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Kanye West’s Alleged Mother-In-Law “Kink” & Rape Allegations: Breaking Down Ex-Yeezy Employee’s Lawsuit

October 15, 2024 by newhiphopnews

There’s a reckoning in the music industry as alleged predators get exposed and Kanye West is the latest male celebrity to be accused of sexual assault. According to TMZ, his former executive assistant as Yeezy, Lauren Pisciotta, accused the mogul of rape, drugging her, and harassing her during her time in the role. Pisciott amended her lawsuit to include new allegations after she accused Ye of wrongful termination. These include claims that Ye laid her off after bumping her up to chief of staff position with a $4M a year salary, per TMZ. Her latest lawsuit sheds light on bombshell allegations, including lewd comments about Ye’s mother-in-law, Alexandra Censori, and engaged in inappropriate workplace conduct. Below, we’ve broken down the allegations against Ye.

Lauren Pisciotta’s Allegations Of Drugging & Assault

kanye west sued for rape and sexual assault — INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 14: Rapper Kanye West performs onstage during the “Vultures 1” playback concert during Rolling Loud 2024 at Hollywood Park Grounds on March 14, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)

Lauren Pisciotta’s lawsuit has expanded to include an accusation that Kanye West drugged her at a studio session hosted by both West and Diddy. According to Pisciotta, she attended the session with her former artist management client after receiving an invitation from West. She claims that after taking a few sips of a drink handed to her by Kanye, she began to feel disoriented. Pisciotta says she remembers almost nothing from the night, waking up the next day with feelings of shame and embarrassment.

Though Pisciotta did not name her clients in the court documents, former G.O.O.D Music artist Niykee Heaton detailed a similar story regarding a studio session hosted by West and Diddy. In a lengthy Instagram video shared earlier this year, her claims mirrored that of Pisciotta, who allegedly managed her around that time.

Pisciotta’s lawsuit focuses on Kanye West’s actions. However, she claimed Diddy attended the studio session, as well. However, Pisciotta hasn’t listed Diddy as a defendant in the case nor has Diddy’s legal responded to the claims. Diddy himself is facing unrelated criminal charges involving racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. He has denied all major allegations made against him in those cases.

Kanye Allegedly Admitted To Sexual Misconduct

kanye west attends fashion show — US rapper Kanye West (C), attends the Givenchy Spring-Summer 2023 fashion show during the Paris Womenswear Fashion Week, in Paris, on October 2, 2022. (Photo by JULIEN DE ROSA / AFP) (Photo by JULIEN DE ROSA/AFP via Getty Images)

Years after the studio session, Pisciotta alleges that Kanye West brought up the night in question, claiming they had hooked up. This revelation, she says, came as a shock. She assumed she had simply been drugged and embarrassed herself at the event. Pisciotta now believes West took advantage of her during this time.

Before these new accusations surfaced, Pisciotta had already accused Kanye West of sexual harassment. In her initial lawsuit, she claimed West sent her vulgar and explicit text messages, describing disturbing sexual desires. According to Pisciotta, West even confessed to masturbating while on the phone with her and expressed an inappropriate obsession with the penis sizes of her boyfriends. These claims formed the foundation of her original legal complaint.

Diddy Is Not The Focus Of The Lawsuit

kanye west and diddy have been accused in the lawsuit — NEW YORK, NY – AUGUST 28: Kanye West and Sean “Diddy” Combs aka Puff Daddy pose together at the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards at Madison Square Garden on August 28, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage)

Although Pisciotta’s lawsuit focuses on Kanye West’s actions, it’s worth noting that Diddy was also present at the studio session. However, Pisciotta has made it clear that she is not accusing Diddy of any wrongdoing related to the alleged drugging or sexual misconduct. Diddy’s legal team has not responded to the claims, and Diddy himself is facing unrelated criminal charges involving racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. He has denied all major allegations made against him in those cases.

Alleged Lewd Comments About His Wife’s Mother

kanye with his wife bianca censori — PARIS, FRANCE – JUNE 19: (L-R) Kanye West and Bianca Censori attend the Prototypes Menswear Spring/Summer 2025 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on June 19, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Lyvans Boolaky/Getty Images)

One of the most shocking claims in Pisciotta’s lawsuit involves Kanye West’s wife, Bianca Censori, and her mother, Alexandra Censori. According to Pisciotta, West expressed a desire to have sex with Bianca’s mother while Bianca watched. In September 2022, West allegedly sent a text to Bianca saying, “I wanna f*** your mum. Before she leaves,” referring to Alexandra’s visit to Los Angeles from Australia. Pisciotta claimed West later sent her a screenshot of this message, even asking if he should add, “I meant I want you to watch me f*** your mom.”

Bianca–on a work visa at the time–allegedly responded to West in a manner that Pisciotta claims was “required” by him in order to keep her job. The response allegedly read, “(Alexandra is) married. I’m going to f*** someone this weekend and tell you the next time you’re inside me.” Alexandra Censori has remained silent on the allegations, requesting privacy when approached by the media.

Alexandra Censori’s Response

Kanye West’s mother-in-law, Alexandra Censori, kept out out of the spotlight but recently, paps spotted her for the first time following the public revelation of these allegations. When approached by Daily Mail reporters in Melbourne, she declined to comment on the situation, asking for privacy instead. Despite the disturbing claims made by Pisciotta, Alexandra has not spoken publicly about her son-in-law’s alleged behavior.

Disturbing Workplace Conditions

kanye at milk studios — HOLLYWOOD, CA – JUNE 28: Kanye West at Milk Studios on June 28, 2016 in Hollywood, California. adidas and Kanye West announce the future of their partnership: adidas + KANYE WEST (Photo by Jonathan Leibson/Getty Images for ADIDAS)

The lawsuit paints a troubling picture of the workplace environment under Kanye West’s leadership. Not only did Pisciotta claim that West’s sexual “kinks” often centered on wanting to have intercourse with the mothers of those he was involved with but her lawsuit alleges that he frequently talked about these desires with his staff. Per The Daily Mail, Pisciotta also alleged that West used his influence at companies like Adidas and Gap to secure work visas for women he brought to the U.S. for sexual purposes. She claims these women received obscure job titles and signed non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) about their experiences.

West allegedly engaged in sexual encounters with employees and guests at the Yeezy offices, where he reportedly set up makeshift bedrooms consisting of a mattress, pillows, and a blanket in closets or unused rooms, according to the suit. Pisciotta further claims that the company instructed employees to keep these arrangements quiet, and that West’s behavior often crossed professional lines in a workplace that lacked boundaries.

The Aftermath & Legal Repercussions

Lauren Pisciotta, who worked with Kanye West from 2021 to 2022, claims Ye wrongfully terminated her from her position shortly after promoting her to chief of staff. She alleges that the company offered her $3 million in severance but never paid the amount. In response to the lawsuit, attorneys for Kanye West called the allegations “baseless,” asserting that Pisciotta had pursued her former boss “sexually to coerce employment and other material benefits.”

The post Kanye West’s Alleged Mother-In-Law “Kink” & Rape Allegations: Breaking Down Ex-Yeezy Employee’s Lawsuit appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

GloRilla “GLORIOUS” Album Review

October 14, 2024 by newhiphopnews

With a breakout hit as massive as “F.N.F.,” it would’ve been easy for GloRilla to just stick to that sound and appeal to get her bag as hip-hop’s most beloved new femcee of that year. To be fair, that’s kind of what she did in the following months, giving us single after single of some dirty Memphis bangers that she earned her fair share of hate for, along with every other woman rapper being just as hedonistic as the guys without that patriarchal benefit of the doubt. However, the Tennessee native clearly didn’t want to rush her studio debut, and now that GLORIOUS is here, we can easily see why.

On this new album, GloRilla amps up the regionality of her artistry with no need for excessive bells and whistles, makes the most out of her various flows and deliveries, and adds compelling flashes of topical focus that put the rest of her discography under a different context. Of course, it’s not all a hit, and there’s still some room for her to grow as an artist, lyricist, and performer. But Big Glo doesn’t just acknowledge this humbly on GLORIOUS. She also adds other sonic influences to emphasize and diversify her perspective in more explicit and consistent ways than many rap stars today tend to champion. Glo’s still the same person she’s always been, but pulling the veil back in this way results in more relatable and captivating affirmations on love, independence, faith, and conscientious identity that still go absurdly hard.

GLORIOUS‘ Production

Starting with the beats, the most obvious auditory arsenal within GLORIOUS is two-fold: some orchestral and gospel-inspired instrumentals on one hand, and hard-hitting Memphis trap rhythms on the other. Mash them together and you have GloRilla’s catchy and to-the-point debut, at least holistically. The “INTRO” outlines this quite well with faint organs, warm bass, homages to T.I., and sharp snares. Overall, the drama and gravitas behind both of these styles inform and reinforce each other, so even string hits on singles like “HOLLON” come off as grand musical performances despite them landing on a club-ready track. GloRilla doesn’t consistently pick the most original beats, but even mild instrumentals on records like “STEP” with BossMan Dlow contain some interesting embellishments. In this case, it’s a slinky bassline and some stankface-inducing stomps.

The most consistently impressive production element here, though, is the brass. You already knew that thanks to GloRilla’s explosive lead single, “TGIF,” but there are plenty of examples of simple but effective uses of these timbres throughout GLORIOUS. One standout song is “LET HER COOK” and its contrast with light pianos, and “I AIN’T GOING” mixes those horns with an abundance of atmosphere and a more simple trap beat to create an almost rage-like feel. Still, almost everything on this album is distinctly Memphis despite its other employed styles. A lot of that is thanks to the 25-year-old’s delivery and lingo, but the percussion also carries heavily even in more poppy cuts like “I LUV HER” with T-Pain. Some choruses don’t ring as intoxicatingly as others, but with beats as impactful and larger-than-life as these, pretty much any refrain can become an anthem.

What Does GloRilla Rap About?

As for GloRilla herself on GLORIOUS, she remains as charismatic and confident as ever throughout almost every verse here. But the most interesting elements are when she deviates from that bravado, at least in part. Throughout this album, there are two main thematic focuses: the Memphis artist’s newfound fame and massive success in the hip-hop industry and her issues with toxic relationships with other men. “STOP PLAYING” switches things up with a soft drill tune, but more importantly, it assures her self-confidence regarding her journey to success and her self-respect regarding relationships. On “DON’T DESERVE,” Glo and Muni Long explicitly speak on wanting to see a friend leave an abusive relationship, an angle that you won’t find as directly in today’s rap landscape. But songs like “GLO’S PRAYER” show more vulnerability by admitting that she can’t bring herself to fall out of love with a problematic partner.

As such, many songs on here might share similar subject matter. Yet GloRilla is almost always diving into a particular aspect between these themes in a way that makes GLORIOUS feel more cohesive, carefully structured, and thematically progressive. By the time we reach more triumphant fare, such as the Megan Thee Stallion-assisted anti-drama anthem “HOW I LOOK” or the closer “QUEEN OF MEMPHIS” with Fridayy, we have a better understanding of her desires and what the next step in this journey is for her. What’s more, is that Glo relays this through a relatively small but, nonetheless, well-delivered set of flows. She sometimes sounds menacing, often fiery, occasionally conflicted, but always sharp and focused. Even though the album can feel like she’s spinning her pen’s wheels in place sometimes, these retreads don’t take away from the overall album experience.

Big Glo Is Here To Stay

Furthermore, you will still laugh at lines like “I’m half celibate, you can’t f**k, but you can eat this p***y” and be moved by confessions like “Got me feeling like a dummy when I know I’m smarter / The only man that showed me love correctly was my father.” GloRilla balances these moods out with grace, and if you need proof of that, listen to how passionately the album’s centerpiece, “RAIN DOWN ON ME,” with Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, and Chandler Moore turned out. Speaking of guests, Latto and Sexyy Red both bring boisterous chemistry to “PROCEDURE” and “WHATCHU KNO ABOUT ME,” respectively. However, the featured artists never overshadow or outshine Glo’s vision on GLORIOUS, and she’s the one that links all its disparate elements together for a thematically well-realized experience.

Still, there are a few notes for improvement here and there, such as some generic instrumentals, non-rhymes, similar tempos and song structures, and some deja vu here and there. Fortunately, all that becomes moot by the time you finish GLORIOUS, as you have a hefty collection of grimy, bombastic, and raw trunk-knockers that don’t overstay their welcome, plus plenty of direct and fearless food for thought. With all this in mind, it’s not hard to see why GloRilla wanted to take her time with her debut album, both to mull over her own romantic struggles and to respond to the behavioral and industry-set expectations that her fame pinned onto her. It doesn’t feel forced, desperate, haphazard, or like it could’ve come from anyone else other than her. The Queen of Memphis now has her throne, and we hope that her next effort doubles down on her ideas here.

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GloRilla “GLORIOUS”: The 7 Best Beats

October 11, 2024 by newhiphopnews

2024 is the year of GloRilla. The Memphis rapper’s stock has been on the rise, thanks to a series of high-profile singles (“Yeah Glo!” and “TGIF”) and collaborations (“Wanna Be” with Megan Thee Stallion and its Cardi B-assisted remix). Her mix of self-empowerment and street bars quickly made her a fan favorite. When she made herself known in 2022 after signing with Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group, she developed a base of women and men alike, signaling a universal appeal that not every rapper in the mainstream today can say they have. In April, she released her second mixtape, Ehhthang Ehhthang, twelve tracks that show the MC staying true to her roots en route to what would become a banner year for the 25-year-old.

GloRilla’s 2024 takeover culminated with the release of her debut album, GLORIOUS. In true GloRilla fashion, GLORIOUS features a number of hard-hitting beats, in line with the sound of modern Memphis hip-hop. But, she also expands her palette with some more gospel-inspired sounds that fall out of her typical crunk and trap comfort zones. The result is a unique soundscape that often complements GloRilla and the extensive list of featured artists very well. Here are the seven best beats on GLORIOUS.

7. “RAIN DOWN ON ME” (feat. Kirk Franklin, Chandler Moore, Kierra Sheard & Maverick City Music)

GloRilla was born Gloria Hallelujah Woods. Perhaps it is unsurprising that a woman with Hallelujah as her middle name would make such a gospel-inspired track, but that is exactly what “RAIN DOWN ON ME” is. The track features gospel titan Kirk Franklin, Chandler Moore, Kierra Sheard, and Maverick City Music. It is a unique track on GLORIOUS, pulling off an effective gospel/trap mixture. The piano and choral adlibs sound like something one would hear at a Black church. It retains the spirit of GloRilla’s typical flair with an 808 pattern that gives her an actual beat to rap to.

The final minute sees the track go from a somewhat standard hip-hop song to a full-on “take us to church” moment. Franklin shifts the spotlight onto the choir, who sing over what has become a full gospel track, complete with hand clapping and an organ. The complete product is something that is not what GloRilla normally brings to the table. It is an admirable tonal shift after the line of party bangers and Trap & B that precedes it.

6. “DON’T DESERVE” (feat. Muni Long)

“DON’T DESERVE,” the seventh track on GLORIOUS, is a much softer cut. Produced by Hawky, Drumdummie, Fraxille, and Max Hummel, it is a song about valuing oneself and wanting friends to value themselves. The beat is sentimental, with a piano loop that makes it reminiscent of an early Polo G ballad–808s, piano. The bass will still sound good in the car. But, the beat’s sparseness is what makes it effective. It does not overwhelm and gives space for an impassioned performance by R&B star Muni Long, who steals the show vocally. “DON’T DESERVE” is not as high-energy of a song as “TGIF” or “HOW I LOOK.” However, it is a welcome entry on the tracklist. Its laidback beat and subdued delivery (by GloRilla’s standards) makes it a lowkey high point on GLORIOUS.

5. “HOLLON”

“HOLLON,” the album’s second track, is another one that revisits the crunk well. Horns, an ominous bell, and some more big bass make the track (produced by SkipOnDaBeat and FnZ) go. It’s another track that has a darker feel to it. If a DJ played this song at a party, it would probably be in everyone’s best interest to move out of the way.

It’s an early hit on the tracklist that sets the tone for what to expect across the rest of GloRilla’s debut album: a series of loud, banging beats, and for Glo’s confident flow to match the energy of those loud, banging, beats. “HOLLON” is another high point on the production side of the album. It’s one that longtime fans of GloRilla will surely gravitate toward, as it sounds like something that would have been right at home on both Ehhthang Ehhthang and the preceding Anyway, Life’s Great… mixtapes.

4. “LET HER COOK”

“LET HER COOK” is the thirteenth track on GLORIOUS, and it is an appropriately named one. Produced by London Jae, Pooh Beatz, Squat, and Coupe, this track is another banger. The horn returns, and the particular loop on this track has a similar pattern to Pharoahe Monch’s “Simon Says,” though it is not quite as in-your-face as that track is. There is a dinging sound deep in the mix that emphasizes her bars like the “ayy” adlib does on “TGIF.” Of course, the bass is once again at the top of mind. It feels like Glo’s intention on every song is to create a track that’ll bump regardless of where it’s being played. Like so many of the production choices on GLORIOUS, this is another great one. Even towards the end of the album, GloRilla wants to keep the energy high, something that she excels at doing.

3. “TGIF”

“It’s 7 P.M. Friday, it’s 95 degrees / I ain’t got no n***a, and no n***a ain’t got me” has become an oft-repeated opening line for many this year. Those bars represent a level of freedom that comes with being out of a relationship. They also would not hit as hard if they were said over any other beat. “TGIF” remains a 2024 highlight for Glo.

Produced by Zenjikozen, Brophy, and Jess Jackson, “TGIF” is a downtempo track with a persistent horn and thumping bass, as well as a repeated “ayy” adlib that punctuates many of the bars on the song. No one could have predicted “TGIF” was going to dominate the rap game in 2024 as much as it has. It is one of the only hip-hop songs to consistently be in the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 since its June release. That is a particularly impressive feat as the charts have favored pop and country the most this year. It’s easy to see why, as like much of GLORIOUS, “TGIF” is radio and party-ready. It is a 2024 banger and even on an album full of new material, a standout, anthemic track.

2. “STEP” (feat. Bossman Dlow)

“STEP,” the album’s twelfth track features another rising star, Tallahassee rapper and recent XXL Freshman, Bossman Dlow. The bass-heavy beat sounds like GloRilla taking a trip into Dlow’s world. The track has a type of bounce that can really only be found on a Florida rapper’s song. In that regard, it takes Glo a bit out of her comfort zone. But in the nascent years of her career, she has shown the ability to flow over just about anything you ask her to.

Her and Dlow sound at home over the bass, piano, and bell (which underscores the entire track). It is another track that, like “HOW I LOOK,” and like much of the tracklist, is immediately ready to make its way into DJ sets at most parties. The beat doubles as an opportunity for both Glo and Dlow to showcase their talents, and those who may have been previously unfamiliar with Dlow can get a good feel for exactly what he brings to his own music on “STEP.”

1. “HOW I LOOK” (feat. Megan Thee Stallion)

“HOW I LOOK” is the tenth track on GLORIOUS and the latest collaboration between GloRilla and Megan Thee Stallion. It is also the hardest song on the album. The production, handled by Yo Gotti (who has thirteen credits across the album’s fifteen tracks), Go Grizzly, B100, and London Jae, is the type of trunk-rattling sound fans have come to expect from those in the Memphis scene. It’s dark but still energetic, with some heavy bass and an eerie whistling sound buried in the mix. It feels like something that Duke Deuce, a Memphis contemporary, would rap over, and it is the most that Glo dips into the Memphis crunk sound on the album.

“HOW I LOOK” has a party-ready feel, thanks in part to the self-assured bars put forth by the two artists on the song, but also because the beat is one that could send even the most reserved person to the dance floor. It’s the standout moment on Glo’s debut and more than ready to be the next big single from this part of her career.

[Via]

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FBG Duck’s Mother Sues Lil Durk & OTF: Breaking Down The Lawsuit

October 11, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The mother of slain rapper FBG Duck, real name Carlton Weekly, has filed a lawsuit implicating some of the biggest names in Chicago’s drill rap scene, including Lil Durk and the late King Von. According to Chicago Sun-Times, the lawsuit accuses the aforementioned artists of profiting off of her son’s tragic murder in 2020, when the culprits shot and killed him in broad daylight. As such, she claims that they’ve turned tragic gang-related killings into commercial success, one that has earned them accolades and fame. Here’s what we know so far.

The Gold Coast Killing That Shook Chicago

On August 4, 2020, FBG Duck tragically died following a shooting in broad daylight in Chicago’s upscale Gold Coast neighborhood. Officials said gunmen ambushed Duck, alleged to be a prominent member of the Gangster Disciples faction Tookaville, while he shopped for a gift for his son outside Dolce & Gabbana. His girlfriend, Cashae Williams, and another man, Davon Brinson, also faced injuries in the attack. Police claim the murder was the culmination of a bitter feud between Duck’s Tookaville crew and the O Block faction of the Black Disciples.

Diss tracks and street beefs fueled the gang rivalry as FBG Duck and King Von exchanged insults in their music. King Von allegedly placed a $100K bounty on Duck’s head, which further escalated tensions.

The Lawsuit: Monetizing Murder

Los Angeles, CA – February 04: Winner Lil Durk, with trophy, for “All My Life,” at the 66th Grammy Awards held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA, Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

FBG Duck’s mother, Lasheena Weekly, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit targeting Lil Durk, King Von’s estate, and their record label, Only The Family (OTF). According to the lawsuit, these entities “monetized the killing of FBG Duck” by capitalizing on the gang rivalry in their music and public personas. The suit argues that OTF, a label associated with violent and criminal activity, grew its fame and financial success by glorifying real-world gang violence, with Duck’s murder being a key moment in their rise.

The lawsuit also names major record labels like Sony, accusing them of knowingly promoting and distributing violent content that contributed to FBG Duck’s killing. It alleges that Durk and Von, both identified as high-ranking members of the Black Disciples, built their careers and public images around their gang affiliations, which in turn helped drive their record sales and streaming numbers.

OTF: A Criminal Enterprise?

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA – APRIL 07: Lil Durk performs during J. Cole’s headlining set at the 2024 Dreamville Music Festival at Dorothea Dix Park on April 07, 2024 (Photo by Astrida Valigorsky/WireImage)

The claim that OTF is a criminal enterprise outside of its function as a record label is at the heart of the lawsuit. Weekly’s attorneys argue that OTF operates as a front for gang-related activity, using its music and artists to legitimize and profit from violence. They point to Durk and Von’s frequent diss tracks aimed at FBG Duck as evidence of this, citing the 2020 track “Took Her To the O,” in which Von references killing a rival named “Duck.”

The lawsuit alleges that this kind of reality rap, where artists blur the lines between fictional lyrics and real-life events, drives engagement through controversy and violence. The suit claims that the labels, including Sony, saw financial opportunity in promoting artists with criminal backgrounds, essentially turning their music into a dangerous product for public consumption.

The Role Of Record Labels & Corporate Responsibility

The lawsuit takes aim at not only the rappers but also the corporate entities behind them. Per Sun-Times, Weekly’s attorneys argue that companies like Sony bear responsibility for promoting and distributing violent content that glorifies gang life. By signing artists like Durk and Von, and investing in their controversial personas, these labels allegedly played a direct role in fostering the violence that led to FBG Duck’s murder.

“Without a doubt, Lil Durk, OTF, King Von, O Block — a criminal organization — could never have achieved the international fame and become so emboldened to kill a rival musician without the promotion, distribution and financial support provided to them by these record companies,” Attorney Roosevelt Allen III, representing Weekly, said. “Our laws do not allow a company to put out a dangerous, defective product that could harm our community.”

Legal Implications & Responses

At the time of writing, Lil Durk and the record labels involved have not publicly commented on the lawsuit. Prosecutors built the case on evidence presented during the O Block trial, which saw six members and associates of the Black Disciples convicted in FBG Duck’s slaying earlier this year. Von died a few months after Duck but according to the Sun-Times, prosecutors identified him as a gang leader.

The lawsuit also raises questions about the role of security and law enforcement on the day of the murder. According to the suit, Dolce & Gabbana failed to provide adequate security outside their Gold Coast location. It also claims Chicago police officers did not respond quickly enough after Duck was shot. Weekly claims her son bled for 17 minutes before emergency medical crews arrived.

A Tragic Rivalry Turned Into Profits

The longstanding feud between O Block and Tookaville had been immortalized in a series of diss tracks, with both FBG Duck and King Von taking aim at each other. Von, who was killed in Atlanta in late 2020, had reportedly placed a $100,000 bounty on Duck’s head, adding fuel to the violent conflict. Following Duck’s death, Von’s career skyrocketed, with his music videos and diss tracks garnering millions of views, further amplifying the rivalry for public consumption.

In essence, the lawsuit argues that Duck’s murder wasn’t just a tragic street feud but a key element of the branding strategy that propelled OTF and its artists to international fame. As Weekly and her legal team move forward with the case, it remains to be seen how the court will handle the complex intersections of gang violence, corporate responsibility, and free expression in rap music.

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Every Rap & R&B Star That Appeared In The “Power” Universe

October 9, 2024 by newhiphopnews

There are very few television shows that have captured the hearts of hip-hop heads like Power. The 50 Cent-led production has become more of a universe at this point with three spin-offs that have continued to keep fans at the edge of their seats. Most recently, the Power universe brought an end to Power Book II: Ghost, which included a cameo from Lil Durk, who made his acting debut. However, he’s far from the last musical artist to appear on the show. Throughout the original series and its spin-off, 50 Cent and Courtney Kemp have been selective with the star cameos from hip-hop’s elite. Of course, we’ve seen lyrical heavyweights like Joey Bada$$ and Method Man grace the screen in prominent roles, along with R&B icons like Mary J. Blige and Jeremih. Below, we’ve done a round-up of every hip-hop and R&B star to appear in the Power universe.

Read More: All 4 “Power” Series, Ranked

50 Cent – Kanan Stark (Power, Power Book III: Raising Kanan)

Without 50 Cent, Power would not be as successful as it is. As a showrunner, he’s played a significant role alongside Courtney Kemp in bringing this story to life. However, he also played one of the best roles of his acting career as Kanan Stark. He served as Ghost’s and Tommy’s former mentor-turned-rival in the original Power series. However, his story was explored even further in the spin-off series, Power Book III: Raising Kanan, though Fif primarily appeared in flashbacks.

Joey Bada$$ – Kadeem “Unique” Mathis (Power Book III: Raising Kanan)

joey badass power — NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JULY 15: Joey Bada$$ attends the “Power Book III: Raising Kanan” New York premiere at the Hammerstein Ballroom on July 15, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by John Lamparski/FilmMagic)

A revered MC in his own right, Bada$$ delved into acting in the years that led to his role in Power Book III: Raising Kanan. In the show, he took on the role of Unique, who initially served as the primary antagonist and later, became an anti-hero. He was a streetwise kingpin who inherited a drug empire from his incarcerated brother. The role came for Bada$$ after he already won an Oscar for Two Distant Strangers and appeared as Rebel/Inspectah Deck in Wu Tang: An American Saga.

Method Man – Davis MacLean (Power Book II: Ghost)

method man power — ATLANTA, GEORGIA – MAY 12: Method Man performs onstage during the Strength of a Woman’s MJB “Celebrating Hip Hop 50” Concert in Partnership with Mary J. Blige, Pepsi, and Live Nation Urban at State Farm Arena on May 12, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Strength Of A Woman Festival & Summit)

Meth took on the role of the suave criminal defense attorney Davis MacLean. In the first two seasons of the spinoff, he serves as Tariq St. Patrick’s defense attorney while also aiding Tasha before forming a professional bond with Cooper Saxe. Though Meth has undoubtedly built a strong resumé as an actor, his appearance as MacLean will undoubtedly serve as one of the most notable roles in his career.

Mary J Blige – Monet Stewart Tejada (Power Book II: Ghost)

power mary j blige — ATLANTA, GEORGIA – MAY 14: Mary J Blige as Special Guest Judge for Strength of a Woman’s “Purpose Ball: Bridging the Gap” in Partnership with Mary J. Blige, Pepsi, and Live Nation Urban at The Bank on May 14, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Derek White/Getty Images for Strength Of A Woman Festival & Summit)

In the first spin-off in the Power universe, Mary J. Blige takes on the role of Monet Steward Tejada–the second-in-command in the Tejada cartel. As Lorenzo Tejada’s husband, she serves as the queenpin of the organization, recruiting her three children, Dru, Cane, and Diana, to keep the family business afloat. Mary J. Blige’s portrayal has earned her great acclaim on screen and two NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.

Kendrick Lamar – Laces (Power)

power kendrick lamar laces — INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 13: Kendrick Lamar performs in the Pepsi Halftime Show during the NFL Super Bowl LVI football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on February 13, 2022 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

Perhaps, one of the most surprising rapper cameos in a television series, Kendrick Lamar stepped onto the TV screen as Laces, a neighborhood “crackhead” that helps Kanan track down a few henchmen. It was truly a shocking and splendid display of his acting chops, which was a selling point for Courtney Kemp. In fact, she admitted to rejecting several rappers who hoped to appear on Power.

“He wanted to play something crazy,” Kemp told EW. “You would never put in Kendrick as a gangster anyway; he’s not really that guy. He wanted to come in and play a part and really act. Most people don’t really wanna act. They wanna, like, ‘Yeah, I wanna be in that s—. I wanna have a gun, I wanna…’ and they don’t wanna act. Kendrick wanted the challenge. He wanted the next level of his artistry and his creativity to be challenged. He really wanted us to give him something.”

Redman – Theo Rollins (Power Book II: Ghost)

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 11: Redman attends DJ Cassidy’s Pass The Mic Live! at Prudential Center on May 11, 2024 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Shareif Ziyadat/Getty Images)

Redman appeared as Theo Rollins, MacLean’s incarcerated brother. It was an interesting dynamic, considering it marked one of the first times since Method & Red that the Blackout! Collaborators appeared together on TV. Unfortunately, Redman’s appearance on the show lasted one season. Method Man later revealed they had to recast Rollins’ role because Redman refused to get the COVID-19 jab.

Freddie Gibbs – Cousin Buddy (Power Book IV: Force)

WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 23: Freddie Gibbs attends the Spotify and Hulu “RapCaviar Presents” Premiere Celebration at Ysabel on March 23, 2023 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kayla Oaddams/Getty Images)

Just as Freddie Gibbs began getting his feet wet in the acting world with films like Down With The King and a supporting role in Peacock’s Bust Down, he returned as Cousin Buddy in Power Book IV: Force. In the show, he portrayed the cousin of Marshall Cranon, a cross-eyed kingpin in Gary, IN who links up with Jenard Sampson to further expand his operation.

Jeremih – Elijah Linden (Power Book IV: Force)

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 28: Jeremih attends “Power Book IV Force” Dinner at on January 28, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

A high-ranking member of the CBI organization, Elijah Linden serves as a street-smart ally to the Sampson brothers who eventually meet his demise. Jeremih hasn’t necessarily built a strong filmography over his career but it was still an impressive outting. No doubt that his long-standing relationship with 50 Cent played a major role.

MC Lyte – Jelani Otombe (Power)

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 07: MC Lyte visits SiriusXM Studios on August 07, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images)

The legendary MC delivered an impeccable but brief performance in the season 5 finale of Power as Jelani Otombe.

Rotimi – Andre Coleman (Power)

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 19: Actor Rotimi visits BuzzFeed’s “AM To DM” on August 19, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)

Serving as part of the main cast from the second season onward, Rotimi portrayed Andre “Dre” Coleman. Though once a close affiliate to Ghost and Kanan, he eventually begins to try and make a mark for himself. However, his efforts ultimately lead to his own death.

LeToya Luckett – Kenya Pierce (Power Book III: Raising Kanan)

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 13: LeToya Luckett attends the 2022 Soul Train Awards presented by BET at the Orleans Arena on November 13, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)

LeToya Luckett plays Kenya Pierce in Power Book III: Raising Kanan. Kenya is introduced as the long-lost mother of Jukebox (portrayed by Hailey Kilgore), who abandoned her as a child. After years away, Kenya re-enters her daughter’s life, attempting to form a relationship with her. The former Destiny Child star crushed her role as Kenya.

Lil Durk – Bronze (Power Book II: Ghost)

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Lil Durk attends PrettyLittleThing: Teyana Taylor Collection II New York Fashion Week on September 09, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Gonzalo Marroquin/Getty Images for PrettyLittleThing )

In his acting debut, Lil Durk took on the role of Bronze who portrays a cousin of the Tejada family. It’s a full circle moment for Durk, who previously contributed to the “Power Powder Respect” theme song alongside 50 Cent and Jeremih. Durk didn’t necessarily receive a standing ovation for his efforts. However, he deserves his flowers for proving that drill has no limits.

LightSkinKeisha – Brushaundria Carmichael (Power Book II: Ghost)

LightSkinKeisha at the season 4 premiere of “Power Book II: Ghost” held at The Hammerstein Ballroom on June 6, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by John Nacion/Variety via Getty Images)

Expanding her filmography further, LightSkinKeisha takes on the role of Brushaundria Carmichael, a classmate of Tariq.

Yung Bleu – Stokely (Power Book II: Ghost)

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY – SEPTEMBER 12: Yung Bleu attends the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards at the Prudential Center on September 12, 2023 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/FilmMagic)

The Mobile, AL star took on a small role in the latest season of Power Book II: Ghost.

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Jaguar Wright’s Disturbing Allegations Against Diddy: Freak-Offs, Sex Tapes, & More

October 8, 2024 by newhiphopnews

As Sean “Diddy” Combs’ racketeering and sex trafficking case continues to stun the entertainment industry, it has also given Jaguar Wright a new spotlight. The veteran singer has been a whistleblower—of sorts—for those who lean into audacious and unsubstantiated rumors. It isn’t difficult to find an interview of Wright poised on a couch, chatting about the alleged ills she’s witnessed throughout her career—or, at the very least, things she’s learned through private investigators or the grapevine. Further, there isn’t a name that’s safe from Wright’s stories that include tales of sex abuse, trafficking, drug use, violence, and intimidation. Her allegations take aim at some of the most influential players in the game, and often, Wright expounds on Diddy’s Bad Boy empire.

Some have questioned why Wright hasn’t been sued over her allegations. Others don’t believe that she has as much intimate knowledge of her peers as she presents. Still, enough people have tuned in, including Piers Morgan, who recently invited the singer to his show. While there, not only did she once again mention Puff, but she also included Shawn Carter, better known as Jay-Z. Wright has accused Hov of shady and violent dealings, and Diddy’s arrest has only amplified her exposure to the masses.

Jaguar Wright Says She Has Been To Diddy’s Freak-Off Parties

According to Wright, she hasn’t just heard about what goes on at Diddy’s rumored “freak-off” parties—she’s attended them herself. During her chat with Morgan, Wright called the music mogul “one of the most dangerous people” she’s “ever met.” She also referred to Combs as “the devil,” claiming he has been wreaking havoc on the industry “for 30 years.” Wright also alleged rituals would take place, people were drugged, and some sex workers who attended the events wore secret cameras. Further, Wright explosively claimed, “I have my own tapes. I see what they do… Putting girls into suitcases. Dumping them in alleyways. It’s horrifying.”

“We got to stop making Diddys,” Wright added. “And if we’re going to do that, then we got to go back. We got to go back to even further: the mentors of these people. Because Diddy was taught how to do what he does systematically, and Clive Davis has been his greatest teacher.”

Alleges Nicki Minaj Has A Video Of Meek Mill & Diddy

After a viral audio clip circulated online, Meek Mill’s name was linked to gossip about Diddy’s alleged nefarious deeds. The sound was of two people, alleged to be men, having a sexual encounter. In an interview with RealLyfe Productions, an outlet that Wright regularly visits, the singer touched on the controversy. Wright alleged that it was Nicki Minaj who leaked the audio because the femcee supposedly had the actual video footage.

“He’s a f*cking fruit loop, he Diddy-fied. He’s a deep-fried f*ggot, period,” said Wright. “F*ck Meek, real rap. Yeah, that was f*cking him. F*cking Nicki put that sh*t out to hear. Goddamn Nicki recorded that at the freak-off in Calabasas. She been waiting to drop that sh*t on Meek.” Wright accused Minaj of hiding that it was Diddy on the tape; however, Meek refuted the allegations. He purported that he was being targeted because of his success and influence.

My voice so powerful as a black man from the ghetto worldwide they want it gone! Ima real king straight out the trenches under control of no human… they learned how to damage “can’t stop us” of brands from bots and campaigns like politicians! pic.twitter.com/pMwRuqPoWY

— MeekMill (@MeekMill) September 18, 2024

Accused Diddy Of Being Responsible For Kim Porter’s Death

Although Wright isn’t the only person who has perpetuated this rumor about Diddy and his late ex, Kim Porter, she has certainly added fuel to the fire. Conspiracy theories have surrounded Combs after several of his friends and acquaintances passed away. In a differing interview with RealLyfe Productions, Wright brought up Puff’s pre-Bad Boy career at Uptown Records. She said the label “started with five people: Andre Harrell, Al B. Sure, Heavy D, and Puffy [Diddy].” Wright added, “Kim was the longest-working employee. She was there from the very beginning; she was Andre’s personal assistant. Kim is dead, Heavy D is dead, Andre Harrell is dead, the only two left are Puffy and Al.” Then, she referenced Al B. Sure’s coma health scare. “Al almost died. Isn’t that interesting?”

“They were all writing tell-all books,” Wright continued. “Has Puffy ever been in a coma? Has anything happened to him? He must be the luckiest motherf*cker because it seems like everybody that worked at Uptown Records from the very beginning are gone. Just him.” Although Porter’s “tell-all” was recently released, the author admitted it was a work of fiction.

Said Diddy Had An Encounter With Christopher Williams

While many people that Jaguar Wright often mentions don’t come forward with a rebuttal, Christopher Williams decided to call her out after learning that his name was tied to her rumors. Wright would allege that Williams, who was a prominent singer in the 1980s and ’90s, had an oral sexual encounter with Diddy. Her quotes caught widespread attention, and Williams, obviously, wasn’t too thrilled about his name being entangled in Wright’s interview.

During his chat on Willie D Live with the Geto Boys icon, Williams categorically denied Wright’s claims. “Anybody that knows me knows that is ridiculous,” said the singer. “One person in the world alleges that I gave Puffy fellatio to get a record deal in like ‘92. I came out [singing] in ‘89, I had a record deal in ‘88.” Williams added, “If I were gay, I would be openly gay, so again, that wasn’t even the emphasis of it; it was the other stuff that was said around it.” Additionally, “Now she’s going on and on and on like she’s sure. But I’m like, ‘Bro, she’s hurting.’ I’m praying for her because we have to make a different stand and a different choice at this time. If I’m really solid, how can what she says affect me?”

Wright Claims Diddy Tapes Include Obama, Jennifer Lopez, Beyoncé & More

As stated earlier, there isn’t a famous person who can hide from Wright’s accusations. In one of her interviews, she listed several famous figures as not only co-signing Diddy’s alleged abuses but as participants who have purported sex tapes with Combs or from one of his “freak-off” parties. “I believe that Barack Obama has a tape,” she alleged. When mentioning Puff’s ex-girlfriend, Wright added, “I know that Jennifer Lopez has multiple tapes.”

Then she claimed that there was a visual of Beyoncé, in addition to saying, “I definitely know, they probably recycled some old Stevie J and Eve stuff. I know Drake got a tape, I know Rihanna got a tape, I know Chris Brown is on one of them tapes. I know Trey Songz has been, like, a supporting actor in many freak-off films. Definitely Usher.” Yet, Wright alleges that the public would be “shocked” at just how many politicians and “royals” were also involved.

“I’m still trying to figure out when Harry and Meghan [Markle] are going to be honest about their freak-off tape,” Wright continued. “I don’t think anybody wants to talk about that.” Her latest interview with Piers Morgan is just the tip of the iceberg of rumors, gossip, and allegations she has made against Combs and several other industry professionals. Meanwhile, Combs remains behind bars, awaiting trial after his bond was denied. Reports of at least 120 accusers against Combs have been shared, and the public awaits on pins and needles for information about which of their favorite artists may have been named in court documents. As for Wright, despite being heavily criticized for her comments and accusations, she remains unmoved.

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Hip-Hop Pioneers Take Center Stage: Inside The 2024 Hip-Hop Grandmaster Awards

October 7, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The glitz and glam of Las Vegas met hip-hop’s golden era on October 5th at the ARIA Resort & Casino for the second annual Hip-Hop Grandmaster Awards. This was a night when legends finally got their flowers. Cultural icons who have paved the way but often go underappreciated for their impact were honored. Hosted by Terry Crews, the event celebrated the pioneers who helped build the genre’s foundation. The night culminated in an upscale evening that celebrated their artistry and lasting cultural contributions.

As attendees arrived, they were met with the energy that only a city like Las Vegas can provide. HotNewHipHop was in attendance to capture all of the moments. Many were dressed to the nines in glamorous, upscale attire. Glasses of champagne welcomed guests in the pre-reception area which also hosted a special exhibit that took attendees on a walk through hip-hop’s storied past. The room was lined with artifacts, such as an original 1988 issue of Word Up! magazine, cassette tapes of Nas’ iconic Illmatic, handwritten lyrics from “The World Is Yours,” and old-school party flyers featuring people such as Grandmaster Caz and DJ Jazzy Jeff. These rare pieces of hip-hop history transported the guests back in time, reminding everyone of the movement’s origins.

Hip-Hop Artifacts Were Presented During The Pre-Reception

Hip-Hop Grandmaster Awards — Credit Jerry Metellus

After about an hour of mingling and deep diving into hip-hop’s archives, guests were guided into a luxurious ballroom where they were seated at elegantly organized tables. Moreover, this set the stage for the night’s main event. The formal proceedings began with an introduction from tech mogul and hip-hop advocate Ben Horowitz, and his wife Felicia Horowitz. Both are co-founders of the Paid in Full Foundation, which hosts this annual gala. The opening remarks set a reflective and celebratory tone. “I am blown away by all of this beauty that I see in this room,” Felicia Horowitz said.

The evening went on and guests were served dinner and treated to opening performances from Rakim, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Doug E. Fresh, as well as Samara Cyn. Then, discussions quickly turned into a living history lesson, as icons Fab 5 Freddy, Grandmaster Caz, and Kool Moe Dee took the stage for an interview-style conversation. The trio shared their reflections on hip-hop’s early days, their personal journeys, and how they’ve navigated the evolution of the genre.

Fireside Chat Hosted By Fab 5 Freddy With Kool Moe Dee And Grandmaster Caz

Fab 5 Freddy, Kool Moe Dee, Grandmaster Kaz — Credit: Jerry Metellus

Specifically, the discussion veered towards the climate of modern-day battle rap culture. In reference to the Drake and Kendrick Lamar beef, Grandmaster Caz shared his thoughts and expressed how he feels battle rap is more personal than it used to be. “Drake he’s the biggest person out, he’s got a target on his back cause he’s successful,” Caz said. “A battle rap back in the day wasn’t like, me talking about you, your mother, this and that. It was you get on, do your thing … I get on, do my thing. And the crowd decides which one did the better thing.”

“Today, battling is more personal,” he continued. ”’You ain’t s–t, you ain’t this or that.’ We didn’t have to say what you ain’t. We just said what we are. And what we are is more powerful and speaks for itself.”

Moreover, Terry Crews brought his signature humor and energy to the event, keeping the crowd engaged with his lively hosting throughout the night. The crowd buzzed as the honorees of the night were announced: Grandmaster Caz, Roxanne Shante, and Kool Moe Dee—true legends who have each left impactful marks on the genre. Each of them received their awards and gave speeches. The atmosphere brimmed with respect and admiration for their tireless work in shaping hip-hop. The award, which includes a financial stipend, is aimed at empowering these pioneers to further their creative endeavors, ensuring that their legacies not only endure but continue to grow.

DJ Jazzy Jeff Performed A DJ Set At The Hip-Hop Grandmaster Awards

In a night filled with highlights, DJ Jazzy Jeff’s special performance was a standout moment. He treated the crowd to a DJ set, spinning classic tracks and igniting memories of block parties and basement jams. But the night didn’t end there. What was initially planned as a celebratory performance evolved into something even more special when Kool Moe Dee and Roxanne Shante joined in on an impromptu freestyle session. The spontaneity of the performance was a reminder of hip-hop’s live roots.

Roxanne Shante delivered a particularly empowering speech that left the crowd giving her a standing ovation. “The reason I wasn’t every place else, with everyone else, was because I was supposed to be here tonight getting paid in full,” Shante said during her acceptance speech.

Honorees Kool Moe Dee, Roxanne Shante, And Grandmaster Caz

Kool Moe Dee, Roxanne Shante, Grandmaster Kaz — Credit: Jerry Metellus

The Paid in Full Foundation’s mission to empower and honor hip-hop’s trailblazers came to life through the evening’s festivities. It was clear that this event was about more than just the accolades. Moreover, it was a call to action to acknowledge the past while investing in the future.

Alongside Benjamin Horowitz and his fellow board members, including Felicia Horowitz, Stephen J. Stoute, and Quincy Jones III, the Hip-Hop Grandmaster Awards were a testament to hip-hop’s enduring influence and the necessity of giving these pioneers their long-overdue recognition. With performances from Doug E. Fresh, appearances by Nas and Fab 5 Freddy, and an audience packed with visionaries, the evening was a reminder that hip-hop’s legacy is alive and thriving.

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Best Rap Songs & Albums Of September 2024

October 3, 2024 by newhiphopnews

September is now over and we have officially transitioned into the Fall, which means now is a great time to look at the best rap songs and albums of the last 31 days. Overall, 2024 has been a great year for hip-hop and these last three months look extremely promising. Legendary artists dropped music in September, and we also had some fan favorites come through to deliver singles that will definitely last into next year. So without further ado, here are our favorite songs and albums of September 2024

LL Cool J – The Force

The Alchemist – The Genuine Articulate

Future – Mixtape Pluto

The Weeknd – “Dancing In The Flames”

Playboi Carti – “All Red”

GloRilla – “Hollon”

Flo Milli – “Wet Dreams”

ASAP Rocky ft. J. Cole – “Ruby Rosary”

Let us know which albums and songs were your favorites over the past year, in the comments section down below. Stay tuned to HNHH for more best rap songs and albums lists.

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Moneybagg Yo Talks Obama Co-Sign, “Speak Now Or,” Denzel Washington & More

September 27, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The Moneybagg Yo we know now isn’t the same one we met on projects like All Gas No Breaks or the Federal series. Before he penned a deal with CMG, he was already a household name among hustlers and trappers. In the past three and a half years alone, he’s reaped the benefits from his relentless hustle of high-quality mixtapes. Bagg has nabbed a #1 album on the Billboard 200 and secured several RIAA certifications, many of which have been the result of the grip he has every summer. His latest album, Speak Now, produced the Morgan Wallen-assisted country-rap banger, “Whiskey Whiskey,” which recently made it to Obama’s Summer Playlist 2024.

“I was like, ‘Damn, Barack.’ Like, he’s listening? That was a good feeling, but it was a shocking one,” Moneybagg Yo tells HotNewHipHop over Zoom. “You don’t think when you’re putting these songs together and you putting this stuff out that it’s going to reach and do what it do.”

However, Moneybagg Yo’s relentless hustle throughout his career has positioned him in such a way as to land on Obama’s playlist and have a sit-down with Denzel Washington. Today, he releases the deluxe edition of his latest album titled, Speak Now Or. It’s the bridge between the June album and his forthcoming follow-up, Forever Hold Your Peace, which he said will be out before the year’s end. He explains that the key to his prolific output relates back to his conversation with Denzel Washington who told him, “With me, you gotta know how to be Shakespeare, and you gotta know how to be the man in Training Day. You gotta know how to do both of them. That’s what made me different.”

“Every project should just be viewed and looked at like a movie,” Moneybagg Yo explains. “Like, all right, what can we expect from him in this movie? Like, the actor good. We know he plays good roles, and he do his thing when the camera’s on. But, what is this about that’s different from last time? Like, Malcolm X and Training Day are two different things, but it’s the same great actor, you know what I’m saying? So basically, that’s how I’m taking the approach with just Speak Now, Speak Now Or, and Forever Hold Your Peace. It’s just like you get a different movie every time.”

We recently caught up with Moneybagg yo to discuss his latest project, his immeasurable influence, and working alongside Morgan Wallen.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – AUGUST 4: Rapper Moneybagg Yo performs during MoneyBagg Yo Larger Than Life Tour at State Farm Arena on August 4, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Prince Williams/WireImage)

HotNewHipHop: The last time, we spoke was around the time “Hard For The Next” came out and you released A Gangsta’s Pain shortly after. You’ve had a productive few years since then. What’s been the biggest difference in your life between that album coming out and now?

Moneybagg Yo: When I dropped A Gangsta’s Pain, I set the standard so high, you got to always be able to fill those shoes up when people expect you to fill them shoes over and over again. It’s just really me vs. me. I’m in a me vs. me type of situation. I’m battling me. So, that’s what I’m doing, just trying to be better than my last.

How’d you feel about the reception of Speak Now, especially after having the summer pass and still dominating?

It’s cool, you know? I feel like I could do better, you know what I’m saying? But I feel like, it’s just a different movie of me. It’s just a different thing. Like, A Gangsta’s Pain was one thing, Hard To Love was a moment. and then, Speak Now. Even with these eight, or nine songs that I’m about to add to the deluxe, this is even different. It really could have probably been its own tape but it makes more sense to attach it to Speak Now, you know what I’m saying? Then, even the next project, Forever Hold Your Peace. The next body of work, it’s a whole other Moneybagg. You don’t get the same thing every time. That’s how you get bored.

On a creative level, what’s been fulfilling you creatively? What’s been impressing you when you step out of the booth?

The Forever Hold Your Peace project, I’m impressed with that. Like, how it’s coming out, how everybody is like hearing it, listening to it. They taking a liking to it, and just really happy for me and excited for the body of work. That’s a good thing.

I think I heard you say that it’s going to be more melodic. Is that accurate?

Yeah, it’s just a whole melodic bag. You know, you probably heard a lot–well, I know you heard a lot of melodic songs from me. Songs like “Wockesha,” “Scorpio”–that type of vibe. A lot of just different ways that you can think that I probably came like that, but that’s the tone.

It’s a sequel to Speak Now, right?

Yeah, it’s just like a sequel. Everything ties in. Like. this right here that I’m going to drop is Speak Now Or. Like, the deluxe is like Or, you know what I’m saying? It’s like Or then Forever Hold Your Peace. We’ll drop that in another couple of weeks, a couple of months or however it might go. Whenever it’s ready, and then, that’s that. And that’s the whole attachment.

How far along are you with Forever Hold Your Peace?

Probably like 75-80% done.

I imagine we’ll probably get a single from this before the end of the year or sometime in the next few months.

Yeah, you’ll get the whole thing before that.

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – JULY 10: Moneybagg Yo performs during the Wireless Festival at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) on July 10, 2022 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Katja Ogrin/Redferns)

I was reading your interview with Billboard a few months ago where you were discussing when you met Denzel. You recalled him telling you, “With me, you gotta know how to be Shakespeare, and you gotta know how to be the man in Training Day. You gotta know how to do both of them. That’s what made me different.” I want to know, how do you think this quote applies to your approach to music?

I feel like I took that like, basically what I was telling you. You have to be like, just a different character every time. Every project should just be viewed and looked at like a movie. It should just be really looked at like a movie. Like, all right, what can we expect from him in this movie? Like, the actor good. We know he plays good roles, and he do his thing when the camera’s on. But, what is this about that’s different from last time? Like, Malcolm X and Training Day are two different things, but it’s the same great actor, you know what I’m saying? So basically, that’s how I’m taking the approach with just Speak Now, Speak Now Or, and Forever Hold Your Peace. It’s just like you get a different movie every time.

Some people were feeling like Speak Now was a bit commercial or something. So Speak Now Or, they get this, I guarantee you, they ain’t gonna say that. This is strictly street records, energy, street records. And then you got Forever Hold Your Peace, it’s just melodic. It’s more of a vibe. It’s the “woo the ladies” in and talk like it’s good with that.

In that same interview, you mentioned how you don’t feel like you have much to prove because you’ve accomplished so much. Are you able to identify your influence in music and in culture at large these days?

Yep. The largest. Really, basically, to where it’s the largest. I feel like everytime I do something, people gravitate and bite onto it. Like, I’m not a person that like is meant to follow. I’m meant to lead. Every time I do something where I take the lead or take the initiative, I set the trend like that. Once I do it, everybody else does it or they try to act like they ain’t do it and then, do it [laughs]. Or try to like, see me halfway doing it and try to finesse it all the way to the T. Now, when I‘m coming me down there, I almost look like–once I finish what I’m doing, it damn-near look like they seen it before because he did it.

That’s another thing too, like I don’t like posting everything before it’s done. I like posting the finished product. Then I show you the behind-the-scenes of it, how I did it, instead of the other way around. Like, showing you the behind-the-scenes first, and then “this coming” and then I put it out. Because when you do that, you just opening up doors for people to be like, “Oh, he’s doing it. Let me do this. But I’m gonna put a twist on it. I’m gonna do it like this, this new wave. This gotta be it.”

They say imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Do you feel like people are giving you your flowers when they’re biting your style?

No, not really. They don’t pay homage all the time. They need to.

You’ve been an advocate for a lot of the women in the South who are crushing it in rap right now, even with your collabs with GloRilla. How do you think the women in the South complement what you bring to hip-hop? Obviously, it’s a different perspective but they bring that energy.

Yeah, I like what all the women doing right now. I like what all the women doing. I’m excited for them, I’m happy for them. It’s like a handful of them that I rock with. too. Another thing is I feel like we resonate well, the chemistry is good because of the substance and topics and like, how I come. How I come, I feel like this is just a versatility thing. Like I can do anything, you know what I’m saying? If it’s a song with a girl, I can do it. Like, if it’s a song with guys, I can do it. If it’s me singing like melodic, I can do it. Whatever it is, I feel like I can adjust to it whatever the case may be.

No, for sure. “Whiskey, Whiskey” is probably one of the more surprising songs that you’ve released. It just landed on Obama’s summer playlist. Can you just describe to me where you were when you first received that news, and what was your reaction to it?

I seen that yesterday. I was like, “Damn, Barack.” Like, he’s listening? That was a good feeling, but it was a shocking one. You don’t think when you’re putting these songs together and you putting this stuff out that its going to reach and do what it do. You don’t think that–some people do, though. Some people go in with that. I ain’t saying I ain’t confident, but some people go in with all the confidence. But my thing is with music today, you don’t never know. Like, you don’t know what’s gonna be this and be that, so it’s hard to say. So I just kind of like, let it do it.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 23: Music artist Moneybagg Yo performs during 2022 Rolling Loud New York at Citi Field on September 23, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

Have any singles surprised you with how successful they became?

Yeah, all of them except for “Wockesha.” I kind of knew that one was like–I was so passionate about the song, I kind of knew that song was going to be like, something special in some kind of way.

You’ve previously teased a country project with Morgan Wallen. How much progress has been made with that? If there has been any.

No, no, it just was an idea, a thought. Like, something that could happen.

Has he been receptive to the idea?

Yeah, he’s with whatever. Like, I’m one of his favorite artists.

I know it’s a bit of old news but you did some work with Kanye West a couple of years ago. What the biggest takeaway from being in the studio with him?

It was a good experience for me. I learned a lot and just saw how to do things, saw how stuff went, and just soaked up the game, and applied it to my situation. So shout out to Kanye. Unfortunately, what we did didn’t get used. But I understand like, as an artist, I understand it could be like that sometimes.

What was one thing that you learned from that session and started applying to your own sessions?

Just how to be creative. How to be creative with the songs, and start just making everything make sense. Like, starting from scratch, building the beats up. Already have the ideas on some of them and making the beats around them. Just different stuff.

I was recently watching Mannie Fresh explain how in the early days of Cash Money, they would take catchphrases and turn those into songs. I’ve noticed you have a similar approach to taking certain words or phrases and flipping them into hit records. How did Cash Money inspire your songwriting in that aspect? If they did at all.

I didn’t even know that they looked at it like that or they were doing it like that. To be honest, when I do it I just do it because–it’s gonna look like that, so it gonna be hard. But it’s just like, it’s a moment. I just feel like it’s just a moment in life to where it’s like, this is what’s going on right now. This is what I’m literally experiencing. I’m going through this or like, I’m dealing with this. It all circles back to like that term or that phrase, or whatever the case may be.

So I just feel like, use it. It makes sense, and that’s what’s going on in the world. So that’s more the more the key things is like, you gotta be relatable. That’s the only way your music is gonna get off. If they can’t relate to it, how they gonna play it? [laughs]

You’ve established yourself as a highly successful business person. On a business level, what would you like to tackle outside of music?

I’m doing clothing right now. I got my Loaf Brand clothing. So, that’s in the process right now.

That’s high-end streetwear, right?

Yeah.

Any last words for the HotNewHipHop audience?

Stay tuned. I got a lot in store for you. A lot, a lot, a whole lot of stuff in store for you. Stay locked in. Follow me, I won’t misguide you.

The post Moneybagg Yo Talks Obama Co-Sign, “Speak Now Or,” Denzel Washington & More appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Diddy’s (Alleged) Dirty Deeds: Sinister Stories & Scandals Through The Years

September 25, 2024 by newhiphopnews

A Hip Hop empire has fallen now that Sean “Diddy” Combs has been taken into federal custody. The media mogul rose through the industry’s ranks to become one of the most successful Rap moguls to date, but his career has been fraught with controversy since its inception. Diddy has reigned over his Hip Hop kingdom with precision, floating through each of his monikers at various stages of his development. After helping to put Uptown Records on the map, Combs founded Bad Boy Records, an iconic label that gave us The Notorious B.I.G., Faith Evans, Total, The LOX, Craig Mack, 112, Shyne, Cassie, Mase, and many more. During its heyday, there were only a few labels to contend with the megahits rolling out of Bad Boys’ studios, but these days, Diddy’s alleged dirty deeds have placed him in a spotlight that the hitmaker would have rather avoided.

As Diddy faces an onslaught of lawsuits alleging violence and sexual abuse, he’s also looking at the possibility of spending the remainder of his life in prison. Federal authorities reportedly arrested Combs in New York City last week after being charged with racketeering and sex trafficking. Although his legal team hoped he could await his trial in the comforts of his lavish estate, a judge ordered Diddy to remain behind bars until the launch of his trial. This shocking decision, along with the reports of what authorities located in Diddy’s home during their raid, has taken over timelines. Even the mega-mogul’s peers have come forward, some to defend his character, while others share wild, alleged “Diddy Party” stories of their own.

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It was Cassie Ventura’s explosive lawsuit against her former lover last year that seemed to propel this current investigation. We’ll get more into that as we go on, but Combs settled that suit out of court just 24 hours after Ventura filed her paperwork. However, hers wasn’t the first allegation of abuse—for over a decade, stories have haunted Puff from the courtroom to the streets. These accusations have surfaced from Wendy Williams to Combs’ former employees to Al. B Sure defending the late Kim Porter to models who have retained their own attorneys. Meanwhile, the internet is walking down memory lane as it revisits some of Diddy’s most controversial moments. The list of rumors and allegations is enough for a miniseries, but we’re gathering just a few of the most discussed from the life of Sean Combs that have kept him in infamy.

Notorious B.I.G.’s Murder

In March 1997, Hip Hop suffered a great loss when Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G. or Biggie Smalls, was fatally gunned down in Los Angeles. For decades, speculation has circulated in the industry regarding Biggie’s death, and some even named Combs in rumors of a plot. Then, Rolling Stone released an exposé that shook the foundation of the case—they purported Wallace wanted out of his Bad Boy contract and was working on his exit from the label. The publication further stated that Biggie turned to his legal team to gain rights to his publishing, and there was a covert battle between Puff and Big about the concerns.

Upon news of Biggie’s death, RS claimed that Combs capitalized on the tragedy for financial gain. Rolling Stone approached Bad Boy for a magazine cover just months after Big’s murder. However, Kirk Burrowes, who co-founded the label and was acting as president of the company at the time, said that Diddy didn’t want Big on the cover. Instead, Combs graced the August 1997 issue, with Burrowes alleging that Diddy wanted to promote his debut album, No Way Out. Meanwhile, Biggie’s murder officially remains unsolved, although there is still gossip involving Combs, Suge Knight, and a host of characters.

The Assault On Steve Stoute

Mega music executive Steve Stoute also had his name tied up in Diddy’s madness, albeit back in 1998. At that time, Stoute was acting as Nas’ manager, and it was then that he reportedly had a heated altercation with Combs. According to The Los Angeles Times, Stoute recalled he and Diddy exchanging words on the music video set of “Hate Me Now.” As the story goes, the idea for the video was for Combs to be depicted as a crucified Christ. Diddy wanted the scene axed, but somehow, it wasn’t removed. This reportedly angered Combs, who, Stoute said, showed up at his office and went after him with a champagne bottle. Stoute alleged that during the attack, his jaw and arm were broken.

The altercation resulted in Diddy receiving assault charges, but he denied any bones were damaged. Combs would later speak with MTV about the incident, claiming he apologized to Stoute. He also stated he “disappointed myself” as well as the “Hip Hop community.” Combs added, “Because everything I do, I’m trying to be a team player in taking Hip Hop to the next level.” Later, Diddy pleaded guilty to harassment and was ordered to take an anger management course.

Diddy Allegedly Threatened A Vibe Editor

@toureshow

Diddy attacked a lot of people and from what I’m hearing, most were women.

♬ original sound – Toure X

This story has resurfaced after famed journalist Touré revisited the tale in a TikTok video. According to the clip, Danyel Smith was an editor at Vibe magazine in 1995 when Diddy graced the cover. She actually previously shared this story with The New York Times, claiming that days following the cover photo shoot, Combs reached out demanding to see the images before they were published. Smith denied the request because it wasn’t Vibe‘s protocol—along with most magazines. After being rejected, Smith stated she heard through the grapevine that Combs planned to visit Vibe‘s offices in an effort to force her hand. Days later, Smith alleged that Diddy showed up irate, requesting to see her immediately while searching for her. Smith remarked she was doing her best to avoid the upset mogul and managed to sneak out of the back door and hail a cab home.

This wasn’t the saga’s end; Puff allegedly called again the next day, wanting to see the pictures. Smith once again said no, and it was then that she claimed he threatened to “see you dead in the trunk of a car.” Combs is also accused of telling her he knew her exact location at that moment, and Smith said she wasn’t taking any chances. She contacted her attorney, resulting in the mega-producer issuing an apology. Again, one would think this is the conclusion of a wild story, but according to Smith, within days, there was another controversy. She stated that when she returned to work, the servers that held all the information for Diddy’s Vibe issue were no longer there. They were purportedly stolen, but despite the setback, the issue was published.

The Club Shooting Which Landed Shyne In Jail

Probably one of the most significant controversies in Combs’ career is tied to Moses “Shyne” Barrow. Shyne was an emerging artist under the Bad Boy umbrella, with his deep, captivating cadence that caught the attention of both fans and the industry. However, a night out at the club in December 1999 would derail Shyne’s career after it turned into a shooting that injured three people. Now, what occurred that evening has been under speculation for years. What is known is there was an altercation that escalated into someone pulling out a firearm—and Shyne was accused of having his finger on the trigger.

Shyne and Diddy faced charges related to the shooting, but the latter was acquitted despite authorities claiming they found weapons in his vehicle. Yet, Shyne wasn’t so lucky and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Since then, he has turned his life around after returning to Belize. Now an activist and politician, Shyne has left his Hip Hop life behind him. However, he has reunited with Diddy on stage at least twice since 2022. After learning of Combs’ recent arrest, Shyne spoke with reporters to share his thoughts. He said this wasn’t someone “who I vacationed with and someone who I enjoyed this great, intimate relationship of brotherhood. This is someone who destroyed my life.”

Drama Over Artists’ Publishing Rights

Over the years, several Bad Boy artists have come forward with complaints over their former label head not budging on giving them their publishing rights. Several of the Golden Era of Hip Hop hitmakers like Mase, members of 112 and Danity Kane, and others reportedly petitioned Combs for control of their publishing, to no avail. Pertaining to Mase, the Harlem World rapper took his grievances to the internet, publicly calling out his former friend. Following much controversy and scandal, Diddy decided to give his former artists their publishing rights in 2023. The move was praised by those who have complained throughout the years, aside from former Danity Kane singer Aubrey O’Day. The Making the Band star has long spoken out against Combs, even stating that in order to receive her publishing, she was allegedly told she needed to agree to no longer speak critically of Puff. In light of his federal charges, O’Day has celebrated his arrest.

Dawn Richard’s Lawsuit

Two weeks ago, Combs was hit with another lawsuit, this time from former Danity Kane singer Dawn Richard. Years ago, during an interview with Hot97, Richard seemingly praised Diddy and spoke about being loyal to him for helping develop her career on Making the Band. However, there were rumors of misdealings and ill feelings behind the scenes, and her recent lawsuit was yet another that stopped the industry in its tracks.

According to Richard’s court documents, she has accused Combs of physical violence and intimidation. She specifically named alleged incidents, including one involving Cassie Ventura. Richard stated she was at a dinner with Jimmy Iovine, Ne-Yo, and Usher, and it was there that Diddy allegedly punched Cassie in front of the guests, and no one moved or came to the singer’s aid. Richard also stated that she witnessed Combs threaten Ventura, choke her, and drag her upstairs. Richard also claimed Diddy locked her in a car for hours, “manipulated her” by threatening her career, and tried to convince her that women in the industry would have to face “abuse and exploitation” to be successful.

Further, Richard’s suit also included mentions of Diddy’s infamous parties, or as the federal authorities have called them, “freak offs.” The singer stated that she witnessed these events with “passed out” women who were alleged victims to Combs and his friends, who “performed sexual acts on them.” Moreover, Richard said she was violated when Combs allegedly grabbed her “bare buttocks” while she was in a changing room, even attempting to “touch her breasts.” When she continued to deny his advances, Richard claimed Diddy stifled her career. The lawsuit is ongoing.

His Relationship With Cassie

NEW YORK, NY – JANUARY 27: Cassie (L) and recording artist Sean “Diddy” Combs attend the Clive Davis and Recording Academy Pre-GRAMMY Gala and GRAMMY Salute to Industry Icons Honoring Jay-Z on January 27, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic)

Last year, Cassie filed a lawsuit against Diddy, unraveling a bevy of allegations of abuse throughout their 11-year relationship. These accusations included rape, physical violence, intimidation, manipulation, and forcing her to engage in sexual acts with male escorts. Additionally, there was a story about an artist whose car was blown up because Diddy supposedly believed he and Cassie were dating after a breakup. Kid Cudi would later come forward to confirm that he was, indeed, the man in question, and the incident did occur. Diddy quickly settled the lawsuit but accused Cassie of previously attempting to blackmail him for millions. Through his lawyer, he denied the allegations.

Then, earlier this year, a video of Diddy and Cassie surfaced, again thrusting them into infamy. The surveillance footage was from a hotel, showing Cassie making her way to an elevator before Combs is seen running after her, dragging her by her hair, punching her, and kicking her while she was on the ground. Cassie further speculated in her lawsuit that Diddy paid off certain hotel workers to suppress the video evidence.

Scandal Over Fight With J. Cole Over Kendrick Lamar

This controversy resurfaced in the thick of Kendrick Lamar’s recent outpouring of diss tracks against Drake. After J. Cole swiftly removed himself from the brewing beef, fans hopped online to revisit the 2013 rumor of Cole and Combs getting into a physical altercation. The alleged event reportedly took place at an afterparty for the MTV Video Music Awards. Combs was said to have been liquored up when he confronted Cole about Lamar dubbing himself the “King of New York” on a track. K. Dot was also at the event, and Diddy allegedly attempted to pour a drink on him before Cole stepped in. Things escalated and became physical, claimed sources, but it was mainly pushing more than fisticuffs.

CCNY Controversy

In 1991, the City College of New York became the scene of a fatal stampede. Diddy was all set for a promoted celebrity basketball game and impending concert in the packed gymnasium with a capacity of 2,730. However, fans stormed the location, and at least 5,000 people were in attendance, according to reports. Things became so out of control that officials stopped letting in guests as there wasn’t enough security to stave off the crowd. Closed doors didn’t stop those on the outside from trying to make their way in, eventually breaking down the barriers. The stampede resulted in over two dozen people being injured and nine others losing their lives. Much like Travis Scott faced at Astroworld, Combs was hit with several lawsuits from victims and family members of the deceased.

Usher’s Comments About Living With Diddy During His Youth

When young artists enter the music industry, many parents allow their children to live with high-profile producers or executives as they are developed. This happened with Bow Wow and Jermaine Dupri, Justin Bieber and Scooter Braun, and Usher with Diddy. Of the latter pair, in 2016, Usher reflected on his time at Diddy’s home when he was 13 and 14 years old. While on The Howard Stern Show, Usher recalled, “There were very curious things taking place.” He spoke about the late-night to early-morning parties Combs would host with his celebrity friends. The Grammy winner also suggested that the women who frequented these events flirted with the rising star.

Diddy Assaulting UCLA Coach Over Son, Justin Combs

Pride was illuminated by the Combs family when Diddy’s son Justin was accepted to the UCLA football team. However, in 2015, it was reported that Diddy got into a physical altercation with the then-assistant football coach, Sal Alosi. It was said that Diddy was less than thrilled when Alosi criticized Justin, leading to an argument later in the coach’s office. The mogul was accused of grabbing Alosi and throwing a kettlebell at another employee. It was rumored that Diddy had to be physically removed from the location, but Combs denied the allegations via his representative. Yet, Diddy was still arrested for assault, but charges were not filed against him. He would later speak on the incident during an interview with The Breakfast Club, which you can watch above.

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