EMMY® and GRAMMY® award-winning artist Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson concluded his exhilarating Final Lap Tour with back-to-back sold-out shows at Barclays Center, leaving fans in awe.
The first night featured surprise performances that set the stage ablaze, including J. Cole, Jadakiss, DaBaby, Flo-Rida, and more. J. Cole’s dynamic collaboration with 50 Cent on “No Role Modelz” was a highlight, with J. Cole dubbing “Get Rich or Die Tryin’” the greatest album ever. Busta Rhymes and Jeremih also graced the stage, while Slick Rick and Baby Cham made memorable appearances.
Thursday’s show brought even more surprises, featuring Fat Joe, Bobby Shmurda, Young M.A., Phresher, and Sleepy Hallow. Fat Joe’s energetic rendition of “Lean Back” alongside 50 Cent was a crowd-pleaser, followed by a solo performance of “All The Way Up.” Notable guests, including T.I., Lala Anthony, and Kash Doll were also in attendance.
With an already staggering 900,000 tickets sold worldwide, the Final Lap Tour’s monumental 94-date journey continues across North America this summer before venturing overseas. For those eager to witness this historic tour, visit 50Cent.com for the remaining tickets and tour dates.
Video footage has surfaced from E. 99th Street and St. Clair Avenue in Cleveland, Ohio, where melodic Hip Hop quartet Bone Thugs N Harmony was honored with a street naming after the monumental group discovered by N.W.A. founder Eazy-E.
The City of Cleveland held a two-hour ceremony at the now coveted intersection, which has been renamed “Bone Thugs-n-Harmony Way’. The footage above shows Bizzy and Krayzie watch the new sign be unveiled as onlookers cheered.
This is an integral commemoration, being that today(August 11) marks the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop music and shows the expansion of a culture birthed in the South Bronx, which expanded to every city and town in the world.
As hip-hop marks its monumental 50th anniversary on August 11, Apple Music is joining the celebration with a series of exciting initiatives that pay homage to the genre’s legacy. To honor this pivotal milestone and in collaboration with Apple Music’s yearlong tribute to hip-hop’s founding figures, the platform is making hard-to-find, iconic hip-hop mixtapes available for streaming for the first time.
Listeners can now groove to DJ mixtape legend Kid Capri’s legendary creations, including “52 Beats,” “Old School R&B Vol.2,” and “10/9/89,” within Apple Music’s exclusive Hip-Hop DNA collection. This curated collection also features a range of audio specials, exclusive DJ Mixes, handpicked classic records, and essential playlists that capture the essence of hip-hop’s diverse and influential soundscape.
“Hip-hop is an unstoppable cultural force and the most dominant genre on Apple Music,” said Ebro Darden, Apple Music’s global editorial head of Hip-Hop and R&B. “We wanted to make sure that we paid homage, paid respect, and that we did a great job capturing these stories. Our aim is to make sure that they’re archived for people to go back and listen to for years to come. The future of hip-hop is bright. Here’s to the next 50.”
Apple Music Radio offers an immersive journey through the genre’s evolution with “Hip-Hop DNA,” a captivating four-part, 20-episode narrative radio series. Hosted by Darden, this series weaves together the tapestry of hip-hop’s evolution, from its Origins across iconic regional scenes like the Bronx, Compton, Atlanta, the San Francisco Bay Area, Chicago, and beyond, to the MCs, Producers, and DJs who have left an indelible mark on its history.
As the global hip-hop community joins in commemorating this cultural milestone, Apple Music’s initiatives stand as a testament to the genre’s enduring impact, influence, and vibrant legacy.
In celebration of Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary, renowned audio software company Serato has released a captivating new episode of its podcast series, Serato Unscripted. This episode features a candid conversation with influential hip-hop producer, music executive, and DJ Clark Kent, shedding light on music’s profound impact and the evolution of DJs within the hip-hop culture.
Hosted by Serato’s own Matt Perry, Serato Unscripted is a platform for candid discussions about the transformative power of music. In this installment, Clark Kent delves into his journey as a pioneering figure in the hip-hop industry. He reflects on the trailblazing DJs and artists who have shaped his work, emphasizing DJs’ integral role in hip-hop’s dynamic landscape.
Clark Kent’s legacy in hip-hop is undeniable, having left an indelible mark on the careers of luminaries like Jay-Z, Kanye West, The Notorious B.I.G, and Lil’ Kim. The episode unveils the fascinating story behind the creation of Jay-Z’s iconic track “Brooklyn’s Finest,” which resulted from Kent’s innovative DJing skills and creative vision.
“Ohio Players ‘Ecstasy’ to me is the best record I’ve ever heard,” Clark Kent said. “It doesn’t have verses. It doesn’t have hooks. It doesn’t have bridges. It just has feeling. And every time I listen to it, it’s the same. It’s just like, God, listen to the feeling… I played it as the last record at every party. And you know, when you got your crew – [Jay-Z] and [Dame Dash], [Biggie Smalls] – every night they hear this song… it becomes the crew’s favorite record.”
Throughout the conversation, Clark Kent pays homage to the legendary DJs who were his early inspirations, including Larry Levan, Kool DJ Red Alert, and Grandmaster Flowers. Their influence helped shape his trajectory and contribute to the rich tapestry of hip-hop culture.
“I love [Kool DJ Red Alert] for being like, one of the only people who can challenge me in a club,” DJ Clark Kent said. “The only other guy I probably ever felt challenged in a club with is Louie Vega… Little Louie Vega is literally the house version of me in the club.”
De La Soul is thrilled to announce the release of the highly anticipated physical albums Art Official Intelligence: Mosaic Thump and AOI: Bionix, accompanied by additional exclusive merchandise available today on the band’s website.
The albums of the “Art Official Intelligence” or AOI series were landmark releases in De La Soul’s musical journey, garnering acclaim for their experimental compositions and thought-provoking lyrics. With the unveiling of the final two albums from this illustrious series, De La Soul once again proves why they remain one of the most influential and enduring forces in hip-hop.
Art Official Intelligence: Mosaic Thump, originally released on August 8, 2000, features an impressive lineup of guests, including Redman, Tash, J-Ro of Tha Liks, Xzibit, Busta Rhymes, Mike D and Ad Rock of the Beastie Boys, Busy Bee, Freddie Foxxx, and Chaka Khan. The album marked De La Soul’s triumphant return to the charts with hit singles “Oooh” and “All Good?”. “Oooh” received a nomination for a Source Award, as well as a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.
AOI: Bionix, De La Soul’s sixth full-length album, which was originally released on December 4, 2001, features a dynamic mix of collaborations, including “Baby Phat” with Yummy Bingham and Devin the Dude, and “Held Down” with Cee-Lo, where Posdnuos delves into introspective themes like fatherhood, religion, and fame. Notably, the album also includes “What We Do (For Love)” featuring Slick Rick, a humorous song about puberty and sexual discovery. The album’s songs are also interspersed with skits with Reverend Do Good that provide additional social commentary and act as intros and outros. Notably, the final Reverend Do Good skit features an intriguing reference to Ghost Weed, tying back to De La Soul’s previous album, Art Official Intelligence: Mosaic Thump. The song “Peer Pressure,” with a captivating intro and outro by J Dilla, celebrates the marijuana-themed track produced by the legendary artist.
De La Soul recently released the fan favorite “Buddy (Native Tongue Decision)” remix on all streaming platforms. Originally released as a 12” remix in 1989, was produced by Prince Paul and features A Tribe Called Quest, Queen Latifah, Monie Love, and Jungle Brothers to all streaming partners.
As the milestone anniversary of Hip Hop is celebrated this week, MLB teams with music legend Chuck D for special content and programming to celebrate the connection and impact of music, culture and baseball.
During Friday’s highly anticipated Hip Hop 50 Live at Yankee Stadium concert, the co-founder of pioneering musical group Public Enemy, will serve as MLB’s special correspondent, capturing the electric atmosphere in exclusive content for MLB’s platforms, including @MLB, @MLBLife social handles, MLB.com, MLB.TV and MLB Network.
Additionally, the acclaimed lyricist, producer and author will collaborate with MLB on content, music and stories throughout the 50th anniversary year. Programming includes MLB’s social, MLB Network and in-stadium videos focused on the relationship between baseball and Hip Hop culture, and how its evolved through the years.
“As a longtime baseball fanatic, I am beyond honored to be the first Hip Hop artist to work with Major League Baseball in this exciting new way – connecting sound and culture to the stories of the game,”said Chuck D. “Thank you to MLB for adding me to the lineup…and the pitch is on the way.”
MLB launches its yearlong partnership with Mass Appeal’s Hip Hop 50 this Friday, August 11 with Hip Hop 50 Live at Yankee Stadium. The star-studded event is the opening activation to commemorate Hip Hop’s 50th birthday where it all began, the Bronx. As part of the continued partnership, MLB and its Clubs will create content, merchandise and giveaways to amplify promotions that connect to Hip Hop under this impactful banner through the 2024 season.
In 2013, Public Enemy was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and in 2020, Public Enemy received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the GRAMMYs. In April 2023, Chuck D released his ode to the great American pastime with “We Wreck Stadiums,” a collection of songs that pays homage and salute to some baseball’s greats and the undeniable impact they’ve had on the game and the world. Most recently, he is developer and executive producer of “Fight the Power: How Hip-Hop Changed the World,” Chuck D curated a powerful collection of voices on the evolution of the musical genre and its historical significance. The four-episode series premiered in the US on PBS in 2023.
On this day 50 years ago (August 11, 1973), Kool Herc threw his legendary back-to-school basement party, which would go on to create the foundation for Hip-Hop music through the “breakbeat” DJ technique he used to keep the party rocking. Many aspiring emcees at the time paired ‘the break’ with the rhymes flowing through their minds, jumpstarting a sound and movement now considered the most popular genre in music; Hip Hop.
Many are familiar with the story of the 1520 Sedgewick Avenue Recreation Center and how Jamaican-born Herc attracted the youth from the community and other boroughs that had already made names for themselves in other aspects of the culture (B-Boying, Graffiti, and MCing). The climate in NYC has often been omitted from history, where the city was on the brink of bankruptcy while crime and “white flight” was at an all-time high. These were the circumstances in which the culture of Hip Hop was born and thrived throughout the city for about a decade before it became recognized by the mainstream.
Salute to the pioneers of the era, such as Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, Coke La Rock, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, The Funky Four Plus 1 More, The Magnificent Seven, and a host of others who were there at the foundation. Thank you for giving us what we can document now as Hip Hop history!
Prepare to embark on a captivating journey through the annals of Hip Hop history as A&E Network introduces its latest series, Hip Hop Treasures. Premiering on August 12 at 10 PM ET/PT, following Hip-Hop’s 50th birthday, this groundbreaking show takes you on a quest to uncover lost and iconic Hip Hop memorabilia, guided by none other than Ice T and LL COOL J.
Led by two legendary figures of the genre, alongside field collectors and museum curators, Hip Hop Treasures delves deep into the stories behind some of Hip Hop’s most illustrious artists and the cherished items that defined their legacy. Imagine seeing The Notorious B.I.G.’s iconic jersey from the “Juicy” video, Flavor Flav’s iconic clocks, DMX’s Aaliyah car, and more, all meticulously preserved and showcased in the birthplace of Hip Hop culture – The Bronx.
This exclusive partnership between A&E, Pulse Films, LL COOL J’s Rock The Bells, and The Universal Hip Hop Museum pays homage to these music legends by returning their artifacts to where it all began. “Hip Hop Treasures” offers a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the originators and artifacts that birthed the global phenomenon of Hip Hop.
With LL COOL J and Ice T at the helm, joined by field collectors Cipha Sounds and Yo-Yo, alongside Chief Museum Curator Paradise Gray and curator Pete Nice, elusive artifacts find their way back to The Universal Hip Hop Museum’s archive. The museum, set to become “The Official Record of Hip Hop,” is diligently assembling the world’s largest Hip Hop memorabilia collection, with its permanent home scheduled to open worldwide in 2024.
Throughout the series, you’ll be treated to poignant personal narratives from LL COOL J and Ice T themselves, along with unparalleled access to Hip Hop luminaries like DMC (Run DMC), CeeLo Green, Flavor Flav, Fat Joe, Treach (Naughty by Nature), Master P, Soulja Boy, and many more. Moreover, “Hip Hop Treasures” will honor the legacies of The Notorious B.I.G., DMX, Biz Markie and feature Coolio’s final on-camera appearance before his passing in 2022.
In conversation with The Source, Ice T discusses being a part of Hip-Hop Treasures, the growth in Hip-Hop, and why our memorabilia is one of the most rich entertainment components.
What initially drew you to be a part of this series, and why do you think it’s important to highlight the search for lost Hip-Hop memorabilia?
Well, I didn’t start off as a host. I started off just as one of the characters. We were donating stuff to the hip-hop museum, and we shot our episode, and the people from A&E said, Ice, you are so well-spoken. Would you like to come in and, you know, co-host this? So that’s how we got put on. It’s a good concept. It’s a great thing. Hip-Hop being 50 years old man, Hip-Hop has gray hair, and a lot of the stuff that we never thought would be valuable is valuable. It only takes 20 years for something to be an antique. So you go and meet these people like me, and you’re like, man, you got stuff from day one, and now there are collectors out there, and there are people that are really appreciating it. And that’s a great thing.
Can you share a particular moment or item that resonated with you personally during this filming?
No, I can’t say anything personally. Every time I see something, it’s dope. Like when Flavor Flavor tells the story about his clock, I’m like, I didn’t know that story. So a lot of times you see the item, but then the story that goes along with it is so dope. Everybody’s looking for the Holy Grail. On my end, my gold gun got lost in the mix of me and my ex breaking up. I don’t know where that is; she probably sold it. But it’s a lot of things. So it’s an amazing show, and just cool to kick in with people. We went and talked to Coolio, and we had no idea that that would be the last interview with Coolio. So, it’s a lot about getting Hip-Hop while it’s still alive.
You mention these artifacts and also contributing to the Universal Hip-Hop Museum. How does it feel for you to be almost like a scientist who gets to find, preserve, and celebrate these items for other people in the future?
It’s cool, man. When Rocky Bucano and the team started the Universal Hip-Hop Museum up in the Bronx, I donated a lot of stuff early in the game, but it’s just taken fire. I’m with Afrika Islam, and they do auctions at Sotheby’s, the most prestigious auction house, and that’s where I learned a lot of this stuff is extremely valuable. See, collectors are interesting. There are baseball cards that are worth millions of dollars. Now to somebody, that’s not valuable, but to a collector, that’s valuable. So there are people that really respect Hip-Hop to such a level. I heard Biggie’s Crown went for hundreds of thousands of dollars, you know? So it’s a very interesting thing, but it’s something that I don’t think, as a rapper, we ever felt that these things would have much value. You’re gonna be amazed at some of the stuff we got. They got stage props from Digital Underground that are two stories tall.
You mentioned Coolio, and throughout the series, we also have moments of tribute to Biggie, DMX, Biz Markie. People who are associated with the legend tag like yourself. How does that personally feel inside?
When people throw legend around, I always try to throw living in front of it, you know? I’ve lost so many people, man. The thing we do with Biz Markie’s wife is crazy, and I think all our legends would be proud to know that pieces of them are being immortalized on a TV show and museum. My thing was always, even dating back to my film Art of Rap, I wanted to make Hip-Hop respectable. I think this show will give people on the outside to understand where different parts of the culture came from. Culture is just a bunch of people who bring something to the table.
What do you want viewers to take away from this show, and what message do you send to those excited about the upcoming Hip-Hop museum?
It’s a place to go and see things you remember from your era. Take your kids and see where Hip-Hop was born. You have a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, some of my stuff is in the Smithsonian. When items are respected enough to be in museums, it gives credibility. Believe me, some people still don’t want to give Hip-Hop its credit even though it’s a multibillion-dollar industry. They want to aim at the negative stuff because it gets more views. But this is a totally positive show that will only show the best. One of my favorite shows right now is Tales From the Territories, highlighting wrestlers, it’s also on A&E, and they sit and talk about wrestling. What makes it dope is that you only see them in the ring, but you don’t hear from them. It’s not like sitting down and talking about beef; it’s about the actual work. So I think this will humanize Hip-Hop more to where children can look at their mothers and say, “Okay, Mom, I understand why you love Salt-N-Pepa so much.”
With Hip-Hop hitting it’s 50th year. What do you see in the game now and enjoy most?
I like the fact it’s still around and still called Hip-Hop. Hip-Hop has gone through many phases that I wasn’t fond of. I made it clear I wasn’t too fond of the ringtone phase where no one was rapping. As a person like me, a rapper, I like rap. I like bars. I really feel right now, we’re in an era where the rapper is about to return as freestyles are getting popular and the lyrics are starting to push forward. Any culture is going to go through phases, though. It can’t stay the same. It has to morph and go into different zones. So ultimately, I’m happy it’s still alive. I’m happy kids can learn from it. I’m happy Hip-Hop billionaires are showing you can take this anywhere. You look at JAY-Z, you look at 50 Cent, these guys started rapping, but there’s no limit to what they can do. Ice Cube has a basketball league. Do you see what I mean?
Every Aug. 9 in New York City is now known as Run-DMC Day. New York City Mayor Eric Adams issued a proclamation honoring the achievements and contributions of the historic Hip-hop group to the city, Hip-Hop, and entertainment culture.
According to Complex, the proclamation was handed to the legend during a special pop-up event hosted by Adidas Originals.
“Adidas Originals is intricately woven into the fabric of hip-hop culture,” Rupert Campbell, president of Adidas North America, said. “As a brand that embodies authentic creativity, we are so proud that we brought the Superstar to Run-DMC and they brought it to the world.”
One of Hip-Hop’s biggest stars of all time, LL Cool J, pulled up on Kevin Hart’s Gold Minds podcast to reflect on his career and the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop. During his conversation, LL reveals what drew him to music.
“I started writing rhymes at 11, 12 years old. I started writing my own rhymes. Why was I attracted to it? Because I had never heard young, black men sound powerful before. Every time I saw black men on TV, they were like being handcuffed and being put in a police car. Or it was a bad story. Or they were somebody that I couldn’t relate to that was way far away somewhere. But these guys were right there where I was from. And they were dreaming big… back then, it was a dream and that bragging and that macho stick your chest out pride was really about ‘I want to be somebody, I want to be heard, I don’t want to be invisible.’ To a certain extent, it was overcompensation for what wasn’t happening for us in the community… it made me feel like it was possible to make it. I was inspired. And that’s why I love it so much and why I still do it.”
