new album

LL Cool J Says Dr. Dre Was Initially Going To Produce His New Album

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LL Cool J says that Dr. Dre had signed on to produce his upcoming album; however, after Phife Dawg visited him in a dream, LL Cool J contacted Q-Tip. He explained how the collaboration came to be during an appearance on Way Up With Angela Yee.

“So, the real story is that I did about 30 to 40 songs with Dr. Dre, and in doing those songs I felt like — the music was amazing what Dre was bringing to the table was super dope — but I felt like the writing, what I was bringing to these songs didn’t feel strong enough to me,” he explained. “I didn’t feel like I was expressing, I was getting out of me, what I was feeling. In my mind, I didn’t feel like it was written properly.”

Read More: LL Cool J Speaks On Upcoming Album, Praises Q-Tip’s Production

LL Cool J & Dr. Dre At The 2000 Radio Music Awards

Rap artists Dr. Dre and LL Cool J pose backstage after the 2000 Radio Music Awards at the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas, 11/04/00. (Photo by Kevin Winter/ABC/ImageDirect)

From there, LL Cool J elaborated on his dream with the late Phife Dawg. “So, I took a pause. Me and Dre just kinda paused for a minute. And I ended up having a dream, and in this dream Phife Dawg from A Tribe Called Quest came to me,” he added. “When he came in my dream he was like ‘Yo, that album you gonna do with Dre is gonna be dope.’ And I’m looking at him and he’s smirking a little bit. He had a funny look on his face. And then when I woke up, I just felt like Q-Tip was on my spirit. So I just called him. He picked up and I told him that I wanted to do an album. We went and did the record and the rest is history.”

LL Cool J On His Upcoming Album

The new album will be LL Cool J’s first full-length effort since 2013’s Authentic and will coincide with the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. While he’s kept details on the project close to his chest, a recent report from AllHipHop noted that Eminem, Nas, Fat Joe, Rick Ross, and Saweetie will all feature on the album.

Read More: LL Cool J Taps Eminem, Nas & More For Upcoming Album: Report

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Lil Durk & 21 Savage Go To “War Bout It” On New Song From “Almost Healed”

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Lil Durk’s new album Almost Healed is well on its way to a massive debut for the Chicago MC, and it’s not hard to see why. Sure, some tracks like “Sad Songs” caught some ridicule online, but the project is filled with deeper introspections on dark street themes, mental health, and personal struggle. However, this track featuring 21 Savage is not for that, as it’s yet another hard-hitting and aggressive offering in his catalog. Moreover, “War Bout It” is one of a few standout collaborations on the album’s tracklist, and it’s one that’s right up the feature’s alley. That’s due to the eerie, sharp, and dramatic production courtesy of none other than Metro Boomin.

While this track is nothing new or particularly surprising from this trio, it does an effective job of providing one of the more villainous moments on Almost Healed. For starters, there’s a textbook Metro beat: crisp drum patterns and timbres, menacing synth pads in the background, elegant and embellished piano leads, and haunting vocal samples. Of course, 21 Savage can ride a beat from the St. Louis legend with his eyes closed, and his flows display that skill aptly. His verse, the second and last on the track, focuses on his untouchable status and speaking down on minions who think themselves to be moguls. There’s not much more you can ask for from the Atlanta spitter these days; even if it’s more of the same, there’s a quality standard to keep.

Read More: Lil Durk Net Worth 2023: What Is The Rapper Worth?

Lil Durk & 21 Savage Hit Up Metro Boomin For Their Collab “War Bout It”

Meanwhile, the “Cross The Globe” spitter opens the track up with more evocative imagery, narrations, and references. Furthermore, The Voice has a strong ability to make his street-themed bars pack a little more punch than most other hip-hop artists in the mainstream. Whether it’s through unique descriptions or clever turns of phrases, he takes advantage of all his material. If you’re interested in checking “War Bout It” out or the rest of Almost Healed, you can find them on your preferred streaming service. Before you head out, peep some notable bars down below to pique your interest. As always, stay posted on HNHH for the latest updates and news on Metro Boomin, 21 Savage, and Lil Durk.

Quotable Lyrics
Free my n***a Zoo, I’m OTF 4L (21)
If you catch a murder, n***a, keep it to yourself (On God)
He think he a boxer, now he fightin’ for his breath (Huh)
I don’t care who done seen me, ask my lawyer, I wasn’t there (21)

Read More: 21 Savage Songs: His Best Collaborations

KayCyy Links Up With Gesaffelstein For “TW2052” Project

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If you are a fan of KayCyy, you know that he is an incredibly unique artist with a great sound. Overall, he has been getting some pretty major co-signs from some big artists. For instance, in 2021, he even got to be part of Kanye West’s Donda. Although he was eventually taken off “Keep My Spirit Alive,” he was immediately remembered by fans who were paying attention. These days, he continues to make his own music, all while performing at huge festivals like Rolling Loud. Simply put, he is here to stay.

Subsequently, he has been teasing a brand-new project with the likes of Gesaffelstein. Gesaffelstein is a super producer of sorts who has worked with the likes of The Weeknd. He has a very dark and brooding electronic sound that fans love. Overall, we get to hear a glimpse of this project with the amazing song “Roll The Dice” in which KayCyy shows off his singing chops. Now, they are here with a full 7-track EP together called TW2052.

KayCyy Continues His Ascent

Gesaffelstein’s production is fantastic all across the album. Loud drums, electronic soundscapes, and quite a bit of ambiance allow for KayCyy to shine. Some of these tracks take an industrial hip-hop approach, such as “No Cold.” However, the first three songs have more of an r&b vibe that some could compare to The Weeknd and others of that ilk. Either way, this is KayCyy at his absolute best. He is experimenting quite a bit and is doing some great things here. This new project cements him as someone to continue watching.

With KayCyy making big moves, it will be interesting to see what he sets out to accomplish next. Of course, he is still young and still has so much upside as an artist. That said, let us know what you think of this latest project, in the comments section down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the music world. We will always bring you the latest releases from some of the biggest artists.

Tracklist:

  1. Roll The Dice
  2. Ashley’s Heartbeat
  3. Timeless
  4. No Cold
  5. Okay!
  6. The Sun
  7. Love & Hate

Kodak Black Delivers 21 New Tracks On “Pistolz & Pearlz”

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Coming out of Florida, Kodak Black has quickly become one of the best rappers of the new school. Of course, he was part of that iconic XXL Freshman class from 2016. Overall, his cypher with 21 Savage, Lil Uzi Vert, Denzel Curry, and Lil Yachty was legendary. However, since that time, he has been able to keep up the success. He has released a plethora of hit albums and has a ton of massive songs to boot. Moreover, last year, he was hit with the ultimate co-sign as Kendrick Lamar put him on Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers.

Needless to say, Kodak Black is a massive artist with millions of adoring fans. These supporters are always waiting to hear what he is going to do next. Although he doesn’t always give updates, we did get some information last week. Kodak revealed to fans that Pistolz & Pearlz would be released today. If you checked your streaming service of choice this morning, you would have noticed that he delivered on this promise.

Kodak Black Blesses His Fans

This project is quite the undertaking as it has 21 tracks is over an hour long. Although the front half of the album has a lot of features, Kodak Black takes on the majority of the songs by himself. This is especially true on the back half of the track. That said, Kodak gives us a plethora of different sounds and there is no doubt that he continues to grow as an artist.

Overall, this is yet another solid effort from Kodak Black. Whether or not his fans agree, still remains to be seen. Let us know what you think of this album, in the comments section below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news from around the music world.

Tracklist:

  1. Pistolz & Pearlz
  2. Roses (ft. VVSNCE)
  3. Get Away (ft. Loe Shimmy)
  4. Flirting With Death (ft. GorditoFlo)
  5. Dirt McGerk (ft. EST Gee & Lil Crix)
  6. Dope Boy Magic
  7. Tryna Figure Why
  8. Follow Me
  9. Murder Mystery
  10. Church On Saturday (ft. WizDaWizard, Wam SpinThaBin, and Syko Bob)
  11. Beretta Love
  12. X&O’s
  13. Die Today
  14. Gunsmoke Town
  15. That For Real
  16. A Beautiful Rainbow
  17. Snipers And Robbers
  18. Balance
  19. No Love For A Thug
  20. Stay
  21. Down With You

Lil Durk Finally Drops His New Album, “Almost Healed”

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After much anticipation, Lil Durk has finally released his new album, Almost Healed. This comes two weeks after the album was delayed during a heated feud between Durk and NBA YoungBoy. The rapper has been building up excitement over the past few months. He has been providing updates and teases, and recently dropped the album’s first single, “All My Life” featuring J. Cole. As expected, the single quickly climbed up the Billboard Hot 100. In fact, it matched the performance of Durk’s highest-charting single, Drake’s “Laugh Now Cry Later.” This single gave fans a taste of what they can expect from Almost Healed.

The tracklist for Durk’s new album is impressive, featuring a notable lineup of guest artists and producers. The inclusion of Kodak Black and Future has generated excitement, as their collaborations are likely to become summer anthems. However, what caught people off-guard was the unexpected appearance of Alicia Keys. The singer lends her vocals to the project’s intro, titled “Therapy Session,” which Durk previewed in the recent music video for “Pelle Coat,” the album’s second single released prior to its official drop.

Lil Durk Takes Us To Therapy In Second Video From “Almost Healed”

The music video for Lil Durk’s latest single “Pelle Coat” features a powerful introduction by Alicia Keys, who takes on the role of his therapist. Keys encourages Durk to express his vulnerabilities and emotions, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for him to freely share. The video follows Durk through the streets of Chicago, highlighting his friends, significant landmarks like a mural of King Von, and showcasing his introspective journey. It captures Durk in the backseat of a Suburban and praying with his father at a Mosque, effectively complementing the song’s themes and displaying Durk’s artistic maturity.

Lil Durk has recently been taking big steps to make positive changes. He wants to not only change himself but also his community. The album represents much of that mindset. That doesn’t mean it’s totally devoid of bangers, but there is a depth to much of it, as well. What do you think about Lil Durk’s Almost Healed? Be sure to let us know in the comments!

Tracklist:

1. Therapy Session
2. Pelle Coat
3. All My Life (Feat. J. Cole)
4. Never Again
5. Put Em On Ice
6. Big Dawg (Feat. Chief Wuk)
7. Never Imagined (Feat. Future)
8. Sad Songs
9. Before Fajr
10. War Bout It (Feat. 21 Savage)
11. You Got Em
12. Grandson (Feat. Kodak Black)
13. 300 Urus
14. Same Side (Feat. Rob49)
15. B12
16. At This Point We Stuck
17. Cross the Globe (Feat. Juice WRLD)
18. Dru Hill
19. Belt 2 Ass
20. Stand by Me (Feat. Morgan Wallen)
21. Moment of Truth

Monica Set to Release R&B and Country Albums

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monica

It looks like R&B legend, Monica, has been working in the studio. She has confirmed that she will be dropping two new albums soon. At her last show, the “So Gone” singer made the announcement to her fans. Apparently, along with an R&B album, Monica also made a country album. She tells her fans that the albums are named Trenches and Open Roads.

The 42-year-old singer hasn’t released an album since Code Red, which was released in 2015. She dropped a single this year with James Fortune titled “Trusting God.” Last year, Monica put out “Friends” with Ty Dolla $ign. Though she did not reveal when her new albums were dropping, the “Don’t Take It Personal” artist admits she still has to add a few things.

Recently, fans have been admiring Monica’s parenting skills. On her son’s 18th birthday, she gave him $18,000 for him to invest in his business. Monica took to Instagram to reveal her gift to her oldest son. On top of that, she gave him $1,800 to do whatever he wants on his birthday. The R&B legend plans to guide her son through his business endeavors. Fans commented to celebrate her son and praised Monica for her gesture.

The post Monica Set to Release R&B and Country Albums appeared first on The Source.

Travis Scott Teases “Utopia” At Cannes Film Festival

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Houston-born rapper Travis Scott continues to tease his upcoming album, Utopia. Yesterday, Scott made an appearance at France’s Cannes Film Festival to attend the premiere of The Weeknd’s new HBO series with Lily-Rose Depp, The Idol. Scott walked the red carpet, and his security guard had the rapper’s famous Utopia briefcase in tow. Some reports even claim that Scott was seen opening the mysterious briefcase at the premiere. Utopia should arrive soon, with Epic Records’ CEO Sylvia Rhone stating earlier this year, “We have a new Travis Scott record, expected to come in June.” Scott also wore a previously-unseen pair of Nike sneakers to the event, leading to speculation that they could be a new Cactus Jack x Jordan product.

Scott has been taking an unconventional approach to promoting his latest album. He’s gone so far as to handcuff a briefcase labeled “Utopia” to a member of his security team. As of late, he’s continuously made appearances alongside the coveted briefcase. Earlier this month, Scott shared Utopia with the Houston Astros ahead of their game against the Chicago Cubs. In a video that circulated the internet, Scott told fans to expect the album soon. Early this month, as hype surrounding Utopia grew unmanageable for fans, one track reportedly from the album titled “Gold Blackberry” leaked on the internet.

Read More: Travis Scott Teases New Album “Utopia” In Unconventional Ways

Scott Debuts New Nike Sneakers

Scott also recently joined athlete Tom Brady in attending a luncheon hosted by Michael Rubin for a group of young players making their transition from college football to the NFL. Scott reportedly told the athletes how important it is for them to maintain a solid inner-circle and hold them accountable. Brady gave the players advice, sharing, “I had to keep working. I didn’t go, ‘Hey, I’m good, I won three Super Bowls.’”

Scott also teamed up with fellow rapper Offset recently, to preview new music together at Rolling Loud Thailand. The rappers also reportedly brought a fan onstage during their set.

Read More: Travis Scott Is “Not Thrilled” About Kylie Jenner’s Romance With Timothée Chalamet

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E-40 Announces Double Album, “Rule Of Thumb”

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E-40 has announced that he is working on a double album titled Rule of Thumb. Reacting to a list of rappers with the most charting albums in Billboard 200 history, the legendary Bay Area artist told his fans to “stay tune” for the new project. He added that it will be releasing on Friday, July 7th, 2023.

“Numbers don’t lie I’m just getting started 7/7/2023 E-40 ‘Rule of Thumb’ 1 & 2 stay tune!” E-40 wrote in the caption of the post. E-40’s fans were excited about the news in the comments section. “Rapping since 86 nd ain’t never fell off!” one wrote. “Run nd tell that! Don’t quote me that’s what google said.” Another added, “Let’s go bro always doing legendary moves.”

Read More: E-40 Releases New Banger, “In The Air Where It’s Fair”

E-40 In Concert

STOCKTON, CALIFORNIA – MAY 26: E-40 performs during the Mount Westmore tour at Stockton Arena on May 26, 2022 in Stockton, California. (Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images)

As for the charting album list, E-40 ranked at number one with 33 total albums on the Billboard 200. The top five were rounded out by NBA YoungBoy, Snoop Dogg, Tech N9ne, and Gucci Maine. Others further down the list included JAY-Z, Nas, 2Pac, Lil Wayne, Future, Drake, and more.

It’s far from the first time E-40 has commented on his placement for an outlet’s rankings. Back in January, he responded to Billboard and Vibe’s “50 Greatest Rappers” list. “Appreciate the recognition from @billboard & @VibeMagazine for their 50 Greatest Rappers of All-Time list,” he tweeted. “Still feel underrated nationally but nobody can deny my longevity, independent hustle, my unorthodox style and creative slang in this rap game!!”

E-40’s “Rule Of Thumb” Release Date

E-40 also recently thanked Rolling Stone for including his 1993 song “Captain Save a Hoe,” on their list of “100 Greatest West Coast Hip Hop Songs.” “Hey Rolling Stone, appreciate you guys for including ‘Captain Save a Hoe’ at No. 18 of your 100 Greatest West Coast Hip-Hop Songs of All Time,” E-40 wrote on social media, earlier this month. “But there’s no excuse for ‘Tell Me When To Go’ being completely left off the list #Timeless.”

Read More: 50 Greatest Rappers Of All Time List Shared Via Partnership Between Billboard & Vibe

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Kodak Black To Drop Short Film “The Don” Alongside New Album “Pistols & Pearls”

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Kodak Black is going for big things for the release of his newly announced album Pistols & Pearls, whether in the audio or visual medium. Moreover, he just announced that he will release his short film The Don on Friday, May 26, the same day that the new project is slated to release. In the trailer for the tale, it seems like it will center around a tough crime story following Kodak’s character as he navigates through trials and tribulations. Thematically, it certainly lines up with some of the topics of gang violence and redemption that Yak raps about. Of course, we’ll have to see if it ties to Pistols & Pearls in more of a strictly narrative or conceptual way.

Regardless, it should make for an interesting diversion, bringing his talents to a different space. “Sign up now with the link for your chance to catch the Exclusive Screening For My Feature Short Film “The Don” in MIAMI, NY, ATL, & LA…” Kodak Black wrote on an Instagram post announcing the short. “Official Release This Friday 5/26 www.officialkodakblack.com.” With this new hype around his artistic endeavors, it’ll probably be the marker of a new era for the Florida MC.

Read More: Kodak Black Says He Wants To Be More Well-Known As A Philanthropist

The Don Trailer: Kodak Black’s New Short Film

In addition, along with the announcement of Pistols & Pearls, Kodak Black hinted towards his apparent departure from Atlantic Records. “PISTOLS & PEARLS – 5/26/23,” he wrote on Instagram. “THANX to EVERYONE THATS BEEN ON THIS JOURNEY WITH ME LUVIN & THUGGIN ! I COULDNT FIND PEACE WITHOUT ALL THE VIOLENCE @atlanticrecords It’s Been Well !!! Nothing But Gratitude & The Utmost Respect.” Furthermore, a lot of things are changing in the 25-year-old’s artistic portfolio, and fans are excited to see how they play out.

Meanwhile, Yak also recently made big moves in the movie world in more traditional, but nonetheless exciting ways. His track with NLE Choppa, JVKE, Muni Long, and Jimin for the Fast X soundtrack, “Angel Pt. 1,” is one of many star-studded cuts on the compilation. Whether it’s of his own design or as part of a larger team, he clearly wants to level up with these new moves. For more news and the latest updates on Kodak Black, keep checking in with HNHH.

Read More: Kodak Black’s Best Songs

Lil Durk Unveils “Almost Healed” Tracklist

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It’s getting closer and closer to the release date of Lil Durk’s highly anticipated next album, Almost Healed. Moreover, following a very successful and acclaimed single with J. Cole, The Voice let us know early on what to expect on the project. Furthermore, he posted the entire tracklist on his Instagram page, consisting of 21 tracks and eight features, including Cole’s aforementioned contributions. Its other guests are Future, 21 Savage, Kodak Black, Juice WRLD, Rob49, Chief Wuk, and Morgan Wallen. With “All My Life” with the Dreamville boss as precedent, plus the big names and close collaborators on this list, this seems like it could be fireworks.

“May 26th Almost Healed,” the Chicago MC wrote in his Instagram post’s caption. “Call my bluff! Let me know which song I should drop tonight.” If any of these collaborations or solo tracks particularly excite you, we recommend you flock to that comments section after wrapping this article up. Some standout track titles are the opener “Therapy Session,” “At This Point We Stuck,” “War Bout It,” and “Moment Of Truth.” Also, this comes after Smurk revealed the production credits on Almost Healed, which include some of the biggest producers today, surprising additions like Alicia Keys, and the controversial multi-instance inclusion of Dr. Luke, who stood accused of various crimes including sexual harassment and other forms of mistreatment.

Read More: Lil Durk Announces “Sorry For The Drought” Tour

Lil Durk Shows Fans The Tracklist For Almost Healed

Regardless, now that the project is taking shape, Lil Durk fans must be ravenous for it to drop already. In addition to these reveals, the 30-year-old also kept up the pace with some recent high-profile and inflammatory media appearances. “Now I don’t sit up here and play games, man,” he told DJ Akademiks concerning Gunna’s plea deal in the YSL case. “That man told. You should have went in there and kept your mouth closed.”

Meanwhile, his savage feud with NBA YoungBoy also got quite a lot of hype around his next musical moves. In fact, his single with J. Cole outsold YB’s new mixtape, which caused a lot of fan debate and takes on who’s winning this beef. No matter what he gets himself into next, Durkio is poised to let his art speak more loudly than his other endeavors with this tracklist. For more updates and the latest news on Lil Durk, check back in with HNHH.

Read More: Lil Durk Net Worth 2023: What Is The Rapper Worth?