Exclusives

Today In Hip Hop History: N.W.A. Dropped Their Second LP ‘Straight Outta Compton’ 35 Years Ago

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On 8/8/88, Ice Cube, MC Ren, DJ Yella, Eazy E, along with the legendary Dr. Dre from the World Class Wreckin’ Crew put together the second N.W.A. album called Straight Outta Compton. This album came on the heels of Eazy E’s debut release, Eazy E, and The Posse, which led Eazy E and his Ruthless Records label partner Jerry Heller to put out another release exploiting the gang culture that saturated the West Coast, giving birth to what is known as “gangsta rap’. Their debut release, N.W.A. And The Posse was already certified and had anticipating fans around the world the second time around.

Some of the most lethal, straight no chaser lyrical assaults can be heard on tracks like the “Dopeman” remix, “Gangsta Gangsta,” and the anti-cop anthem “Fuck The Police.” What made this album so unique was that it rose to platinum status with no radio play or major promotion. The album even drew attention from the federal government, with the FBI and U.S. Secret Service sending letters to Ruthless about the violent message of “Fuck The Police.” N.W.A.’s popularity with the law increased their fan base and record sales. This album was also when Dr. Dre was officially recognized as the legendary producer he has evolved into today. Careers from both coasts and everywhere in between was created from the Straight Outta Compton prototype.

The Source salutes Cube, Ren, Dre, the Wright family, DJ Yella, and the Arabian Prince for this unforgettable masterpiece!

The post Today In Hip Hop History: N.W.A. Dropped Their Second LP ‘Straight Outta Compton’ 35 Years Ago first appeared on The Source.

The post Today In Hip Hop History: N.W.A. Dropped Their Second LP ‘Straight Outta Compton’ 35 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

Yung Joc Mourns the Death of His Mother: ‘Such a Real 1’

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Condolences and prayers go out to Yung Joc who is mourning the death of his mother.

I don’t have much to say…………… Thank you for all of life’s lessons and blessings…. Such a real 1…. you waited on me today and allowed me to pray with you and you took your last breath……. We had some laughs and we cried together along the way…… I am at peace Momma……. thank you for allowing me & squirt to help you fight…. thank you thank you 🙏🏾 I hope I made you proud momma.”

According to HipHopDX, Joc’s mom disclosed her battle with cancer during an episode of Love & Hip-Hop: Atlanta.

The post Yung Joc Mourns the Death of His Mother: ‘Such a Real 1’ first appeared on The Source.

The post Yung Joc Mourns the Death of His Mother: ‘Such a Real 1’ appeared first on The Source.

Congrats! Ciara Announces She and Russell Wilson Are Expecting Another Baby

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Ciara on Twitter “You look at me like that again we make another kid… You my heart I’m your rib” 🥰😘❤️ DangeRussWilson https t co 9mRrp2B654 X

Ciara has announced she and Russell Wilson are expecting another child. In a black and white video uploaded to X, Ciara stands in front of a swimming pool before pivoting to reveal a baby bump. She then begins to two-step poolside.

Ciara’s announcement is coupled with lyrics from her new single “How We Roll”:

Top off summer in the wind
You look at me like that again
We make another kid
You my heart, i’m your rib
If I ever had to for you, I would do a bid

In March 2022, Ciara guest hosted The Ellen De Genres Show and was joined by Wilson for the special occasion. During the show, Ciara admitted and joked to the audience that Russell’s presence made her nervous. After giving her a large bouquet of roses, Wilson bent down on one knee, popping the question:  “I have a question for you. Serious question. Can we have more babies?”

The couple are parents to son Win Harrison and daughter Sienna Princess. Ciara is also the mother to Future Zahir, whom she shared with Future.

Just last week, Ciara announced her return, prepping her new EP, CiCi, for Aug 18. The release will come on her Beauty Marks Entertainment label. You can see the video for “How We Roll” below.

The post Congrats! Ciara Announces She and Russell Wilson Are Expecting Another Baby first appeared on The Source.

The post Congrats! Ciara Announces She and Russell Wilson Are Expecting Another Baby appeared first on The Source.

Iggy Azalea Dragged on Social Media for Penning Letter to Judge in Support of Tory Lanez

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Iggy Azalea Unveils her Son's Name

Iggy Azalea wrote a letter of support for Tory Lanez to aid his sentencing. According to reporter Meghann Cuniff, Azalea’s letter was one of 70 written supporting the Chixtape rapper. The letter sent a sharp response Iggy’s way on social media.

As his sentencing began, the court was back in session for Tory Lanez on Monday. In a letter from Megan Thee Stallion, the rap superstar says she cannot be in a room with Lanez and has yet to find peace.

Thee Stallion’s statement revealed that not only is she still reeling from the trauma, Lanez has yet to take responsibility for his actions. According to TMZ, Hot Girl Meg stated first, Lanez attempted to blame the system and is not attempting to use childhood trauma as an excuse.

Lanez was supposed to receive his sentence on Monday, but the hearing will continue on Tuesday as time ran over. Prosecutors want Lanez to serve 13 years.

Tory Lanez‘s legal team continues to push for reduced sentencing. Instead of time in jail, Lanez is seeking probation and a drug treatment program.

Providing updates on the court case is Law&Crime reporter Meghann Cuniff who states Lanez’s attorneys, Jose Baez and Ed Welbourn, filed a 41-page memo detailing reasons for the shooting. The two-state Lanez was battling alcoholism and included a report from a psychologist in jail citing a traumatic childhood as aiding the condition. During that childhood, his mother passed away at age 11, and living in a “crack-infested” neighborhood.

The report also states that after Lanez became successful, he leaned on alcohol and weed to deal with his past. The team also pointed to Lanez’s community service as a reason.

The post Iggy Azalea Dragged on Social Media for Penning Letter to Judge in Support of Tory Lanez first appeared on The Source.

The post Iggy Azalea Dragged on Social Media for Penning Letter to Judge in Support of Tory Lanez appeared first on The Source.

Biz Markie’s Wife Claims the Late Rapper’s Instagram is Being Held Hostage

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Biz Markie's Wife Claims the Late Rapper's Instagram is Being Held Hostage

The wife of late Hip-Hop icon Biz Markie, Tara Hall, has started the “Save Biz Markies IG” hashtag after claiming his former manager holds his Instagram account hostage.

AllHipHop reports Hall notes Markie’s former manager will not give up access to the account and is posting without consent. She notes Markie’s IG was a “special place” where he would connect with his friends, and she wants to respect and honor that legacy.

“I kindly request your support and solidarity during this time,” Hall wrote. “If you have any fond memories, photos, or messages you’d like to share about Biz Markie, please feel free to do so and tag @just.a.friend.foundation to keep his memory alive. We are seeking assistance from the Instagram community and the wider hip-hop family to raise awareness about this situation. Together, we can ensure that Biz Markie’s digital presence remains a place of love, positivity, and remembrance.”

The post Biz Markie’s Wife Claims the Late Rapper’s Instagram is Being Held Hostage first appeared on The Source.

The post Biz Markie’s Wife Claims the Late Rapper’s Instagram is Being Held Hostage appeared first on The Source.

YK Osiris Accused of Running Out on $20K Watch Bill

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YK Osiris Laughs Off Old Rumor of Being Diddy's "Boy Toy"

YK Osiris has been accused of running out on a $20,000 bill for an Audemars Piguet watch he was set to buy years ago.

According to TMZ, celebrity jewelry designer Seth Grossman stated he received Osiris as a client from Sean Kingston, whom he frequently worked with. The two connected before COVID-19, with Osiris agreeing to buy the watch off Grossman’s wrist.

The watch is a 39 mm Automatic Audemars Piguet Royal Oak with Date. The watch is steel on a steel bracelet with a white waffle dial.

Seth says YK took the jeweler’s information to wire the $20,000, but the star has yet to pay a dime. YK also told the jeweler that he gave the watch to Sean Kingston to return and, in a separate story, said his father stole the watch.

YK Osiris is no longer on the Def Jam roster and hasn’t been for quite a while. The deal between the two was nixed in December 2022.

According to TMZ Hip-Hop, Osiris was dropped from Def Jam, but there is reportedly “no bad blood” between the two sides. Both sides stated the relationship had no legs for the future.

During his time on the roster, Osiris released one album, The Golden Child, which went gold. His biggest single was “Worth It,” which went 3x platinum.

The post YK Osiris Accused of Running Out on $20K Watch Bill first appeared on The Source.

The post YK Osiris Accused of Running Out on $20K Watch Bill appeared first on The Source.

Megan Thee Stallion Says She Has No Peace Since Tory Lanez Shooting, Blasts Use Childhood Trauma Defense

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Tory Lanez Music Streams Decline 40% After Being Called Out By Megan Thee Stallion

As his sentencing began, the court was back in session for Tory Lanez on Monday. In a statement by Megan Thee Stallion, the rap superstar says she cannot be in a room with Lanez and has yet to find peace.

Thee Stallion’s statement revealed that not only is she still reeling from the trauma, Lanez has yet to take responsibility for his actions. According to TMZ, Hot Girl Meg stated first, Lanez attempted to blame the system and is not attempting to use childhood trauma as an excuse.

Lanez was supposed to receive his sentence on Monday, but the hearing will continue on Tuesday as time ran over. Prosecutors want Lanez to serve 13 years.

Tory Lanez‘s legal team continues to push for reduced sentencing. Instead of time in jail, Lanez is seeking probation and a drug treatment program.

Providing updates on the court case is Law&Crime reporter Meghann Cuniff who states Lanez’s attorneys, Jose Baez and Ed Welbourn, filed a 41-page memo detailing reasons for the shooting. The two-state Lanez was battling alcoholism and included a report from a psychologist in jail citing a traumatic childhood as aiding the condition. During that childhood, his mother passed away at age 11, and living in a “crack-infested” neighborhood.

The report also states that after Lanez became successful, he leaned on alcohol and weed to deal with his past. The team also pointed to Lanez’s community service as a reason.

DJ Akademiks still isn’t convinced that Tory Lanez shot Megan Thee Stallion. Sitting with Vlad TV, Ak revealed that he understands the verdict but still has questions.

“I thought he didn’t do it,” Akademiks said. “I’m a little doubtful, but the verdict is the verdict. I think the people who were reporting at court at that time were biased based on what they already though.”

The post Megan Thee Stallion Says She Has No Peace Since Tory Lanez Shooting, Blasts Use Childhood Trauma Defense first appeared on The Source.

The post Megan Thee Stallion Says She Has No Peace Since Tory Lanez Shooting, Blasts Use Childhood Trauma Defense appeared first on The Source.

[WATCH] Kanye West Makes Appearance at Travis Scott’s ‘CIRCUS MAXIMUS’ Show in Rome

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Kanye West has returned to the stage. During Travis Scott’s CIRCUS MAXIMUS show broadcasting live from Rome, Italy, Ye appeared on stage in all black.

As Ye took the stage, Travis Scott put the fans on notice: “Only one human being on this mother f***ing planet that has ever walked side by side with me through anything and every mother f***ing thing.”

Later on in his set, Scott also said, “There is no UTOPIA without Kanye West, there is no Travis Scott without Kanye West, there is no Rome without Kanye West”

During Ye’s time on stage, he performed “Praise God” and returned to his Graduation days for “Can’t Tell Me Nothing.” You can see the social media footage below.

The post [WATCH] Kanye West Makes Appearance at Travis Scott’s ‘CIRCUS MAXIMUS’ Show in Rome first appeared on The Source.

The post [WATCH] Kanye West Makes Appearance at Travis Scott’s ‘CIRCUS MAXIMUS’ Show in Rome appeared first on The Source.

DJ Casper, Creator of “Cha Cha Slide,” Dead at 58

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DJ Casper, Creator of "Cha Cha Slide," Dead at 58

DJ Casper, the creator of the iconic single “Cha Cha Slide,” died at 58. According to Samantha Chatman of ABC News Chicago, the Windy City legend lost his battle with cancer on Monday. Chatman also had his last television interview.

DJ Casper revealed the “Cha Cha Slide” single was created for an aerobic exercise for his nephew’s class at Bally’s Total Fitness. “From there, it just took off. Elroy Smith from WGCI grabbed ahold of it,” Casper said.

“I have one of the biggest songs that played at all stadiums: hockey, basketball, football, baseball; they played it at the Olympics,” Casper said. “It was something that everybody could do.”

DJ Casper revealed to Chatman the challenges to his health resulted in a loss of 60 pounds and trouble eating. He suffered from renal and Neuroendocrine cancer, which affected the kidney and liver.

In his last interview, he stated, “Anybody that’s going through cancer, know that you have cancer and cancer does not have you.”

DJ Casper passed away with his loved ones by his side.

The post DJ Casper, Creator of “Cha Cha Slide,” Dead at 58 first appeared on The Source.

The post DJ Casper, Creator of “Cha Cha Slide,” Dead at 58 appeared first on The Source.

Today in Hip-Hop History: Jadakiss Dropped His Debut Album ‘Kiss Tha Game Goodbye’ 22 Years Ago

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On this date in Hip Hop history, Jason Phillips aka Jadakiss released his first full-length studio album Kiss Tha Game Goodbye on the Ruff Ryders/Interscope imprint.

Regarded as one of the most anticipated releases within the month of the 9/11 tragedy(which also includes Jay-Z’s Blueprint and Fabolous’ debut Ghetto Fabolous), Jadakiss’ premiere project Kiss Tha Game Goodbye provides a peek into the L.O.X.’s star emcee and the album succession that has led him all the way to the offices of Roc Nation, where he is now on the roster. It was also proof that an emcee whose career began on a mixtape could actually morph into a full music career.

Singles from Jada’s certified gold debut include the album’s lead single “Knock Yourself Out”, the anthemic “We Gonna Make It” featuring L.O.X./D-Block cohort Styles P and other appearances including labelmate DMX, Snoop Dogg, the late Nate Dogg, and even Swizz Beatz ex-wife Mashonda.

Salute to Jada, Swizz, The L.O.X., Pharrell, DJ Premier, Just Blaze and everyone else who took part in making this album a part of Hip Hop history!

The post Today in Hip-Hop History: Jadakiss Dropped His Debut Album ‘Kiss Tha Game Goodbye’ 22 Years Ago first appeared on The Source.

The post Today in Hip-Hop History: Jadakiss Dropped His Debut Album ‘Kiss Tha Game Goodbye’ 22 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.