Boosie Badazz is once again sparking controversy with new statements. This time in a recent Instagram live, he discussed how R. Kelly’s hit catalog can stand up to anyone else. “Nobody got more hits than R. Kelly. You gone’ have to put him in a Verzus with Spotify,” the controversial rapper began. Where fans really began to question his take was when he brought up Michael Jackson. “Hit for hit, he would blow Michael Jackson,” Boosie claims. “How many Michael Jackson songs you know and how many R Kelly songs you know? Aint nobody got more hits than Kellz. Y’all don’t wanna keep it real ‘cause he in the position he in.”
The claim sparked controversy for a number of reasons. Almost any discussion of R. Kelly is bound to spark controversy due to the extent of the allegations against him and the severity of them. But during the livestream even more fans were making the case that Michael Jackson, while controversial in his own right, is the more definitive hitmaker. Fans flexed commercial accomplishments Jackson had achieved as examples of why he would win in a Verzuz battle.
Boosie Badazz Claims R. Kelly Could Beat All Of Spotify In A Verzuz
Boosie Badazz has long advocated for both Kelly’s music and leniency for his crimes. He called for a lowering of Kelly’s 30-year sentence claiming that some people only 20 years for murder. While he doesn’t apologize for Kelly’s actions he believes the rapper can help make a difference if he’s released.
Boosie is also involved in some legal trouble at the moment. Yesterday he learned that a judge refused to dismiss recent gun charges, meaning they will head toward a trial. The charges date back to an arrest for felony gun possession that took place in June of this year. It’s only the most recent in a decades-long series of legal battles for the rapper. What do you think of Boosie Badazz’s claim that R. Kelly would beat Michael Jackson in a Verzuz? Let us know in the comment section below.
Much like Ice Spice, hip-hop has seen a rapid come-up unfolding for Sexyy Red over the past few months. While she certainly hasn’t taken things to the same level the 23-year-old is at, she did match her “Princess Diana (Remix)” with Nicki Minaj by recruiting the Queen of Rap to join forces with her for “Pound Town 2.” In addition to that, NLE Choppa has been showing Sexyy plenty of love as she continues to grow, as has Travis Scott. The latter brought the salacious spitter out during his set at Wireless Festival earlier this month. They were later seen turning up at the club together, with Latto also in attendance.
Like most female rappers, the Missouri-born artist has gotten her share of hate too, mostly for the NSFW nature of her content. Regardless of what critics have to say, however, Red continues to move forward with total confidence, which is exactly what listeners admire about her. In particular, her work has caught the eye of TikTok star Aliyah, who’s also known for pushing boundaries with her bold fashion choices. Seeing as the two embody similar energy, it’s really no surprise to find out that the social media influencer is one of Sexyy’s biggest fans.
“Sexyy Red is my Michael Jackson,” Aliyah tweeted just a few days ago, making it clear that the redhead is someone she looks up to. While not everyone was able to understand where the TikToker is coming from with her comparison, the 25-year-old saw it as an opportunity to crack the perfect joke. “HeeYee!!!” Red wrote back, referencing her incredibly popular “SkeeYee” single, as well as Jackson’s iconic adlib.
As Sexyy Red continues to crack the internet up with her candid commentary and perfect puns, others are using songs from her Hood Hottest Princess album to earn some attention of their own. Among them is 41-year-old La La Anthony, who faced criticism for twerking along to one of the St. Louis native’s most popular songs in a now-deleted TikTok. Read all about that at the link below, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.
The Weeknd is him. With his latest international shows, The Weeknd’s After Hours Til Dawn tour has become the best-selling tour by any Black artist all-time. The Weeknd’s run currently sets at $350 million in ticket sales, besting Michael Jackson’s 1987 Bad World Tour, which did $311 million.
During his recent show, The Weeknd performed his rendition of “Dirty Diana,” writing on Twitter, “my king. then, now and forever. rest easy.”
The Weeknd just passed Michael Jackson as having the number one best-selling tour by a Black musician this week, with his “After Hours Til Dawn” Tour grossing over $350 million in ticket sales alone. He paid his respects to the late King of Pop when he eclipsed this monumental milestone. However, there was another rapper waiting in the wings to stake his claim that the Toronto R&B artist was always going to dethrone the 1980s musical legend.
Meek Mill posted on Twitter, saying that “I always thought [The Weeknd] was [going to be] bigger than [Michael] Jackson.” He congratulates Abel Tesfaye, a.k.a. The Weeknd, for his achievement, with the apparent wisdom to know this was in the cards anyways. He proclaims in the Tweet that he used to hang out in the hood and dish out hot takes, like how Tesfaye looked like Michael Jackson out there performing. Seeing as The Weeknd was nothing but gracious and grateful for Michael, we wouldn’t say that he’d necessarily think the same way.
Of course, this claim would’ve been bolder if Meek Mill had mentioned it before The Weeknd blew the previous tour record out of the water. Still, it’s always good to see contemporary hip-hop artists dapping each other up, and Meek giving The Weeknd his deserved flowers is a wonderful sight. The two have collaborated a few times before, including the Meek Mill song “Pullin Up” from his 2015 album, Dreams Worth More Than Money.
Meek has been offering his opinions left and right recently. He discussed The Weeknd another time when the AI-generated song “Heart on My Sleeve” made the rounds. Artificial intelligence used The Weeknd and Drake’s voice likenesses to create a wholly original song. Meek Mill loved the song, listening to it on repeat and asking the duo to make some new music together. While he caught flak for boosting the AI-generated track, he still has a point: The hip-hop world could use some new Drake-Weeknd collaborations.
Abel Tesfaye, better known as The Weeknd (or maybe as “Tedros Tedros” from his rat-tailed character on HBO’s The Idol), is breaking massive records. The crooning R&B artist destroyed a previous tour revenue record held by the one and only Michael Jackson. The Weeknd’s “After Hours Til Dawn” Tour is now the highest-grossing tour ever by a Black artist. The current tour has raked in over $350 in ticket sales alone. Add in merch and concessions, and this tour is going to be one of the most financially successful music events of all time.
Michael Jackson held the record since 1987 when he went on his “Bad” Tour. Adjusting for inflation, MJ grossed $311 million during that time and ended up number two on the list of richest tours of the 1980s. Pink Floyd’s “A Momentary Lapse in Reason” Tour took the top spot. Flashforward to now, The Weeknd was aware of the impending record and quickly nabbed the highest-grossing tour of the 2020s decade. When he cruised right past the King of Pop, he made sure to give the late great musical genius his flowers.
“[My] king. [Then], now and forever. [Rest] easy,” is what the caption says on The Weeknd’s Tweet. A video from a fan’s perspective captured him on stage, singing his rendition of the Michael Jackson hit, “Dirty Diana.” Renamed “D.D.,” he sings it live as an homage to surpassing Michael’s tour record. He is still on the road, going international this year. The “After Hours Til Dawn” Tour concluded its North American stint back in September 2022. The multi-country tour will end the international portion on October 25th of this year in Guadalajara, Mexico.
As for the record of highest-selling tour of all time, that accolade belongs to Sir Elton John. His “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” recently concluded and pulled in a whopping $910 million over 320 separate shows. It’s tough to beat the most popular pop singer of all time. But beating out Michael Jackson is still an impressive feat for The Weeknd. He’ll look to continue his rampant cultural influence with the tour and the TV screen.
According to several confirmed reports, Wade Robson, a very talented choreographer, is suing the late “King of Pop” Michael Jackson. Robson claims that he was sexually abused by Jackson when he was a young child. Robson, known for his talent with famous performers, is now trying to receive justice and compensation for the terrible things he says the famous musician did to him.
This intense legal battle is happening in a Los Angeles courtroom, which Robson, who is now in his mid-30s and at the best time of his life, says is a scary story about his claimed emotional pain. Robson contends that he seeks monetary compensation for the harm he endured. He says he was molested many times, starting when he was seven years old until he was a teenager.
On Monday, the California Court of Appeals has approved the lawsuit from the 40-year-old to sue MJJ Productions, which overturned the 2021 decision to dismiss the case.
This enormous, public case created a lot of discussion ands controversy., even though Jackson was cleared of child molestation charges in 2005. His reputation is still surrounded by problems due to continuous claims of sexual wrongdoings. This new lawsuit from Robson brings an interesting and thought-provoking angle to the story, raising important questions about the unknown aspects of the musician’s life.
People who disagree say that Robson’s late accusation makes his claims less credible. They are not sure if repressed memories can be trusted, and they think Robson might have other reasons for accusing, like wanting money. However, people who support and help those who have been abused highlight the suffering that victims experience. They carry a heavy weight of shame, fear and pressure from society, which often makes it difficult for victims of sexual abuse to speak out about their painful experiences.
This fight between Robson and Michael Jackson’s estate is likely to lead to many complicated legal questions. Jackson died unexpectedly in 2009, but. Robson’s lawsuit brings attention to the time limits for filing a legal case. Also, it could create new rules for similar cases against people who have passed away.
As the court case continues, people around the world are watching closely and feeling nervous about what will happen between Wade Robson and the complicated history of Michael Jackson. It also raises important questions about how society should handle the actions and reputation of public figures.
Offset showed off another bold look yesterday at Dior’s Paris Fashion Week menswear runway show. The artist channeled Michael Jackson, sporting a black military-style jacket with red details and gold buttons. He paired the jacket with a pair of blue jeans and a flashy gold belt buckle. The rapper also finished off the look with a pair of black gloves and some shades. The Dior fashion show featured models rising up from the floor to walk the runway.
Offset rocked another outfit inspired by the “Bad” artist last month. He attended the premiere of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse with his three sons, and the family wore coordinating outfits. His three children wore black leather, while Offset wore a red satin jacket. The rapper’s outfit was decorated with countless buckles and studs. He, again, paired the outfit with a pair of black gloves. Offset also recently accompanied his two daughters, Kalea and Kulture, at the premier of The Little Mermaid. The trio walked the carpet, and fans loved their looks. Offset was seen in another bold jacket reminiscent of MJ, while his daughters wore extravagant, princess-inspired gowns.
Another artist to turn heads at this year’s Paris Fashion Week was Pharrell. He debuted his first collection on the runway as creative director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear earlier this week. He was also spotted at the Dior show, rocking some miniature sunglasses and a pricey bag. The yellow Louis Vuitton Speedy he’s been seen wearing is estimated to cost somewhere around $1 million.
Offset performed at Pharrell’s debut as Head of Menswear at Louis Vuitton. He performed “Ric Flair Drip,” from his album with Metro Boomin and 21 Savage, Without Warning. The event also featured a hit-filled performance by Jay-Z. Pharrell’s fashion show saw the support of countless other celebrity guests. Beyonce, Rihanna, Jay-Z, and more made appearances. Offset was photographed at the runway show alongside both Pharrell, Jay-Z, and more.
Quincy Jones’s career has left an indelible mark on the genre of jazz and commercial music as a whole. His seven decades-long career is filled with numerous instances of him becoming the first to achieve one musical feat or the other. Jones is also among the most decorated musicians of all time, earning multiple awards across music and film. A force to be reckoned with, Jones’s production discography has sold over 100 million units.
Jones made headlines days ago after he was rushed to the hospital due to an illness. However, the 90-year-old had a bad case of food poisoning and is recovering at home. In any case, Quincy Jones’ legacy is a truly enviable one, and the icon is still proving strong. The Chicago native will always be one of the most influential musicians ever.
Musical Beginnings
LOS ANGELES – 1981: Musician, composer and producer Quincy Jones poses for a portrait in 1981 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Bobby Holland/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Before building an untouchable career, Quincy Jones was a small-town aspiring musician in Chicago. After exhibiting a talent for music, he studied on a scholarship at the Schillinger House, now known as the Berkeley College of Music. It didn’t take long for his talents to garner attention, which led him to encounter and work with musical greats like Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and his inspiration, Ray Charles. He would later leave the United States for Europe and eventually settled in Paris. While there, he began to study composition under Nadia Boulanger and Olivier Messiaen.
Jones worked his way up for several years while working for Mercury Records. In 1961, he became the label’s vice president and was the first African American in the position. During this time, he began composing music for major motion pictures. These movies include The Pawnbroker, Mirage, Cactus Flower, and The Italian Job. He ventured into composing for television as well, creating the theme music for several popular shows, including Sanford and Son and The Bill Cosby Show.
The late ’70s and early ’80s significantly boosted Quincy Jones’s illustrious career. Jones and Michael Jackson worked together on the film The Wiz. This partnership led to Jones producing Jackson’s next three albums: Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad. All three albums would become some of the best-selling albums ever. Thriller, in particular, remains the best-selling album of all time. This trifecta made Quincy Jones the most sought after record producer in the ’80s.
Quincy Jones’ career took another shift, and he began to produce films. His debut film as a producer was The Color Purple, which became a cultural phenomenon. In 1985, he also used his status to reel in many notable musicians for the iconic song “We Are the World.” The star-studded single was produced by Jones, written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, and was recorded to raise money for the victims of famine in Ethiopia. “We Are the World” is one of the best-selling singles of all time.
Other Ventures
LOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 28 : Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones with Grammy Awards Jackson won at the 26th Annual Grammy Awards, February 28, 1984 at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by /Bob Riha Jr./Getty Images)
Quincy Jones has also become widely admired for his many activist and philanthropic efforts. He is a co-founder of the Institute for Black American Music. Jones is also the founder of the nonprofit Quincy Jones Listen Up Foundation, which connects youths with technology and music. An active supporter of many charities, Jones famously saved the homes and properties of elderly jazz musicians affected by Hurricane Katrina.
Quincy Jones’ Personal Life & Legacy
Jones has been married three times and has seven children. His most famous kids are his daughters, Kidada and Rashida Jones, whom he shared with the late actress Peggy Lipton. Kidada started her career as a celebrity stylist and now works as a designer for The Walt Disney Company. On the other hand, Rashida has starred in numerous films and TV shows, particularly The Office and Parks and Recreation. The music icon’s first and only son, also named Quincy Jones, followed his career as a music producer, while his youngest daughter, Kenya Jones, is a fashion model.
Over his 70-year career, Quincy Jones has received widespread acclaim for his work as a composer, producer, and arranger. With 28 Grammy wins, he is the most awarded African American man and the third person overall, behind Beyoncé and Georg Solti. He has received 80 nominations, making him the fourth most nominated musician at the ceremony. He was awarded the Grammy Legend Award in 1992. His life and achievements were showcased in the documentary Quincy.
In 2021, Jones was inducted into the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame. He was the first ever African American to be the musical director of the Academy Awards. In addition to this, he was the first African American to receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. He has been nominated for seven Oscars and is inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. In addition to these, he has also won an Emmy and a Tony Award.
Regardless of public controversy, the King of Pop’s legacy lives on, whether in people’s hearts or on massive stages. Moreover, Lil Kim made an impromptu appearance as a supporting act for Janet Jackson’s “Together Again” tour on Thursday (May 18) in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Specifically, the Brooklyn rap legend graced the stage as a replacement for Ludacris, another hip-hop icon, who was Janet’s supporting act save for that date. During her performance, she paid tribute to Michael Jackson with a dance and rendition of his classic track “Smooth Criminal.” Considering the gargantuan three-act set-up of the tour in massive venues, it must’ve been quite the show.
Of course, Lil Kim has gotten to that career point where she might receive similar tributes from other artists, or these artists speak on her profound influence on them. “My mom was a rapper, right?” Megan Thee Stallion expressed on the Hulu series RapCaviar Presents. “She was a female rapper, but I had never heard of women being rappers ever because my mom was listening to UGK, Three 6 Mafia. My daddy [listened to] Lil Wayne, like, we only listening to men in the house. But one day, my mom put on Lil Kim. Damn! She raps harder than a lot of these guys!”
In addition, the 48-year-old recently treated fans to a fun and era-blending show at Usher’s Lovers & Friends Festival. Along with her backup dancers, Lil Kim gave her own spin on Lil Uzi Vert’s smash hit track and dance, “Just Wanna Rock.” However you felt about that performance, you can at least say that it was heartening and enjoyable to see the star pay tribute to the newer generation. In a time during which hip-hop seemed more divided than ever, it’s nice to see the old and new guards move past the SoundCloud rap mentality and move further into supportive coexistence.
Meanwhile, she will always honor one of rap’s most enduring and influential figures: Biggie Smalls. “It’s always important to honor the king,” she expressed on his 50th birthday. “He’s the king. The king lives on. He’s just an amazing person, amazing artist … his legacy. It’s just great. Like, I mean, look at the catalog. Look at everything that he’s accomplished, even at such a young age.” For more news and the latest updates on Lil Kim, log back into HNHH.
Michael Jackson‘s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame will soon undergo restoration.
According to The Blast, Jackson’s estate filed their yearly documents for presiding over The King of Pop’s legacy, which included the costs incurred over the year. One of which was a $2,500 payment for the restoration of the landmark.
On the documents, the star’s work is listed as a charity.
According to Variety, in February, Michael Jackson‘s estate is finalizing a deal worth between $800-900 million dollars for the late artist’s music catalog. While there are not very many details on the deal, Sony and another possible financial partner are looking to buy 50% of the estate’s interest in Jackson’s publishing, music revenues, the “MJ: The Musical” Broadway show, and the upcoming “Michael” biopic “Michael, and maybe even more.
Sources close to MJ’s estate told TMZ they would never sell 100% of the catalog. They said that the only way that even a 50/50 deal would work was if they still retained 100% management and control of the record.
Michael Jackson’s estate reportedly close to finalizing $800M-$900M deal for 50% of singer’s catalog pic.twitter.com/oNlviU5mo4
If this deal goes through, it will become the biggest music catalog purchase in history. It would surpass Bruce Springsteen, who sold his catalog for $500 million to Sony.
This news comes just a week after MJ’s nephew Jaafar Jackson was announced as the lead in the Antoine Fuqua-directed Michael Jackson biopic Michael. “I’m humbled and honored to bring my Uncle Michael’s story to life. To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon,” he wrote on Twitter following the announcement.
I’m humbled and honored to bring my Uncle Michael’s story to life. To all the fans all over the world, I’ll see you soon.
rest easy 
