Hip-hop sensation Ice Spice set the tone for New York City’s Fashion Week with an electrifying party at Harbor Nightclub. Organized by George Karavias’ Dream Hospitality Group, the event attracted a star-studded crowd, including rapper Cash Cobain, YG, and former NBA stars John Wall and Lance Stephenson.
The energy at the club reached new heights when Ice Spice climbed atop her VIP section and performed her hit track, “Think U The Shit (Fart).” The crowd went wild as DJ Nicky Rizz played her song “Deli” to hype up the atmosphere.
During Ice Spice’s performance, John Wall and Lance Stephenson were seen dancing and vibing, adding to the night’s excitement. The event marked a high-energy kickoff to Fashion Week, with Ice Spice proving again that she knows how to turn up and keep the crowd engaged.
Funkmaster Flex is facing an FCC complaint. Stands With Survivors, an advocacy group, filed a complaint against comments made by Funkmaster Flex during a recent show featuring Afrika Bambaataa. The Hip-Hop pioneer, who has largely stayed out of the public eye since being accused of child molestation by former Zulu Nation members Roland Savage and Hassan Campbell in 2016, made a rare appearance on Flex’s show on August 17th.
Bambaataa, also known as Lance Taylor, performed a DJ set on the show. According to Hip-Hop Wired, Flex later referenced Savage’s alleged recanting of his allegations against Bambaataa, stating: “It seems there’s a discrepancy that has been cleared up with Afrika Bambaataa and the young man Bee Stinger. It seems that the pedophile word that was being used, Bee Stinger is now saying that Afrika Bambaataa is not a pedophile.”
Flex added, “I don’t care whether or not Afrika Bambaataa prefers men or women or both. Yes, we do care if the word pedophile is used but obviously, according to AllHipHop that spoke to Bee Stinger, he’s saying that’s not the case.”
Ronald “Bee-Stinger” Savage walked back accusations against Afrika Bambaataa, who he accused of sexual abuse when he was 15 years old.
AllHipHop notes the two were pictured together at an event for the Zulu Nation, which Savage provided context to the moment. “Never underestimate the power of God when he intervenes in an affair he sets everything straight,” Savage said.
Savage stated Bambaataa sexually abused him when he was a teen. The 2016 statement was part of a series of bombshell statements against Bambaataa. Speaking with Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmurk, Savage stated he doesn’t see the legend as a pedophile.
“Bambaataa is not a pedophile and, in my eyes, he was doing something that was consensual with someone that he thought was of age,” he said. “I wish, back in 2016, I remembered about the fake ID. I wasn’t thinking about that I had forgot about that I was in deep depression and still dealing with the trauma as an adult. I want to apologize for the little kid that didn’t know anybody and just wanted to be down with this thing called Hip-Hop so I pretended to be older.
“This is something that took place 35 to over 40 years ago. This man has never been convicted of anything. Let it go. I needed to set the record straight [and get] my closure.”
You can hear the full interview below and read more here.
Last year, Afrika Bambaataa and his role as the co-founder of the Universal Hip Hop Museum sparked some controversy, with an advocacy group demanding the defunding of the recently built museum because of the Hip Hop pioneer’s sexual abuse allegations.
This week, a group called Hip Hop Stands With Survivors released a letter calling NYC Mayor Eric Adams to halt all taxpayer funding funneled into the UHHM and fire the organization’s Executive Director, Rocky Bucano. The letter also calls for all companies, such as Microsoft, to end their financial relationship with the UHHM.
The letter says, “We expect his resignation or for the board to vote him out of the museum’s leadership and for the museum to sever all ties with Bucano, Bambaataa, and the Zulu Nation.”
In 2019, the State of New York donated a $3.5million grant to the museum. It’s scheduled to open sometime in 2023 or 2024 to celebrate Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary.
The protest has been taken to the streets, with an immediate response coming from Mayor Adams.
“The Universal Hip Hop Museum assured the administration that they cut ties with the Universal Zulu Nation and that Afrika Bambaataa has not had a role at the Universal Hip Hop Museum since 2016,” Adams said in a statement.
Executive Director Bucano also released a statement, denying that Bambaataa was ever a board member of the museum and that he was never a member of the Zulu Nation.
His statement says, “The Universal Hip Hop Museum and Mr. Bucano condemn all acts of acts of violence and abuse. I would like to make it clear that Afrika Bambaataa has not had a role at the Universal Hip Hop Museum since 2016. I and the Universal Hip Hop Museum are not party to any activities affiliated with the Universal Zulu Nation I affirm that the Universal Hip Hop Museum is committed to its mission to empower, educate, and uplift communities.” It goes on saying, “While it is true that Afrika Bambaataa was a founding member of the museum, he was removed from any involvement with the museum as soon as the allegations surfaced. He has never been a board member, advisory board member or volunteer. I have never been a member of the Universal Zulu Nation nor am I an agent of the organization or Afrika Bambaataa. The assertion that UHHM is a financial front for the Universal Zulu Nation, Afrika Bambaataa, or other Universal Zulu Nation members, is irresponsible, false, and misdirected.”
Bambaataa was hit with several sexual abuse allegations going back to the 1970s but has maintained his innocence.
His attorney, Vivian K. Tozaki, issued a statement in 2016 saying, “Recently, defamatory statements were published seeking to harm my client’s reputation so as to lower him in the estimation of the community while deterring others from associating or dealing with him. The statements show a reckless disregard for the truth, were published with knowledge of their falsity, and are being made by a lesser-known person seeking publicity. Valuable cultural resources, such as Afrika Bambaataa’s good name and time, should never be used to assist a mediocre person’s asinine quest for social media popularity and superficial gain.”
ICYMI, Apple’s “It’s Glowtime” event included a behind-the-scenes look at theupcoming music video for The Weeknd’s latest single, “Dancing in the Flames,”shot entirely on the just announced iPhone 16 Pro. The music video, from director Anton Tammi and director of photography Erik Henrikkson, will premiere on Friday, September 13.
The all-new iPhone 16 Pro, the most advanced iPhone ever, features a larger display and the thinnest borders ever on any Apple product. The pro camera system brings all new creative features including the ability to record in 4K 120fps in Dolby Vision for smooth slo-motion video capture — on perfect display in the forthcoming music video for “Dancing in the Flames.” Four new studio-quality mics preserve true-to-life recorded sounds, Audio Mix uses machine learning to identify and separate background elements from speech, giving users three voice options: In-Frame Mix, Studio Mix, and Cinematic Mix, and so much more. iPhone 16 Pro also features the powerful A18 Pro chip, a huge leap in battery life, and comes in four stunning titanium finishes: black titanium, white titanium, natural titanium, and desert titanium.
Last week, The Weeknd revealed the title of his forthcoming album, “Hurry Up Tomorrow,” which marks the culmination of his acclaimed trilogy. Following “Dawn FM” and “After Hours,” this album is set to elevate his artistic narrative, encapsulating existential and self-referential themes that have captured the imagination of fans. The anticipation surrounding this final chapter is palpable, as it promises to be a powerful testament to The Weeknd’s evolution as an artist.
Launching September 12th (under embargo), BARCODE, a leader in performance hydration, is thrilled to announce their new limited-edition flavor, BLUEKISS, in collaboration with the Grammy-nominated rapper.
This exclusive release is the perfect union of flavor meets function, combining the refreshing and nostalgic flavors of blue raspberry, blackberry, and blueberry creating a beverage that not only fuels your body but also takes you on a flavorful trip down memory lane.
The release of BLUEKISS is celebrated by a series of immersive events, including the “Beat the Heat” Ice Installation at key locations in New York City. These installations feature ice sculptures encasing the BARCODE BLUEKISS bottles slowly melting offering passersby the chance to try. In addition, fans have had the opportunity to sample BLUEKISS at select Jadakiss concerts, providing concertgoers a firsthand experience of this unique drink.
Retailing for $28.99 per pack, BARCODE is available to shop online and in select retailers including Erewhon, Wegmans, Amazon, ShopRite, HEB, Central Market, and more.
Today, from the late, legendary Juice WRLD comes The Pre-Party, a two-pack of highly anticipated songs fans have been trading notes about for years. The surprise set pairs luxe emo-rap cut “World Tour (Aquafina)” with “Lightyears” featuring Young Thug, which has a slight country sway to it. Listen HERE via Grade A and Interscope Records. The 9AM global timing of the 9.9 release is significant to Juice WRLD and his fandom as a cherished number (999) that symbolizes the concept of flipping a bad situation into a positive one.
Juice previewed “World Tour (Aquafina)” on Instagram Live back in 2018, leaving listeners wondering if they’d ever hear the official release. Now, they can listen closely as the Chicago star inhales at the top of the track, then swan-dives through DJ Relentt’s jewel-tone synths into a blissed-out fever dream that rolls drugs, sex, and threats into a technicolor blur: “I can’t feel my tongue, shorty, I’m off the moll’, yeah / I still see the snakes, n****, run inside, yeah.”
“Lightyears” takes a different tack, mixing downcast guitar with booming bass while the two rap visionaries paint a modern picture of class and excess. “Taking trips off the Percs, I be sky high / In the sky sippin’ on red lean like it’s red wine,”Juice coos, while Young Thug flexes, “Ride big Bentleys everywhere that I go / Keep the Lamborghini parked at the bank though.” The beat comes courtesy of longtime Juice friend and collaborator Nick Mira.
The latter song has also been the subject of much speculation. Before Juice’s passing, Thug confirmed the two had more songs in the works, and their chemistry has been affirmed time and again, from Future’s “Red Bentley” (2018), to Juice’s “On God” (2019), to their collab track “Bad Boy” (2021), on through Thug’s “Money” featuring Nicki Minaj (2023) – to name a few. Mira’s involvement with “Lightyears” upped the anticipation — he’s had multiple songs on every Juice album to date, including Top 10 hits “Lucid Dreams,” “Bandit,” and “Smile.”
Global fashion and lifestyle online retailer SHEIN has announced its second collaboration with The Smiley® Company, unveiling the vibrant SHEIN X SmileyWorld collection. This exciting partnership brings together SmileyWorld’s iconic smiley face with SHEIN’s trend-driven designs, resulting in a range of stylish and affordable unisex accessories that are sure to add a cheerful touch to any wardrobe or home.
The collection features an array of items designed to infuse everyday fashion with SmileyWorld’s signature positivity and joy. From bold bags and stylish phone cases to cozy socks and eye-catching bedding, each piece is thoughtfully crafted to brighten up your day. With prices ranging from $10 to $35, the collection ensures that spreading happiness doesn’t have to break the bank.
SmileyWorld, a brand that has been synonymous with spreading happiness since 1971, perfectly complements SHEIN’s ethos of making fashion accessible and fun. This collaboration is a celebration of SmileyWorld’s upbeat and optimistic spirit, blending it seamlessly with SHEIN’s forward-thinking approach to fashion.
“We’re thrilled to partner with SHEIN once again,” said Janet Wilson, Chief Product Officer – Lifestyle Consumer Products at SmileyWorld. “Our collaboration with SHEIN aligns perfectly with our mission to spread happiness and positivity through fashion. We’re excited to see how this collection will bring smiles to people’s faces and add a burst of joy to their everyday lives through our signature designs.”
The SHEIN X SmileyWorld collection is now available exclusively on SHEIN’s website and app, offering fashion lovers the perfect opportunity to add a touch of joy to their lives. Whether you’re looking to elevate your style with a playful accessory or bring some positivity into your home, this collection has something for everyone.
Kendrick Lamar’s selection as the Super Bowl halftime performer has rubbed members of the Hip-Hop community the wrong way. Many believe it should have been Lil Wayne, including Wayne’s engineer, Marasciullo.
“Confused. Disappointed. Angry. But most of all, inspired,” Marasciullo wrote. “Will never again be in a position or have the in a position where we are at the mercy of someone else’s decision. We will make the decisions.”
Kendrick Lamar will take center stage at the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show at The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on February 9, 2025. Roc Nation, Apple Music, and the NFL made the announcement today, sparking excitement for the globally anticipated performance.
Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter, founder of Roc Nation, praised Lamar’s influence: “Kendrick Lamar is truly a once-in-a-generation artist and performer. His deep love for hip-hop and culture informs his artistic vision… His impact will be felt for years to come.”
Seth Dudowsky, Head of Music at the NFL, echoed this sentiment, saying, “Few artists have impacted music and culture as profoundly as Kendrick Lamar… Kendrick has proven his unique ability to craft moments that resonate, redefine, and ultimately shake the very foundation of hip-hop.”
Apple Music’s Oliver Schusser emphasized the excitement: “Apple is thrilled to bring this show, starring the absolutely incomparable Kendrick Lamar, to fans worldwide with Apple Music’s industry-leading Spatial Audio quality.”
Lamar, a Grammy and Emmy-winning artist and co-founder of pgLang, continues to redefine hip-hop, earning accolades like a Pulitzer Prize for his 2017 album DAMN. and his chart-topping collaborations earlier this year.
PgLang will creatively direct Lamar’s Super Bowl performance, which will be produced by DPS. Roc Nation’s Jesse Collins will serve as executive producer, and Hamish Hamilton will serve as director.
Apple Music’s ongoing partnership with the NFL and Roc Nation has already produced record-breaking halftime shows. With Kendrick Lamar at the helm, this year’s performance is set to be another groundbreaking moment in Super Bowl history.
Kendrick Lamar will take center stage at the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show at The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on February 9, 2025. Roc Nation, Apple Music, and the NFL made the announcement today, sparking excitement for the globally anticipated performance.
Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter, founder of Roc Nation, praised Lamar’s influence: “Kendrick Lamar is truly a once-in-a-generation artist and performer. His deep love for hip-hop and culture informs his artistic vision… His impact will be felt for years to come.”
Seth Dudowsky, Head of Music at the NFL, echoed this sentiment, saying, “Few artists have impacted music and culture as profoundly as Kendrick Lamar… Kendrick has proven his unique ability to craft moments that resonate, redefine, and ultimately shake the very foundation of hip-hop.”
Apple Music’s Oliver Schusser emphasized the excitement: “Apple is thrilled to bring this show, starring the absolutely incomparable Kendrick Lamar, to fans worldwide with Apple Music’s industry-leading Spatial Audio quality.”
Lamar, a Grammy and Emmy-winning artist and co-founder of pgLang, continues to redefine hip-hop, earning accolades like a Pulitzer Prize for his 2017 album DAMN. and his chart-topping collaborations earlier this year.
Lamar’s Super Bowl performance will be creatively directed by pgLang and produced by DPS, with Roc Nation’s Jesse Collins as executive producer and Hamish Hamilton as director.
Apple Music’s ongoing partnership with the NFL and Roc Nation has already produced record-breaking halftime shows, and with Kendrick Lamar at the helm, this year’s performance is set to be another groundbreaking moment in Super Bowl history.
PleasrDAO, the crypto group that owns the sole physical copy of the Wu-Tang Clan’s one-of-a-kind album Once Upon a Time in Shaolin, is locked in a legal battle with former pharmaceutical executive Martin Shkreli over his alleged retention of unauthorized copies of the album. The group has accused Shkreli of failing to fully comply with a court order to surrender all existing copies of the album and is now asking a federal judge to enforce a more thorough search of his possessions.
In a letter submitted to a New York federal court on September 6, PleasrDAO expressed doubts about Shkreli’s claims that he has handed over all duplicates of the album. The group pointed to Shkreli’s public boasts about distributing copies to others, raising concerns that he may still possess additional copies that could diminish the value of their $4.75 million purchase.
Shkreli, who acquired the album in 2015 before it was seized by the U.S. government following his conviction for securities fraud, submitted a sworn declaration on August 26 stating that he had found 15 files containing copies of the album on his Microsoft OneDrive. He asserted that he had searched all his “devices, electronic accounts, and other personal effects” in compliance with the court order.
However, PleasrDAO remains skeptical. In their court filing, the group argued that Shkreli’s search may have been incomplete, particularly since he acknowledged the existence of “storage facilities” where his personal effects were kept during his imprisonment. The group claimed that Shkreli provided no clear explanation for why these facilities had not been fully searched, leaving open the possibility that additional copies of the album are hidden away.
The group’s skepticism is fueled by Shkreli’s own statements. PleasrDAO referenced a public remark allegedly made by Shkreli in which he claimed, “Dude, you know I burned the album and sent it to like, 50 different chicks, right?” This statement, if true, contradicts Shkreli’s sworn declaration and supports PleasrDAO’s concerns that more copies may exist.
The controversy stems from PleasrDAO’s 2021 purchase of the album from the U.S. Justice Department, which had seized it from Shkreli as part of his forfeited assets. The DAO bought the album with the understanding that it was the only existing copy, and they are now selling partial ownership of the record through non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
In June, PleasrDAO sued Shkreli, accusing him of retaining copies of the album in violation of their agreement. The group is seeking a court order to permanently seize any remaining copies in Shkreli’s possession and to prevent him from financially exploiting the album.
Shkreli, for his part, has argued that any copies he made were created under the terms of his original purchase agreement and are not subject to forfeiture. He maintains that he still has the right to use those copies, setting the stage for a potentially protracted legal dispute over the fate of the elusive Wu-Tang Clan album.
Last week, the Hip Hop world was shaken after the death of ATL rap mainstay Rich Homie Quan was confirmed, with him passing away in his sleep in his Atlanta home. Now, the “Flex” rapper’s dad has went public to state that his son had at least 2000 unreleased songs and was working on a 25-track album when he died.
Corey Lamar, Quan’s father, sat down for an interview with AintYouMalcom and revealed that his son was working on videos with 2 Chainz and Plies to compliment the album he was preparing that boated several big name collabos. “He has a catalog… He has a ton of music that the fans deserve to hear,” his father added.
Lamar took to IG last week to express the pain of losing his son. “Lord please please please help me to understand this. To lose my son… my 1st born, my best friend. Lord let this be a dream…. Yall pray for me and my family. I feel like I’m crushed into a million pieces.”
The cause of Quan’s death has yet to be confirmed.
At the time of writing, it remains unclear whether or not there are any plans to release the project or any of the other music Quan had in the stash.
in a position where we are at the mercy of someone else’s decision. We will make the decisions.”
