending wit with serious social commentary, a trait that would become a hallmark of his music. “Captain Save a Hoe” played a crucial role in establishing E-40’s presence in the rap industry and remains one of his most iconic tracks.
2. “Sprinkle Me” Ft. Suga-T
“Sprinkle Me,” released in 1995 from E-40’s album In a Major Way, is a notable track in his discography. Featuring his sister Suga-T, the song highlights their dynamic collaboration. The success of “Sprinkle Me” extended beyond its initial release, also becoming a staple in E-40’s live performances. The song’s playful yet impactful lyrics and distinctive sound contributed to its enduring popularity. This track exemplified E-40’s ability to create infectious music and reinforced his role as a key player in the Bay Area rap movement. “Sprinkle Me” remains a beloved classic, reflecting E-40’s influence and the solid musical partnership with Suga-T.
3. “Tell Me When To Go” Ft. Keak Da Sneak
“Tell Me When to Go,” released in 2006, features fellow Bay Area rapper Keak da Sneak. This song was pivotal in bringing the Hyphy movement to mainstream attention, characterized by its minimalistic production by Lil Jon and an energetic, bass-heavy beat. The repetitive chant and the song’s contagious energy capture the essence of the Bay Area’s vibrant hip-hop culture. The track achieved commercial success, peaking at No. 35 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 8 on the Hot Rap Songs chart. It also earned a Platinum certification from the RIAA. The music video, which features local dancers and iconic Bay Area locations, further popularized the hyphy movement and became an anthem.
“U and Dat” came out in 2006 as part of My Ghetto Report Card. This track is among E-40’s most successful singles. It also features T-Pain and Kandi Girl on vocals with a production by Lil Jon. The song became very popular due to its club-ready vibe so much so that it reached No. 13 on Billboard Hot 100. Besides having energizing performances, the song’s vibrant music video also contributed greatly to its success. Moreover, it received platinum certification from RIAA. What makes this single special is that he managed to blend hip-hop along with pop thereby creating a record-breaker for him during his career.
5. “Choices (Yup)”
Released in 2014 as a single from his album Sharp On All 4 Corners: Corner 1, “Choices (Yup)” is a significant track in E-40’s discography. The song’s impressive structure features a series of questions followed by E-40’s responses, either “Yup” or “Nope,” making it instantly memorable and relatable. This approach and its catchy hook helped the song resonate with a wide audience. Additionally, “Choices (Yup)” achieved commercial success, peaking at No. 43 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It also went viral, becoming a cultural phenomenon and earning a Platinum certification from the RIAA. The song’s impact was further amplified by its music video, which featured numerous cameos from notable figures in hip-hop and sports. “Choices (Yup)” exemplifies E-40’s storytelling ability and his knack for creating tracks that engage and entertain listeners.
Kendrick Lamar’s “Pop Out” show has been the defining concert event of 2024. The rapper repped the West Coast with pride, and made sure to include every artist and celebrity that he considered vital to the California scene. Naturally, E-40 was among these artists. The Oakland icon had the unique but crucial job of narrating the “Pop Out” show, and to no one’s surprise, he crushed it. E-40’s voice was instantly recognizable, and perfectly suited to sound and feel of the event.
Like everything else related to the “Pop Out,” E-40’s involvement was a surprise. The rapper was tight-lipped about his involvement with Lamar’s pgLang team. He did, however, detail the way his narration came to be on Instagram. E-40 claimed that K. Dot reached out to him while he was on the road, and requested that he carve out time to provide recordings. The interaction reportedly happened over the phone while the rapper was in Washington. “After landing in Washington, DC from Aspen,” he wrote. “I rushed to the hotel to answer the call and contribute some authentic game to what I knew was going to be a monumental night for The West Coast.”
E-40 couldn’t attend the “Pop Out,” but he thanked Kendrick Lamar for making him feel included. He also showed love to the West Coast, which seemed to be the overriding sentiment of the event. “I feel honored to be considered for moments like this,” he added. “Sometimes the West Coast is overlooked. But not tonight. I’m glad I was able to play my part and Sprinkle a little Game on this historical moment.” E-40 dubbed the “Pop Out” concert “one of the biggest nights in hip-hop history,” and the public seems to agree.
Of course, E-40 couldn’t wrap up his message without praising the man of the hour. The West Coast may have won last night, but Kendrick Lamar is the rapper who made it possible, and E-40 made sure to emphasize Dot’s importance. “From the beginning I knew @kendricklamar was gonna be special,” the Oakland icon asserted. “He’s always shown me the utmost love and respect.” Lamar obviously feels a similar reverence for E-40, as he referenced the rapper on his now-classic Metro Boomin collab, “Like That.”
Rock The Bells, the global platform dedicated to elevating Hip-Hop culture from its roots to the modern day, has announced the first wave of talent joining the second annual “Rock The Bells Cruise: A Hip-Hop Experience”, sailing on November 13-17, 2024 from Miami to Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau, Bahamas for another five days of non-stop Hip-Hop. The initial wave of artists includes Jadakiss, E-40, Rakim, Talib Kweli, Digable Planets, and AZ, along with a cast of DJsthat set the tone for the inaugural cruise, including DJ Jazzy Jeff, Kid Capri, Mannie Fresh, and Rock The Bells Radio’s own The Finisher Mister Cee, DJ Scratch, and DJ Epps. Roxanne Shante and Torae will return as hosts.
“Rock The Bells Cruise: A Hip-Hop Experience” is in partnership with Sixthman, the industry leader in unforgettable music and lifestyle festivals at sea. Inspired by classic Hip-Hop for Hip-Hop heads, the experience is the first of its kind, offering an immersive five-day Hip-Hop experience aboard the Norwegian Gem. Hip-Hop will be taking over every corner of the ship with themed parties, meet & greet autograph sessions, rap karaoke, open mic nights, and much more.
“Keepin the heads ringing, Rock the Bells Cruise is back!,”said Sixthman CEO Jeff Cuellar,“Hip-Hop heads get ready for a bigger and more action-packed schedule that continues the tradition of celebrating the icons across all Hip-Hop culture while also looking ahead to the next 50 years.”
Rock The Bells proudly serves Hip-Hop’s legends and champions the culture by providing opportunities to spotlight its icons through content, commerce, and experiences. This partnership is the first time Sixthman has produced a classic Hip-Hop cruise.
The week-long cruise will sail from Miami and make two stops in the Bahamas at Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau. Pricing ranges from $1,180 to $7,191. Cabins are on sale to the public today, Tuesday, March 5th. More information can be found at rockthebellscruise.com. A full slate of performers, activities, and other details will be made available within the coming months.
Bay Area icon Earl Tywone Stevens, better known as E-40, has been an influential figure in the music industry for decades. Born in 1967, E-40 hails from Vallejo, California, and his distinctive style and slang left an indelible mark on the West Coast hip-hop scene.
The Making Of E-40’s Fortune
Fast forward to 2024, and the question on everyone’s mind is: How much is E-40 worth? As reported by Celebrity Net Worth, the rapper’s estimated net worth stands at a whopping $8 million US Dollars. This impressive sum is a testament to E-40’s enduring success in music and his entrepreneurial ventures.
Breakdown of E-40’s Net Worth
So, how did E-40 amass this fortune? A significant chunk of his wealth comes from his music career. His discography, spanning over thirty albums and numerous hit singles like “Tell Me When to Go” and “Choices (Yup),” has brought him considerable earnings from sales and streams.
E-40’s Business Ventures
LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY – NOVEMBER 20: E-40 of hip-hop supergroup Mt. Westmore performs at Rupp Arena on November 20, 2021 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Stephen J. Cohen/Getty Images)
E-40 is not just a rapper; he’s also a wise entrepreneur. Over the years, he has diversified his income by investing in a variety of businesses. He owns a percentage of Microsoft, has a line of beverages under his name, and has also ventured into the fast-food industry. These smart investments have substantially added to his wealth.
E-40’s Philanthropy
LOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER 21: Rappers E40 and Too Short arrive at “40 On Fairfax” listening party on November 21, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Maury Phillips/WireImage)
Despite his wealth, E-40 has remained committed to giving back to his community. He has been involved in numerous charitable endeavors, particularly those centered on education and empowering the youth. While these activities may not contribute directly to his net worth, they definitely enhance his public image and, indirectly, his overall wealth.
E-40 (Earl T Stevens) performs on stage at the Jam’n 107.5 Boo Bomb at Moda Center in Portland, Oregon, USA on 18th October, 2019. (Photo by Anthony Pidgeon/Redferns)
As we look towards the future, E-40’s net worth seems set to continue growing. With new music always on the horizon and a keen eye for profitable investments, E-40’s financial future appears to be as promising as his musical past. There’s no doubt that this seasoned rapper and savvy businessman has more to offer.
In conclusion, E-40’s $8 million net worth in 2024 clearly reflects his successful music career and business acumen. It’s a symbol of his talent, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. As he continues to navigate the music industry and the business world, one thing is sure: E-40’s influence and wealth will continue to grow. The rapper’s journey inspires many. It demonstrates that one can truly make a mark with talent and hard work.
Snoop Dogg is always up to something. After making the world think he was giving up weed, he unveiled a new brand partnership with Solo Stove. This follows last week, when he and E-40 teamed up to release Goon With The Spoon, a new cookbook. That arrived just in time for Thanksgiving prep, and if you’re looking for a way to jazz up your mashed potatoes this year, Snoop has a secret ingredient for you: Hennessy.
As People notes, Snoop says of his take on the classic side dish, “These ain’t your mama’s mashed potatoes, y’all! […] I know what you’re thinking: ‘Isn’t cognac more for a concert with the Dogg rather than Thanksgiving?’ My answer to that: ‘Why not both?’”
Aside from cognac/brandy, the recipe also calls for butter, heavy cream, and mayo, meaning there should be a ton of creaminess and flavor in this spud preparation.
Check out the full recipe (via People) below and pick up a copy of Goon With The Spoonhere.
“4 lbs. russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
½ cup (4 oz.) cognac or other brandy
4 Tbsp. unsalted butter
2 cups heavy cream
½ cup mayonnaise
2½ tsp. kosher salt
1 tsp. cracked black pepper
1. Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil over high. Reduce heat to medium high; add potatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 25 minutes. Drain, and set aside.
2. Return empty pot to stovetop over medium. Add cognac; cook until slightly reduced and alcohol is cooked off, 3 to 5 minutes. Whisk in butter until melted. Whisk in cream and mayonnaise; cook until slightly thickened and warm, about 5 minutes.
3. Return potatoes to the pot; add salt and pepper. Using a potato masher, mash until combined and smooth.
Serves: 10
Active time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes”
After a long wait, music fans have been treated to an exciting week of new releases. Andre 3000 finally drops his debut solo album, New Blue Sun,Drake released an extended version of his latest album called Scary Hours 3, Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz blessed fans with a new joint project, and more.
This album marks his first solo project after a remarkable 17-year break from releasing music. However, instead of showcasing his rap skills, the Atlanta rap legend focuses on his musical versatility by playing the flute and other wind instruments throughout the album.
Drizzy dropped a surprise extended version of his latest album, For All The Dogs, titled For All The Dogs Scary Hours Edition. The extended version features six brand new songs by the rap superstar, including the track “Evil Ways” featuring fellow rap superstar J. Cole.
Lil Wayne and 2 Chainzhave reunited to deliver their joint album, Welcome To Collegrove 2.
This highly anticipated sequel to their 2016 project, Collegrove, consists of 21 tracks and boasts an impressive lineup of featured artists, including 21 Savage, Rick Ross, Usher, Fabolous, and Marsha Ambrosius.
Tory Lanez dropped the deluxe version of his 1980s-inspired album, Alone At Prom, which originally came out in 2021. The deluxe version contains 10 songs and also has a feature from Trippie Redd.
Chicago rapper Lil Durk and his label, Only The Family(OTF) dropped their joint mixtape Nightmares In The Trenches. The mixtape contains 11 songs and it will have features by Rob49, Icewear Vezzo, YTB Fatt, and others.
New York rap legend Busta Rhymes has shared his tracklist for his upcoming album, Blockbusta.
The album contains 19 tracks and has a star-studded featured artists list of Burna Boy, Coi Leray, BIA, Chris Brown, Shenseea, Kodak Black, and others. Blockbusta is set to release on November 24.
Pretty dope the way Busta Rhymes promoted his album BlockBusta, album packaging is pic.twitter.com/nGcq1iB93q
— Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod (@big_business_) November 17, 2023
E-40’s Rule of Thumb: Rule 1
Bay Area rap legend E-40 dropped his 26th studio album titled Rule of Thumb: Rule 1. The album contains 23 songs and has features from artists such as Larry June, Too $hort, Gucci MAne, NBA Youngboy and others.
Detroit rapper Danny Brown dropped his sixth studio album titled Quaranta. The album contains 11 songs and features production from The Alchemist. This is the second project of 2023 for Brown who worked with rapper JPEGMAFIA on their joint album, Scaring the Hoes.
Detroit rapper 42 Dugg released his single “Spindatbac” which is the first single he has released since his release from prison in October 2023. In a preview on his Twitter (X) account, he was in the studio with rappers J. Cole and Westside Gunn.
On Nov. 11, Memphis rapper Key Glock released his single “Monaco Freestyle,” after previously teasing the song on his social media. The song cover is a drawing of Key Glock walking a goat.
Jay Rock Is ‘Still That Way’ Feat. Bongo ByTheWay
Los Angeles rapper Jay Rock released the song and video for his new single “Still That Way,” featuring Bongo ByTheWay. The video included Jay Rock and friends riding through a desert in various cars and rapping on a makeshift set of his Los Angeles neighborhood, Watts.
Paul Wall x That Mexican OT
Houston rap legend Paul Wall is back with another single release ahead of his upcoming album via Oiler Mobb/ONErpm. “Covered In Ice” features fellow Texan rapper, That Mexican OT.
Big Scarr’s Posthumous Music Video
Big Scarr‘s music video for “Fantastic” was released on November 16. The video was the last one that he shot, the late Memphis rapper died on December 22, 2022, from an accidental drug overdose.
October London Shares ‘The Greatest Gift’
Rising R&B sensation October London has released his Christmas album, The Greatest Gift. The album was released via Death Row Records/gamma. Channeling the romantic side of Christmas, October London’s smooth and sultry vocals shine throughout the 10-track album.
Yung Esckimo Drops ‘Blue Magic’
New York City rapper Yung Esckimo released his new single “Blue Magic,” the title track for his forthcoming EP Blue Magic, which is set to arrive this fall via SCAM Inc. The track follows the project’s lead single “The Code.”
SOHH Fam, check out these new projects from your favorite artists, and have a great weekend!
E-40’s legacy should always be remembered amongst all rap fans. His contributions to the genre, especially to the West Coast sound, have been vital to the growth of it. Since his career took off in the 1990s, E-40 has given us plenty of classic tracks like, “Captain Save a H**,” “Tell Me When to Go,” and so many others to name. Born Earl Stevens on November 15, 1967, in Vallejo, California, the rapper now further cements his legacy with a well-deserved honor. A short time ago, HipHopDX discovered that E-40 official got a street named after him.
Around early August, news was circulating that he was going to be receiving a street under his name. Now, it is finally official as of yesterday. E-40 took the time to thank his hometown for the prestigious acknowledgment of his career. The icon posted a picture of him next to the new street sign on his Instagram.
“Never in my wildest dreams did I ever expect to have my childhood street in Vallejo named after me! Don’t ever give up on your dreams! Thank you to the @CityofVallejo.” On top of this, he also got the key to Vallejo. It is just the second time in the city’s 173-year existence that they have given out the key. Finally, the most special part about this, is that the street is the one E-40 grew up on and tne unveiling took place right in front of the home he grew up in. Truly, this is an incredible full-circle moment for him and we at HNHH congratulates him for this amazing accomplishment.
What are your initial thoughts on E-40 getting a street name in his honor in Vallejo, California? Is he deserving of this recognition? What is your favorite E-40 album and song? We would like 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 latest breaking news around E-40, as well as everything else going on around the music world.
Vallejo, California, celebrated E-40 on October 21, 2023, designating it “E-40 Day.” The city bestowed its key to the legendary hip-hop figure in recognition of his music, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy.
Gaelen, E-40, and Vital Versatlity CEO Didier MoraisE-40 and Mistah Fab
The event, held in E-40’s hometown, also involved renaming a stretch of Magazine Street to “E-40 Way,” celebrating his roots. The ceremony was attended by notable figures and friends, underlining E-40’s local and global impact.
This honor signifies E-40’s remarkable journey from Vallejo streets to international stardom. It coincides with the 30th anniversary of his debut album, “Federal.” E-40’s music has consistently paid tribute to Magazine Street, as seen in his single “Magazine Street.”
E-40’s legacy in the music industry is iconic, having released multiplatinum albums, hit singles, and earning a record for solo album entries on the Billboard 200.
Beyond music, he’s built a thriving empire in wine and spirits and launched the “Goon With The Spoon” food brand in 2021.
E-40’s philanthropic contributions to Vallejo have included support for local schools, youth programs, and meals for those in need. He continues to inspire both as an artist and a community leader.
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