Fat Joe Archives - Page 4 of 26

Fat Joe Essential Songs

July 11, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The Bronx’s vibrant streets have birthed numerous hip-hop legends, and Fat Joe stands tall among them. His journey from rough neighborhoods to becoming a hip-hop legend is a testament to his strength and talent. Hitting the scene in the early ’90s, Joe quickly stood out with his strong presence and lyrical ability. From his beginnings with Diggin’ in the Crates Crew (D.I.T.C) to creating Terror Squad Records, Fat Joe has always found ways to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry.

Further, Fat Joe has undeniably impacted rap music with several unforgettable hits throughout his career. Not only does his music capture what’s happening on the streets, but it also resonates worldwide. These five songs are all essential pieces of Fat Joe’s career because they represent different points where he showed how universal he could be as an artist while remaining timeless in his appeal. Each one also signifies growth and just why he will go down as one of history’s greatest artists within this genre.

1. “Lean Back” – Terror Squad ft. Fat Joe & Remy Ma

In 2004, the Terror Squad released their album True Story, featuring the hit single “Lean Back.” It took over radio stations and dance floors almost immediately after its release. The track’s production got people moving, thanks to Scott Storch. This sparked a new trend where people would lean back while doing some easy but memorable steps as they danced along with it. Further, Fat Joe’s delivery of this song was also powerful, making Remy Ma’s verse stand out, making them one of the best rappers at that time.

On the Billboard Hot 100 chart, “Lean Back” reached No. 1 for three weeks straight during its run in the Top 10. It also earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group! Additionally, it became successful not only commercially but also culturally. Therefore, if there ever was any doubt about his place in hip-hop history, then tracks like these should put all those arguments to rest because they show how capable he is when creating music that large numbers can appreciate.

2. “What’s Luv?” Ft. Ashanti

Released in 2002 from Fat Joe’s album Jealous Ones Still Envy (J.O.S.E.), “What’s Luv?” became one of the early 2000s’ defining tracks. Featuring the sultry vocals of Ashanti and inspired by Tina Turner’s classic “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” the song blends hip-hop and R&B. The contagious chorus and smooth production by Irv Gotti made it a massive hit, appealing to a broad audience and receiving extensive radio play. “What’s Luv?” also peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking one of Fat Joe’s highest-charting singles. The song’s success was further cemented with its Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration nomination. “What’s Luv?” again highlighted Fat Joe’s skillset as an artist but also showed his ability to create timeless hits that echo across different music genres

3. “Make It Rain” Ft. Lil Wayne

“Make It Rain” is one of the most successful tracks from Fat Joe’s album Me, Myself & I released in 2006. The song features Lil Wayne and is characterized by the hard-hitting production by Scott Storch. The track tells about showing off money and success which goes perfectly with the high-energy beat. Hardly surprisingly, “Make It Rain” reached impressive heights on the charts – No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 6 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs. Moreover, this single has been certified platinum in digital sales by RIAA and has over a million downloads. It was also Grammy-nominated for Best Rap Performance Duo or Group. Further, its music video, directed by R Malcolm Jones, matches the opulent theme visually. These days, you still can hear “Make It Rain” being played at any club spinning Fat Joe records.

4. “All The Way Up” With Remy Ma Ft. French Montana & Infrared

Released in 2016, “All the Way Up” marked a triumphant return for Fat Joe, featuring longtime collaborator Remy Ma, along with French Montana and Infrared. The song was the lead single from Fat Joe and Remy Ma’s joint album Plata O Plomo. It features a booming beat and an anthemic chorus, showcasing the chemistry between Fat Joe and Remy.

“All the Way Up” achieved impressive commercial success, peaking at No. 27 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning platinum certification from the RIAA. The track was also nominated for two Grammy Awards: Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song. Its energy and hook made it a staple in clubs and on radio. Meanwhile, the music video, set in Miami, emphasized the song’s lavish and celebratory vibe. “All the Way Up” reinforced Fat Joe’s relevance in modern hip-hop and solidified his ability to produce hits across different eras.

5. “Flow Joe”

Unleashed in 1993 as the lead single from his debut album Represent, “Flow Joe” marked Fat Joe’s entry into mainstream hip-hop. The track features gritty lyrics and a hard-hitting prodution by Diamond D, reflecting the raw sound of early ’90s East Coast rap. It also highlights Fat Joe’s remarkable storytelling ability and his powerful presence on the mic.

“Flow Joe” also achieved notable chart success, peaking at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Rap Singles chart. It also reached No. 89 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 62 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart. The song’s success established Fat Joe as a formidable rapper and set the stage for his future music career. “Flow Joe” remains an important track in Fat Joe’s discography.

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[WATCH] Mase Recalls Big L Allegedly Setting Him Up To Be Robbed

June 27, 2024 by newhiphopnews

On one of the most recent episodes of Ma$e and Cam’s It Is What It Is sports podcast, the famed former Bad Boy rapper claimed that the late Lamont “Big L” Coleman set him up multiple times to be robbed.

Once both members of the same crew, Children of Da Corn, Ma$e and Cam got into sa few heated debates after the “Feel So Good” rapper accused the Diggin In The Crates member of biting some of his lyrics.

“Me and L start talking and the conversation goes super left you know. Next thing I know, I’m in The Tunnel [a nightclub] and the n***a Fat Joe comes up to me,” he explained. The two rappers see each other, but Joe decided not to do anything because he had no issue with Mase. “A couple months later, we get into it about something. I think it was over a chick or something,” he continued. He then recalled buying ice cream for the block on 139th Street in Harlem while rocking his first Rolex watch. “I get around the corner on 140th and I walk up 140th on seventh to 141st and a Spanish n***a just run outta nowhere like, ‘Give it up. I’ma kill both of y’all n****s.’”

Check out MA$e’s interview about Big L HERE

Ma$e and former NBA star God Shammgod Wells took off from the robber after Ma$e dropped the Rolex. Shortly afterward, he learned it was Big L who set him up.

Fat Joe previously discussed his side of the story during an interview with Angie Martinez on Hotboxin’ with Mike Tyson in 2022. At the time, he explained that he didn’t realize the person Big L asked him for help beefing against was Mase, who he was friendly with. He admitted that Mase never trusted him afterward.

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LL COOL J Returns with New Single “Saturday Night Special” Featuring Rick Ross and Fat Joe

June 14, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and two-time Grammy® Award-winning hip-hop icon LL COOL J triumphantly returns to music with his new single “Saturday Night Special” featuring Rick Ross and Fat Joe. Released via Def Jam Recordings and Virgin Music Group, the track marks LL’s comeback after a decade-long hiatus.

The new single, produced by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Q-Tip, kicks off with an innovative sonic approach. LL COOL J, Rick Ross, and Fat Joe navigate the track with lyrical finesse, depicting life’s harsh realities and intricate dynamics and the code of ethics that governs it. Named after the revolver class “Saturday Night Special,” the song explores key players in the hustle, such as the “greedy killer” who reacts violently to disrespect and the “daredevil type” who seeks attention. Emphasizing self-preservation and strategic interaction, the song’s core message revolves around trust and reciprocity in the hustle.

The minimalist, black-and-white music video, directed by JakeTheShooter with creative direction from HiHat, brings the hustler anthem to life. Shot in Miami, Florida, the video features LL, Fat Joe, and Rick Ross performing together.

“‘Saturday Night Special’ is just the beginning,” LL said. “There’s a lot more where this came from, and I’m hype for y’all to hear this new record. We’re doing this for the fans and for Hip-Hop culture.”

The single is the first release from LL’s highly anticipated 14th studio album, The FORCE (Frequencies of Real Creative Energy), set for release this fall. Executive produced by Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest, the album celebrates the 40th anniversary of Def Jam Recordings, the label that first launched LL’s career.

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Fat Joe Gets His Honorary Doctorate Degree from Lehman College

May 31, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Hip-hop icon Fat Joe was bestowed with a prestigious honor during the Lehman College commencement ceremony, marking a momentous occasion for the acclaimed rapper and the cultural recognition of the genre itself. The ceremony witnessed a fusion of academic tradition and urban culture as Fat Joe, whose real name is Joseph Antonio Cartagena, was awarded an honorary doctorate.

Fat Joe’s journey from the streets of the Bronx to receiving such distinguished recognition is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and reinvention. Born and raised in the South Bronx, a hotbed of hip-hop culture, Fat Joe emerged as a prominent figure in the genre during the 1990s. With his distinctive flow, lyrical prowess, and authentic storytelling, he carved a niche in an industry that often overlooks voices from marginalized communities.

Throughout his career, Fat Joe has left an indelible mark on the music scene and has been a philanthropist and community leader. His commitment to giving back to his roots and uplifting the next generation of artists and entrepreneurs is commendable. From supporting local initiatives to advocating for social justice causes, Fat Joe has used his platform to effect positive societal change.

As Fat Joe stood on the stage, clad in academic regalia, it was a moment of triumph for him and an entire community that has often been overlooked and underestimated. It serves as a reminder that greatness knows no boundaries of race, class, or background and that talent, hard work, and dedication can transcend any obstacle.

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[WATCH] Fat Joe Awarded Honorary Doctorate From Lehman College

May 31, 2024 by newhiphopnews

With so many high school and college graduates walking across the stage this May/June, however, one graduate that Hip Hop cannot overlook is Fat Joe, who was recently awarded a honorary doctorate degree from Lehman College in the Bronx.

Yesterday(May 30), Dr. Joseph “Fat Joe” Cartagena was awarded a Doctorate of Humane Letters, which is the standard certification for celebs with outstanding philanthropic contributions to society.

Joe took to the podium to share the secrets of success with the graduates, magnifying the fact that age should not be a deterrent.

Congrats to Fat Joe on his scholarly accomplishment, proving that anyone can improve their life through education.

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Fat Joe Is Standing Behind His Beloved Knicks After Heartbreaking Playoff Exit

May 21, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Despite the Knicks’ valiant efforts in the semifinal NBA Playoffs against the Indiana Pacers, they were unable to secure a victory. In a high-stakes game seven at Madison Square Garden, the Knicks battled hard but were ultimately outplayed by the Pacers, losing by a significant 21 points. The team’s performance was hampered by a series of injuries, which further added to their challenges. However, even in the face of their elimination from the 2024 Playoffs, Fat Joe’s support for his beloved team remains unwavering.

Fat Joe said of the Knicks season on Instagram Live after the game, “I’m proud of my team. So proud of them. Unfortunately, you gotta lose to win.” He continued, “Like we saw with OKC and we saw with all these other young teams, for some reason, they gotta lose to get that experience — to get that final instinct so they could win.” Overall, Fat Joe is proud of his beloved team and is looking forward to an even better season next year. Sometimes, teams are unlucky, and the Knicks were super unlucky on the injury front. Fat Joe is confident they will respond big time next season.

Fat Joe Sends Message To The Knicks

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He began by congratulating the Pacers on their victory and then explained why Knicks supporters were so fervent about this season. Fat Joe said, “When you lose 29 years — 29 years in a row! 29 years since the last game 7 — everyone wants to say the Knicks fans are exaggerated, we go too crazy. Nah, we been loyal fans. The arena been sold out for 29 years. A lot of y’all so-called real fans from other teams, y’all arenas be empty and you only come around when they winning at the end. Not Madison Square Garden! Sold out for 29 years.” The Knicks players’ many injuries during the series, which he believes finally put a stop to their season, were then described in detail.

He said, “We ain’t got nothing to be sad about, we got nothing to be upset about,” he concluded. “We overachievers. I wanna salute the coach, I wanna salute the players, I wanna salute the fans. Hell of a run this year. We’ll be back next year.” The Knicks will be back, and with a few smart decisions, they could be back better than ever. Jalen Brunson proved he is a superstar. They have depth and assets to flip. Overall, Fat Joe is right to be optimistic about the Knicks next season.

[via]

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Common Thought His Ice Cube Beef Was Going To End In Violence

May 18, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Common may have a reputation for being a conscious rapper, but he had no problem going at those who question his pen. He spent years going back and forth with Ice Cube over a perceived diss in his classic single “I Used to Love H.E.R.” Cube fired at Com with the seminal Westside Connection heater “Westside Slaughterhouse,” and then Common responded with the Pete Rock-produced “The B*tch In Yoo.” Great songs across the board, but things reached such a fever pitch by the late 90s that Com was concerned about the next step.

The Chicago rapper recalled his feelings on the matter during a recent appearance on 7PM In Brooklyn. He revealed that something went down between him and Cube in-person in 1995, which pushed things in an unexpected direction. “We had a little confrontation in Atlanta and this was like ’95,” he recalled. “At that point we had a little confrontation. And I was like, ‘Man, this might get ugly.’” Common credited three things with helping to close the book on the beef by 1997. The first two things were the deaths of Biggie and 2Pac following their battle. The third was the encouragement from the Nation of Islam leader, Louis Farrakhan.”

Common And Ice Cube Have Become Close Friends

The truce between Common and Ice Cube took place at the Nation of Islam headquarters in Chicago. The event was attended by rappers from all coasts, many of whom were involved in beef at one time. Snoop Dogg, Fat Joe, Mack 10, and Tha Dogg Pound were some of the most notable names. Common told the hosts that he remains grateful for Minister Farrakhan, and Ice Cube’s willingness to bury things. He assured listeners that him and Cube are close to this day. They even co-starred in Barbershop: The Next Cut together.

Common, who’s working on his next album with the man who produced his Cube diss, Pete Rock, is proud of the fact that he avoided violence. “Ultimately, I felt good that we kept it on wax,” he noted. “It was getting to that point with me and Cube. Because they was looking at me like, ‘Oh, Common’s just the backpack dude.’”

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Fat Joe Teams Up with Food For The Poor to Aid Haiti’s Humanitarian Crisis

May 3, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Grammy-nominated artist, philanthropist, and entrepreneur Fat Joe has embarked on a noble mission to aid families affected by Haiti’s recent humanitarian crisis. Partnering with Food For The Poor, Fat Joe announced establishing a relief fund to offer support and essential supplies to those enduring hardship in Haiti.

The initiative, launched during Haitian Heritage Month in May, comes in response to the surge of violence that engulfed Haiti in early March. Armed gangs perpetrated acts of violence, including burning police stations, raiding prisons, and facilitating prison breaks, leading to mass displacement and a dire humanitarian situation.

As a result, nearly half of Haiti’s population faces critical levels of food and water insecurity, along with limited access to basic hygiene necessities. In light of these tragic circumstances, Fat Joe and Food For The Poor initiated the “Fat Joe & Friends Relief For Haiti” campaign, inviting Joe’s celebrity acquaintances and supporters to contribute in three ways:

– Purchase critical items on the Amazon list HERE that will be sent directly to Food For The Poor

– Anyone in Miami can purchase those essential items and drop them off at Food For The Poor’s South Florida Distribution (6401 Lyons Rd. Coconut Creek, Florida 33073) on May 4 between 8 am ET to 5 pm ET.

– Donate directly to the relief fund HERE

“My heart goes out to all the Haitians that are suffering because of this humanitarian crisis,” Joe said. “Many of my close friends are Haitian, so we’ve been watching this tragedy unfold and exploring the most efficient and effective ways to provide meaningful support. All relief items and financial contributions will go directly to Food For The Poor, so they can safely distribute the donations directly to the families in need.”

The crisis in Haiti, compounded by recent events and ongoing challenges, demands urgent attention and concerted action. Since early March, over 53,000 people have fled Haiti’s capital to escape escalating gang violence, while thousands have lost their lives, and millions face acute food insecurity.

Fat Joe’s initiative seeks to alleviate the suffering of the Haitian people by addressing immediate needs and offering hope for a brighter future. By leveraging his platform and partnering with Food For The Poor, Fat Joe underscores the power of collective action and compassion in times of crisis, demonstrating that together, we

can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. As Haiti grapples with multiple crises, including natural disasters, civil unrest, and economic challenges, the “Fat Joe & Friends Relief For Haiti” campaign stands as a beacon of hope and solidarity, embodying the spirit of community and resilience in the face of adversity. Through this partnership, Fat Joe and Food For The Poor exemplify the transformative impact of compassion, empathy, and collective action, inspiring others to join the cause and support the people of Haiti during their time of greatest need.

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Fat Joe Sparks Controversy with Remarks on Changing Dynamics of Hip Hop: Challenges Perception of ‘Femininity’ in the Genre

April 30, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Fat Joe is Being Sued by Former NYC Shoe Store Business Partner

Hip-hop has always been a dynamic and evolving genre, reflecting the cultural shifts and societal changes of its time. Recently, rapper Fat Joe sparked a conversation within the hip-hop community when he expressed his thoughts on the growing presence of what he termed ‘femininity’ in the genre, suggesting that such expressions were less common during his era in the music industry.

In an interview, Fat Joe remarked on the changing landscape of hip-hop, noting that in his early days in the industry, the portrayal of femininity was not as prevalent as it is today. He felt nostalgic for the gritty, masculine image that characterized hip-hop during his era, contrasting it with what he perceives as a shift toward a more diverse and inclusive representation of gender and sexuality in modern hip-hop.

“In my era, we wouldn’t have seen that,” Fat Joe stated, alluding to the increasing visibility of artists who challenge traditional gender norms and embrace their femininity in their music and image. While acknowledging the importance of diversity and artistic expression, he raised questions about whether these changes depart from hip-hop culture’s roots.

Fat Joe’s comments have sparked reactions from fans and fellow artists alike. Some have applauded his candor and shared his sentiments, echoing a desire to preserve the authenticity and rawness of hip-hop as they remember it. Others have criticized his remarks as being out of touch with the evolving nature of the genre and the broader cultural shifts towards inclusivity and acceptance.

Indeed, hip hop has always reflected the realities and experiences of its creators, and as society continues to evolve, so does the music. Artists today are more vocal about issues of gender identity, sexuality, and self-expression, pushing boundaries and challenging conventional norms in ways that were perhaps less common in the past.

While Fat Joe’s remarks may have stirred controversy, they also serve as a reminder of the ongoing dialogue within the hip-hop community about the genre’s direction and the values it represents. As hip-hop continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the diverse voices and perspectives that contribute to its rich tapestry, whether they conform to traditional notions of masculinity or not.

In conclusion, Fat Joe’s questioning of the growing ‘femininity’ in hip-hop reflects a broader conversation within the genre about identity, representation, and authenticity. While his remarks may be rooted in nostalgia for the hip-hop of his youth, they also highlight the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the music and its ability to reflect the complexities of the human experience.

The post Fat Joe Sparks Controversy with Remarks on Changing Dynamics of Hip Hop: Challenges Perception of ‘Femininity’ in the Genre first appeared on The Source.

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Today In Hip Hop History: Big Pun Dropped His Debut Album ‘Capital Punishment’ 26 Years Ago

April 28, 2024 by newhiphopnews

26 years ago, on this date, Christopher Rios, aka Big Punisher, put out his first LP, Capital Punishment, on Loud Records.

Released by Fat Joe and the Terror Squad on Loud Records, Pun’s highly anticipated album showcased Pun’s unequaled lyrical ability, comedic punchlines, and ever-evolving style that his son Chris Rivers has inherited from his pops.

Album highlights include joints like “You Ain’t A Killer,” “Super Lyrical,” featuring The Roots’ Black Thought, and the platinum-selling album that propelled the album to a million sales, “Still Not A Player.”

Salute to Fat Joe, the Rios family, the Terror Squad, and the entire Loud staff for this classic!

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