On this day in Hip Hop history, Big Daddy Kane released his debut LP Long Live The Kane. Released by Cold Chillin’ Records and produced by Marley Marl, this album is one of Hip Hop’s earliest successes. Through this project, Big Daddy Kane was able to craft one of the most desirable brand in Hip Hop of the time. His ability to touch on a plethora of subjects ranging from sex to Afrocentrism made him universally appealing and easily marketable.
This album can be credited as one of the most influential LPs of the golden age of Hip Hop. Nas, Pete Rock, AZ, Gang Starr, RZA, Biggie Smalls and MF DOOM are among some of the acclaimed artists who have made directed references to either this album or Big Daddy Kane in general throughout their music. In 1998, The Source Magazine ranked this project as one of the 1000 Greatest Albums in Hip Hop. The album was certified gold in the year of its release and serves as one of the two projects from Big Daddy Kane that has sold over 500,000 copies.
On this day in Hip Hop history, St. Louis rap icon Nelly released his Grammy debut LP Country Grammar. Released by Universal Records, the unique pop-rap-country sound of this project struck well with consumers and critics alike peaking at #1 on both the Billboard 200 and Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop charts.
Whether it was intended or not, this album set the bar high for all other summertime albums to come in the new millennium. This mixture of Jason “Jay E” Epperson’s production and Nelly’s Missouri slang proved to be the perfect formula for a high energy album hosting some of the decade’s hottest party tracks.
The sing-along appeal of this project is what brought it so much commercial success. Along with topping the US music charts, this album also made chart appearances in Australia, Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, Denmark, Finland, France, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, and the UK. The album was also certified platinum in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and of course the United States (where it sold 9,000,000 copies).
The album contained hit singles “Country Grammar” (which was nominated for a Grammy), “E.I.,” “Ride Wit Me” and “Batter Up” which all made international music chart appearances. Critics across the board hailed this album as a breakthrough in Hip Hop, never before had a project come from the Midwest with so much appeal to other regions of the country.
Following this album, Nelly grew to be one of the brightest stars of the 2000’s putting out multiple multi-platinum albums and winning a plethora of awards for his musical ability. He has also since had a successful career on-screen both in films and on television.
The Microphone Fiend and his silent cohort drop their fourth and final album together on this date.
On this hot summer day in 1992, Rakim, who is widely recognized by some as the greatest MC of all time, released his fourth studio LP with William “Eric B.” Barrier entitled Don’t Sweat The Technique. This was the long-awaited follow-up to Let The Rhythm Hit ‘Em, which was a critically acclaimed album, but that was not reflective in record sales.
This album was also the last LP that Eric B. & Rakim recorded together as a duo. Produced by Eric B. with some production assistance from an up-and-coming producer by the name of Large Professor, Don’t Sweat The Technique solidified Rakim as THE best lyricist in Hip Hop.
Tracks such as “What’s On Your Mind”, which appeared on the House Party II soundtrack, “Know The Ledge”(theme from Juice), and the title track are eternal lyrical masterpieces that are unparalleled to this day. Even songs like “Casualties Of War” depicting the mentality of a conscious Black male during the era of Operation Desert Storm and the war in Iraq were instructive as well as entertaining, while virtually predicting the 9/11 tragedy almost a decade before it happened.
Salute to Rakim Allah and Eric B. for this classic album!
On this date in 1999, Missy Elliott dropped her second full length studio album Da Real World on The Goldmind/Elektra imprint.
Produced primarily by Timbaland and Missy herself, Da Real World was Missy’s most street-savvy album, saturated with sexual innuendos and underground phrases that became common household statements. Fearing the sophomore slump, Missy changed the original name of the album She’s A Bitch for more commercial acceptance; and it worked. Da Real World is currently a doube platinum classic.
memorable singles from the album include “All In My Grill”, the salacious “Hot Boyz”(Remix) featuring Eve, Nas and Lil Mo and the former title track “She’s A Bitch”.
Salute to Missy and Timbaland for creating a piece of Hi[p Hop history!
On this date in Hip Hop history, Cleveland, Ohio rap quartet Bone Thugs N Harmony dropped their very first EP Creepin’ On Ah Come Up to the world 29 years ago through the Ruthless/Relativity imprint.
Produced primarily by their mentor Eazy-E and N.W.A.’s DJ Yella, Creepin’ showcased the BTNH’s sing-song harmonious rap style, which was unprecedented at the time. The 8-track extended play featured one of their most famous tracks to date, “Thuggish Ruggish Bone” as well as one of their first video offerings, “Foe The Love Of $”. The EP was a commercial success, earning the group a certified 4x certified platinum classic.
Salute to Wish, Bizzy, Krayzie, Layzie, Eazy-E(RIP) ad the entire Ruthless crew who made this a timeless piece of Hip Hop history!
Born November 2, 1974, Albert Johnson, better known as Prodigy of Mobb Deep, was not only a rapper; But an author and an entrepreneur. Today, we recognize not only the day he passed and transitioned, but we celebrate the life and career of one of Hip Hop’s most gifted talents, and for sure one of the most recognizable voices of the genre.
Who can forget the 1995 Sophomore Album “The Infamous”? Which featured one of the illest tracks in Hip Hop History; “Shook One’s”. It’s safe to say that it was this album that catapulted not only Prodigy to superstardom, but his group mate Havoc as well. Cementing them as one of the top dips in the history of the genre.
There are so many noteworthy songs to choose from as we honor the life of Prodigy. From “Shook One’s”(Pt2) to Survival OF The Fittest. From the “I Shot Ya” Remix feat L.L. Cool J feat. Keith Murray, Prodigy, Fat Joe and Foxy Brown, to my personal favorite “Eye For An Eye”(Your Beef Is Mines) feat Nas and Raekwon.
“When I said, “I’m only 19, but my mind is old”- at that time, when I said that line, I was 18” – Prodigy
SLEEP & REIGN IN ETERNAL PEACE With THE ANCESTORS PRODIGY Of MOBB DEEP!! YOU VICARIOUSLY LIVE THROUGH YOUR LOVED ONES & Many of YOUR FANS FOREVER!!! ASE!!!
The legendary lyricist ran into a few legal snags that ultimately led to Prodigy becoming more aware of the imbalance in our justice system. In March of 2011, Prodigy was released from Mid-State Correctional Facility, in Marcy, NY after serving three years on a criminal charge for weapons possession. A term where he saw 6 months shaved off his sentence for Good Behavior.
“You have people there from all walks of life: people who made mistakes and have to deal with the consequences, mothers and fathers. You wouldn’t expect them to be behind bars.”
Prodigy often spoke of issue of injustice and the shattered relationship between African Americans and the police department’s hired to work our communities. But it was his stance on prison life that had to be his strongest due to existing health issues.
“I couldn’t afford to get sick in prison. My sickle cell is no joke, so I couldn’t eat poorly or not exercise. And everything in jail is designed to do the exact opposite”.
Prodigy was not only an elite rapper. But a reputable author as well. The Queens, NY native published several books during his career. Including, My Infamous Life: The Autobiography of Mobb Deeps Prodigy, in 2012. Other titles include – H.N.I.C: An Infamous Novella (2013) as well as a publication that surprised fans for sure; The 2016 publication, Commissary Kitchen: My Infamous Prison Cookbook.
In an interview with Vibe Magazine in November 2000, Prodigy spoke about what inspired him to directly address his life long battle with sickle-cell anemia on the song “You Can Never Feel My Pain”. Which was featured on H.N.I.C.
In a statement, Prodigy gave fans insight to his disease and what he intended on doing to spread awareness. “I have a deadly disease called Sickle Cell Anemia that I was born with that affects millions of others – primarily in the Black and Latino cultures. I feel I can inspire others with this Sickle Cell disease to be strong and believe in themselves”.
Unfortunately on the morning of June 20th, 2017, Prodigy was found unresponsive by medical staff after being admitted to Spring Valley Medical Center. He was transported to the facility after suffering a significant medical episode occurring from his life-long battle with sickle-cell anemia. It was documented that the rapper passed from “accidental choking”.
Whether it was through his published work as an author, speaking publicly on health and issues facing the black community, or simply blessing us with his rugged tone on painful tracks; Prodigy will undoubtedly live on as one of our generations leading voices on wax. A voice that will inspire many for years and decades to come.
Today, June 16, Icon Tupac Shakur would have turned 50 and even in his untimely death, he is still regarded as one of the most influential MC’s of our time
2Pac’s devoted followers look upon him as somewhat of a prophet due to his ability to remain relevant with the times long after his demise. In his music, he almost predicted events that took effect after his presence was no longer with us. In celebration of his 50th birthday, TheSource.com presents our favorite Top 5 Tupac Predictions:
Prediction #1: “Only The Good Die Young”
It was more than a tragedy/ Emotions be grabbin’ me/ Plane fell from the sky/ We tryin’ to figure what happened/ Burnin’ churches, fearin’ God who can be so cruel?”
Prior to the 911 tragedies, Pac quoted these lyrics explaining the events of the time. Regardless of whether he predicted it knowingly, the World Trade Center was indeed attacked by planes and churches are still being burned even in this era.
Prediction #2: “Changes”
And although it seems heaven sent, we ain’t ready to see a Black president.”
President Obama wasn’t ready to be in the White House when ‘Pac made the song “Changes,” but since then, this prediction has come to pass. The lyrics of this particular song are relevant even now, as he goes into the condition of Black people in America and the struggles still being faced today.
Prediction #3: “God Bless The Dead”
Rest in peace to my muthafucka Biggie Smalls…”
The erie taunt by 2Pac before either he or Big was murdered may have been one of the misfortunate misinterpretations regarding the beef that caused their demise since it wasn’t about Notorious Big or was it?
Prediction #4: “Niggaz Done Changed”
I’ve been shot and murdered, can’t tell you how it happened word for word / but best believe that niggaz’ gonna get what they deserve.”
‘The bars from “Niggaz Done Changed” are just one example of the many times Pac predicted his untimely death.
Prediction #5: “Keep Ya Head Up”
I think it’s time to kill for our women/ Time to heal our women, be real to our women/ And if we don’t we’ll have a race of babies that will hate the ladies that make the babies.”
In “Keep Ya Head Up” Pac was talking to the women of the time and gave his prediction of what would occur if the men don’t support them. Unfortunately, his prediction was correct regarding the current generation.
Happy 52nd Birthday Icon Tupac Shakur on behalf of TheSource.com
Former NWA member Ice Cube was born June 15, 1969. He has set his own mark in gangsta rap music since leaving N.W.A in 89′ and has built a successful solo career in music and film. In celebration of his birthday, here are our 5 favorite gangsta roles played by Ice Cube in his substantial movie career thus far.
1. Darin “Doughboy” Baker: Boyz In The Hood
Ice Cube’s debut role as “Doughboy” in the hood classic Boyz In The Hood, portrays a gangbanger straight out of South Central who never knew his father and lives with his uncaring mother who clearly favors his all-star football playing brother over him.
2. Fudge: Higher Learning
Cube’s role Fudge in Higher Learning portrayed an Afrocentric senior on a racist college campus. His “Black Power” stance sets the tone alongside rapper Busta Rhymes and actor Omar Epps.
3. Savon: Trespass
As “Savon” in Trespass, Cube plays a hot headeded hit man for rapper/actor Ice-T who ends up being his arch enemy by the climax of the flick.
4. Reggie: Player’s Club
As Reggie in Player’s Club, Cube depicts a broke pimp and womanizer who hangs out in the strip club looking for a come up.
5. Trey Wallace: Torque
Cube’s role as Trey Wallace was one of the leading roles of his movie career. He played the leader of a Black biker gang called the Reapers and his brother was played by rapper/actor Fredro Starr of Onyx.
The spirit of Prince reverberated through Paisley Park once again as the highly anticipated Celebration 2023, captivating fans and music enthusiasts alike. The four-day extravaganza dedicated to honoring the iconic artist featured a lineup of hip-hop and R&B legends, ensuring a memorable experience for all in attendance.
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One of the day’s highlights was the thought-provoking Hip-Hop 50 panel, which delved into Prince’s ever-evolving and complex relationship with the hip-hop genre. Presented by The Source, the panel was a meeting of legends featuring hip-hop pioneers Chuck D and Doug E. Fresh, alongside Tony M. from NPG. Guiding the conversation was none other than Prince’s longtime attorney and trusted confidant, L. Londell McMillan. The panelists engaged in a captivating discussion, shedding light on Prince’s influence on hip-hop and his boundary-pushing musical collaborations.
L. Londell McMillan moderating the Hip-Hop Panel at Celebration 2023 at Paisley Park
The surprises continued with a spontaneous performance by the incomparable Doug E. Fresh, who took the stage and skillfully intertwined his rapping prowess with Prince’s timeless hit “Kiss.” The crowd applauded as Fresh effortlessly commanded the stage, paying homage to the legendary musician.
In another captivating moment, Chaka Khan, the celebrated queen of funk, sat down for an exclusive interview with Shelby Morrison, the Director of Artist Relations & Curatorial Operations at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The conversation centered around the 25th anniversary of Khan’s groundbreaking album, “Come 2 My House,” and explored her profound connection with Prince. Khan’s anecdotes and insights provided a deeper understanding of the musical genius that united the two artists.
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Meanwhile, Paisley Park’s Studio A witnessed an exclusive live recording session featuring members of NPG. The intimate gathering allowed lucky attendees to witness the creative process firsthand as the musicians poured their hearts and souls into their craft. Following the session, a lively Q&A session ensued, offering fans a unique opportunity to gain insights into the inner workings of Prince’s musical universe.
The Celebration 2023 continued to delight with a soul-stirring performance by Shelby J., a longtime collaborator, and member of Prince’s musical family. Her electrifying stage presence and mesmerizing vocals paid tribute to the late artist’s extraordinary legacy, stirring emotions and captivating the audience.
As the night progressed, the atmosphere shifted into a pulsating dance party with DJ D-Nice taking over the turntables. The renowned DJ transformed Paisley Park into a vibrant dancefloor, spinning Prince’s hits and an eclectic mix of crowd-pleasing tunes, igniting an infectious energy that had attendees grooving into the early hours.
With each passing day, Paisley Park’s Celebration 2023 is an unparalleled tribute to Prince’s life and artistic brilliance. As fans eagerly anticipate the remaining days of this extraordinary event, the celebration continues to unite music enthusiasts from all walks of life, reinforcing Prince’s enduring impact on the world of music and beyond.
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Please visit the official website for more information on Paisley Park’s Celebration 2023 and upcoming events.
On this day in Hip Hop history, infamous Memphis underground legends Three 6 Mafia release their fourth studio album When the Smoke Clears: Sixty 6, Sixty 1. Ironically peaking at #6 on the Billboard 200 chart, this project brought Three 6 Mafia that much closer to penetrating the mainstream with their unique style of horrorcore Hip Hop. To follow the theme of the previous two albums, this album’s title continues on the post-apocalyptic theme that can be translated to the groups (successful) attempt to take over the mainstream Hip Hop industry insinuating that “when the smoke clears” Three 6 Mafia will still be around standing strong.
One of the attributes that set this album apart from anything Three 6 has put out in the past is the number of features that come with it. UGK, Insane Clown Posse, Big Gipp, Mr. Serv-On, Fiend, and Twiztid all made appearances on the project. This album also toted some of Three Six Mafia’s most popular and recognizable tracks including “Sippin’ On Some Sizzurp” and “I’m So Hi” which both grew to be staples of underground rap history.
Commercially, this album opened the door for Three 6 Mafia to ensure their place among some of the titans of the era. Selling 1,000,000 copies in the year of its release, When The Smoke Clears allowed the group to have the following they needed for their forthcoming film Choices to be as successful as it was.
Following this album, Three 6 Mafia bloomed on the rap scene going on to release six more highly successful albums as well two films and an Oscar for their work on the Hustle and Flow soundtrack making them the only rap group to receive the award.
