The “rags to riches” tale is a staple of hip-hop, so much so that on Wyclef Jean’s new song “Paper Right,” he’s able to recruit a whole posse cut worth of rappers to help him detail how to stack enough cash to retire a couple of generations. Interestingly, in addition to employing Pusha T, one of rap’s most notable street prophets-turned-business moguls, he also lends the spotlight to a trio of rising stars in Lola Brooke, Flau’jae Johnson, and singer Capella Grety.
The song is part of an outreach program by The Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America (TIAA) called Retire Inequality. According to the campaign’s website, its mission is to provide savings and investment information to Black Americans, who are likely to not have enough savings to retire. To that end, “Paper Right” references generational wealth multiple times, as well as investing advice, like real estate and side hustling; funnily enough, it might be the first time we’ve ever heard Pusha repudiate the drug game mentality that he’s espoused on basically every other thing he’s recorded (even those odd Arby’s jingles he did a couple of years ago).
All of those artists — save Flau’jae, who’s in the middle of LSU’s basketball season — appeared on The Tonight Show to perform the track last night. Check it out below.
Thanksgiving is approaching, and rappers are making a difference by hosting turkey giveaways. With food prices rising, artists like Quavo, Lola Brooke,Toosii, and others are stepping up to ensure that families in need can enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.
Hip-Hop Turkey Giveaways 2023
For the upcoming holiday, SOHH highlights the turkey drives organized by these artists and their impact on their communities.
DUBG3
DUBG3, a 12-year-old rap and football prodigy from Dallas, uses his platform to make a difference in his community.
As part of his Age Appropriate Movement, the Dallas native, along with support from legendary music executive Tony Draper and others, will be hosting a turkey drive in his hometown on November 21. Working with local organizations and businesses like Williams Smokehouse BBQ and Blues and Gordon Food Service, DUBG3 aims to distribute free turkeys and fixings to those in need on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Lola Brooke
Lola Brooke, New York City restaurant Sei Less, and fellow rapper Bleezy have joined forces to impact Thanksgiving positively.
The duo hosted a Thanksgiving meal at the Children of Promise organization in Brooklyn on November 20, serving approximately 150-200 youth between the ages of 6 and 18, whose parents have been impacted by the criminal justice system. With a wide range of dishes from Sei Less, a renowned Asian Fusion restaurant frequented by celebrities, Lola and Sei Less co-owner Dara Mirjahangiry provided a memorable dining experience for young individuals.
Rappers of 1017
Artists signed to Gucci Mane’s label, 1017, are making a difference in their hometowns with turkey giveaways. Li Rye organized a turkey giveaway in Mobile, Alabama, on November 20, with the event promoted by local radio station 93 BLX. Mac Critter is volunteering at his church in North Memphis, helping them distribute turkeys to the community on November 18.
Additionally, fellow Memphis rapper Sett is hosting a turkey drive in the South Vegas area of Memphis on November 21. These rappers are using their platforms to support their communities and ensure that needy families can enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.
Young Dolph’s IdaMae Foundation and Paper Route Empire
The late Memphis rapper Young Dolph’s foundation, the IdaMae Foundation, and his label, Paper Route Empire, continue to honor his legacy through their annual “Dolph Day.”
On November 17, “Dolph Day,” they included turkey drives, community dinners, and donations in Young Dolph’s hometown of Memphis, as well as in Chicago and Atlanta. These initiatives aim to support needy families and bring some holiday joy to the communities that the late rapper held dear.
As Gucci Mane’s artists and Young Dolph’s foundation give back, the 1017 Records CEO recently honored the late Young Dolph in his latest project. Young Dolph, a fellow rapper and friend of Gucci Mane, was featured on Gucci’s latest album, Breath of Fresh Air.
Toosii
North Carolina rapper/singer Toosii recently held a turkey drive in his hometown of Raleigh.
On November 13, over 100 turkeys were given away at a local church, with Toosii emphasizing the importance of giving back to his community. Attendees expressed their gratitude and took pictures with the rapper, showing their appreciation for the turkey giveaway.
With Turkey Day around the corner, celebs are giving back.
Quavo, one-third of the renowned rap trioMigos, is going beyond his musical talents this Thanksgiving season. The multi-talented artist recently hosted Huncho Farms, an open-air Thanksgiving-themed farmers market. In addition to this, the Georgia native has released the Huncho Farms Cookbook, featuring family holiday recipes and healthy cooking tips.
‘Huncho Farms’
Quavo surprised his fans and followers by taking to social media on Monday, November 20, to reveal his exciting plans for Thanksgiving.
The rapper hosted his Huncho Farms, where he and his team collaborated with various partners to distribute over 21 THOUSAND pounds of food to more than 700 individuals in 51 different Georgia zip codes.
The resource partners and in-kind donors, including Second Helpings, Foodwell Alliance, Westside Future Fund, and more, played a crucial role in making this initiative a success.
Quavo Says He’s ‘Extra Grateful’
Quavo expressed his gratitude towards everyone involved in a social media post by Quavo Cares, stating:
“Stepping into Thanksgiving weekend feeling extra grateful! Shoutout to our amazing partners and resource partners for helping us serve the community and distribute substantial amounts of food. We’re not done yet.”
But Quavo’s efforts don’t stop there. In conjunction with the Huncho Farms event, the former Migos member has also released the Huncho Farms Cookbook.
This cookbook, presented by Quavo Cares, Urban Recipe, and Atlanta Community Food Bank, features mouthwatering recipes and valuable cooking tips for a healthy holiday season. As a part of the release, the cookbook is available for download, making it accessible to anyone interested in trying out Quavo’s family holiday recipes.
Dr. Umar Calls Out Rappers Who Do Turkey Giveaways
While rappers often give back during the holidays, there are differing opinions about the impact of these giveaways. In a recent interview, activist/psychologist Dr. Umar Johnson voiced his frustration with rappers hosting turkey drives in Black communities while simultaneously promoting violent lyrics in their music.
Thanksgiving is approaching, and rappers are making a difference by hosting turkey giveaways. With food prices rising, artists like Lola Brooke,Toosii, DUBG3, and others are stepping up to ensure that families in need can enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.
Hip-Hop Turkey Giveaways 2023
For the upcoming holiday, SOHH highlights the turkey drives organized by these artists and their impact on their communities.
DUBG3
DUBG3, a 12-year-old rap and football prodigy from Dallas, uses his platform to make a difference in his community.
As part of his Age Appropriate Movement, the Dallas native, along with support from legendary music executive Tony Draper and others, will be hosting a turkey drive in his hometown on November 21. Working with local organizations and businesses like Williams Smokehouse BBQ and Blues and Gordon Food Service, DUBG3 aims to distribute free turkeys and fixings to those in need on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Lola Brooke
Lola Brooke, New York City restaurant Sei Less, and fellow rapper Bleezy have joined forces to impact Thanksgiving positively.
The duo hosted a Thanksgiving meal at the Children of Promise organization in Brooklyn on November 20, serving approximately 150-200 youth between the ages of 6 and 18, whose parents have been impacted by the criminal justice system. With a wide range of dishes from Sei Less, a renowned Asian Fusion restaurant frequented by celebrities, Lola and Sei Less co-owner Dara Mirjahangiry provided a memorable dining experience for young individuals.
Rappers of 1017
Artists signed to Gucci Mane’s label, 1017, are making a difference in their hometowns with turkey giveaways. Li Rye organized a turkey giveaway in Mobile, Alabama, on November 20, with the event promoted by local radio station 93 BLX. Mac Critter is volunteering at his church in North Memphis, helping them distribute turkeys to the community on November 18.
Additionally, fellow Memphis rapper Sett is hosting a turkey drive in the South Vegas area of Memphis on November 21. These rappers are using their platforms to support their communities and ensure that needy families can enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.
Young Dolph’s IdaMae Foundation and Paper Route Empire
The late Memphis rapper Young Dolph’s foundation, the IdaMae Foundation, and his label, Paper Route Empire, continue to honor his legacy through their annual “Dolph Day.”
On November 17, “Dolph Day,” they included turkey drives, community dinners, and donations in Young Dolph’s hometown of Memphis, as well as in Chicago and Atlanta. These initiatives aim to support needy families and bring some holiday joy to the communities that the late rapper held dear.
As Gucci Mane’s artists and Young Dolph’s foundation give back, the 1017 Records CEO recently honored the late Young Dolph in his latest project. Young Dolph, a fellow rapper and friend of Gucci Mane, was featured on Gucci’s latest album, Breath of Fresh Air.
Toosii
North Carolina rapper/singer Toosii recently held a turkey drive in his hometown of Raleigh.
On November 13, over 100 turkeys were given away at a local church, with Toosii emphasizing the importance of giving back to his community. Attendees expressed their gratitude and took pictures with the rapper, showing their appreciation for the turkey giveaway.
With Turkey Day around the corner, celebs are giving back.
Dr. Umar Calls Out Rappers Who Do Turkey Giveaways
While rappers often give back during the holidays, there are differing opinions about the impact of these giveaways. In a recent interview, activist/psychologist Dr. Umar Johnson voiced his frustration with rappers hosting turkey drives in Black communities while simultaneously promoting violent lyrics in their music.
In a heartwarming collaboration, hip-hop artist Lola Brooke, Sei Less NYC celebrity restaurant, and fellow hip-hop artist Bleezy joined forces to bring Thanksgiving cheer to Children of Promise in Brooklyn on Monday evening. The event catered to 150-200 youth, ages 6-18, whose lives have been touched by the criminal justice system.
Lola Brooke and Sei Less co-owner Dara Mirjahangiry treated the young attendees to a delightful array of dishes from Sei Less. Since its opening in January 2022, this Asian fusion restaurant has swiftly become a favored spot for celebrities such as Cardi B, Kevin Hart, Travis Scott, and more.
Children of Promise is a community-centered organization dedicated to supporting children and families affected by mass incarceration. It stands out as the only NYC agency seamlessly providing therapeutic empowerment services and youth development under one roof, aiming to dismantle stigma and address trauma in Black and Brown communities.
Beyond serving meals, Lola engaged with the kids, participated in a dance contest, answered questions, and shared her personal experience dealing with her father’s incarceration. Her words of wisdom, delivered with her mother by her side, added a touch of inspiration to the evening, creating a memorable Thanksgiving celebration for all involved.
These female artists are making waves in the music industry. From major collaborations to new projects and exciting achievements, these artists are taking the entertainment world by storm. Megan Thee Stallion is making money moves, Lola Brooke is set to release new projects, Coco Jones has received a Grammy nomination, and more.
Lola Brooke With A Newly Released Project
After high anticipation for the drop of her new project, New York rapper, Lola Brooke has finally dropped her DENNIS DAUGHTER album. The album features notable artists like Bryson Tiller, Coi Leray, French Montana, Latto, Nija, and Young Miami.
Billboard has officially announced that Coco Jones will be MTV’s “Global Push Artist” for November 2023. This news comes amid Jones’ one-year anniversary of her What I Didn’t Tell You album.
— Coco Jones Source | 5x Grammy Nominated (@CocoJonesSOURCE) November 10, 2023
Megan Thee Stallion: The Flamin’ Hottie Back On Campus
Amid her “COBRA” music video’s release, Thee Stallion returned to her alma mater, Texas Southern University for her “Flamin’ Hottie Campaign.”
The campaign aims to equip young adults with the tools to converse openly about mental health with their peers. Megan’s involvement in the campaign comes after the challenges she faced in the media, making her highly anticipated comeback all the more meaningful.
Megan Thee Stallion is currently in Houston,Texas @ TSU for her Flamin Hottie Campainpic.twitter.com/maKiu5JSk5
Milwaukee born rapper, Lakeyah, has released her new single, “No Hesitation.”
The single was originally teased on Instagram a couple of weeks ago which garnered a significant amount of attention. The release of her new single comes after her joint tour with Lebra Jolie and BIA on the Really Her Tour.
Cardi B & Patti LaBelle Get Cookin’
Music iconPatti LaBelle has joined forces for a seasonal partnership with Cardi B and her Whipshots alcohol-infused whipped cream.
The pair released pictures teasing the Goodlife Pies + Whipshots collabo and showcasing their camaraderie and culinary skills. Fans are excited for the sweet collaboration.
Beyoncé has dropped a second trailer for her highly-anticipated “RENAISSANCE: A Film By Beyoncé,” which is set to hit theaters worldwide on Dec. 1. However, what has caught the attention of fans is the revelation that the film’s duration has been extended by an extra 20 minutes.
Missy Elliott, the iconic artist known for her innovative contributions to hip-hop and pop culture, has made history as the first female rapper to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
With a mesmerizing performance showcasing her hits, the hip-hop icon demonstrated why she has etched her place in music history. Additionally, fans can expect new music from Halle Bailey and Missy as they were recently spotted in the studio together.
As the highly anticipated second season of Rap Sh!t, created by Issa Rae and showrunner Syreeta Singleton, approaches, the duo sat down with SOHHto discuss the evolving landscape of female rap. Issa and Syreeta expressed their excitement for the diversity and abundance of female rap artists, such as Sexyy Red and Ice Spice, highlighting the need for more recognition of unique perspectives within the genre.
Saweetie recently unveiled her latest news, including a “passion project” and a highly anticipated album. During an interview with Flaunt Magazine, she shared her excitement about working on music with the hunger she had when she first began her career.
On Monday Nov. 6, Mariah The Scientist, opened up with comedian Desi Banks and Waka Flaka on a fun episode of their podcast “We Playin’ Spades.” The singer discussed her admiration for her boyfriend rapper Young Thug, how she started making music and how her music motivates and encourages women.
Flyana Boss: The New Women In Rap
Los Angeles, California rap duo, Flyana Boss recently performed their viral single, “You Wish” for MTV’sWomen In Rap event.
The pair can be seen rocking the crowd in neon colors, kanekalon, and superhype energy. This performance can only lead to bigger and better opportunities for the group in the future.
Flyana Boss performing their track “You Wish” for MTV’s #WomenInRap event.
Philly rapper, Tierra Whack, has released her first song in two years, titled “Chanel Pit.” The music video on YouTube has garnered over 60,000 views within 3 hours of its release.
This may be the song of the year if the count keeps rapidly rising as it is. Prior to the release of her newest single, Whack dedicated her time posting fun, colorful content for her fans to enjoy.
Asian Doll Releases New Music Visuals
After the March release of her song, “Party,” the Dallas rapper, Asian Doll, has released a teaser for the coinciding upcoming music video. The Bratz-themed video is very purple and very upbeat. It could possibly be a spin-off to her role model Nicki Minaj’s “Barbie World” concept.
Asian Doll previews upcoming video to her track “Party.”
After being on mommy hiatus, DaniLeigh has returned to the scene with some exciting news for her fans.
To celebrate the end of the 140-day writer’s strike, Leigh took to her Instagram to announce her acting debut where she was cast as the lead role. Just in time for the holidays, the singer worked alongside notable names like LazRael Lison, Romeo Miller, Tamar Braxton, and Skyh Black for BET+’s Christmas Angel.
Leading up to her debut project, Dennis Daughter, arriving today (November 10), Lola Brooke kept fans interested with a well-planned rollout. Singles like “You” and “Pit Stop” preceded her work, showing how the East Coast icon can hold her own alongside seasoned emcees like Bryson Tiller and French Montana. Plenty of her female contemporaries later came through to help Brooke too, including Latto, Coi Leray, and Yung Miami.
Ahead of sharing her album with the world, the “Don’t Play With It” hitmaker hosted a listening party in her home state. Unfortunately, a new report from Page Six alleges that things didn’t go exactly as planned after an alleged pepper spray incident at the Soho venue. “I was partying in the back having a good time and all of a sudden I could not breathe. My throat started to burn and my eyes teared up,” one attendee dished to the publication. “I think too many people were trying to get too close to her in her VIP section so the situation had to be handled with mace,” they hypothesized.
Lola Brooke Party Patrons Allegedly Left Due to Mace Spray
Lola Brooke attends The “Dennis Daughter” Listening Party on November 07, 2023, in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
Brooke’s team told Page Six they “were unaware of that incident” taking place. Though the lyricist was seemingly unbothered by the chemicals in the air, many others “desperately dashed to the bathroom – and to the bar – for water to flush their eyes and throats.” Others opted to simply leave the party early. “I could not breathe, and had to leave, I could not take it. I honestly don’t know where it came from. One minute everyone was drinking and vibing to her music, the next minute people were coughing, choking and gasping for air. Everybody except Lola though,” another attendee noted.
Now that Lola Brooke’s debut LP has finally hit streamers, the rising starlet is already busy planning her next creative ventures. We’re impressed with the roster of collaborators she tapped for Dennis Daughter and can’t wait to hear who else she’ll be hitting the studio with next. Tap into Brooke’s 12-track album at the link below, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.
Lola Brooke may be small, but she’s still a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Now that her debut album, Dennis Daughter, has finally landed on DSPs, it’s more evident than ever that the femcee isn’t coming to play as her star continues to rise. The 12-track effort comes after singles like “Pit Stop” featuring French Montana and “You” with Bryson Tiller. Before that, Brooke also dropped off the “Don’t Play With It” remix in tandem with Latto and Yung Miami.
The only previously unheard features to appear on Dennis Daughter come from Coi Leray and Nija on “Don’t Get Me Started.” The rest of Brooke’s debut finds her delivering rhymes by herself, from “Intro (2023 Flow)” to the penultimate track, “God Bless All The Rappers.” Hip-hop heads are already offering plenty of braise to the New Yorker for her hard work on social media, and more is sure to roll in as she racks up streams this weekend.
Just days before unleashing her album, Brooke reminded us how much range she has by assisting Shenseea on a new single, “Beama,” paying homage to the latter’s Jamaica roots. “Even D1 players couldn’t hold up / Body like milk, nah, coca’,” the black-haired beauty confidently gasses herself up over the London on da Track produced beat.
Get a taste of Dennis Daughter by streaming “I AM LOLA” above. If you’re feeling that, make sure to find the full album on Spotify/Apple Music. To hear more of Lola Brooke’s braggadocious bars, check out her new collaboration with Shenseea at the link below.
Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn has been the launching pad for some of the most impactful acts in hip-hop: Big Daddy Kane, Jay-Z, Lil Kim, Mos Def, and The Notorious B.I.G. have all claimed the neighborhood in New York’s biggest borough. A new rapper looking to live up to that legacy is Lola Brooke, the pint-size punchline purveyor who broke out in 2021 with “Don’t Play With It” and is about to release her debut studio album, Dennis Daughter.
Since then, she’s received co-signs from industry vets like Lil Kim and contemporary hitmakers like A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, been highlighted by her hometown’s premier festival, Hot97 Summer Jam, played Coachella alongside Latto, and been featured as a member of the 2023 XXL Freshman Class. And all of that was before announcing the release of her debut album.
Here’s everything we know about Dennis Daughter.
Release Date
Dennis Daughter is due November 10 via Arista Records.
Tracklist
01. “Intro (2023 Flow)”
02. “I Am Lola”
03. “Don’t Get Me Started” Feat. Coi Leray and Nija
04. “Best Side”
05. “Pit Stop” Feat. French Montana
06. “It’s Me Again”
07. “You” Feat. Bryson Tiller
08. “Vacant Heart”
09. “Dear Dennis”
10. “Shelter Baby (Be That B**ch)”
11. “God Bless All The Rappers”
12. “Don’t Play With It” Feat. Latto and Yung Miami
Shortly after confirming that her debut album is on the way, Lola Brooke continues to make her presence felt with a new collaboration. So far in 2023, we’ve heard the rising star connect with acts like French Montana, Bryson Tiller, Latto, and Yung Miami. This New Music Friday (November 3), it was Shenseea who Brooke joined forces with as the island gyal channelled her Jamaican roots for an infectious new single called “Beema.”
Shenseea’s beau, London on da Track came through with production, alongside Dready and Philip Cornish. The song begins with a sample of Louie Rankin setting the tone, declaring, “Don’t you ever bring scared business to me. You’re lookin’ at the toughest rassclaat Jamaican in the United States of America.” When it’s her turn to show off her rhyming skills, the mother of one doesn’t hold back, spitting “You gon’ make me flash on a b**ch like paparazzi / I’m too fly to crash out, but f**k it, kamikaze” as the first verse concludes.
For her part, Brooke closes “Beema” out with big energy. “Even D1 players couldn’t hold up / Body like milk, nah, coca’,” she gasses herself up, perfectly matching Shenseea’s confidence. In the accompanying music video, both women glow while showing off for the camera, riding around in a Rolls Royce together before stopping outside a Miami store to rhyme the rest of the track.
Check out Shenseea’s latest visual for “Beema” featuring Lola Brooke above. If you think the song will be in rotation for you this fall, you can find it on Spotify/Apple Music. For more information on the New Yorker‘s highly anticipated album, click the link below, and for more HNHH release recommendations check back later this weekend.
I be main dish, you the side piece Lipstick red like a Ferrari You gon’ make me flash on a b**ch like paparazzi I’m too fly to crash out, but f**k it, kamikaze
| don’t question me. (@theeemprasss) 
