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KAYTRANADA “TIMELESS” Album Review

June 11, 2024 by newhiphopnews

It’s impossible to divorce music from the social, cultural, and physical spaces that it was born out of and exists in, and when it comes to musicians perfectly evoking a particular location, KAYTRANADA is one of the industry’s most accomplished magicians. His production, songwriting, and groove-driven sensibilities allow him to turn any set of headphones or festival crowd into a 5AM nightclub propelled by killer house beats and even better melodies. It’s a staple of his career that brought vivid and lively projects in 99.9%, BUBBA, and the collab album KAYTRAMINÉ. But the question is, does TIMELESS allow us to immerse into that party or are we back to checking our phones?

If you’re at all a fan of the Haitian-Canadian creative, it’s no surprise that the latter option, albeit a big risk on this new hour-long album, is practically impossible. Compared to previous work, KAYTRANADA built something a little more consistent groove-wise, a little less exploratory in its genre fusions, but even more focused on crisp production, engaging songwriting, and keeping your mellowed attention with few breaks in mood or rhythm. It doesn’t always result in a winning formula, but it’s very compelling to hear these inspirations from so many genres coalesce into some of his best pop-adjacent material yet. If nothing else, it’s proof that the “#RICHAXXHAITIAN” musician can still have tricks up his sleeve even if the goal this time around is constance.

TIMELESS Sounds… You Know

“Pressure” is a perfect preview of this, as the rubbery kicks, chopped Lupe and Hov sample, and staccato keys let listeners know that this will go down as one of the funkiest albums of 2024. TIMELESS is a very fitting title, as the album’s main strengths are the cleanliness of the production and the cohesion and catchiness that the songwriting offers, aspects that KAYTRANADA owes most deeply to classic house and disco production plus its soul and funk roots. Other instrumental moments like “Dance Dance Dance Dance,” “Seemingly,” and “Please Babe” are impressive isolations of the beat-making’s prowess, whereas cuts like “Witchy” with Childish Gambino, “More Than A Little Bit” with Tinashe, and “Video” with Ravyn Lenae showcase bubbly, buttery, and satisfying interplay between verse melodies, instrumental embellishments, soaring choruses, and tension-building bridges.

Furthermore, as far as the production quality itself, there’s a consistent sheen to TIMELESS‘ tracks that puts it somewhere in between the brightness of 99.9% and the submerged feel of much of BUBBA. It doesn’t craft a wholly unique sonic identity, but it definitely switches things up here and there to entice and excite skeptics. There’s the melancholy “Feel A Way” with Don Toliver, the frantic and buzzy “Drip Sweat” with Channel Tres, and tender Latin percussion on cuts like “Lover/Friend” with Rochelle Jordan and “Hold On” with Dawn Richard. As for classic KAYTRANADA funk and groove, look no further than the infectious guitars on “Weird” with Durand Bernarr.

KAYTRANADA’s Curation

TIMELESS is perhaps KAYTRANADA’s most stacked and well-performing guest list to date. He himself grabs the mic on “Stepped On,” which is one of the more frustrated points in the album’s constant “highs and lows” narrative about falling in love, having fun, letting go, living in the moment, and all the things that the album doesn’t have to say for you to feel through the jams. In terms of chemistry, The collaborative highlight is easily “Do 2 Me” with Anderson .Paak and SiR, with the most progressive instrumental on the record. PinkPantheress also emerges as a no-brainer recipe for collaborative greatness on “Snap My Finger,” and we hope there’s more on the way.

However, despite the fitting but imperfect transitions and the generally cohesive aesthetics and guests, there are still some bare and stretched-out elements to TIMELESS that both casual listeners and longtime fans might dismiss. While the vocal melodies are always tight, the short runtimes on “Spit It Out” with Rochelle Jordan, “Call U Up” with Lou Phelps, and “Stuntin” with Channel Tres can’t save them from feeling disengaged loops towards the end. Still, Thundercat’s comical roasting sounds gorgeous on “Wasted Words,” and Charlotte Day Wilson’s performance is heavenly on “Still,” so it’s overall not a massive blemish.

Read More: KAYTRANADA’s Essential Tracks

What’s Next For KAYTRA?

With that in mind, the 31-year-old crafts music that is as lush, fun, catchy, intoxicating, and above all loving as it’s ever been on TIMELESS. It feels like the most amorphous, watery, and meticulous genre fusion that he’s done up to this point, even if it does sacrifice the vibrance and unpredictability of previous LPs for the consistency and wide appeal of what many might call a “pop era.” But KAYTRANADA worked too hard on this tracklist flow, the production, and the quality of the songwriting to say that as a dismissive comment. It’s just another step in his evolution, one that seems to target artistic growth in the studio over a sonic change in these sessions’ results.

Frankly, TIMELESS further defines the classic KAYTRANADA bounce as a single idea rather than the multi-faceted amalgamation of shifting focuses and appeals that albums like 99.9% are so beloved for. By the time we hit the jittery and wavy “Out Of Luck” with Mariah The Scientist, some aspects of this project might feel redundant to some listeners. But it’s primarily a house, funk, and disco record, and one that tactfully succeeds in keeping the groove alive, creating sweetly addictive songs, and immersing you in the party. Here’s hoping that KAYTRA’s next moves, no matter what direction they go in, continue to champion this timeless dedication and heartfelt passion for the joy of “Think (About It)” drum breaks and the warmth of melody.

Read More: Who Is KAYTRANADA?

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Celebrities Who’ve Had Honorary Degrees Revoked

June 11, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Revoking celebrities’ honorary degrees might be rare, but it is not unheard of. Sean “Diddy” Combs was awarded an honorary degree by Howard University at the school’s 2014 commencement ceremony. This was to celebrate his career achievements and contributions to the arts. However, it comes as no surprise that this honor was revoked recently in June 2024.

After a video surfaced showing Combs violently abusing his then-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, in 2016, his already depleting fame took an even bigger nosedive. Howard University also announced it would be cutting all ties with Diddy and might be returning his $1 million donation to the school. Diddy isn’t the only one to suffer this disgrace though. Here are five other notable names who have had their honorary degrees rescinded by a University.

Bill O’Reilly

Bill O’Reilly, a former television host and political commentator, gained popularity with his show The O’Reilly Factor on Fox News. He subsequently became one of the most prominent figures in cable news. O’Reilly was recognized for his conservative commentary until his career at Fox News ended in 2017. This came amid allegations of sexual harassment, which he has repeatedly denied.

Regardless, in response to these allegations, Marist College in New York, where O’Reilly had earned his Bachelor of Arts history degree in 1971, revoked the honorary degree it had awarded him. The college’s Board of Trustees cited the sexual harassment allegations and his reported settlements as being deeply contrary to the values of Marist College. This decision to revoke the degree was announced by the university on February 6, 2018. O’Reilly would later accuse the school of being corrupted by left-wing leadership on his No Spin News show in 2023. Nonetheless, the damage was already done.

Charlie Rose

TV personality Charlie Rose was known for his eponymous interview show Charlie Rose on PBS and Bloomberg. He also gained fame for his role as co-anchor on CBS This Morning. He maintained his journalism career for over four decades, and he was respected for his in-depth interviews with influential figures across various fields.

However, Rose’s reputation was tarnished when The Washington Post reported in November 2017 that eight women accused him of making unwanted sexual advances, including lewd comments and inappropriate behavior. Following these allegations, Sewanee: The University of the South revoked the honorary degree it had awarded to Rose when he delivered the university’s commencement address in spring 2016. This action, taken in March 2018, marked the first time Sewanee had rescinded an honorary degree. Additionally, SUNY Oswego started the process to rescind the honorary doctor of humane letters degree it awarded to Rose in 2014, after the allegations surfaced and he was fired by CBS.

Kanye West

Ye had his honorary degree revoked by The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). This marked the first time the institution would make such a move in over eight years. The degree was originally awarded to him in 2015, in recognition of his artistic achievements. However, following a series of controversial remarks made by Kanye, including anti-Black and antisemitic statements, the institution decided to rescind the honor in December 2022.

SAIC’s announced that their decision came after West made public comments that were widely condemned across the country. Evidently, his offensive remarks were not taken lightly. Moreover, the SAIC’s school president described Ye’s actions as “disgusting and condemnable”. The revocation of his honorary degree was also sped along by a Change.org petition. It accused Kanye of using his degree to legitimize hatred and violence. The petition would receive over 15,000 signatures.

Harvey Weinstein

Another celebrity personality who had their degree revoked was Harvey Weinstein. The disgraced former film producer was once dubbed “the king of Hollywood” by the media. Weinstein’s fall from grace began in October 2017, when The New York Times published a report detailing decades of allegations of sexual harassment and assault against him. This report led to a cascade of further allegations and ignited the #MeToo movement. As a result, many women came forward with their experiences of sexual misconduct in various industries.

In response to these allegations, The State University of New York (SUNY) Board of Trustees voted to revoke the honorary degree it had awarded Weinstein from the University at Buffalo. Weinstein had received this honorary SUNY doctorate in 2000. At the time, it was in recognition of his contributions to the film industry. However, the university began the process of rescinding the degree in October 2017, after the allegations became public. The revocation was official on November 15, 2017.

Bill Cosby

Bill Cosby, the once-celebrated comedian and actor, was awarded numerous honorary degrees during his career. Multiple prestigious universities bestowed him this honor, including Brown University in 1985, the University of South Carolina in 1986, and his alma mater Temple University in 1991. However, following his conviction on April 26, 2018, for three counts of aggravated indecent assault against Andrea Constand, a former basketball player and employee at Temple University, many institutions began revoking these honors. Some of the many revoked degrees were from Carnegie Mellon, Notre Dame, Boston College, and also Temple University. To date, over sixty honorary degrees that were awarded to Bill Cosby have been revoked, The Atlantic reports.

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7 Songs Drake Wrote For Other Artists

June 11, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Drake is known for his chart-topping hits and distinctive musical style. The Canadian rapper, singer, and songwriter has shown his ability to blend introspective lyrics with catchy melodies, making him a sought-after collaborator in the music industry. However, his talent transcends his own performances; Drake is also a prolific songwriter, and has song credits on several other artists’ work. Despite rumors and accusations that Drake hires ghostwriters, the rapper has proven himself by crafting songs for a variety of other artists. Most recently, his reference track for Lil Wayne’s 2010 track “I’m Single” surfaced online. Here are seven songs that Drake wrote for other artists.

7. “Un-Thinkable (I’m Ready)” – Alicia Keys (2009)

Released in 2009, “Un-Thinkable (I’m Ready)” is one of Alicia Keys’ most soulful ballads. The song delves into themes of love and vulnerability, and Drake has credits on the song as one of its co-writers. Upon release, fans immediately believed the song was about Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz’s relationship. The track also became a hit, reaching number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning widespread acclaim.

A year after its release, Nicki Minaj dropped the bomb that the song was written about her. About two weeks later, Drake also confirmed it. Speaking to BET, he confessed that he had written it based on a conversation he had with Nicki. He stated: “It is [about Minaj], I’m not gonna lie. The concept came from a conversation that we had, or conversations we have. I wrote it based off two things: number one, based off that, and then two, based on Alicia and Swizz and their situation and it just seemed fitting. It was like the perfect concept.”

6. “I Been That Girl” – Melanie Fiona (2012)

Long before the fame and fortune, Drake was still killing it in the songwriting game. While he was still in Toronto, he was a part of a group called The Renaissance. After the group disbanded, Drake co-wrote “I Been That Girl” for his former Renaissance bandmate, Melanie Fiona. While the song was never released as a single, it was included on Fiona’s second album The MF Life, which also featured collaborations with T-Pain, John Legend, Nas, and J. Cole.

5. “Fall For Your Type” – Jamie Foxx Ft. Drake (2010)

“Fall For Your Type” is a heartfelt R&B track performed by Jamie Foxx, released in 2010. While the track was originally intended for Drake’s debut album Thank Me Later, it did not make it on the album. Upon hearing the song for the first time, Jamie Foxx reportedly fell in love with it and subsequently decided to re-record it. Moreover, he ultimately included it on his fourth studio album, Best Night Of My Life. Beyond song credits, Drake also appears as a featured artist. “Fall For Your Type” became quite popular, even reaching number one on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs Chart.

4 “R.I.P.” – Rita Ora Ft. Tinie Tempah (2012)

Rita Ora’s “R.I.P.,” from her 2012 album Ora was a hit, and Drake shares song credits on the track. “R.I.P.”’s success helped Rita Ora establish herself as a rising star in the music industry, peaking at number one on the UK Singles Chart. Furthermore, the song blends elements from Drake’s “I’m Ready For You,” and the Chase & Status remix of Nneka’s “Heartbreak.” Drake had originally written “I’m Ready For You” for Rihanna, but the singer passed on it.

3. “I’m Single” – Lil Wayne (2009)

Drake has a long-standing collaborative relationship with Lil Wayne, and “I’m Single” is evidently a prime example of their synergy. Co-written by Drake, the track was featured on Lil Wayne’s 2009 mixtape No Ceilings. Although the remix featuring Drake was set to be on Wayne’s album I Am Not a Human Being, it was later re-released. Several years later, on June 6, 2024, a reference track for “I’m Single” was released.

2. “Mine” – Beyoncé Ft. Drake (2013)

“Mine,” a track from Beyoncé’s acclaimed self-titled 2013 album, showcases a fusion of R&B and Hip Hop. Both Drake and Beyoncé share song credits, and the former is also a featured artist. “Mine” was a standout track on the album, addressing themes of motherhood and marriage with poignant clarity. The song also featured Drake’s distinct lyrical style, blending it with Beyoncé’s powerful voice.

1. “30 Hours” – Kanye West Ft. Andre 3000 (2016)

Despite their rocky relationship, Drake and Ye are longtime collaborators, and have song credits on multiple joints together. Evidently, their musical chemistry is undeniably strong. Drake co-wrote two songs “30 Hours” and “Facts” on Ye’s seventh album Life of Pablo. “30 Hours” features samples from Arthur Russell’s 1986 track “Answers Me,” and the drumbeat from Isaac Hayes’ 1973 single “Joy,” both of which are also credited on the track.

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Bad Bunny Finally Comes Home & Closes His “Most Wanted” Tour With Stellar Puerto Rican Shows: Review

June 10, 2024 by newhiphopnews

San Juan, Puerto Rico’s José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum had likely never seen as many cowboy hats before the night of Friday, June 7. Dozens of thousands of fans arrived at the first of three sold-out nights hosted by Bad Bunny, officially culminating his “Most Wanted” North American tour. This supported the superstar’s latest album, 2023’s nadie sabe lo que va a pasar mañana, and despite its distinct Western theme, it’s also clear that this is the rollout most overtly dedicated to his home since the X100PRE days, and even that’s a stretch. Sure, he always reps Boricua culture, and that obviously translates swimmingly to the most well-equipped crowd in the world to sing along with him. But PR heard nadie sabe first with a listening party, and culminating its tour by coming back home makes that pride all the more potent.

Furthermore, one of the most viral quotes from this three-night stay at “El Choli” is an accurate assessment: if you’ve seen Bad Bunny perform, but haven’t seen a Puerto Rico show, you haven’t seen him perform at all (speaking selfishly, let’s keep it that way if you’re not Boricua). With an extra hour of runtime compared to his other “Most Wanted” dates, more special guests, and PR-specific embellishments and set-ups, the leader of “La Nueva Religión” went all out… what else is new? This writer’s seen BadBo about six times, from sweaty PR high school homecoming parties in 2016 all the way to headlining Philadelphia’s Made In America festival in 2022. While a lot of what made this San Juan show on June 7 so great is par the course for him, many factors cemented this among his most successful performance runs yet.

Bad Bunny’s Evolution As A Performer

Así arrancó el Most Wanted Tour de Bad Bunny en el Coliseo de Puerto Rico pic.twitter.com/FlbcepvGWR

— NotiCel (@noticel) June 8, 2024

Bad Bunny’s growth behind the mic and amid a spotlit stage paid off in dividends with this “Most Wanted” opening show in Puerto Rico. He hits his high notes more consistently, rips through his verses with more energy, seems entirely self-aware and calm when it comes to his body language and stage awareness, and remained consistently engaged with crowd energies. Sometimes, Benito fell victim to audio syncing and mic volume issues that have plagued previous PR shows. But with each whack at this curveball throughout his career, he’s gotten better at checking himself and mitigating the situation on the spot. Most importantly, the 30-year-old gave the crowd heart-to-heart moments, albeit less than usual. He spoke on his insecurities as a global titan, thanking his day ones (or day zeros, as he often refers to Boricuas), and inspiring and supporting the youth.

Furthermore, Bad Bunny’s stage presence and set-up for this show surely captivated many first-time concert-goers in attendance. Two small stages held most of the action: one was at one extreme of the coliseum, and the other was about two-thirds of the way to the other side, leaving the general admission crowd in the middle. Above them was a massive railway that rotated so that he could walk out and be closer to many different parts of the venue. The Vega Bajeño always ensures maximum engagement across all price points and altitude levels. With fireworks, psychedelic and nimble lighting, multi-faceted choreography with around 20 dancers, Jumbotron visual effects, and live musical performance elements we’ll get to soon, you are just as prone to falling into a trance whether you’re in the front row or “cambiando bombillas” in the nosebleeds.

Benito’s Most Cohesive Setlist

Bad Bunny interpretando “LA SANTA” en su primer show en Puerto Rico pic.twitter.com/JRsiQD3lIl

— DIOS BUNNY (@diosbunnyy) June 8, 2024

Bad Bunny, the madman that he is, ran through 49 songs on June 7 and still missed so many of his biggest hits. But what felt different about this “Most Wanted” tour stop was how deliberate, cohesive, and thematically structured the run of tracks felt. First off, the Philharmonic Orchestra Project, directed by Colombian musician Carlitos Lopez, played the Puerto Rican national anthem and three other pieces before B.B. emerged with “NADIE SABE.” The nadie sabe focus persisted until these classic Latin trap-inspired cuts transitioned into… you guessed it: El Conejo Malo’s classic Latin trap.

Some more nadie sabe records followed, then an acoustic rendition of many of his sadder and more love-centric songs with pianist Tiffany Román, and finally, a collection of his reggaetón bangers and Boricua-pride-themed anthems. A “batucada” (percussive ensemble) walked out onstage and ended the night with a rendition of “El Apagón” alongside Bad Bunny, complete with “cabezudos” and a dancer waving the Puerto Rican flag with a Palestinian one painted on.

Special guests on June 7 included some of PR’s new and old leaders: Young Miko, Mora, Bryant Myers, De La Ghetto, Ñengo Flow, and Arcángel. Yet they didn’t overshadow the significance that this setlist structure offered. Rather than stick to the script and go to this album’s hits, then this one’s, and so on, Bad Bunny outlined a more nuanced and emotionally progressive view of his artistry and its many facets compared to setlists of years past. There were also particularly impressive remixes of certain tracks, such as killer bass and strings on “MR. OCTOBER,” a particularly gorgeous “Si Estuviésemos Juntos” take, and an absolutely nasty and industrial electronic outro for “BATICANO.”

“Ahora Estoy En Mi Prime”

This electric and satisfying setlist was also bolstered by some visual elements, namely two short videos. A compilation of previous concert footage, horseback riding, Boricua views and citizens, and narration from Bad Bunny himself provided a reflection on how he chose to end the “Most Wanted” tour in San Juan, Puerto Rico because this excitement to play at home was what fueled his travels in the rest of North America. This played at the beginning, and another horse-backed clip about halfway through emphasized the loneliness that his fame and status created in him, not just in relation to the wider pop culture and celebrity sphere worldwide, but in PR itself. After all, attendees were notified before the show started that they would probably appear in the concert taping that most Puerto Rican movie theaters played live on Friday and Saturday night.

With so many shows under Benito’s belt, so much global success, and such a proud Puerto Rican identity, it can feel like he’s at a disconnect with his roots, his career, and his personal life no matter what he does. It’s the celebrity machine eating away at the spirit that blew us away with “Tu No Vive Asi,” “Diles,” and many more SoundCloud standards almost a decade ago. But more so than he did overseas, Bad Bunny backed up his impassioned professions of love and gratitude for the archipelago, its people, and his loved ones with a performance worthy of that emotion, perhaps the worthiest on a technical level since his ascent. There’s a well-worn rawness and familiarity to his PR shows that wasn’t lost here, a repetitive but inexplicably special quality that his superstardom should never take for granted.

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Tommie Lee Arrested For Battery In Miami: What We Know

June 10, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Reality TV star Tommie Lee found herself in legal trouble once again after a bizarre incident at Miami’s LIV Nightclub that allegedly ended in a physical confrontation, TMZ reports. There haven’t been many details regarding the altercation, which naturally raised questions on what exactly transpired. According to police reports and eyewitness accounts, the situation quickly escalated, culminating in Tommie’s detention by local authorities.

The Incident At LIV Nightclub

tommie lee arrest — (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) ATLANTA, GA – JANUARY 27 : Tommie Lee attends Roger Bonds Birthday Celebration at Compound on January 27, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia.(photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)

On Sunday night, the Baddies star night took an unexpected turn when she was arrested at LIV Nightclub in Miami. According to Miami PD records obtained by TMZ Hip Hop, the altercation began outside the club’s entrance. A man claimed that he believed Tommie approached him in an attempt to hand him an unknown object. The man, who had never met Tommie before, refused to take the item, which allegedly sparked a violent reaction from the reality star.

Allegations Of Aggression

The man, whose identity has not been disclosed, reported that after he refused the item, Tommie Lee became belligerent and aggressive. He further alleged that Tommie threatened his life, saying she would have him killed. This alarming statement reportedly led the man to take immediate action. Fearing for his safety, the man grabbed Tommie by the arms, turned her around, and restrained her until the police arrived. This decisive move prevented the situation from escalating further but also placed Tommie in a compromising position when law enforcement arrived on the scene.

Police Involvement & Surveillance Footage

When Miami PD officers arrived, they took statements from both parties involved. The police report indicates that officers reviewed surveillance footage from the nightclub. The video evidence reportedly corroborated the man’s version of events sufficiently, leading to Tommie’s arrest for misdemeanor battery.

Tommie Lee’s Previous Arrests * Charges

This latest incident is not Tommie Lee’s first encounter with the law. The reality star has a history of legal issues, including multiple arrests. Notably, in 2018, she was arrested for child cruelty charges after allegedly assaulting her daughter at her middle school. Tommie faced additional legal troubles in 2016 and 2017 for charges ranging from DUI to driving without a license.

Legal Repercussion

Tommie Lee’s night at LIV Nightclub ended in an unexpected arrest after an altercation with a man who accused her of belligerence and threats. With police and surveillance footage backing the man’s claims, Tommie now faces misdemeanor battery charges. The incident has added to her legal woes, raising questions about the future of her television career and public image.

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Ice Cube Albums, Ranked

June 10, 2024 by newhiphopnews

There aren’t many hip-hop legends who resonate as strongly as Ice Cube. As a member of N.W.A. and a successful solo career, Ice Cube consistently challenges the status quo, addresses social issues, and delivers raw, unfiltered narratives that hit hard. His body of work speaks for itself and is required listening for any hip-hop head’s library. Here’s a look at Ice Cube’s solo albums, ranked from least impactful to most iconic.

Read More: Who Did Ice Cube Influence?

10. War & Peace Vol. 1: The War Disc (1998)

Kicking off the list is War & Peace Vol. 1: The War Disc, which doesn’t live up to Cube’s usual standards. Despite ambitious production collaborations, the album lacks cohesion. Too many self-produced tracks and a lack of solid production overall just weigh it down. While Cube’s lyrics aren’t perfect, they always shine through, showing glimpses of the profound verses that define Ice Cube’s best albums.

9. I Am The West (2010)

Cube tries to bridge generational gaps in hip-hop with I Am the West, but the way he does it feels a bit outdated. There’s a lot of talk about the shallowness of the “ringtone rapper generation” and the widening social class divide on this album, but some tracks like “No Country For Young Men” seem disconnected from the current hip-hop scene. In its context, songs like “She Couldn’t Make It on Her Own” seem disjointed from the other tracks, and the familiar West Coast production isn’t enough to lift the album.

Read More: Ice Cube’s Greatest Acting Roles

8. Raw Footage (2008)

In some ways, it feels like Cube is retreading old ground rather than offering new insights on Raw Footage, Cube’s most politically charged album since The Predator. The production, primarily done by lesser-known producers, offers a raw, minimalistic feel that can sound refreshingly authentic at times, but also strangely archaic. Singles like “Gangsta Rap Made Me Do It” show off Cube’s wordplay, but certain moments feel self-serving.

7. Laugh Now, Cry Later (2006)

With Laugh Now, Cry Later, Cube returned to the music scene after 6 years. The album starts off strong, addressing social issues with tracks like “Guns And Drugs,” where Cube critiques both George Bush administrations. In addition to the club-friendly “Smoke Some Weed,” it’s got a mix of old-school beats and new talent. On tracks like “Go to Church” and “You Gotta Lotta That,” both featuring Snoop Dogg, Lil Jon brings a fresh sound to the album, fusing West Coast vibes with Southern crunk.

6. Everythang’s Corrupt (2018)

Everythang’s Corrupt was released after a decade-long hiatus, taking Cube back to his sociopolitical roots. On tracks like “Arrest The President” and “Chase Down The Bully,” he demonstrates his razor-sharp wordplay, while “Good Cop Bad Cop” and the title track showcase his thought-provoking lyrics. The album’s instrumentation echoes classic West Coast rap, maintaining high energy throughout. Cube proved that he still had something to say three decades after N.W.A. dropped Straight Outta Compton.

5. War & Peace Vol. 2: The Peace Disc (2000)

It’s great to see Cube mature as an artist on War & Peace Vol. 2: The Peace Disc, but it’s not consistent. While there are thought-provoking songs like “Record Company Pimpin’,” some radio-friendly hits like “Can You Bounce?” just don’t vibe with the whole album. Cube’s lyrics are impressive, but he switches back and forth between catchier, radio-friendly hooks and deeper, message-driven tracks, which makes the album feel unfocused.

4. Lethal Injection (1993)

Cube’s sound shifts toward G-Funk on Lethal Injection. It’s got some killer tracks like “You Know How We Do It” and “Bop Gun (One Nation),” but it’s also missing some qualities that made his earlier work so compelling. What’s significant is that it’s one of Ice Cube’s first independent albums, which allowed him greater creative freedom and to make more money off its success.

3. AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted (1990)

With high expectations surrounding his debut solo album, AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted, Cube released his first effort after leaving N.W.A. Produced by Public Enemy’s The Bomb Squad, this is one of Ice Cube’s albums that explores inner-city life from every angle. Cube’s aggressive style shines through on tracks like “Turn Off the Radio,” while The Bomb Squad’s production adapts well to Cube’s intense subject matter on “Endangered Species.” Despite its era, AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted is an enduring exploration of unrest, integrity, and hip-hop’s social impact.

2. Death Certificate (1991)

Death Certificate, Cube’s sophomore album, stirred significant controversy with its racially and politically charged content. “Life Side” and “Death Side” give an eye-opening perspective on inner-city life. Songs like “Black Korea” came under fire from critics, while “A Bird in the Hand” captured the plight of young black men. An already powerful album ends with the N.W.A diss track “No Vaseline.”

1. The Predator (1992)

Top of the list is Cube’s The Predator, his highest-selling album and perhaps his most important. Released in the wake of the Los Angeles riots, this powerful album reflects the tensions of the time. The Predator may not be Cube’s best album, but it certainly remains his most successful and possibly most noteworthy work. As much as “It Was a Good Day” provides a brief respite, it’s quickly overshadowed by songs like “We Had to Tear This Mothaf—a Up,” which proves Cube’s ability to capture and convey the current culture.

From the explosive energy of AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted to the sociopolitical impact of Death Certificate and the relevance of The Predator, Ice Cube’s discography shows his evolution as an influential voice in hip-hop. The albums not only illustrate his storytelling and lyricism but also serve as a powerful commentary on the American experience. Explore Ice Cube’s albums if you’re a longtime fan or new to his work, and you’ll get a glimpse into hip-hop’s heart and soul.

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Drama Unfolds: Jennifer Lopez’s Top 7 Public Scandals

June 10, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Jennifer Lopez is no stranger to the spotlight. Her multifaceted career, spanning music, film, and fashion, made her a household name. However, J.Lo’s journey has been marked by a series of scandals and controversies that captivated fans and critics alike. These Jennifer Lopez scandals ranged from high-profile relationships and legal battles to issues with other celebrities. They somewhat shaped her public persona and offered a glimpse into the tumultuous side of fame.

The Jennifer Lopez and Diddy Nightclub Shooting Scandal

Jennifer and Diddy were involved in an explosive relationship from 1999 to 2001. The pair first met while producing the actress’s first album, On The 6, and soon hit it off. However, things took a bad turn in December 1999 after J. Lo and Diddy got involved in a shooting incident outside a nightclub in New York. The drama began when the police stopped the couple and two other members of their party in their car while driving away from the shooting scene. According to reports, the cops found a gun in the vehicle and took all four in for questioning. They were charged with criminal possession of a weapon and stolen property. However, after considering all the evidence, the officials dropped all charges against Jennifer that same day. In the end, the scandal gave J.Lo negative publicity, which she continues to deal with today amid Diddy’s recent legal troubles.

Jennifer Lopez Sings for Turkmenistan President

In 2013, Jennifer Lopez was in a PR scandal after performing at a Turkmenistan event. The singer sang “Happy Birthday” to then-president Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov during the gig. At the time, Human Rights Watch ranked the former Soviet Republic’s government as one of the world’s most repressive leaders. Also, the president was tagged as an authoritarian who imprisoned and tortured citizens who criticized his regime. Given the leader’s bad reputation, J.Lo’s performance landed her in hot water. Human rights activists criticized the celebrity for not only receiving nearly $2 million for her gig but also indirectly standing for human rights violations. Eventually, Jennifer apologized via a statement, noting that she wouldn’t have attended the concert if she had known the country’s human rights record.

Jennifer Lopez & Ojani Noa’s Alleged Sex Tape Scandal

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One of Jennifer Lopez’s scandals that stands out to date is the sex tape scandal involving the Marry Me star and her first husband, Ojani Noa. The former couple tied the knot in 1997, but their marriage ended quickly in 1998. At the time of their separation, Ojani had signed a non-disclosure agreement with the singer. The document prohibited him from revealing any personal details of their time together. However, Jennifer sought legal action after Ojani threatened to make the sex tape from their honeymoon public. At the time, Ojani’s business partner, Ed Meyer, revealed that there were loopholes in the contract, adding that they were going to make the tape public.

“We are going to produce a DVD and also have a streaming release of JLo home footage. There is a revealing video of her with lack of clothing and in sexual situations, especially in the hotel footage from the honeymoon,” he told In Touch. However, the court eventually obtained the 11-hour-long footage from Ojani and ensured he didn’t make copies, stopping his malicious plans.

Meghan McCain Calls Jennifer Lopez’s “Deeply Unpleasant”

In June 2024, Jennifer made the headlines after receiving harsh criticism from Meghan McCain. In an episode of her Citizen McCain podcast, the former The View co-host described the pop star as a deeply unpleasant person. “I, too, share similar negative stories that apparently the world does too. I actually feel bad right now because we’re turning to a point where there’s bullying happening to J.Lo… She just is a deeply unpleasant person,” Meghan said. The political commentator recalled an off-putting encounter with the pop star when she appeared on The View. Meghan remembered Jennifer bringing the biggest entourage she had ever seen. “Her team was more than Kim Kardashian and the president. I just don’t really understand why it was needed,” she said. Meghan also noted that Jennifer wasn’t nice during her time on the show.

Jennifer Lopez Caught In Shocking Cheating Scandal

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In 2017, Jennifer Lopez was embroiled in another scandal. This time, the drama was all thanks to the movie star’s then-partner, Alex “A-Rod” Rodriguez. Reports revealed the former baseball star allegedly exchanged a string of sordid X-rated texts with the much younger fitness instructor Lauren Hunter. Although Lauren claimed she wasn’t intimate with A-Rod after he started dating Jennifer, she said he begged her for X-rated photos a week after the power couple went public with their romance. As expected, the cheating scandal reportedly left J.Lo feeling devastated. Insiders claimed the star was caught off guard, heartbroken and in disbelief that A-rod would betray her.

Jennifer Lopez’s Audition Drama

Over the years, Jennifer has been involved in a series of dramas involving her and her backup dancers. In 2022, she was the center of attention for the wrong reasons after reportedly conducting a dance audition for her tour. Glee star Heather Morris called out Jennifer Lopez, claiming she had the most bizarre selection process. During an appearance on the Just Sayin’ With Justin Martindale podcast, Heather claimed Jennifer cut potential dancers based on astrological signs. “She walks in the room and said, ‘Thank you so much, you guys have worked so hard. By a show of hands if there are any Virgos in the room, can you just raise your hand?’” Heather explained. In the end, Jennifer allegedly asked them to leave after a full day of auditioning.

Ayo Edebiri Calls Jennifer Lopez’s Career a Scam

In February 2024, Ayo Edebiri and Jennifer were booked to appear together on a Saturday Night Live episode. However, ahead of their SNL duties, an audio clip of Ayo on the Scam Goddess podcast in 2020 resurfaced. The comedian referred to Jennifer’s career as a scam in the clip. “Today I was actually thinking about one of my favorite scams of all time because J. Lo is performing at the Super Bowl Halftime Show,” Ayo said at the time, as Jennifer was set to perform at the Super Bowl LIV halftime show with Shakira. “Her whole career is one long scam… She thinks she’s on multiple tracks, but it’s not her. I think she thinks that she’s still good even though she’s not singing for most of these songs.” However, Jennifer later revealed that Ayo tearfully apologized after her past comments resurfaced.

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Tems “Born In The Wild” Review

June 10, 2024 by newhiphopnews

After a long wait, Tems finally delivered in style with her debut album. The songstress initially gained recognition in 2019 when her song “Try Me” became a hit, and she became a ubiquitous force across the global music scene. The release of For Broken Ears in September 2020 and If Orange Was A Place in 2021 helped set the stage while her appearance on Wizkid’s “Essence” took her to new heights, earning her a Grammy nomination and a platinum plaque.

That undoubtedly jumpstarted a fruitful run, leading to her credited appearance on Future and Drake’s “Wait For U” and her first Grammy win. Then, her contributions to Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack — a cover of Bob Marley’s “No Woman, No Cry” and co-writing Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up” — earned Golden Globe Award and Oscar nominations for Best Original Song — Motion Picture. Despite these and many more achievements, some considered Tems’s success a fluke due to her collaboration with WizKid. On her debut album, Born In The Wild, she proved her critics and doubters wrong and sealed her status as a global superstar.

Tems’ Debut Album Theme

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One thing to note in Tem’s debut album is that she did it on her terms. The 18-track album tells the story of personal growth and rise to stardom through impressive and emotionally driven songwriting. In the titular track, “Born In The Wild,” Tems sings, “I grew up in the wilderness/I didn’t know much about openness.” Then, on “Wickedest,” she reflects on her success in singing, “Yeah, I’m the one got the scene banging/And I go hard that’s why they keep talking/Three years and I’m only just getting started.“

Tems’ quest for true and long-lasting love is seen in the previously released “Me & U” and “Love Me Jeje.” Although she admits to longing for that kind of love, she draws a line regarding toxic relationships. We see this in “Boy O Boy,” a potential heartbreak anthem, where Tems calmly sings of her desire to hurt the man who broke her heart. Some of the lyrics include “Sometimes I want to strangle you,” “You are a pain in my brain,” and “I wonder how I love a thing like you.” Meanwhile, in “Unfortunate,” Tems belts out about detaching from a lover she can no longer trust. Born In The Wild is thus themed around mental and self-growth, love, and heartbreak. Through her vulnerability, her debut album resulted in a perfect victory in her career.

Features

Versatility was a theme throughout the 54-minute album. Tems surprised people with her collaboration with Asake on “Get It Right.” It wasn’t a collaboration many saw coming, but both artists showed they could handle any musical challenge. Tems’ vocals excelled in the Fuji-infused Amapiano sound, while Asake’s lyrics blended excellently with the song’s cool vibe.

Tems features J. Cole on “Free Fall.” The Fayetteville rapper has been maligned lately amid the Kendrick Lamar-Drake beef, but he showed he remains one of the best rappers alive with his superb wordplay on the track. Backed by Tems’ majestic vocals and a gentle beat, J. Cole belted out lyrics about the topsy-turvy nature of relationships. Born In The Wild has just two features, but they are so perfect that you could wish for more.

However, the depth of her musicality extends beyond her direct collaborators. Throughout the project, she samples classic songs; complementing the groundwork created by the artists before while innovating these sounds for a modern era. We already saw her majestic creativity when she sampled Seyi Sodimu’s “Love Me Jeje,” but there was more to come in Born In The Wild. The 28-year-old took the sampling game a notch higher on “Wickedest,” which began with Ivorian band Magic System’s “1er Gaou.” You won’t also miss Tems’ expert sampling of Diana King’s “L-L-Lies” in “Gangsta.”

Wrapping It All Up

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Tems’ Born In The Wild is not an album where she introduces herself. Instead, she climbed to new heights and solidified her status as a global superstar who is here to stay. Tems won more people to her corner with her incredulous show of versatility. The GuiltyBeatz-produced “Burning” is a soothing song that has all the powers to brighten your day. “Turn Me Up” has the makings of a summer jam. Tems outdid herself on the up-tempo banger produced by London. She infused reggae adlibs that ensure you are vibed up from the beginning to the end.

The singer showed her greatness as an R&B artist but wasn’t scared to explore, as she ventured into dancehall, amapiano, afro-pop, and some reggae. She even tested her rap skills on “T-Unit,” where she nodded to 50 Cent’s “Candy Shop.” She stayed true to her sound and never left people questioning her intentions. The album’s production is top-notch. Most of the songs were produced by Tems and her longtime collaborator, GuiltyBeatz. Sarz produced “Get It Right,” P2J produced “Free Fall,” and London produced “Turn Me Up.” Other producers who contributed to the album include Nsikak David, DameDame, and Spax.

Tems’ Born In The Wild album is a project for those who strive to win. It is for those who go against all odds to find their true selves and enjoy the success that comes with victory. Like she sings in “Hold On,” just hold on, and that which you seek will find you. Tems has found herself and showed us what more she can do, but that is not where it stops — there is so much more to come.

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The-Dream Drama: His 5 Wildest Controversies

June 10, 2024 by newhiphopnews

He might be a Grammy-winning songwriter, and behind numerous hits, but The-Dream might also be a nightmare for a few. Terius Youngdell Nash, better known as The-Dream, is a celebrated figure in the music industry and a magnet for drama and scandals. The songwriter and producer gained recognition for his work with notable high-profile artists, contributing to hit songs such as Rihanna’s “Umbrella,” Beyonce’s “Single Ladies,” Mariah Carey’s “Obsessed,” and Justin Bieber’s “Baby.” The-Dream’s career, punctuated by both musical genius and personal drama, has kept him in the public eye for more reasons than just his chart-topping hits. Now, he faces some seriously damning allegations of rape and sexual assault. Here are some of his wildest controversies to date.

2010: Copyright Infringement

In 2010, Oakland-based songwriters accused Mariah Carey and The-Dream of stealing music from their 2008 song “Are You the One” for “Love vs. Money,” a track on The-Dream’s album. Marshall and Driver sued them for $450,000 for copyright infringement. Four years later, the parties settled. In February, Carey agreed to dismiss all claims against her, and in April, The-Dream settled with Marshall and Driver under the same terms as Carey. According to the agreement, each party would pay its own legal fees.

2011: A Cheating Scandal

The-Dream married singer and actress Christina Milian in September 2009. Just five months after their wedding, he filed for divorce, nine months before the birth of Milian’s daughter Violet. Although they had been dating for a few months, their marriage was a celebrated affair that came to an end very quickly. He declared that he and Milian’s marriage was irrevocably broken and had no hope for reconciliation. However, before the divorce was finalized, photos of The-Dream vacationing in the Caribbean with his assistant, Melissa Santiago, surfaced and quickly spread.

In response, he issued a public apology on his website, apologizing to everyone involved. A year later, in an issue of Latina, Milian opened up about her marriage to The-Dream, and the drama surrounding it. What particularly stood out was when she confessed that she had known nothing about his cheating. “I’ve been to hell and back, but I survived,” she said. “I tried to be someone I wasn’t because I wanted my marriage to work. But ultimately, if it’s not working, it’s not working… I didn’t know anything. Looking back, my gut was telling me something was off. But I thought I could fix it.”

2012: Parenting Issues

As if the very public divorce wasn’t enough, the exes went on a dramatic and feud-filled post-divorce period. However, one of the issues that caught public attention was Christina Milian opening up about The-Dream’s absence in their daughter’s life. In an interview with The Box, Christina explained that The-Dream does not try to see or spend time with their daughter. She stated: “I’m not happy at the moment, but I have come to the realization that I have to be 200% mum for her and it’s not about finances, it’s about spending time… I’m not one of those who withhold their children from their baby daddy. I don’t do that.”

The interview immediately stirred up drama and backlash on The-Dream’s end as fans and onlookers quickly brought up his interview with Parlour Magazine. Specifically, the singer had mentioned that he would not help raise his daughter. He stated: “I don’t because my ‘helping out’ turns into expectations. I’ll get Violet on a late night maybe one or two times, but after that, no. If Christina’s tired, call the nanny, call Violet’s granny. We got people.”

2014: Domestic Violence Allegations

In 2014, The-Dream’s drama took a more violent turn. According to TMZ, He was arrested on charges of felony assault and strangulation, along with misdemeanor assault, reckless endangerment, and child endangerment. His then-pregnant ex-girlfriend, Lydia Nam filed the complaint and claimed he assaulted her in a fit of rage in 2013. The alleged assault reportedly occurred at New York’s Plaza Hotel three months before the birth of their son. Nam delayed filing a police report until November for undisclosed reasons. The-Dream had previously denied the allegations, and there was speculation that Nam might have been using the accusation to extend her visa. Ultimately, the D.A. rejected the case after Nam refused to press charges and the charges were dropped due to lack of evidence. Regardless, the case drew significant media attention and the incident left a stain on his songwriter’s image.

2024: The-Dream Faces Rape Allegations

Drama has once again found The-Dream in 2024. He is being accused of rape and sexual battery, among other allegations, by his former protégée, Chanaaz Mangroe, also known as Channii Monroe. In her suit, she claims that in 2015, The-Dream used promises of career advancement to entangle her in an abusive relationship. Furthermore, he also allegedly repeatedly forced her to have sex with him, and strangled her. She also alleges that he once made a video recording of an intimate encounter and threatened to show it to others.

Additionally, the suit accuses him of sex trafficking. In response to the suit, The-Dream released a statement through his representative, denying the allegations. “These claims are untrue and defamatory. I oppose all forms of harassment and have always strived to help people realize their career goals. As someone committed to making a positive impact on my fellow artists and the world at large, I am deeply offended and saddened by these accusations.”

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Alexander “AE” Edwards & Cher Relationship Timeline

June 10, 2024 by newhiphopnews

What’s a 40-year age gap when there’s love? After all, according to global music icon Cher and her beau, Alexander “AE” Edwards, “Love doesn’t know math.” Their unexpected romance has transcended the significant age gap, and united two individuals from vastly different backgrounds. As a result, they’ve continued to appear across media headlines, and they’ve been vocally supportive of one another. Recently, amid AE and Travis Scott’s public scuffle at Cannes, Cher shared some love for her man, writing that while he didn’t start the fight, “He Finished It.” If that’s not riding for your man, then what is? Here’s a look at the timeline of Cher and AE’s intimate relationship.

October 2022: Cher And AE Strike A Connection

Cher and Alexander Edwards met at Paris Fashion Week. She stated in a tweet the next month that the music executive had been the one to approach her. She wrote: “He’s 36 & In End He Came after me, Till we met in the middle. He’s Consistent one, I’m The Skittish one. We love each other…. LADIES NEVER GIVE UP.”

November 2022: Rumor Had It

On November 1, 2022, Cher posted a somewhat cryptic tweet. She wrote: “One part of my life is SO AMAZING.” While some fans were confused, many were happy for whatever (or whoever) the icon’s tweet was alluding to. Rumors began to swirl when Cher was spotted with AE on a night out with rapper Tyga. The pair were photographed leaving a restaurant in Los Angeles hand-in-hand. According to TMZ, the trio had dinner at Craig’s, and after midnight, Edwards and Cher rode in the same car heading to The Nice Guy for a bit more fun.

This night out unsurprisingly immediately sparked speculation about the nature of their relationship. A day later, Cher confirmed the dating rumors by posting a picture of her new beau, with the caption: “Alexander” followed by a heart emoji. While some fans shared their support for her new relationship, others shared concerns about Edwards’ intentions. She responded with a tweet, writing: “As we All Know…I WASNT BORN YESTERDAY, & What I Know For Sure…There Are No Guarantees. Anytime you make a Choice You Take a Chance. I’ve Always Taken Chances…It’s WHO I Am.”

December 2022: Cher And AE Spark Engagement Rumors

THERE R NO WORDS,
ALEXANDER,A.E pic.twitter.com/TZOYLGVWkv

— Cher (@cher) December 25, 2022

As the holiday season approached, Cher and AE were spotted together more frequently. The couple were often seen attending events and enjoying intimate dinners. Evidently, their chemistry was undeniable, and the couple appeared to be genuinely happy. For Christmas, Cher and AE gifted fans some pictures that immediately sent everyone into a frenzy. Cher had posted a picture of the rapper sporting green flame nails while holding a pear-shaped diamond ring. The caption read: “THERE R NO WORDS, Alexander, A.E.” This sparked engagement rumors, but Cher followed that post with another cheeky tweet. She wrote: “I posted this cause his nails are so cool.”

January 2023: Love In The Limelight

This should Send you Haters to The Part in Wizzard of OZ…WHEN DOROTHY THREW WATER ON THE wicked Witch & Melted her. pic.twitter.com/VDqYtoNHAG

— Cher (@cher) January 1, 2023

New Year’s came with a bang, as Cher posted a picture of her and AE together while she was wearing the ring on her middle finger. The picture featured Edwards kissing Cher on the cheek and holding her hand. It was captioned: “Happy New Year Daddy.” Furthermore, in a tweet featuring the two looking at each other lovingly, she wrote: “This should Send you Haters to The Part in Wizzard of OZ…WHEN DOROTHY THREW WATER ON THE wicked Witch & Melted her.”

March-September 2023: Is It All Over?

ae cher relationship — Alexander “AE” Edwards and Cher, winner of the Icon award, pose in the press room at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards held at the Dolby Theatre on April 1, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Billboard via Getty Images)

In March, Cher shared with E! News that she was working on some music with AE. She stated: “I’m going to England to make two albums. Some of the songs, Alexander gave me, so I’m pretty excited about that. He’s a producer and a writer and he does everything, so I’m happy about that.” The support for the couple’s relationship was growing by the day.

However, despite their strong bond, it seemed Cher and Edwards had already hit a wall in their relationship. In May 2023, an insider told E! News that the beloved couple had called it quits. The insider said that while the couple had split weeks ago, they remain amicable. However, four months after the supposed breakup, Cher and Edwards were spotted by Page Six holding hands as they headed to dinner with some friends. Evidently, the couple had reconciled and were back together.

October 2023: Cher And AE Celebrate One Year Together

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In October, Cher and AE were photographed attending the Valentino fashion show at Paris Fashion Week. Cher shared a picture of herself and Edwards heading to an H&M premiere party for her new Christmas album, which Edwards contributed to. Speaking to PEOPLE, Cher reflected on their relationship following their first anniversary. “No matter what happens, I love being with him,” she said. “He makes me laugh, and we have fun. What I learned is that it’s never too late… But we’ve been together a year, and if it was just a year, it would’ve been worth it. I’ve had the best time.”

December 2023: Sweet Love

Cher closed out the year with an interview on the popular Chicken Shop Date with host Amelia Dimoldenberg. Cher spoke openly about her relationship with Edwards and even gave the host some dating tips and advice. When asked if she fell for Edwards quickly, Cher said:

“No, not at all. I left to go to Switzerland and he texted me, ‘Where are you going?’ I said, ‘I’m going to Switzerland. I’m a little tired.’ And then he wrote me, ‘Well, get some rest, babyyy,’ with three Ys. And I’m like, ‘He doesn’t know me well enough to put three Ys on baby.’ I was kind of pissed off. And then he just started texting me.”

January-May 2024: Cher And AE Are Still Going Strong

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Kicking off another new year, Cher assured fans that her relationship was as strong as ever. She posted a picture of her sitting on Edwards’ lap as she gently touched his chin. The picture was captioned: “Love is love.” In March, the couple returned to Paris, reveling in the city’s fashion shows together. By the end of the month, they were back in Los Angeles, attending the 3rd annual Attorney Ben Crump EJN Awards. April brought another public appearance, as they traveled to Milan for Dolce & Gabbana’s 40th anniversary party.

Their travels continued with a stay in Monaco, and in late May, Cher and AE took a helicopter to St. Tropez. Moreover, the pair were spotted walking hand-in-hand through the seaside town on their way to lunch at Club 55. For her 78th birthday, Cher was surprised with a small party in a private jet. She was surrounded by a select few and given a cake. The “Believe” songstress was beaming with joy and happy to be sharing the day with her man.

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