Today, Diddy’s legal team filed a request for an anonymous accuser’s lawsuit against him to be dismissed. The lawsuit accuses Diddy, former Bad Boy Records president Harve Pierre, and another unnamed man of sexually assaulting the plaintiff. Allegedly, the incident took place at an NYC recording studio in 2003 when she was 17. It also includes photos of her sitting on Diddy’s lap, which she claims were taken the night of the assault. His team argues that she lacks sufficient evidence, calling it a “false and hideous claim.”
“Mr. Combs and his companies categorically deny Plaintiff’s decades-old tale against them, which has caused incalculable damage to their reputations and business standing before any evidence has been presented,” the filing, obtained by TMZ reads. “Plaintiff cannot allege what day or time of year the alleged incident occurred, yet purports to miraculously recall the most prurient details with specificity. Accordingly, this case should be dismissed now, with prejudice, to protect the Combs Defendants from further reputational injury and before more party and judicial resources are squandered.”
Diddy’s Teams Argues That Alleged Victim Lacks Evidence
Sean “Diddy” Combs attends the 2022 Billboard Music Awards at MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 15, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)
Diddy’s team also points out the fact that a “trigger warning” was included with her suit. They called it “legally irrelevant” and “calculated to focus attention on its salacious and depraved” allegations. His attorneys also claim, “The sparse amendments to the original Complaint cannot remedy the falsehoods and incurable defects in the new pleading. Like the original Complaint, it fails to state any viable claim and must be dismissed.”
What do you think of Diddy filing to dismiss his anonymous sexual assault accuser’s lawsuit? What about his team accusing her of lacking evidence? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.
Tems has become a household name in a head-spinning amount of time. The Nigerian songstress went from critically acclaimed artist to pop star thanks to collabs with the likes of Future, Wizkid, and Drake. She even appeared on the soundtrack for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever in 2022. Tems is officially a big time name, and she hasn’t even dropped an album. At least, so far. She hopped on social media on May 10 to unveil the cover AND release date for her long-awaited debut.
The artwork for her debut album, Born In the Wild, is absolutely striking. The singer is barely illuminated against a black backdrop. All you can see is her eyes, her jewelry, and loose outline of her body. It fits her soulful, ethereal aesthetic to a T. The bigger revelation, though, was the album’s release date. Fans have been waiting for a Tems album for close to five years, so to call a proper release date a huge deal is an understatement. The singer confirmed that Born In the Wild will be dropping on June 7th.
This is my most special moment. Everything I have I put into this. Thank you all so much for believing in me. BORN IN THE WILD. JUNE 7th pic.twitter.com/ZCBXYDn4M9
Born In the Wild is a long time coming. Tems first teased the album’s existence in 2022 via X (formerly Twitter), and it was originally supposed to drop in May 2024. She didn’t reveal the reason for the delay, but she did reflect on feeling the pressure to deliver during a Billboard profile. The singer claimed she wanted to push the boundaries of what Nigerian performers could get away with. “Is it possible to make this type of music even though I’m Nigerian,” she asked the outlet. “Is there a limit to what I can make? I wanted to find out.”
Tems has released three singles ahead of the album’s release. “Me & U,” “Not An Angel,” and “Love Me JeJe” have all been warmly received by fans and critics.”Me & U” has done particularly well, earning an Outstanding International Song at the 55th NAACP Image Awards. Tems described each of these songs as being powerful because they came from an honest place. “I feed myself with truth and I pray a lot,” she told Apple Music. “I think attaining knowledge and gaining understanding is how you stay grounded.” Now that a proper release date has been dropped, the prayers of Tems’ fans have also been answered.
It’s been an undoubtedly busy few weeks for Metro Boomin, and fortunately for him, it hasn’t all been beef-related. According to TMZ, the award-winning producer performed for thousands of fans at The Egyptian Great Pyramids complex at the end of last month. The stage he performed on was right next to the Great Pyramid, The Great Sphinx, and the Pyramids of Khafre.
He first announced the performance in early April, telling fans, “In other news I’m doing a show at the Pyramids in Giza [head exploding emojis].” He also shared a poster for the event featuring him, the Sphinx, and the pyramids. Aside from performing, Metro also got the opportunity to visit with officials at the royal Abdeen Palace in Cairo.
Based on his social media activity, he was also able to do a bit of exploring during his visit to the Middle East. He posted a few photos of himself earlier this week posing alongside a camel. “From St. Louis to the pyramids,” he captioned one of the fun shots. It looks like Metro Boomin had a relaxing trip, but got right back to business when the show was over. Days after the performance, Metro Boomin unleashed on Drake in a heated Twitter rant, calling him out for some questionable past behavior. He later started a contest with his diss beat dubbed “BBL Drizzy,” offering up a cash reward for the best submission.
Shortly after that, some of Metro Boomin’s disturbing old Tweets resurfaced, reading “She might be young but she ready” and “Got your lil sister on them mollies she done ran thru the whole squad.” Since then, the nickname “Metro Groomin” has been thrown around, though he denies any wrongdoing. What do you think of Metro Boomin performing at the Egyptian Pyramids? What about him meeting with officials at the royal Abdeen Palace in Cairo? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.
Chris Kirkpatrick is famed as one of the original members of the globally successful boy band *NSYNC. He has reached a net worth of $10 million in 2024, according to CelebrityNetWorth. Known for his unique vocal contributions and magnetic stage presence, Kirkpatrick was integral to *NSYNC’s meteoric rise and has since pursued a varied career in music and entertainment. His journey from the pop scene to entrepreneurial ventures exemplifies his versatility and lasting influence.
*NSYNC’s Meteoric Rise & Cultural Impact
American boy band NSYNC, in the penthouse suite of the Chateau Marmont, Los Angeles, California, United States, January 2000. Left to right: Chris Kirkpatrick, JC Chasez, Justin Timberlake, Joey Fatone, Lance Bass. (Photo by Tim Roney/Getty Images)
Chris Kirkpatrick’s ascent to stardom began in 1995 when he co-founded *NSYNC alongside Justin Timberlake, JC Chasez, Joey Fatone, and Lance Bass. The group’s exceptional harmonies and captivating choreography catapulted them into global fame. They released iconic albums like No Strings Attached and Celebrity, featuring chart-topping hits such as “Bye Bye Bye,” “It’s Gonna Be Me,” and “Pop.” Kirkpatrick’s distinctive countertenor vocals contributed significantly to the group’s harmony-driven sound, setting them apart in a crowded boy band landscape. Their influence extended beyond music to define a generation’s fashion, style, and pop culture, solidifying their status as one of the biggest-selling boy bands in history.
Solo Projects, Collaborations, & Business Ventures
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 23: NSYNC members: (L-R) Lance Bass, Joey Fatone, JC Chasez, Chris Kirkpatrick and Justin Timberlake backstage at the 42nd Annual Grammy Awards, February 23, 2000 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Bob Riha, Jr./Getty Images)
Following *NSYNC’s hiatus in the early 2000s, Kirkpatrick explored other creative avenues, forming an alternative rock band, Nigels 11. This project showcased his passion for experimentation beyond the pop genre and his commitment to artistic growth. He also ventured into voice acting, lending his distinctive voice to animated characters in series like The Fairly OddParents. Kirkpatrick has remained active in television, appearing on shows like Gone Country and Celebrity Big Brother, demonstrating his adaptability and desire to explore diverse entertainment mediums.
Beyond music, Kirkpatrick’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to engage in business ventures aligned with his interests. He has participated in pop culture conventions and music events, where he reconnects with fans and celebrates *NSYNC’s legacy. Kirkpatrick’s continued engagement with music and entertainment reflects his dedication to expanding his career and influence.
Legacy & Philanthropy
HOLLYWOOD, CA – APRIL 30: Chris Kirkpatrick, Lance Bass, JC Chasez, Joey Fatone and Justin Timberlake of NSYNC are honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 30, 2018 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)
Additionally, Chris Kirkpatrick has been involved in philanthropic activities, supporting causes that are meaningful to him. He founded the Chris Kirkpatrick Foundation to support underprivileged children and families, emphasizing his commitment to giving back. His charitable work and varied career underscores a legacy built on artistic excellence and social impact. Overall, Chris Kirkpatrick’s net worth reflects his dynamic career trajectory from *NSYNC’s rise to global stardom to his solo projects and business ventures. His adaptability and resilience in navigating personal and professional challenges illustrate his unwavering passion for his craft and his lasting impact on pop culture.
Meek Millhas had his legacy called into question repeatedly online recently for a variety of reasons. It began with his new EP selling a pretty underwhelming amount of copies, something fans haven’t let him live down. Then just a few weeks later he was named in the lawsuit filed against Diddy by producer Lil Rod. Even though everyone involved has denied all of the allegations that didn’t stop fans from taking them at face value and attacking Meek online.
Now he’s beginning the steps of defending himself, starting with a 2023 interview with DJ Drama where he shut down Meek being the Jay-Z of his generation. To say his reaction came off a bit incoherent would be an understatement. “I give yall my honest without speaking on drake …. Bike life culture ‘meek billionaire culture connected to rap … really been through poverty the system ‘meek’ really changing laws ‘meek’ showed the most new artist love with my platform ‘meek’” his tweet reads. That led to a series of tweets where he defended his legacy and his place in hip hop. Check out the tweet that kicked the thread off below.
I give yall my honest without speaking on drake …. Bike life culture “meek billionaire culture connected to rap … really been through poverty the system “meek” really changing laws “meek” showed the most new artist love with my platform “meek” https://t.co/vtEe2eDOhF
Later tweets in the thread saw Meek trying to speak to his credibility as a social justice advocate. “I really changed like 4 laws that really help stop the cycle of probation for the average person coming up in our culture! Through Mike Rubin and Kevin hart I’ve donated and help bring millions to the city of Philadelphia! We have real job fairs with reform!” one post reads. “I been in all the jungles lifting communities up for years …. And my rap skills are incredible! Like really really good,” the series of posts concludes.
What do you think of Meek Mill’s bizarre Twitter rant attempting to remind fans of his status in hip hop? Do you think he made any compelling arguments in his series of posts? Let us know in the comment section below.
Rap beef is serious business. The long-simmering animosity between two of rap’s biggest stars, Drake and Kendrick Lamar, has finally come to a head — resulting in scathing diss tracks, countless memes, and even some violent real-world consequences. Because the verbal conflict has taken a bit of a dark turn, it’s probably advisable that all parties involved have a drink or two.
Yes, Kendrick is known to mostly abstain from alcohol and Drake has famously dubbed himself “Champagne Papi,” but the occasion really seems to call for bourbon. And one with some edge.
Bourbon’s boldness pairs perfectly with the brashness of the barbs each emcee sent to his opponent. And spirits are really best appreciated when they match the mood you’re trying to set. While the conflict is at a temporary standstill, you’re probably looking to catch up on every twist and turn, and there’s truly no better way to absorb all the animus and keep score than with the perfect pour.
Follow along for the best bourbons to pair with every Drake and Kendrick Lamar diss track.
Prior to Kendrick Lamar’s now-infamous “Control” verse, he and Drake seemingly shared a pretty warm relationship. That all soured when this song was released back in August of 2013. Mentioning Drake by name — among several other of his contemporaries — Kendrick challenged the entire rap game by saying, “What is competition? I’m tryna raise the bar high. Who tryna jump and get it? You’re better off tryna skydive.”
The Whiskey: Booker’s Springfield Batch, 2024-01
Booker’s is infamous for being the very first barrel-proof bourbon to hit the market in 1988. At the time it was an incredibly bold move, but it set the stage for the trend toward ever-higher ABV’s in American whiskey that persist today. Booker’s Springfield Batch 2024-01 is the first release from the brand in 2024 and will be followed by three more batches this year.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Marked by a floral aspect at first before exhibiting the trademark hazelnut quality that Booker’s is known for, this is a high-heat pour that doesn’t nose like it.
Palate: Once tasted, the interplay of floral flavors and nutty notes are elevated by the emergence of oak tones, allspice, and brown sugar.
Finish: The finish finds even more allspice and a touch of sage as the floral notes begin to crest and take control of the tasting experience.
Bottom Line:
This is the perfect pairing because only Booker’s can match Kendrick’s boldness in releasing “Control” back in 2013 when that particular class of rap stars was much more friend than foe.
Kendrick Lamar “Like That” with Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon
Yes, there were several thinly veiled shots exchanged between the rappers in the interim between “Control” and “Like That”, but while he didn’t actually say Drake’s name on this record — it was his most direct diss in over a decade making this the natural follow up to that first shot. In the song, Kendrick spurned the olive branch that Drake’s new bestie, J. Cole, extended on their collaboration “First Person Shooter.” In that song, J. Cole claimed that then rap game’s “Big 3” included himself, Drake, and Kendrick Lamar.
Rejecting the praise, on “Like That” Kendrick said “motherf*** the Big 3…it’s just big me.” which set the ball in motion for this recent back and forth.
The Whiskey: Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon
Blanton’s is known as “the Original Single Barrel Bourbon” and as such it’s become one of the most wildly popular bourbons on the market today. Each bottle is the product of a single barrel, meaning each bottle will taste slightly different.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: The aroma of candied maple, caramel, and vanilla ice cream jumps out of the glass right away. The mellow sweetness plays well against a backdrop of well-aged oak and fresh clove.
Palate: On the palate Blanton’s has a mellow baking spice presence, with clove and cinnamon leading the way, and rich caramel rounding things out. Nuance is provided by supporting sweet flavors like vanilla ice cream, brown sugar, and flaky pastry notes.
Finish: On the finish is where the gentle oak tones become most evident and they gently recede with the help of gooey butterscotch.
Bottom Line:
“Like That” is an upbeat song that became Future, Kendrick, and Metro Boomin’s first number-one single, and likewise Blanton’s is a runaway success too. The song is a bit light on lyrical sparring and Blanton’s is a bit light in the ABV department, making it easy to enjoy how fun both of them are.
A low-quality version of Drake’s diss “Push Ups” initially leaked online on April 13th but in April 19th it was released in fully polished CDQ form. On the song, Drake took Kendrick Lamar to task but also directed some of that heat at The Weeknd, Metro Boomin, and Rick Ross for their respective slights.
The Whiskey: Elmer T. Lee
Elmer T. Lee is the man most often credited with “inventing” single-barrel bourbon. While Blanton’s was released first, due to its runaway success the Buffalo Trace Distillery decided to release Elmer T. Lee soon thereafter.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Honey, graham crackers, and wood chips are the notes most evident on the nose. It’s generally restrained, but very focused on those three well-refined notes.
Palate: On the palate there’s plenty of honey-drizzled baklava to go with a touch of toffee, white peach, and youthful oak.
Finish: The finish is short, but reiterates the sweetness found first on the nose and again on the front end of the palate.
Bottom Line:
While it wasn’t the strongest call to arms in the war-of-the-words, “Push Ups” signaled that the battle was on. Following up the commercial success of “Like That” was no easy task, and made more difficult by the still-unexplained leak of “Push Ups” but you can argue that Drake was simply emulating the lightness of Kendrick’s jabs with this one.
That’s similar to how Elmer T. Lee is a light follow-up to Blanton’s.
Drake “Taylor Made Freestyle” with Hancock’s President’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey
The Diss: “Taylor Made Freestyle” April 19th, 2024
Suddenly anxious to engage in the battle that Kendrick Lamar started over a decade prior, Drake took the “Back to Back” route by releasing “Taylor Made Freestyle” shortly after the official release of “Push Ups” hit the web. He raised a few ethical concerns by utilizing AI to use Tupac and Snoop Dogg’s voices in verses for the song.
The Whiskey:
Hancock’s President’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey is, to many people, a retread of Elmer T. Lee which itself is a retread of Blanton’s. All three bourbons feature the same mash bill at varying proof points and in the same single-barrel format.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Hancock’s has a touch of nuttiness and a bit more earthiness than its two contemporaries but still showcases notes of maple, honey, and vanilla extract on the nose.
Palate: On the palate this bourbon tacks a bit austere, with a lean mouthfeel. Some toasted coconut flakes can be found beneath the layer of caramel and youthful oak top notes.
Finish: On the finish there’s a bit of nuttiness that reemerges along with more youthful oak. Otherwise, it’s a rather straightforward sipper.
Bottom Line:
You could make the argument that producing Hancock’s is more trouble than it’s worth. Bourbon fans have warmly embraced both Blanton’s and Elmer T. Lee, but Hancock’s is the little brother that you pick for your team just because you’re friends with its more popular older brothers. Similarly, “Taylor Made Freestyle” was a tepid response that Drake eventually removed from the internet under the threat of legal action from Tupac Shakur’s estate.
Kendrick Lamar “euphoria.” with George T. Stagg Bourbon
The Diss: Kendrick Lamar “euphoria.” April 30th, 2024
The Whiskey: George T. Stagg Bourbon 2023
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Black cherry, rich oak, and Aleppo red pepper flakes come bursting out of the glass. Some molasses, brown sugar, and faintly mesquite notes add intriguing layers to the complexity of the aroma.
Palate: On the palate it begins with the syrupy sweetness of cocktail cherries but is then transformed by a touch of leather, cinnamon, and charred red peppers. The texture is viscous and full of high-octane which, once it settles down, serves to introduce a multitude of robust flavors.
Finish: The finish holds a faint bit of smokiness and barrel char to go with black pepper and a ton of toffee. It lingers long after the last sip which makes savoring it even more enjoyable.
Bottom Line:
George T. Stagg is often considered one of the best, if not the best, bourbons of all time. It is generally one of the boldest bourbons on the market each year and that reputation for exceptional quality and prototypical bourbon brashness has made it a classic in every way. In the same vein, Kendrick Lamar’s “euphoria.” is a scathing takedown that deserves a place among the best diss tracks in rap history — right up there with “Ether” and the West Coast classic, “Hit ‘Em Up.”
Kendrick Lamar “6:16 in LA” with Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon
The Diss: Kendrick Lamar “6:16 in LA” May 3rd, 2024
Taking a page right out of Drake’s playbook, Kendrick released two records back-to-back with “6:16 in LA” hitting his Instagram page in the early hours of May 3rd. Seen at the time as a “bait” record, intended to goad Drake into rushing a response and preempt a more pointed attack, “6:16 in LA” is a strong diss track and a quietly impressive song in its own right.
The Whiskey: Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon
Rare Breed is a batched evergreen product for Wild Turkey. Clocking in at a hefty 116.8 proof, Rare Breed was Wild Turkey’s triumphant answer to the rising popularity of barrel-proof bourbon.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Honeysuckle, bright red cherries, and cinnamon rolls serve to delight the senses after a single whiff of Rare Breed. Given some time to sit, you’ll find well-aged oak, clove, nutmeg, and toasted almonds all elevate the aroma profile of this bourbon.
Palate: The flavors in this whiskey are very clear and well-developed with each of the nosing notes coming through on the palate. Those flavors are bolstered by a bit of cooked apple and pie shell for a robust yet clearly defined cavalcade of flavors.
Finish: Lengthy and lingering, the finish on Rare Breed is deceptively delicious in that it deftly balances sweetness and spice — leaving you wondering which one will last the longest. The answer is typically the spice.
Bottom Line:
For the song “6:16 in LA” Kendrick Lamar achieved several feats at once — laying a trap, producing a high-quality record, and applying real pressure on his opponent in a single swoop. For its part, Rare Breed Bourbon also proves to check a lot of boxes. Rare Breed is a display in exceptional quality — capable of beating bourbons three times the price in blind tastings — but it’s also a case study for affordability and availability with its sub-$100 price point and ubiquity on liquor store shelves making it such an underrated success.
Drake “Family Matters” with Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon
Facing a growing deficit, Drake swiftly responded to Kendrick’s early-morning assault with “Family Matters.” The beginning of the song was teased on the tail end of “Push Ups” indicating that Drake was indeed prepared for what would come but the impressive diss track also incorporated plenty of new information and some direct responses to “euphoria.” and “6:16 in LA.”
The Whiskey: Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch A124
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon is often seen as the standard bearer for high-quality, well-aged, cask-strength bourbon. The A124 Batch of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof was aged for 10 years and 9 months — an all-time low for the expression — but at 119 proof it still packs plenty of heat.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: A medley of walnuts, brown sugar, and clove make up the key aroma notes in this bourbon. Given a few waves of the hand, the ethanol dissipates and further aromas of cinnamon and vanilla fill the air.
Palate: On the palate is where the brown sugar and walnuts really make their presence felt. Balancing that earthiness with some warm sugary notes works well and leaves enough room for some slight herbaceousness and baking spice — think cumin and bay leaves — to punch through.
Finish: On the finish is where those baking spice notes like black pepper, cumin, and bay leaves become more evident, along with the punch of ethanol that warms your chest after each sip. There’s also a gentle kiss of cinnamon and baked apple on the finish that makes it enjoyable to revisit time and time again.
Bottom Line:
Despite the fact that it isn’t as harmonious as previous releases of Elijah Craig — with the stellar C923 batch coming to mind — Batch A124 still lives up to its reputation as an exceptional cask-strength bourbon. Likewise, Drake’s “Family Matters” is a bit unfocused — as he continued to take the “20 v. 1” sentiment that he mentioned on “Push Ups” to heart. He ceded precious ground in the beef by taking on so many opponents at once — reserving almost equal venom for his former collaborator, The Weeknd, as he does for Kendrick Lamar.
That said, “Family Matters” does an admirable job of protecting his reputation while taking fresh digs at Kendrick Lamar’s credibility.
Kendrick Lamar “Meet The Grahams” with Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon
The Diss: Kendrick Lamar “Meet The Grahams” May 3rd, 2024
The third(!) diss track of the day, “Meet The Grahams” was released less than an hour after Drake’s “Family Matters.” On the hard-hitting, low-tempo track, Kendrick takes aim at Drake’s family, hurls his ugliest accusations yet, and goes so far as to wish death on his Canadian counterpart. He also proved that his previous diss track “6:16 in LA” was indeed a well-laid trap, though aspects of the song’s veracity have since been called into question.
The Whiskey: Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Leather and cinnamon bark really lead the way on the nose of this bourbon and they’re supported by the scent of buttered croissants and date syrup.
Palate: The flavors in Frey Ranch Farm Strength Bourbon really scream “boldness.” There’s corn pudding, tropical fruit chunks, and tobacco leaf but there’s also a heavy dose of ethanol which takes some getting used to. In addition to that intriguing array of flavors, there’s a truly robust and viscous texture to the bourbon that forces you to sit up and dissect it.
Finish: On the finish there’s even more heat as charred red pepper skin fuses with honey and more grain-forward corn notes.
Bottom Line:
Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon is deceptively challenging, with corn-forward sweetness on the front end masking the heavy dose of ethanol and surprising depth of flavor found at midpalate and on the finish. Frey Ranch’s Farm Strength offering makes for such a perfect pairing with Kendrick Lamar’s “Meet The Grahams” because it is undeniably complex and deeply tied to the concept of family.
The family behind Frey Ranch Distillery has been farming since 1854 and distilling for 20 years, and all of that experience is on display in every bottle of their unique grain-forward bourbons.
Kendrick Lamar “Not Like Us” with Redwood Empire Cask Strength Pipe Dream Bourbon
As the latest diss in the ongoing battle, “Not Like Us” called Drake’s alliance with Atlanta rap artists into question over a booming beat that showcases the signature California rap sound. Reminiscent of an N.W.A. record from the 90’s, Kendrick’s embrace of the regional sound on the catchy track resulted in commercial success with the song breaking Spotify’s streaming record by becoming the most streamed American hip-hop song in a single day with 6.59 million streams.
The Whiskey: Redwood Empire Cask Strength Pipe Dream Bourbon
Redwood Empire’s Cask Strength Pipe Dream Bourbon is aged for a minimum of 4 years and takes the brand’s already excellent bourbon and raises the stakes courtesy of an increase in ABV.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Aromas like toffee, barrel char, and the leather from a baseball glove are immediately evident on the nose. There’s a touch of smokiness hiding in the background as well as some caramel that emerges after a few swirls in the glass.
Palate: On the palate there’s a lovely green apple note to go with honeyed pecans, aged oak notes, and accents of nutmeg.
Finish: The finish on this whiskey doubles down with more baking spice and oak before relenting with some of the toffee from the nose and a sweet albeit slightly tart green apple note to close.
Bottom Line:
As the final nail in the coffin (for the time being) “Not Like Us” proved to be a surprise hit with the thumping West Coast production from DJ Mustard resonating with many fans. The best bourbon produced in California, Redwood Empire’s Cask Strength Pipe Dream, is not only fiery and full-bodied, but through the brand’s Trees For The Future initiative, they also give back and elevate their local community.
With Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” firmly planting the flag for the classic California sound, it can be said that he’s also elevating the region that has strongly supported him throughout his career. Though there were also scattershot disses from the likes of J. Cole, Rick Ross, and Metro Boomin — whose #BBLDrizzy challenge inspired a host of inventive covers — the spirited clash is at a standstill…for now.
Black Thought is as respected as a rapper can get. The frontman of The Roots is regularly cited as one of the dynamic lyricists of all time, so anybody who plans to keep up with him better be nice. J Cole thought he was up to the challenge. Black Thought recently appeared on This Week In White Supremacy Podcast (bold name, we know) to reveal that Cole approached him about doing a collab album. The rapper admits he considered the idea. Ultimately, though, the collab album never came together.
Black Thought was asked about the Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar battle that’s taken the music world by storm. What rapper hasn’t been, right? The host pointed out that nobody has ever dared beef with Black Thought, and the rapper confirmed this theory. He was then asked about J. Cole’s decision to apologize to K. Dot following the release of his diss. He didn’t pick team Drake or Lamar, but he commended Cole for his actions. He described the apology as “beautiful,” and felt like it showed “humility and nobility” on J. Cole’s part. “When the plane’s going down,” he asserted. “You gotta situation your own oxygen mask first.”
Black Thought reacts to J. Cole apologizing to Kendrick Lamar after dropping the ‘7 Minute Drill’ diss song and reveals he scared off J. Cole when J. Cole wanted to do a joint album with him because he wanted J. Cole to send more aggressive beats.
— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) May 10, 2024
Black Thought’s high opinion on Cole led to him dropping a bombshell about their previous encounter. He told the host that the Dreamville rapper approached him for a full-length project a few years back. Thought was into the idea. “He and I had talked about doing music together,” The Roots rapper noted. “Beginning of 2018, he hit me like, ‘Yo, let’s do an album.’ I told him to send me some music. It was like let me see what you’re thinking.” Black Thought ultimately felt like Cole wanted to make something that was identical to what he was already doing with The Roots.
“He sent me a batch of beats and they all just felt so close to something Roots-centric,” Thought noted. “At the time, I was trying to sort of step outside of what I’d done in The Roots and I just didn’t feel like we were lining up.” Thought theorizes that he scared Cole off when he messaged him back and asked for a different batch of instrumentals. “I think I scared him off,” he explained. “Maybe like some of the trigger words I was using, ‘I want something hard.’” Thought and J. Cole have yet to officially collaborate, but hopefully they get lined up at some point in the future.
Within the pantheon of unexpected musical crossovers, former Migos rapper Quavo and pop star Lana Del Rey would have been a hard one to predict. Lana has crossed over with rappers occasionally in the past. Both A$AP Rocky and Playboi Carti feature on her 2017 album Lust For Life. Quavo has also appeared on some songs with a poppier slant, perhaps most notable Calvin Harris’ “Slide.” Despite their seemingly different musical worlds, the two apparently have new music together coming soon.
Earlier this week Quavo and Lana Del Rey were spotted out and about together. As you’d expect that led to rumors that the two could be working on some music together. It didn’t take long before those rumors were confirmed to be true. Today, Quavo took to Instagram to share a snippet of something they’ve been working on together. The preview was met with a wide variety of reactions but more so than anything else was the surprise that the two were even working together in the first place. Check out the snippet of new music they shared below.
The biggest story surrounding Quavo recently has been his beef with Chris Brown. It’s something that comes up multiple times in the comment section of the teaser he shared. While some fans tried to make the argument that Brown got the better of him, many are just happy to see him moving on from the conflict. Late last month, the beef elevated from diss tracks to real life swipes. That came when Brown allegedly bought out a ton of tickets to one of Quavo’s shows so he performed for an incredibly small audience. That added an entire new dimension to fans trying to dissect who won the beef.
What do you think of Quavo and Lana Del Rey mixing their styles and working on new music together? Are you looking forward to the collaboration when they eventually drop it? Let us know in the comment section below.
It’s no secret that being famous comes with a lot of perks, but according to G Herbo, it has its disadvantages too. Earlier this week, the Chicago-born performer took to social media to open up about one of them, which is being approached by fans while just trying to spend time with his family. He took to his Instagram Story with a message for his supporters, asking them to respect him and his loved ones if they ever spot him out in public.
“You know I show everybody love. I appreciate all the love I get from everybody,” he explained. “But it’s just something that bother me man and I really don’t even feel comfortable saying this but I gotta say it ’cause it happen over and over. If you see me out and I’m with my family – especially my kids – don’t ask me for no pictures man. I be going through the airport – I’m a real father. I be traveling alone.”
He went on, describing how fans will approach him while he’s holding his baby, expecting him to put the child down just to take photos. “And I don’t wanna rub nobody the wrong way or come off like I’m rude or an a**hole,” G Herbo also added. But it’s just so disrespectful. Why would I put my baby down to take a picture for your Instagram? Just say wassup and keep it moving. I really appreciate the support, I f*ck with y’all but don’t do that, man. That sh*t ain’t cool.”
His message serves as a reminder that celebrities are people too, and deserve respect and privacy like anyone else. What do you think about G Herbo asking fans not to request photos with him when they see him in public with his family? Do you agree that it’s invasive? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.
Aundrea Fimbres is known for her work with the successful girl group Danity Kane. She has amassed a net worth of $500,000 in 2024, according to CelebrityNetWorth. Her career has been shaped by her vocal talent and engaging stage presence, which was evident from her time on Making the Band to her solo pursuits after the group’s hiatus. Despite challenges, Fimbres’s dedication to her craft has helped her sustain a dynamic and resilient career.
Early Career & Success With Danity Kane
Wanita Woodgette, Aubrey O’Day, Dawn Richard, Aundrea Fimbres and Shannon Bex of Making the Band 3 (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc)
Aundrea Fimbres first rose to prominence as a contestant on MTV’s Making the Band, a reality show by Sean “Diddy” Combs that aimed to form a new girl group. As one of the original members of Danity Kane, Fimbres quickly became known for her distinctive voice and magnetic performances. The group’s debut album reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200, featuring hits like “Show Stopper” and “Ride for You,” which solidified their place in the pop and R&B landscape. Fimbres’s vocal talent was crucial to the group’s harmony-driven sound, helping them achieve significant commercial success.
Departure from Danity Kane & Personal Growth
LOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER 23: Andrea Fimbres, Shannon Bex, Dawn Richards and Aubrey. O’Day attend Flips Audio Headphones Sponsors the Official Artist. Gift Lounge & Cumulus Radio Row At the American Music Awards – Day 2 on November 23, 2013, also in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Michael Bezjian/WireImage)
After the group disbanded in 2009 and briefly reunited in 2014, Fimbres decided to part ways to focus on her family and personal development. This marked a turning point in her career as she explored new opportunities and pursued interests outside of music. While her departure from Danity Kane meant leaving the group’s limelight behind, Fimbres has remained connected to her fan base through social media, sharing glimpses of her personal life and artistic passions.
Ongoing Influence & Engagement
Shannon Bex and Aundrea Fimbres of Danity Kane during KFC Retro T’s Promote. Colonel Scholar’s Program – Day 1 at private residence in Los Angeles, California, United States. (Photo by Amy Graves/WireImage for Tschidakabat Entertainment Group)
Aundrea Fimbres remains a beloved figure among Danity Kane fans. They continue to appreciate her vocal contributions and distinctive style. Despite stepping back from the mainstream music industry, she has continued to engage with her audience. She occasionally collaborates with other artists and pursues creative projects that align with her values. Her willingness to prioritize her well-being while exploring her creative potential makes her an inspiring figure in the entertainment industry.
Aundrea Fimbres’s net worth reflects her impactful journey in music and beyond. Her success with Danity Kane and her adaptability in navigating personal and professional challenges demonstrate her resilience and passion for the arts.
oomarhazem
