Petition Pushes To Name New York Street After MF DOOM

MF DOOM quietly passed away on Halloween of last year, although his wife did not officially announce his death until December 31st, nearly two months after he had passed. His death came as a shock wave to fans and friends of the influential British-American artist who were completely blindsided by his passing. Since then, a petition has been launched to name a New York Street after the enigmatic rapper.  


Peter Kramer/Getty Images

In the change.org petition launched by Dr. Patrick Graham, the ‘KMD-MF DOOM Way Committee’ has requested that Long Beach City Council rename a block between Riverside Boulevard and Long Beach Road on East Hudson Street in Long Beach after the late rapper. DOOM, whose real name is Daniel Dumile, grew up in the city.

“Mr. Dumile represents the ability to grow through tragedy and unite people around common themes,” Dr. Graham said. “We need more individuals like him during this time of political and social divisions. Mr. Dumile still inspires many young people to view the potential of everyday life. Long Beach should be proud of its native son and honor him and his legacy on a street sign. Just as important, the city should embrace the unity Mr. Dumile represents for generations to come.”

It further stated, “Please sign this petition in support of KMD-MF Doom Way. As a native son of Long Beach, a professor, and a public and social sector leader, I know the importance of symbols.” The petition has since reached over 800 signatures and you can sign it here

The cause of the influential rapper’s death is still unknown, and his family has remained pretty private about his passing since. At the time. of his death, he was said to be “85 percent done” working on the follow-up to his 2004 project with Madlib Madvillainy. We once again extend our prayers out to his family. 

[via]

Trippie Redd Speaks On Playboi Carti Trying To Sign Him: “I Had A Different Plan”

Trippie Redd is one of the most individualistic rappers in the world. He’s developed a style that only works for him. His lane is impenetrable as one of rap’s premier rock stars, coming into his own in the last half-decade. We’ve watched Trippie grow from a bubbling SoundCloud rapper to an absolute superstar, and it’s been a joy to watch him rise up to new levels. 

The Ohio-raised recording artist recently took some time to speak with well-respected hip-hop journalist Shirley Ju, taking a step into Shirley’s Temple to christen her new show, speaking on everything from his memories with Juice WRLD and XXXTentacion, his respect for Detroit rapper Icewear Vezzo, his upcoming album Trip At Knight, and more, including the time Playboi Carti allegedly tried to sign him.

On Whole Lotta Red standout track “Punk Monk”, Playboi Carti unleashes a bunch of his secrets, including the fact that he attempted to sign Trippie Redd, Pi’erre Bourne, Lil Keed, and others to his label. It took a couple of months but Trippie is finally confirming that story.

“Yeah, man, shout out Playboi Carti. He tried to sign me. He tried it,” said Trippie. “I f*ck with bro, I love his music. I was listening to Carti when he was produced by ICYTWAT. I love his sh*t. Don’t get me wrong. He definitely tried to sign me but I had a different plan.”

When he was asked about anybody that did help him establish himself as an artist, Trippie gives Kodie Shane her flowers, noting that she went hard on promoting their song together, which effectively got him a lot of attention before he blew up.

Watch the new episode of Shirley’s Temple above at the 38:43 mark to hear Trippie speak about Carti.

Cardi B Breaks A New Female Rap Record

Cardi B has only been in the game for a few years now, but thanks to the release of her debut album Invasion Of Privacy, she’s already one of the most commercially successful female rappers of all time. As it stands, the majority of the album’s tracks have been certified platinum, with lead single “Bodak Yellow” steadily approaching diamond status. Suffice it to say, there are still people keeping the project in heavy rotation, to the point where the New York rapper has hit a new milestone for female rappers.

Leon Bennett/WireImage/Getty Images

As indicated by the stat-tracking Twitter page Chart Data, Cardi’s Invasion Of Privacy has officially spent one-hundred-and-fifty weeks on the Billboard 200, the highest amount of chart time spent by a female rapper’s album in hip-hop history. Unsurprising, given that every single track has been certified either gold or platinum, with the majority falling under the latter category. It didn’t take long for Cardi to catch wind of the milestone, taking to Twitter to celebrate her dominance with an alliterated flex: “BIRKIN BAG BARDI BACK.”

At this point, few can dispute the fact that Cardi B is easily one of the most commercially dominant artists in the mainstream. When she ultimately does deliver her sophomore project, which is sure to include recent singles “WAP” and “Up,” expect her foothold on the charts to only strengthen in intensity. Clearly, Cardi’s album holds more longevity than some initially suspected — who knows how long the momentum will last. 

Chris Brown Salutes Bobby Shmurda: “King Of New York Sh*t”

It’s been a long time coming but we’re ecstatic about the news of Bobby Shmurda’s release from prison. Since he shook the world with “Hot N***a,” the rapper’s impact hasn’t gone unnoticed, especially in the current drill renaissance happening across Brooklyn. Shmurda, along with Chief Keef, could both be regarded as the forefathers of the sound.

Rowdy Rebel hinted at Bobby’s release this week before many blogs and IG pages making the premature announcement that he was released on Monday morning. That wasn’t the case but he was released this morning. Quavo kept his word, picking up the Brooklyn rapper in a private jet. Plus, Shmurda’s mom shared footage of the rapper on FaceTime lighting a cigar in celebration of his release.

Chris Brown took to the ‘Gram earlier today where he shared a warm welcome to Bobby Shmurda in the wake of his release. Taking to his IG story, the rapper declared the return of the “King Of New York,” which Shmurda already suggested when he posted a clip of Christopher Walken from King Of New York.

“Shmurda Home King Of New York Shit!!!” Wrote Breezy. “Big Blood But I Salute A Real Loc.”

Prior to his release, Bobby confirmed the news that he would be out with a message to his fans expressing his gratitude for their loyalty throughout the tumultuous 6+ years that he’s been through. “Thank you for riding this six-year sentence out with me,” he wrote. “I love you all and look forward to seeing you soon. Sincerely, Bod boy Bobby.” 


Brad Barket/Getty Images

Hopefully, we won’t be waiting too long to hear new music from Shmurda. The rapper’s mother told TMZ yesterday that his post-prison game plan includes some well-deserved time with family and studio time.  Looks like the rapper is ready to reclaim his rightful throne. 

Check Breezy’s welcome home post below. 

Bobby Shmurda Goes 5x Platinum After His Release

Bobby Shmurda’s return home has been long-awaited by fans for years since being arrested on gang-related charges back in 2014 and ordered to serve seven years behind bars. Over the years, he was rumored to be making a return home “soon” numerous times. While nothing came to fruition, he remained in the hearts and speakers of many loyal fans. Shmurda was granted a conditional release and officially released from prison Tuesday morning, with his mother sharing the first video of the rapper out. 

In addition to celebrating being a free man, the “Hot N*gga” artist can also celebrate officially going 5x platinum with the smash hit following his release. Billboard chart aggregate data source Chart Data confirmed that the 2014 hit is now RIAA certified for having sold more than 5 million copies since its release.

This is a massive feat for Bobby considering he was arrested not long after the release of the single. Unsurprisingly, fans of the rapper have likely been revisiting his short discography in the wake of his release as they eagerly await for him to hit the studio again. 

“There are no words to explain the JOY in my [heart],” said the rapper’s mother in the Instagram caption of a Facetime video with the freed emcee. “God knows the way I Love my boys and I Thank him for bringing them both back to me in one piece the same way they left. I am so overwhelmed and in 6 years 2 months and 5 days and 5.5hrs I finally feel like myself again. God is so good and we are truly BLESSED!!!!”


Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Power 105.1

We’ll keep you posted on all things Bobby Shmurda post-prison-related.

Lil Baby Announces New Music

Lil Baby popped up on Twitter on Monday night to ask fans if they were ready for more new music. The rapper has been featuring on a few songs, most notably on Mulatto’s latest single “Sex Lies”, and taking a bit of a break from the spotlight following numerous controversies and the release of his single two-pack “Errbody” and “On Me”

After the overwhelmingly positive response to his tweet, Lil Baby seemingly decided that the people were ready, announcing that he will be releasing a new single soon with up-and-coming star EST Gee. “F*cc It I’m Getting Bacc In My Bagg,” wrote the superstar rapper on Instagram, posting a picture of himself with overflowing racks on the table. “New Music Otw Ft @est.gee !!”

If you’re unfamiliar with EST Gee, the Louisville native has been making a lot of buzz as the latest signee to Yo Gotti’s CMG Records. His recently-released project I Still Don’t Feel Nun features his new label boss, Moneybagg Yo, Jack Harlow, Kevin Gates, and 42 Dugg. “I know a star and hustler when I see one and EST Gee is up next,” said Yo Gotti of the rising star.

Lil Baby did not announce when the song would be out but it’s likely that it hits streaming services at the end of this week, or in the coming weeks.


Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Stay tuned for further announcements on Lil Baby’s new music!

J.I.D. Returns With New Single “Skeegee”

J.I.D’s The Forever Story, should that indeed be the title of his forthcoming solo album, remains one of the year’s more anticipated projects. At least, to those who boast distinguished and respectable tastes. And while details surrounding the potential release date are scarce, it would appear that J.I.D is, at the very least, granting fans something to tide them over. That gift is “Skeegee,” which arrives complete with a music video filmed in Tuskgee, Alabama.

“Dear everybody who fuck wit my music,” he writes, to those whom it concerns. “Thank ya’ll n***az for your patience while I finish up the album and shit. We all know black history is every month but I wanted to drop something to highlight this month specifically and also celebrate 500k+ subscribers on YouTube.” And while “album soon” could mean damn near anything at this point, “Skeegee” is a worthy holdover, highlighting the many different reasons J.I.D. remains such a fan favorite — including but not exclusive to his storytelling prowess and slick flow, both of which shine throughout. 

Check it out for yourself now, and sound off if you’re looking forward to The Forever Story.

QUOTABLE LYRICS

Way back when I was puttin’ on my football cap
This institution came recruitin’, lit a root for the stats
They sat me in a room with my dad
And it was cool but when they left I was glad
And my pops was too, he said that’s good-ass parenting
Reminding me ’bout that school that did them ni**ga experiments

Quavo Picks Up Bobby Shmurda From Prison In A Private Jet

It’s been a pretty sweet start to the day for hip-hop fans as New York rapper Bobby Shmurda, who was sentenced to seven years in prison, was finally released ten months earlier than anticipated. His release is being celebrated across social media as fans rush to stream his music, expressing their excitement for his upcoming records. 


Neilson Barnard/Getty Images

On Monday afternoon, Quavo of the Migos revealed that he was planning on picking up the rapper once he got out. While some accused the superstar of chasing clout, others pointed out that Quavo and Bobby have a long working relationship, coming together in 2015 for their ShMigo Gang collaboration. Bobby had even planned to release a full mixtape with the Migos. The full-circle moment happened on Tuesday morning as Quavo happily met Bobby with a private jet as he picked him up from the correctional facility, welcoming him home.

“Did Six And Didn’t Switch Welcome Home,” wrote Quavo on Instagram, posting a video of them walking off the jet together. Bobby walked with his custom “Shmurda” briefcase, which we can only imagine what sort of goodies were packed inside. If Quavo’s recent gift to Rowdy Rebel, Bobby’s partner, is any indication, the New York artist likely got a care package complete with thousands in cash, jewelry, and more.


Brad Barket/Getty Images

Welcome home to a real one, Bobby Shmurda. Are you excited for his “First Day Out” release?

A$AP Rocky Is Working On His Next Album

It has been some time since we’ve heard brand new solo material from A$AP Rocky aside from non-album loosies–since 2018 to be exact. Since the release of his third studio album Testing, the Harlem style King with other endeavors, particularly his fashion collaborations and modeling. He’s been spending some time relaxing with his new beau Rihanna as well, packing on the PDA in paparazzi shots of the two. The “Sundress” artist revealed to fans on Twitter that despite the long wait, he’s currently working on his upcoming fourth LP. 


Pietro D’Aprano/Getty Images for Prada

While interacting with fans on Twitter, the self-proclaimed “Pretty Mother F*cker” (yes–he seriously told Swedish police that was his nickname), let fans know that LP4 was en route. After a fellow verified account asked the rapper, “when you dropping a album Bruv ??,” Rocky responded with a simple “WORKING ON IT RN.” 

At the time, not much is known about the forthcoming project nor the estimated time it is slated to be released. Back in 2019, Juicy J suggested that Rocky had already begun working on his upcoming album All Smiles. Since then, no further developments about the album have been made, but it has been suggested the 2018 single “Sundress” was meant to kick off the roll out of the project. 

The upcoming album will serve as his first release since his unjust detainment in a Swedish prison after he was arrested for assault. The outpouring of support from the hiph-hop community and Donald Trump alike helped contributed to his eventual release.