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Jay-Z’s “Vol. 2…. Hard Knock Life” Outsells “Watch The Throne” As His Highest Selling Album
Jay-Z has a catalog that spans back nearly 30 years. From the release of Reasonable Doubt to 4:44, Hov has delivered bodies of work that have served as the soundtracks of our lives. Of course, projects like The Blueprint and The Black Album were deemed instant classics but they aren’t necessarily his highest-sellers. For a long time, his collaborative effort with Kanye West, Watch The Throne, had the highest sales in his catalog but now, but that’s now been overtaken by one of his most underrated projects of all time.
The RIAA has officially updated Jay-Z’s page to name Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life as his largest-selling album of all time. Moving 6M copies to date, the album has officially sold more than Watch The Throne, which is only 5x platinum. It’s an incredible feat that speaks volumes about the timeless music he created. Though Vol. 2 isn’t necessarily the most celebrated album in his catalog, it undoubtedly boasted some of his most iconic hits, from “Money Cash Hoes” ft DMX to “Hard Knock Life” and “N***a What, N***a Who (Originator 99).”
Jay-Z’s “Vol. 2” Is Officially 6x Platinum
Hov’s latest RIAA update comes days after The Blueprint reached a new milestone in its 20+ year history. The album officially finally reached triple platinum status but it took roughly two decades to reach this achievement. The Blueprint previously hit the double platinum mark on May 1st, 2002. However, that was also at a time when you actually needed to buy CDs, rather than subscribe to Spotify or Apple Music. Nonetheless, it’s clear that there are fans, both old and new, revisiting the iconic album.
Hopefully, the recent certification indicates what’s in store for Jay-Z’s upcoming surprise performance in Paris. The Brooklyn-born star announced that he’ll be performing a celebration concert as part of the Basquiat x Warhol Exhibit by Foundation Louis Vuitton. The intimate setting will certainly allow fans to witness Jay perform his biggest hits but perhaps, that might include a few deep cuts from Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life. The rapper will hit the stage on April 14th, marking his first performance in France’s capital since the On The Run II tour with Beyoncé.
Chlöe’s “In Pieces” First-Week Sales Come In At 10K, Social Media Reacts
It’s no secret that internet trolls love to throw shade at artists based on their first-week sales numbers – particularly women in the industry. In the past, names like Saweetie and Doja Cat have been clowned for selling less than 10K or failing to chart. Now, it’s Chlöe who’s feeling the heat. After teasing her fans for over a year, the R&B darling finally unveiled her In Pieces album back in March. It boasts impressive solo efforts, as well as features from the likes of Chris Brown, Missy Elliott, and Future.
The Atlanta-born artist poured plenty of hard work and dedication into the 14-track effort. Ultimately, however, she seems to have missed the mark with most of her audience. After an impressive rollout, Chlöe’s In Pieces moved just 10K units in its first week out, charting at #119 on the weekly Billboard 200 update. In comparison, she and little sister Halle Bailey sold 24K units with their joint project, Ungodly Hour, which charted much higher at #16.
Chlöe’s First Solo Album Debuts at #119
@chartdata shared the numbers via Twitter early on Monday (April 10) morning. Since then, users have had plenty to say about In Pieces. “Who cares where it charted? It was an amazing project,” one person insisted. In response, someone else chimed in, “It seemed rushed, I didn’t like it.” Elsewhere, some blamed Beyoncé’s lack of support as a reason for Chlöe’s flop, while others accused her fans of not showing out for her in the way that they should. “If her fanbase wouldn’t compare her to artists 30x bigger than her and actually bought her music this wouldn’t have happened,” they wrote alongside a GIF of an exasperated Bad Bunny pouring himself a drink.
Further down in the replies, another fan reminded us that Doja Cat’s Hot Pink project sold just 7.9K units following its debut, ultimately landing at #93 on Billboard‘s ranking. Even with such low initial numbers, the Planet Her hitmaker has still gone on to have a successful career, in the same way that the “Surprise” songstress is bound to as well. Keep scrolling to read more Twitter reactions to Chlöe’s first-week sales. Afterward, tell us your thoughts on her In Pieces album in the comments.
Social Media Reacts
if her fanbase wouldn’t compare her to artists 30x bigger than her and actually bought her music this wouldn’t have happened pic.twitter.com/YGU5NGWw6j
— Ad☈iann (not a celebrity)
(@adriann_pov) April 10, 2023
Y’all don’t realise that she made this album for the arts and not for the charts… Like leave sister alone!
— you’re on your own, b*tch
(@w_x_l_t_r_p_c_k) April 10, 2023
i demand a recount pic.twitter.com/iKeanrWJNS https://t.co/85ODjfc6Bv
— Jas is in renaissance
(@mugleryonce) April 10, 2023
Just happy it actually charted. We celebrate the small wins
https://t.co/4egptZ1tmq pic.twitter.com/dOroI3CCyJ
— Abs
(@badkindofsiren) April 10, 2023
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Beyoncé’s “CUFF IT” Surpasses “Halo” As Her Longest-Charting Solo Song Of All Time
In less than two months, Beyoncé and her crew will head out to amaze audiences with her long-awaited RENAISSANCE tour. While jokes about the mother of three practicing vocal runs while sprinting on the treadmill in heels, and exclusively consuming almonds and water to keep her figure right have been circulating on social media, her album continues to speak for itself by breaking more records. Most recently, one of her newer songs beat out an old fan favourite as her longest-charting solo song of all time.
Twitter account @PopBase shared the news on Monday (March 27) evening, that Beyoncé’s 2008 hit, “Halo,” has officially been surpassed by “CUFF IT” on the Billboard Hot 100 in terms of total weeks charting. The former song arrived on the Houston native’s I Am… Sasha Fierce album, and has an undeniably ethereal, feel-good vibe to it. The latter, of course, is on the RENAISSANCE project and has since seen incredible remixes from Blxst and Bey herself.
“CUFF IT” Continues to Break Records
While “CUFF IT” is undeniably a fan favourite, other popular titles from the 16-song tracklist include “BREAK MY SOUL,” “ALIEN SUPERSTAR,” and “ENERGY” featuring Beam. Shortly after unveiling RENAISSANCE to the world last summer, Beyoncé hinted that the project was part of a trilogy, though it remains unclear when the next two albums will be arriving. As for her tour, it’s due to begin on May 10 in Stockholm, before the vocalist takes over stages in various other cities around the world. Ahead of the big premiere, fans got a preview of what’s to come when Beyoncé made a grand return in Dubai earlier this year.
At the time, she was helping to celebrate the opening of a new hotel in the luxurious country, and celebrity friends like Kendall Jenner, Chloe and Halle Bailey, and her husband, Jay-Z were all in attendance. A strict no-phones policy was enforced ahead of the performance, though some attendees still managed to capture clips and leak them online. While what we saw of that show was undeniably impressive, it’s likely that the upcoming RENAISSANCE shows will only be better thanks to the Virgo superstar’s incredible work ethic. Revisit “CUFF IT” below, and check back later for more music news updates.
Revisit the Popular Track
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Eminem Is The First & Only Rapper With Two Diamond Albums
Eminem has been all over the news this week following recent comments made by Melle Mel. The Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five rapper explained why he didn’t think Em was one of the greatest rappers alive. Though his assessment was rather surface-level, his comments came after Billboard and Vibe listed him at #5 among the greatest rappers of all time. Billboard and Vibe based their criteria on: “body of work/achievements (charted singles/albums, gold/platinum certifications), cultural impact/influence (how the artist’s work fostered the genre’s evolution), longevity (years at the mic), lyrics (storytelling skills) and flow (vocal prowess).”
It’s hard to deny that Eminem hasn’t mastered each of these aspects. As a student of the game, his flow and bars were patterned by the legends before him. Treach, Redman, and plenty of other rappers have undoubtedly influenced the unique style that Em cultivated. Then, when it comes to his cultural impact and influence, artists like Kendrick Lamar, and most recently, Kevin Gates have put him in their top 5 rappers dead or alive.
Eminem Goes Diamond Twice
In the conversation of RIAA certifications and Billboard accomplishments, Eminem undoubtedly earned that spot at #5. This week marked the one-week anniversary since Eminem became the first and only rapper to earn two diamond-certified albums. On March 8th, 2022, the RIAA certified two of his albums as double platinum, as XXL points out. The Eminem Show officially reached 11M units sold while The Marshall Mathers LP reached diamond status on the same day.
Both The Eminem Show and The Marshall Mathers LP are two of Em’s most celebrated bodies of work. Though controversial, 2000’s The Marshall Mathers LP includes some of Em’s most revered songs, such as “Kim” and “Stan” – two songs that showcased the depth of his lyrical prowess. Meanwhile, The Eminem Show came at the height of Em’s popularity in the mainstream and largely detailed how he grappled with fame, along with a far more political commentary on songs like “Mosh.”
What is Lebron James’ net worth?
LeBron James has a lot of titles under his belt: MVP, Rookie of the Year G.O.A.T. (arguably), All-Star and many more. A few of those could be applied to other NBA stars who have also won plenty of accolades, but he does have one that most athletes don’t: billionaire.
The NBA star has spent 20 seasons atop the NBA as arguably its best player through that entire stretch. That alone would result in a lot of money as James has had quite a few lucrative contracts as a result.
LeBron James’ official net worth is $1 billion. He hit this mark in June of 2022, per Forbes’ estimation. The Los Angeles Lakers star hit a financial milestone only achieved by two other athletes: Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan.
That $1 billion number will continue to grow, especially after James retires and transitions to Hollywood, sports analysis, ownership or anything else he decides to pursue. Here’s how he got to that mark, though.
How LeBron James’ net worth reached $1 billion
LeBron James began this journey back in 2003 when he was first drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers. His initial contract afforded him just over $4 million according to Spotrac.
As he continued to get better and more money was available in sports, his contracts got bigger and bigger. His first contract with the Miami Heat gave him $14.5 million. When he rejoined the Cavaliers, it was for $20.6 million.
Signing with the Lakers proved to be an excellent financial decision, as his most recent contract year (2022-2023) earned almost $44.5 million. All totaled, James has earned about $431.9 million over 20 seasons.
LeBron James’ endorsements
That is only a fraction of his net worth, though. Being the most profitable face in basketball (and perhaps the entire sports world) has its perks. James has been endorsed by or a sponsor for a lot of brands over the years.
These include but are not limited to Coca-Cola, 2K Sports, Tonal, Ruffles, AT&T, Beats Electronics, KIA Motors, Nike, Walmart, RIMOWA, Mountain Dew, GMC and Wheaties.
Nike has been a huge contributor to LeBron James’ staggering net worth. Just from his 2016 contract with the company for a shoe deal, the NBA’s leading scorer will earn another $1 billion over his lifetime.
James also became the face of Ruffles, which is one of the biggest potato chip brands in the world. They’re the official chip brand of the NBA, which only helps improve the net worth of the league’s biggest star.
AT&T has plenty of star athletes as sponsors. They frequent the commercials, such as LaMelo Ball, Matthew Stafford or Sue Bird. They pale in comparison to the value and recognizability of James, though.
The Lakers’ forward has also been a luxury ambassador for Kia Motors since 2014. They are one of the more prominent car brands and even partnered with the athlete to make the LeBron James Stinger GT, a car after his own name.
James signed with Beats in 2008 and earned $1 million per commercial with them. It’s rumored that he earned over $500 million after Apple bought the company.
These are just a few of the endorsements that the 20-year NBA veteran has earned, but it’s easy to see how he’s accumulated a net worth of over $1 billion. Being a star athlete has its financial perks, but endorsements are where a lot of the money truly comes from.
LeBron James in Hollywood: The making of a billionaire
Playing in Los Angeles has its downsides, but it also has a lot of perks. It’s right near Hollywood, which is where James has spent some time. Per IMDb, the NBA superstar has been a producer for 52 projects, with six more upcoming.
He’s also been an actor, starring in films like Space Jam: A New Legacy, Trainwreck, House Party (2023) and Smallfoot. These movies aren’t cheap to make and the stars often get sizable paydays.
He is also credited as a writer for four projects. While he’s obviously not known for his movie and television star power, James has clearly had a lot of experience (and a lot of money) in that arena.
It takes a lot to earn $1 billion in any field. Athletes, even those on absurd $500 million deals, have rarely achieved this feat. Most people don’t achieve this feat as only about 3,300 people are currently billionaires.
James’ on-court stats, highlights and more are impressive, but what he’s done off of it is equally as impressive.
Becoming the NBA’s leading scorer is incredibly challenging, but so is becoming only the second billionaire in NBA history- and the first to ever become one while still playing. Even Michael Jordan, who ascended to billionaire status in 2016, didn’t do that.
Ice Spice & Lil Tjay’s “Gangsta Boo” Marks Her Billboard Hot 100 Debut
On her viral “In Ha Mood” single, Ice Spice lyricized about being proud of her constant growth as an artist. Today (January 31), her rise to superstardom continues as the 23-year-old makes her debut on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 chart.
As the outlet notes, her collaboration with Lil Tjay on “Gangsta Boo” appears on the list dated February 4th in the 82nd position. It was officially released on January 20th as one of the six titles on her Like..? EP via Dolo/TenThosand Projects/Capitol Records.
The popular song has amassed upwards of five million U.S. streams and over 725K radio airplay audience impressions. Additionally, there were 3,000 downloads in the first week (ending January 26), Luminate states.
The Hot 100 debut is huge news for Spice, though that’s not the only chart where it’s doing numbers. Hot Rap Songs and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs have “Gangsta Boo” sitting at No. 16 and 32, respectively.
The New Yorker’s Like..? project is doing well overall. Presently, it’s No. 13 on Top Rap Albums and No. 19 on Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums. On the all-genre chart, the “Bikini Bottom” rhymer’s work landed at No. 37 after moving 15K equivalent album units.
Spice has had plenty to say while doing press for her recent arrival. While chatting with Ebro Darden, she revealed that her type is “good boys & girls,” not hoodrat types. She also dished about her backstage experience at Drake’s legendary Apollo Theatre shows earlier this month.
Besides celebrating this major career milestone, Spice recently found herself clearing up any drama with Chance The Rapper. Over the weekend, the 29-year-old asked the redhead if she was throwing shade on her new EP.
Read what the rap diva had to say about the situation here, and check back later for more hip-hop news updates.
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SZA Ties Whitney Houston’s Billboard Record
SZA’s newest album SOS tied Whitney Houston’s record for the longest-running R&B album at Billboard‘s No. 1 spot. Moreover, SOS just accomplished seven weeks atop their 200 album chart, which Houston did with her 1987 sophomore album, Whitney. While that album was the first R&B by a woman to reach the top spot, the new generation also pushed boundaries.
Furthermore, SOS is the longest-running No. 1 album by a woman since Adele’s 25 in 2016. Additionally, it’s the first album to spend at least seven weeks straight on the charts since Disney’s Encanto soundtrack in March of 2022. Moreover, the last R&B or hip-hop album to do so was Drake’s 2018 album Views, which spent 13 non-nonsecutive weeks at No. 1.
Overall, the TDE artist’s success is nothing short of astounding. For example, the new album garnered over 400 million streams for the biggest first-week album streams ever in R&B. Also, it’s the second-biggest streaming week of all time for a female artist. With dominant singles like “Kill Bill,” we’re sure that the numbers will keep stacking.
However, it’s not all the 33-year-old has to look forward to. Moreover, her first arena tour starts soon, kicking off in Columbus, Ohio in late February. Later, SZA’s scheduled for 17 shows in total, ending in March in Los Angeles.
Meanwhile, SZA also recently teased a collaboration with Miley Cyrus, who just dropped the much-anticipated single “Flowers.” Cyrus also shouted her out for her success, and said she’s looking forward to linking up. Given similar praise from the likes of Taylor Swift and many more, the “Gone Girl” star is dominating the industry. What’s more is that her song even got actress Vivica Fox to want to star in another Kill Bill.
MAJOR congrats to Miley !!! Excited for her album and to work together
— SZA (@sza) January 25, 2023
Still, what did you think of SZA and Whitney Houston having some of the longest-running No. 1 albums in R&B? Whatever the case, let us know in the comments down below. Also, as always, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news on SZA, chart numbers, and amazing voices in R&B.
Jhené Aiko Dubs Herself “Nami & Noah’s Mom” While Sharing Stunning Selfies
Motherhood looks great on Jhené Aiko. Last year, the “While We’re Young” songstress welcomed her and Big Sean’s first child together. The musical couple named their little boy Noah. They’ve loved gushing about him all over social media since his birth.
Of course, the R&B starlet has been familiar with parenting for some time now. She’s already a girl mom to 14-year-old Namiko Love Browner, who she shares with O’Ryan. At the time, she was in her early 20s but was able to be a positive role model for her daughter as they grew up together.
@jheneaiko he definitely said ily first
#fyp
This past weekend, Aiko and her beau were very active on TikTok, posting all kinds of fun family content for their fans. We heard them serenade their little one with a duet of their highly favoured “I Know” collaboration. They also hit each other with pillows while answering questions about their relationship.
On Instagram, the California native also dropped off some heartwarming content in the form of a photo dump. “Nami & Noah’s mom checking in,” she wrote in the caption.
The first picture sees her posing in the mirror, rocking curly hair and a black tank top. Afterward, we see a stunning selection of creative makeup looks, sultry selfies, and sneak peeks into the TWENTY88 collaborator’s luxurious home.
Aiko’s last slide provides a friendly reminder to readers – “Confidence is calm, ego makes a lot of noise.”
In the comment section, her second baby daddy didn’t hesitate to hype his girl up. “Got damn big titties,” the “Guap” hitmaker wrote alongside a heart emoji. So far, nearly 8K viewers have given his hilarious response a like.
She and Big Sean are happier than ever as a family with their new baby, but the singer didn’t have such a smooth experience with her first pregnancy. When she and former boyfriend O’Ryan realized they were expecting in their early 20s, the OnlyFans creator made the decision that he couldn’t be Aiko’s partner and be a good father to their child.
Read everything Omarion’s brother had to say about his failed relationship with Jhené here, and check back later for more pop culture news updates.
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Here are the First Week Numbers for Trippie Redd’s ‘Mansion Musik’
