freestyle

Black Thought Delivers “Love Letter To Hip Hop” Freestyle

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Black Thought has recorded a new freestyle in partnership with BET to celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. The five-minute piece, titled “A Love Letter To Hip Hop,” was directed by Benny Boom and released on Tuesday. Black Thought discussed the video in a statement provided to Rolling Stone afterward.

“Extraordinary ethos / Takeoff from the Migos / to become entire ecosystems / It’s wild / to think about how long people have listened,” Black Thought raps. “Now, 50 years down the line / we could spark this / my eternal beloved / hip-hop is where our hearts live.” He references countless other artists including Salt-N-Peppa, Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, and many more. The track arrives after Black Thought participated in the star-studded 50th-anniversary celebration at the Grammys earlier this month.

The Love Letter To Hip Hop

“This is a Love Letter to Hip-Hop for me because hip-hop is the love of my life. No matter what medium that it is that you’re working in. If you’re painting a picture, if you’re writing a book, if you’re writing a song,” Black Thought said. “Those works of art that resonate the most are when you actually pour your true self into it. I remember a time before hip hop and it’s something that we need to cherish and appreciate and not take for granted because it’s not guaranteed. Even though it’s always been there for people for the past few generations, it’s not guaranteed that it’s going to always be there if we don’t, you know what I’m saying, treat it the way we’re supposed to and continue to pour ourselves and to invest into it in an authentic way.”

Kimberly Paige, EVP and CMO of BET, also praised hip-hop’s ability to influence culture both nationally and globally. “Since its inception in 1973, Hip Hop is a driving force that continues to influence culture nationally and globally. Rooted in self-expression, its impact on music, fashion, art, and business is unmatched. BET is celebrating the genre’s tremendous contributions, legends, and future icons all year long. The powerful and mesmerizing message in Black Thought’s prose celebrates the origin of the Hip Hop movement and leaders who continue to express the power and diversity of the lived Black experience,” he said.

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Kevin Gates Speaks On Kobe Bryant’s Passing And Freestyles Mid-Story

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In a new interview with Big Boy’s Neighborhood, Kevin Gates shared a story of where he was when Kobe Bryant tragically passed away. Furthermore, he spoke of the negativity he felt in the air on that day before the news broke. However, many raised eyebrows at Gates as he freestyles in the middle of his story. Still, the Louisiana native shared a chilling account of January 26, 2020. Moreover, the NBA star and his 13-year-old daughter Giana tragically passed in a helicopter crash. While his loss continues to sting, this is one of many testimonies that kept and will continue to keep his spirit alive.

PHOENIX, AZ – FEBRUARY 19: Kobe Bryant #24 of the Los Angeles Lakers adjusts his jersey during the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center on February 19, 2012 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Lakers 102-90. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

“The crash site [was] seven minutes from my house,” he expressed. “Rest In Peace the Black Mamba. This here going to Virginia, got a hundred keys in a black Honda (that’s the freestyle part). All of this was going on at the time. My nana came in. I told my tattoo artist- remember I told you? I said, ‘Man, I don’t feel like we should leave the house today. We just need to stay in today.’ She came right to the house. I hate to even say this, but that’s what happened. She came in the house and was like, ‘They say Kobe just had a helicopter crash.’”

Furthermore, Big Boy asked, “So you said ‘We shouldn’t leave the house before?” “Before that s**t happened,” Gates replied. “That s**t happened seven minutes from my house. Like, weird s**t like that always be happening to me.” Ironically, the 37-year-old previously called Bryant a “rat” before his untimely passing. Granted, it was nearly four years before the tragic incident, and he made those claims after Kobe’s last game. From what Gates said, he claimed that Kobe snitched on Shaquille O’Neal during Mamba’s alleged rape trial.

Regardless, those emotions and postures mean nothing in the face of the immense void the legendary Laker left behind. This year, millions of fans remembered his legacy on the anniversary of his passing. Moreover, they shared some of their favorite memories of his games, his character, and the joy he gave so many. As Kevin Gates and others reflect on his absence, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest on Kobe Bryant’s legacy.

Ace Hood Drops Off “Body Bag 6”

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In a few ways, it feels like more artists are trying to bring back that feeling of the mixtapes during the DSP era. Mixtapes provided fans with an unadulterated glimpse into each MC’s skillsets. Ace Hood’s Body Bag series, for example, became a fixture during the blog era. This week, he returned with a new installment.

Shortly after releasing “OMG (Freestyle)” over Lil Durk and Gunna’s collab, Ace Hood came back with Body Bag 6. The latest installment in the beloved mixtape series is a return to form for Ace Hood as he tackles some of the biggest beats in recent times. Not only does he come through with a rendition of “Virgil,” but he also takes on a few Future records like “Puffin On Zooties” and “Wait For You.” Additionally, he takes on Lil Baby’s “In A Minute,” and Bia’s hit record, “London.” Ace Hood is evidently in beast mode right now. Body Bag 6 indicates what he has in store for 2023.

MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA – JULY 08: Rapper Ace Hood poses in the front row at Faena Forum on July 08, 2021 in Miami Beach, Florida. (Photo by Arun Nevader/Getty Images for Art Hearts Fashion)

The rapper’s unveiled a slew of projects independently during his recent run. In 2022, he released, M.I.N.D which showcased a significant amount of growth and maturity since Mr. Hood. However, for the fans that followed his journey from the jump, mixtapes like Body Bag and Starvation captured his hunger. During a 2022 interview with HotNewHipHop, he said fans have been drawn to his hustle and his mixtapes have always embodied that energy.

“They always represented my pain and my struggle and really represented the things that I was struggling with,” he said of the Starvation series. “So I think, now, it’s important to share my light with my fans of what I’ve learned on the journey of figuring myself out in the space of survival, in a space of hustling and all of that.” Check out Body Bag 6 below and sound off with your thoughts in the comments.

  1. OMG (Freestyle)
  2. London (Freestyle)
  3. Gallery Depot
  4. Puffin On Zooties (Freestyle)
  5. Celebrate You
  6. Wait For You (Freestyle) Ft. Slim Diesel
  7. In A Minute (Freestyle)
  8. Oil Spill (Freestyle) ft. Slim Diesel. 

Ludacris Drops Crazy Freestyle On Instagram

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Ludacris just dropped a wonderful freestyle on his Instagram page, showing us once again that he’s still a top dog. Moreover, he uses the beat from “Adam and Eve” by Nas and Kanye West off of the New York MC’s 2018 album NASIR. However, Luda definitely puts his own spin on it with his Atlanta delivery and boastful wordplay. “Unconventional indispensable rhyme zone,” he begins. “Sky dweller, Rolex, f**k a time zone / My watch feelin’ like Pac, it’s all eyes on / And I’m the truth in the booth, get your lies on and go and put the fries on.”

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – JANUARY 15: Ludacris performs during halftime of the NFC Wild Card playoff game between the New York Giants and the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on January 15, 2023 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)

Moreover, this isn’t the first time that the Atlanta kingpin dropped a quality verse off the dome on the IG. In fact, a freestyle from last year contributed to a debate on what “is and isn’t” Atlanta. “I brought millions of dollars to the city / Now the whole world jack Atlanta / I was wondering if this was propaganda / To get more juice than Tropicana / Overheard this song, I was shooting a movie, I told them to stop the camera / To say, no matter what block Atlanta / No city can opp Atlanta / Ever since the South had something to say, nobody can stop Atlanta / They won’t top Atlanta / We don’t knock Atlanta / We got proper manners / But the whole world know we’ll cock a hammer.”

Furthermore, the 45-year-old’s skill and wisdom extends far beyond hip-hop, even in small ways. For example, he shared inspirational words from his hot tub on New Year’s Eve last year. “Cheers to 2023,” he shared. “Wishing everybody love, peace, happiness, and challenging y’all to do some new sh*t in the new year that you ain’t never did before. I love y’all. Cheers.” Also, he captioned the post with “Let The Past Be The PAST.” Furthermore, the much-honored MC also spoke recently of how his career moves into acting, however doubted, became fruitful.

“When you come into it as a rapper,” he told Las Vegas Weekly, “people have a certain idea about you in the first place. So you have to go hard to not be looked at as some form of your regular everyday character.” Regardless, check out Ludacris’s impressive freestyle above. Also, check back in with HNHH for the latest news and heat from Luda.

Meek Mill Returns With “Don’t Follow The Heathens” Freestyle”

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Meek Mill isn’t slowing down this year. The Philadelphia rapper blessed fans with a new freestyle on Friday titled, “Don’t Follow The Heathens.” However, he keeps it raw this time around, dishing bars from the floor of the studio instead of the booth. 

The airy production includes a soft, pitched-up vocal sample that Meek takes on with ease before leaping into an acapella performance. Throughout the record, he reflects on all that he’s accomplished and his glow up from his days freestyling on corners in Philadelphia. “Sittin’ in the Hills, countin’ up a mill/ Dirty North n***a, now I’m rich like Uncle Phil,” he raps on the new freestyle. “Fresh Prince of Philly in arenas like I’m Gill’.”

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – JANUARY 12: Meek Mill attend Rap Snacks Disrupt 2023 Feed The Soul: A Conversation On Culture, Community, Family and Creating Wealth at W Fort Lauderdale on January 12, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Ivan Apfel/Getty Images)

His latest freestyle earned significantly more praise than his celebratory bars over 2Pac’s “Hit ‘Em Up” he previewed this week. The rapper took to IG shortly after the Eagles secured their spot in the Super Bowl to diss the 49ers. However, fans didn’t necessarily think Meek’s freestyle was all that. Still, the release of “Don’t Follow The Heathens” freestyle proves that he hasn’t lost it at all. 

Meek’s teased new singles and freestyles via Instagram in recent weeks. Since the release of Expensive Pain, the rapper’s been on a mission to establish himself independently. Though it took time, he finally unveiled Flamerz 5 in late November, including freestyles over “Super Gremlin,” “Munch,” and “God Did.” 

Prior to the mixtape’s release, he hinted at releasing an influx of music throughout 2023. Though he said he had plans to release 10 mixtapes, he recently revealed that he’s aiming to drop a new mixtape each quarter this year. However, he’s yet to share a release date for his next body of work.

We’ll keep you posted on any more new music from Meek Mill. Check out the “Don’t Follow The Heathens” freestyle below. 

Quotable Lyrics
The Cosa Nostra, super ultra
I’m the capo callin’ shots, so they gon’ super soak ya
I just came from LAX, might think I’m doin’ Oprah
And still can hang out on the corner with the super vultures

Funk Flex Responds To J.I.D’s Freestyle Comments

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Funk Flex has responded to J.I.D’s recent admission that the New York DJ’s reaction to one of his freestyles left him “a little upset.” Funk Flex says that J.I.D is one of his favorite rappers.

J.I.D had been speaking with the Rap Radar Podcast when he revealed that he’s retired from freestyles. He explained that freestyling for Flex in 2017 was a “childhood dream.” However, Flex’s subdued reaction hurt him. J.I.D had freestyled over Screwball’s “F.A.Y.B.A.N.” and Biggie’s “Who Shot Ya?”

“That was a good time. Funk ain’t even understand what was going on,” J.I.D said. “He was kerfuffled, I was giving him something and he ain’t even get it. We might go back one day. I silently retired away from the freestyles because I was mad at Flex because he didn’t respond the way I wanted to.”

NEWARK, NJ – DECEMBER 14: FunkFlex performs onstage at the 2017 Hot for the Holidays concert at Prudential Center on December 14, 2017 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Manny Carabel/Getty Images)

J.I.D added that he will most likely make a return to freestyles at some point. “It’s another part of the art,” he said. “It’s another notch on your tool belt.”

Flex responded to the comments on Instagram: “DID YALL KNOW THAT @JIDSV IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE ARTIST?”

“WHO WANTS TO HEAR ANOTHER JID FREESTYLE?” he continued before adding: “WHOS YOUR FAVORITE ARTIST TO HEAR FREESTYLE?”

J.I.D commented on the post that it’s all “love” between them and that he’s willing to “run it back.”

While he’s avoided freestyles, J.I.D released his first studio album since 2018 last year, The Forever Story. The project featured Kenny Mason, EarthGang, 21 Savage, Lil Durk, Ari Lennox, Yasiin Bey, Lil Wayne, and more.

Check out Funk Flex’s post on Instagram below.

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J.I.D Stopped Doing Freestyles, Blamed Funk Flex

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Never forget that all the greatest rappers today started on the same hustle of proving themselves as anyone else. Sometimes, though, people don’t yet see what they’ll become down the road, or even what they’ve already achieved. J.I.D. explained how his appearance on Funk Flex’s Hot 97 radio show made him stop doing freestyles. Moreover, the “Surround Sound” MC said that he was frustrated with Flex for not reacting to his 2017 freestyle.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 20: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY) JID performs onstage during the 2022 American Music Awards at Microsoft Theater on November 20, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

Still, one can’t imagine the rapper who gave us The Forever Story failing Funk Flex. Most people can’t even imagine a 2017 J.I.D doing so. Regardless, the 32-year-old attributed a lack of awareness to the DJ’s original reaction.

“Funk ain’t even understand what was going on,” he expressed to the Rap Radar Podcast. “He was kerfuffled. I was giving him something and he ain’t even get it. We might go back one day. I silently retired away from the freestyles because I was mad at Flex because he didn’t respond the way I wanted to.

“It was like a childhood dream to get the bomb and I ain’t get the bomb or none of the hype, so I was a little upset,” the Atlanta artist continued. “But I think I’m gonna get back into the freestyle world just because it’s another part of the art, it’s another notch on your tool belt.”

Moreover, the Rap Radar hosts specifically highlighted one of his lines from the six-year-old freestyle. “You said the rhyme… something like ‘The doctor can’t see my pee like pterodactyl,’” they said. “Like, I ain’t never heard a n***a say ‘pterodactyl’ in a rhyme, this guy’s incredible!”

However, at least J.I.D didn’t close the door on spitting off the dome on a track, for interviews or otherwise. What’s more is that he talked about potentially doing DiCaprio 3 with DJ Drama. Another Gangsta Grillz production to look forward to, it seems.

Still, what do you think of J.I.D’s silent exit from freestyles thanks to Funk Flex and his 2017 reaction? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, come back to HNHH for the latest insights from your favorite MCs.

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Erica Banks Shows Out On Her “Gossip Folks” Freestyle

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Now that Megan Thee Stallion is moving on from 1501 Certified Entertainment, it’s been up to Erica Banks to “keep the lights on” for the record label’s female rap fans. Thankfully, she delivered all through 2022, and it looks like that energy is only gaining momentum into the new year.

Last June, the “Buss It” hitmaker shared her Diary of The Flow Queen project, complete with 13 titles. While she held her own on many of them, Bankroll Freddie joined in on “Nasty,” and DreamDoll and BeatKing came through for the most popular song, “Toot That.”

Erica Banks attends the VIP Red Carpet Screening of “The Dirty 3rd: Next Generation”on November 16, 2022 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images for “The Dirty 3rd: Next Generation”)

Since then, Banks has been keeping us entertained with several remixes, collaborations, and freestyles. We heard the TUA Remix of “The Best,” as well as her work with cupcakKe and Tweeday on “HDBG Shemix.”

Most recently, she teamed up with SMITH and Tay Money for “Poppin’ Them Tags,” amassing over 1.2 million streams on Spotify alone.

Fans are undeniably eager for a new full-length project from the 24-year-old. Lately, though, it seems her energy has been going toward crafting clever freestyles.

Early on Tuesday (January 17) afternoon, Banks dropped off her take on Missy Elliot’s classic “Gossip Folks.” Her confidence is evident in the accompanying music video as she raps lines like “Arrogant, bitch! I’m goin’ Tae,” and “Pull up in that pretty motherf*cker like a debut.”

Stream Erica Banks’ “Gossip Folks” freestyle on SoundCloud below. Afterward, tell us your thoughts on the Texas native’s latest work in the comment section.

Quotable Lyrics:

Don’t let the money make you
Cryin’ ’bout a n*gga, bitch, fake news
If I offer out a shot I’ll probably take two
Pull up in that pretty motherf*cker like a debut

Jim Jones Is “2 Million Up” On His New Freestyle

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Jim Jones is back in action with a brand new freestyle.

The Dipset rapper slid through on Jan. 10th with his latest offering, “2 Million Up.” The short offering marks his first release of the year and he’s evidently aiming to kick things off on a high note. This time, he takes on Peezy’s “2 Million Up” single and puts his own spin on it. Jim Jones’s storytelling abilities takes center stage as his undeniably smooth flow glides the instrumental. He details his come-up in Harlem and the chaotic lifestyle he led up while reflecting on the value of loyalty.

ATLANTA, GA – APRIL 22: Rapper Jim Jones attends “Breaking In” Atlanta Private Screening at Regal Atlantic Station on April 22, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Universal Studios)

Jim Jones has his foot on the gas after another eventful year in 2022. He kicked the year off with the release of We Set The Trends and later, dished out his new holiday-themed project, Jim Jones Presents: 12 Days Of Christmas. His latest project indicates that he has even more music in the stash that he’s preparing to unleash in 2023.

The rapper dropped off “GUNSHOTS” ft. BEAM in October. The song marked the first single from his joint project with Hitmaka, Status Update, which is due out later this year. So far, he hasn’t unveiled a release date but hopefully, it comes soon.

Press play on Jim Jones’ latest freestyle below. Did Jim Jones kill his new freestyle? Sound off with your thoughts in the comment section and check our recent interview with him here.

Quotable Lyrics
Watch bussed up, six-figures on my neck
Back of the club with some bitches gettin’ wet
N***as gettin’ right or n***as gettin’ left
Let me know if it’s up, ’cause my n***as gon’ step
If we locked in, I’m with ’em to the death
Comin’ back with a ref, gon’ hit ’em with a tech

Logic Takes Aim At Money-Hungry, Clout-Chasing Rappers On “Insipio”

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While Logic might be a polarizing figure among rap fans, he’s undoubtedly carved his own niche in the game. He emerged as a pivotal figure at a time when the blog and mixtape eras overlapped while the years that followed saw him reaching mainstream success. However, he’s worked to a point where he’s gained a loyal following who are attentive to each and every move, whether that’s his work in production or non-musical ventures.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – AUGUST 11: Rapper Logic performs at PNC Music Pavilion on August 11, 2022 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jeff Hahne/Getty Images)

This week, Logic returned back to basics with the release of his latest single, “Insipio.” On the record, Logic flexes his lyrical prowess, showcasing his double-time flows and coming at the necks of those who he believes are exploiting hip-hop. He addresses rappers who are constantly flaunting material wealth without delivering products with substance. At the same time, he takes issue with those who’ve abandoned their passion for the art in exchange for fame.

Clearly, Logic has a few things to get off of his chest surrounding the current state of hip-hop.

In 2022, Logic dished out numerous singles including collabs alongside Wiz Khalifa, Russ, DJ Premier, Exile and more. However, he also blessed fans with his latest project, Vinyl Days. It’s unclear what exactly he has in store this year but with a new baby on the way, we could expect that fatherhood will be occupying a large chunk of his time.

Check out the new song below.

Quotable Lyrics
I like the way that they jewelry be shinin’, nope
That ain’t the way to think about this rap shit
I’mma musician, I love the art
Shoulda never let you in from the start
It ain’t one man or another