Diddy has revealed that he will be receiving the Apollo Icon Award in Harlem during the Apollo Theater’s Spring Benefit on Monday, June 12. Discussing the honor in a video on Instagram, Saturday, Diddy explained that “The King is coming back.”
“Wassup Harlem, I’m coming Home,” Diddy said. “Monday, I’ll be there, getting that Apollo Icon Award. And you know it’s up. So if you in the city all the Harlemites, ya’ll know I ain’t got everybody’s number but I plan on seeing you, and drinks is on Diddy.”
NEW YORK, NY – AUGUST 29: Sean “Diddy” Combs Officially Opens Capital Prep Harlem Charter School on August 29, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Robin Marchant/Getty Images)
He added: “Yeah. The champ is coming back home. The King is coming back home. The son is coming back home. Harlem, Harlem, Harlem. I’m coming back home.” Plenty of fans congratulated the Bad Boy mogul in the comments section. One wrote: “LEZZGOOOOO. Congratulations! I definitely want to see this honor happen.” Another fan added: “Well deserved, one of the pioneers . Good , bad or indifferent. Still ICONIC.”
Diddy won’t be the only one being honored at the event. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar will also be receiving the impact award while Warby Parker will be taking home the corporate award. Gladys Knight, D-Nice, MC Lyte, Ray Chew, Spike Lee, Stout, and Wyclef Jean will all be making special appearances as well. Proceeds from the event will support The Apollo’s performing arts, education, and community initiatives. Check out a promotional video for the Apollo Theater’s Spring Benefit below.
On May 30th, Big L would’ve turned 49 years old. In honor of the iconic Harlem rapper, we’re looking back on the career and its impact in the hip-hop scene. As Eminem put it, “Take some Big and some ’Pac/And you mix ’em up in a pot/Sprinkle a lil’ Big L on top/What the f**k do you got?” If not for his unfortunate passing, there’s no doubt that Big L would consistently be on the shortlist of the greatest rappers of all time. Still, his legacy is one of a rapper’s rapper who was able to spar with any MC, bar-for-bar. During his short career, he released one album and a brief collection of singles. However, you would be remised to find him outside of the top 10 on all-time lists for a good reason.
Big L was tragically shot and killed on Feb. 15th in the area he famously referred to as “The Danger Zone” — 139th St. and Lenox Ave in Harlem. Named Lamont Coleman, he grew up as a relative outcast on his block, where violence and drug abuse grew rampant. Still, his aunt, Gilda “Pinky” Terry, raised him as her own son and ensured that he still experienced childhood. The family was just wealthy enough to occasionally travel, taking the kids out to places such as Walt Disney World in Florida. In addition, her outgoing personality was the host and star of Harlem block parties.
CHICAGO – APRIL 01: Rapper Big L performs at the International Amphitheatre in Chicago, Illinois on April 1, 1995. (Photo By Raymond Boyd/Getty Images)
Although Big L already had a penchant for rhyming since a young age, experiencing Run D.M.C. live was a game-changer. His older brother, Donald Phinazee, took him to the King Of Rock tour in 1985, which planted the seed for L’s own foray into hip-hop. Their mom eventually bought DJ equipment for Don and Big L, who would serve as the MC on the block.
As Damon Dash put it with Complex, “He was known as Big L the Rapper. He always was nice. He was the guy in Harlem that was the best rapper on Lenox. There wasn’t nobody else but Big L.” By Big L’s teenage years, that reputation had sprouted from the block to New York City as a whole.
While Big L was a mellow and introverted personality, he hit a creative lightbulb when he got on the mic. Jay-Z heard of his notoriety in the Harlem scene, even challenging him to a rap battle on the block. With the battle reportedly being a tie, it wasn’t long until major labels were calling about Big L. Without a mixtape or even a demo tape, he captured the excitement of managers by dropping verses in person. By 1992, he had signed a deal with Colombia Records, who also had the likes of Nas under their wing.
After releasing a slew of singles that depicted the realities of Harlem life amidst grim horrorcore production, Big L came out with his debut studio album Lifestylez Ov da Poor & Dangerous. The 1995 release was long overdue, as he was already a well-known MC at this point. Fat Joe went as far as to tell Vibe, “People can get mad at me for saying this, but he was the best lyricist at the time. He was a better lyricist than Biggie and Jay-Z. He just didn’t have the marketing and promotion. Let me go on the record and say that. It’s the truth.”
However, Big L was far more than exclusively a skilled lyricist. He was looking to steer the direction of hip-hop in a unique direction. After Columbia Records dropped him after his debut album, he began to explore going independent with the launch of Flamboyant Entertainment. The two parties parted ways due to “creative differences.” Still, what came after became an integral part of L’s story. Feeling that the genre was devolved into a repetitive sampling of hits and redundant subject matter, he had a steadfast vision of changing the landscape of hip-hop. In many ways, he was able to do just that while only releasing one non-posthumous album. He was able to identify new talent, proving his ear for talent was just as strong as his penmanship, as seen with the launch of Children Of The Corn — a group consisting of Big L, Ma$e, Cam’ron, Bloodshed, and McGruff.
He Was Murdered At Only 24 Years Old
Tragically, Big L was murdered in his native Harlem neighborhood on February 15, 1999. Gerard Woodley, one of his childhood friends, was arrested for the crime. However, he would later be released due to a lack of evidence regarding the drive-by shooting. Nearly 17 years after the shooting, Woodley himself was shot and killed. While there’s a great deal of controversy regarding the slew of tragedies, there is no doubt that rapper Big L’s death at the mere age of 24 cut one of the greatest hip-hop careers to date brutally short.
“Big L was that n***a,” Jadakiss began during the interview. “I don’t like that they gave him his flowers after he was dead. They should have gave them [his flowers] when he was here. but, I guess it was too much going on. Or, just how the world is.” The iconic New York rapper was shot and killed in Harlem back in 1999 at 24 years old. He released just one studio album during his lifetime, Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 03: Jadakiss of The Lox performs onstage during Verzuz: The Lox Vs Dipset at Madison Square Garden on August 03, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
“But, Big L was one of the first — Big L, when we were still trying to get a deal and we hadn’t met Puff yet — we were downtown on 139th getting some weed from Buzz Me In, the old spot that was there and he [Big L] was in front of the fried chicken spot,” Jadakiss explained. “SP got out and him and SP got into a battle — a furious one. We got cool with him after that — once we found out about Children of The Corn and all that. Big L was already famous. He was one of the first young dudes to make it. Once again shout out to Digging in the Crates for seeing the talent in him way back when he was a youngster.”
Jadakiss was joined by his father and his son for the episode of Drink Champs. The group discussed analog vs. digital music, controlling piracy in the digital era, owning masters, and more. Jadakiss recently announced that he’s working on two albums that he intends to release later this year. He talked about the upcoming efforts during an interview on Sway’s Universe, earlier this month. Check out his appearance on Drink Champs below.
ASAP Rocky boasts a deep catalog of songs that capture the evolution of his sound. Beginning his career as a part of the A$AP Mob, the Harlem-based prospect first blew up after releasing “Peso” in summer 2011. Two years prior, Rocky described being a young man in Harlem involved in the streets and the fashion world. He began making songs along with his childhood friends with the goal of getting them out of their unsustainable lifestyle.
Approaching five years since his last studio release, fans are beginning to wonder when we’ll be hearing his next studio album. He released “Same Problems?” in January while rumors have been circulating that the track launches the rollout for Don’t Be Dumb — the rumored title of his next project. However, we haven’t heard anything from Rocky in the three months since. “Same Problems?” was one of his most introspective cuts to date, with euphoric synths wearing the influences of Kid Cudi. Before the anticipated rollout of his next album, we figured we’d take a look at the 7 best songs in ASAP Rocky’s catalog.
8. “Praise The Lord (Da Shine)” (2018)
Featuring British MC Skepta, “Praise The Lord” is ASAP Rocky’s most commercially successful song to date. The Skepta-assisted record serves as the third single off of Testing. It marked the third collaboration between the two artists. In an interview with Genius, Rocky discussed “smoking in the studio” with Skepta when he first heard the beat. Similar to tracks such as “Lord Pretty Flacko Jodye 2,” Rocky is reflecting on his massive success. He states, “Locked and loaded, diamonds glowin’/ chart-climbing on ’em.” In addition, Rocky provides motivation to think outside of the box no matter their circumstances. He gives a shoutout to people with the “game plan” and “escape plans,” urging them to “create, explore, expand, [and] conquer.”
7. “Sundress” (2018)
“Sundress” represented a sharp turn in Rocky’s career, for the better. Produced by Kevin Parker (predominantly known as Tame Impala), the track came from left field compared to the grimy bangers that Rocky’s released in the past. A psychedelic blend of indie-rock and hip-hop, fans have been hoping he’ll release a full project that parallels this sound ever since. In fact, this might be the case with his new project. “Same Problems?” is far more melodic, making it relatively similar to “Sundress.”
6. “Peso” (2011)
“Peso” put ASAP Rocky on the map. The lead single for Live.Love.A$AP, the track transcended Rocky from the streets of Harlem and into the limelight. He told the New York Times, “New York didn’t respect me until ‘Peso.’” Even though he was very much focused on breaking out, he didn’t use this as an excuse to formulate a generic sound. Right off the bat, Rocky aspired to push the boundaries in hip-hop. “Peso” is a song that very much mirrors the environment that ASAP Rocky grew up In. He captured Harlem’s flamboyant essence with fashion-forward bars, along with an analysis of capturing the flamboyant essence of Harlem.
5. “Lord Pretty Flacko Jodye 2” (2015)
“Lord Pretty Flacko Jodye 2” is a definitive banger of the past decade. Featuring paranoia-inducing synths and menacing bass, Nez & Rio come through with a simplistic approach to the overall production. However, Rocky rides the beat with high-energy and technical proficiency. Still, the brief runtime of the records left fans wishing for an extended version. An anthem through and through, Rocky portrays himself atop the mountain of MCs.
4. “r – Cali” (2013)
Created for Grand Theft Auto V, “r – Cali” provided ASAP Rocky with his first opportunity to create a song specifically for a video game. Anyone who knows Grand Theft Auto will know that the soundtracks are a hallmark aspect of the franchise. “r – Cali” would become one of the most well-known songs in GTAV, perfectly fitting the fictional Los Santos setting.
3. “Holy Ghost” (2015)
One of ASAP Rocky’s more underrated songs, “Holy Ghost” is the intro of AT.LONG.LAST.A$AP. In the song, Rocky details his hesitancy towards organized religion while also reflecting on his own spirituality. At the same time, he’s pleading for his corrupted soul to be saved. It’s one of his more narratively damning songs to date. The melancholy guitar strings add a unique element to “Holy Ghost,” thanks to DJ Khalil and Danger Mouse’s production.
2. “F**kin’ Problems” (2012)
“F**kin’ Problems” is an iconic track in Rocky’s catalog. Featuring Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and 2 Chainz, the headlining heavy hitters in rap came together for a generational anthem. ASAP Rocky cedes much of the song to his contemporaries, solely delivering one verse on the front end. However, his ability to stand his ground with Drake and Kendrick solidified him as one of the most talented MCs out of his generation.
1. “Canal St.” (2015)
“Canal St.” contains one of the best beats that ASAP Rocky has ever flowed on, thanks to the sample of Bones’ “Dirt.” Canal Street is a famous crosstown street in Lower Manhattan, New York City. Best-known for its expression of the arts and spots such as Chinatown, Rocky claims to have copped two of his gold chains from Canal Street. In fact, he’s referenced the street multiple times in other songs. Rocky’s relationship with Canal Street likely changed significantly throughout his life. Once a place where he couldn’t afford anything, he now walks down the street as the wealthiest person there. He references this on the track, stating, “I went from roaches on my bump to red brooches on the cuff of my tux.”
With winter well behind us, we’re now in the prime travel season. Aside from hitting up all the upcoming festivals (Coachella anyone?), you’re going to want to make time this year to hit up the places that make for great travel destinations year-round, like New York City. With a city as iconic as NYC, it can be tough to figure out where to go and what to do, which is why we reached out to electronic music producer and DJ Austin Millz. Millz calls the legendary neighborhood of Harlem home and is currently reshaping the sound of the city that raised him.
“Harlem was instrumental in my childhood and my upbringing. It raised me and I’m truly a product of my environment,” says Millz, “From taking the A train to and from school to hanging with my friends in the neighborhood, the memories are endless.”
Millz is known and beloved for his unique sound, which combines all of the best elements of soul and dance music. His latest single Freeway serves as the perfect early spring and summer bop to help usher in those warm weather vibes. Featuring vocals from Estelle, Freeway is four nice and tight minutes of dance floor pop perfection as Millz provides Estelle with a driving beat and lush synths that serve as the perfect sound for her cool and breezy vocals.
As the title would suggest, Freeway is ideal driving music, and naturally, ideal travel music. It’s impossible to watch the video for the single and not want to hop in a car and drive wherever the road takes you. Freeway is set to appear on Millz’s forthcoming EP, Breathwork, which will also feature collaborations with Sabrina Claudio and a tour stop at this year’s Coachella. Give it a listen and check out Millz’s exclusive guide to his favorite Harlem hangouts and food spots below.
The first thing someone should do when visiting Harlem is go to 125th Street! That’s the mecca right there. You can experience everything from fashion to music to all kinds of people. You can really feel Harlem at its core on one two five.
It doesn’t get much better with food in Harlem. I’ll give you my favorite three at the moment. Famous Fish on 145th Street — I’ve been going to this fish staple for as long as I can remember. At first, I took this place for granted but as I traveled the world and my food palette increased, this place still remains up there on my list. It’s just a place where you know you can expect quality food. I can guarantee every Friday this place gets so packed that the line goes through the door and wraps around the street. I get the classic fish & chips, sometimes even with shrimp.
Ricardos Steak House on the East Side is a place I’ve gone to since its opening. It’s a place where I go and can expect to hear good music and have delicious food. From the appetizers to the main course, you can leave satisfied and this place feels like Harlem from the inside out.
If I want some classic soul food, I go to Charles Country Pan Fried Chicken. Now, this place is fairly new but it’s already on my list of best soul food in Harlem, and that’s saying a lot because there’s tough competition. Soul food and Harlem are synonymous.
Over the years places have come and gone in Harlem in terms of places to party, but Harlem does come alive at night. There’s a place called Shrine where you can always have a good time and dance. And if you’re into jazz, Ginny’s Supper Club is the place.
My favorite breakfast spot in Harlem is called Jimbos. You can find Jimbos in every 10/15 block radius in Harlem. It’s a diner but the food here is immaculate. They know how to do breakfast well and also the cheeseburgers too. You really can’t go wrong here.
Where To Escape: Central Park
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My favorite getaway spot in Harlem would have to be Central Park. Taking walks in the park and just going through nature helps me decompress and reset when needed.
The best late-night food spot is Hajjis on 110th Street. This is a Harlem staple for one reason and one reason only. This is the home and creator of the beloved and world-renowned meal we call the Chopped Cheese. If you don’t know what a Chopped Cheese is, you’re going to have to Google it. Harlem is the place where the Chopped Cheese was invented and it was created right here at this spot called Hajjis. If you know, you know.
What You Need To Do Before Leaving: Visit The Apollo Theater
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One thing everyone visiting Harlem must do is attend a night at The Apollo. It’s one of the world’s most famous theaters that’s so rich in history, and I think everyone should experience it if coming through Harlem.
Dave East’s recent musical output has been a firm reminder of why he was one of the most compelling artists out of New York City at one point. During his mixtape run, he earned a glowing co-sign from Nas and later signed a deal with Mass Appeal. At a time when Soundcloud rap was the hype, Dave East became the response to those who felt lyricism was a dying art form. And though he wound up pivoting towards TV and film after his debut album, his latest releases have indicated that he only gets better with time.
Over the weekend, the Wu-Tang: The American Saga actor emerged with some brand new heat. Dave East shared his latest single, “Above Water,” this weekend, which pairs his vivid storytelling and suspenseful production to provide motivation for the masses. Across the song, East delves into his delicate balance between rap stardom and the streets that he came up in, while also reflecting on his daughters and their future. Dave East’s honesty in his penmanship remains one of his best attributes in the game and “Above Water” is an exemplary showcase of that.
Dave East Provides Hope On “Above Water”
Dave East has undoubtedly been active over the past few months. However, with the Wu-Tang show officially wrapped up, the rapper could have his next studio album coming soon. Last year, the rapper unloaded two projects – HDIGH and Book Of David– while delivering a slew of guest verses and loose singles, along with East Mixes. Hopefully, Dave East be coming through with a new body of work in the coming months.
Though he hasn’t shed too many details surrounding the project, it seems like we could anticipate a collaboration with J. Cole. During the red carpet for Wu-Tang: The American Saga debut, he explained how Cole put a battery in his back. “I took a lot from that,” Dave East said. “Just his whole energy, you know what I mean? For him to be who he is at the level he’s at and give me that game like that, give me that little bit of advice just to help my own shit out.” Check his new song below.
Quotable Lyrics They tryna trick us out our spot, can’t let a lane provoke you Just tryna walk the righteous path, it’s like an angel chose ’em You can’t control ’em, they can’t fold ’em, this forever rollin’ For all of our homies that ain’t make it, y’all my motivation
In the world of celebrity relationships and marriages, breakups and divorces obviously aren’t all that uncommon. While they’re undeniably emotionally tumultuous to navigate, several famous women have been showing us lately that the end of a romance doesn’t mean life isn’t worth living. Among them are Kim Kardashian and Nia Long. Recently, Meagan Good also joined the ranks. She looked absolutely stunning as she graced the pink carpet last night.
The 41-year-old stepped out for the season two premiere of Amazon Prime’s Harlem series. In the show, the California native stars alongside Jerrie Johnson, Grace Byers, and finally, Shoniqua Shandai. The group plays four ambitious best friends navigating life, personal relationships, and career growth.
The show has quickly become a fan favourite on the streamer. Season one previously arrived in December of 2021. To kick off 2023, the latest edition landed on Thursday (February 2).
Along with the episodes making their way onto Prime yesterday, Good also hit the town with her co-stars to celebrate. For her big night out, the Day Shift actress donned an all-white outfit. It was complete with thigh-high snake print boots and a curve-hugging dress complete with several cutouts.
At this time, Meagan hasn’t posted any photos from the event on her own Instagram feed, but those are sure to come later.
Several have already been circulating online thanks to paparazzi snaps, many of which show Good grinning from ear to eat, her toned abs on display beneath her sultry outfit of the night.
Meagan Good attends Prime Video’s “Harlem” Season 2 Exclusive Los Angeles Screening on February 02, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Arnold Turner/Getty Images for Prime Video)
Apart from her good looks, Meagan’s divorce from Devon Franklin has also been keeping her name in the headlines over the past year. The couple finalized their settlement in April of last year, and just last month, the actress revealed that Whoopi Goldberg was one of her famous friends who had some advice to offer the starlet.
Read what The View host had to say to Good here, and let us know if you’ll be watching season two of Harlem on Amazon Prime below.
