halftime

Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Stage Stirs Storm Of Controversy Over Lil Wayne

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Pulitzer Prize winner Kendrick Lamar is embarking on yet another milestone as the first solo rapper to headline the Super Bowl LIX Halftime show for Apple Music. The announcement arrived last weekend in a commanding video showing Lamar in front of a large American flag. Of course, this isn’t the first time K.Dot has taken to the Halftime stage, as he previously joined the ranks of Dr. Dre, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and Snoop Dogg back in 2022. For fans, the powers that be made the perfect pick for the February 9, Black History Month performance. However, with the big game being hosted in New Orleans, the report of Lamar being chosen over hometown hero Lil Wayne ruffled a few feathers.

“Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date,” Lamar stated in a press release. “And I’ll be there to remind the world why. They got the right one.” It’s a confident statement coming from an artist whose career only continues to rise. The rapper has had a monumental 2024 with the “Not Like Us” Drake diss takeover that rocked the boat of Drizzy’s career. The Pop-Out concert in Lamar’s L.A. stomping grounds broke records and became the talk of the internet for weeks. Additionally, with 17 Grammys under his belt and respect as a culturally conscious rapper who sold out his The Big Steppers Tour, one would think that choosing him for the Super Bowl would make sense. Yet, Young Money came out on social media swinging with allegations that Weezy F. Baby was snubbed.

Do Hometown Artists Deserve Priority?

A quick look at the list of Super Bowl Halftime performances will show you that, more often than not, the artist isn’t from the hosted city. Sure, Dr. Dre was able to coordinate a tribute to his career at Super Bowl LVI in L.A., but that isn’t consistent in its history. It is true that Lil Wayne helped put Lousiana Rap on the map, carving out one of the most successful Hip Hop careers to date. His Tha Carter series have been hailed as untouchable classics, with millions of units moved, and one can’t forget his 27 Grammy nominations and five wins. However, there didn’t seem to be the same uproar in 2019, when Maroon 5 headlined Super Bowl LIII in Atlanta, leaving local Hip Hop artists in the dust.

“Kendrick Lamar is truly a once-in-a-generation artist and performer,” said Jay-Z. Five years ago, Roc Nation and Hov partnered with the NFL to enhance their social justice efforts and live experiences. For many, this means that Jay-Z has been calling the Halftime shots. “His deep love for hip-hop and culture informs his artistic vision. He has an unparalleled ability to define and influence culture globally. Kendrick’s work transcends music, and his impact will be felt for years to come.” It may be a sentiment that New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell aggrees with, considering she was born and raised in Los Angeles, herself.

The Young Money Meltdown

It didn’t take long after Kendrick Lamar’s news was shared that Hip Hop fans stormed social media with hot takes. Lil Wayne’s admirers swiftly defended the rapper and accused Jay-Z and Roc Nation of foiling his Nola Halftime opportunity. Then, Birdman chimed in with a message on X. “These n-ggaz Pussi @NICKIMINAJ @Drake @LilTunechi YMCMB. I’m make these n-ggaz respek us on Gladys.” He followed up with, “Hatin sh*t 4real.” It’s clear that he believes Wayne was pushed out of the running by nefarious higher-ups, and Nicki Minaj echoed those points of view in a lengthy rant of her own.

“Denying a young black man what he rightfully put into this game for no other reason but your ego,” The Pink Friday icon wrote. “Your hatred for BIRDMAN, Drake & Nicki got you punishing Lil Wayne?!?!!! LIL WAYNE!!!!!!!!!! THE GOAT?!!!!!!!!!!! Nola what’s good?!!!!!! Eminem stood firm on having 50Cent come out.” Amplifying her position, Minaj also referenced Colin Kaepernick, stating, “One n*gga took a knee The other n*gga took the bag. He gon get you ‘n*ggers’ in line every fkng time.” She also seemed to target Hov or Roc Nation by calling them “spiteful and evil.” It was a tirade that was shared near and far.

Artists Surface In Support Of Lil Wayne

Amid fans pointing out Weezy’s Rap GOAT status, his peers surfaced with support, as well. Master P is an icon from The Big Easy, and while he gave Lamar a “salute,” he suggested that Lil Wayne be a part of the Halftime show, too. “Well deserved, he’s one of the hottest music artists in the world and has one of the biggest songs right now,” Percy Miller said of Kendrick. “As Ambassador of Entertainment in the City of New Orleans I have to agree with the fans that @liltunechi #LilWayne should be a part of this celebration as well.” He added, “He’s one of the greatest Hop Hop artists alive, still relevant and he’s a New Orleans native. Let’s not miss this cultural moment in the South. Life is too short! We have to give our legends their flowers while they are here.” Social media users have debated the concept of Wayne’s recent relevance as opposed to his overall status in Hip Hop. The arguments have become heated as Hip Hop heads go toe-to-toe.

P wasn’t the only Louisiana artist to speak up. Boosie Badazz worked his caps lock button overtime when expressing his disdain for Lamar’s choosing. He used the hashtag “#idontrespectit” and pointed out that the Los Angeles Super Bowl’s Halftime show featured prominent artists from the city. “ALL YALL ACTING LIKE YALL COOL WITH HOW THEY PLAYING IT FOR THE SUPERBOWL SMH THE MOST CULTURAL CITY N THE USA( NEW ORLÉANS)ITS A SMACK N THE FACE TO EVERY HIP HOP LEGEND FROM LOUISIANA @MasterPMiller @BIRDMAN5STAR.” Juvenile also has a thing or two to say, even calling out NFL executives for exploiting the city without including the artists.

“I don’t see how the f*ck y’all don’t have Lil Wayne doing the halftime show,” the “Back That Azz Up” hitmaker said in a video. “Somebody that has a whole bunch of f*cking hits and somebody that really deserves it and somebody that can bring out multiple artists of all genres. Think about it.” Others like Cam’ron and Hurricane Chris have also expressed the necessity of Wayne’s inclusion.

Kendrick Vs. Wayne’s Live Performances Questioned

It’s unclear at this stage what Kendrick Lamar and Co. have in store for what is shaping to be another epoch-making moment for Hip Hop. Lamar’s live performances have been artistic, cultural staples with symbolism that causes millions to dissect the historical significances. We watched this unfold for months as every lyric of “Not Like Us” was analyzed, from podcasts to tweets to TikToks and more mainstream media. When we received the accompanying music video, it further pushed those discussions.

This point is currently being debated as people share comparisons of Kendrick’s live shows to what Wayne has to offer. The latter is dynamic as he brings favorites to the stage, hyping the crowd from beginning to end with songs imprinted in our minds and Hip Hop culture. Still, some have argued that as a headliner at the Halftime show, it wouldn’t have the same impact. While the call for some sort of Young Money reunion at the next Super Bowl rages, attendees of this year’s Essence Festival pointed out that something of the kind has already taken place. Essence Fest was hosted in New Orleans and featured a Hot Boys reunion involving Wayne, Birdman, Juvenile, B.G., and Mannie Fresh. It went off with a bang, but Kendrick Lamar’s defenders contest that Dot would highlight more of a conscious, cultural space that is needed in today’s climate. Fans also surfaced online with allegations that Wayne forgets his lyrics while performing; some saw that as a risk.

Lil Wayne’s Controversial Statements On BLM

For the most part, Lil Wayne keeps himself away from the hustle and bustle of internet shenanigans. It hasn’t kept his name off of trending topics lists, obviously, but there was a moment during a 2016 interview with ABC News’ Nightline, he made eyebrow-raising statements about the Black Lives Matter movement. He was asked his thoughts on the topic, and Weezy questioned what it even was. He said the concept of BLM “just sounds weird,” and became increasingly agitated as the line of questioning continued. Even T.I. came forward to speak out against Wayne’s remarks.

“I don’t know, that you put a name on such a — that’s what it was. It’s not a name; it’s not whatever, whatever,” Lil Wayne said. “It’s somebody got shot by a policeman for a f*cked up reason. I am a young, Black, rich n*gga. If that don’t let you know that America understand Black n*ggas matter these days, I don’t what it is.” He added, “I don’t know what you mean. Now, don’t come at me with that.” Elsewhere, “I don’t think I got to express this, but it’s who you are. You get treated accordingly. I don’t know nothing about that, what they’re talking about. I’m rich ass n*gga. Man, don’t get mad ’cause I’m rich and I don’t see none of that.” He then called himself a “gangbanger” as he continued to dismiss and distance himself from the movement.

This alone wouldn’t cut someone off from being a Halftime performer. However, with Roc Nation at the helm wanting to highlight social justice efforts in the NFL to recover from the league’s ongoing allegations of racism and lack of BLM support, one can only imagine if comments such as these may thwart those efforts. Further, Lil Wayne’s pardon from former President Donald Trump and his rumored support for the 2024 candidate has also made Wayne a target. Yet, being a Hip Hop MAGA supporter in and of itself also wouldn’t keep him from the Halftime stage. Who knows, we could get a Wayne or Young Money appearance in some way at next year’s Super Bowl. Whether or not that materializes remains to be seen, but Drake is probably somewhere bracing himself for the next “Not Like Us” season, this time, with an estimated 20 million people tuned in. It’ll be a doozy, no matter who Kendrick Lamar decides to share his spotlight with—but the BeyHive is hoping for a performance of “Freedom” with Beyoncé.

[via]

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Young Thug Dances To “Halftime” In Court, Makes His Lawyer Laugh: Watch

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It’s no secret that Young Thug has a solid relationship with his lawyer, Brian Steel. The criminal defense attorney has been representing the rapper throughout his ongoing YSL RICO trial, which is on track to becoming the longest in Georgia’s state history. Late last month, the two of them were photographed mid-fist bump, an image that many have since called fit for an album cover.

Today was day 73, and saw the state present the music video for Young Thug’s 2015 Barter 6 track, “Halftime.” They played the video in the courtroom, and evidently, Thug just couldn’t help but dance. In a new clip making its rounds online, the performer is seen vibing to the track, garnering the attention of Steel who looks on and laughs.

Read More: Young Thug’s “Hear No Evil” turns 6: Why The EP Is A Critical Entry In His Catalog

Day 73 Of Young Thug’s YSL RICO Trial

Of course, seeing the two of them in good spirits has fans feeling somewhat relieved, though the stakes in the case remain high. Young Thug could face a hefty prison sentence if the trial doesn’t go the way he hopes. He’s appeared confident, albeit worn down in recent court appearances, indicating that the trial’s taken its toll on him. The state’s lengthy list of witnesses would likely leave anyone jaded, and Thugger’s been behind bars for two years already.

Last month, the state paired down its list of witnesses, removing several including Lil Wayne. Earlier this month, however, prosecutors attempted to introduce clips of an alleged argument between Lil Wayne and Young Thug before a 2015 shooting involving his tour bus as evidence. Judge Ural Glanville denied the attempt, insisting that it can’t be used unless Lil Wayne testifies. Birdman, Rich Homie Quan, and YFN Lucci could also potentially be called as witnesses. What do you think of Young Thug and his lawyer vibing to his song in court? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

Read More: DJ Akademiks Flabbergasted By Being Mentioned During Young Thug YSL Trial

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Usher Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show Press Conference: 7 Takeaways

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It has been Usher overload as his highly-anticipated Super Bowl halftime show inches closer to materializing. The celebrated singer is days away from belting out his best hits on the coveted stage, and fans expect several surprise guests to help boost the performance. With a career that stretches back decades, Usher has delivered favorites that have defined several eras of music. Whether he’s stealing hearts with smooth R&B jams or getting the party started with club bangers, he’s amassed ongoing success that artists can only beg for. Moreover, this performance sets Usher in the history books as the first and only independent artist, thus far, to grace the halftime stage.

To catapult the already-swirling madness surrounding the event, Apple Music stepped in. Today (February 8), Apple Music shared the short film Where’s USHER, which hosts a score of 14 of the Grammy winner’s biggest hits. The visual is bolstered by several familiar faces, including Ludacris, Taraji P. Henson, Anderson .Paak, J Balvin, Wesley Snipes, and—last but certainly not least—Lil Jon. The elite group is seen trying to find Usher after losing him following a wild night in Sin City.

Additionally, Usher sat down with Apple Music Radio host Nadeska Alexis for the official Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show Press Conference in Las Vegas. He looked cool as a cucumber as he spoke about his upcoming, immense performance, also recalling a frightening moment when he thought he was going to mess up when he took to the halftime stage in 2011. Read through a few highlights of the conversation below, including his remarks on expanding businesses in Las Vegas, not wanting to be confined as only an R&B artist, and his secret Nickelodeon “confession.”

On Setting Himself Up With Success & His Apple Feature

I think I made it easy for myself when I decided to have like, features on songs that became hit records. That gave me the greatest point of reference. But here’s what’s beautiful, is that Apple has been following me throughout this entire process. So, we’re in the process of figuring out how we’re going to share it with you, break the internet by that conversation. There’s also, too, a documentary crew that’s been collecting all of the moments that have happened. There’s cameras around us at all times, looking at the process that we went through. You get a chance to see from the first moment that I got the call all the way up to the moment that I walk off the stage. At least that’s the idea.

But I am definitely, you know, I went through a lot of ideas of who I would have share this moment with me. And I do feel like the people who are gonna share it deserve just as much recognition for what they do in their careers, whether we have collaborated together or whether they’ve had moments of their own.

On The Snafu In His 2011 Super Bowl Performance

Oh, man. Oddly enough there was a moment that only I think I remember. My hand got caught in the wire that was holding me, like, 30 feet in the air. And I almost missed my first mark. I was like, ‘Oh my god, don’t let this malfunction cause me to miss something.’ But, that was one [memoy]. The second was, afterward, how amazing it felt to be in front of that many people and feel the energy. So much so, that it made me really passionate about eventually getting this moment that I’m getting to have. But it was really fueled by being able to be just, in that moment with the Black Eyed Peas.

On His Pride In Debuting Coming Home Album & Super Bowl Performance As An Independent Artist

I launched that album as an independent artist. And I will be, up until this day, the only independent artist who’s ever performed the Super Bowl Halftime Show. So, this is a beginning, this is a new beginning to me.

Las Vegas has been amazing for me. Having 100 sold-out shows in a residency and to have the next one, the crescendo, which is the Super Bowl with Apple. It’s really, really, really given my time here in Las Vegas an incredible button at the end.

On Not Wanting To Be Confined To One Genre

It’s nice to be in any category, but not to be categorized is what I’ve always hoped. That R&B as a trade and as a style, as a genre, as an emotion, as a spirit, be it being found through gospel music, jazz, rhythm and blues, blues in R&B. That it created all these other genres of music. We don’t understand how relevant R&B has been to the development of the industry that we have, and the artists and the creatives that have been a part that, that they didn’t get recognized either. So, I’m happy that R&B gets the stage on Sunday. I’m happy that R&B and rhythm & blues and the matter of what it is, as song and dance performers, it gets the recognition that it deserves. I’m honored. But I don’t want to be categorized as just an R&B artist.

On Connecting With Audiences Through The History Of His Catalog

I’ve tried so many things my entire career, and I’ve just managed to be able to gather people who celebrate my music and celebrate my experiences. And maybe they tie it to theirs. Maybe they got married to a song. Or maybe they fell in love to a song, maybe they made love to a song, maybe they celebrated and laughed and had an incredible time. Or maybe they cried, maybe they hurt, maybe had a chance to be confident in a way that they didn’t have before they listened to that song. That’s what R&B has been to me. And I hope that the rest of the world can celebrate in the way I celebrate it.

On His Future Entrepreneurial Plans In Las Vegas

I visualize in these next few years that there will be more opportunity to build here in Las Vegas. I love this city. You know, when I received the key, I started trying to open doors, trying to figure out ways to do more things that activate this immersive experience that I feel like I had for an underserved audience that want to have a certain experience, that enjoyed the curation of the world that I created when I was here in Las Vegas. Where does that lead me? I don’t know. Maybe it’s businesses, maybe it’s more shows, maybe it’s shows that I curate, maybe it’s festivals, like the Lovers and Friends festival. Or maybe it’s, you know, hotels. Maybe it’s a different idea and standard for an artist who came from this world and then created a business here in this town.

Usher Gives A “Confession,” But Not What People Expect

Can I give you a Usher confession? Specifically for Nickelodeon, right? We gonna keep it age-appropriate? Nah. It was always a dream of mine to be slimed as a kid. I watched it just like all of us in here. To get that green goop over my head was something that I really, I just wanted to be able to say I did. And by the time I finally made it to the Nickelodeon awards, they just didn’t do it anymore. I was like, ‘That sucks.’

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Lil Wayne Drops Hints About Wanting To Headline Super Bowl 2025 Halftime Show In New Orleans

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In the latest episode of Apple Music’s Young Money Radio, Lil Wayne left fans buzzing with excitement as he dropped some subtle hints about his desire to headline the Super Bowl 2025 halftime show in his hometown of New Orleans. During a candid and in-depth conversation with Tyga, the Grammy-winning rapper didn’t hold back in expressing his interest in taking the stage at one of the most-watched events in the world. With the Super Bowl set to grace the vibrant city of New Orleans in 2025, Lil Wayne made it abundantly clear that he envisions himself as the ideal performer for the halftime extravaganza. “Super Bowl in New Orleans is coming up too,” Wayne casually mentioned, seizing the moment to plant the seed of his aspiration.

“I’m from New Orleans; I’m just letting them know,” he added. He’s hinted at a potential call from the NFL to grace the grand stage. The prospect of Lil Wayne headlining the Super Bowl halftime show in 2025 brings forth a blend of hometown pride and musical catalog. Moreover, New Orleans, a city deeply entrenched in music and culture, would undoubtedly be the perfect backdrop for Lil Wayne to showcase his iconic repertoire to a global audience. Lil Wayne’s influence on the hip-hop scene and his contributions to the music industry make him a great candidate for such a monumental performance.

Read More: Lil Wayne Sued By Former Bodyguard For Alleged Assault & Gun Threat

Lil Wayne Is From New Orleans

 
 
 
 
 
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However, Wayne has been an artist who has consistently pushed boundaries, leaving a memorable mark on the rap landscape. A Super Bowl halftime show headlined by the New Orleans native promises to be a memorable celebration of not only football but also the rich musical heritage of the city. As fans eagerly await any official announcement from the NFL, social media has already lit up with speculation and excitement. The idea of Lil Wayne gracing the Super Bowl stage has sparked conversations about potential surprise guests, setlists, and the overall spectacle that the rapper could bring to the halftime show.

“If lil Wayne does the Super Bowl in 2025….. it’s up lol,” one person commented. “A Weezy halftime show would be ICONIC,” another wrote. “Nahhh we need that tunechi halftime show for NOLA would be iconic,” said someone else. Whether or not Lil Wayne’s hints materialize into a confirmed booking, the mere idea of him taking the Super Bowl 2025 stage in New Orleans is enough to set the entertainment world abuzz. As the anticipation builds, fans can’t help but envision a halftime show that transcends expectations. Would you want Weezy F baby to perform in NOLA for Super Bowl? Let us know your thoughts on HNHH!

Read More: Lil Wayne’s 2015 Tour Bus Shooting Referenced In Young Thug & YSL RICO Trial

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