It seems like not even jail time is enough to scare 6ix9ine into paying his six-figure credit card debt to American Express. Moreover, according to Page Six, authorities recently arrested the rapper in Florida’s Palm Beach County on Wednesday (August 9) for failing to appear in court. Unless this is an entirely different case unknown to the public, you might’ve heard of this development in relation to his credit card debts. Just yesterday as of writing this article (August 9), American Express reportedly sent out subpoenas to begin taking money from his other bank accounts to pay for the near-$120K unpaid fees. It’s still unclear how much this will actually affect his finances or if he will try to reach some sort of deal.
Furthermore, failure to show up in court when summoned can result in either imprisonment or fines, according to West Palm Beach Defense. How much these payments or jail stays are depends on the judge in the case, the severity of the crimes in their eyes, and what the case is about. With that in mind, apparently 6ix9ine got off pretty easy with this recent arrest, and perhaps his legal future over his debts will be similar. After all, the New York MC was only in custody for about three hours before posting a $2,000 bond and being free again.
MIAMI, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 17: Rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine performs during the MiamiBash 2021 at FTX Arena on December 17, 2021 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by John Parra/Getty Images)
Of course, the rainbow-haired provocateur is no stranger to legal trouble or court cases. Also this week, a tattoo artist named Takashi Matsuba sued him for defamatory comments. It’s ironic because 6ix9ine (also known as Tekashi) said that the ink artist is the inspiration for his rap name. However, the 27-year-old also claimed Matsuba was addicted to heroin in the past, which he claimed in his suit to have negatively impacted his business.
“I lost a number of friends, but by far the most important one is my dear wife,” Matsuba’s lawsuit read. “We divorced last year, because she no longer trusted me after Hernandez’s false statements about me were broadcast on Hulu and Showtime.” We’ll see which case ends up being more impactful on the “Shaka Laka” singer. For more news and the latest updates on 6ix9ine, come back to HNHH.
In response to the racial tension and injustice in Florida, two major black organizations, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), have moved their upcoming conferences to different locations. This move is a direct result of the policies implemented by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, which have been deemed harmful […]
Say what you will, but Kodak Black has emerged as a generational voice in hip-hop. Hailing from Pompano Beach, Florida, the self-proclaimed “Project Baby” ushered in a new era in hip-hop, one that reflected his upbringing in the Sunshine State and created a blueprint for the artists that followed. However, his career hasn’t gone without controversies. From his support for Donald Trump to his latest “Shaka Laka” collaboration with Tekashi 6ix9ine alongside Yailin La Mas Viral, Kodak evidently has no issues going against the grain.
However, that hardly scratches the surface regarding his contentious presence in the culture. Since emerging into the limelight, he has faced a number of legal issues, including charges related to sexual assault and gun possession, that have derailed his career. Regardless, his influence extends to the biggest artists in the game, like Cardi B, who cited the Florida native as the inspiration behind “Bodak Yellow.” Add to the fact that hip-hop’s Big 3 – Drake, J. Cole, and Kendrick Lamar – have extended their co-signs to his talent.
MIAMI, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 03: Kodak Black performs at the Miami Benefit concert for Haiti at Oasis Wynwood on September 03, 2021 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by John Parra/Getty Images)
Born Dieuson Octave (later changing his name to Bill Kahan Kapri) on June 11, 1997, Kodak Black was raised in the Golden Acres housing projects in Pompano Beach. Exposed to a world of violence and crime at an early age, he began rapping during elementary school. Eventually, he began recording music at a local trap house in his area while reading dictionaries and thesauruses to boost his vocabulary.
Unfortunately, during these times, he also got caught up in criminal activities, from breaking and entering to fights. Still, by age 12, he began establishing his name in his local area. As J-Black, he joined a rap group called Brutal Youngnz and, later, The Kolyons. However, his 2013 mixtape, Project Baby, released through Sniper Gang and Dollaz N Dealz, established him as a force of his own.
By 2014, Kodak had already released his second mixtape, Heart Of The Projects, boasting two of his earliest hits, “Skrt” and “No Flockin.” The latter would, in fact, influence Cardi B’s “Bodak Yellow” and earned Yak writing credits on the song, while the former earned critical praise. However, Drake later co-signed the song in an Instagram video where he danced along to the record. Afterward, OVO Sound Radio included “SKRT” in one of their episodes, helping Kodak Black transform into one of the most exciting voices in hip-hop. Even though people like Earl Sweatshirt criticized Drake for supposedly “vulturing” off of new talent, the relationship between Drizzy and Kodak remains strong to this day.
If there have ever been doubts surrounding Boosie Badazz’s influence on the next generation, look no further than Kodak Black. While the two may be in the midst of a spat these days surrounding Yak’s collaboration with 6ix9ine, it’s hard to deny the influence Boosie’s had on him, not only through their connection to the South but Yak’s ability to highlight the localized sound of his area and the realist portrayals of his neighborhood.
This, by extension, inspired plenty of other artists that followed to similarly share their respective stories without compromising their penmanship. Projects like 2015’s Institution, 2017’s Painting Pictures, and of course, Dying To Live in 2017 highlighted Kodak Black’s ability to preach the street’s sermon without sounding holier-than-thou. His unapologetically youthful personality established his position on the XXL Freshman list in 2017 audiences, while his emotive tracks revealed a deep sense of pain and struggle. Kodak’s music expressed the resilience and determination that defined his journey from the projects to prominence.
The rich influence on Southern hip-hop extends into Kodak Black’s production choices, as well. Kodak Black has proved to be a sonic chameleon with effortless versatility. His catalog draws an evident influence from 90s Southern hip-hop, from twangy guitars to the bluesy progressions found in his production choices.
NEWARK, NEW JERSEY – OCTOBER 29: Kodak Black performs onstage during Powerhouse NYC at Prudential Center on October 29, 2022 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Manny Carabel/Getty Images)
There’s no shortage of controversies surrounding Kodak Black. In 2017, he went on Instagram Live while a woman performed fellatio on him. A few months later, he faced accusations of colorism after he stated that he “don’t really like Black girls” like that while also claiming that he preferred women with a lighter complexion because they’re easier to break down. Then, following the news of Nipsey Hussle’s death, he suggested waiting “a whole year” before trying to pursue sexual relations with the late rapper’s longtime partner Lauren London. Following the backlash, Kodak later apologized. In addition, he also caught significant flack in recent times after he received a pardon from Donald Trump during the last days of his presidency. Although Yak managed to get his sentence commuted, his fans didn’t agree with his alignment and support for the former president.
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 23: Kodak Black attends the 4th Annual TIDAL X: Brooklyn at Barclays Center of Brooklyn on October 23, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images for TIDAL)
Kodak Black has and continues to face several legal issues throughout his career. In his teenage years, he spent time in a youth detention center. In 2015, he faced charges related to robbery and false imprisonment. He also served time for misdemeanor drug charges. However, his most significant charge has been linked to allegations of sexual assault.
In 2020, the rapper pleaded guilty to firearms charges after he was detained at the Canadian-American border. A year prior, he was arrested for providing false information on a form related to a gun purchase. Although Trump later commuted his 2020 conviction, he returned home to face the alleged sexual assault trial. He took a plea bargain for a lesser charge of assault and battery and received an 18-month probation sentence.
Yak is still facing challenges with the legal system, recently facing charges of trafficking oxycodone and possession of a controlled substance. This came after police pulled him over in Florida over tinted windows. Police claimed they discovered $75K in cash and oxycodone pills.
Kodak Black’s journey from a young rapper in Pompano Beach to becoming a prominent figure in hip-hop is marked by controversy, resilience, and authenticity. Despite facing numerous setbacks in his career, his presence remains prevalent in the culture. From controversial statements to hit records like “Zeze” and “Super Gremlin,” Kodak Black is an unstoppable entity in the rap game. His undeniable influence continues to touch the underground and radio, even if not widely recognized. Regardless, Kodak Black remains one of the most consistent and refreshing artists in hip-hop, which is why people like Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and J. Cole have shown him love in the past.
A few years ago, Dominic Fike was a relatively low-key artist, best known for his affiliation with BROCKHAMPTON. Now, however, he’s made a name for himself as a main character on one of HBO’s biggest shows, which could only be topped by the arrival of his sophomore album. Sunburn, a 15-track release with just one guest appearance from Weezer, landed this past New Music Friday (July 7), and so far, fans seem to be loving it even more than Fike’s 2020 debut.
On What Could Possibly Go Wrong the Florida-born artist operated solo across 14 titles. “Why,” “Superstar Sh*t,” and “Chicken Tenders” have become the most popular tracks in the years since, helping to propel his career to new heights. Ahead of Sunburn, Fike shared “Dancing In The Courthouse,” “Ant Pile,” and “Mama’s Boy” as singles. In addition to that, he teamed up with Metro Boomin for “Mona Lisa,” which also appears on the Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse soundtrack.
As Hypebeast notes, the “3 Nights” hitmaker returned to his home state to make Sunburn. He chiefly took inspiration from his own upbringing as well as the culture around him throughout the creation of his work. Over the next few months, Fike will be busy preparing for his first-ever UK tour coming up this fall. He’ll kick things off on September 19 in Glasgow before moving on to entertain crowds in Manchester, Birmingham, and finally, London.
Check out Dominic Fike’s work with Weezer on “Think Fast” above, or tap into the full project on Spotify/Apple Music. Do you think that the Euphoria actor‘s sophomore LP is stronger than his 2020 debut? Let us know in the comments, and come back later for more HNHH release recommendations.
It’s been a busy year so far for Kodak Black. The Florida rapper has released six singles, including one for the Fast X soundtrack. “King Snipe” featuring Gucci Mane peaked at #100. Meanwhile, “Angel Pt. 1”, his track from Fast X featuring NLE Choppa, Jimin, Jvke, and Muni Long, peaked at #65.
Furthermore, Black released his fifth studio album, Pistols & Pearlz in late May. The album peaked at #19 on the Billboard 200 and at the time of writing, sits at #138. However, Black made headlines this week for some charitable work in his home state.
Black found a way to give back this week. TMZ reports that Black performed a 10-song at the Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Teen Leadership Conference in Florida on June 14. After the concert, Black spoke with attendees and asked various questions about careers and his inspirations. The conference was being held in Hollywood, just 15 miles north of Black’s hometown of Pompano Beach. The work follows comments about his legacy in April. “They care for n-ggas looking at them like they some type of gangsta,” Kodak said. “I don’t give a fuck about that shit you heard me? I don’t live for that. I’m a philanthropist, a good n-gga, righteous, all that. I only worry about being a good son and making sure my mom is proud of me. Making sure my family proud of me.”
However, it’s not the only time he’s worked with future generations in recent weeks. In May, Black spoke candidly about his Haitian heritage with Jazzy’s World TV, run by 13-year-old journalist Jazzy. “That’s a whole ‘nother country,” he said. “Like I can’t get away from it. That’s my culture. I got America, ’cause I was born here, and I got Haiti because that’s where my family [is] from.” His remarks to Jazzy came a few days after Haitian Flag Day (May 18), which celebrates the adoption of the national flag during the nation’s war for independence. Follow HotNewHipHop for all the latest music news.
After years of waiting behind bars, it’s officially time for YNW Melly’s double-murder trial. Things are finally kicking off today (June 12) in Broward County, Florida. As Miami New Times reports, the rapper is facing charges of killing two of his affiliates back in October 2018. YNW Sakchaser (born Anthony Williams) and YNW Juvy (Christopher Thomas Jr.) were reportedly shot at by Melly inside a gray Jeep Compass. Afterward, they were driven to the emergency room by his accomplice, Cortlen Henry.
The accused killer and his assistant assert that Sakchaser and Juvy were killed in a drive-by shooting. However, prosecutors in the case state that the forensic evidence shows the story was fabricated. Melly (real name Jamell Demons) turned himself in in February 2019. Police subsequently arrested him on capital murder charges. Nevertheless, the 23-year-old has vehemently denied the allegations against him in the years since. Attorneys have long attempted to free the “Murder On My Mind” artist as he sat behind bars awaiting trial to no avail.
Watch YNW Melly’s Trial Unfold Live from Broward County
From what we’ve seen from the courtroom so far today, the Florida native seems to be in good spirits, especially considering the recent update regarding the death penalty potentially looming over his head. While he temporarily had that sentence taken off the table ahead of trial, things took a dramatic turn earlier this month when it was confirmed Demons will be the first person tried under a new law making it easier than ever for a jury to make the fatal decision. Rather than securing a unanimous vote, they instead simply need to rule 8-4 in favour of ending Melly’s life.
Things are only just getting started in Broward County this morning, but there are sure to be plenty of noteworthy updates coming our way later this week. Tap into Law & Crime‘s live stream of the YNW Melly double-murder trial on YouTube above. For more information on the full investigation, check out our recent in-depth report at the link below.
Sunset Music Festival electrified the southern United States over Memorial Day Weekend, setting off the summer festival season. The 2023 edition starred a whole lot of vibrantly colored attendees thanks to a slew of electronic heavyweights AC Slater, Audien, Adventure Club, Bear Grillz, Chris Lake, Hannah Wants, Honeyluv, and more, all the while casting a sensory overload of top-notch visual and audio production. Because what’s a party without some serious sound production to knock ya around on the dancefloor?
While SMF has annually been a staple summer kickoff event in Florida, this year wowed the masses with its new 360-degree stage shade structure, allowing fans to get down to the sweltering beats of house music and not the sun itself. Of course, a nightly firework showcase to round off both nights after days of dancing to all the likes of electronic music was truly the icing on the cake. Sorry if you weren’t there, we understand if you have FOMO.
While this year’s festival circuit has a long list of impressive musical lineups and attendee offerings, we still can’t get SMF out of our heads. It reminds us that festivals truly are one of the building blocks that fosters connection across society (just when everything seems to be crumbling down around us). Don’t mind us if we keep these photos in our heads rent-free for the next couple of months as the beat of summer is only just beginning.
The long-awaited trial for YNW Melly’s murder case is finally due to kick off later this month. Unfortunately, the Florida native received some bad news ahead of that regarding the death penalty. It was previously taken off the table for Melly, but ultimately later put back on after the ruling was found to be faulty. Since then, the 23-year-old has continued to campaign for his freedom with the help of attorneys, family, friends, and fans.
Even from behind bars Melly has managed to get messages out via Instagram. In one from earlier this year, the “Murder On My Mind” artist shared that he’s “in fear of [his] life” behind bars while awaiting his fate. YNW has allegedly dealt with harsh deputies, lieutenants, and sergeants, all of whom he says are threatening to “hide [him] from the world.” The original posts are no longer on his profile, leaving only more recent snapshots of the embattled star smiling while wearing a suit in court.
As XXL reports, on Friday (June 2) Broward Circuit Judge John Murphy agreed with state prosecutors who filed a motion following a new statute allowing jury members to recommend a death sentence with an 8-4 vote. Before this, all 12 jurors would have to vote for the fatal penalty. Melly will officially be one of the first tried under the harsh new rule following Parkland High School shooter Nikolas Cruz’s recent denial due to a 9-3 vote from the jury.
Of all the states where it’s still legal, Florida now has the lowest threshold for handing out a death sentence in the country. Read all about the jury selection process for YNW Melly’s upcoming trial at the link below. Do you think the judge’s new ruling is fair for the young rapper? Let us know in the comments, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.
As one of the biggest artists from Florida right now, Yung Miami is looked at as not just a star, but also as a representative, whether she likes it or not. Moreover, her name recently formed part of another debate on whether artists should do more to address political and social issues in their home states, cities, or communities. “Caresha ain’t doing enough for me when it come to what is going on in Florida,” one user expressed on Twitter. “Same with the rest of the rappers from Florida. But she was my fav.” However, the City Girl expressed that she, for one, has her own problems to deal with but, more importantly, can’t do much about the state’s problems.
“Pls tell me wtf I’m supposed to do hen I got my own problems?” Yung Miami responded on the social media platform. “Tf Florida ain’t my kid.” For those unaware, the state went through some conservative-leaning changes through anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation and other controversies under the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis. His conflicts with Disney over protected speech and jurisdiction also nabbed him a lawsuit from the entertainment titans. Overall, for marginalized communities and the less privileged, things in Florida are getting more tense by the minute, especially after DeSantis officially filed to run for President of the United States in 2024.
Still, this doesn’t answer the original tweet’s implied question: what can celebrities do in the face of these issues? Of course, their large platform enables them a built-in audience and power to make these struggles more public. On the other hand, though, these individuals pursued just about every other avenue except the political realm. As such, many likely believe that they shouldn’t have to add social responsibility to that pile. While Yung Miami probably cares quite deeply about problems affecting her community, she is just an artist at the end of the day, even if many rightfully believe her voice means so much more than a lack of action.
Regardless, Caresha is quite busy with a lot of stuff right now, including a recently sprouted spat with Nicki Minaj. Meanwhile, Florida residents see themselves polarized to either end with such drastic and strong condemnations and restrictions of identity and ideology. Hopefully the 29-year-old uses her platform for good, whether through overt activism or by continuing to represent her community with grace wherever she goes. One thing’s for sure: Florida could really use a leader like her right now. For more news and the latest updates on Yung Miami, log back into HNHH.
The NAACP has issued a travel advisory for Florida, citing that Gov. Ron DeSantis has led the area to be “hostile to Black Americans.”
“On a seeming quest to silence African-American voices, the Governor and the State of Florida have shown that African Americans are not welcome in the State of Florida,” the statement reads.
“Due to this sustained, blatant, relentless and systemic attack on democracy and civil rights, the NAACP hereby issues a travel advisory to African Americans, and other people of color regarding the hostility towards African Americans in Florida.”
The advisory follows DeSantis’s action on Monday to prohibit the use of public funds on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. According to The Hill, he also recently blocked an Advance Placement African American Studies course in-state public colleges.
“Under the leadership of Governor Desantis, the state of Florida has become hostile to Black Americans and in direct conflict with the democratic ideals that our union was founded upon,” NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson said in a statement.
This comes ahead of an anticipated announcement by DeSantis, who is expected to announce his bid for President. According to The Post, a major Republican Party funder plans to abort Trump and put his power behind DeSantis.
The funder is Hal Lambert, founder of Texas-based Point Bridge Capital, which manages the “Make America Great Again” investment fund. “I’m in for DeSantis this time. I plan to do a lot to help DeSantis win,” Lambert said.
DeSantis recently was reported to not think of Trump as a threat, stating the race is solely between him and Biden.
(@ynwmelly)