It was announced yesterday that Kendrick Lamar would be taking the stage for Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, but there are some fans and other celebrities who believe that there’s one star from NOLA that should’ve been the top pick for the NFL’s biggest gig of the year.
Even though K Dot took the stage for Super Bowl LVi alongside rap stars such as Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Eminem, Mary J. Blige and 50 Cent, many believe that Weezy should’ve been offered the headlining spot for the biggest sport event of the year.
Culture critic DJ Akademiks argued that Kendrick is without a doubt a great artist, but Super Bowl 61 is supposed to be in Lamar’s hometown and the NFL could’ve waited two years to put him on centerstage. Another New Orleans legend, Master P, saluted Kendrick as an artist, but also questioned who the Hot Boys superstar wasn’t chosen to perform in his hometown.
No one os saying that Kendrick doesn’t deserve to make it on the Suer Bow halftime stage, but many people on social media are echoing the same sentiments. There is still a possibility that Wayne might take the stage with Kendrick, being that they have “Mona Lisa” on “Tha Carter V” together, but it doesn’t seem satisfactory to Wayne fans or NOLA natives.
Do YOU think Wayne should perform at the Super Bowl instead of Kendrick?
Mariah Carey reveals she is back at work after the passing of both her mother, Patricia Carey, and sister, Alison Carey. The two died on the same day.
Speaking on Instagram, Carey said, “Back at work. It’s been a couple of rough weeks, but I appreciate everyone’s love and support so much and I can’t wait to see my fans in China & Brazil. Love you! .”
A couple of weeks back, Carey revealed the deaths. “My heart is broken that I’ve lost my mother this past weekend,” Carey said to PEOPLE. “Sadly, in a tragic turn of events, my sister lost her life on the same day.”
“I feel blessed that I was able to spend the last week with my mom before she passed. I appreciate everyone’s love and support and respect for my privacy during this impossible time.”
Details about the causes of death are not available.
On this date in 2000, M.O.P.’s Billy Danze and Fame joined forces with Terror Squad’s First Lady Remy Ma, The Conglomerate general Busta Rhymes nad crew member to polish off the remix of their classic stick-em-up hit “Ante Up” on the Loud/Relativity imprint.
Pulled from their fourth full length studio album entitled Warriorz, Billy and Fame recruited producer DR Period for the production as well as famed NYC DJ Funk Flex to give an energetic intro to the song. The infectious horns incite the track’s hype level, making it a club banger as well as a pep song for any situation where that “brooklyn” energy is demanded.
The video was shot by director extraordinaire Little X in Bed Stuy, Brooklyn and features several artists and Hip Hop personalities including Gang Starr, Lord Have Mercy, Easy Mo Bee, Ralph McDaniels, DJ Green Lantern, Buckshot of Black Moon, Steele of Smif-N-Wessun, Method Man, Afu-Ra, and Tony Touch.
Ante Up was also featured in several silver screen classics such as Brown Sugar, You Got Served and even made it on an episode of Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
Salute to Billy, Fame, Teflon, DR, Buss-A-Bus, Remy and everyone else who was a part of making this a piece of Hip Hop history!
Rich Homie Quan’s girlfriend, Amber Williams, is addressing the loss of her love.
“The pain is unbearable,” wrote Williams. “The love you all have shown is an overflow. I truly appreciate everyone who’s reached out. I’m traumatized from a moment that’ll forever be in my head.”
Hip-hop continues to reel from Rich Homie Quan’s sudden death. While attending the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players celebration, Offset delivered a message to RHQ’s family: “I wish you guys some type of prosperity, some type of overcoming of it.”
He added, “Shoutout to Rich Homie Quan, that’s a Day 1 artist that we all came up in the same lab, same kitchen, trying to make it happen. That’s a tragic thing in hip-hop. RIP to you and bless your family.”
From discussing NYFW to honoring Rich Homie Quan & more, here’s what @OffsetYRN told Billboard while at this year’s R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players celebration. pic.twitter.com/8PZGwRQcup
In a statement to TMZ, Rich Homie Quan’s family and representatives for the Fulton County morgue confirmed his death. In a statement, the family said they are “shattered and heartbroken by his sudden death.” A cause of deathw as not provided.
Boosie Badazz, Playboi Carti and Jacquees were among those first sharing the details and offering tributes online:
Rich Homie Quan, born Dequantes Devontay Lamar, is well-known among fans for his melodic trap flow and rose to fame for his catchy songs, including the number-one hits “Type of Way” and “Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh).” Rich Homie Quan was also a member of Rich Gang alongside Young Thug and Birdman, spawning the Rich Gang: Tha Tour Pt. 1.
In 2022, Rich Homie Quan announced a partnership with Venice Music, a cutting-edge music and technology firm created by Troy Carter and Suzy Ryoo. Under his new label Rich Homie Entertainment, which will be serviced by Venice Music, Rich Homie Quan was set to independently release music.
Hip-hop continues to reel from Rich Homie Quan’s sudden death. While attending the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players celebration, Offset delivered a message to RHQ’s family: “I wish you guys some type of prosperity, some type of overcoming of it.”
He added, “Shoutout to Rich Homie Quan, that’s a Day 1 artist that we all came up in the same lab, same kitchen, trying to make it happen. That’s a tragic thing in hip-hop. RIP to you and bless your family.”
From discussing NYFW to honoring Rich Homie Quan & more, here’s what @OffsetYRN told Billboard while at this year’s R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players celebration. pic.twitter.com/8PZGwRQcup
In a statement to TMZ, Rich Homie Quan’s family and representatives for the Fulton County morgue confirmed his death. In a statement, the family said they are “shattered and heartbroken by his sudden death.” A cause of deathw as not provided.
Boosie Badazz, Playboi Carti and Jacquees were among those first sharing the details and offering tributes online:
Rich Homie Quan, born Dequantes Devontay Lamar, is well-known among fans for his melodic trap flow and rose to fame for his catchy songs, including the number-one hits “Type of Way” and “Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh).” Rich Homie Quan was also a member of Rich Gang alongside Young Thug and Birdman, spawning the Rich Gang: Tha Tour Pt. 1.
In 2022, Rich Homie Quan announced a partnership with Venice Music, a cutting-edge music and technology firm created by Troy Carter and Suzy Ryoo. Under his new label Rich Homie Entertainment, which will be serviced by Venice Music, Rich Homie Quan was set to independently release music.
Last week, September 4, Peacock celebrated the premiere of limited series FIGHT NIGHT: THE MILLION DOLLAR HEIST at Jazz at Lincoln Center, followed by an exclusive after party in The Appel Room overlooking Columbus Circle and Central Park.
Coinciding with the eve of NY Fashion Week, the red carpet kicked off with a surprise fashion show in partnership with GQ. Drawing inspiration from the series, models showcased high-fashion 70s-inspired looks, blending retro styles with modern sophistication. Adding to the 70s flair, the red carpet featured a replica of Chicken Man’s (played by Kevin Hart) 1966 Cadillac Calais, custom-built by the renowned West Coast Customs.
Over 800 guests were ushered into the Rose Theater for a packed screening of the first two episodes, “Round One: The Ballad of Chicken Man” and “Round Two: Fight Night”. Following the screening, attendees enjoyed an exclusive after-party, emanating 70’s nightclub, complete beats from DJ Trauma, and a photo op with Roc Nation’s Lenny Santiago’s iconic gold couch.
Attendees included Executive Producer Will Packer; Executive Producer, Writer, Creator, and Showrunner Shaye Ogbonna; Executive Producer and Star Kevin Hart; and cast including Samuel L. Jackson, Taraji P. Henson, Don Cheadle and Terrence Howard, Chloe Bailey, Sinqua Walls, Dexter Darden, Lori Harvey and more.
Additional celebrity guests included writer and comedian Amber Ruffin, Love Island USA S6 winner Kordell Beckham, actress and comedian Ego Nwodim (Mr. Throwback, SNL), actor and comedian Adam Pally (Mr. Throwback), WWE Star “Sheamus” Stephen Farrelly, rapper and singer SAINt JHN, actress Lorraine Toussaint, rapper Busta Rhymes, Chicago Sky basketball star Kysre Gondrezick, Guerdy Abraira (The Real Housewives of Miami), Karen Huger (The Real Housewives of Potomac), Sunny Hostin (The View) and more.
Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has put his luxurious Holmby Hills mansion on the market, listing the expansive estate for a staggering $61.5 million. According to property records, Combs, 54, originally purchased the palatial property in Los Angeles’ exclusive billionaire’s row neighborhood in 2014 for $39 million.The nearly 20,000-square-foot residence, set on a sprawling 1.3-acre lot, offers an abundance of opulent amenities. Hidden behind private gates and surrounded by lush landscaping, the estate features mature trees, formal gardens, and a resort-style swimming pool complete with a waterfall and grotto. An outdoor covered loggia provides an ideal space for alfresco dining and entertaining.Inside, the traditional-style home boasts 10 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms. The gourmet kitchen is complemented by a wine cellar and a separate catering kitchen, perfect for hosting large gatherings. For movie enthusiasts, a state-of-the-art theater can accommodate up to 35 guests, offering a cinematic experience within the comfort of home.On the second floor, the primary suite stands out with dual bathrooms and expansive closets. A gallery hallway leads to additional guest rooms and family suites, ensuring ample space for visitors. The estate also includes a large, two-story guest house featuring a gym and a recording studio, catering to both fitness and creative pursuits.Despite the sale, sources close to Combs emphasize that the decision to part with the property is not related to any ongoing civil litigation or investigation. “Diddy established his primary residence in Miami years ago and always planned to sell his LA home once his daughters grew up and moved out,” a source told Fox News Digital. “He’s an empty nester and spends most of his time in Florida. It has nothing to do with any civil litigation or investigation.”
With its prime location and extensive list of amenities, Diddy’s Holmby Hills estate offers a rare opportunity for luxury living in one of Los Angeles’ most coveted neighborhoods. As the music icon transitions to a new chapter in his life, this listing marks the end of an era for his presence in LA.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die star Will Smith has officially took his name out the hat of the highly anticipated action-thriller “Sugar Bandits.” Now the production is without its headline star.
So what’s up with that? Well, according to Deadline Hollywood, Smith’s departure is attributed to “scheduling conflicts.” That’s interesting as most scheduling is lined up before stars commit to big tentpole projects but what do we know.
Still, it remains unclear which of his upcoming projects may have caused the alleged conflict. Smith has several projects in the pipeline, including the much-anticipated “I Am Legend 2”, where he is set to co-star with Michael B. Jordan.
Get this, Smith’s exit places the film’s future in a weird position, especially in terms of box office potential. Distributors had eagerly signed on to back the $80 million production at both Cannes and the European Film Market (EFM), largely because of Smith’s involvement as the lead.
What’s interesting is Smith will continue to be attached to the project as a producer through his production company Westbrook, but finding a replacement actor who can carry the same star power is now a real concern.
There are some big shoes to fill and the clock is ticking.
”Sugar Bandits” was scheduled to begin filming in the coming months. Despite the setback, the filmmakers are still eyeing a 2025 release date, but that will depend on how quickly a new lead can be secured.
What’s more, is the film is set to be directed by Stefano Sollima (“Sicario: Day of the Soldado”), and is based on Chuck Hogan’s novel “Devils in Exile”.
The story centers on a former special forces soldier who leads a team of vigilantes to take down Boston’s drug trade. Hogan is also attached as the film’s screenwriter.
Deadline wrote in their report that Smith’s departure “throws a major wrench into the film’s production schedule,” and without a new lead, the distributors who initially supported the project may reevaluate their commitment. It remains to be seen whether a new actor can step into the role and satisfy the high expectations that distributors and fans alike had for the film with Smith in the driver’s seat.
Chrisean Rock took to Instagram to share a heartwarming moment with her fans, celebrating the first birthday of her son, Chrisean Jesus Porter, just days after being released from jail. In an emotional video posted on her page, the reality star is seen holding her baby boy close, showering him with thousands of kisses as she expressed her gratitude for being able to share this special day with him.
In the video’s caption, Chrisean reflected on the blessing of being set free just in time to celebrate her son’s milestone. “To be with you Today set free a couple days from your birthday is a Blessing. Happy 1 years old September 3,” she wrote. Chrisean also included a heartfelt message quoting Psalm 127:3: “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.”
The reality star continued to share her thoughts on the significance of being present in her child’s life, despite the challenges she has faced. “In the journey of parenthood, moments and milestones hold special places in our hearts, yet it’s important to remember that your love and presence in your child’s life are what truly matter,” she wrote. Chrisean acknowledged that missing significant events like a first birthday can bring feelings of sadness or regret, but she emphasized that it also offers a chance to reflect on the love and care she provides every day.
Chrisean, who was recently released after spending three months in jail, shared how her experience has softened her heart and strengthened her faith. “Through this fall it soften my heart to truly find peace in the word of God n to really focus on the ordained plan of my life through Obedience Purity is key n this journey to go Glory to Glory @chriseanjesus,” she added. She also thanked her supporters for their prayers and encouragement during her time in custody.
In a follow-up Instagram Live session, Chrisean revealed that she is following God’s guidance and teased some exciting new projects that she has in the works, signaling a fresh start after her challenging ordeal.
Chrisean’s arrest took place on June 10 in California, where she was detained on an outstanding warrant. The 24-year-old was incarcerated at the Craig County Detention Center in Oklahoma, facing charges related to failure to have a tax stamp affixed on controlled dangerous substances (CDS) and possession of CDS with the intent to distribute. The charges stem from a February 2022 incident when Chrisean was found in possession of approximately one pound of cannabis during a traffic stop.
If convicted on both charges, Chrisean could face up to eight years in prison.
Meanwhile, Chrisean’s estranged boyfriend, Blueface, who is also the father of their son, is currently serving a four-year prison sentence for violating parole. The rapper, who has had his own share of legal troubles, is expected to be released by next spring.
Friday night saw Brooklyn’s Xanadu transformed into a hotspot for the future of hip-hop, as Billboard hosted its highly anticipated 2024 Hip-Hop LIVE concert. With a sold-out crowd in attendance, the event was a celebration of the next wave of talent that is rapidly climbing the industry’s charts and taking the world by storm.The evening featured a dynamic lineup of performances that showcased the best of what’s next in hip-hop. DJ Miss Milan kicked off the night, setting the tone for an energy-filled event. The spotlight then turned to the rising stars, including Texas sensation BigXthaPlug, Florida’s own Bossman Dlow, and the genre-blending headliner, Teezo Touchdown.
Hip-Hop LIVE Highlights:
BigXthaPlug: The Texas-born rapper, hailed as Amazon Music’s latest Breakthrough Artist, ignited the crowd with his opening performance. Fans chanted “The biggest, the largest!” as he took the stage, delivering a powerful set that included hits like “The Largest,” “Safehouse,” “Climate,” “Whip It,” “Levels,” and the Texas anthem “Texas,” a tribute to his roots.
Bossman Dlow: With the iconic Jaws theme song playing, Bossman Dlow hyped up the audience before diving into his viral track “Mr. Pot Scraper.” The rising Florida star kept the momentum going with performances of “Twerk Dat Ass (Twerk Song),” “Come Here,” “Piss Me Off,” “Talk My Shit,” and closed with “Finesse,” with the crowd echoing every word.
Teezo Touchdown: The headliner, known for his eclectic style, didn’t disappoint. Teezo Touchdown, dressed in a striking retro monochrome red outfit, captivated the audience as he took the stage with a microphone adorned with red roses. Reflecting on his recent “Rookie of the Year” award, which he received at Billboard’s R&B Hip-Hop Power Player Event the night before, Teezo remarked, “What a year it’s been…” He then delivered a high-energy set featuring his viral hits “Daylight,” “OK,” “You Thought,” “Impossible,” “Too Easy,” “MODERN JAM,” “Out of Respect,” and concluded the night with “Stranger,” leaving the crowd in awe.
Amazon Music’s Breakthrough Program: Championing New Talent
A major highlight of the night was Amazon Music’s dedication to nurturing emerging artists through its Breakthrough Program. BigXthaPlug’s standout performance was a testament to the program’s success, which provides artists with increased visibility, livestream performances, bespoke marketing activations, and more. By backing artists during the most crucial stages of their careers, Amazon Music’s Breakthrough Program is helping to shape the future of hip-hop.
Exclusive On-Site Experiences
Beyond the music, State Farm brought their Good Neighbor Marketplace to the event, featuring local, Black-owned small businesses and delivering exclusive experiences to fans on-site. Meanwhile, the event’s exclusive cognac sponsor, Rémy Martin, elevated the evening with signature cocktails made with 1738 Accord Royal, offering a curated bar experience that added a touch of luxury to the night.
The Hip-Hop LIVE concert followed Billboard’s annual R&B Hip-Hop Power Players Event, held on Thursday, September 5, at the Paradise Club at the Edition Hotel Times Square. The prestigious event gathered leaders from the R&B and hip-hop communities to celebrate the industry’s key power players, including Joey Bada$$ (Impact Award), Rachelle Jean-Louis (Executive of the Year), Teezo Touchdown (Rookie of the Year), Playboi Carti (R&B/Hip-Hop Artist of the Year), and Megan Thee Stallion (R&B/Hip-Hop Artist of the Year). The celebrations continue on Sunday, September 8, with Billboard’s R&B No. 1s Party, honoring the year’s biggest R&B chart-topping tracks.
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