SZA Believes People Label Her As An R&B Artist Only Because She’s Black

In a new interview with Dazed published Wednesday (May 1), SZA spoke on only being considered an R&B artist because she’s Black. It’s a mistake that we and many others have committed in the past, not just as outlets and publications in white-dominant and often exploitative media spaces, but as non-Black audiences comparing Black art to the white-dominant spaces of pop music at large. It’s an issue that many Black artists like Tyler, The Creator have addressed to varying degrees.

Most importantly, it’s not meant to detach the St. Louis native from R&B, which she’s made a lot of, but rather to accurately assess the full range of musical styles that she employs as a pop artist, whose only defining characteristic is… well, being a popular artist that writes with pop song structures, which are not at all exclusive to the typical music genre expectations we associate with “pop.” “The only reason I’m defined as an R&B artist is because I’m Black,” SZA remarked. “It’s almost a little reductive because it doesn’t allow space to be anything else or try anything else. Justin Bieber is not considered an R&B artist. He is a pop artist who makes R&B, folk music, or whatever his heart desires.

Read More: SZA Shows Off Her New Zealand Journey In Instagram Photo Dump As Fans Impatiently Await “LANA”

SZA Performing At Dreamville Fest 2024

SZA R&B Artist Black Comments Music News
SZA performs during the 2024 Dreamville Music Festival at Dorothea Dix Park on April 06, 2024 in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Astrida Valigorsky/WireImage/Getty Images)

“I simply just want to be allowed the same opportunity to make whatever I want without a label. [Without it being] based on the color of my skin, or the crew that I run with, or the beats that I choose,” SZA continued. “I want ‘F2F’ to be seen as what it is. I want ‘Nobody Gets Me’ to be seen as what it is, I want ‘Kill Bill’ to be seen as what it is.

“At the same time, it’s nothing to get bent out of shape about. Because it’s just how people are processing you,” SZA concluded. “As long as I don’t process myself that way. I don’t necessarily box myself into anything. I’m just trying to make music, trying to vibe out and enjoy the experience.”

Read More: SZA Delivers A Pro-Palestine Message During Recent Concert

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A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie Concert In England Canceled At The Last Minute

Artists canceling their concerts the day of has become a menace for some fans. Though last minute changes of plan are sometimes unavoidable, certain acts have a reputation for late cancelations. That isn’t the case for A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, nor is the overnight last-minute cancelation of his show in Manchester his fault. The venue waited until the absolute last minute to cancel the show with fans having already started lining up outside. In fact, it wasn’t until 10 minutes after doors were scheduled to open that the cancelation of the show was announced.

The show was set to take place at Manchester’s new Co-Op Live. The freshly opened venue is off to a very rough start. This isn’t the first concert they’ve had to cancel, rock band The Black Keys had their event called off last week. The venue also went ahead and delayed Olivia Rodrigo’s scheduled shows which were supposed to take place later this week. “We kindly ask fans to leave the area. Ticket holders will receive further information in due course. We deeply apologise for the significant inconvenience this will cause for many,” the venue said in a statement to social media. They later confirmed that the show was called off due to a tech related issue with the venue itself. Check out their tweet announcing the cancelation below.

Read More: A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie Global Tour 2024: Dates, Tickets & More

A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie’s Concert Gets Canceled Last Minute

Last month, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie dropped his new EP “Alone.” The project is only a few weeks old and all of the songs included have racked up more than a million streams on Spotify already. It’s his first batch of new material since his 2022 album Me vs. Myself.

What do you think of a Manchester Arena having to cancel A Boogie’s concert 10 minutes after doors were scheduled to open? How would you react if a concert you were already in line for was canceled before you could get inside? Let us know in the comment section below.

Read More: A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie Makes His Presence Felt On “Steppas”

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Video Of White Kendrick Lamar Fan Saying N-Word Onstage With Him Resurfaces Amid Drake Beef

Kendrick Lamar’s disses towards Drake on “euphoria” are sometimes imperfect, such as the Joel Osteen and Haley Joel Osment mix-up. But even that still makes sense (at least, a little bit), and there are other criticisms against the diss track that, while valid, don’t hold up under a ton of scrutiny. For one, a clip resurfaced on the Internet of a white fan rapping the n-word onstage with K.Dot during his performance of “m.A.A.d. city,” which is -– or rather, was -– a staple of many of his live shows. The reason why it’s relevant to bring up is because of the final shot that he took at Drizzy on his new song: “We don’t want to hear you say n***a no more.”

Furthermore, many called out the hypocrisy that this seemingly suggests, but other fans quickly brought up that Kendrick Lamar already addressed this very same conflict on his 2022 track “Auntie Diaries.” However, the viral instance that he referred to on that song about how he “let a white girl say n***a” happened in 2018, and wasn’t this particular clip. It’s also important to note that this footage below, seemingly from much earlier on in his career, ends abruptly, so we don’t know if there is more context or something that the rapper might’ve said afterwards. Back to that 2018 incident, though, the white fan said the n-word while rapping the chorus to “m.A.A.d. city” (just like this older clip), Kendrick stopped the music and corrected her, and then allowed her to go on after she apologized.

Read More: Kendrick Lamar “Euphoria”: We Might Finally Get The Surgical Summer We Deserve

Kendrick Lamar Performs Alongside White Fan Who Says The N-Word: Watch

Within the context of “Auntie Diaries,” Kendrick Lamar referred to that 2018 moment as a way to call out his own hypocrisy for using the f-slur in relation to the LGBTQIA2+ community. Either everyone can say anything or folks should actually hold others accountable for the bigotry, discrimination, and violent history that their words perpetuate. But let’s also be very clear: this article has been a lot of explaining, something that Drake also deserves as far as misconceptions spreading about his racial identity, his upbringing, and his place in the rap game. Needless to say, both fanbases are definitely reaching occasionally to try to discredit the other.

Meanwhile, there’s a good chance that Drake will probably try to flip this against Kendrick Lamar in whatever he cooks up in response to “euphoria.” After all, both have done a decent job so far of retorting to each and every point that their opponent makes on wax. What’s more is that neither has really dropped “the bomb” yet, something that we don’t even know is a possibility against two titans of their stature and career history. But anything’s possible, so we’ll see how this argument holds up in the discourse.

Read More: Drake Might’ve Referenced Kendrick Lamar’s Wife Cheating On Him Years Ago, Fans Think

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Ice Spice’s Alleged Ex-Friend Accuses Drake Of Being A “Raging Predator”

Last week, an artist who goes by Baby Storme hopped online to “expose” her alleged ex-bestie, Ice Spice. She accused the femcee of colorism, cheating, and more. The concerning and unconfirmed allegations didn’t stop there, however. Earlier today, she took aim at Drake, accusing him of being a “raging predator.” According to her, Drake allegedly tried to sleep with Ice Spice under the guise of wanting her to sign to OVO Sound.

“Something a lot of people don’t know about @Drake is: just like Epstein, Weinstein, and Schneider, Aubrey Graham is a raging predator. He was trying to f*ck Isis when she was 22 years old til now, but disguised it as wanting to sign her to Ovo. He even offered to propose. The only women he can get are young girls who don’t know any better & pornstars. (hence why the mother of his child is a pornstar.) He sold his soul, & his life is ruined. That is not a happy man. And it shows,” Baby Storme alleged.

Read More: Kendrick Lamar “Euphoria”: 6 Bars Drake Needs To Respond To

Baby Storme Goes After Drake

Almost immediately, Baby Storme received pushback from commenters, who reminded her that Ice Spice is of age. In response, she clarified that she was accusing him of sexual coercion, alleging that he used his position of power to indirectly pressure the “Deli” performer into sleeping with him. “Yes, this is called Sexual Coercion,” she said. “When you’re in a position of power, so you can pressure women into having sex indirectly. Same thing Scheinder, Epstein, & Weinstein did. And there’s one thing all of these people have in common. But i’ll say no more.”

What do you think of Baby Storme’s shocking allegations against Drake? What about her accusations against her alleged ex-friend, Ice Spice? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

Read More: J Cole Praised For Bowing Out Of Kendrick Lamar Feud After Fans Hear Blistering Drake Diss, “Euphoria”

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Here Is The 21 Savage Merch Available At The ‘American Dream Tour’

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Last night (May 1), 21 Savage kicked off his American Dream Tour in Vancouver with a setlist including hits from across his catalog like “Bank Account,” “Creepin’,” “Rich Flex,” and “Rockstar.”

In addition to learning what songs fans at future tour stops can expect to hear, the Vancouver show also revealed what merch will be available, so you can budget for items like hats, hoodies, football jerseys(!), and T-shirts. The prices listed are in Canadian dollars, so here’s a calculation based on the photo provided on Reddit. The US prices may change in the future, but here are the conversions.

Canvas bags – $45 CAD / $32 USD
T-shirts – $65 CAD / $48 USD
Football jersey – $140 CAD / $102 USD
Hoodies – $175 CAD / $128 USD

You can check out the tour dates below:

21 Savage 2024 Tour Dates: American Dream Tour

05/03 — Auburn, WA @ White River Amphitheatre
05/05 — Ridgefield, WA @ RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater
05/07 — Los Angeles, CA @ Kia Forum
05/09 — Concord, CA @ Toyota Pavilion at Concord
05/11 — Phoenix, AZ @ Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre
05/12 — Albuquerque, NM @ Isleta Amphitheater
05/14 — Austin, TX @ Germania Insurance Amphitheater
05/15 — Dallas, TX @ Dos Equis Pavilion
05/16 — Houston, TX @ The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion presented by Huntsman
05/18 — Rogers, AR @ Walmart AMP
05/19 — St. Louis, MO @ Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
05/21 — Chicago, IL @ Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre
05/22 — Cincinnati, OH @ Riverbend Music Center
05/23 — Noblesville, IN @ Ruoff Music Center
05/25 — Toronto, ON @ Budweiser Stage
05/28 — Clarkston, MI @ Pine Knob Music Theatre
05/29 — Cuyahoga Falls, OH @ Blossom Music Center
05/31 — Mansfield, MA @ Xfinity Center
06/01 — Hartford, CT @ Xfinity Theatre
06/02 — Bristow, VA @ Jiffy Lube Live
06/04 — Virginia Beach, VA @ Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach
06/05 — Simpsonville, SC @ CCNB Amphitheatre at Heritage Park
06/06 — Charlotte, NC @ PNC Music Pavilion
06/08 — New York, NY @ Governors Ball Music Festival
06/09 — Camden, NJ @ Freedom Mortgage Pavilion
06/11 — Birmingham, AL @ Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
06/13 — West Palm Beach, FL @ iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre
06/14 — Tampa, FL @ MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre at the FL State Fairgrounds
06/15 — Atlanta, GA @ Lakewood Amphitheatre

Birdman & More To Celebrate 30 Years Of Essence Fest With Cash Money Reunion

Earlier this week, it was announced that Birdman and his Cash Money crew will get together for a reunion at Essence Fest in New Orleans this summer. The performance, which is scheduled for Independence Day weekend, will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic festival.

“The most anticipated reunion goes down at this year’s ESSENCE Fest. You asked, and we delivered,” the festival’s official Instagram page announced yesterday (May 1). “For the love of CULTURE, for the love of US. For the love of the 99’ and 2000 — The Takeover has begun. Your July 4th weekend plans have just been confirmed.” Tickets for the event are on sale now, though the full lineup has yet to be revealed. It’s also to be seen exactly which Cash Money artists will join Birdman on stage. Regardless, fans can’t wait.

Read More: How Tall Is Slim? Exploring The Cash Money Co-Founder’s Height

Birdman & Unannounced Cash Money Artists To Perform In New Orleans

This isn’t the only reunion fans have to look forward to, however. For months now, the Hot Boys have been teasing a comeback following B.G.’s release from prison after a decade-long stay. It’s uncertain if or when the reunion will take place, though Lil Wayne told the 4HUNNID podcast in February that they’re waiting for B.G. to get permission to travel. Juvenile went on to tell TMZ that it’s a sure bet, though supporters might have to wait just a bit longer. “No negativity from me, man,” he explained to the outlet. “You know, with me, I’m always like, ‘It’s gon’ happen.’ It’s gonna happen. We gotta let them simmer down a little bit. But trust me though, it’s happening.”

What do you think of Birdman and Cash Money artists teaming up for a reunion at the upcoming Essence Fest in New Orleans? Which artists do you think will make appearances? Who do you hope to see there? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

Read More: Cash Money Records: The Rise Of A Hip-Hop Empire

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Nicki Minaj Brings Out Kai Cenat And Cyndi Lauper At Star-Studded Tour Stop

One of the most highly-anticipated tours of 2024 is carrying on. Nicki Minaj has already made near nightly news for her Pink Friday 2 tour. She took off earlier this year in support of her new album of the same name, which was her first new project in 5 years. It arrived on the back of hits like “Super Freaky Girl” and “Red Ruby Da Sleeze” and spawned even more hits with tracks like “FTCU” and “Everybody.” The tour has been a star-studded affair throughout with Nicki declining to fill her tour with a roster of openers and instead featuring a variety of special guests on a nightly basis.

That was the case once again in Brooklyn, where one of those new hits served as the base for a memorable moment. Minaj was joined by streamed Kai Cenat and a number of his friends on stage during “Everybody.” The group mostly just danced around to the viral hit song and enjoyed themselves on stage throughout. That wasn’t even the only guest of the night though. Nicki was also joined by pop singer Cyndi Lauper in one of the biggest surprises yet. She helped Nicki perform “Pink Friday Girls” as it features a sample of Lauper’s classic hit “Girl’s Just Wanna Have Fun.” Check out a videos from the nights events below.

Read More: Nicki Minaj Dismisses “Bully” Backlash

Nicki Minaj’s Special Guests In Brooklyn

Nicki Minaj recently released a new remix of “FTCU.” She had been teasing a new version of the song for weeks, though Sexyy Red was the only artists presumed to be on it. That’s why fans were so stunned when she finally announced the song. She revealed that it would also feature Chris Brown and Travis Scott. The remix caused the song to jump from number 80 to number 53 on the Hot 100. That came despite over 30 Taylor Swift songs making their debut on the chart this week.

What do you think of Nicki Minaj bringing out Cyndi Lauper and Kai Cenat during her recent Brooklyn show? What other surprising celebs do you think could make an appearance on her Pink Friday 2 tour? Let us know in the comment section below.

Read More: What Was Nicki Minaj’s Debut Single?

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Playboi Carti Has The “Most Easily Impressed” Fanbase In Hip-Hop, Adam22 Argues

It’s no secret that Playboi Carti has a huge and fiercely loyal fanbase. According to Adam22, however, he doesn’t necessarily deserve it. During a recent interview with VladTV, the podcaster turned adult entertainer shared his take on the Atlanta native. He had some harsh words for him, as well as those who support him. He claimed that Carti’s music feels “forced,” dubbing his followers “confused” at best.

“I listened to that song on the Future album with Travis Scott and everything,” he began. “The whole thing was good, and I don’t turn it off when it gets to the Carti verse because every time I’m just kind of marveling at how weird this verse is and how weird this voice that he’s using is. I feel like Playboi Carti might have the most r****ded fanbase in hip-hop, or at the very least, the most easily impressed fanbase.”

Read More: Travis Scott, Playboi Carti, Chief Keef & More On Summer Smash 2024 Lineup: Details

Adam22 Disses Playboi Carti & His Fans

“I feel like it’s impossible to be somebody that’s at our age and to be impressed by what he’s putting out there,” he continued. “Especially with my specific set of references where I grew up listening to a lot of hip-hop, a lot of metal, a lot of hardcore, a lot of punk. So like, all of the elements of those genres that he inserts into his music feel fairly forced and just not cool.” Adam22 went on to describe catching a glimpse of Carti’s crowd at Rolling Loud, recalling their all-black fits. “They think they’re goths because they dress in all black, but they’re like obsessed with Kanye and Playboi Carti and stuff,” he explained. “They’re just kind of confused from my perspective.”

Needless to say, the internet personality is not a fan. What do you think of Adam22 dissing Playboi Carti and his fanbase? Does the No Jumper host have a point, or not? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

Read More: MC Lan Announces Release Date For New Playboi Carti Collab

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Megan Thee Stallion Officially Initiated ‘Megan May’ With A Racy Photo And A Warning To ‘Get Ready’

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Last week, Megan Thee Stallion was sued for workplace harassment, an allegation that she vehemently denied through a statement from her attorney. That was April. This is May. And Megan Thee Stallion is looking forward to the month ahead.

On Wednesday, May 1, Hot Girl Meg posted a racy photo on Instagram alongside the caption, “Hotties it’s officially MEGAN MAY [snake emoji] Get ready [flame emoji].”

She followed that up with another photo within the same aesthetic vein alongside the caption, “[egg emoji, snake emoji].”

Megan Thee Stallion is expected to drop her third studio album sometime this year, and the LP is among Uproxx’s “Most Anticipated Albums Of 2024.” So far, Meg has released singles “Cobra” and “Hiss,” if you were wondering where the snake emojis came from.

An album title and release date haven’t been publicly confirmed yet, but Megan Thee Stallion announced her Hot Girl Summer Tour in March. The international tour will begin on May 14 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota and snake through North America until late June before Megan Thee Stallion pops over to Europe and the UK for a set of dates — ending at The O2 in London on July 17.

If Megan’s recent posts are any indication, May should bring more than just a tour to the Hotties.

When Will 4Batz’s New Mixtape ‘U Made Me A St4r’ Be On Apple Music?

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4Batz, the mysterious newcomer who somehow secured a Drake feature before most people had ever even seen his face, is releasing his debut mixtape U Made Me A St4r this week after pushing it back early last month. It will be many fans’ first opportunity to learn about the semi-obscure character through the best avenue to do so: his music. So…

When Will 4Batz’s New Mixtape U Made Me A St4r Be On Apple Music?

With a release date of May 3, U Made Me A St4r should be available on DSPs like Apple Music in just a few hours from this writing, at 9 PM Pacific time, or midnight, if you live on the east coast. Thanks to recent snafus involving fellow alleged Drake collaborator Bfp Da Packman and early cosigner Kanye West, we can never be 100 percent sure that an album is hitting streaming on schedule, but 4Batz has maintained a pretty professional rollout so far, so there’s no obvious reason to believe he’ll miss his release date.

In Uproxx’s February interview with the nascent star, he said, “I would like to be remembered as the biggest artist in the world and one of the most humble people in the world who gave back and inspired people, and who you know was talented.” We’ll get our first chance to find out just how talented he is on 5/3.