Any avid hip hop fan can tell you there’s not many people who can touch this Bronx bomber on stage or on the mic. The Legendary MC KRS One recently spoke with Check The Archivez about his iconic rap career. Back when hip hop was still new, KRS-One was one of the architects in hip hop that went through many trials and tribulations for the artists that thrive in now. In the interview he talks about being homeless when his hit song South Bronx had been released. He recalls sleeping on the train and observing teens blasting the song while he unknowingly watched.
From the age of 16-21 years old one of the greatest rappers of our time slept around NYC while chasing his dreams that came to
Any avid hip hop fan can tell you there’s not many people who can touch this Bronx bomber on stage or on the mic. The Legendary MC KRS One recently spoke with Check The Archivez about his iconic rap career. Back when hip hop was still new, KRS-One was one of the architects in hip hop that went through many trials and tribulations for the artists that thrive in now. In the interview he talks about being homeless when his hit song South Bronx had been released. He recalls sleeping on the train and observing teens blasting the song while he unknowingly watched.
From the age of 16-21 years old one of the greatest rappers of our time slept around NYC while chasing his dreams that came to fruition.
Rapper Soulja Boy has been unapologetically raking in the cash since he stepped on the scene and he won’t let you forget it. In recent comments, the ringtone originator revealed the hefty fees he charges for features and shows. In the clip below, Soulja Boy can be seen flashing cash while telling fans on social media that a feature costs $1 million and a show will cost $100K.
“If you want a verse, it’s gon’ cost you a M,” Soulja Boy explained. “You want a show, it’s gon’ cost you $100k. You want an after party, it’s gon cost you 50 bands. We just turnt Texas up. This what it’s gon’ cost you. No cap. That’s just what it’s gon’ cost you.”
This isn’t the first time Soulja Boy has been vocal about his contributions to hip hop. Do you think $1 million dollars is a good price for a Soulja verse?
Curtis “50 Cent” Jacksons’ classic 2003 smash “In Da Club” has officially reached RIAA Diamond status. It marks his very first Diamond certification. The song has already garnered over 1.2 billion Spotify streams and 1.8 billion YouTube views on the music video. It averages 42 million-plus streams per week worldwide. Produced by Dr. Dre and Mike Elizondo, it concluded 2003 as the #1 song on the Billboard Hot 100 year-end chart.
“In Da Club” adorned 50’s blockbuster 9x-platinum full-length debut album, Get Rich Or Die Tryin’. The GRAMMY® and Emmy Award-winning Queens, NY rapper, entrepreneur, actor, and producer delivered an instant classic on his first try. The album arrived on February 6, 2003, and it immediately bowed at #1 on the Billboard 200. It capped off 2003 as “the best-selling album of the year” and saw him score a total of five GRAMMY® Award nominations, including “Best New Artist,” “Best Rap Album,”“Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group” for “Magic Stick” [with Lil’ Kim], and “Best Male Rap Solo Performance” and “Best Rap Song” for “In Da Club.”
Speaking to its enduring influence, Rolling Stone named it one of the “500 Greatest Albums of All Time,” while The Ringer hailed it as a “classic” in a detailed deep dive retrospective. Recalling the stratospheric #1 success of “In Da Club,”Stereogum proclaimed, “He was New York to the bone, but his music, thanks to a rare and impossible-to-replicate combination of factors, transcended the regionalism that’s always been a key part of rap’s power.”
Mariah Carey may be known as pop’s “Queen of Christmas,” but she also apparently knows how to get into the Halloween spirit as well, while joking about the upcoming Christmas season.
The songstress posted a jaw-dropping photo on her Instagram of her dressed as the iconic Jessica Rabbit, complete with a form-fitting red sparkly dress, long gloves, red heels, and of course….red hair. She simply captioned the photo “Happy Halloween! #notyet,” an apparent nod to the upcoming Christmas season, which has become synonymous with her 1993 hit “All I Want for Christmas is You.”
Mariah Carey Wows as Jessica Rabbit for Halloween, Teases Upcoming Christmas Season
As of 2022, reports estimate that Carey makes around $3 million each year from the hit, noting that her total earnings are upwards of $60 million from sales, plays, and sponsorships.
This year, Carey will be performing a Christmas-themed tour, titled “Merry Christmas- One and All!” iThe 16-city North American tour kicks off on November 15, 2023, in Highland, California, and concludes on December 17, 2023, in New York City.
On the last day of 2020 the world was shocked to learn that hip hop’s supervillain, MF DOOM had passed away 2 month’s prior on October 31st. Shock, disbelief and sadness spread across the community of fans, family and people who loved him.
My story with DOOM started in 2004. I was working on The Beautiful Struggle tour for Talib Kweli and DOOM was the opener. I was rushing around backstage when I saw him and Benn Grimm waiting to go onstage.
“You got a dutch?” I asked him, pushing past Benn who seemed like he was trying to block him. “Nah I don’t have one, he replied, flashing a smile of 18k gold fronts. At that moment, Kweli walks by and says, “Oh you met DOOM, this is my assistant Courtney Brown— Court, you know DOOM is from KMD?’
BB Kings Show in NYC
This was the beginning of a friendship that would forever influence my life. Not much long after our initial meeting we became road buddies and I came to know the author Daniel Dumile. After watching me problem solve on the road for Kweli, he asked me to work for him and his wife Jasmine once that tour ended. They both taught me how to navigate the business world as well as helped with my personal growth. DOOM was a teacher and to be in his circle you had to study. He would send countless 4 hour lectures and sign books that he felt were pertinent to my growth.
Onstage with Mos who loved DOOM
Once his mask was removed, he revealed he was thoughtful… full of curiosity, kindness and unusual talent. He treated me like a queen in an industry that took advantage of women. He didn’t act like a rapper because as he said that wasn’t even him. He would run errands, helped with my goals and always knew how to fix everything. He inconspicuously took the train from NYC in a snowstorm to Jersey Shore to help us pack up my granny’s 7 bedroom house for sale. Even though he just released his classic album MM…FOOD , he trooped through the snow walking from the train to our house in Neptune, NJ because no cars were available. We stayed up all night talking about everything under the sun as he meticulously wrapped heirlooms inquiring about each item.
I moved to LA to assist him as he worked on DangerDOOM. During that time we spent a lot of time finding inspiration for that album and hanging out with my best friend at the time Kelis and her husband, rapper Nas. One day after a bougie LA dinner I convinced them to come back to my hotel room where DOOM put on some beats and Nas began freestyling. This lasted nearly an hour. DOOM had his Special Herbs CD on him and it was a historical moment not captured on camera or recorded.
Eventually my job description grew as I became a part of his ‘entourage’ but DOOM was a villain and there was always more to be revealed. When I began writing he supported that too—demanding I write many of his cover stories including his FRANK 151 cover.
written by C. Boogie Brown
One day he instructed me to do an entire press day with what he called a ‘robot’ and later I found out it would be Benn Grimm. (He was full of surprises.) He told me not to let ANYONE in the room except the journalists for the interviews and the photographers to take photos. I was scared shitless. We were shooting a cover with a fake DOOM. I had on my best business ensemble and issued a lot of ‘no’s’ that day. We made it through that day until a woman who knew him and demanded to speak to him kept pressuring to enter the room.
Busted. We stayed up that night with him and Jas in Atlanta and me in New York writing the perfect editorial for Elemental Magazine who was pretty upset.
One of my first Editors gig.
He and I together composed the perfect words to explain his tactics. And Jas, always loving and fair, paid me handsomely for my work. They both respected my pen. We moved back to LA to work on MADVILLAIN 2 and that album is the greatest album no one has heard yet. Built off a lot of crazy experiences and real life situations he turned into songs, he put a lot of work into that record. Although he didn’t complete it, he felt masterpieces should not be rushed. One song we researched for weeks which came from a weird news story I told him about in New York. We laughed about it for nearly 2 hours before the intense research began. We called it the ‘monkey song’. He recorded a few songs with Ghostface during that time and he was one of the few rappers I could get to change lyrics which is why there are 2 versions of Angels.
“I asked him, “Why does GHOST say 3 white b****?”…
I could go on for eternity with stories, memories and lessons I learned from the supervillain. He was very strategic and placed things and people where he wanted them to be. He knew what he was doing. Many might wonder why I would reveal so much. DOOM often talked about not being here and of course I would shrug it off. He emphatically told me, “If I’m not here anymore, you better tell that story. I’d rather it be you then anybody. Villain!” Maybe one day, I will. Rest in Power DOOM.
Rappers Snoop Dog and Latto linked for their Musicians on Musicians cover shoot at the United Recording studios in Hollywood and Snoop offered valuable advice to Latto, as she embarks on stardom. He shared that this era of women are the first era to dominate music.
“What happened to your favorite rappers in the Nineties?,” Snoop asked. “Where they at? Most of them gone. I’m probably the only one that’s still around. It’s because of the things that they did or the business opportunities that they didn’t capitalize on. So you got to be a smarter businesswoman and say, ‘OK, the women are winning right now in the music industry.’ This is a first, for the women to be [in] the foreground.” However, he warned a message about potential rivalries. He warned, “You guys have to understand that here’s where the bullsh*t comes in. They going to make y’all fight each other. That’s what they made us do. They didn’t want us to join hands and say, ‘Hey, East Coast, West Coast, down South. I love your music.’ You from the South. I love your sht. Why I got to hate you from down there? That’s what they’ll put into y’all Kool-Aid.”
Latto responded with, “And we fall for the trap.” She seemed to agree with the divisive cycle in the industry. “But somebody got to be sharp enough to say, ‘You know what? It’s a business…” Snoop continued.
The Universal Hip Hop Museum just announced they will be officially changing their name to “The Hip Hop Museum.” The name change comes as part of the institution’s ongoing commitment to accurately reflect the essence and significance of Hip Hop culture and its global impact.
Since its inception, The Hip Hop Museum has been dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history and cultural significance of hip hop. As the official record of Hip Hop, the museum has taken pride in curating an immersive and educational experience for visitors from all walks of life. On Hip Hop’s 50th birthday, this name change represents an evolution while staying true to the museum’s core mission.
“After careful consideration and discussions with members of the Hip Hop community, as well as our supporters, we have decided to simplify our name to ‘The Hip Hop Museum,’ said Executive Director Rocky Bucano. “We believe this change will make us more accessible and recognizable to our diverse audience, from dedicated hip hop enthusiasts to casual visitors.”
The Hip Hop Museum will continue to honor and represent the myriad of voices and stories that have contributed to the global phenomenon that is Hip Hop.
As The Hip Hop Museum embarks on this new chapter, the institution will continue to expand its exhibits, events, and educational programs, providing an inclusive platform for artists, historians, educators and enthusiasts to engage with and celebrate the evolution of Hip Hop.
VH1 and Ncredible Entertainment are ready to captivate audiences nationwide with a new docuseries, “Nick Cannon Presents: Future Superstars.” Taking viewers on a coast-to-coast journey during the Future Superstars Tour 2023, presented and hosted by entertainment mogul Nick Cannon, the docuseries showcases the remarkable talents of nine emerging artists: Big Boss Vette, DW Flame, Hitman Holla, JD McCrary, Jilly, Klondike Blonde, Pop Money, Symba and Trae Two Three. These artists are on the cusp of making their mark in the music industry, and each half-hour episode delves into their unique musical gifts and personal journeys. The series culminates with a finale that looks back at the artists’ progression throughout the season. “Nick Cannon Presents: Future Superstars” premieres with back-to-back episodes on VH1 on Tuesday, November 21 starting at 9 PM ET/PT.
Globally recognized for his talent-spotting acumen and industry expertise, Nick Cannon will serve as the ultimate guide in this enthralling behind-the-scenes exploration of up-and-coming musical talent. Leveraging his track record as an identifier of talent before they attain household recognition, Cannon will interview these emerging stars while offering insightful mentorship as they strive to become the industry’s next big sensations.
“VH1 has a legacy of celebrating the magic of music and the brilliance of artists, from established icons to rising stars,” said Tiffany Lea Williams, Executive Vice President, of Unscripted Programming and Development of BET Media Group. “Now, with ‘Nick Cannon Presents: Future Superstars,’ we’re about to add a thrilling new chapter to that tradition and introduce you to a new wave of musical talent. We’re proud to collaborate with Nick Cannon and Ncredible Entertainment again, and look forward to bringing viewers an engaging and entertaining docuseries highlighting these future superstars.”
“I have created a platform for the next generation of superstars,” said Nick Cannon. “Within this docuseries, you go on a journey with each artist as they are given the superstar starter kit with everything from artist development, publicity, touring, and mentorship to succeed in the competitive music industry. You get to see the raw behind-the-scenes footage of what it takes to be a star. I am excited to have VH1 as a partner because they have always been one of the curators of the culture.”
A source close to Rihanna is shutting down online rumors that she singer has come to a new agreement with Live Nation. The original report came from the Daily Mirror, noting Rihanna was going to tour in 2024 and 2025 in a nearly $40 million deal with Live Nation.
According to Billboard, the insider stated, “no tour has been confirmed for Rihanna” and there are no touring plans on the books for the singer in 2024. In addition, there are no venue holds for a potential Rihanna tour.
Another rumor running rampant with Rihanna is a potential engagement to A$AP Rocky.
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky hit the streets to celebrate the fashion killa’s birthday. What caught the eyes of many was a flashy ring on her hand, which has brought up questions of a possible engagement.
Rihanna popped out in a denim look with a tied white button-up, but on her ring finger was a ring, which Billboard describes as a “humongous” and “jewel-encruasted.”
Rihanna nor A$AP have addressed the ring, leaving speculation to run rampant as they have not issued a statement.
Rihanna Flashes Giant Ring While Celebrating A$AP Rocky’s Birthday in NYC https://t.co/jDAauGxL1s
A$AP Rocky celebrated his birthday on Tuesday (Oct. 3) and went with his bae and the mother of his children, Rihanna, on a trip to Carbone. Leaving the kids at home, Rihanna stunned in all black and flexing in some heeled leggings. Rocky left in a blazer with a shirt and tie nestled under a grey sweater.
Global Art Galleries and Saatchi Art Set the Scene for Milestone Exhibition
In a groundbreaking artistic tribute to the monumental 50-year journey of Hip-Hop, renowned artist Agent X is set to unveil a captivating collection that transcends time, culture, and creativity. Birthed in the heart of the Bronx by DJ Kool Herc on August 11, 1973, Hip-Hop has evolved into a global phenomenon, reshaping societies and establishing itself as a multibillion-dollar cultural force.
Agent X’s latest art collection, a celebration of the Hip-Hop legacy, is poised to make history. Collaborating with Saatchi Art, the world’s premier online art gallery, the exhibition will receive global recognition and a distinguished platform. This noteworthy collection doesn’t stop there. Galleries worldwide will also showcase Agent X’s artwork, allowing art enthusiasts from diverse corners of the globe to engage with the essence of Hip-Hop’s transformative influence.
Agent X’s artistic journey explores the deep-rooted connection between Hip-Hop and contemporary culture. The collection encapsulates the profound impact of Hip-Hop music through a fusion of abstract artistry and the portrayal of iconic figures such as Drake, Jay Z, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Notorious B.I.G., Eminem, and 2Pac.
Agent X’s collection enriches this celebration with a unique artistic perspective. For art enthusiasts, fans of Hip-Hop, and anyone appreciating the power of artistic expression, this exhibition promises to be a transformative experience. Agent X’s art speaks volumes, conveying the evolution of Hip-Hop’s cultural influence.
Stay tuned for the worldwide debut of Agent X’s art collection, marking 50 years of Hip-Hop, as it unfolds on Saatchi Art and other galleries worldwide. Visit www.agentxart.com and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6CKELdvZVE for more information.
About Agent X
Agent X, a renowned artist with international acclaim, has exhibited his unique artworks in art meccas across the globe, including London, Singapore, Los Angeles, Germany, Amsterdam, New York, San Francisco, Spain, and Toronto. His art has graced prestigious galleries, art collectors’ homes, and fans of art worldwide. Agent X’s work effortlessly blends abstract artistry with the
iconic figures that define the world of Hip-Hop, creating an art form that transcends boundaries and resonates with diverse audiences.
#notyet,” an apparent nod to the upcoming Christmas season, which has become synonymous with her 1993 hit “All I Want for Christmas is You.”
