The acclaimed Roots Picnic festival, a beacon of musical excellence and cultural celebration, is back for its 2024 edition, promising an unforgettable two-day experience. Presented by GRAMMY® Award-winning hip-hop icons The Roots and Live Nation Urban, the event will occur at The Mann in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, PA, on June 1-2, 2024.
Launching the excitement, Roots Picnic alumni presale tickets will be available starting Tuesday, February 20th at 10 AM ET, followed by general on-sale beginning Friday, Feb. 23rd at 10 AM ET.
The festival lineup boasts an impressive array of talent, with GRAMMY® Award-winning legend Lil Wayne headlining alongside The Roots, treating audiences to a journey through decades of hits and a special tribute to Lil Wayne’s hometown of New Orleans, featuring guests PJ Morton and Trombone Shorty. Joining the bill is powerhouse Jill Scott, captivating audiences in her hometown with her soulful style.
The festival’s spirit of collaboration continues with performances from Victoria Monét, André 3000, Gunna, Sexyy Red, Tyla, Smino, Babyface, Adam Blackstone featuring Fantasia & Muni Long, Cam’ron, Nas, Wale, Robert Glasper featuring Yebba, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and more.
Roots Picnic 2024 promises to be a cultural landmark, bringing together generations of artists and fans for an unparalleled celebration of music and community. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary event in the heart of Philadelphia.
In the entertainment world, drama often takes center stage, and few things ignite excitement like a good old-fashioned feud. Hip-hop stars aren’t exempt, and over the years, there have been many rap beefs between artists. From the most brutal diss tracks to heated Twitter exchanges, these conflicts captivate audiences and fuel tabloid headlines. However, amidst the chaos and clamor, some feuds have left fans questioning their authenticity. In detail, fans dissect lyrics, analyze social media interactions, and pore over tabloid gossip, reading between the lines and fueling conspiracy theories. While the authenticity of many hip-hop beefs is neither confirmed nor denied, the fans’ speculations often make sense, especially since some notable rap beefs have ended. Here are some of the hip-hop beefs that fans think were fake.
Eminem And Machine Gun Kelly
One notable Hip Hop clash recently between Eminem and Machine Gun Kelly. The origin of the conflict can be traced back to MGK’s tweet in 2012 where he commented about Em’s then-16-year-old daughter, Hailie. In the tweet, MGK said Hailie was “hot as f*ck,” and later events proved Eminem didn’t take the comment lightly. Subsequently, MGK alleged that Eminem had had him blacklisted from several radio stations because of the tweet. Afterward, in 2018, MGK threw shade at Slim Shady in the Tech N9ne song, “No Reason.” Interestingly, Em’s album, Kamikaze, was set to drop just a few months later.
On “Not Alike,” the Detroit rapper directly addressed MGK’s comment on his daughter. While some fans commended him for it, other listeners’ brows were raised at how convenient it was for him to respond at that time. With a new album out, many speculated that it was a promotion tactic to fan the flames of a beef that was actually nonexistent.
In 2015, Meek Mill started a fire on Twitter when he wrote that Drake “don’t write his own raps.” As expected, this comment quickly got under Drizzy’s skin. In fact, he got so heated that he responded with the diss track “Charged Up,” a warning shot to test the waters of their feud. However, it was the release of “Back To Back” that proved Drake didn’t need to rely on anyone else’s pen to get his bars off.
Following the release of “Back to Back,” Meek Mill finally released “Wanna Know,” replying to Drake. Meek Mill’s diss track did not garner the same level of attention and acclaim as Drake’s disses. However, it was enough to rile people up and make theirs one of the most talked about Hip Hop beefs at the time. Subsequently, their feud continued until 2018 when Drake called for Meek’s freedom. Then, they publicly commemorated the end of their beef when Drake brought out Meek Mill on stage during a concert in Boston. For something that seemed to be so serious while it lasted, fans thought it ended way too easily. This made many suspect that maybe the beef was never really authentic.
In November 2015, Metro Boomin took to Twitter to express his frustration with artists releasing too much music without proper quality control. While the producer didn’t mention any names, Young Thug caught the sub, believing Boomin was indirectly addressing him. Subsequently, the two got into an interesting back-and-forth Twitter spat that was almost believable. However, the pair had a collaborative mixtape that was set to drop soon, so their feud just seemed performative. Over time, it seemed to fizzle out, and the two continued to work together. Many Hip Hop beefs over the years have been as real as real can get. However, this one between Metro Boomin and Young Thug just didn’t feel authentic to fans.
Undoubtedly one of the biggest Hip Hop beefs in recent times, Cardi and Nicki have been at loggerheads for years. However, despite how authentic this feud seems, even getting physical once, some fans still have their doubts. Sometimes, perceived animosity between artists attracts more traffic than unity. Considering how much media coverage their beef gets, some fans believe that the two rappers continue to fan the flames just to remain on the headlines. Additionally, some have also noted that right before a major release from either rapper, something seems to go down between the two. While we can not confirm this theory, it is certainly an interesting one, and holds some plausibility.
Yes, these two Hip Hop legends have also contributed to the history of rap beefs over the years. However, many fans and critics believe that Nas and Jay-Z’s long beef was more of a strategic move to generate publicity. Building from a slow burn in the late ‘90s to a raging fire in the early 2000s, this feud utterly captivated audiences. It spawned many iconic diss tracks from the two, including “Takeover,” “Ether,” and “Supa Ugly,” among others. However, all good things come to an end. The curtains were drawn on this legendary feud in 2005 when the two publicly ended their beef at Jay’s I Declare War concert. If the speculations were right, then the two MCs won because they were both hot throughout the period of their beef.
The Jay-Z and Nas beef is permanently engrained in hip-hop. Two of the best to ever do it were going back and forth in the prime of their career. The beef spawned some legendary diss tracks like Jay’s “Takeover” and Nas’ “Ether.” Eventually the pair buried the hatchet and their beef was resigned to be studied by rap historians. One of which is Rick Ross, who decades later has taken the opportunity to share his thoughts on who ultimately got the best of who in the spat.
During an appearance on Logan Paul’s Impaulsive podcast Rick Ross discussed the old beef between two of his collaborators. “That’s what I do love about Hip Hop because it always goes back to how much money a n-gga got, from a business standpoint,” he began. “I’ma be honest, me being a fan of Nas and Hov, I feel like they both handled their business, you know what I mean? Because they both shot back. And to me, that’s what it’s about because a lot of times n-ggas will tap out. They both shot back and they both kept going,” Ross concluded. Check out his full interview below.
Elsewhere in the interview they discussed another more contemporary rap beef. It involved yet another one of Ross’ collaborators Nicki Minaj, alongside Megan Thee Stallion. He was less inclined to pick a side or declare who won the beef between the two. Instead he justified the extent they’ve both gone to in order to get disses off. He claimed he’s gone just as far to try and win rap beefs in the past.
Last year, Rick Ross and Meek Mill teamed up for a collaborative album called Too Good To Be True. The album was hyped up by fans and had some high-profile guests but ultimately performed just okay commercially. What do you think of Rick Ross’ take on the Nas and Jay-Z beef? Do you think the beef ended without a definitive winner? Let us know in the comment section below.
Justice Smith’s ascent in Hollywood is a tale of unwavering dedication and a keen eye for diverse roles. Beginning his career with powerful performances on stage, Smith seamlessly transitioned to the screen, capturing audiences with his versatility and depth. His journey is marked by strategic role selections and a commitment to his craft, culminating in a significant career milestone. His involvement in the upcoming and controversial film The American Society of Magical Negroes, slated for release this year, adds a new and challenging dimension to his portfolio. As of 2024, Smith’s dedication to his art has culminated in a net worth of $1 million, as reported by Wealthy Gorilla.
From Broadway Beginnings To Big Screen Brilliance
NEW YORK, NY – AUGUST 11: (L-R) Jaden Smith, Nas, Shameik Moore, Justice Smith, and. Grandmaster Flash attend “The Get Down” New York premiere at Lehman Center For The. Performing Arts on August 11, 2016 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by D Dipasupil/Getty Images)
Justice Smith’s career trajectory is a testament to his ability to adapt and excel across various entertainment platforms. His early days on Broadway provided a strong foundation in the performing arts. He honed his skills in front of a live audience. This experience translated into a dynamic presence in television and film. His breakthrough role in the series The Get Down was a critical and audience favorite. It showcased his ability to handle complex characters with emotional depth. Following this success, Smith expanded his repertoire with significant roles in high-profile films like Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom and Detective Pikachu. These roles demonstrated his range from drama to action and comedy.
Achievements In The Limelight: A Balancing Act Of Talent & Box Office Appeal
NEW YORK, NY – APRIL 05: (L-R) Actor Justice Smith, Baz Luhrmann and Nas attend. “The Get Down” Part 2 New York Kickoff Party at Irving Plaza on April 5, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Brad Barket/Getty Images)
Throughout his career, Smith has achieved a balance between roles that challenge him artistically and those that garner mainstream success. His performances have consistently received acclaim for their authenticity and emotional resonance, making him a respected figure among critics. At the same time, his ability to attract audiences has made him a valuable player in the industry. This contributed significantly to his financial standing and marketability.
A Controversial Role: Starring In The American Society Of Magical Negroes
NEW YORK, NY – APRIL 05: (L-R) Actor Justice Smith, Baz Luhrmann and Nas attend “The Get Down” Part 2. New York Kickoff Party at Irving Plaza on April 5, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Brad Barket/Getty Images)
The announcement of Smith’s lead role in The American Society of Magical Negroes marks a bold step in his career. The film’s subject matter has ignited conversations about its themes and representation, with the teaser trailer eliciting mixed responses from audiences and critics alike. This role allows Smith to push the boundaries of his acting capabilities and engage with socially relevant and potentially transformative content.
Justice Smith’s path to achieving a net worth of $1 million is interwoven with his growth as an actor and his choices of impactful roles. His participation in The American Society of Magical Negroes represents not just a career decision but a venture into the realm of films that provoke thought and discussion, highlighting his journey as an actor who is not afraid to explore and challenge the norms of Hollywood storytelling.
30 years ago today, Nas dropped his debut LP, ‘Illmatic.’ Released by Columbia Records in 94′ Nas recorded the album at Chung King Studios, D&D Recording, Battery Studios, and Unique Recording Studios in New York City. Produced by DJ Premier, Large Professor, Pete Rock, Q-Tip, L.E.S., and Nas himself, the bangers on the album will be embedded in Hip Hop culture as classics merely based on their production alone.
The album sold 60,000 in the first week and debuted at number 12 on the US Billboard 200 chart. On January 17, 1996, the album was certified gold by the RIAA. In 2001 it earned a platinum certification after shipping 1,000,000 copies in the United States alone.
Lyrically, Nas delivered certified street verses on ‘Illmatic’ that influenced the majority of the ’90s and is regarded as one of the greatest LPs of all time by critics and major publications globally.
Vince Staples’ “WHEN SPARKS FLY” off of his amazing 2022 project RAMONA PARK BROKE MY HEART is, like many great hip-hop songs, a story. The first verse centers around a man speaking to his gun, and the second flips that angle in reverse, all through the metaphor of a romantic partner. If this sounds familiar to you and you hadn’t heard this track before, then you’re probably a fan of Nas’ 1996 classic “I Gave You Power,” in which he raps from the perspective of a gun. After hearing fans compare the two for so long, the Long Beach wordsmith finally figured out what people drew attention to.
“Finna listen to this Nas ‘I Gave You Power,’” Vince Staples tweeted on Thursday (January 4). “Since y’all keep talking about it in regards to the power ballad that is ‘When Sparks Fly’. Stay tuned.” Ten minutes later, “The Caliphate” MC came back to the social media platform with his verdict– plus a hypothetical. “So we back and this was a good tune. He shoulda put Ghostface on here.” We can’t say we disagree with him; after all, having Toney Starks on a record is always a blessing.
But Vince Staples doesn’t just look back to his predecessors for inspiration or guidance. In fact, he’s more prone to champion the contemporary, like his good friend, the late and great Mac Miller. “He changed my life, like my perspective, and made me a better person,” the 30-year-old stated during a recent interview. “I used to be confused, like, ‘Why is this white boy with all this money f***ing n***as and not [just] anybody with some substantial talent?’ Like, he would sit there and teach me how to make sure I’m on beat, and like, rap with certain energy. It took a long time… I was other everyday with nothing else to do for, like, months. He was teaching me how to rap on beat, how to project. I didn’t know how to ad-lib, I didn’t know what ad-libs was! I didn’t know what a metronome was.
“[He was] introducing me to people I had no business meeting, because I wasn’t at the skill level yet,” he went on. “I was talking to his mom today. Earl [Sweatshirt] had just came back from where he was at [back in the day], and I introduced myself to him at the house and he was like, ‘Yeah I know who you are.’” For more news and the latest updates on Vince Staples, stick around on HNHH.
Within the illustrious discography of Nas, It Was Written stands as a great testament to his artistic and commercial prowess. Released in 1996, this album undoubtedly stands as one of Nas’s best-selling records, gaining multiple certifications across various music industries. Moreover, its incredible success stamped its place among the most influential hip-hop albums of all time.
Nas (aka Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones), Vorst Nationaal, Brussels, Belgium, 14th October 1996. (Photo by Gie Knaeps/Getty Images)
It Was Written, Nas’s second studio album, soared to remarkable heights in the music industry. The follow-up to Illmatic captivated audiences worldwide with its lyrical depth and storytelling. Certified 3x platinum in the United States by the RIAA, this album certainly shows Nas’s ability to craft compelling narratives within his verses.
International Accolades
Notably, It Was Written didn’t just win over American audiences but also gained significant recognition abroad. Earning certifications like gold from the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), platinum from Music Canada, and gold from SNEP in France, this album further showcased Nas’s global appeal. Its overall ability to transcend cultural boundaries underscores the album’s impact and enduring popularity.
Decades after its release, the album continues to exert a profound influence on contemporary hip-hop. Its themes of urban life, social and political commentary, and personal introspection remain relevant, impact a newer generation of music enthusiasts. With singles like “If I Ruled The World (Imagine That)” ft. Lauryn Hill, and collaborations with Mobb Deep, Dr. Dre, and more, Nas showcased his stronghold on hip-hop. Moreover, the album’s staying power reflects not only Nas’s lyrical prowess but also his ability to create timeless music that transcends temporal boundaries.
Nas’s It Was Written exemplifies the apex of artistic expression and commercial success within his remarkable career. Its multi-platinum certifications in the United States, coupled with gold and platinum accolades from international music associations, solidify its status as a monumental piece within the realm of hip-hop. Its timeless themes and resonant storytelling ensure its place as a quintessential album in Nas’s discography.
Dame Dash has been making quite a few appearances on podcasts and interviews recently. The primary reason is that he’s been giving out plenty of insight, or at least supposed insight, on important moments in rap history. Many of them revolve around Jay-Z, which has led some fans to joke that talking about Hov is the only reason anyone is listening to Dame anymore. But in another recent interview, he shed some light on the role he played in leading Jay-Z to his iconic battle with DMX.
In the interview, he discusses people in his life clowning on him for hanging around Jay-Z because of the way the rapper dressed. He goes on to explain how the bad vibes between different groups grew and eventually spilled over. He ends the story with an incident at a pool hall involving the Rough Riders that he cites as the very beginning of DMX and Jay-Z’s issues. But in the responses to the interview, plenty of fans throw some doubt on his story. Check out the full section of the interview below.
In the comments, fans don’t exactly agree with Dame’s recollection of things. “This crazy thing about this is. If you watch Backstage DVD Dane says when he first net Jay he thought he was a Harlem n*ggaz cause the c way he dress. Now all of a sudden n*ggaz was reading you cause he dressed funny. At this point Dame doing more damage to his legacy than good,” one particularly insightful comment reads.
Other comments agree. “Dame gotta let it go, man,” and “Mans is on a World tour using Hov name lol,” two more comments read. They aren’t exaggerating either. Dame has been commenting on Jay-Z all year touching on his beef with Nas and even claiming he had a role in Jay becoming a rapper. What do you think of Dame Dash’s newest story about the origins of Jay-Z and DMX’s battle? Let us know in the comment section below.
Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary took center stage in 2023, marking a year of celebratory events honoring the birth of the influential genre. From LL Cool J’sRock The Bells Festival to the iconic ESSENCE Festival, the prominence of the 50th year of Hip-Hop was evident, alongside it being featured at culture’s biggest award shows such as the 65th Annual Grammy Awardsand theMTV VMAs.
3. Happy 50th Anniversary, Hip-Hop!
ESSENCE Festival Honors Hip-Hop’s 50th Anniversary
The ESSENCE Festival, held in July 2023, served as a platform to pay homage to several hip-hop icons and celebrate Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary. The festival featured an unforgettable performance by Lauryn Hill, who headlined the event alongside other pioneering figures of the genre.
Hennessy & Sprite Partnerships Reflect the Milestone Year
RapperNasembraced the spirit of Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary through various brand collaborations. One notable partnership was with renowned liquor brand Hennessy, presenting a special edition release celebrating the milestone.
Additionally, Nas joined forces with Sprite for a collaboration that involved fellow artists Rakim, Latto, and GloRilla, further emphasizing the significance of the genre’s 50-year legacy.
5. Queen Bey’s ‘Renaissance Era
In the vibrant landscape of 2023, where the essence of Black culture thrived,Beyoncé claimed the top position with her monumental “Renaissance” era. As we delve into the top 23 highlights of the year, Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary stands out as a pivotal moment that shaped the cultural landscape and showcased the genre’s enduring impact.
For those who still use Tidal, Jay-Z dropped a new playlist of his favorite songs of 2023 on the app (revealed via a live session) — and some of the picks might be surprising. Of course, the rapper included his wife, Beyoncé, and her new “My House” track that appeared in her Renaissance Tour film.
He also gave a nod to some other close musicians. Drake was included on Jay-Z’s list, with his song “8am In Charlotte,” the second single from the Canadian rapper’s For All The Dogs album, according to HotNewHipHop.
Travis Scott and Playboi Carti’s “Fe!n” collaboration was also one of Jay’s favorites. He also included JID and Lil Yachty, who teamed up on the “Half Doin Dope” track.
In recent years, Jay-Z’s year-end playlist of his favorite songs has become a fun tradition. Through scrolling around on Tidal, it seems he has made the annual lists since 2018.
Continue scrolling to see a few other songs Jay-Z loved this year.
1. “Jennifer’s Body” by Ken Carson
2. “Kostas” by Westside Gunn
3. “FE!N” by Travis Scott & Playboi Carti
4. “Japanese Soul Bar” by Nas
5. “Not A Drill” by Veeze
6. “89 Earthquake” by Larry June & The Alchemist
7. “Spirit 2.0” by Sampha
8. “My House” by Beyoncé
9. “8am In Charlotte” by Drake
10. “Half Doin Dope” by JID & Lil Yachty
Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
