Noname Calls On Black Artists To Gatekeep Their Art

Noname recently made a powerful statement on Instagram, as she urged Black artists to gatekeep their art. Moreover, she shared some statements on Thursday (January 19) about how Black art is exploited by white audiences or white-owned mediums. While the Chicago native paused her music career, she continues to engage in important and impactful activism, action, and dialogue.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 21: Singer Noname performs onstage during the ‘Room 25’ tour at The Wiltern on February 21, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)

“One of the biggest mistakes i believe we’ve made in our struggle towards liberation in this country is allowing white america unfiltered access to our entire culture,” she wrote. “White america has created an institution of violent policing and medical neglect that is killing us EVERY F***ING DAY. and every day we get on their platforms (tik tok, twitter etc.) and we create trends, music, art and language that they turn into billions.

“Twitter admits in their guidelines that they disclose account information to law enforcement,” she continued. “They literally are the police. We do not own Black culture. We create it.”

Moreover, she connected the exploitation of hip-hop today to the evolution of blues and jazz music in U.S. history.

“Do yall never think, maybe white people don’t organize to end economic/racist exploitation that black people face simply because they love consuming the art we make out of survival,” the Room 25 rapper stated. However, her statement was more nuanced than skeptics likely assume.

“As black artists making black art, we have a responsibility to our community and to our culture,” she expressed. “I understand needing to survive under capitalism but there is power in collective action! what would it look like if we all said, unless festivals, streaming, social media puts 10% of their profits into a black community fund we use to house and feed people, we will no longer contribute our content.

“I’m about to play coachella because i need the bread,” she went on. “Trust, i’m not above anybody but if there was a collective boycott where ALL black artists refuse to share our work unless we see radical change in our conditions, i would immediately do that s**t.”

Furthermore, she engaged in a respectful back-and forth in the comments, even if they weren’t returning respect in kind. For example, for those quick to judge her Coachella appearance, she revealed some hardened circumstances.

“I stopped playing shows for yearsss! for the exact reason i’m talking about and nothing happened,” the 31-year-old responded to one user. “I’m not a big enough artist for them to care. Sorry but i’m not about to have my mom on the street unless EVERY artists willing to make that sacrifice. I almost [did] that shit and never again.”

Regardless, what do you think of Noname’s call to Black artists to gatekeep their work? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest from your favorite artists.

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Summer Walker Has Questions After Yung Miami Admits She Likes Getting Peed On

Summer Walker has questions for Yung Miami after the City Girls rapper admitted that she enjoyed golden showers.

During the latest episode of Caresha Please, the City Girls rapper admitted that she enjoys getting peed on. The comment took Trina back, who further asked for clarity from Miami.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – OCTOBER 09: Yung Miami of City Girls performs onstage during Day 2 of the 2022 ONE MusicFest at Central Park on October 09, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)

“Golden showers? Meaning when a guy pees on you?” Trina asked. “Pee on you everywhere? You like it?”

“I don’t know, it just do something for me,” Miami said.

Needless to say, Twitter and social media at large and a lot to say about the revelation. Shortly after the clip went viral, “Pee Diddy” began trending on Twitter.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – MAY 07: Summer Walker attends the Strength Of A Woman Festival & Summit State Farm Arena Concert at State Farm Arena on May 07, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Strength Of A Woman Festival & Summit)

However, Summer Walker needed some answers from Miami. She slid in the comment section of The Neighborhood Talk’s Instagram post where she asked for specifics, such as water intake and the color of the urine.

“I have genuine questions about this, no judgment. Like do you require a certain level of water intake before this or it doesn’t matter?” she wrote. “I’m saying is it that clear oderless pee or that stankin dark yellow hennessy infused perc 30 black n mild hotwing piss.”

Miami has yet to respond to Summer Walker’s question but perhaps, this is a conversation that should be had on Caresha Please.

Check out the latest episode of Yung Miami’s Caresha Please with Trina below.

Polo G Denies Unfollowing Gunna

The rap game continues to distance itself from Gunna, who faced allegations of snitching after copping an Alford plea. Law experts said Gunna didn’t snitch but the streets (and social media) claim otherwise. Lil Baby and Meek Mill unfollowed Gunna online and then, fans believed that Polo G did the same.

PARIS, FRANCE - JANUARY 18: Polo G wears a black and white checked sweater and silver necklace, outside Givenchy, during Paris Fashion Week - Menswear Fall-Winter 2023-2024, on January 18, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Claudio Lavenia/Getty Images)
PARIS, FRANCE – JANUARY 18: Polo G wears a black and white checked sweater and silver necklace, outside Givenchy, during Paris Fashion Week – Menswear Fall-Winter 2023-2024, on January 18, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Claudio Lavenia/Getty Images)

The Chicago rapper denied this to be true in a series of Instagram posts. Polo G said that he never unfollowed Gunna because he never followed the YSL rapper to begin with.

“I wasn’t never followin’ him to unfollow up,” Polo G wrote. “Y’all be on my dick.”

Afterward, he stated that he’s not following any trends or watching anyone else’s moves. Polo G explained that he minds his business, which is why he’s never involved with any drama.

“I don’t follow up behind nobody, I make my own decisions as a man and I do a good job at mindin my business,” he wrote. “U don’t see me in shit for a reason.”

Polo G added, “I don’t fuck with n***as good or bad simple and plain.”

Nearly a month after his release from prison, Gunna made his first post on Instagram where he revealed he was locked in the studio. At the same time, he called for Young Thug and Yak Gotti to be free.

“N***as acting like they switching to a side,” he wrote. “But it’s only one side . #YsltheLabel #FreeThug&Yak GUNNA BACC!!!!!”

Many labeled Gunna a hypocrite since prosecutors could use his plea to as evidence to convict Young Thug. Gunna’s attorney said that his client would plead the fifth if asked to testify against Young Thug and the rest of the co-defendants in the YSL case.

Instagram Set to Debut New ‘Quiet Mode’ Feature

Instagram Set to Debut New 'Quiet Mode' Feature

On Thursday, Instagram announced its latest feature, “quiet mode,” geared to help users focus and set boundaries with their followers.

The feature will send automatic replies to followers who try to message you letting them know you were not notified of their message. Additionally, the profile’s activity status will change to alert followers that quiet mode has been turned on. This update is one of several changes on Instagram today, including expanded parental control tools and other tools to manage recommendations. Its parental controls allow parents to filter out posts with specific words in their captions and hashtags. Instagram had already allowed users to filter out DMs with a self-made list of potentially harmful or offensive content. Still, the expanded filtering option will enable users to tailor their feeds more granularly than before.

While anyone can access this feature, the company said it would prompt teen users to enable it if they use the app late at night. Social media addiction is a behavioral disorder in which young adults become so addicted to social media and cannot reduce or cease their online media consumption despite clear negative consequences and severe drawbacks. According to CNN, US teens spend an average of more than seven hours per day on screen media for entertainment, and tweens spend nearly five hours, a new report finds, and that doesn’t include time spent using screens for school and homework.

Instagram is one of the world’s top social platforms, with at least 1.440 billion users worldwide as of July 2022. Quiet mode will initially be available in the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

The post Instagram Set to Debut New ‘Quiet Mode’ Feature appeared first on The Source.

Drake Pens Message On Instagram About Telling Truths

Drake recently shared a message on his Instagram story about how 2023’s the year for his truths. Moreover, he posted it in classic Drake fashion: the fancy Instagram font, a black screen, and an oddly cryptic message. While people might assume they’re about his fame, artistry, relationships, or advice, Drizzy has… a different idea, apparently.

TORONTO, ON – DECEMBER 27: Rapper Drake leaves the court following the NBA game between the Toronto Raptors and the LA Clippers at Scotiabank Arena on December 27, 2022 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images)

“Gonna start using 2023 to tell you my truths,” the “Nice For What” MC began. “I have seen more staff and private bathrooms than anybody ever… whenever you are waiting in line to use the bathroom just know there’s an amazing clean private room that they refuse to show you.”

Now, your guess is as good as mine as to what that could mean. Moreover, is he literally talking about the fancy private bathroom, or is he practicing his bars for an upcoming single? Is the fancy private bathroom all the success they don’t want you to have?

Jokes aside, Drake’s cryptic message was laughed at but also respected, even envied by some. “Is dis rich people problems ? cuz if so i want em,” one user wrote. “[Too] rich for me to understand” another wrote, with a particularly skeptical fan writing “This is not about bathrooms.”

Still, the 6 God does have a lot of “truths” to talk about, whether it’s his success or his controversies. Most recently, he debuted his “Jumbotron S**t Poppin” video with $3.3 millions worth of Pharrell’s jewelry. While his commercial success in hip-hop and pop is practically undefeated, his cultural impact and status shouldn’t be questioned either.

However, his recent collab album with 21 Savage, Her Loss, got him as many accolades as it did criticism. Subliminal bars aimed at Megan Thee Stallion shook the rap world for some time, dividing many fans. Since then, much of that discussion had died down. Still there’s no denying that Drake has his fair share of things to address. Of course, he doesn’t need to, but I guess it’s up to him to decide what he’ll say this year.

What do you think of Drake’s odd Instagram message and his commitments to his “truths”? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, check back in with HNHH for the latest on the genre’s top dogs.

50 Cent Reacts To Flo Rida Winning Lawsuit, He Responds In Comments

50 Cent just shouted out Flo Rida for winning an $82 million lawsuit against Celsius Energy Drink after he claimed they owed him money and stock. From one hip-hop entrepreneur to the other, it seems a million dollars worth of game can take you up to 82 of those. Moreover, Flo even responded to 50’s IG post, which was a headline of the “Right Round” rapper’s victory.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 10: Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson attends WE TV’s “Hip Hop Homicides” New York Premiere at Crosby Street Hotel on November 10, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)

“[Flo Rida] is a good dude Celsius was wrong and they are going to have to pay now,” Fif wrote. “I was only drinking it because Flo was involved. Money by monday!”

Furthermore, the Queens rapper is also celebrating his inclusion in Usher’s Lovers & Friends festival in May of this year. However, Flo’s unfortunately not scheduled to play. Still, he appreciated 50’s support in the comments section of his shout-out.

“Love you my brother,” the 43-year-old responded. “Always appreciated and a true inspiration to this situation in way you’ve accomplished in your ventures.”

Moreover, the “In Da Club” rapper is known for being one of hip-hop’s most prolific and successful businessmen. Readers may know his forays into television, which netted him both commercial success and cultural acclaim. Recently, he spoke on crossing his worlds over when Eminem and Snoop Dogg were on set for BMF.

However, back to Flo’s case, he just won a lot of money for Celsius’ breach of contract. Some attorneys from the case clarified what the victory means and exactly how this came about.

“He’s entitled to 500,000 shares of stock via the contract, and entitled to 250,000 shares of stock if certain things happen,” attorney John Uustal explained. “One of those yardsticks is that a certain number of units of products need to be sold, but unfortunately the contract doesn’t specify which type of unit—is it a box, is it a drink? And there’s no timeframe or deadline.”

What do you think of 50 Cent’s shoutout to Flo Rida’s victorious lawsuit and the Florida rapper‘s response? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, check back in with HNHH for the latest on the rap game’s most successful entrepreneurs.

Chrisean Rock Apologizes To Blueface While Detailing Mental Health Struggles

Chrisean Rock issued an apology to her family and Blueface after a public spat with Blue on Twitter.

On Wednesday, Chrisean Rock and Blueface hit each other with a series of insults following the backlash they faced from the latest episode of Crazy In Love. Chrisean Rock’s meeting with Blueface’s family nearly turned into a physical altercation between the rapper and his brother.

That’s when Chrisean accused Blueface of constantly dragging her down and neglecting her mental health.

ATLANTA, GA – SEPTEMBER 04: Chriseanroc and Blueface attend Atlanta Black Pride Weekend Pure Heat Community Festival at Piedmont Park on September 4, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)

Following their latest spat, Chrisean shared an alarming message candidly discussing her battle with depression. Firstly, she apologized to Blueface and her fans.

“I just need everyone to pray for me. I ran to social media for this cuz honestly I appreciate my fans n love to be very transparent. Hopefully, my darkness is someone’s light,” she wrote.

Chrisean further explained she’s suffered depression and attempted self-harm in the past, which she said caused her to distance herself from her family.

“I love God so much, I want [to] be in heaven so bad [and] I hate myself because maybe if I was better person, life wouldn’t Make me feel like dis,” she continued. “I neglect my mom my family sometimes cuz I keep telling myself I can be better. Once I’m better, I can love them but tbh it’s dark cloud over me it’s trynna consume me.”

She then acknowledged the effects that she began drinking more as a result of her depression and the significant media attention she’s received recently. Chrisean also admitted that drinking took a significant toll on her relationship with Blueface.

The rapper, who described himself as a “proud father,” applauded Chrisean for taking accountability for her actions.

“First step to fixing a problem is admitting you have one and reflecting on wrong decisions,” he wrote. “This is dope and best thing, no victim role here. This is accountability.”

Erykah Badu Remixes Sade’s “Love Is Stronger Than Pride” On Her Birthday

Erykah Badu shared a remix of Sade’s “Love Is Stronger Than Pride” in honor of the legendary singer’s birthday on Monday. Badu uploaded her version, titled “She Stronger,” in an Instagram post.

“‘She Stronger’ Sade remix programmed and performed live by e.b.,” Badu captioned a clip of the song. “Custom Gold and Woodgrain coffin for badu gold MPC live by @currycases.”

ATLANTA, GA – FEBRUARY 11: Erykah Badu speaks onstage during BET’s Social Awards 2018 at Tyler Perry Studio on February 11, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for BET)

Sade released “Love Is Stronger Than Pride” as the lead single for her band’s third studio album, Stronger Than Pride in 1988. Altogether, the album peaked at No. 7 on the US Billboard 200. It’s since been certified 3x platinum by the RIAA. It is widely regarded as one of Sade’s best works with Pitchfork naming it the 37th-best album of the decade.

The post came ahead of the announcement that Sade will be inducted into the Songwriters Hall Of Fame in 2023. The organization cited her key tracks as “Smooth Operator,” “No Ordinary Love,” “The Sweetest Taboo,” “By Your Side,” as well as “Is It A Crime.”

In addition to Sade, Snoop Dogg, Gloria Estefan, Jeff Lynne, Teddy Riley, and Liz Rose are being inducted. The induction ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, June 15 in New York City.

As for Badu, she last released a full-length project in 2015 with her mixtape, But You Caint Use My Phone. Prior to that, it had been another five years since her last studio album, New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh). In December 2022, Badu featured on RM’s debut studio album Indigo for the song, “Yun.”

Check out Erykah Badu’s remix on Instagram below.

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Joyner Lucas Roasts Usher For “Cheeto” Hair

Joyner Lucas trolled Usher on social media in response to the iconic singer’s new haircut. Usher had shared a video of himself with orange hair on Instagram, Monday.

“My n***a lookin like a flaming hot Cheeto #legend,” Lucas wrote in response to the look.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 18: Recording artist Joyner Lucas performs on stage at Viejas Arena on October 18, 2019 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Daniel Knighton/Getty Images)

Lucas wasn’t alone in making fun of the hairstyle. Another user wrote that Usher must be “going through a midlife crisis.”

In Usher’s original video, he used his viral “watch this” catchphrase to introduce the polarizing look. The remark went viral in 2022 after using it during his NPR Tiny Desk concert.

“I was blown away, I was shocked,” Usher told Twitter Music of the meme afterward. “I think I was in Los Angeles somewhere and they were like, ‘Yo, you know you going viral?’ I’m like, ‘It’s good, right?’”

He added: “Then I looked on and I saw a few people do it. Then I saw more people doing what I had done and it just kept going and kept going and I was like, ‘Wow, this is amazing. This is something special.’”

Outside of trolling Usher on social media, Lucas has been in the studio with Juelz Santana for his Gangsta Grillz mixtape with DJ Drama. Santana teased the collaboration on Instagram, earlier this month.

“Santana and Joyner Lucas, I’m not even going to say no other names. OMG. We In Motion on the fucking way,” Santana said.

As for Usher, he hasn’t released a solo studio album since 2016’s Hard II Love. However, he did team up with Zaytoven in 2018 for A.

Check out Usher’s Instagram video that Joyner Lucas was responding to below.

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