Mike WiLL Made-It Criticizes Rappers For Remaking Classic Songs

Mike WiLL Made-It is one of the defining producers of the 2010s. He helped to cultivate the sound of an entire generation of artists, courtesy of his hard-hitting sound and his signature tag. Mike WiLL’s profile has lessened in recent years, as he’s stepped back to focus on the artists signed to his record label. He had something to get off his chest May 16, however. The Atlanta producer got on X (formerly Twitter) to complain about the current state of hit-making. According to him, artists have gotten lazy.

The critique came in two parts. The first saw Mike WiLL Made-It call out artists who simply remake iconic songs. “Sick of hearing remakes,” he tweeted. “Nothing like original shxt.” The second message pointed out the trend of older artists agreeing to hop on the remake of their own song. “Please don’t feature on your classic remake,” he added. “It’s a pet peeve of mine.”

Read More: Chief Keef & Mike Will Made-It Craft A Banger With “Dirty Nachos”

Mike WiLL Made-It Wants Artists To Make Original Music

The producer didn’t mention any names, but there are plenty of recent examples. Usher hopped on Summer Walker’s “Come Thru,” which sampled his 1997 single “You Make Me Wanna…”. Then there’s Fergie, who performed alongside Jack Harlow at the VMA’s when he sampled “Glamorous” on his radio hit, “First Class.”

Mike WiLL Made-It is tired of this trend. He doesn’t blame the record labels, either, he blames the artists. In his estimation, the labels don’t care about the music so long as they are moving units. “They just put the shxt on the shelf,” he wrote in a separate tweet. “Its on the production company or the independent artist…” Mike WiLL wasn’t the only producer who voiced their frustration.

Sonny Digital, another 2010s stalwart, backed up the claim. He quote tweeted Mike WiLL and added: “I swear I don’t respect anybody remaking a song that’s already a hit and then ACT like they made a hit from a song that was ALREADY a hit.” Here’s hoping more high-profile artists take not of what these producers are saying, and attempt more original music.

Read More: Jay-Z’s “Beach Is Better” Was Originally Made For This Rapper, Mike Will Made-It Claims

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Fergie Net Worth 2023: What Is The Singer Worth?

From her humble beginnings in Hacienda Heights, California, to her meteoric rise as a pop sensation, Fergie Duhamel, better known by her stage name, Fergie, has etched her name into the annals of music history. Emerging from the vibrant 90s music scene, she first graced our screens as a member of the children’s television program Kids Incorporated and later as part of the girl group Wild Orchid. However, the journey began when she joined The Black Eyed Peas in 2002, injecting a refreshing dynamic into the group and catapulting them to worldwide fame. A noteworthy piece of trivia? Fergie’s net worth as of 2023 stands at a whopping $45 million, according to Fresherslive.

Career Highlights & Accolades

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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 11: Winners The Black Eyed Peas at the 49th annual Grammy Awards, September 11, 2007 at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Bob Riha, Jr./Getty Images)

The sheer diversity of Fergie’s career achievements is astounding. As a vital component of The Black Eyed Peas, she produced hits like Where Is The Love? and I Gotta Feeling. Her solo career, launched with the album The Dutchess in 2006, brought a series of chart-topping singles such as “Big Girls Don’t Cry” and “Glamorous.” Fergie’s unique vocal flair and ability to traverse genres effortlessly make her one of the most versatile artists of her generation. The awards? They followed suit. Her shelves are adorned with acknowledgments from peers and critics alike, from Grammy Awards to American Music Awards.

Personal Life & Highlights

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NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 26: Fergie performs on stage during New York City Pride 2016 – Dance On The Pier on June 26, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Noam Galai/WireImage)

Behind the glitz and glamour, Fergie has had her fair share of ups and downs. Her struggles with addiction were well-documented, but her resilience and determination saw her overcome these obstacles and use her platform to inspire others. She has been an open book, discussing these challenges in interviews, hoping to provide solace and guidance to those facing similar struggles. On the brighter side, Fergie became a mother in 2013, a role she cherishes deeply. Her son, Axl Jack Duhamel, frequently features on her social media, showcasing their close bond.

Business Ventures & Philanthropy

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LOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 07: Guitarist Slash and singer Fergie perform during the 4th Annual Peapod Foundation Benefit Concert. Hosted by The Black Eyed Peas and the Entertainment Industry Foundation. At Avalon Hollywood on February 7, 2008 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Michael Caulfield/WireImage)

Besides her music, Fergie has ventured into diverse fields. She’s left her distinctive mark everywhere, from launching fragrances to dabbling in the fashion world with her shoe line. Notably, her entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t overshadow her philanthropic heart. Fergie is an avid supporter of various charitable causes, with a particular focus on children. Whether through her involvement with the MAC AIDS Fund or championing education through charities, her dedication to making the world a better place is evident.

The post Fergie Net Worth 2023: What Is The Singer Worth? appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Ludacris Gives Jack Harlow A Co-Sign Over His ‘Exceptional’ Sample Use On ‘First Class’: ‘He Did It Justice’

Jay-Z shared that he thought Ludacris’ lyrical abilities were often underrated, and indeed, the Fast X star’s impact in rap shouldn’t be swept under the rug. Quite some time has passed since the entertainer has released an album of his own, but his past releases often find their way onto the music charts thanks to clever samples by today’s rising acts.

Rapper Kali didn’t realize she was referencing Ludacris on her song, “Area Codes,” but Jack Harlow sure did when he sampled Fergie’s 2007 song “Glamorous,” which featured Ludacris. Harlow’s chart-topping single “First Class” earned him Ludacris’ respect and official co-sign. During an appearance in a new GQ video, Ludacris spoke about Harlow’s breakout track.

When asked if he was approving of the usage of the sample, the musician said, “How can I not be OK with it? I’m doing shows, and there’s a whole new generation that is identifying with the record, even if they haven’t heard my verse, simply because Jack Harlow is doing it over.”

He added, “I feel like he did it justice. It would be different if it was a poor rendition, but it’s not. Jack Harlow did it exceptionally well, and I enjoy the record.”

Watch the video above.

Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

Black Eyed Peas’ Top 10 Streamed Songs

The Black Eyed Peas have been one of the most successful and influential pop groups of the last two decades. From sold-out concerts to numerous accolades, this legendary dance-pop group has made itself into a global sensation. The group currently consists of artists Will.i.am, Apl.de.ap, and Taboo, and formerly also included Kim Hill and Fergie. They are widely known for their catchy melodies and energetic sound, along with innovative beats that make them stand out. The Black Eyed Peas have unequivocally shared an endless string of songs that the world will always remember, and here are the ten most popular.

10. Pump It

“Pump It” was released as a part of the 2005 album Monkey Business, The Black Eyed Peas’ fourth studio album. The song was heavily influenced by Dick Dale’s 1962 surf version of “Misirlou”. Specifically, Will.i.am heard the song and was immediately inspired to make a few beats matching the same energy while on the plane to Tokyo, and soon recorded the vocals for the song there. This song was a quick hit and continues to be loved by fans across the globe.

9. Meet Me Halfway

Released in September of 2009, “Meet Me Halfway” was one of the biggest hits off of their fifth studio album, The E.N.D.. This song is still listened to by many and played in public spots everywhere in America. Also, it was performed at the 2009 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, as well as many other events at the time in an effort to promote the song. Certainly, this fun dance-pop tune gave fans a new view of The Black Eyed Peas and allowed them to see their music in an even more energetic light.

8. Where Is The Love?

This 2003 hip-hop hit reigned as the lead single from their third album, Elephunk. “Where Is The Love?” was written by Will.i.am, Apl.de.ap, Taboo, Justin Timberlake, Printz Board, Michael Fratantuno, and George Pajon. The song was written about the state of the world and how there is a lack of love, using a passionate, soulful sound to deliver the importance of this message. Evidently, this release truly revealed that The Black Eyed Peas were not only in it for the music, but additionally to use their platform for good.

7. Don’t Phunk With My Heart

“Don’t Phunk With My Heart” was recorded in 2005 as a part of the album Monkey Business. The song was both produced and engineered by Will.i.am, written about both sides of a break-up. Overall, this one stands out as it is not only dance hip-pop, but it also effortlessly combines soul, jazz, and rap as well. It may be a hit, but it certainly isn’t at the top of the list compared to these upcoming tracks.

6. Imma Be

This track off of The Black Eyed Peas’ 2009 fifth studio album is arguably their most catchy. It was initially meant to be released as a promotional single song, but instead ended up becoming one of their biggest hits. Also, this song was included and featured in multiple films including The Other Guys and The Hangover Part II. Undeniably, this song is captivating and unforgettable.

5. RITMO (Bad Boys For Life)

RITMO (Bad Boys For Life) was released by The Black Eyed Peas and Colombian singer J. Balvin in 2019. It features a sample of the 1993 song “The Rhythm of the Night” by Italian group Corona, making it especially stand out. Overall, the song remained on the charts for 27 weeks, being quite the recent hit for the group. It is still fairly relevant on social media and remains a popular hit to this day.

4. Just Can’t Get Enough

This song was written and released along with The Black Eyed Peas’ sixth studio album, The Beginning in 2010. And, the song made its way around the world, traveling to the top-five charts in New Zealand, Australia, Greece, France, and more.

3. Boom Boom Pow

Boom Boom Pow is a super popular EDM/dance-pop released by The Black Eyed Peas in 2009. Quickly, it became the group’s first number-one single on the charts, staying at the top for 12 weeks. In this song, Fergie raps “I’m so three thousand and eight, you so two thousand and late.”, an iconic lyric giving the track a futuristic, electro energy. It was heavily influenced by popular electro music that would often play in clubs at the time.

2. My Humps

“My Humps” is a hip-hop/electropop song released in 2005 as a part of their fourth studio album Monkey Business. Initially, the song was performed as a duet between Will.i.am and Fergie, and it is definitely one of their more sexually suggestive songs lyrically. Although this track was released over fifteen years ago, it is currently facing issues in the form of a lawsuit. There has been a parody of the song called “My Poops” used for a new kids’ toy, which is now being investigated and is resulting in a lawsuit.

1. I Gotta Feeling

“I Gotta Feeling” was released in 2009 and was nominated for The Grammy’s Record of the Year and won the award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. Two years after its release, it became the first track in American history to sell over seven million digital copies. Also, formerly held the record as the most downloaded song of all time on iTunes. Overall, The Black Eyed Peas were and continue to be one of the most successful groups of the 2000s, and they continue to prove that to this day.

Black Eyed Peas Sue Toymaker for Unauthorized Use of Turning “My Humps” into “My Poops”

Black Eyed Peas Sue Toymaker for Unauthorized Use of Turning 22My Humps22 into 22My Poops22

There has been a lot of discussion in the media recently regarding the unauthorized use of another’s art. From accusations that the Lensa app used artists’ works without permission to Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene using Dr. Dre‘s music in a political video, patent and copyright law is shaping up to be a major issue in 2023. Now, the Black Eyed Peas have entered the fight with a lawsuit against toymaker MGA Entertainment, the makers of the Poopsie Slime Surprise toy, used the group’s 2006 hit “My Humps” without permission.

The lawsuit was filed by the group’s label, BMG, in the U.S. District Court in Manhattan. Amongst other things, it alleges that MGA Entertainment displayed “willful copyright infringement” and “exploited, without authorization” the group’s art as part of its promotional campaign for its “Poopsie Slime Surprise” product line, which featured “a unicorn doll that excretes sparkling slime.” BMG is seeking $10 million in damages, as well as requiring that MGA destroy all copies of “My Poops.”

A YouTube video shows animated unicorns dancing to digitally-altered lyrics where they showcase the toy’s “pooping” features.

Legal experts state that MGA’s primary defense will be that the song was used as a parody, since using art for the purpose of parody is protected by free speech law. However, there are legal limits when it comes to whether or not MGA exploited the song to make a profit.

“My Humps” was a major hit for the group in 2006 and continues to remain popular today, accruing over 700 million views on YouTube. The video also won Best Hip Hop Video at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards. The original video is shown below.

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Brandy Drops Freestyle Over Jack Harlow’s ‘First Class’

B Rocka is back.

Brandy comes through with a freestyle to “First Class,” inspired by an interview Jack Harlow did with Hot 97 in which he admitted that he didn’t know that Brandy and Ray J were siblings.

After seeing the now-viral video, Brandy responded. “I will murk this dude in rap at 43 on his own beats and then sing is ass to sleep,” she tweeted.

Now she’s delivering on her promise. On Wednesday, the 43-year-old R&B icon released her “First Class” freestyle, where she drops bars while reminding listeners of her legendary status.

“Allow me to reintroduce myself, my name is world famous, one of the greatest / Living legend, did I mention my résumé is amazing?” raps the former “Moesha” star, who played rapper Xplicit Lyrics on ABC’s since-canceled drama “Queens.”

“Over 20 years and I’m still a topic / A bitch is worth a million and I’m feeling philanthropic,” she continues over the Fergie-sampled beat. “Popular but now I’m poppin’ shit for those out of pocket.”

She also brings up her brother Ray J. “Built tougher than my brother Ray J glasses,” she raps, referencing Ray J’s “unbreakable” eyewear.

And from the sound of it, B Rocka is inspired to rap again. “Back on top of the world, sky’s blue again / Doing something people thought I’d never do again,” she says.

Listen to Brandy’s fiery flow below.

Jack Harlow’s ‘First Class’ Flips Fergie’s ‘Glamorous’ Into A Enticing Invitation To The Mile-High Club

In just a matter of weeks, Jack Harlow will release his sophomore album Come Home The Kids Miss You. The project is set to be the follow-up to 2020’s That’s What They Say which featured popular records like “What’s Poppin” and “Tyler Herro.” So far, Harlow has released one single from Come Home The Kids Miss You, that being “Nail Tech.” The track is a classy and flashy record that was very much on-brand for Harlow and he keeps that theme alive on his latest single.

With less than a month until Come Home The Kids Miss You, Harlow returns with “First Class.” The track gained traction on social media thanks to its wonderful sample of Fergie’s 2006 song “Glamorous,” which fans got a tease of thanks to a preview from the rapper. Harlow uses the classic record to create an enticing invitation to the mile-high club for a special lady in his life all while teasing the perks of flying above the clouds.

In addition to sharing the release date for Come Home The Kids Miss You, Harlow also unveiled the cover art for the project. It depicts him in front of a white backdrop as he sits on a stool with a mic stand beside him.

You can listen to “First Class” in the video above.

Come Home The Kids Miss You is out 5/6 via Atlantic.

Jack Harlow is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

A Look Into Hidden Features on Hip-Hop Songs

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