Hip Hop Community News Archives

Kesha Changes ‘Tik Tok’ Lyrics to “f*** P. Diddy” at Coachella in Wake of Recent Allegations

April 15, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Kesha is waking up feeling a little different these days than she did in 2010. In light of the recent allegations against Sean “Diddy” Combs (formerly “P. Diddy”), Kesha (who made her appearance alongside Reneé Rapp during the first weekend of the iconic music festival) made a major change to her famous line in the song ‘Tik Tok’ replacing “wake up in the morning feeling like P. Diddy” to “wake up in the morning like f*** P. Diddy.” She also held up her middle finger while doing so.

Kesha also doubled down on her sentiment on Instagram, where she shared a clip of the now-viral video as well as a series of photos from her Coachella experience along with the caption “WAKE UP IN THE MORNING LIKE FUCK P DIDDY” accompanied by two heart emojis.

Last month, Combs’ homes were searched by the Department of Homeland Security as part of a federal investigation into human trafficking and drug crimes. Combs has also been accused of sexual misconduct in five separate lawsuits. He has denied all of the allegations.

In 2014, Kesha sued her former producer Dr. Luke, alleging that he drugged and sexually assaulted her in 2005, as well as physically and verbally tormented her and made threats against her and her family. He countersued for defamation. The case was settled in 2023.

The post Kesha Changes ‘Tik Tok’ Lyrics to “f*** P. Diddy” at Coachella in Wake of Recent Allegations first appeared on The Source.

The post Kesha Changes ‘Tik Tok’ Lyrics to “f*** P. Diddy” at Coachella in Wake of Recent Allegations appeared first on The Source.

Hip Hop Veteran Ja Rule and Pencils of Promise Break Ground for School In Ghana

April 12, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Yesterday marked a significant milestone in the journey towards global education as Hip Hop icon Ja Rule, in partnership with Pencils of Promise (PoP), spearheaded the Jeff and Aisha Atkins Groundbreaking Ceremony at the Nuaso Anglican Basic School in Ghana. This collaborative effort between Ja Rule (Jeffrey Atkins), his wife Aisha, and PoP showcases their shared commitment to supporting quality education for children worldwide.

The event, held in the Nuaso community in the Eastern region of Ghana, celebrated the groundbreaking of new school facilities aimed at providing safe and conducive learning environments for primary school students in grades K-6. The Nuaso region has long grappled with inadequate and unsafe learning conditions due to makeshift classrooms. In response, PoP and Ja Rule joined forces with the local government and community to initiate the construction of new school facilities, with the Nuaso community contributing through labor and materials.

The ceremony commenced with an opening prayer by religious leader Venerable Kofi Obeng Ofosu, followed by a warm welcome statement from Municipal Education Director Mr. Samuel K. Tettey. PoP CEO Kailee Scales delivered an inspiring speech, highlighting the organization’s global impact on education and its focus on collaborative community development and empowerment. Ja Rule expressed his personal commitment to the cause, emphasizing the importance of creating educational opportunities for children worldwide.

“Many children in rural parts of the world experience significant barriers to their basic human right to primary school education. PoP is so proud to partner with Ja Rule and Aisha Atkins in our shared commitment to help ensure every child has access to the safe, healthy and engaging school experience they deserve,” said CEO Kailee Scales.

Freeman Gobah, PoP Ghana Country Director, shed light on PoP’s initiatives and achievements in Ghana, acknowledging the support of stakeholders in the 202 communities reached by PoP Ghana.

The event garnered attendance from education officials, government representatives, and local elders, including Lower Manya Krobo MP The Honorable Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, MCE Lower Manya Honorable Simon Kweku Tetteh, and Mark Okraku-Mantey, Deputy Minister of Tourism, among others. The program featured captivating cultural displays by students and community members, culminating in a traditional groundbreaking ceremony symbolized by pickaxes and shovels. Traditional drumming, speeches, and spoken word pieces in the local dialect added to the cultural richness of the event.

Ja Rule’s commitment to education is evident through his co-founding of L.I.F.E., a non-profit organization aimed at providing youth with extracurricular outlets and educational incentives. His personal pursuit of knowledge, exemplified by his completion of Harvard Business School’s online certification program for Entrepreneurship Essentials, underscores his dedication to prioritizing education over incarceration. In 2023, Ja Rule was honored at PoP’s 15th anniversary Gala with the Audacious Award for his role as a disruptor and advocate of social change.

The groundbreaking ceremony at the Nuaso Anglican Basic School serves as a testament to Ja Rule and PoP’s shared dedication to advancing education and empowering communities. It strengthens the collaborative relationship between Ja Rule and Pencils of Promise, furthering their mission to ensure that every child has access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Photo Credit: The EventPR

The post Hip Hop Veteran Ja Rule and Pencils of Promise Break Ground for School In Ghana first appeared on The Source.

The post Hip Hop Veteran Ja Rule and Pencils of Promise Break Ground for School In Ghana appeared first on The Source.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: Inside the Disney Dreamers Academy 2024

April 7, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Disney Dreamers Academy 2024: Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders

The magic of dreams coming true unfolded at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida as the Disney Dreamers Academy kicked off its transformative five-day program for high school students from across the nation. This year’s academy, now in its 17th year, welcomed 100 aspiring young leaders, hailing from diverse backgrounds and communities.

Day one of the Disney Dreamers Academy set the stage for an unforgettable journey, filled with workshops, mentorship sessions, and special performances. The dreamers were greeted with a rousing Welcome Celebration hosted by Tracey Powell and Princeton Parker, featuring special guests and musical performances that ignited the spirit of inspiration and empowerment.

As the program unfolded, dreamers delved into a myriad of enriching experiences. Career Academies provided students with invaluable insights into various fields, from culinary arts to entrepreneurship and Imagineering. Renowned figures such as Daymond John from ‘Shark Tank’ and Lanny Smoot from Walt Disney Imagineering shared their wisdom and expertise, empowering students to explore their passions and aspirations.

The first day culminated in a vibrant Magical Kingdom Parade, where dreamers took center stage alongside actress Dara Reneé, serving as the program’s “Dreambassador.” Joined by beloved Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Princess Tiana, the parade symbolized the celebration of dreams and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.

Day two of the Disney Dreamers Academy continued to spark creativity and curiosity among participants. From interactive workshops with actor Lance Gross to immersive experiences in puppeteering and artistry, dreamers embarked on a journey of self-discovery and skill-building.

Exploring EPCOT, the dreamers witnessed the magic of innovation and imagination firsthand, while a special dessert party added an extra sprinkle of joy to the evening festivities.

Supported by sponsors AT&T, Sprite, and Delta Airlines, the Disney Dreamers Academy exemplifies Disney’s commitment to fostering diversity, empowerment, and opportunity. Through mentorship, workshops, and inspirational sessions led by celebrities and industry leaders, the academy equips young minds with the tools and confidence to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

As the 100 dreamers continue their journey at the Disney Dreamers Academy, their experiences serve as a testament to the transformative power of mentorship, education, and the belief in the potential of every young dreamer.

Stay tuned for more updates from the Disney Dreamers Academy as these exceptional young leaders embark on their path to success and fulfillment.

The post Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: Inside the Disney Dreamers Academy 2024 first appeared on The Source.

The post Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: Inside the Disney Dreamers Academy 2024 appeared first on The Source.

Jaden Smith Leads Eco-Street Sport & Music Festival In Inglewood With Rich The Kid

April 3, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Today marks a milestone as KICKit World, the pioneering street sports festival set to debut in Inglewood on April 6, announces its dynamic partnership with multifaceted artist, humanitarian, and eco-warrior Jaden Smith, alongside his visionary ventures ‘JUST Water’ and ‘I Love You’ food truck. This groundbreaking collaboration extends beyond entertainment, aiming to enrich the community with free meals for kids at the festival and promote healthier living options, all set against the backdrop of the iconic 1500 Volume Studios. Adding to the excitement, Jaden Smith will host an exclusive masterclass at KICKit World, delving into the urgent matter of the earth and its environmental status, aligning seamlessly with April’s celebration of Earth Month.

KICKit World isn’t just another festival; it’s a transformative experience merging skateboarding, basketball, roller skating and vibeball with a vibrant outdoor celebration. Designed to foster community engagement, the festival features local brand activations, interactive workshops, and electrifying live entertainment, redefining the essence of communal gatherings.

Highlighting the festival’s commitment to empowering the community, KICKit World will host free RISE-ABOVE Masterclasses led by industry luminaries and influential figures, including WNBA sensation Essence Carson, local popular radio personality DJ Hed, and world-class cult following streetwear designer Desto Dubb.

Jaden Smith, a trailblazer in both entertainment and philanthropy, has consistently championed sustainability and community welfare. With initiatives like JUST Water, providing eco-friendly hydration solutions, and the ‘I Love You’ food truck, serving nutritious meals to those in need, Smith’s impact transcends the realms of celebrity.

“We are beyond thrilled to partner with Jaden Smith. Both our visions of how to inspire the next wave of visionaries perfectly align. KICKit World’s first annual festival promises an experience that transcends the ordinary, immersing attendees in a carnival of cultural exploration and high-octane entertainment,” declares Thorsten D. Meier, Founder of KICKit World.

In addition to the exhilarating sports and community initiatives, KICKit World will feature a star-studded evening concert, headlined by top artists such as Rich The Kid, Lakeyah, LaRussell, Social House, rising R&B artist Nakkia Gold, and surprise guests.

A portion of the festival’s proceeds will be allocated to its nonprofit partners, including It’s Bigger Than Us, Concrete Queenz, AirWest, and Hoopbus, further amplifying its impact on the community.

The post Jaden Smith Leads Eco-Street Sport & Music Festival In Inglewood With Rich The Kid first appeared on The Source.

The post Jaden Smith Leads Eco-Street Sport & Music Festival In Inglewood With Rich The Kid appeared first on The Source.

Source Exclusive: Rip Micheals teases Tracy Morgan, D.L. Hughley, and other Big Name Stars for the 12th Annual April Fools Comedy Jam

April 1, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Live comedy is officially back and if Rip Micheals has anything to say about it, better than ever as preparations are underway for the 12th Annual April Fools Comedy Jam. Comedy legend Rip Micheals sat down with the Source to talk about the upcoming show (taking place at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on Friday, April 5) which is a celebration of multi-generation comedy, hip-hop, and his health.

Straight away, Micheals explains that one notable thing about the show is that “it will be a mixture of hip hop and comedy.”

Micheals explains how he carefully curated a lineup of comedians from different generations, stating “we’ve got young and old and everything in between.”

Tracy Morgan is set to headline the show, which boasts a lineup including D.L. Hughley, Bruce Bruce, Nephew Tommy, Loni Love, DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, London Brown, Chaunté Wayans, Torrei Hart, Brian Hooks, Cocoa Brown, and more. Musical guests will include Young Jeezy, GloRilla, and more.

For Micheals, who has been very public about his health struggles, the show has a deeper purpose.

“Laughter is healing,” he says. “Like, my name is actually ‘Rip Mic Heals. I’ve always been blessed with the gift from God to make people laugh and forget about the things that they’ve got going on in life.”

Micheals also talks about the importance that comedy played during the pandemic and in the years after and how he has tried to use his comedy and shows as healing mechanisms, saying that he sees comedy a an opportunity to heal people.

“A lot of people suffered from depression and anxiety issues [during the pandemic]. And I feel that since then, comedy has been a vessel to allow people to come out and just have a great time- and combined them with music too. So overall, we want to just make people feel good again and are trying to restore people back to what they were and looking forward to coming out and looking forward to life and just smiling at the pain and everything that they’ve been through.

As for his current state of health, Micheals explains that his heart health is at about 12-15% and he is currently on the heart transplant list, giving a shout out to the staff at the Mayo Clinic and Long Island Jewish Hospital as well as all of his fans that have supported him throughout his health journey and continue to support his comedic endeavors.

Rip emphasizes that his condition is genetic and says “I want to emphasize the importance of regular checkups, especially if heart conditions run in your family. There are steps you can take to protect your heart.”

Micheals emphasizes that he expects this year to be one of the best Comedy Jams in history, not just because of the lineup, but because of the passion of all that are involved in it.

While most people with such a heart condition might relax after such a major event, Michaels shows no signs of slowing down, laying out a list of other projects he has coming up in the near future including a comedy special set he just filmed at the Apollo in February, the second season of Urban Eats and Treats, Fall Back in Love Tour and acting..

In conclusion, he states: “I’m going to give it all of my heart that’s left in me.”

The post Source Exclusive: Rip Micheals teases Tracy Morgan, D.L. Hughley, and other Big Name Stars for the 12th Annual April Fools Comedy Jam first appeared on The Source.

The post Source Exclusive: Rip Micheals teases Tracy Morgan, D.L. Hughley, and other Big Name Stars for the 12th Annual April Fools Comedy Jam appeared first on The Source.

Doja Cat claps back at Hair Critics Following Release of New Single

March 31, 2024 by newhiphopnews

If you don’t have anything nice to say, Doja Cat would like you to say nothing at all. That was the theme of the singer’s message on an Instagram live video following criticism of a photo of her natural hair, which she posted as the cover art for her new single “Masc.”

Doja posted the picture of her tight blonde curls on Instagram on Friday with a clip of “Masc” and a debut date of April 5, 2024.

However, some commenters decided to be unreasonably negative, comparing her hair to popcorn, wool, and carpet, among other x-rated things, prompting the “Paint the Town Red” singer to disable comments before taking to Instagram Live to address the mean-spirited posters.

“I’m seeing a consistent pattern of people in the comments section of people saying ‘Is my hair pubic hair? Is it carpet or is it sheep’s wool?’ People comparing my hair to sheep and pubes and carpet and popcorn and sh** like that….you gotta move forward…let’s grow, let’s stop. I can’t tell you what to do, I’m not your f*cking parents, you know what I mean? I don’t want to say too much.”

Doja spent about ten seconds in silence just shaking her head before ending the video.

“Masc” is one of several singles that Doja has teased in anticipation of her upcoming release of ‘Scarlet’ Deluxe Edition. Doja is also currently set to headline at Coachella, followed by a tour in the United Kingdom and Europe.

The post Doja Cat claps back at Hair Critics Following Release of New Single first appeared on The Source.

The post Doja Cat claps back at Hair Critics Following Release of New Single appeared first on The Source.

Chance the Rapper to Headline Benefit Concert for Non-Profit SocialWorks at Chicago’s Ramova Theatre

March 28, 2024 by newhiphopnews

SocialWorks, the youth empowerment charity founded by Chance the Rapper, is proud to announce a special benefit concert headlined by Chance himself. This one-night-only event, set to take place on April 13th at the historic Ramova Theater in Chicago, promises an unforgettable evening of music, celebration, and philanthropy. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference in the lives of Chicago’s youth while celebrating the birthday of one of the city’s most beloved artists.

This highly anticipated event promises an evening of exceptional entertainment while championing a noble cause. With Chance the Rapper headlining and DJ Oreo opening, attendees can expect an immersive musical experience that reflects the spirit of giving back to the community.

In addition to the main event, an exclusive after-party will be hosted, featuring DJ sets from Chance himself and his friends. This post-concert celebration offers a unique opportunity for guests to continue the festivities while mingling with the artists and fellow supporters of SocialWorks’ mission.

Tickets for the Benefit Concert for Chicago’s Youth are now available for purchase, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to SocialWorks. Tickets go live at 10AM ET on Friday, March 29 here: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/74615268/chance-the-rapper-chicago-ramova-theatre

The post Chance the Rapper to Headline Benefit Concert for Non-Profit SocialWorks at Chicago’s Ramova Theatre first appeared on The Source.

The post Chance the Rapper to Headline Benefit Concert for Non-Profit SocialWorks at Chicago’s Ramova Theatre appeared first on The Source.

Will and Jada Smith’s Charitable Foundation Reportedly Shutting Down Amidst Oscars’ Slap Fallout

March 26, 2024 by newhiphopnews

It’s been two years since the “slap heard round the world,” but the fallout continues for Will Smith– this time as his and wife Jada’s charitable foundation, the Will And Jada Smith Family Foundation, appears to be shutting down due largely to a drastic drop in donations following the 2022 altercation with Chris Rock.

An in-depth report by Variety found that tax records show that the organization’s revenue (which was funded largely by celebrity and corporate donors such as American Airlines and CAA) plummeted from $1,760,000 in 2020 and $2,138,660 in 2021 to $365,870 in 2022. As of 2022, the foundation did not employ any paid staff members. Publicly available financial records also show that the foundation had incurred over $3400 in bank overdraft fees in 2022. (All data was found in a ProPublica report, which is available to the public on their website.)

The foundation’s last social media posts were made on Instagram and Facebook in December of 2022.

The organization had also come under scrutiny for their significant donations to two smaller unknown charitable organizations- Rebecoming and World Rebirth Foundation, neither of which appears to have been an active organization for at least two years. (Other donations went to Big Brothers Big Sisters, the American Film Institute, and other well-known reputable charitable organizations.)

The only two major donors in 2022 came from an entity called “the WJS Trust” for $200,000 and Westbrook Media for $165,870.

As of Tuesday, neither Will nor Jada had made a public comment regarding the situation. Will, however, promoted his upcoming installment in the Bad Boys Franchise series (which is due for release in June).

According to the foundation’s website, “the Will & Jada Smith Family Foundation was founded in 1996 with the goal of making the world “better because we touched it.” Since then, WJSFF has invested millions of dollars and invaluable resources to accelerate the growth of initiatives that focus on deepening individual and collective empowerment.”

The post Will and Jada Smith’s Charitable Foundation Reportedly Shutting Down Amidst Oscars’ Slap Fallout first appeared on The Source.

The post Will and Jada Smith’s Charitable Foundation Reportedly Shutting Down Amidst Oscars’ Slap Fallout appeared first on The Source.

TikTok Bans User Who Told Immigrants To Steal And Squat In Homes

March 26, 2024 by newhiphopnews

In the ever-evolving landscape of social media, where influence can be wielded with a tap and a swipe, the power of a single viral video can sometimes leave lasting reverberations. Recently, a Venezuelan immigrant, Leonel Moreno, known as “Capichi” on TikTok, found himself at the center of a storm after a resurfaced video went viral, prompting widespread outrage and eventually leading to his ban from the platform.

In the now-deleted video, Moreno, with a following nearing 5 million, brazenly shared advice on exploiting squatter’s rights in the United States. “My people,” he proclaimed, “I’ve thought about invading a house in the United States because I’ve learned that there is a law that says that if a house is not inhabited, we can seize it.”

Watch the latest video at foxnews.com

The video quickly amassed over 4 million views before TikTok intervened, removing Moreno’s account from the platform. But the damage was done, sparking fury among Americans who viewed his message as a threat to their property rights and a brazen disregard for the law.

What further fueled the firestorm were Moreno’s other exploits showcased on his TikTok channel. He boasted about his infant daughter being an “anchor baby,” a term used to describe children born in the United States to non-citizen parents, often with the implication of securing legal residency for the family. Moreno also offered tutorials on shoplifting from retail stores, exploiting the vulnerabilities of return policies for financial gain.

Perhaps most shockingly, Moreno was involved in raising funds for a 15-year-old Venezuelan immigrant who had shot a security guard while shoplifting in New York City’s bustling Times Square. These revelations only served to intensify the backlash against him.

The issue of squatting is not a novel one in the United States, particularly in areas where housing affordability is a pressing concern. Recent tragic incidents, such as the killing of a woman by teenage squatters in her deceased mother’s apartment in New York City, have highlighted the dangers and complexities surrounding this issue.

Even high-profile figures like NBA star LeBron James have found themselves embroiled in the fight against squatting. In California, where housing prices soar and squatting is rampant, LeBron is building a multi-million dollar estate in Beverly Grove. However, just doors away, a $4.5 million mansion has fallen victim to squatters who transformed it into a lucrative party venue, pocketing over $30,000 a month in fees from party guests.

The response from local authorities has only added fuel to the fire. District Attorney George Gascon, who recently survived a recall effort, stirred controversy by asserting that “squatters have rights.” This stance has only heightened concerns among homeowners, including LeBron James, who find themselves facing an uphill battle against those exploiting legal loopholes for personal gain.

As communities grapple with the fallout from his viral video, it underscores the urgent need for dialogue and action to address the underlying issues of housing insecurity and property rights in America.

Thoughts?

The post TikTok Bans User Who Told Immigrants To Steal And Squat In Homes first appeared on The Source.

The post TikTok Bans User Who Told Immigrants To Steal And Squat In Homes appeared first on The Source.

Bianca Censori steps out with Ye Wearing completely see-through bodysuit

March 18, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Kanye West‘s wife is turning heads once again based on her choice of outfit (or in this case, lack thereof). On Sunday night, Bianca Censori was photographed baring it all in a sheer black bodysuit which left very little to the imagination.

Papparrazzi captured the pics of the couple as she and Ye stopped by a Raising Cane’s drive-thru in Burbank on Sunday. The sheer bodysuit was all black save for thin clear portions of plastic straps on the top. It appears she also may have had on thigh-high stockings under the bodysuit (or perhaps they were part of the piece itself). While the model had no problem displaying her nipples, she strategically used her cell phone to cover her genital area from the gaggle of press. At one point, an unknown male appears to try to hold up a coat or blanket to block the photogs from taking pics of the couple.

Bianca Censori steps out with Ye Wearing completely see through bodysuit on Sunday in Burbank

Ye, on the other hand, wore an all-black ensemble accentuated with Nike gloves (possibly sending a message to Adidas amidst his ongoing beef with the brand).

Kanye just completed his weekend performance at Rolling Loud, which drew criticism from many fans for the performance while there appeared to be a fight that occurred between a transgender individual and others during his performance as well.

The post Bianca Censori steps out with Ye Wearing completely see-through bodysuit first appeared on The Source.

The post Bianca Censori steps out with Ye Wearing completely see-through bodysuit appeared first on The Source.