hip-hop culture

Hip-Hop Mourns Trugoy The Dove: Questlove, Busta Rhymes, Chuck D & Many More

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Hip-hop figures from all over shared their heartfelt messages dedicated to De La Soul’s Trugoy the Dove, who passed away this weekend. While his cause of death is unknown as of writing this article, hip-hop aimed to celebrate his life instead. Moreover, many rappers, producers, and members of the rap world took to social media and other means to mourn the late rapper. Also, his death struck the community as excitement geared for the group’s upcoming streaming releases. As they reckon with the loss of a monumental figure in pioneering hip-hop, they dedicated heartfelt messages of love.

MOUNTAIN VIEW, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 22: Trugoy of De La Soul performs at Shoreline Amphitheatre on June 22, 2019 in Mountain View, California. (Photo by Miikka Skaffari/Getty Images)

“All too often we have to wait for tragedy to strike before we express how much someone means to us,” Questlove wrote on Instagram. “I just wanna thank them for the decades of zaniness, the fun memories of my teen years, the blueprint laid out that eventually brought Tariq [Black Thought] & i together.” Also, Busta Rhymes shared a pained reflection on his passing. “Complete Disbelief that I’m typing this right now,” he expressed on Instagram. “This one hurts Bad. Dave aka Trugoy the Dove Fly Beloved Fly.. Rest Easy King.” Furthermore, LL Cool J and Ghostface Killah commented under his post, wishing Dave safe travels.

Hip-Hop Tributes Trugoy the Dove

Furthermore, Chuck D posted a wholesome video of him and Trugoy. “#RestInBeats my bro,” he wrote, “#DeLaSoul forever.” DJ Premier also honored Trugoy via Twitter. “So sad to hear of our icons of HIP HOP Culture Pass On… We will miss you Trugoy The Dove (Plug 2) Dave Jolicoeur of DE LA SOUL…Our memories together are endless. Condolences to your family and salute Pos, Maseo and Smiles. @WeAreDeLaSoul.” In addition, Styles P shared a simple but powerful statement on Instagram. “S.I.P. Plug 2…. Legends and energy never die!!!!!”

Meanwhile, Pharrell tweeted a message to not just David Jolicoeur and his loved ones, but to all impacted by his artistry and energy. “Trugoy Dave from De La Soul has gone up to be with the day of the stars with the Master. Sending love, light and positive vibrations to his family, The Soul and everyone whose lives have been touched by his existence. Oodles and Oodles and Oodles of O’s.” You can find more tributes to Plug 2 below, and share your favorite Trugoy songs and verses in the comments. Come back to HNHH for the latest on De La Soul, Trugoy the Dove, and their forever enduring legacy.
Long Live Trugoy the Dove.

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Dave East Raps Nas Verse Flawlessly When Asked About The First Verse He Memorized

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Dave East perfectly rapped through a Nas verse when asked about the first verse he ever memorized. During an interview with HipHopDX at the Grammys red carpet, they spoke with the New York rapper about the first verse to live fully in his head- well, other than his own raps. Moreover, the 34-year-old recited the New York legend’s bars on “You Won’t See Me Tonight.” Furthermore, that track features the late Aaliyah and landed on Nas’s 1999 album I Am… A pretty deep cut for many fans, so props to East for the pick and for his memory.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – FEBRUARY 15: Nas and Dave East attend the Hennessy All-Star Saturday Night with Nas, A$AP Ferg, & Da Baby at The Old Post Office on February 15, 2020 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Noel Vasquez/Getty Images for Hennessey)

“Caramel kisses of Jezebel’s sister,” he began. “I feel no guilt when I twist ya. Turn the other cheek when I see the next freak witcha. You got your name on his lease, copy his keys. That’s your lil’ spot where you rest your wig piece. Go ‘head and live baby, I know you his lady. You page me, when you got the day free. But I be out with my peeps in them system Jeeps. You wanna lay up in the sheets of presidential suites.

“Like I’ll massage you while you massage me, mami,” he continued. “But can you hang with a young man who’s doing his thang? Speak up, I wanna know if you can keep up. Timberland boots for girls, with the tree stump. Baggy sweatsuits, mystery what’s underneath them. They for my eyes only, you call me when you lonely. But I like to make the baddest girls wait, I got G baby.”

Meanwhile, Nas wasn’t the only OG that Dave East shouted out at the Grammys red carpet. Also, he spoke excitedly about portraying Method Man again in the upcoming season of Hulu’s series Wu Tang: An American Saga. “It’s the best season,” he told Baller Alert. “I think this the season that the world’s going to be able to identify the most with. I feel like season one and two is, like, stuff you didn’t know about them. You know what I mean? Getting to know their stories. Season three, I’m, like, really Meth. I look like Meth for real, I got the fangs and all that. It’s dope the way RZA did it this season.” Let us know if you’re excited for the show in the comments, and return to HNHH for the latest on Nas and Dave East.

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JT Prays For City Girls’ Future

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JT recently opened up to Angie Martinez on her IRL podcast about the future of City Girls and how she prays for its health. While they’re one of the most talked-about and beloved duos who’ve blown up recently, their profile and success means that a lot can get in the way. Still, the Miami native spoke earnestly about her career path and the love she has for Yung Miami. After discussing JT’s personal story, the conversation eventually shifted towards the state of the duo. Overall, from the 30-year-old’s perspective, their relationship is one to nurture and protect.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – OCTOBER 09: Yung Miami and JT of City Girls perform onstage during day 2 of the 2022 ONE Music Festival at Central Park on October 09, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/WireImage)

“Hopefully the future of the City Girls can be the City Girls,” she expressed. “And I pray that our egos does not separate it. Or the internet, or guys, or like, nothing! Sometimes I be on my s**t; sometimes she be on her s**t. You know? Like, we’re human; we’re women. We’re not girls, we’re women. Sometimes I wanna be with my man, just like sometimes she wanna be with her man. And I hope that’s not what be the reason or interfere.” However, she clarified that she’s not scared of them beefing or cutting ties in any way. Moreover, she just hopes that their relationship can keep thriving in a volatile industry. “I do not see beefin’ and breaking up with the City Girls at all. Ever! That’s just stupid. I hope we don’t get too busy.”

Even while JT faced prison time as they blew up, the City Girls support each other through thick and thin. While their bond is strong, they also gave each other space to form their own careers and individual pursuits. For example, Yung Miami broke into the podcasting and acting world. On the other hand, JT recently made strides in the lanes of fashion and beauty. On Thursday (February 9), she announced her first solo deal: a partnership with KISS Colors & Care.

“JT is the epitome of confidence and self-expression,” the company’s VP of Global Marketing Annette DeVita-Goldstein stated. “Because KISS Colors and Care celebrates creativity and style versatility, we could not think of a more iconic brand partner to represent the brand and its philosophy. We’re thrilled to have JT as our celebrity partner – she continues to be a disruptive force in the music, fashion, and beauty industries. She is bold and embraces new hair looks with confidence and authenticity, which aligns perfectly with our new styling collection.” Regardless of what they do next, come back to HNHH for the latest on City Girls.

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Drake & Kendrick Lamar Shouldn’t Be In Top 10 Rappers List, Says Charlamagne Tha God

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Billboard and VIBE recently came out with their top 50 rappers of all time list, for which the top 10 ranking released this week. However, many people expressed issues with the placements, as expected with any subjective list. One detractor is Charlamagne Tha God, who said Kendrick Lamar and Drake don’t belong at No. 2 and 8, respectively. Moreover, the Breakfast Club co-host discussed the list with his fellow on-air colleagues, and he said it’s “too early” in their careers to tell. Of course, both rappers continue to dominate and forge their paths, but maybe their accomplishments are already enough to rival the game’s best.

ATLANTA, GA – SEPTEMBER 09: Charlamagne tha God is seen during a campaign event and conversation with Stacey Abrams, 21 Savage, and Francys Johnson at The HBUC on September 9, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images)

“I feel like it’s too early for Drake and Kendrick to be saying stuff like that,” he remarked as DJ Envy went through the list. “Of all time? God damn! Penis is a form of transportation for y’all.” Still, both MCs clearly made some of the largest waves in hip-hop history. The 6 God, for example, recently became the first artist to amass over 75 billion streams on Spotify. Whereas the “God’s Plan” star leads the charts, K. Dot leads the culture. Following three Grammy wins last weekend, he’s now the third most decorated rapper in Grammy history. Moreover, Jay-Z and Kanye West currently share that honor at 24 phonograms each. For what it’s worth, Ye landed at No. 11 on Billboard‘s list, and Hov is Billboard‘s greatest rapper of all time.

In addition, the top ten also included Biggie, Nas, Nicki Minaj, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Tupac and Lil Wayne. Other names near the top are André 3000, Rakim, LL Cool J, J. Cole, Scarface, 50 Cent, and Ice Cube. In fact, Cube was another member of hip-hop culture that criticized the rankings. “I don’t f**k with Billboard or their editor,” he told TMZ with a smile. “Billboard ain’t hip-hop so their opinion don’t matter. Yeah, it is,” he acknowledged on the travesty of Too $hort’s snub.

“It’s an irrelevant list, you know what I mean? It’s like assholes; everybody got one and they all stink. There it is.” Who else should’ve made (or been omitted from) Billboard and VIBE‘s top 10 rappers list? However you may feel, let us know how you’d make the tough call in the comments below. Also, as always, come back to HNHH for the latest on hip-hop debates and the genre’s greatest.

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Willie D Blasts Grammys For Including Scarface, But Not Geto Boys, In Hip-Hop Tribute

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While it’s impossible to fit every hip-hop icon into one performance for its 50th anniversary, some omissions feel easily avoidable. Willie D just called out the Grammys for inviting Scarface to perform, but not the rest of the Geto Boys. Moreover, Scarface delivered his verse on the 1991 classic “Mind Playing Tricks On Me.” The fantastic homage at the 65th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena on Sunday (February 5). Also, the near-14-minute show included many legends, from Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five to Nelly and even Lil Baby. However, when Scarface delivered the medley’s first Southern staple, his fellow Geto Boy Willie D was nowhere to be seen.

ST. LOUIS – OCTOBER 1991: Rappers Willie D. (William James Dennis) and Scarface (Brad Terrence Jordan) of The Geto Boys performs at The Arena in St. Louis, Missouri in October 1991. (Photo By Raymond Boyd/Getty Images)

Afterwards, Willie took to Instagram to express his frustrations. Moreover, he’s the only other living member of the Houston group, as Bushwick Bill passed away in June of 2019. “A reminder to the Grammys and all the rest of y’all out there trying to hustle the Geto Boys brand by only including Scarface, who had a stellar solo career: How in the hell are you gonna have a 50-year tribute to Hip Hop and not include Geto Boys the group?” Willie asked. “If you forgot, the group includes Scarface and Willie D. How you gonna use a performance that includes a song that I co-wrote but not even have the decency, the respect to reach out to me and ask me if I wanted to participate? Y’all are some clowns for that. All the way out of pocket. Whoever made the call, y’all some clowns… No more talking.”

Also, he captioned his post with ““Disrespectful Mofos!!! No mo’ talk.” In fact, some people even questioned why Scarface himself didn’t give him a call or decline performing without him. Still, Questlove clearly curated this spectacle with a lot of heart and passion. With that in mind, we don’t know who was directly responsible for this specific decision. Regardless, the Roots drummer partnered with Nas’s Mass Appeal to bring hip-hop’s fifty years to life. “Hip Hop has been a driving force in the music and the culture,” he expressed. “It’s had an immeasurable impact on our culture and our world and I’ve had the great privilege of co-curating this thing with the Roots and many others that are gonna join us that night.”

Meanwhile, LL Cool J finished the performance with a hopeful gaze towards the future, and by acknowledging the long journey. “From The Bronx to the five boroughs, to the West Coast to the Heartland; overseas to Europe, to Africa, to Asia; TikTok, whatever’s next,” he said. “Because thanks to the 33 Hip Hop artists on stage and the countless more we love, Hip Hop is a global platform today. We’re celebrating. Happy 50th anniversary to Hip Hop, baby!” Come back to HNHH for the latest news on the Grammys, hip-hop history, and underrepresented legends.

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Bun B Shares 10 Hip-Hop Songs For Young Rap Fans

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When legends talk about the “kids these days,” it’s usually a two-way street of negativity. However, one of rap music’s most enduring and important legends is using his experience to actually engage with and educate the next generation. Moreover, in a new feature with XXL, Bun B shared ten hip-hop songs for young rap fans to discover.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – DECEMBER 07: Bun B attends Trillstatik 2Live Recording Session on December 07, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Furthermore, the Texas legend’s knowledge, talent, skill, taste, and experience regarding hip-hop is like gospel. Funnily enough, the rapper is a guest lecturer at Rice University in Houston, where he co-taught a Hip-Hop and Religion course. In honor of the genre’s 50th anniversary this year, the 49-year-old MC shared ten rap cuts that he finds important for the next generation. Also, he encouraged listeners to keep an open mind, as the genre’s always evolving.

That being said, here’s the list. Starting in the year 1990 is “We’re All In The Same Gang” by the West Coast All-Stars. Later, he shouted out the classic 1991 Geto Boys cut, “Mind Playing Tricks On Me.” Also from ’91, he mentioned “A Bird In The Hand” by Ice Cube and “Be A Father To Your Child” from Ed O.G. & Da Bulldogs.

Following that is E-40 and The Click’s “Drought Season” from ’92 and “Mr. Big” by 8Ball & MJG from ’93. In addition, he gave another Southern nod to Goodie Mob’s 1995 hit, “Soul Food.” Then, interestingly, came two songs featuring the one and only Tupac Shakur. First, there’s his classic ’95 track “Dear Mama” and 1997’s “Smile” where he featured with Scarface.

Finally, Bun B had to tip his hat to Nelly’s 2000 smash, “Country Grammar,” which he admitted he disliked initially. Moreover, each pick has its own write-up courtesy of the UGK legend, so click here to check his thoughts out. While all his reflections are engaging, his words on “Smile” and “Country Grammar” in particular are quite compelling.

Still, what did you think of Bun B’s list of ten hip-hop songs for the younger generation? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, check back in with HNHH for more advice, recommendations, and wisdom from the hip-hop game’s greatest exponents.

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Charlamagne Tha God Calls Kodak Black The GOAT, Compares Him To Kendrick Lamar

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Well, we know who bumped “Silent Hill” the most last year. Charlamagne Tha God recently called Kodak Black “the GOAT” and compared him to Kendrick Lamar. While some may find the comparison absurd, they did collaborate on the Compton rapper’s latest album, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers. Moreover, the radio host explained why he holds the two in a similar regard.

ATLANTA, GA – SEPTEMBER 09: Charlamagne tha God is seen during a campaign event and conversation with Stacey Abrams, 21 Savage, and Francys Johnson at The HBUC on September 9, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images)

“Kodak is the GOAT,” tha God stated. “I was watching that video and I was thinking to myself like, ‘Man, do people realize how dope Kodak Black is, yo? Not just as a personality, but as a rapper, as an artist. You know these true hip-hop heads will be like ‘Ah, man, you’re talking about Kodak Black…’

“I look at Kodak Black the same way I look at Kendrick Lamar,” he continued. “I’m not even joking. I feel like they’re both two different levels of prolific. They’re telling similar stories, just from different places. They’re just two different versions of the same kid from the hood.”

Furthermore, a lot of fans might consider this a hot take. However, Charlamagne has plenty more where that came from, and other opinions of his caused even more debate. Recently, the media personality expressed his skepticism regarding Chief Keef when naming his list of the most influential rappers.

“No, you know why I don’t put Chief Keef in there?” he remarked. “Because Chief Keef didn’t influence the world, he influenced a sound of a region. Those four people I named literally influenced people all over the world.” Previously, the host mentioned his picks for the top spots. “I’m not going to say the order number, but there’s four: Kanye, Jay-Z, Pac and Wayne. The four most influential rappers of all time.” 

Meanwhile, G Herbo was one of many both inside and outside the rap game to disagree. “What Charlamagne said, he don’t feel like Sosa is one of the most influential, like, globally but I disagree,” the Chicago MC expressed. “Probably right now you don’t feel like that ‘cause you got the Drakes, the Futures. You got so many but I feel like it wouldn’t be a lot of artists if it wasn’t for Sosa. I’m talking about a lot of styles, though.” Even the “Don’t Like” MC himself chimed in on the debate.

Still, what do you think of Charlamagne Tha God praising Kodak Black and likening him to Kendrick Lamar? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, check back in with HNHH for the latest hot takes, debates, and kindred spirits in the game.

T.I. Names His Top Five Rappers Turned Actors

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While a lot of rappers stick to what they blew up with, it’s more common by the day to see them venture into other fields. T.I. just shared his top five list of rappers turned actors with Jalen Rose on the Renaissance Man podcast. Moreover, his list includes a lot of the classic heavy hitters that can’t escape a mention.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 21: Rapper T.I. attends the world premiere of “Fear” at Directors Guild Of America on January 21, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Paul Archuleta/Getty Images)

“Name me your top five rappers turned actors,” Rose asked the Atlanta MC, who laughed at the question

“Damn,” the rapper began. “Tupac, Will Smith, Cube, Ice-T… man, Queen Latifah.”

To give credit where it’s due, it seemed like T.I. had his answers on lock quite quickly. Furthermore, all those names are legendary when it comes to crossing mediums over. Also, it’s funny to hear the 42-year-old talk about acting considering Morgan Freeman got him fired from a movie.

T.I.’s (Almost) Big Break

However, to be fair, T.I. almost made it big in that industry, as well. During a recent interview with Shannon Sharpe, he talked about how he was almost cast for Nick Cannon’s role in the film Drumline.

“[Dallas Austin] was telling me about his first film,” he said. “I was always like, ‘Yo bruh, put me in it.’ And he was like, ‘Aight, yeah man. Say less.’ He sent me to go read and I read and they were like, ‘Man, you got to learn how to play the drums.’ And I was like, ‘I could play like I could play the drums.’ They were like, ‘Nah, you gotta learn how.’ I was like, ‘Man, I don’t wanna do that.’

“I just didn’t want to commit myself to it at the time. It wasn’t there,” the “Live Your Life” star continued. “But I read, and I didn’t get it, and that movie went on to be Drumline. Yeah, I was reading for Nick Cannon’s part.

“Look, that opened the door for me to do ATL,” he added. “After I didn’t get the role for Drumline, I went back to Dallas and said, ‘Man, next time, bruh, just give me the role. I ain’t going to read or nothing. Just give me the role.’ And he was like, ‘Cool,’ and he just gave the role for Rashad in ATL.”

Still, what do you think of T.I.’s top five rappers turned actors list? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, log back into HNHH for the latest lists and ranking of the game’s best from the game’s best.

Tony Yayo Speaks On 50 Cent And Other Rappers Being “Damaged”

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Tony Yayo recently spoke about how 50 Cent is one of many damaged rappers working in the industry today. While many consult the New York rapper for his interesting takes and stories, he opened up about the struggle many rappers face. During an interview with DJ Vlad, he explained how artists who come from the streets face an uphill battle.

HOLLYWOOD, CA – JANUARY 30: Tony Yayo attends Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson’s Star Ceremony on The Hollywood Walk Of Fame on January 30, 2020 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Albert L. Ortega/Getty Images)

Furthermore, Yayo used the “In Da Club” rapper as an example.

“Listen [50] didn’t know who his father was, and his moms was in the streets, and she got killed,” he remarked. “There’s no parents there, your grandparents are older, you’re damaged, bro. You was outside, the streets taught n***as. A lot of shootings you see… You see an 18-year-old kid stab his 16-year-old girlfriend somewhere in New York because he thought she was cheating.

“It’s what they see from parents,” he continued. “It’s f***ed up for certain places. Sometimes, you want to help and try to fix people, your mans say he do s**t for the youth. That’s real s**t. ‘Cause that’s where it starts at, trying to help them, but some people can’t be helped. They just f***in’ bad seeds, bruh.”

However, in the same interview with VladTV, he also remarked a lighter story about 50 spitting his first verse.

“‘Son said he was from O.T., sold ‘leven at O.Z.,’” he continued rapping. “‘His man brought him to me, but he ain’t really know B. Said it was time, dude was a cop, he was just trying to pop to put the new beams on the drop.’ That’s all I remember. But that rhyme to me was like, that’s when I was like, “Nah.” He had other s**t, but that was in my man’s basement… and I was just like ‘Yo, this n***a’s getting better by the minute.”

Still, what did you think of Tony Yayo’s remarks about damaged rappers? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, stay logged into HNHH for the latest insights, reflections, and tough conversations from titans of the hip-hop game.

Rock The Bells Announces Lineup For First-Ever Hip-Hop Cruise

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LL Cool J’s Rock The Bells just announced the lineup for their upcoming hip-hop experience cruise. Moreover, the global platform dedicated to hip-hop culture partnered with Sixthman, known in the industry for their on-seas experiences. While the lineup is incredibly extensive, performances won’t be all that patrons have to look forward to from November 13th to 17th this year.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 06: Rick Ross attends Rock The Bells at Forest Hills Stadium on August 06, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Furthermore, the lineup includes many legends of the game, plus some names who still engage actively with it. Some are Rick Ross, Lil Jon, Big Boi, MC Lyte, Ghostface Killah, Big Daddy Kane, Too $hort, and Slick Rick. Also included are DJ Jazzy Jeff, Trina & Trick Daddy, Just Blaze, Pete Rock, EPMD, Bun B, and many more. Moreover, Roxanne Shanté and Torae will host, with a Kid Capri-led pool deck party series.

“How could I not Rock the Boat with the Goat?” Shanté stated. “LL COOL J’s Rock The Bells keep the culture afloat. Please believe it.” Furthermore, Too $hort added “Rock The Bells is Hip-Hop History, and they’re working to MAKE history!”

Unfortunately, though, tickets for the cruise experience already sold out. Still, not all hope is lost if you didn’t snag your reservation. Moreover, fans can go to rockthebellscruise.com and sign up for a waiting list to wait for rooms as they become available.

“See, that’s the difference between the Rock The Bells Festival and any other festivals,” Shanté told us about Rock The Bells Festival last year. “Most festivals are thrown together by people who, you know, they pick some hot artists, but for us, this is more than that—this is a family reunion, and we’re looking so forward to having the family come together, especially after the pandemic. So, being able to do this…phenomenal. I tell everybody, ‘This right here, if you have ever felt that you were not a part of Hip Hop history, then this is your chance to be a part of Hip Hop history.’”

Still, what do you think of the lineup for the Rock The Bells cruise? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, check back in with HNHH for the most exciting upcoming live experiences in hip-hop.

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