Though he will probably continue to rep his hometown of Compton forever, Kendrick Lamar appears to be on the move. The rapper is reportedly undergoing a major move for himself, fiancé Whitney Alford, and the couple’s two children. According to All Hip Hop, the pair are finalizing the paperwork to purchase a penthouse at Brooklyn’s The Pierhouse near Brooklyn Bridge Park. The spot he’s getting reportedly has an asking price of $8.99 million but that’s for a good reason. The excess space both indoor and outdoor and the incredible view of the Brooklyn Bridge and skyline are hard to put a price tag on. Check out the view below.
The Pierhouse has also long been rumored to be the residence of Ed Sheeran, giving them plenty of familiarity working with superstars. Jay-Z and Beyonce are also reportedly considering picking up property there according to 6sqft. Just last week, Kendrick Lamar was announced as a headliner for Tyler, The Creator’s Los Angeles staple Camp Flog Gnaw music festival. He will join a stacked lineup including SZA, Baby Keem, Ice Spice, Earl Sweatshirt, and many more performing at the fest.
The news of Kendrick Lamar moving forward with this penthouse purchase comes just a few weeks after he reportedly toured a different residence in town. That place was reportedly going for an even more extravagant $10 million price tag. The news of this purchase also comes just a few weeks after Noname called out Kendrick by name in a song on her new album.
Though Kendrick Lamar released his new album Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers last year he hasn’t been quiet since. Earlier this year he teamed up with Baby Keem once again for the single “The Hillbillies.” He also linked up with Beyonce for a remix of her Renaissance fan-favorite “America Has A Problem.” What do you think of Kendrick Lamar moving from California to Brooklyn and buying a $9 million penthouse? Let us know in the comment section below.
Lizzo has been making headlines over the past few weeks about the alleged treatment of her dancers. Now, it appears it’s not the first time a situation has come up between them.
In 2022, Lizzo’s documentary, Love Lizzo, premiered on HBO Max. During one of the scenes, a group of dancers assist Lizzo in rehearsals for the 2019 MTV Video Music Awards and open up about their experiences in the field. However, according to the Los Angeles Times, the dancers later claimed that the footage appeared in the film without their consent or knowledge. Because of this, they also weren’t paid, and Lizzo was a producer on the project.
The publication notes that the dancers’ manager, Slay Smiles, sent an email to the Boardwalk Pictures’ attorney, Alan Brunswick, on January 17.
“After seeing all of the videos, I’m sure you realize how sensitive and private the dialogue was for the talent involved,” Smiles reportedly wrote. “This was supposed to be a safe space to express and share with the Principal talent [Lizzo], so by sharing this unauthorized footage to the public without their approval/permissions, has truly exploited these women and violated the emotional safety they had in those moments.”
The situation escalated when one of the dancers hired an attorney about the matter. Because of this, “Boardwalk Pictures, a Lizzo entity and other parties” signed a confidential settlement where the dancers were then paid and released their rights to appear in the documentary.
Lizzo’s lawyer, Martin Singer, also added that the issue was resolved by the production company and that she “had nothing to do with it and knew nothing about it.”
Lizzo is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
Summer may be coming to a close in the US but music festival season is really a global chase for endless summer (if you have the means to travel). Going someplace steamy when it’s cooling down back home is a huge selling point for many music-loving vagabonds. Plus the US summer season isn’t over yet — Burning Man, Imagine Music Festival, Borderland Music & Arts Music, and Life Is Beautiful are all on the horizon. Hulaween, Portola Festival, Joshua Tree Festival, Tomorrowland Brazil, Groove Cruise, and more are on the way.
With more music to come, we tapped the Queen of Rolling Loud, Bunny Zingler. The fashion icon — who takes a 360 approach to self-expression through music, fashion, and beauty at festivals — just wrapped up her on-site activation at last month’s most powerful hip-hop music festival in history with her exclusive Forever 21 collection, bridging the gap between fashion and festival culture. The collection draws inspiration from the 90s and Rolling Loud’s home base of Miami with a variety of pieces including checkered bodysuits, colorful cargo pants, fitted graphic crop tops, and palm tree-emblazoned matching sets – a nod to the city’s vibrant nightlife scene and lively culture.
To prepare for the rest of this year’s and beyond festivals, we asked Zingler to walk us through how to properly prep and pack for your for a fest while also showcasing some personalized looks from her latest Forever 21 collection.
PART I – How To Prep
KAY GRAY
Schedule Out Beauty Treatments:
I try to plan any particular beauty treatments that take more time and healing at least two weeks before Rolling Loud or any other festival. One of these beauty treatments is usually a facial with my esthetician. Depending on how my skin is doing at that time, I either opt for a chemical peel or something a bit less invasive like an intense hydra-facial. Around this time I also like to check in on my routine teeth cleaning, hair removal process, baby botox, and root touch-up for my hair.
This is also the time when I would be planning all of my outfits and start packing little by little.
Work Out:
After completing anything painful and invasive, my second phase of prep is what I like to call the “good uncomfortable.” I really enjoy getting in good workouts that make me feel stronger. Lifting and stretching before Rolling Loud helps me ensure my body is ready to take on the heat and all the dancing I’ll be doing! I make sure to maintain a good diet even outside of prepping for special events but even more so leading up to them.
I try to get in a lot of protein, carbs, water, and minerals leading up so I know my body has the utmost fuel.
Self-Care & Last-Minute Errands:
Getting a little closer to Rolling Loud, I like to implement a lot of healing properties and self-care by doing things that make me feel good and look good. I always make sure I have my outfits completely prepped and packed, leaving just toiletries, makeup, and hair items to be packed for later on, a little closer to the event. Some of the things I enjoy during this time are definitely aloe pop face-sicles that I make at home, as well as getting a lot of rest. Rolling Loud is three days long, and with all the time and prepping beforehand and also in the moment, it really is crucial to make sure you’re fueling your body and setting yourself up for success to ensure you have the best time ever.
Along with this, I finish any last-minute errands, work, and home chores to make sure everything at home is good to go — leaving no loose ends to worry about.
Grab The Fun Essentials
After completing all of the above, I’m almost ready! Now it’s time for fun stuff like full body exfoliation, a spray tan, and a dope new set of nails. Aside from these, all I have to do now is pack up my hygiene, hair, makeup, and get an awesome hydration and vitamin IV before I really start the party. Quick tip for arrival – as soon as I get to Rolling Loud or any festival I attend, I also find the nearest supermarket and buy a case of water and my favorite go-to snacks to have on hand after a long day/night.
PART II – Packing Essentials
KAY GRAY
Electrolyte Packets:
These are most important for me because whether you’re consuming alcohol or not, you’re still getting pretty active going back and forth to stages while hopping and bopping around to your favorite music, especially at a festival like Rolling Loud where we have so many stages and acts I want to see. Staying hydrated is the number one festival essential for me.
Face & Body Sunscreen:
Finding a face sunscreen that works for you is almost like finding a precious gem. I swear it’s taken me years to figure out a sunscreen that works for my skin and doesn’t leave me worried about pesky breakouts or potential allergic reactions to chemicals. Do the research and start finding that for yourself as soon as you can – it will really help your skin for the long run and also in the present. Nothing’s worse than being burnt while you’re having fun – that’s the type of issue that would prevent me from fully enjoying my time.
Setting Spray:
Setting spray is super important to me! Usually, I opt for an aerosol setting spray for long-wearing makeup events like music festivals where you’re outside most of the day. For some reason, I think it just works a lot better than a traditional spray
Your Trusty Pair of Sneakers or Shoes:
I have certain shoes that are just my “festival shoes.” These are ones I’ve already broken in and don’t mind getting a little roughed up. Try to always have your feet, ankles, and toes protected at a festival for your safety.
Sunglasses:
Sunglasses because, well, they protect your eyes and always look super cool. If the setting spray flops and your makeup starts melting – sunglasses! I always try to bring an inexpensive pair because I end up losing them throughout the night. So make sure to pack a few pairs!
Hair Bands:
You or someone else will always need a hairband. Sometimes you wanna live in the moment and let your hair down without it actually flying in your face or sticking to you…hair bands !!!
A week ago, Polo G announced his fourth album, Hood Poet. At the moment, though, he’s got something else to deal with: TMZ reports that Los Angeles police raided Polo’s home today (August 23).
The publication has video and photos of the situation and notes that multiple vehicles and officers from the Los Angeles Police Department were at the rapper’s San Fernando Valley mansion (that he bought for $5 million in 2021). They were there carrying out a search warrant and they ordered multiple people (including Polo) out of the house and handcuffed them while they conducted their search.
Law enforcement sources reportedly told TMZ that the warrant was in connection to a robbery and that four suspects have been taken into custody, but have not yet been booked. A Polo G representative told the publication that the rapper has been detained as part of an active investigation, but that he is not the focus of the investigation. TMZ was reportedly told that “Polo will update his fans and supporters when the time is right.”
Hood Poet, Polo G’s first album since his No. 1 LP Hall Of Fame, is set for release on September 15. A few days after announcing the project, the rapper shared a video for “Barely Holdin’ On.”
Public Enemy and Ice-T have joined forces to help honor Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary. General admission to The National Celebration of Hip Hop event will be free with registration. The big show will take place at West Potomac Park on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., from Friday, October 6th, to Saturday, October 7th, 2023. Pre-registration opens Wednesday, August 23rd, at 10 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. A waitlist was created for fans, and tickets will be available at NationalCelebrationofHipHop.com. Free tickets are on a first-come, first-served serve, according to a press release.
Additionally, VIP party and travel packages will be available for purchase. Pre-sales for the exclusive VIP parties will begin August 23rd at 10 a.m. ET. The event will also feature various activities, “including guest speakers, comedians, and public figures, as well as interactive events and exhibits throughout the day celebrating this monumental moment in music and history,” the press release reads.
Sugarhill Gang, Kurtis Blow, And More To Appear
Credit: Chasing Live/Art Of Rap
Aside from Public Enemy and the Law & Order actor, there will be several performances from other Hip Hop icons. From Kurtis Blow and Kid ‘n Play to Soulsonic Force and Roxanne Shante, this once-in-a-lifetime event will help highlight the artist who made the genre what it is today. CL Smooth, Melle Mel and Scorpio, The Sugarhill Gang, Peter Gunz, DJ Kevie Kev Rockwell, Mad Skillz, MC Sha-Rock, Busy Bee, Joe Ski Love, and Positive K, among others, will also make an appearance. According to the release, more artists will be announced soon. With a line-up this packed, it’s sure to be an amazing show.
“Hip hop is beyond, not just a musical genre,” Chuck D said in a recent statement. “It’s a cultural movement that has dominated art, fashion, politics, poetry, academia, film, and every corner of the world for the past 50 years. This National Celebration brings it all together in one place for the people, by the people.” Ice-T added: “We are coming to the National Mall itself to bring you authentic Hip Hop for the 50th celebration!”
EST Gee is the latest rapper to freestyle for On The Radar, using his appearance, Tuesday, to paint vivid images of violence and more. Other artists to perform on the show include Drake, Central Cee, Cash Cobain, Bobby Shmurda, Ice Spice, and many more.
“It ain’t about no paper, it’s a favor when it’s Uncle Sam/Passion in our action, go get active if you understand,” Gee raps in the freestyle. The performance was met with ample praise in the comments section on YouTube. “EST Gee, you never disappoint when making music,” one fan wrote with fire emojis. “You’re a HUGE inspiration to my music career.” Another commented: “Bro too underrated fr I’d say he’s probably the best street rapper out right now like no cap lil baby ain’t fw bro.”
BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI – APRIL 15: Rapper EST Gee performs during Kodak. Black & Friends Concert at Mississippi Coast Coliseum on April 15, 2023 in Biloxi, Mississippi.(Photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)
EST Gee’s On The Radar freestyle comes just days after the release of his latest project, El Toro 2. Across the 20-track effort, Gee teams up with 42 Dugg, Yo Gotti, Lil Baby, Rylo Rodriguez, and the late Static Major, among others. It follows his 2019 debut mixtape, El Toro. Gee also released El Toro: The Short Film as well as a music video for his Lil Baby collaboration, “I Think.” Check out EST Gee’s freestyle for On The Radar below.
EST Gee Freestyles For “On The Radar”
Fans will be able to see Gee perform live, later this year, as he embarks on The El Toro Tour. The shows will kick off on September 26 in Charlotte, North Carolina. He’s got concerts set for Baltimore, Boston, Hartford, Chicago, San Francisco, Atlanta, New Orleans, San Antonio, and several more cities throughout the fall. Tickets for the concert dates are on sale now. Be on the lookout for updates on the tour as it kicks off on HotNewHipHop.
Jhene Aiko and her longtime partner Big Sean are reportedly seeking legal protection against an overzealous fan, according to TMZ.
According to the outlet, the fan, who is reportedly named Ian Craig Lees, has shown up at several concerts of Sean’s and Aiko’s, as well as events where either of the two have appeared on the bill, and even at Aiko’s Pacific Palisades home.
In documents obtained by TMZ, Aiko claims that the 29-year-old Lees is a stranger to her, but is apparently determined to meet and make contact with her. Aiko also noted that she fears for her life, as Lees has become more and more relentless.
In another incident, Aiko claims Lee had breached security within her gated community and allegedly got into a physical altercation with a security officer in the neighborhood. He also allegedly entered Aiko’s home, which she shares with Sean and her two children.
Aiko reportedly attempted to obtain a temporary restraining order against Lees, which would keep him from coming within 100 yards of her, Sean, and her children. However, the request was reportedly denied by a judge.
The aforementioned judge has reportedly scheduled a court hearing on the matter to take place on September 14.
It’s all “Good Good” in the hood in Usher‘s latest video, which finds him teaming up with fellow ATLiens 21 Savage and Summer Walker for a nostalgic ballad about remaining friends after a relationship ends. “Usually my exes turn to enemies,” Usher croons in his verse, “But this is different / ‘Cause we don’ got closer now that you ain’t with me.” Summer, meanwhile, wishes her ex “good sex and good sleep,” while 21 jokes that he’ll still “have you grabbing them sheets” while offering to “help pay for the wigs and I help with the lease.”
The video itself opens with the three artists standing on a bridge overlooking the highway with the city’s downtown skyline as a backdrop. Usher, dressed in a classic Atlanta fit — a baggy sweatsuit, complete with a wave cap, chains, and gold teeth — does his choreo solo while the scene around him changes from day to night and back (he also dances in a waistcoat, which is some wild styling, even for him). Walker lounges in a well-appointed hotel room in her scenes, bedecked in a bathrobe (with matching slippers!) and a headwrap. For his part, 21 Savage eats solo at a restaurant with a mirror image of himself, each side chowing down on a seafood meal representing his rags-to-riches status.
Lizzo’s been making headlines as of late after she was sued by three of her former backup dancers earlier this month. The dancers made some serious accusations against the performer, surrounding alleged sexual harassment and workplace misconduct. According to the suit, she fat-shamed one of them, and even pressured them to attend risqué nude performances and engage with entertainers in a suggestive way. The lawsuit managed to shake up Lizzo’s fanbase, who have known her to be a powerful advocate for body-positivity, woman empowerment, and more.
Following news of the lawsuit, several additional former employees have come forward with allegations against Lizzo. With that being said, she denies any wrongdoing, claiming that she’s being falsely characterized in the suit. She called the allegations “false,” stating that her “work ethic, morals and respectfulness” were being called into question. She received further backlash for the lack of accountability in her statement. The 35-year-old, however, is sticking to her guns. According to TMZ, Lizzo’s attorney Marty Singer has even shared plans to hit the dancers with their own lawsuit.
Dancers Were “Happily Cavorting Backstage,” Lizzo’s Attorney Says
Lizzo plans to sue the backup dancers who are taking her to court, according to @TMZ.
Her attorney says the new surfaced photos show Lizzo’s accusers returned to the topless cabaret a month later and took photos with the performers. pic.twitter.com/IgE2XQa9im
New photos show Lizzo’s dancers backstage at one of the nude shows mentioned in the lawsuit. The photos were taken around a month after the alleged incident, showing the dancers returning for another evening out. According to Singer, the photos tell a different story than what was portrayed in the suit. He claims the dancers were “happily cavorting backstage,” and “gleefully reveling” in the show. They appear to be smiling and enjoying themselves in the photos, but that’s not to say their allegations are false.
“Of course, they wanted to keep their jobs,” the dancers’ attorney Neama Rahmani says of the images. “They had bills to pay just like everyone else but they finally had enough of the abuse. We stand by every claim in the lawsuit and look forward to trial.” Rahmani went on to claim that she’s in talks with other former employees with stories of alleged misconduct. “We’re seeing even more of a pattern of just how much Lizzo thinks of those who work for her,” she says, “Clearly, not very much.”
Jennifer Hudson’s ascent to stardom began on a platform where many dreams have found wings—the renowned show American Idol. Though she did not claim the title, her appearance on the show was merely a prelude to greater things. With a voice that could move mountains, Hudson was destined for stages far grander, and her talents didn’t go unnoticed. As stated by CAknowledge, her net worth would grow to an impressive $35 million in 2023, reflecting her outstanding early trajectory.
Hitting High Notes: Career Highlights
NEW YORK, NY – JANUARY 27: Recording artist Beyonce and recording artist Jennifer Hudson. Attend the Clive Davis and Recording Academy Pre-GRAMMY Gala and GRAMMY Salute to Industry Icons Honoring Jay-Z. On January 27, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)
A music, film, and theater career has given Jennifer Hudson many accolades. From the Academy Award for her role in Dreamgirls to Grammy triumphs for her soulful renditions, her trophy shelf is as versatile as her talent. Unforgettable performances in The Color Purple on Broadway and soul-stirring albums like I Remember Me have further cemented her place in the annals of entertainment royalty.
The Woman Behind The Diva: Personal Life & Triumphs
LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 26: Singers Stevie Wonder (L) and Jennifer Hudso attend the 2016 BET Awards at the Microsoft Theater on June 26, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Paras Griffin/BET/Getty Images for BET)
Jennifer Hudson’s life has also been a symphony with its fair share of crescendos and dolorous interludes. Through personal tragedies and setbacks, she has displayed remarkable resilience, echoing the emotional depth of her artistic expressions. As a mother, partner, and an individual constantly evolving, her personal life has been a testament to her strength and authenticity.
Encore For Entrepreneurship: Business Ventures
CHICAGO, IL – AUGUST 05: Actress Jennifer Hudson makes a surprise appearance and introduces the movie “Respect”. At the screening at AMC River East Theater on August 5, 2021 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Barry Brecheisen/Getty Images)
Beyond her commanding presence on stage and screen, Hudson has ventured into the business world with elegance and savvy. Partnerships with renowned brands, investments in creative startups, and a keen eye for opportunities have further added a fascinating business melody to her life’s composition. The diversification of her portfolio is as well-orchestrated as any of her musical masterpieces.
Moreover, Hudson’s commitment to making a difference resonates beyond her art. Involved in various charitable organizations, children’s education, and humanitarian efforts, her philanthropy echoes the compassion and empathy present in her soulful ballads. It’s no mere performance; it’s a genuine dedication to change, as rich and profound as her voice.
Hitting The Final Note: The Jennifer Hudson Phenomenon
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 18: Jennifer Hudson at Mastercard’s Strivers Celebration event honoring Black women entrepreneurs across the U.S. At The Apollo Theater on August 18, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Shannon Finney/Getty Images for Mastercard and Create & Cultivate)
With a repertoire spanning various genres and mediums, Jennifer Hudson is a dazzling figure in the modern entertainment landscape. Her professional and personal achievements compose a compelling talent, perseverance, and grace story. Overall, the net worth of $35 million in 2023 is a well-deserved reflection of her contribution to the art world.
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