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Today in Hip-Hop History: Ludacris Dropped His Sophomore Album ‘Word Of Mouf’ 23 Years Ago

November 27, 2024 by newhiphopnews

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On this day in 2001, Ludacris released his second full-length album, Word of Mouf. This LP was ridiculously successful, debuting at #3 on the Billboard 200 chart and selling 281,000 copies in the first week. It also received critical acclaim, being nominated for a Grammy for Best Hip Hop album (he lost to The Eminem Show). The album today is Ludacris’ top-selling album and is certified triple platinum-selling 3,674,000 copies in the United States.

His debut album, Back for the First Time, peaked at #4 on the Billboard 200 and served as a launching pad for the new sound that was refined on his Word of Mouth album. Containing hits like “Roll Out”, “Area Codes”, and “Move B****”, it is easy to see why Word Of Mouf got the attention it did. The production on this project, coming from the likes of Swizz Beatz, Timbaland, and Jazzy Pha helped to set the tone of the early 2000s rap music.

Word Of Mouf as a whole embodied a lot of what southern rap was in the 2000s. There were club hits like “Move B****”, that could appropriately get any function jumping and there were introspective, soulful story-rich tracks such as “Growing Pains”. The spectrum of styles that this album provided suited a plethora of listeners. After this project, Ludacris finally reached a #1 album with Chicken and Beer and continued to grow into a household name in Hip Hop. Even today, Ludacris is a highly respected figure in rap and can still be heard every now and again on someone’s radio single as a strong feature. Take some time today to reminisce and listen to this project that helped shape a legend.

The post Today in Hip-Hop History: Ludacris Dropped His Sophomore Album ‘Word Of Mouf’ 23 Years Ago appeared first on The Source Magazine.

Walmart Scales Back DEI Initiatives Amid Conservative Pressure

November 26, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Walmart, the nation’s largest private employer, has announced significant adjustments to its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, drawing attention amid criticism from conservative activists.

The retail giant revealed it will not renew its racial equity center, an initiative launched in response to the 2020 murder of George Floyd, and will no longer participate in the Human Rights Campaign’s annual LGBTQ+ benchmark index.

Conservative commentator Robby Starbuck claimed he had discussions with Walmart executives after informing the company of a forthcoming report on “wokeness” within its policies. Starbuck said the retailer responded positively, making commitments to modify several practices.

“Removing wokeness from Walmart has both downstream effects on suppliers and sets the tone for corporate America,” Starbuck told the media. “Changing the operating policies of a company nearing $1 trillion in value is a monumental achievement.”

As part of the changes, Walmart agreed to monitor third-party marketplace items for “inappropriate sexual and/or transgender products marketed to children,” review its Pride-related funding, and discontinue the use of the term “Latinx” in official communications, according to Starbuck.

However, Walmart emphasized that many of these changes had been planned for years and were not solely influenced by recent conversations. For instance, the company noted it had already begun shifting its terminology from DEI to “belonging” and restructured its supplier diversity program.

In a statement, Walmart affirmed its commitment to fostering inclusivity. “We’ve been on a journey and know we aren’t perfect, but every decision comes from a place of wanting to foster a sense of belonging, to open doors to opportunities for all our associates, customers, and suppliers, and to be a Walmart for everyone,” the company said.

The retailer’s actions come amid growing scrutiny of corporate DEI initiatives, reflecting a broader cultural and political debate about the role of business in social justice.

The post Walmart Scales Back DEI Initiatives Amid Conservative Pressure appeared first on The Source Magazine.

Peter Rosenberg Explores Beyoncé’s Grammy Legacy And The Making of ‘Cowboy Carter’ On New “This Ain’t Texas” Podcast

November 26, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Since Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album garnered 11 Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year and Country Album of the Year, Peter Rosenberg is launching a podcast series exploring the significance of Cowboy Carter with “This Ain’t Texas.”

Check out the trailer and first episode HERE

In the trailer, Rosenberg cited Beyoncé as the most important artist of her generation. He also cited Cowboy Carter as “a genre-defining, captivating, and, to some, polarizing masterpiece.” “This Ain’t Texas” will have Rosenberg discuss with producers from the album and music critics about the album’s making, Beyonce’s long history with the Grammys, and the controversies surrounding the album.

“I am so excited about this. It is just going to run from the end of November until the first week of February. I am calling it a “pop-up” podcast. I decided to make time for this because I think Beyoncé’s career arc and this specific Cowboy Carter album are worth exploring in depth — particularly because I believe she has, hands down, the album of the year. So, I am going to talk to writers, critics, musicians, producers, and Beyoncé collaborators about her career and why this album should be the first to get her album of the year,” said Rosenberg

The post Peter Rosenberg Explores Beyoncé’s Grammy Legacy And The Making of ‘Cowboy Carter’ On New “This Ain’t Texas” Podcast appeared first on .

Today in Hip-Hop History: No Limit’s Soulja Slim Shot and Killed 21 Years Ago

November 26, 2024 by newhiphopnews

On this day in 2003, James Tapp Jr., who is better known to the Hip Hop community as Soulja Slim, was shot and killed in front of his mother’s residence the night before Thanksgiving in his hometown of New Orleans. He was 26 years old.

Slim’s killer, the 22-year-old Gerelle Smith, was arrested on New Year’s Eve for the shooting but was released after no witnesses would come forward, even though the murder weapon was found in Smith’s possession. In August 2011, Smith was also shot and killed.

The New Orleans District Attorney’s office still has Slim’s murder listed as a cold case.

Soulja Slim is best known for his Juvenile assisted “Slow Motion”, which was the premiere track that featured both of New Orleans’ Hip-Hop first families; No Limit Records and Cash Money Records.

Salute to Slim (RIP) and the city of New Orleans for giving the world a chance to hear the voice of one of its kings.

The post Today in Hip-Hop History: No Limit’s Soulja Slim Shot and Killed 21 Years Ago appeared first on .

Stevie J Speaks on Watching Diddy’s Assault of Cassie: ‘It Really Threw Me For a Loop’

November 26, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Stevie J is revealing his reaction to the video of Diddy beating Cassie in a hotel hallway. Appearing on The Downfall of Diddy docuseries by TMZ, Stevie J says, “It really threw me for a loop.”

“After I saw the video, I went and saw him in Miami and we had a conversation. And I let him know how affected I was by that. I didn’t know he had that in him to do that,” Stevie said. “I just know that he was in a dark place in his life, as he described to me. He was just doing a lot of drugs and it was just dark for him.”

Stevie J claims Diddy was on a lot of drugs around the time he assaulted Cassie.

“He was doing a lot of drugs and it was dark for him.”pic.twitter.com/NLJJr2XfQp

— XXL Magazine (@XXL) November 15, 2024

In March, Stevie J stood by Diddy as he was being investigated for sex trafficking. Hitting social media, Stevie dropped a video, captioned: “No weapon formed against us shall prosper.” In the video, Stevie J nods his head to a gospel beat.

Stevie J reacts to Diddy’s homes being raided by praying for Diddy and his kids, Justin Combs and Christian Combs. pic.twitter.com/tJf6NbEELr

— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) March 26, 2024

In a recent Diddy lawsuit, Stevie J was mentioned. The former Love and Hip-Hop star was allegedly in a sex tape with a white man.

After the images of said sex tape leaked to the Internet, an adult star, D’Angelo “Knockout” Marquis, hit X, formerly Twitter, to say he was the one in the video. “That’s me smh,” he wrote.

In a separate tweet, Knockout wrote: “They will not bring him down off my name try again.”

Mr Jones provided screen grabs in his lawsuit of what he says is Stevie J allegedly penetrating a Caucasian male https://t.co/gGR0h0eBtT pic.twitter.com/zKUE1YNl9i

— Glock Topickz (@Glock_Topickz) February 27, 2024

I know and they will not bring him down off my name try again https://t.co/osFfG5pT2e

— KNOCKOUT (@knockoutd33) February 27, 2024

You can read more about the lawsuit here.

The post Stevie J Speaks on Watching Diddy’s Assault of Cassie: ‘It Really Threw Me For a Loop’ appeared first on .

Sexxy Red Ties Drake With The Most #1 Singles On US Apple Music In One Year

November 25, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Sexyy Red continues her meteoric rise in the music world, achieving an impressive milestone by tying with rap superstar Drake for two No. 1 singles on Apple Music. The St. Louis native is proving her dominance in the rap game, with her infectious hits capturing widespread attention and acclaim.

Her recent success places her among elite company, as Drake, a certified chart-topper, has consistently dominated streaming platforms throughout his career. For Sexyy Red, this achievement signals her transition from rising star to a mainstay in contemporary hip-hop.

The singles that secured this feat for Sexyy Red are “SkeeYee” and her feature on “Rich Baby Daddy” with Drake and SZA. Both tracks have not only showcased her unique flow and charisma but also demonstrated her ability to stand out alongside heavyweight collaborators. Her contributions to “Rich Baby Daddy” earned particular praise for their high-energy delivery, further cementing her reputation as a versatile artist.

The rapper’s vibrant personality and unapologetic style have resonated with fans, catapulting her singles to the top of the charts. Her authenticity and ability to craft catchy, club-ready tracks have made her a standout voice in the industry.

This feat adds to a breakout year for Sexyy Red, who has seen her music and persona embraced by fans and collaborators alike. Tying with an artist of Drake’s caliber is a testament to her talent and the power of her growing fanbase.

With momentum on her side and her star power rapidly increasing, Sexyy Red shows no signs of slowing down. Fans and critics alike eagerly await what the rapper will deliver next as she continues to solidify her position as one of the hottest names in music today.

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Lil Durk Faces Backlash Over Pricey “Free Durk” Merchandise Amid Murder-for-Hire Charges

November 25, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Rapper Lil Durk charged with murder for hire 10 25 2024 06 25 AM

Lil Durk is under fire for the high prices of his “Free Durk” merchandise as he remains jailed on murder-for-hire charges. His team recently launched a collection of apparel, including T-shirts and hoodies, to show support for the rapper, who is being held without bail.

The clothing line features the slogan “Free Durk,” with T-shirts priced at $45 and hoodies retailing for $95. Fans were quick to criticize the pricing, accusing Durk’s team of exploiting supporters during his legal troubles.

One frustrated fan commented, “$95 for a made-in-China hoodie is crazy work.” Another quipped, “They should add an extra 10 years for these damn prices.” A harsher critique came from someone who remarked, “Nobody wants that. Keep him locked up.”

Lil Durk is currently detained in Los Angeles after pleading not guilty to murder-for-hire charges. While a bond hearing is scheduled for December 12, prosecutors strongly oppose his release, citing claims that the rapper attempted to flee the country before his arrest.

The charges against Durk initially included conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, stemming from an alleged plot that resulted in the death of Quando Rondo’s cousin. However, a superseding indictment filed on November 7 brought additional charges. These include the use of interstate facilities to commit murder-for-hire resulting in death and using, carrying, and discharging firearms, including a machine gun, in furtherance of a violent crime.

As Durk’s legal battle intensifies, the controversy over his merchandise adds another layer of scrutiny to the embattled rapper’s situation.

The post Lil Durk Faces Backlash Over Pricey “Free Durk” Merchandise Amid Murder-for-Hire Charges appeared first on .

Diddy’s Bond Hearing Raises Safety Concerns for Alleged Victims Amid Death Threats

November 25, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Sean “Diddy” Combs is set to appear before Judge Arun Subramanian on Monday (November 25) to determine whether he will be released on bond. While the potential release of the music mogul looms, his alleged victims are expressing growing fears for their safety.

According to NewsNation’s Banfield, Ariel Mitchell, an attorney representing multiple accusers, revealed that her clients have been receiving death threats. Among those targeted is Courtney Burgess, a grand jury witness who has publicly claimed to own the copyright to the alleged memoir of the late Kim Porter.

Victims Fear Obstruction of Justice

Mitchell shared that her clients, who are part of the ongoing legal proceedings against Diddy, are apprehensive about the implications of his potential release. “All of them are very apprehensive about their safety if he were to be granted bond,” she stated. “I am confident in the court. I am sure that the court will remain with their previous decision of no bond.”

The attorney explained that while the threats her clients have received are from unidentified sources, the timing has raised concerns about the possibility of Diddy’s influence. “There have been threats from people on the internet, but not, at least, what we don’t know from Diddy to be directly,” she clarified.

Mitchell: “I’m Not Scared”

Mitchell, who claims to have been vocal about Diddy’s alleged misconduct since 2021, admitted that she, too, has faced intimidation. Despite this, she maintained a firm stance. “I keep two straps on me,” she declared. “And I have God protecting me. I’m not scared. As long as he’s behind bars.”

While expressing relief that the judge has indicated Diddy would not be allowed to return to Miami if released, Mitchell acknowledged that his release could require heightened security measures. “If he were to come back to Miami, I probably would be a little nervous and probably beef up security,” she admitted. “I’m pretty good with my Smith and Wesson.”

Prosecutors Push to Deny Bond

Prosecutors have raised concerns that Diddy could obstruct justice if granted bond, citing his potential to influence witnesses or intimidate accusers. These arguments, coupled with the alleged threats against his accusers, will likely weigh heavily on the court’s decision.

What’s Next?

As Monday’s hearing approaches, all eyes will be on Judge Subramanian’s ruling. The decision could have far-reaching implications for the ongoing legal battle surrounding Diddy, his alleged victims, and the broader conversation about justice and safety in high-profile cases.

This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.

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Kim Porter’s Sons Take Legal Action to Stop Alleged Tell-All Book

November 25, 2024 by newhiphopnews

A brewing legal battle has erupted between the sons of the late Kim Porter—Quincy Brown and Christian Combs—and Courtney Burgess, the man attempting to sell what he claims is a tell-all book based on Kim’s personal diary. Last week, the brothers sent Burgess a cease-and-desist notice, demanding he halt the sale of the alleged Kim Porter Diary. However, Burgess has fired back, refusing to comply and escalating tensions with sharp remarks about Kim’s legacy.

Courtney Burgess Responds to the Cease-and-Desist

In a statement obtained by TMZ, Burgess and his attorney Ariel Mitchell issued a biting response to the cease-and-desist notice. They took issue with Quincy and Christian’s assertion that Burgess is exploiting Kim’s fame. Instead, they downplayed her achievements, claiming her public recognition was primarily due to her long-term relationship with music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs.

Despite the contentious claims, Burgess insists he owns the copyright to the alleged book, stating that Kim granted him rights to her story prior to her untimely passing in 2018.

The Family Pushes Back

The Combs family has fiercely opposed the publication of the book, which they see as an invasion of privacy and an attempt to profit from Kim’s life and legacy. Quincy and Christian have made it clear they intend to protect their mother’s reputation and her memory, calling Burgess’ actions inappropriate and disrespectful.

What’s Next?

With both sides holding firm in their stances, the dispute could head to court if a resolution isn’t reached. For now, the battle underscores the ongoing challenges celebrities and their families face in maintaining privacy and control over their narratives—even after death.

Kim Porter, who passed away in 2018 at the age of 47, was a model, actress, and beloved mother whose life left an indelible mark on those who knew her. While the alleged Kim Porter Diary remains mired in controversy, her legacy continues to be celebrated by her family and fans worldwide.

This story is developing, and more updates are expected as the legal proceedings unfold.

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