The latter part of 2023 has been heavy on the freestyling. Over the past couple of months, we have seen various legends and new stars flex their lyrical prowess over other artists’ beats. For example, Drake put everyone up to the challenge to spit on top of the instrumentals for his For All The Dogs Scary Hours Edition. An EP was put out in late November of strictly the beats of the six additional tracks. A couple of rappers accepted the challenge, including Fabolous.
One of New York’s finest talents took Drake’s comments to heart by laying down bars on top of “Evil Ways.” Since that time, Fabolous has seemingly been inspired by that as he has begun his freestyle abilities to the test in a different way. Last week, Fab kickstarted a series where every Friday he would drop a new freestyle. “Benzgiving” was the first to hit the market and its racked up nearly one million views.
According to HipHopDX, Fabolous recently took a trip to the small town of Tulum, which is located in southern Mexico. The hitmaker posted about his visit on Instagram, which turned out to be for a celebration of his birthday. It is where he also posted the music video for the freestyle, inspired by his stay. “Tuluminati” is on YouTube as well.
What are your initial thoughts on this brand-new single and freestyle, “Tuluminati,” by Fabolous? Is this the best song from this series he is doing so far, why or why not? Where do you rank him amongst the rest of the New York rappers of all time? Should he release all of the freestyles he does and put them on an album? 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 hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Fabolous. Finally, stay with us for all of the best song releases throughout the week.
DOPE Shows, marking seven years of unparalleled success, achieved another milestone with the sold-out 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop Concert at The Met in Philadelphia. This historic event, in collaboration with Live Nation, featured a stellar lineup including Jeezy and Fabolous, along with local legends Freeway, Boo Bonic, and Spade-O.
As 3500 enthusiastic fans flooded into the venue, DOPE Shows reaffirmed its position as the undefeated #1 Promotion Agency in the Northeast. The evening unfolded with a vibrant celebration of Philadelphia’s rich Hip-Hop heritage, featuring local talents such as Meer Sosa. Spade-O and Boo Bonic delivered classic songs, and Freeway performed timeless anthems, joined by Philly veteran Young Chris.
The anticipation peaked as headliners Fabolous and Jeezy graced the stage, creating a nostalgic atmosphere with hits spanning their illustrious careers. Fabolous celebrated his birthday with a parade of fan favorites, while Jeezy took the audience on an electrifying journey through decades of Hip-Hop history, performing iconic tracks.
DOPE Shows, lauded by Billboard as one of the most powerful independent concert promotion companies in the U.S., has sold over 200,000 tickets in a remarkable six-year run. Known for bringing era-defining artists to local stages, they continue to be crucial catalysts for emerging superstars, connecting performers with eager local fans.
The 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop Concert was a testament to DOPE Shows’ enduring impact on the live music scene, showcasing extraordinary performances and paying heartfelt tribute to Philadelphia’s role in shaping the history of this beloved art form.
JeezyandFabolous took the stage by storm at the DOPE Shows and Live Nation’s Hip Hop’s 50th concert, delivering electrifying performances that showcased their legendary status in the genre. With a high-energy crowd, these hip-hop icons proved why they remain at the top of their game, delighting fans with hit after hit.
Freeway Remembers His Late Son
Jeezy and Fabolous took the stage on Nov. 18th and 19th at the DOPE Shows and Live Nation’s Hip Hop 50th concert, captivating the crowd with their incredible performances. The energy in the venue was palpable as fans eagerly awaited the arrival of these hip-hop heavyweights.
On Nov. 18, the first night, Philadelphia rapper Freeway stole the show with his rendition of “What We Do.” The crowd erupted in excitement, fully engaging with the performance.
The “Flip Side” rapper took a moment to reflect on the meaning behind the song, dedicating it to his late son who passed away in 2019. Emotion flooded the stage as he delivered a powerful message, urging the audience to end senseless violence and embrace love and unity.
He stated:
“I do this for my kid… we need to stop killing each other and love on one another.”
Fabolous Sets The Stage On Fire
The New York rapper, celebrating his 46th birthday, brought the house down with his timeless 2004 classic, “Breathe.”
The crowd sang along to every lyric, creating a moment of pure nostalgia. The connection between Fabolous and his fans was undeniable as everyone vibed to the familiar beats and rhymes. The rapper proved that his impact on hip-hop is still as powerful as ever.
Adding to the excitement of the event, Boo-Bonic of rap group Philly’s Most Wanted took the stage, performing his hits produced by the legendary duo The Neptunes – Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo. The crowd went wild as his electrifying performance filled the venue with energy and enthusiasm.
Jeezy Takes Over Philly
On Nov. 19, Jeezy, hailing from Columbia, South Carolina, took the stage to deliver an unforgettable performance.
The “Trap or Die” rapper kicked off his set with the iconic 2005 hit “Soul Survivor” and continued to captivate the audience with his 2008 single “Put On.” Fans rushed to the front of the stage, singing along with every word, showcasing their connection to Jeezy’s music and its impact on their lives.
The DOPE Shows allowed hip-hop fans in Philadelphia to witness incredible performances by their favorite artists and connect with them on a deeper level. The event provided a platform for artists to share their personal stories and messages, reminding everyone of the power of hip-hop to unite and inspire.
Updated By: Kynedei Iman Hobbs (11/20/23 at 7:01 pm)
Jeezy & Fabolous Set To Headline DOPE Shows’ Hip-Hop 50 Concert
DOPE Shows is partnering with Live Nation to organize hip-hop’s 50th concert celebration, featuring headliners Jeezy and Fabolous. It will serve as a historical celebration, showcasing the genre’s enduring impact on music and culture.
DOPE Shows Presents
On November 18, DOPE Shows, an influential independent Concert Promotion Agency founded by Jamir Shaw and Stephen Piner and operating in Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Delaware, is partnering with Live Nation to organize a grand celebration for hip-hop’s 50th anniversary. The event will occur at The Met Philadelphia, an iconic venue in the city’s music scene.
The star-studded event will be headlined by legendary hip-hop trailblazers Jeezy and Fabolous.
Geoff Gordon, Regional President of Live Nation Northeast, shares his excitement about the collaboration, expressing his respect for the founders’ vision and passion for their artists.
“With an eye towards the 50th anniversary of hip hop in 2023, we look forward to working closely with our new partners at DOPE Shows to celebrate this milestone with a series of shows across many of our Northeast territories. Our role as promoters is to help artists achieve their goals. I greatly respect Jamir and Stephen for sharing that same vision and passion for their artists.”
DOPE Shows founders Jamir Shaw and Stephen Piner express their excitement about partnering with Live Nation, saying:
“After years of being an ally and friend of Geoff Gordon’s, it feels good to partner with a legend in the game. Together we plan to show the world that there Ain’t No Shows Like Dope Shows!”
DOPE Shows’ Success
For over six years, DOPE Shows, founded in 2017,successfully sold over 200,000 tickets for shows featuring hip-hop artists such as Lil Baby, Lil Durk, and A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie. Their upcoming venture includes bringing Rylo Rodriguez, signed to Lil Baby’s 4PF label, to The Fillmore Philadelphia for his first headlining performance on September 29, marking another milestone in their journey.
As DOPE Shows continues to ascend in the industry, they are expanding their involvement to the label side of the music business with the launch of DOPE Records in 2022. One of their artists, TOURE, achieved remarkable success with his EP, All I Wanted Was Everything, which garnered nearly a million streams in less than a week.
Stephen and Jamir’s future aspirations include venturing into the hospitality industry, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that DOPE Shows becomes a lasting and cherished institution in both their lives and the city of Philadelphia.
Jeezy & Fabolous Making Moves
In reference to Fabolous, the New York rapper was part of the rap documentary, Mixtape. The trailer debut showcases an impressive lineup of influential artists, including Lil Wayne, Jadakiss, and DJ Clue. This documentary highlights the importance of mixtapes in the hip-hop genre and their impact on artists’ careers.
As for Jeezy, the “Put On” rapper took the stage alongside Atlanta rapper T.I., Gucci Mane, and Rick Ross at the Legendz Of The Streetz Tour in February 2023. The southern crowd in Houston, Texas, embraced every hit the rap icons performed, creating an electric atmosphere.
Public Enemy & Ice T Set To Headline National Celebration Of Hip-Hop’s 50th Celebration
Speaking of hip-hop’s 50th, Public Enemy and Ice-T are set to headline the National Celebration of Hip-Hop’s 50th Anniversary. The concert will occur at West Potomac Park at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., in October 2023.
Today, three-time, Grammy award-winning hitmaker NE-YO unveiled a new remix to his single “Link Up (feat. Fabolous),” which is currently available to stream on all platforms HERE via Motown Records/Compound Entertainment.
NE-YO and Fabolous also dropped a fresh visual to accompany the remix, directed by Azzie Scott, view HERE.In the black-and-white visual, the duo adds their own flair to the rejuvenated sample of Michael Wycoff’s 1980s R&B hit “Looking Up To You” produced by Hitmaka, Cardiak and Wu10.
The remix showcases Fabolous’ signature wordplay paired with NE-YO’s smooth vocals in what marks the latest iteration of their longstanding string of collaborations. The creative partnership between these two titans dates back to “She Got Her Own” with Jamie Foxx and Fabolous’s “Make Me Better” [feat. NE-YO]—which rose to #8 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Over the years, the dynamic duo have also collaborated on “Crazy Love” from NE-YO’s Libra album and “Should Be You” from the R&B hitmaker’s R.E.D. album. The remix also comes after NE-YO originally dropped “Link Up” in late-September as he finalized his nationwide “Champagne and Roses Tour”with Mario andspecial guest Pleasure P.
Earlier this year, NE-YO shined on a wide array of stages, including a headlining performance at The White House’s 4th of July celebration on the South Lawn. He also delivered his iconic hits at Michael Rubin’s renowned, Hamptons white party that brought together the biggest titans in business, entertainment, sports and music.
“Link Up” marks his first release since hiseighth studio album,Self Explanatory, which included collaborations with Yung Bleu, Jeremih and Trippie Redd.His collaboration with Jeremih on “U 2 Luv” topped Billboard’s Adult R&B Airplay chart for three weeks.
In his career to date, NE-YO has a combined total of over 23 BILLION streams worldwide. He has won three GRAMMY awards and been honored with a total of 14 nominations. His first single, 2005’s “So Sick,” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and was certified quadruple Platinum. Since then, he has racked up a collection of hit singles – including “Sexy Love,” “Closer,” “Because of You,” “Miss Independent” and “Push Back” featuring Bebe Rexha and Stefflon Don.
By now, most of the internet has grown tired of the never-ending headlines surrounding Jada Pinkett Smith and her juicy new memoir. The mother of two didn’t hold back when reflecting on the ups and downs of her life, from her marriage to Will Smith (which she’s since confirmed has seen them living separate lives since 2016) to her close friendship with the late Tupac Shakur. Though she says she didn’t have romantic feelings for him, Jada is under the impression that the “All Eyez On Me” hitmaker was her “soulmate,” and also alleged that he struggled with alopecia, similarly to her.
Even before we knew the finer details of what was going on behind closed doors in Will and Jada’s life, the internet often clowned The Fresh Prince actor for his wife’s inability to let Tupac go. Things are only becoming more intense amid the memoir’s debut. Still, Will remains unbothered and focused on his own energy. For her part, The Matrix actress continues to promote her book while linking up with other celebs – some of whom have given her epic gifts.
Among them is Fat Joe, who came through with an exclusive pair of Terror Squad Air Force 1 sneakers for Jada. Of course, she was happy to add the shoes to her collection, but there are still some who are trying to bring Tupac into the situation. As Fabolous pointed out, the TS initials on the kicks could just as easily represent the Baltimore native’s full name as it does Joe’s New York-based rap group. Elsewhere online, others have pointed out that they might even be seen as standing for “The Slap,” when Will struck Chris Rock across the face at the Oscars for insulting his co-parent.
The hottest topic in pop culture news this week has definitely been the controversy surrounding Jada Pinkett Smith’s memoir. Besides addressing her unconventional marriage to Will, the Girls Trip actress also reflected on her past selling hard drugs as a teenager. Read Dipset alum Jim Jones’ reaction to that at the link below, and check back later for more music/pop culture news updates.
DOPE Shows is organizing hip-hop’s 50th concert celebration, featuring headliners Jeezy and Fabolous. It will serve as a historical celebration, showcasing the genre’s enduring impact on music and culture. DOPE Shows Presents On November 18, DOPE Shows, an influential independent Concert Promotion Agency, based in Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Delaware, is organizing a grand celebration […]
Fabolous made his studio debut 22 years ago on this day.
The Brooklyn rapper released his freshman album, Ghetto Fabolous on one of the worst days in New York: 9/11.
Despite the tragic day and being met with mixed reviews, the album was a commercial success. The collection peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 charts, moving 143,180 copies.
The album spawned three singles, “Can’t Deny It” featuring the late Nate Dogg, “Young’n (Holla Back)” produced by The Neptunes, and “Trade It All” featuring Jagged Edge.
The album also had production contributions from DJ Clue, Rockwilder, Timbaland, Rick Rock, Just Blaze, DURO, Omen, Rush Da Spyda, Armando Colon, DJ Envy, and Mono.
Billboard reported that Ghetto Fabolous sold over a million copies in 2003, making it certified platinum.
J. Cole is celebrating the women in Hip-Hop. Cole is the latest rap icon to sit with Kevin Hart for his Hart to Hart interview series on Peacock. During the conversation, the Dreamville leader highlighted the work women are putting in across the industry.
“It’s a whole different ball game,” Cole opened. “I’ve been feeling this for like maybe a year or two. I hate to say it cause it almost sounds like pandering, but I really do think like, man, it’s a lot of fire female rappers.
“You always had a Lil Kim, a Foxy, but there could never be more than one almost it felt like. Now, we’re getting moments and moments and moments. I think it’s hard.”
Those comments contrast those of Fabolous, who recently stirred controversy with his remarks regarding female rap. In an interview, he expressed his thoughts on the current state of female artists in the genre, drawing criticism from both fans and fellow artists. While some argue that his comments were taken out of context, others view them as perpetuating harmful stereotypes and undermining the progress made by women in rap music.
Fabolous suggested that female rappers are focused more on their image and sexuality rather than their lyrical prowess. He stated that female artists are using their sex appeal as a primary marketing strategy, which, according to him, overshadows their actual talent.
“Love hearing the female rappers talking some real sitt,” Fab said. “Women are so strong, have so many stories and perspectives that we need to hear in pure form.
“No disrespect to any of the female rappers out, but I think there’s only one style of female rap/hip hop being promoted, programmed, and looked at as successful now.”
Fabolous with a message for the women who rap in 2023. how do y’all feel about this ? pic.twitter.com/NreGnB9ViZ
These remarks ignited a backlash as many felt that he was disregarding the hard work and artistic abilities of female rappers who have achieved significant success.
Fabolous recently stirred controversy with his remarks regarding female rap. In an interview, he expressed his thoughts on the current state of female artists in the genre, drawing criticism from both fans and fellow artists. While some argue that his comments were taken out of context, others view them as perpetuating harmful stereotypes and undermining the progress made by women in rap music.
Fabolous suggested that female rappers are focused more on their image and sexuality rather than their lyrical prowess. He stated that female artists are using their sex appeal as a primary marketing strategy, which, according to him, overshadows their actual talent.
“Love hearing the female rappers talking some real sitt,” Fab said. “Women are so strong, have so many stories and perspectives that we need to hear in pure form.
“No disrespect to any of the female rappers out, but I think there’s only one style of female rap/hip hop being promoted, programmed, and looked at as successful now.”
Fabolous with a message for the women who rap in 2023. how do y’all feel about this ? pic.twitter.com/NreGnB9ViZ
These remarks ignited a backlash as many felt that he was disregarding the hard work and artistic abilities of female rappers who have achieved significant success.
Critics argue that Fabolous’ comments reflect a pervasive bias in the music industry that disproportionately scrutinizes and undermines women in rap. They assert that female artists are often subjected to heightened scrutiny regarding their appearance, sexuality, and lyrical content, while male counterparts are granted more leniency. This double standard perpetuates gender inequality and hinders the growth and recognition of talented women in the genre.
In recent years, the rise of female rap artists such as Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, and Nicki Minaj has shattered barriers and garnered widespread acclaim. These artists have dominated the charts and delivered exceptional lyricism and compelling storytelling in their music. Their success has demonstrated that female rappers are multifaceted artists with valuable contributions to the hip-hop landscape.
Moreover, female rap artists have used their platforms to address social issues, empower women, and provide representation for underrepresented communities. They have challenged traditional notions of femininity, unapologetically embraced their sexuality, and defied societal expectations. By doing so, they have paved the way for a more inclusive and diverse industry.
While Fabolous’ criticism sparked an important conversation about gender dynamics in rap music, it is crucial to recognize the achievements and contributions of female artists. The rap industry should continue encouraging and supporting talented women, providing them equal opportunities to thrive and succeed. By celebrating their skills, authenticity, and unique perspectives, we can foster an environment that cultivates the growth of female rap and promotes gender equality in the music industry as a whole.
Fans of hip hop have been eagerly awaiting the release of the upcoming rap documentary, “Mixtape.” The trailer debut showcases an impressive lineup of influential artists, including Lil Wayne, Jadakiss, Fabolous, and DJ Clue. This star-studded cast, alongside notable guest appearances such as DJ Green Lantern, A$AP Rocky, 2 Chainz, DJ Khaled, and KRS-One, sets […]
