News Exclusives

Today In Hip Hop History: Poor Righteous Teachers Dropped Their Debut Album ‘Holy Intellect’ 34 Years Ago

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On this date in 1990, Trenton, NJ-based rap trio Poor Righteous Teachers released their debut LP Holy Intellect on the Profile/Arista imprint. This album was one of the first full length albums that proudly projects the teachings of Allah’s 5% Nation, which was popular at the time among rappers such as King Sun, Lakim Shabazz, Big Daddy Kane, Rakim and others. Wise Intelligent, Culture Freedom and Father Shaheed created a cultural buzz around their reggae-esque sound and style, which opened up the space in a crowded market of artists to released an anticipated sophomore album.

Produced primarily by “Tony D” Dofat, Holy Intellect’s twelve tracks focused on the teachings of the 5%, but also included party anthems such as the album’s premiere single “Rock DIs Funky Joint” and a beautiful love ballad for the positive Black women entitled “Shakiyla”.

The album was named in The Source‘s 100 Best Albums Ever while the main single peaked at Number 4 on Billboard’s Hot Rap Singles.

Peace to Wise, Culture Freedom and Father Shaheed for this important piece of Hip Hop history!!

The post Today In Hip Hop History: Poor Righteous Teachers Dropped Their Debut Album ‘Holy Intellect’ 34 Years Ago first appeared on The Source.

The post Today In Hip Hop History: Poor Righteous Teachers Dropped Their Debut Album ‘Holy Intellect’ 34 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

[WATCH] Dame Dash Said He Almost Started Rapping On Roc-A-Fella Due To The Label Being “In Trouble”

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Dame Dash Launches his Streaming Service

In an exclusive interview on the Moguls in the Making podcast earlier this week, former Roc-A-Fella Records label head Dame Dash revealed that he almost became a rapper when his independent imprint was at risk of folding before the success of the UGK/Jay-Z single “Big Pimpin’”.

Dash claims that he almost grabbed the mic himself during the production of the song and claims that the song was about him and his lifestyle and not Jay-Z.

“In that moment, Roc-A-Fella was in trouble and if that ‘Big Pimpin” didn’t work, I was gon’ start rapping. [I don’t got bars, but] I would have just did it for the company.”

Dash also delved into the beef between Ja-Z and Nas, saying that he had “no fear” of violence between the two crews despite the bitter rivalry between the two.

“There was no fear of us getting hurt when it came to Nas. I’m telling you right now, there was no fear of any violence when it came to that,” he said. “There was no fear when it came to us of any battle that we had when it came to violence. We were never worried about that.”

He also added, “Now, ‘Pac and Biggie, n-ggas got killed. But n-ggas get killed in Hip Hop now. They be battling and then they end up dead. It’s a little more serious now.”

The post [WATCH] Dame Dash Said He Almost Started Rapping On Roc-A-Fella Due To The Label Being “In Trouble” first appeared on The Source.

The post [WATCH] Dame Dash Said He Almost Started Rapping On Roc-A-Fella Due To The Label Being “In Trouble” appeared first on The Source.

Today in Hip-Hop History: The Fat Boys’ Self Titled Debut Album Turns 40 Years Old!

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The Fat Boys released their self-titled debut album May 29, 1984, exactly four decades ago today (May 29). The Brooklyn trio, comprised of Prince Markie Dee, Kool Rock-Ski, and The Human Beat Box or “Buffy,” helped put beatboxing on the map, along with Doug E. Fresh.

Considered by many to be an early ’80s Hip Hop classic, the self-titled album had no guest appearances and was one of the first to feature a live beatbox on a record. The trio then made a memorable appearance in the classic Hip-Hop film, Krush Groove, in 1985.

For its 1984 album, songs like the anthemic “Human Beat Box” and the storytelling saga of “Jailhouse Rap” gave the East New York trio a leg up against their rapping peers like Run-D.M.C. and Whodini. The timeless title track was an unapologetic ode for overweight people to not feel embarrassed about their weight, giving light to other rotund artists like Heavy D and even The Notorious B.I.G.

Sadly, on December 10, 1995, Buff Love died of a heart attack in Rosedale, Queens, New York. He was 28 years of age and reportedly weighed 450 pounds. Prince Markie Dee passed away on February 18, 2021 from congestive heart failure during the height of the pandemic. Both of them will forever be missed. The only surviving member, Kool Rock Ski, s still active on social media, and regularly posts about the Fat Boys, and also produces Fat Boys merchandise which he promotes via Instagram. He is also the host of the annual Classic Hip-Hop and R&B Cookout in New York City, which began in the summer of 2021.

The post Today in Hip-Hop History: The Fat Boys’ Self Titled Debut Album Turns 40 Years Old! first appeared on The Source.

The post Today in Hip-Hop History: The Fat Boys’ Self Titled Debut Album Turns 40 Years Old! appeared first on The Source.

Today in Hip-Hop History: LL Cool J Dropped His ‘Bigger and Deffer'(B.A.D.) LP 37 Years Ago

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On this date in 1987, LL’s Bigger And Deffer album was released via Def Jam/Columbia/CBS Records. As his second release, the critics expected the “sophomore jinx”, but received the exact opposite. In fact, B.A.D. was the album that catapulted Cool J to superstar status immediately following his cameo appearance as a crate carrying, up and coming “LL Kool J” in Krush Groove. At the time, LL also had two DJs; DJ Cut Creator and West Coast super-producer DJ Bobcat.

Recorded at the legendary Chung King Studios and produced by DJ Pooh and L.A. Posse, Bigger And Deffer contained two of LL’s biggest singles to date; “I’m Bad” and the feminine driven “I Need Love”. This was the first successful Hip Hop love song, however, it set the precedent for many more to follow.

The album made our Top 100 Best Rap Albums list while selling over 3 million copies here in the U.S. Salute to Uncle L, DJs Cut Creator and Bobcat, E Love, and the whole Def Jam team for this classic!

The post Today in Hip-Hop History: LL Cool J Dropped His ‘Bigger and Deffer'(B.A.D.) LP 37 Years Ago first appeared on The Source.

The post Today in Hip-Hop History: LL Cool J Dropped His ‘Bigger and Deffer'(B.A.D.) LP 37 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

Today In Hip Hop History: Smif N’Wessun’s Brooklyn Anthem “Bucktown” Turns 30 Years Old!

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On this date three decades ago, Brooklyn rap duo Smif N’ Wessun dropped the premiere single “Bucktown” from their debut album Dah Shinin on the Wreck/Nervous imprint.

Tek and Steele left a lasting impression on Black Moon fans, making their first appearance on wax on the 1993 Enta Da Stage LP, leaving listeners in anticipation for the next offering from the brothers from Brownsville. Produced by DJ Evil Dee and Da Beatminerz’ Mr. Walt, Bucktown is unequivocally the K anthem of the 90s, reminding Brooklynites and out of towners alike that “The Planet” is indeed the “home of the orignoo gun clappaz”.

Even with its street centered concept, Bucktown still managed to garner charting position, peaking at number 93 on the US Billboard Hot 100.

Salute to Tek, Steele, Evil Dee and Mr. Walt for this important piece of Hip Hop history!

The post Today In Hip Hop History: Smif N’Wessun’s Brooklyn Anthem “Bucktown” Turns 30 Years Old! first appeared on The Source.

The post Today In Hip Hop History: Smif N’Wessun’s Brooklyn Anthem “Bucktown” Turns 30 Years Old! appeared first on The Source.

‘Dear Fathers’ Podcast Goes To Houston With First Live Episode Featuring Icon Master P

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Dear Fathers, a leading hub at the intersection of fatherhood and culture, is excited to announce the expansion of their popular celebrity fatherhood podcast with their first live episode. This momentous event will feature Hip Hop mogul and entrepreneur Master P and his son Mercy Miller. The special episode will take place in Downtown Houston on June 3, 2024.

The Dear Fathers Podcast serves as a safe space for Black men to have authentic conversations about navigating the complexities of fatherhood. With over 5 million social media impressions monthly, the platform has become a vital resource for Black fathers seeking community and support.

This live event offers a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with other fathers as they explore themes of fatherhood, manhood, mental health, generational wealth, and more. Master P and Mercy’s participation will allow Dear Fathers to provide their engaging and relatable content to a broader audience.

Previous notable interviews on the Dear Fathers Podcast include NBA Legend Shaquille O’Neal, Rapper Pusha T, NBA All-Star Bradley Beal, Comedian Cedric the Entertainer, Actor Kel Mitchell, Comedian Chico Bean, Actor Isaiah John, and many more!

The post ‘Dear Fathers’ Podcast Goes To Houston With First Live Episode Featuring Icon Master P first appeared on The Source.

The post ‘Dear Fathers’ Podcast Goes To Houston With First Live Episode Featuring Icon Master P appeared first on The Source.

Babyface Kicks Off Multi Night Engagement at Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort Las Vegas

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This past weekend, 13-time GRAMMY Award-winning recording artist, songwriter, and producer Babyface kicked off his multi-night engagement at the Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort with electrifying performances on Saturday, May 25 and Sunday, May 26. 

Babyface took the audience back in time as he performed a curated selection of his own iconic, award-winning hits (“Whip Appeal,” “Every Time I Close My Eyes,” “When Can I See You Again”) as well as songs he has written and produced for renowned artists. The crowd went wild when he was joined on stage for surprise performances with Johnny Gill (“My, My, My”) and Karyn White (“Superwoman.”) 

Babyface will return to Las Vegas for two more weekends in 2024 – Labor Day weekend on Saturday, Aug. 31 and Sunday, Sept. 1, and Friday, Nov. 8 and Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024. All performances are scheduled to begin at 8 p.m.

The post Babyface Kicks Off Multi Night Engagement at Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort Las Vegas first appeared on The Source.

The post Babyface Kicks Off Multi Night Engagement at Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort Las Vegas appeared first on The Source.

Happy 55th Birthday To Brooklyn Rap Legend Chubb Rock!

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On this date in 1968, Richard Simpson, who is better known in the Hip Hop world as Chubb Rock, was born in Brooklyn, New York. The scholarly emcee, who once attended an Ivy League college, left his secondary education to pursue his music career.

Chub Rock entered the game in the late 80s through is cousin “Hitman” Howie Tee, who is highly recognized for his work with R&B groups Whistle and Coor Me Badd as well as creating the bet for Special Ed’s timeless classic “I Got It Made”. During the same time, Chub offerde up his debut album And The Winner Is… in 1989, led by the singles “Caught Up” and “Ya Bad Chubbs”. His real mainstream recognition came with his 1991 smash hit “Treat ‘Em Right”, which also appeared on the Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare soundtrack.

Chubb Rock moved to Atlanta and joined a radio show hosted by Silas “SiMan Baby” Alexander on Atlanta’s Majic 107.5/97.5. On October 26, 2018, they left the station and later started a syndicated afternoon radio show.

Salute to Chubbs on his 55th born day wishing him many more!!

The post Happy 55th Birthday To Brooklyn Rap Legend Chubb Rock! first appeared on The Source.

The post Happy 55th Birthday To Brooklyn Rap Legend Chubb Rock! appeared first on The Source.

Buju Banton Announces His First Performance In The U.S. After 15 Years In NYC

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After a 15-year absence, Grammy award winning, reggae icon Buju Banton is set to make a triumphant return to the United States. Fans and music lovers alike can rejoice as Buju Banton, along with The Shiloh Band, will be gracing the stage at the renowned UBS Arena in New York on Saturday, July 13. This highly anticipated return of the legendary artist and philanthropist brings an air of celebration and triumph symbolizing resilience and hope for all.

Rightfully titled “Long Walk To Freedom – N.Y.” Buju Banton’s comeback is a continuation of his return to the worldwide stage, which he kicked off his world tour at home in Kingston’s famed National Stadium, which was one of the biggest music events in Jamaica’s history with over 30,000 in attendance. 

A true testament to the power of perseverance, determination of his faith and triumphant career, Buju Banton starts a new chapter of The Long Walk To Freedom journey. On Saturday July, 13th this will also be a celebration of life as Buju Banton celebrates his birthday. “I give thanks for life each day, but on this weekend, there is a special thanksgiving and I look forward to celebrating with all of my family, friends and everyone who has prayed and supported me over the years” says Buju Banton. 

“It’s a true honor to witness the return of a legend, as history unfolds before our eyes once again. On January 16th 2011, we produced Buju Banton’s last concert dubbed “Before the Dawn” in Miami, Florida, his return concert Long Walk To Freedom Jamaica, and today we announce, Buju Banton’s return to U.S. concert “Long Walk to Freedom- NY”, slated for Saturday July 13th 2024. We look forward to presenting an exceptional concert as we partner with AG Consulting and Dahved Levy, whose experience in the market is profound,” says Joseph Budafuco, Buju Banton’s manager.

“From his last show at Madison Square Garden in 2008 to now first show back in New York at the UBS Arena, it is with great pleasure to be a part of history. Buju Banton is the baddest DJ ever to ride a dancehall riddim and all I can say is I won’t miss this show,” says Dahved Levy, radio personnel at WBLS and host of Long Walk To Freedom-NY.

The post Buju Banton Announces His First Performance In The U.S. After 15 Years In NYC first appeared on The Source.

The post Buju Banton Announces His First Performance In The U.S. After 15 Years In NYC appeared first on The Source.

Today In Hip Hop History: N.W.A. Dropped Their Second LP ‘Efil4zaggin’ 33 Years Ago

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On this date in 1991, “the world’s most dangerous group dropped their second and final album as a group, ironically titled Efil4zaggin on the Ruthless/Priority imprint.

On the heels of Ice Cube departing from N.W.A. on a sour note to embark on a solo career, the now four-man group was slowly disbanding, but managed to churn out one last full length album. Dr. Dre and D.O.C. left the group to help form Death Row Records shortly after this project was released. The album offered up three singles; the memorable “Always Into Somethin”, “Appetite For Destruction”, which featured an Ice Cube sub and “The Days Of Wayback”. Because of the group’s success, the LP did eventually reach platinum status.

Salute to Dre, Yella, Ren and Eazy for giving us a piece of Hip Hop history!

The post Today In Hip Hop History: N.W.A. Dropped Their Second LP ‘Efil4zaggin’ 33 Years Ago first appeared on The Source.

The post Today In Hip Hop History: N.W.A. Dropped Their Second LP ‘Efil4zaggin’ 33 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.