Hip Hop News Archives - Page 18 of 15758

Brands Use Kendrick Lamar’s “GNX” To Their Advantage On Social Media

November 25, 2024 by newhiphopnews

While hip-hop reacts to Kendrick Lamar’s surprise album, GNX, brands promote their products by taking advantage of its popularity. McDonald’s, DreamWorks Animation, AXE Body Spray, Amazon Music, and even the Shrek and Despicable Me franchises are just a few of the corporate giants incorporating it into their marketing campaigns. Sports teams like the Detroit Lions and Las Vegas Raiders, along with the NFL itself, have also joined the frenzy. The level of obsession feels almost surreal.

Kendrick Lamar has always been a cultural force, but his latest album, GNX, has ignited something unusual—a strange corporate infatuation with one of his standout tracks. The Pulitzer Prize-winning artist, widely regarded as the reigning king of Hip-Hop in 2024, has captivated listeners with the song “TV Off.” One particular moment has taken on a life of its own. When Lamar passionately cries out, “Mustarrrrrrrrrrrrdddd!,” the line became an instant phenomenon, sparking memes, debates, and viral videos. Mustard supported the social media craze on his account by resharing all the content.

Fast-Food to Blockbuster Films Promote Kendrick Lamar’s “GNX”

MUSTARDDDDD pic.twitter.com/GfI90yVRXF

— Despicable Me 4 (@Minions) November 23, 2024

Industry insiders suggest it’s a textbook case of brands chasing cultural relevance, desperate to connect with Gen Z audiences. Others speculate it’s simply a snowball effect, with one company jumping on the bandwagon and the rest following suit. There’s even a tongue-in-cheek theory circulating that it’s some kind of elaborate conspiracy. While that’s clearly a joke, it underscores just how unusual and pervasive the trend has become.

The buzz around GNX shows no sign of slowing down. While the album is being praised for its bold themes and sharp lyricism, the conversations it has sparked—inside and outside the music world—highlight Lamar’s unparalleled ability to provoke thought and emotion, one line at a time. The album demonstrates his ability to surprise, innovate, and captivate. The soon-to-be #1 album not only solidifies his legacy but also sets the stage for an electrifying year ahead in music and culture. Kendrick Lamar is set to headline the Super Bowl LIX halftime show this February.

[Via]

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Eric Bellinger Continues Impressive 2024 Run With “It’ll All Make Sense Later”

November 25, 2024 by newhiphopnews

R&B sensation Eric Bellinger follows up The Rebirth 3 with his third album of the year in It’ll All Make Sense Later. This project marks a bold new chapter in Bellinger’s career, blending soulful R&B with the vibrant rhythms of Afrobeats and Amapiano. Recorded in the heart of Cape Town, South Africa, the album draws heavily from the region’s rich musical heritage. The 15 songs feature Grammy winner Burna Boy, Ghanaian Afro-fusion star Gyakie, and Nigerian talents Reekado Banks, Oxlade, Tempoe, and Taves. The result is a seamless fusion of cultures and genres, creating a sound both innovative and deeply resonant.

Reflecting on the creative process, Bellinger described the experience as transformative. “Traveling to South Africa to create this album was one of the most profound moments of my career,” he shared. “This project represents liberation and faith—a belief that what lies ahead is greater than the challenges of the present. It’s about trusting the vision and embracing the journey. I hope this album inspires my fans to do the same.”

It’ll All Make Sense Later not only explores uncharted musical territory but also signals the beginning of an exciting era for Bellinger. Fans can look forward to a North American tour kicking off on January 31 in Seattle, WA. The tour spans major cities, including New York, Atlanta, and Chicago, before culminating with a homecoming performance in Los Angeles on March 8 and a final stop in Honolulu, HI, on March 22.

It’ll All Make Sense Later – Eric Bellinger

It’ll All Make Sense Later Tracklist:

Pure

Special

Feelings Never Die

Shooting Star

Precision

Backtrack

Don’t Shut Off The Lights

For Te Evening

Ms. Africa

Desire

Follow Her Lead

No Coincidence

Top Dolla

Don’t Leave

Unfinished Business

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Drake Announces “Anita Max Wynn Australia Tour” Begins Same Day As Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime Show

November 24, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Drake plans to hit the road while Kendrick Lamar performs the Super Bowl halftime show. On Sunday’s xQc Livestream, he announced that his “Anita Max Wynn Tour” will begin on February 9, 2025. The Australian tour kicks off the same day as Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. After Lamar was announced as the halftime performer, snubbing Lil Wayne, the halftime show has been trending. Kendrick was named as the upcoming performer after Lil Wayne voiced his desire to perform for his hometown crowd since the previous Super Bowl.

The rap star joined Nicki Minaj and Birdman in trolling NFL Super Bowl ambassador Jay-Z after Weezy lost out on the performance. Kendrick would address Lil Wayne’s Super Bowl comments on GNX’s intro, “wacced out murals.” After releasing three diss tracks last spring, including “Not Like Us,” Lamar took shots at Drake throughout the surprise album. Drake recently referenced a Kendrick Lamar line from “Euphoria” while commenting on popular streamer Pokimane’s thoughts on him. Drizzy would respond to the stream with, “Is it the braids?”

Drake Will Be Out Of The Country For Kendrick Lamar’s Halftime Show

The tour announcements follow Drizzy’s comments on Kendrick Lamar’s new album and the current state of rap. On GNX, the 6 God said, “I’m here, as you can see, fully intact. Mind, body, and soul. In case you are wondering, right? You need facts to take me out. Fairy tales won’t do it..” On the rap, he told xQc, “Rap music is weird now anyway.” Drizzy would also restrict The Weeknd’s music from being played during the stream.

Throughout the last half-decade, Drizzy has consistently been on tour. The NFL allegedly asked him to perform thrice at the Super Bowl halftime show, but he declined. With eight studio albums, he has become the highest-streaming artist in rap. He is preparing a new joint album with PartyNextDoor, set to be released this fall. He released his latest solo album, For All The Dogs, in 2023.

[Via]

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Drake Accuses Kendrick Lamar Of Peddling Fairytales While Streaming With xQc

November 24, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Drake appears unfazed by Kendrick Lamar’s new album, GNX. As a guest on the popular xQc Livestream, the superstar addressed the upcoming Super Bowl Halftime Show performer’s surprise album that takes several shots at him. Introducing himself as a musician, Drizzy comments on Kendrick Lamar, “I’m here, as you can see, fully intact. Mind, body, and soul. In case you are wondering, right? You need facts to take me out. Fairy tales won’t do it..”

This isn’t the first time Drake has spoken about Lamar’s authenticity. In 2013, Drizzy told Elliott Wilson that the legendary “Control” verse was a moment but nothing immortal. “[Kendrick] is giving people moments,” he said of the “Control” verse. “But are you listening to it now, at this point in time? Okay… It was real cool for a couple of weeks.” But, he continued: “If I asked you, for example, how does that verse start?” Drake was named by Kendrick Lamar’s “Control” verse along with Big Sean, Wale, Meek Mill, and Pusha T.

Drake Tells xQc That Kendrick Lamar Needs More Than “Fairy Tales” To Take Him Out

DRAKE “YOU NEED FACTS TO TAKE ME OUT… FAIRY TALES WONT DO IT” pic.twitter.com/PD6XGKNfvY

— DJ Akademiks (@Akademiks) November 25, 2024

After addressing Kendrick’s new album, Drizzy would share his thoughts on today’s rap. While asking xQc about his taste in music, he states: “Rap music is weird now anyway.” The comment follows Drake’s recent collaboration with emerging artist Chino Pacas on a Spanish track. Drizzy would deliver another verse in Spanish as he did on Bad Bunny’s “MIA” in 2018. Chino Pacas and the 6 God’s collaboration has received mixed reviews.

Drake has spent most of 2024 fending off multiple rivals, including Rick Ross, Future, The Weeknd, and Kendrick Lamar. After releasing his version of “The Heart Pt. 6,” the final response to Kendrick Lamar, Drake would rebuild his popularity by releasing new music on his 100 GB website. He would hint at a possible rematch in his rivalry with Kendrick Lamar; however, another response has not been released yet.

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Army Of Escorts Plan To Testify On Diddy’s Behalf

November 24, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Sean “Diddy” Combs may have a strong defense in his upcoming trial, supported by six escorts willing to testify on his behalf. AllHipHop broke the news of new evidence on Sunday (Nov. 24). The mogul is preparing for the fight of his life in a federal sex trafficking case set to begin in May 2025. The 51-year-old father of seven currently awaits the judge’s ruling on his third bail proposal. If accepted, Diddy will have to reside in Manhattan, where he was originally arrested in September.

The mogul plans to summon escorts from his notorious “freak-off parties” to contest the allegations against him. His legal team aims to dismantle this narrative by calling on escorts to testify. The defense contends their accounts will undermine the prosecution’s portrayal of the events. However, prosecutors suggest the pool of potential witnesses is far larger. “Six escorts are only the beginning,” a member of the prosecution stated, hinting at broader participation in the alleged activities.

Escorts Appear To Be Coming To Diddy’s Defense

Diddy allegedly used his businesses and employees to enable systemic abuse, facing charges of kidnapping, arson, bribery, drug offenses, and obstruction of justice. If convicted, he faces a maximum life sentence for racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion. The latter charge carries a mandatory minimum of 15 years. Additionally, a charge of transportation for purposes of prostitution could add up to 10 years to his sentence.

As the trial unfolds, a judge will review claims that Diddy violated jail protocols by attempting to contact witnesses, which could impact his eligibility for bail. For now, Diddy remains detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, awaiting the next chapter of his legal battle. The mogul has appeared in positive spirits throughout the ordeal. His children celebrated with him for his birthday and he shared how much he was proud of them. The call accused the mogul of using it to orchestrate threatening tactics.

[Via]

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Karlissa Saffold, Blueface’s Mom, Hates His New Prison Tattoo

November 24, 2024 by newhiphopnews

No one was more shocked by Blueface’s new prison tattoo than Karlissa Saffold, the rap star’s mother. In the No Jumper’s Instagram comments, Saffold reacted to the recent footage of her son debuting a new face tattoo while serving a jail term with a disappointed comment. “It’s like I pray and then this,” she wrote. In the footage, Blueface’s face is covered in tattoos, with new ink on his cheeks and forehead. It is unsure if the new ink is authentic or a troll.

In September, a new mugshot of the rapper surfaced, showing his face without the usual tattoos on the side of his head and atop his eyebrows. He surrendered himself to the Los Angeles court in December, planning to be released over the summer. Blueface is currently serving a four-year prison sentence. The rapper’s mother has been active as a socialite and grandmother while he serves his time.

Blueface’s Mom Ain’t Feeling Her Son’s New Prison Tattoo

Many fans are now drawing comparisons to Chrisean Rock, who famously tattooed Blueface’s face on her cheek shortly after his arrest. Social media users have expressed concern over the rapper’s evolving image, questioning whether it reflects a deeper shift in his mindset. Chrisean was released from an Oklahoma jail over the summer and has been busy rebranding her image. She has been focusing on parenting her and Blueface’s infant son, which she baptized a couple of weeks ago.

Fans are left speculating about when the rapper might reunite with his family. On Instagram, he hinted at a potential release date. He wrote, “I’ll Ce Out JULY Don’t Bink!!!!!” The message sparked hope after earlier reports suggested a four year stinct. For now, Blueface’s future remains uncertain. His legal battles continue to fuel conversations, leaving many eager to see what lies ahead for the embattled artist. Over the summer, Blueface mentioned that Los Angeles hip-hop has been lackluster since he’s been away.

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Diddy’s Request For House Arrest Until His 2025 Trial Was Reportedly Denied By A Judge

November 24, 2024 by newhiphopnews

On September 16, Sean “Diddy” Combs was taken into federal custody amid his sex trafficking allegations. The following day, Diddy was formally charged with racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, and transportation to engage in prostitution.

Since then Diddy’s legal team has been hard at work trying to get the disgraced mogul released. After their requests for a bond were denied three times, Diddy’s lawyers have reportedly taken a different approach. According to US Weekly, Diddy’s legal team requested that he be released on house arrest until his trial, which is tentatively scheduled for May 2025.

But the outlet claims presiding US District Judge Arun Subramanian “immediately rejected the idea.”

“That is not going to work,” he said.

In the lawyers’ proposal they suggested Diddy be confided to his Star Island mansion in Miami, Florida. The property was one of Diddy’s estates that was raided by Homeland Security and local authorities in March.

They also offered Diddy’s heavily guarded Upper East Side apartment as a secondary option. Both offered were rejected by the judge. Instead, Diddy will remain at the Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center.

The latest (and fourth) bail decision regarding Diddy’s detainment will be decided next week according to the outlet.

Jess Hilarious Has Fans Curious About If She Dated Chris Brown

November 24, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Jess Hilarious has sparked a social media frenzy with her response to Chris Brown‘s candid revelations about his dating life during Kai Cenat’s livestream. The R&B superstar’s appearance quickly became a trending topic, with fans—and Jess herself—sharing their reactions. During a conversation with Kai, Chris openly discussed his relationship status. When Kai directly asked if he was seeing someone, the singer casually replied, “I’m in multiple relationships.”

During an interview on The Breakfast Club, Jess claimed that comments made by Chris might have been a subtle jab at her. According to the comedian, Chris had previously teased her about dating another man named Chris, which she described as the type of behavior you would expect from a “bitter ex.” Jess didn’t hold back; she added that Chris had bragged about purchasing a $400,000 ring for a woman. In a humorous twist, she decided to showcase her own ring in response. This prompted Charlamagne and DJ Envy to test its authenticity on air, and it turned out to be real.

Chris Brown’s Biggest Purchase Points To Possible Relationship With Jess Hilarious

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A post shared by The Shade Room (@theshaderoom)

Seeking clarification, Kai asked if Chris meant he had “more than one girlfriend,” to which Chris confirmed, “Yeah, something like that.” This response sent fans into a frenzy and didn’t go unnoticed by Jess, who provided her own sharp humor on the matter. Jess Hilarious’ comments on the show, paired with her trademark wit, sparked a wave of reactions online. Fans flooded social media with their inquiries. Some found her hilarious, while others questioned the purpose of her remarks.

One Instagram user joked, “This is how I talk to my friends with any Chris Brown update [crying face emoji],” while another quipped, “Wait, they dated? [crying face emoji].” Others embraced the humor, with one writing, “Not liking Jess Hilarious feels illegal [crying face emoji] she’s so funny,” and another declaring, “May your delulu come trululu [prayer hands emoji].” However, not everyone was on board, as one commenter asked, “I love you, girl, but what was the point of saying this?”

[Via]

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Kendrick Lamar’s “Squabble Up” Headed For A #1 Debut

November 24, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Kendrick Lamar’s GNX album is projected to be the biggest release in 2024 with his anticipated track, “squabble up,” leading the way. The song, originally teased in July, is on pace to debut at #1 on the Billboard Hip-Hop charts. It has already topped the Apple and Spotify charts after Lamar released the album on Friday (Nov. 22). The song was teased at the beginning of the music video for Lamar’s Grammy-nominated hit “Not Like Us.” Fans couldn’t get enough of rapping the song’s intro verse, “Woke up looking for the broccoli.”

“Squabble Up” has accumulated over 3.2 million views on YouTube and over 14 million streams on Spotify. The song samples Debbie Deb’s 80s classic “When I Hear Music.” The legendary singer would comment on Lamar’s use of the classic on Friday. She tweeted, “I’m excited and honored to be on Squabble Up! Thank you @kendricklamar for keeping Old Skool alive!.” The iconic sample joins others like Luther Vandross’ “This World Was Mine” and 2Pac’s “Made N***as.”

Kendrick Lamar’s “Squabble Up” Coming For That #1 Spot

Despite “squabble up” taking center stage, the buzz around the album shows no signs of waning. The album is receiving widespread acclaim for its bold themes and incisive lyricism. The conversations it has ignited—both within the music industry and beyond—demonstrate Lamar’s extraordinary talent for provoking thought and stirring emotion, one line at a time. Lamar’s release follows a huge year for Top Dawg Entertainment that saw the release of new music by Schoolboy Q, Ab-Soul, and Doechii.

In a single day, GNX accumulated over 44 million streams on Spotify. The addition of “wacced out murals” and “squabble up” has earned Lamar a record-breaking five #1 hits in 2024. The streak began with “Like That,” Kendrick earned #1 hits with “Not Like Us” and “Euphoria.” “Not Like Us” received seven Grammy nominations for the 58th award. The Grammy-nominated hit united Los Angeles hip-hop in July at the iconic Pop-Out concert.

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Kendrick Lamar Aiming For Biggest Hip-Hop Album Streaming Debut Of 2024 Since Drake

November 24, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Kendrick Lamar’s new album GNX has already been a massive success, especially when considering that it arrived without notice. The Compton rapper unleashed the project this Friday (November 22), taking supporters by surprise. It’s been rumored for months that he had something on the way, but regardless, nearly everyone was caught off guard.

According to Talk Of The Charts on X, the project is expected to have the second biggest hip-hop streaming debut in the U.S. this year, with roughly 350-400 million projected streams. This would put Kendrick just behind Drake, whose album For All The Dogs earned 514 million streams in its opening week. This is ironic considering their viral lyrical battle a few months back, which by most accounts, Kendrick won.

Kendrick Lamar’s New Album Sees Immediate Success

Kendrick Lamar Aiming For Biggest Hip-Hop Album Streaming Debut Of 2024 Since Drake — Apr 23, 2017; Indio, CA, USA; Kendrick Lamar performs during the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival at Empire Polo Club. Zoe Meyers / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

With that being said, Kendrick fans didn’t even know GNX was coming, whereas Drizzy spent plenty of time promoting FATD. Regardless, these are impressive accomplishments for both performers and certainly something to brag about. Kendrick’s unexpected drop has had social media users in shambles in recent days, as countless fans, critics, and peers give their reviews. This includes TDE’s Top Dawg, who took to his Instagram Story this weekend to issue a cryptic warning. “Dot is a dangerous man right now,” his post began. “Everything I thought he would be at 16 years old is here right now. Everybody stand down. I promise you.”

Lil Wayne, on the other hand, appeared confused that he got called out for his reaction to Kendrick’s upcoming Superbowl Halftime Show performance. “Man wtf I do?! I just be chillin & dey still kome 4 my head. Let’s not take kindness for weakness. Let this giant sleep. I beg u all. No one really wants destruction, not even me but I shall destroy if disturbed. On me. Love,” he wrote on X.

[Via]

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