A$AP Rocky is a true trendsetter who continues to show up at fashion weeks in unrivaled style. Thanks to his willingness to take fashion risks, the rapper can wear whatever he wants and make it work. Who could forget the 2021 Tribeca Film Festival in New York, when the “Fashion Killa” hitmaker donned a slim black double-breasted suit by Celine? Not only that, he added a string of white pearls by Galt & Bro draped in front of his tie? With his versatility, it’s little wonder high fashion brands have featured the rapper in their ads.
Recently, the rapper was confirmed to front the best-selling Guilty fragrance by Gucci alongside Elliot Page and Julia Garner. At the February Milan Fashion Week presentation for the label’s Fall/Winter 2023 collection, Rocky further demonstrated why his fashion week outfit portfolio attests to his status as one of the most stylish stars. We’ve compiled all the other times he’s shown up to shows with knockout looks to serve.
A$AP Rocky At The Dior Spring 2017 Couture Show & Fall 2017 Men’s Show At Paris Fashion Week
PARIS, FRANCE – JANUARY 23: ASAP Rocky wears a brown fur coat, and attends the Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring Summer 2017 show as part of Paris Fashion Week, at the Rodin museum, on January 23, 2017 in Paris, France. (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)
Rocky. is a champion of the street-style scene. The then face of Dior stood out from the trendsetting crowd during the fashion house’s couture and Fall 2017 men’s shows In Paris. He wore a fur bomber jacket, fitted pants with suspenders, and a T-shirt featuring a photo of the house’s founder. Included on the shirt was the phrase, “they should just let us rave,” which made for an undoubtedly cool ensemble. The rapper also channeled a young Michael Jackson in his white socks and red and black Nike x Vlone Air Force 1 sneakers. He topped it all off with a single statement ring to keep the look authentically Rocky.
Then, he put a modern spin on the Canadian tuxedo by attending the Fall 2017 show for Dior Homme. There, he donned a patterned jacket and trousers. He also wore a black turtleneck underneath the printed jacket, teaming it with white sneakers from the French label.
A$AP Rocky At Dior Homme Menswear Spring/Summer 2019 Show
PARIS, FRANCE – JUNE 23: ASAP Rocky attends the Dior Homme Menswear Spring/Summer 2019 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on June 23, 2018 in Paris, France. (Photo by Jacopo Raule/Getty Images for Dior)
A slew of celebrities showed up to see Kim Jones’s debut collection for Dior Homme Spring/Summer 2019 during Paris Fashion Week. KAWS collaborated with the designer to build a massive floral Lattice structure for the label’s runway show. It was the focal point for many high-fashion clothing and accessories.
In addition, Kim Jones’ first runway show was a watershed moment in design. It furthered the convergence of streetwear and high fashion. Being a former face of the brand, Rocky showed up to the event wearing a slouchy grey Dior suit and a mesh undershirt with the label’s iconic monogram pattern. He further complimented his white suit with silver accents and wore silver Dior sneakers to create quite a slick outfit.
Gucci’s Fall 2023 Milan Fashion Week Show
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 24: A$AP Rocky arrives at the Gucci show during Milan Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2023/24 on February 24, 2023 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images for Gucci)
Italian luxury manufacturer Gucci showed its autumn 2023 collection with Rocky, Salma Hayek, Halle Berry, and others in the front row. It was a day after appointing the rapper as the face of its cult-favorite Gucci Guilty fragrance brand. At the event, Rocky sported a modern twist on classic menswear. Dressed in the current trend of wide-leg pants, which he wore with an oversized navy blue double-breasted pinstripe jacket, a white shirt, and a black tie, Rocky accessorized with several jewelry pieces. He even went as far as to have the Gucci logo woven into his hair as a tribute to the fashion house. Rocky also wore square-toe boots to finish off his outfit.
Raf Simon’s First Calvin Klein Collection At New York Fashion Week
NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 10: Rapper A$AP Rocky is seen arriving at the Calvin Klein Collection fashion show with new chief creative officer Raf Simons during New York Fashion Weekon February 10, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Gilbert Carrasquillo/GC Images)
At the presentation of Raf Simon’s first Calvin Klein collection during New York Fashion Week, Rocky stood out thanks to his brightly colored ensemble. Simon transitioned to Calvin Klein after holding the position of creative director for illustrious fashion houses such as Jil Sander and Christian Dior. Rocky dressed in the slick style of a classic cozy-boy look for the presentation. He accessorized his look with an orange vintage zip-up jacket by Calvin Klein, a red bubble coat by Balenciaga, and a matching fanny pack. His bottoms were a complementing shade of red to the color of the VLONE x Nike Air Force One Highs that he had on his feet.
Prada Spring/Summer 2020 Fashion Show In Milan
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 18: ASAP Rocky attend Prada Spring/Summer 2020 Womenswear Fashion Show on September 18, 2019 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images for Prada)
Attending this Prada presentation marked Rocky’s first public appearance after his conviction for assault In Sweden. He was jailed for approximately one month before being released. Rocky wore a navy blue jacket by the brand at the event over a black tee with navy blue shorts. For the upscale event, he partnered with black and yellow chunky socks and black oxfords. He wore diamond tennis bracelets and rings to top off the ensemble.
Mac Miller‘s death sent tidal waves through the music community. Heavily touted as a unique talent and intimate soul, his journey was left tragically unfinished. Openly addicted to drugs and dealing with depression, Mac was an example of why artists often struggle with the limelight. However, the flawed figure had a noticeable impact on any collaborator he worked with. Growing up in Pittsburgh, Miller was born to a creative family that enhanced his musical interests. By age six, he was already learning the drums and the piano.
The rapper was spitting rhymes on the school bus by his freshman year of high school, orchestrating random jam-out sessions where his buddies acted as impromptu drum sets or hi-hats. The Pittsburgh outfit would continue to hone his craft, releasing his breakout mixtape K.I.D.S at only 18 years old. Soon, making large-scale connections and signing a record deal with Rostrum Records, he released his debut studio album, Blue Slide Park, in 2011.
For all of Mac’s faults, he was one of the most influential artists of our generation. Mac was more than just a rapper, improving leaps and bounds as a vocalist or multi-instrumentalist throughout his career. With his last few albums being his best work, Mac is one of hip-hop’s biggest “what if” stories.
10. Blue Slide Park
His debut studio album, Blue Slide Park is a noticed maturation from the lyrical and production sound of his mixtapes. Mac is impressively able to find his distinctive voice throughout the 46-minute record. The project is famously known for receiving a scathing 1.0 mark from Pitchfork. However, that rating has since been disproven. Employing a timeless sound, tracks like “Party of Fifth Ave” or “PA Nights” still sound just as fresh today.
Additionally, the record sold 145,000 in its first week, shooting straight to #1 on the Billboard charts. Blue Slide Park is full of egotistical, party-rap bops. While it’s far more surface-level than his later releases, it’s an admirable full-length debut. A direct shoutout to his upbringing in Pittsburgh, it’s a transition album from his fun mixtapes to his later, more mature records.
9. Best Day Ever
The follow-up mixtape to his hit day-view mixtape K.I.D.S, Best Day Ever saw Mac Miller strip down his sound to appeal to his hoards of new fans. Bringing in fellow Pittsburgh rapper Wiz Khalifa, the mixtape was ultimately an attempt to mold himself into a household mainstream rapper. The result is mixed from front to back, as cringeworthy choruses and forced verses are undeniably present throughout the album.
However, Best Day Ever still features much of what made early-era Mac Miller great. It’s braggadocios, groovy, and has plenty of timeless bangers such as “Donald Trump” and title track, “Best Day Ever.” While Best Day Ever is mixed better while seeing Mac improve on his technical songwriting chops, it’s missing the uniqueness or nostalgic bite of K.I.D.S.
8. K.I.D.S
Iconic, nostalgic, and downright fun. The debut streaming mixtape from Mac, K.I.D.S is a coming-of-age collection of boom-bap rap and jazzy beats. Even on his early mixtapes, he had proved that he wasn’t in the game to sound like everyone else. Sampling the likes of Empire of the Sun and Nas, he displayed an inherent knack for utilizing great sounds.
Throwing the listener in the headspace of a sunny day riding a bike with friends, K.I.D.S is a 47-minute middle finger to what’s to be expected of him. Ditching high school or the traditional college route, Mac idolizes smoking weed or being with women. He and his friends are driving around town without a destination, searching for the next high of childhood. Purposefully goofy, he flexes as any other indulgent teenager would.
Clearly listening to hip-hop from the West to the East Coast, Miller integrates the two styles into an eclectic blend. Tracks such as “Nikes On My Feet” and “Kool Aid & Frozen Pizza” are much the latter, with Joey Bada$$‘s influence written all over them. However, tracks such as “Knock Knock” and “The Spins” very much contain the freedom or spontaneity of a West Coast track. While he hasn’t found his distinctive sound, Mac still finds a way to make K.I.D.S sound uniquely him.
7. Macadelic
While Blue Slide Park was largely devoid of features, Macadelic saw him work with plenty of collaborators. From Lil Wayne to Kendrick Lamar, Mac sounds far more comfortable when able to rely on the energy of others to create in comparison to Blue Slide Park. Taking a noticeable step up in the lyrical department, he comes off as a rapper who’s more confident about the subject matter he’s rapping about.
Mac Miller is unsettlingly dark and pensive on Macadelic, talking about his addiction to codeine and questioning religion. He puts it all on the table, throwing away the façade that his drug and fame-filled lifestyle was an endless fever dream. Some of Mac’s essential hits appear on the record, such as “Loud” and “Fight the Feeling.”
Macadelic suffers from the common theme of Mac’s early records of being far too long. Surpassing the hour mark, it’s a tedious front-to-back listen. However, he’s able to use the run-time to express more stylistic range than ever. Hopping from Soul to Trap-based influences, it was his most unpredictable record to date.
6. Watching Movies With The Sound Off
Mac’s second studio album, Watching Moves with the Sound Offwas his most experimental record. Playing around with ethereal beats and vocal pitch shifting, it was his most psychedelic record, as well. Mac recruited the likes of Clams Casino and The Alchemist to curate his sound. In an interview with Complex, Mac described the record as “very introspective and very personal, so it’s kind of throwing it all out there and seeing what happens.” After settling into the “weed rapper” persona for a few years, the 2012 release marked a significant crossroads in his career, where he could distinguish his narrative from that stereotype.
With guest features from the likes of Action Bronson, Earl Sweatshirt, and Schoolboy Q, Mac was an established force in the music industry by this time. Additionally, the features seemed to compliment his grittier narratives far better than on previous projects. He focuses far more on his vocal delivery on the project, which he’d been struggling with previously. Initially aspiring to be a singer before becoming a rapper, it’s no wonder he began venturing into different vocal pallets at this career stage.
While Watching Movies with the Sound Off is a little lengthy, plenty of memorable moments remain stuck in my head ten years later. You have Earl’s verse on the back end of “I’m Not Real,” or the trippy summertime vibes of “Someone Like You.” There’s no question that some of his best tracks appeared on this album. From warped reverb guitars to psychedelic synths, the record was his most cohesive and mature project.
5. The Divine Feminine
Mac’s fourth studio album,The Divine Feminine, ties together grandiose vocal harmonies and airy piano chords for his most pleasant-sounding record to date. Featuring some absolute slappers, we have some great features from Anderson Paak and Kendrick Lamar. Full of earworm choruses, “Dang!” and “God is Fair, Sexy Nasty” are two of his best tracks. Mac focuses more than ever on his psychedelic blend of jazz and hip-hop on The Divine Feminine. In many ways, the production techniques on this record would be fully realized on Swimming.
As is implied by the title, Mac is narratively focused on his relationships with women throughout The Divine Feminine, or as he puts it, “the feminine energy of the planet.” Referencing his past relationship with Nomi Leasure in contrast to his current relationship with Ariana Grande, he reflects on the subtle differences between the two experiences. Grande later confirmed that “Cinderella” was about her.
The Divine Feminine is a sonic and narrative contrast to Good A:M. Peeling back the many layers of love, it replaces hard-hitting bops with introspective grooves. In retrospect, it feels like the project that cemented Mac as a multi-creative force rather than just your other mainstream MC.
4. Good A:M
A banger-filled follow-up to Watching Movies with the Sound Off, the project sees Mac noticeably progress in terms of his ability to create a narratively engaging project. While he remains fully engaged in the pure hip-hop era of his career, Good A:M would be the last (relatively) straightforward rap project from Mac Miller. In many ways, Good A:M is a homecoming to his early rap days. The production mirrors his early mixtapes, showcasing a significant improvement from Mac.
In his most cohesive record up to this point, he discusses topics regarding addiction, fame, and personal growth. Mac states: “White lines be numbing them dark times / Them pills that I’m popping, I need to man up / Admit it’s a problem, I need a wake up / Before one morning, I don’t wake up.” In retrospect, it’s another harrowing line that showcases how he was self-conscious about his shortcomings.
Good A:M bounces from beautiful jazz-rap samples to reverb-filled trap bangers. He recruits the likes of Chief Keef and Lil B for the latter, who each deliver a refreshing change of pace on their respective tracks. While the project suffers from a common thread of overstaying its welcome, this doesn’t weigh down the record to the same extent as past projects. Good A:M is a pleasant mix of moody and hype songs that signaled his outstanding growth from Blue Slide Park to the Fall of 2015.
3. Faces
Initially released in 2014, Faces was re-issued to streaming services in 2021. A firm fan favorite, the mixtape was finally released as a retrospective celebration of his life. As Mac Miller’s astounding eleventh (and best) mixtape, the record is peppered with topics surrounding our mortality and his personal struggle to discover meaning. Up to this point, Faces sees Mac as more unfiltered and raw than ever.
While Faces is officially a mixtape, it certainly feels like a full-length experience. Running just past the 90-minute mark, the jazz-adjacent jams feature iconic Miles Davis samples and bass guitar riffs from close friend Thundercat. Oddly enough, the album feels more relevant now than in 2014. The leisurely and abstract nature of the production better mirrors present-day hip-hop styles than those relevant back when Faces was released.
An even more tragic listen when consumed with the context of Mac’s death, it almost feels as if Mac is accepting of his approaching demise on the record. “Grand Finale,” the final track off of the mixtape, sees Mac claim that it would be the final song he would ever put out. Full of fantastic features, we see common contemporaries such as Earl Sweatshirt and Vince Staples on the record. Hauling in a West Coast collective of MCs, Mac’s pen game is at its peak on the mixtape.
2. Swimming
Mac Miller’s fifth studio album, Swimming, was his most vulnerable record. It had been a rough six months leading up to the record’s release. Mac was arrested for a DUI, as he references in “Hurt Feelings.” Recently breaking up with Ariana Grande, the album contains a definite “me against the world mentality.” Mac explores his loneliness amidst a pool of emotions, feeling as lost as ever at 26.
There’s an apparentTo Pimp a Butterflyinfluence on Swimming, as Mac integrates groovy jazz basslines on the likes of “Ladders” and “Self Care.” Of course, this isn’t the first time Mac toyed with Jazz or Soul influences. In fact, Swimming feels like a project he had built up to throughout his career trajectory. Take The Divine Feminine, where Anderson Paak and Kendrick Lamar-featured tracks add in falsetto horns and rapid tempo drums.
Swimming is a fully realized version of the eclectic blends of Jazz-Rap that Mac Miller had been going for in the past. The record is so fascinating in that, in many cases, the sound directly contrasts with Mac’s lyricism. The music acts as a therapeutic escape for him, masking him from the reality of his mental state. However, this isn’t a concurring theme from start to finish. “Perfecto” is far more melancholic, as Mac references Grande with the line, “She put me back together when I was out of order.” “2009” features earnest, piercing piano chords as he sighs, “I don’t have it all, but that’s alright with me.” Swimming is arguably the best sounding project in his discography.
1. Circles
It’s both tragic and beautiful that Mac’s only posthumous release would be his best project. Circles is precisely that. Reflective and harrowing, the record was intended to be a narrative companion to Swimming. He completed the vast majority of the project before his sudden passing. It took composer-producer Job Brion to complete the mixing process of the record. On Circles, Mac Miller is swimming in a despondent loop, living on a high tossing him into the same fortuitous cycle of drug use and depressive episodes.
While Mac seems wholly lost on Swimming, Circles seems to see him find his footing a bit more. He’s more conscious of the inherent ebbs and flows of life or accepting the trends that have led him to his current mental state. On “Surf,” he states, “It’s more when I’m standin’ in crowds that I’m feelin’ the most on my own.” He continuously references this juxtaposition throughout Circles, repeating “good news is all they wanna hear” on the isolating “Good News.”
Circles was meant to symbolize a new sonic direction for the Pittsburgh-born rapper. Dreaming of one day being a singer before his rap career took off, the record felt like a new stage in his astounding evolution as an artist. Predominately indie-folk, Mac Miller raps less than ever on the record. The one exception is “Blue World,” a rare moment of clarity and contentment amidst stuttering vocal samples. In retrospect, Circles is the best form of closure fans could’ve asked for.
Dr. Dre is one of the most prominent artists in hip-hop history. Though he is known for his signature deep voice, he is most known for producing some of hip hop’s most legendary songs. He has been heavily involved in shaping the careers of Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and 50 Cent, producing many of their first hits. We have previously compiled lists of Dr. Dre’s productions, focusing on his most haunting beats and his greatest productions from the Death Row era. This list looks at the entire span of Dr. Dre’s career and the best beats he has produced.
Dre has collaborated with many artists over the years, and some of his work also features co-producers. This list prioritizes those solely produced by Dr. Dre but includes songs that additional producers worked on that deserve mentioning. This list is in chronological order to emphasize the legendary production discography of Dr. Dre over his 30+ year career.
1. N.W.A. – “Sa Prize (Part 2)” (1990)
Because “F**k Tha Police” is such an iconic statement in hip hop history, the sequel to the song from N.W.A. ‘s EP 100 Miles and Runnin’ often goes unnoticed. It’s argued the production Is arguably better than the first. The tempo and percussion are mostly the same. However, the bassline and melody breathe new life into the song. The verses sound even more powerful, specifically Dr. Dre’s show-stealing verse that sets the bar very high for the rest of the song.
2. Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg – “Deep Cover” (1992)
Before The Chronic and Doggystyle, Dr. Dre reinvented his sound and introduced Snoop Dogg on “Deep Cover.” The track has one of the meanest basslines in hip hop history. The rugged drum break allows Dre and Snoop to showcase their chemistry. It is a classic instrumental that has also been repurposed by the likes of Big Pun and Tyga.
3. Dr. Dre feat. Jewell – “Let Me Ride” (1992)
The instrumental for “Let Me Ride” provides the perfect amount of smoothness and funky. Dre’s rap voice still cuts deep but also carries the infectiously catchy chorus. The song samples Parliament’s “Mothership Connection,” “Kissing My Love” by Bill Withers, and James Brown’s “Funky Drummer.” The three classics are among the most sampled songs ever. The squeaky melody and groovy bassline on this song is a prime example of why The Chronic is so significant to hip hop.
4. Snoop Dogg – “G Funk Intro” (1993)
The instrumental of Snoop Dogg’s G Funk Intro sounds almost identical to Dr. Dre’s “F**k Wit Dre Day.” It’s a more upbeat instrumental, along with a different melody. That’s what makes “G Funk Intro” among one of Dr. Dre’s best productions. It is quintessential G Funk, which is what made Doggystyle such a classic album.
5. Snoop Dogg – “Gin and Juice” (1993)
It is impossible to discuss Dr. Dre’s best beats without mentioning “Gin and Juice.” It is one of the most legendary songs in the history of west coast hip hop. Dr. Dre provides a bouncy yet lowkey sound for Snoop’s rhymes and one of the catchiest hip hop songs of the ’90s. It’s no wonder this is a classic staple in rap, encompassing the genre’s popular Golden Era.
6. Snoop Dogg – “Tha Shiznit” (1993)
“Tha Shiznit” is one of Snoop’s best lyrical moments on Doggystyle. However, it would arguably not be one of the highlights of Doggystyle without the incredible instrumental. The pulsing bassline, along with the classic flute and organ, allow for Snoop Dogg to freestyle some of his greatest rhymes so casually.
7. Snoop Dogg – “Who Am I? (What’s My Name?)” (1993)
Snoop Dogg’s Dre-produced debut single is arguably as funky as the songs it sampled. “Who Am ?” takes from George Clinton’s “Atomic Dog,” Funkadelic’s “(Not Just) Knee Deep,” and Parliament’s “Give Up the Funk.” Dr. Dre used parts of these songs from Clinton’s extensive catalog to create the ultimate single. Snoop’s introduction as a rap superstar exemplifies Dre’s talent as a producer.
8. Snoop Dogg – “Gz and Hustlas” (1993)
A highlight from Doggystyle, “Gz and Hustlas” is one of Snoop Dogg’s greatest songs. The instrumental is easily one of Dr. Dre’s best. The music box sound perfectly transitions from the “Class Room Intro” to the most complex beat on the entire album. The deep bass, along with the high-pitched synthesizers, are one of the finest moments on Doggystyle.
9. 2Pac feat. Roger Troutman & Dr. Dre – “California Love” (1995)
2Pac’s “California Love” is an anthem for the entire state for a good reason. The classic verses from Dr. Dre, 2Pac, and vocals from Roger Troutman are backed by an instrumental that is quintessentially Dr. Dre. The piano provides the main backing for the song with the additional horns, bass, and Troutman’s use of the talk box. It also has a remix on 2Pac’s All Eyez on Me that has an instrumental equally as good.
10. Dr. Dre – “The Watcher” (1999)
Dr. Dre’s production contains a lot of intricacies, whether it comes to instrumentation or a sample. The beat on “The Watcher” is simple yet effective, as it only comprises a few sounds. The space in the beat allows for Dre’s verse to stand out, and the rest of the song comes together with the whispers of the title in the actual beat. The space in the beat on “The Watcher” is similar to 50 Cent’s “If I Can’t,” which Dre produced four years later.
11. Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg – “Still D.R.E.” (1999)
“Still D.R.E.” is such a classic song that it is almost larger than life 24 years after its release. The piano melody is known by hip hop fans of all ages and transcends the late-’90s era. It is also a simple but potent instrumental by Dr. Dre and Mel-Man. “Still D.R.E.” makes for the perfect soundtrack for bouncing lowriders, precisely what the song’s music video is.
12. Dr. Dre feat. Hittman, Kurupt, Nate Dogg & Six-Two – “Xxplosive” (1999)
Dr. Dre’s hip hop production is consistently mid-tempo, making the “Xxplosive” instrumental so amazing. It is slower yet still funky. The high-pitched guitar sound, complimented by bass and xylophone, makes for a smooth listening experience. It perfectly contrasts the jarringly explicit lyrics from Hittman, Kurupt, Nate Dogg, and Six-Two.
13. Dr. Dre feat. Eminem – “Forgot About Dre” (1999)
“Forgot About Dre” has a unique bounce that very few Dr. Dre instrumentals had before its release. The beat was shaped around Eminem’s syllable-heavy hook. It allowed for both Dre and Eminem to rap double-time. Not many Dr. Dre beats were known at the time for featuring a double-time tempo. This instrumental likely paved the way for Busta Rhymes’s “Break Ya Neck,” which is even faster and also produced by Dr. Dre.
14. Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg & Kurupt – “The Next Episode” (1999)
“The Next Episode” is another one of those songs that is an essential hip hop classic. It is vital for Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre, as well as west coast hip hop. Dr. Dre’s production of songs like this one encapsulates the period in which it was released but also stands the test of time.
15. 50 Cent – “In Da Club” (2003)
The greatness of 50 Cent’s iconic hit single “In Da Club” is that the instrumental shines equally on the song as 50 does. Though the rapping and the beat shine as co-stars, they do not depend on each other. One is just as great without the other. Each component of the beat is balanced and comes together to make one of the greatest hip hop songs of all time.
16. Dr. Dre – “Talking To My Diary” (2015)
The closing track on Dr. Dre’s third album, Compton, co-produced by DJ Silk and Mista Choc, could not be a more fitting send-off. It is the only song on the album where Dr. Dre raps independently, and the beat is just as challenging as it is reflective. It is the ultimate soundtrack for Dr. Dre to look at the success that he has reached while also reminiscing about his beginnings. The song’s end features a two-minute trumpet solo from Dontae Winslow, making the song even more cinematic. Overall, Dr. Dre’s catalog as a producer is hard to beat, and there are so many iconic instrumentals to choose from. Here are the honorable mentions of the best beats that Dr. Dre has produced that did not quite make the list:
Since its thrilling finish, the 2022 FIFA World Cup has been the topic of widespread conversation. Messi’s impressive goals that contributed to Argentina’s success and Kyrian Mbappe’s rise as a worthy opponent aroused increasing interest in the players. Fans wanted to know all about who was on the field, from their stats to their personal lives. Speaking of Mbappe, he’s not the only 2022 FIFA World Cup player giving David Beckham a run for his money. Beckham is known as a top fashion sports star with his unique style. However, there are several others who add their name to the list of players to watch. From Alphonso to Hwang, here are the FIFA World Cup players with the best off-field flair.
Virgil van Dijk Of Liverpool FC And The Netherlands National Team
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 23: Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool poses for a portrait in the photo booth prior to The Best FIFA Football Awards 2019 at Excelsior Hotel Gallia on September 23, 2019 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Michael Regan – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
Virgil van Dijk is a Dutch soccer star and one of the world’s best defenders. He once went an incredible 65 games without being dribbled past in the Premier League. Not long ago, the footballer who captained the Netherlands at the 2022 FIFA World Cup came within a handful of votes to deny Lionel Messi yet another Best FIFA Men’s Player award.
He’s famous for donning the red Liverpool jersey and the orange of the Netherlands national team on the field. Off it, the 6’5″ footballer dresses down in suits with looser fits. Additionally, van Dijk is a big fan of Nike. Some of van Dijk’s memorable gear by the brand include a pair of blue cleats, Air Max 1 Anniversary, and a khaki NSW HD Woven scope jacket.
Alphonso Davies Of FC Bayern Munich And Canada Men’s National Soccer Team
MUNICH, GERMANY – SEPTEMBER 25: Alphonso Davies of FC Bayern Muenchen arrives at Franz-Josef-Strauss International Airport Munich on September 25, 2020 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Despite his young years, Alphonso Davies has already accomplished much on the field. The Canadian soccer star is considered one of the best full-backs because of his speed, skill, and ingenuity. At the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Alphonso became the first Canadian to score in a World Cup for his country. His reputation as the public face of the men’s national team may be why he’s considered one of the best-dressed athletes in the world.
The soccer player wears the trendiest streetwear, including custom sneakers in unique colors and designs. Davies’s wardrobe boasts various fashionable items, including a Raptors jersey and a pair of Amiri logo-print distressed black jeans. Davies also boasts Off-White’s out-of-office arrows-motif sneakers and a Hypeneedz black dreaming Lamborghini t-shirt.
Hwang Hee-Chan Of Wolverhampton Wanderers And South Korea National Team
Hwang Hee-Chan is a forward for Wolverhampton Wanderers and the South Korean national team. Hwang’s “Bull” moniker originates from the South Korean public’s perception of his ferocious play. Hee-Chan scored a goal in a 3-3 tie with Germany in a group-stage match at the 2016 Summer Olympics. He also scored in the 92nd minute to give South Korea a 2-1 win over Portugal and a spot in the knockout phase of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Regarding style and fashion, the South Korean native is one the most stylish players thanks to his streetwear approach. His typical off-field attire consists of patterned shorts and shirts that match, understated silver chains, caps, bucket hats, and sneakers. Hee-Chan is a Ferragamo fan and has worn Gucci in magazine editorials.
Kylian Mbappé Of Paris Saint-Germain And France National Team
PARIS, FRANCE – FEBRUARY 27: Kylian Mbappe poses ahead of the Best FIFA Football Awards 2022 at Salle Pleyel on February 27, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Michael Regan – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
Kylian Mbappé, a French soccer player with exceptional talent, acquired a legion of new fans worldwide even if France didn’t take home the 2022 World Cup. Mbappé became the most expensive teen ever when he secured a permanent deal with Paris Saint-Germain for €180 million at 18. He has become the club’s all-time second-leading scorer, winning four Ligue 1 championships and three Coupes de France.
Mbappé scored in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final, making him the second teenager in history to do so (after Pelé). He was also the youngest French player ever to score at a World Cup. The fashion world has noticed Mbappé, and many brands are vying for him to represent them. The French player likes flashy, sporty ensembles, albeit he often features rich touches like expensive jewelry. His finest accessories include a Goyard toilette travel case, a Dior logo Boston bag, and a Hublot big bang one-click steel white pave watch.
Joachim Andersen Of Crystal Palace And The Denmark National Team
Crystal Palace and Denmark national team center-back Joachim Christian Andersen started in his home country of Denmark, where he played for a few junior teams, including F.C. Midtjylland. As a result of making his professional debut in March 2015, Andersen earned a contract extension and was recognized as the Under-19 Talent of the Year by the Danish Football Association. The Danish player is versatile and can play on the right or left side of the central defense or even in defensive midfield.
Off the field, Joachim Anderson loves showcasing his stylish looks on Instagram. From Nike to Han Kjøbenhavn, the soccer player mixes classic and trendy pieces for an aesthetic that is equal parts sleek modern minimalism and laid-back 90s cool.
50 Cent and Vivica Fox had a highly publicized and tumultuous relationship that began in 2003 and ended in 2004. No one expected the two, who share more differences than similarities, to hit it off. Fox had quite a number of successful films by the time she met Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson. 50’s career kicked off back in 2002 when he dropped the “Wanksta” single and banger tracks like “P.I.M.P.” and “In da Club.”
50 Cent first mentioned Vivica at the 2003 BET Awards when he gave her a shoutout. He thanked her for “wearing that dress,” a phrase that sounded like a joke at the time. With a host of complications impeding celebrity relationships, this one ended in the predicted script format. Despite being short-lived, 50 Cent and Vivica’s connection certainly brought some spark to the celebrity dating scene.
2003
NEW YORK – AUGUST 28: Singer 50 Cent(L) and Actress Vivica A. Fox attends the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards at Radio City Music Hall on August 28, 2003 in New York City. (Photo by Dave Hogan/Getty Images)
In 2003, they hit the red carpet and attracted public attention. At the MTV Video Music Awards, 50 Cent and Fox were seen holding hands. Fans quickly took this sign to confirm the speculation of the two dating. With the media and public to get more information, the pair decided to keep it hush-hush. While the couple was dating, 50 Cent released the track “21 Questions.” This only increased the speculations of the love affair with Vivica, with the bars on the track showing the intimate side of the rap star. Additionally, he had another starlet as his leading lady in the visual: Meagan Good.
2004
In 2003, Fif spoke about his romance with Fox while on Howard Stern’s radio show. The rapper alleged that the actress only wanted to date him for publicity. He also stated that they went public with their relationship too quickly, and even took questions about their intimate moments. 50 Cent revealed he didn’t even break up with her—he just left her on read. By 2004, the friendship between the pair was fractured, and each was in interviews commenting on the other.
Vivica Goes Public
50 Cent & Vivica A. Fox during 2003 MTV Video Music Awards – Backstage and Audience at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by KMazur/WireImage)
After 50 Cent made a disparaging song referencing the actress, Vivica defended herself. She snapped back at the rapper’s claim of her only wanting publicity. It would take years—six, to be specific—before both sides were waving their white flags. Fox starred in one of the Rap mogul’s music videos in 2010. Then, surprisingly, in 2015, Vivica went on a talk show and called 50 Cent the “love of my life.” People were taken aback, considering their short-lived, two-month affair.
50 Cent’s Comments on “Empire”
In 2015, 50 Cent commented on Instagram stating his opinion on why the show Empire dipped. He mentioned that due to “gay stuff,” the show’s success would decline and not have the success it had enjoyed in its first season. In response, Fox made a controversial comment that would stir social media into a frenzy.
In an interview with Andy Cohen, Fox called it a case of the pot calling the cattle black. The suggestion that 50 Cent was gay sent the internet into a firestorm. Fif loves a good clap back, so he retaliated as he only knew how. The feud was back on as the ex-lovers were at odds. The next few years would be relatively silent between the two, but every so often, one may mention the other. It seemed that 2017 was the year things were publicly all good, although a few hiccups here and there weren’t uncommon.
Vivica Continues To Defend 50
The two had undergone a rough patch during their relationship. However, it seemed the love they had shared was real. In defense of this, in 2022, Vivica came to 50 Cent’s defense in an episode of Cocktails with Queens. While 50 Cent had been accused of having undergone a procedure to enlarge his penis, she quickly defended it. Being a sensitive topic, she did not hesitate to defend her ex and could be seen as having a soft spot for the highly controversial 50 Cent.
Despite their brief relationship, 50 Cent and Vivica Fox’s relationship is one that stood out among the rest. With the two sharing nothing but respect between them, it remains a mystery what happened between the two. Whether the two were a compatible pair or it was just a brief stint remains a mystery.
Kimberly Denise Jones, famously known as Lil Kim, has undergone numerous noticeable transformations throughout her musical career. She has allegedly undergone surgery, and fans claimed it could be true because of how she changed. Despite all the rumors, the “No Matter What They Say” hitmaker still exudes unwavering confidence in all aspects of her entertainment career and personal life.
The rapper burst onto the scene during Hip Hop’s Golden Era and amassed great success. She has also demonstrated some notable transformations throughout her career. Clearly, her music and fashion style successes have superseded her controversial physical appearance. A noteworthy fact is that Lil Kim’s fashion has just been as iconic as her music. She is known for her daring and revealing outfits, often featuring sequins, fur, and feathers. Her fashion choices inspire generations of women in rap and help to redefine hip-hop.
Lil Kim’s Transformation Journey
Lil’ Kim (Photo by Ron Galella/Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)
Kim has been in the music business for over two decades and is known for her provocative outfits and aggressive music style. Over the years, she has undergone a significant transformation in her appearance and style. In the 90s, she established her iconic stature by working with high-profile peers like Biggie Smalls, Jay-Z, and Missy Elliott. She was also rumored to have an affair with Tupac Shakur, but she denied these claims.
Notorious B.I.G.’s Influence
Rapper Notorious B.I.G. AKA Biggie Smalls (Christopher Wallace) joined by Sean (Puffy) Combs and Lil’ Kim receives Billboard Music Award on December 6, 1995 at The Coliseum in New York City, New York. (Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images)
In 1993, Kim met the Notorious B.I.G. at a rap battle. The two became close and began a romantic relationship. Biggie took Lil Kim under his wing and introduced her to Junior M.A.F.I.A., a rap group he was part of. Soon, Kim joined the group, boosting her iconic music career to the next level. Gaining momentum, Kim’s big break came in 1996 when she released her debut album, Hard Core. The album was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies and reaching No. 11 on the Billboard 200. It featured production from some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Sean “Puffy” Combs, Jermaine Dupri, and The Trackmasters.
Lil Kim’s Iconic Prominence
The 2000s saw an experienced Kim continue to solidify her status as a hip-hop icon. Her music continued to evolve, and she released several successful albums, including The Notorious K.I.M. and La Bella Mafia. She also collaborated with other big names in the industry, such as 50 Cent, Christina Aguilera, and Missy Elliott. However, despite facing some setbacks, such as a brief stint in prison in 2005, Lil Kim’s music remained popular and influential.
Like most music icons, Lil Kim’s fashion sense continued to turn heads. She was known for her daring and provocative outfits, often pushing boundaries with bold choices. Although she faced some criticism for her fashion choices, Lil Kim remained unapologetic and true to herself. This signature “gangster” attitude only added to her appeal.
Additionally, her personal life has not been without its controversies. In 2005, she was convicted of perjury and sentenced to a year and a day in prison for lying to a grand jury about a shooting that involved her friends. Lil Kim: Countdown to Lockdown was a six-part docuseries released in 2006 that chronicled the rapper’s final weeks before her prison stint.
Dominating The Rap Game
NEW YORK, NY – JULY 11: Lil Kim performs onstage during the VH1 Hip Hop Honors: All Hail The Queens at David Geffen Hall on July 11, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for VH1)
In 2011, Lil Kim released her mixtape Black Friday, which reportedly contained diss tracks directed at Nicki Minaj. She also announced that she would release an album entitled Hard Core 2K13, but it ultimately never materialized. In 2013, Kim purportedly underwent a series of plastic surgeries that drastically changed her appearance. This led to much speculation and criticism. She denied having any major procedures and attributed her new look to makeup and weight loss.
More recently, Kim’s looks have continued to evolve, and she has maintained her status as a style icon. Furthermore, the rapper sparked debates about her outfit at the 2019 BET Awards. Her stunning makeup perfectly complemented her outfits, and her fans couldn’t get enough. Her performance was also well received.
Praise & Controversy
Lil’ Kim (Photo by Jim Smeal/Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)
Over the years, Lil Kim’s fashion style has continued to be a standout feature. In 2019, Cardi B paid homage to Lil Kim’s iconic 1999 MTV Video Music Awards outfit by wearing a similar purple jumpsuit to the event. Other celebrities have commented on Lil Kim’s legacy in the music industry. Missy Elliott praised Lil Kim as a “pioneer” and “icon” in a 2019 tweet. Fellow rapper Trina has cited Lil Kim as one of her biggest influences.
Kim has also faced controversies in recent years. The most famed one was the beef she had with Nicki Minaj. In the rap game, respect and appreciation are highly coveted by pioneers. However, Kim did not take lightly the disrespect she felt she received from Nicki. In an interview onReal 92.3 in 2018, she bashed Nicki for being selfish and not recognizing her contributions to her influence.
Lil Kim, The Legend
Lil’ Kim during No Way Out Tour in New York, New York, United States. (Photo by KMazur/WireImage)
Many celebrities have taken to social media to express their thoughts on Lil Kim’s transformation. In a tweet from October 2022, singer Lizzo wrote, “Lil Kim has been an icon for years. Her music, her style, her confidence – she’s everything. I love seeing her still slayin’ in 2022.” Similarly, actress Halle Berry tweeted in June 2022, “Lil Kim’s transformation over the years has been nothing short of amazing. She’s still got it, and I’m here for it!” In another tweet, rapper Trina wrote, “I can’t wait to see the legendary Lil Kim. She’s a trendsetter and a true icon in the game.” Lil Kim is still slayin’ in 2023, and we can’t wait to see what she brings next.
Kylie Jenner and Travis Scott are one of Hollywood’s most talked about celebrity couples. From the secret beginning to their public appearances, breakups, and reconciliation, fans and the media have closely followed their relationship. Here’s what a complete timeline of their relationship looks like:
April 16, 2017: Scott & Jenner Were Spotted At Coachella Holding Hands
Travis Scott and the reality star were first spotted together at Coachella. Although, at the time, they keep their relationship under wraps. Rumors began circulating that Kylie was dating Travis soon after the public of her split from her then-boyfriend and rapper Tyga. Neither of the two individuals ever verified the truth of the gossip.
After several breakups throughout her two-year relationship with Tyga, the pair split for good in April 2017. Later that same month, Kylie and Travis were seen together. The pair quickly became a couple and soon parents. Their cover story for GQ later revealed that Coachella was not the couple’s first date but a hangout that went well. Photos taken by fans at the events also showed that Scott and Jenner held hands as they roamed the music festival grounds.
April 25, 2017: Couple Sat Courtside At NBA Game
Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
According to eyewitnesses at the NBA playoff game, they saw Travis Scott and Kylie Jenner holding hands and cuddling. The eyewitness also added that Kylie Jenner kissed Travis Scott’s neck. According to claims, Kylie Jenner wanted people to see them together. The famous pair had two similar dates. On April 25, 2017, after they went to Coachella, the rumored lovers made their first public appearance together at a basketball game in Houston.
The second date was on April 18, 2018. “Jenner and Scott kept their eyes on each other. At one point, Kylie rested her hand on Travis’s knee, and the two also held hands,” E! News reported.
Travis Gifted Kylie A Diamond Necklace For Her Birthday In August 2017
The rapper invested in Kylie Jenner big time by gifting her a new diamond necklace for her 20th birthday. The birthday celebration was low-key. Travis and Kylie went on a double date with the reality star’s older sister Khloé Kardashian and her then-boyfriend, basketballer Tristan Thompson. The two couples went to see the Halle Berry movie Kidnap. Close friends, including Kylie’s then-best friend, Jordyn Woods, also joined the couple.
September 2017: Kylie Announces She’s Pregnant
TMZ broke the news that Kylie Jenner was expecting a baby with Travis Scott. When Kylie finished her first trimester, reports stated that the couple told their families. Early that month, it was also reported that the couple revealed to Travis’s friends they were having a girl.
October 2017: Kylie & Travis Spark Engagement Rumors
Jenner and Scott sparked engagement rumors when Kylie posted a photo of herself on her Snapchat wearing a large diamond on her left ring finger. However, she never confirmed her engagement to Travis. Fans assumed that Travis Scott proposed.
February 2018: Kylie Jenner and Travis Scott welcomed their first child
On February 1, 2018, Jenner gave birth to their first child. According to the couple’s interview with GQ, Travis was also present in the delivery room during the birth, helping Kylie along the way. Jenner announced her daughter’s birth on February 4th via social media. She apologized for keeping the fans in the dark through all the rumors and assumptions. Kylie also said she needed to prepare herself for a role of a lifetime in a stress-free, positive, and healthy way she knows how.
She also shared an emotional video of her journey throughout her pregnancy. She titled it “To Our Daughter.” The video also gave fans a glimpse into Kylie Jenner’s relationship with Travis Scott, who appeared in the emotional clip multiple times.
May 2018: Travis Scott & Kylie Jenner Make Red Carpet Debut At Met Gala
Travis Scott and Kylie Jenner attend The Heavenly Bodies: Fashion & The Catholic Imagination Costume Institute Gala at Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 07, 2018 in New York City.
Kylie and Travis made their Met Gala debut as a couple three months after they welcomed their first child, Stormi Webster. The 2018 Met Gala was the first time they walked a red carpet together since they began dating in April 2017. After maintaining a low profile throughout her pregnancy, Kylie did not make many public appearances. She publicly stated that staying away from the public eye would be best for her baby.
May 2018: Jenner Claps Back At Fans Questioning Stormi’s Paternity
People started to gossip all over the web that Kylie’s bodyguard Tim Chung was Stormi’s father because they shared a strong resemblance. The bodyguard of the makeup mogul quickly denied the rumor with a statement. Kylie Jenner seemingly followed suit with an Instagram post to reassure fans that Travis was Stormi’s dad. The post contained a photo of her with Scott from the Met Gala, with a two-word sentence that read, “Stormi’s parents.”
Kylie & Travis Split, But They’re Still Friends
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 15: Travis Scott, Kylie Jenner, and Stormi Webster attend the The 72nd Annual Parsons Benefit at Pier 17 on June 15, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Craig Barritt/Getty Images for The New School)
Kylie and Scott also welcomed a son, Aire, in February 2022. Throughout the year, there were questions about their relationship status. They were allegedly supposed to spend the Christmas 2022 holiday together. However, Us Weekly reported Kylie spent it with her family and friends in Aspen. After Kylie and Travis made their relationship public in 2017, the couple has been on and off. However, they maintain their friendship to co-parent their children throughout their relationship. Their focus is reportedly on their children and maintaining a friendship.
As for why Kylie Jenner and Travis Scott broke up recently, PEOPLE Magazine reports it because of lifestyle differences. “Kylie is very focused on her kids and her business… She is not a big partier. Travis is the opposite. He likes to party. They definitely have different focuses. They always did.”
We currently nearing the end of Women’s History Month. Overall, this is a time to celebrate women and all of the things they do for us. Moreover, it is also a time to reflect on the amazing progress we have made when it comes to women’s empowerment. In more fields than ever before, there is an abundance of strong women who are taking on leadership roles. Additionally, in hobbies that have typically been dominated by men, we are seeing more women enter those spaces. This is especially true with sneakers. In fact, sneaker companies are creating more and more women’s exclusive colorways to keep up with the demand. Moreover, more and more women are being included in the sneaker industry as a whole. One can just look at the contributions made by designers like Aleali May and Melody Ehsani, to see what we mean. That said, we decided to showcase some of the best women’s shoes for Women’s History Month.
Starting off our Women’s History Month list is this Air Jordan 4 “Seafoam.” This women’s Air Jordan was an incredibly strong release from Jordan Brand. Mostly, this was due to the nice mixture of colors here. From the white leather all over the upper to the black and seafoam green on the midsole, this was a great Spring sneaker. These days, the shoe is still available in a wide range of sizes, with most offerings going for $275 USD.
Ah yes, the Nike Dunk Low. This is one of the most legendary silhouettes ever, and the women’s exclusive “Rose Whisper” model definitely elicits some amazing reactions. The name of this women’s dunk sounds like some sort of fragrance from Tom Ford, although, it definitely contains that same level of elegance. The white leather and rosy overlays look amazing, and this is definitely worth adding to your collection. Sizes 5 through 12 are currently available online.
Wmns Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Denim”
Image via GOAT
Subsequently, we now have an Air Jordan 1 on our Women’s History Month list. Overall, you can never go wrong with an AJ1, especially when it comes in an amazing “Denim” color scheme. This shoe has some blue denim overlays that have a ripped aesthetic to them. It is a fantastic look that fans have adored since they were released. A wide range of sizes are available for a price variation between $160 and $305 USD.
Next up on the list, we have this great New Balance 550 in a “Blue Haze” makeup. This is one of the best New Balance silhouettes on the market right now, and this colorway is simply gorgeous. The white leather mixed with the soft light blue makes for a colorway that works incredibly well in the Spring and Summer months. You can get yourself a pair online for an average price of $125 USD.
Wmns Air Jordan 3 Retro “Lucky Green”
Image via GOAT
One of the greatest sneakers ever is the Air Jordan 3, so you know we had to include it on the list. Above, we have the “Lucky Green” color scheme which is set to be released soon. Overall, this combines white leather, grey elephant print, and some popping green on the midsole. Moreover, there is even a flash of red on the Jumpman logo, for good measure. This is an incredibly solid offering that is available in all women’s sizes for around $330 USD.
Wmns New Balance 574 “Moonbeam”
Image via GOAT
New Balance has proven to be quite a theme here on our Women’s History Month list. It is easy to see why given how great the brand is doing. This New Balance 574 “Moonbeam” is an example of how subtle neutrals can make for an amazing shoe. Additionally, the materials are of superior quality, which makes this a great offering for the Fall and Winter. Numerous sizes are currently available online, so be sure to scoop up a pair.
Wmns Nike Air Zoom Vomero 5 “Photon Dust Metallic Silver”
Image via GOAT
Nike has been in the midst of going hard with some of its more peculiar offerings. The Nike Air Zoom Vomero 5 is an example of that. In terms of women’s color schemes, you also cannot go wrong with the “Photon Dust Metallic Silver” version. The shoe has some amazing silvers that contrast well with the “Photos Dust” overlays. It is an unconventional shoe, however, it just works. You can currently find these online for an average price of $245 USD.
Wmns Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High “Embroidered Hearts”
Image via GOAT
Lastly, we have this gorgeous Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star High in an “Embroidered Hearts” colorway. The shoe is covered in pink canvas with some red lips that go all the way down the side. Moreover, we get a white toe box and midsole that is bolstered by a bit of black for contrast. This is an amazing color scheme that can currently be had in a wide range of sizes for an average of $160 USD.
Let us know which of these sneakers are your favorite, in the comments down below.
BMF’s story from rags to riches is one that has enchanted hip-hop for a long time. The Black Mafia Family and their leadership have been name-dropped on countless tracks over the years. Most recently, they are the inspiration behind the 50-Cent-produced Starz TV Series BMF.
“Where were you when Big Meech brought the tigers in? Because I was busy earning stripes like a tiger skin.”– Pusha T, 2018
Thanks to a small-screen adaptation, the wider world is beginning to get acquainted with the BMF story. With that in mind, we’re going to take a closer look at the real life stories which 50 and co. have brought to television screens.
The Origins of Black Mafia Family
Black Mafia Family, abbreviated as BMF, was the brainchild of Demetrius and Terry Flenory, better known as Big Meech and Southwest T.
Born in Detroit during economic depression, the brothers soon realized that there wouldn’t be many opportunities to escape their circumstances. As a result, they began dealing drugs during their high school days. Initially, they were selling $50 bags of cocaine to locals, although this would seem paltry compared to what they’d one day be moving.
The two first worked under the banner of E.D Boyd’s 50 Boyz crew. Eventually, they got got his permission to expand their operations. E.D later told VladTV that this move didn’t cause any friction as it was what he’d intended for the duo from the outset.
“I told them, I groomed you from day one to be bosses, so this day was coming. That’s the same thing I did.. I’m not in the long haul to be nobody’s worker and that’s what I instilled in them. Everything that I taught them boys, the family values, taking their crews to the mall, they took that shift from the 50 Boyz. They took that shit to BMF. I groomed them well.”
The Rise
ROYAL OAK, MICHIGAN – DECEMBER 13: (L-R) Nicole Flenory, Terry Flenory and Lucille Flenory attend the BMF Season 2 exclusive Detroit screening at Emagine Royal Oak on December 13, 2022 in Royal Oak, Michigan. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images for Starz)
That said, their rise wasn’t without incident. In the embryonic days of the business, Southwest T lost his eye in a shooting. The assailant’s identity remains unknown to this day. Years on, T was shot four times by opportunistic armed robbers during a visit to a restaurant in Detroit. Big Meech, meanwhile, weathered a hail of bullets from Ladon “Beast” Simon– the real-life counterpart of Lamar in the TV show– following the death of Simon’s nephew.
“They say it was like 18 times,” Simon told VladTV. “Some people say he got hit in the neck and in the stomach and shit. He disrespected me, so he got his ass lit up for running his mouth. After that, everywhere I went, they just run.”
Once they’d set up their own conglomerate– which remained unnamed for many years– the siblings began to recruit others. Before long, they’d outgrown their homebase of The Motor City. They moved to Atlanta, where the brothers— Demetrius in particular– would begin to make a name for themselves.
The Move to ATL
“I’ve been around a place like Atlanta for a long time,” Meech said in an interview from jail with AllHipHop. “I have lived there since the 1990s, been there since 1988. I didn’t have the problems other people had, I was through a lot of things. Almost 90 percent of the cities I touched down in, I had nothing but love. So it was never no problems. And we don’t do no robbing, we just never had no problems. When you get a crew that’s hungry, they might turn on you.”
The Black Mafia Family continued to grow to the extent that they were alleged to have strongholds in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, and Tennessee. They reportedly had over 500 affiliates on their payroll across the entirety of the US. In addition to their grip on America, the Flenorys were closely affiliated with Mexican drug cartels. At the height of their power, they were purchasing over 50 kilos a fortnight.
Hip-Hop Interactions
E.D Boyd has maintained that Big Meech wanted everyone to know that he was a major player in the drug game. As a result, Meech regularly liaised with many of hip-hop’s biggest stars of the era. The crew became renowned for their extravagant partying. There were tales of evenings with Puff. A story about blocking Jay-Z’s car in, purely to force him to ask their permission to move them. Meech is actually in the video for Juelz Santana’s “Make It Work For You” after they linked up during a trip to Harlem.
Although some stars courted their friendship, others, such as 50 Cent, steered clear.
“I first heard about it [BMF] in 2003,” 50 Cent told DJ Drama in 2019 on Sirius XM. “They were so embedded into the music business, because when you can find your pockets, people like you around. When you at the nightclub and Puffy can’t buy champagne because you bought all of it, they start to have to speak to you. I stayed away from it, because I know who I am, and I know how easy it is for me to… I might have bought something. Or it would be easy enough for people to make me involved without me being involved. I was doing too well. They would reach out to me and I would avoid it, because it just wasn’t good for where I was at.”
BMF Entertainment
Young Jeezy and Bleu Davinci during T.I. 25th Birthday Party – September 24, 2005 at Earth in New York, New York, United States. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
Over time, Meech’s familiarity with hip-hop stars and love of music would mutate into a pet project, BMF Entertainment. Launched in 2000, BMF served as both a record label and promotional company. They only signed one artist in Bleu Davinci, but the nascent label’s connections were so strong that his debut album contained features from some of the era’s biggest names.
Another artist who benefited greatly from Meech’s patronage was Jeezy. Although Jeezy never formally signed to the label, the Flenorys’ support, and proceeds, bolstered his early career.
“He was very instrumental in Jeezy’s early career around 2003,” said Marla Shalhoup, author of BMF, The Rise and Fall of Big Meech and The Black Mafia Family. “What he did in Atlanta was promote a lot of parties for Jeezy and helped get his music spread around to all the stripclubs, which is how rappers would make it or break it. He supplied fancy cars and crazy medallion pendants for video shoots. And Jeezy was really open about his very tight relationship with Big Meech. You know, Jeezy shows up in all these promotional videos in which he’s shouting out the Black Mafia Family and Meech.”
A Rift Between Brothers
Where they’d previously been a tight-knit unit, Meech’s flashiness led to a rift opening up between Southwest T and Meech. This led to an informal split. T ventured to the west coast to head up operations in LA, while Meech remained at the base in Atlanta.
Although the cause of the problem is not public knowledge, BMF capo J-Bo has said that Terry was diluting the cocaine in order to undercut Meech. When people began complaining, the beef between them intensified. Reportedly, by the time that the FBI apprehended them, the siblings were not on speaking terms.
Even as Meech made himself at home in hip-hop, it didn’t mean that violence ceased. After a dispute over a girl bubbled over, the BMF crew was allegedly involved in the infamous murder of Diddy’s bodyguard Wolf Jones, at a nightclub in Atlanta.
“When they came outside, he shot Meech and them and it caught him in the buttocks,” revealed Bad Boy Head of Security, Gene Deal. “Meech ain’t want to do nothing to him, he had enough crew outside to deal with that. The dude who got close to Wolf, the dude that killed him was the guy he got down with Brooklyn. He needed some money, he was a shooter, Wolf told Meech to put him on the payroll and that’s the dude who shot him.”
Venturing into Music
Bleu Davinci and Baby Bleu (Photo by John Ricard/FilmMagic) *** Local Caption ***
To more cynical onlookers, Big Meech’s decision to venture into music was simply a means to launder money. Marla Shalhoup argues that the music wasn’t a front but rather, a gateway to legitimizing BMF once and for all.
“He certainly was able to create a massive buzz and that was in large part through massive amounts of money. But I think that he also had this charisma that was pretty much undeniable. People would either run the other way when these guys came into the club or be overjoyed because all the women would soon be drinking $600 bottles of champagne. Meech really had genuine hope that he could transition out of the drug game into a legitimate enterprise. And that’s not an unusual trajectory. It’s somewhat of a cliché…But, for him, it was maybe a matter of timing.”
Later down the line, Meech, localized similar sentiments during a rare interview from behind bars with AllHipHop, stating:
“All my friends were involved [in the music business], like Puff, JD, Jeezy, Slim Thug, Nelly. These people were involved in music and it made me want to be more hands on. I saw how a lot of artists were getting jerked and that’s something I was going to change, once I got my foot all through the door. But the government saw me with my foot almost closing the door and they ended up giving me these trumped up charges.”
The Fall of BMF
As is always the case, no empire of this nature can last forever. Once the FBI launched what was codenamed Operation Motor City Mafia in 2003, it was only a matter of time until the net closed in.
In 2005, Meech and Southwest T were indicted under the CCE (Continuing Criminal Enterprise) statute. This legal apparatus carries stringent sentences in the same vein as a RICO charge, often amounting to life imprisonment. The charges filed against the Flenory brothers were two of over 150 indictments relating to BMF. In doing so, the FBI essentially eradicated BMF’s entire network. Even Jacob Arabov, better known in hip-hop circles as Jacob The Jeweler, was prosecuted on money laundering offenses. He eventually served two years in prison on a lesser charge of falsifying statements
According to the Department of Justice, “at its peak during 2003-2004, the BMF was moving hundreds of kilograms of cocaine into Atlanta, Detroit, and other distribution hubs every month.”
“The drugs would arrive in vehicles – often limousines – with secret compartments or ‘traps’. These same trap vehicles would then be filled with cash (the proceeds from drug sales) to be sent back to the Mexican sources of supply.”
BMF Indictment
In the process of the indictment, the feds seized $21 million worth of assets, including cash, jewelry, 13 homes in Metro Detroit, Georgia and Los Angeles, and three dozen vehicles. During the two year long investigation, they accumulated over 900 pages of wiretapped conversations between Southwest T and others. Many of the conversations pertained to not just the operation, but Terry’s fears over Meech’s excessive partying and the attention it drew.
In November 2007, the brothers pleaded guilty to running a continuing criminal enterprise “involving the large-scale distribution of cocaine throughout the United States from 1990 through 2005.” By doing so, they got a 30-year sentence. Robert Corso, who was in charge of the case, claimed at the time that it “demonstrate[s] that no matter how large the operation, or how much money a drug trafficker makes illegally, eventually the law and justice will catch up. This community and communities across the United States are safer with the Brothers Flenory behind bars.”
Prison & The BMF TV Series
ROYAL OAK, MICHIGAN – DECEMBER 13: Demetrius “Meech” Flenory Jr., and Terry Flenory attend the BMF Season 2 exclusive Detroit screening at Emagine Royal Oak on December 13, 2022 in Royal Oak, Michigan. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images for Starz)
Although it is nonexistent today, Demetrius Flenory Jr. or Lil Meech– who plays his father in the BMF TV series– can relive his halcyon days of power while incarcerated.
“What’s crazy is, every jail is different”, he revealed. “Some jails don’t show premium cable, premium channels. So, he got blessed that the jail he’s in, he’s able to watch the show.”
Meech who is now 54 years old, is seemingly aware of his enduring influence on hip-hop culture. He told DJ Vlad during an interview from jail that “even 2 Chainz told me when I spoke to him… I got a foreign whip, you got everybody down here driving foreigns.”
The show which documents Meech and his brother’s lives has been a smash hit. And, according to its writer, Randy Huggins, it sticks as true to the actual events as it can.
“I took some liberties, but everything there is based on a story,” Huggins informed Urban Hollywood 411. “Obviously, you can’t have people’s names in there. Obviously, some of the places may have changed.”
However, it’s still pretty close to life. “I don’t think there’s a character in there that I hadn’t heard of,” he said. “I may have to take creative liberty to make an art pop a little bit more… take a creative license to make a scene funnier, but that’s just part of telling a story. This is not a documentary.”
Southwest T & Big Meech’s Release
In 2020, Terry Flenory was released on compassionate grounds during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately for Big Meech, his attempt to be released on the same grounds was halted. According to attorneys, his disciplinary record in prison and continued infatuation with “money, cars, clothes and hoes” meant that he hadn’t been sufficiently reformed.
As it stands, Big Meech’s release is earmarked for 2028.
Nicki Minaj has long-since cemented herself as one of the household names in hip-hop and rap. The female rapper and singer/songwriter has displayed an innate ability to create top-charting tracks in both the pop and rap lanes throughout her career. However, a deeper dive into her catalog proves that she’s more than a hit artist. Her vulnerable songwriting and diverse sonic directions have made for a truly impressive catalog.
The New York City-raised artist first made a name for herself from 2007 to 2009, releasing 3 mixtapes within that time period. Already displaying an innate ability to bounce between braggadocios verses and heartfelt vocal falsettos, her childhood influences ranged from Janet Jackson to Nas. Minaj would start the 2010s off with her debut full-length project in the form of “Pink Friday.” Featuring artists such as Drake, Eminem, Kanye West, and Rihanna, she spent no time becoming one of the hottest names in the music industry.
After her first release, Minaj would continue to expand her scope as an artist. With a limelight personality, she would go on to release hit tracks such as “Anaconda” and “Starships.” Additionally, she would put a microscope the pop scene by releasing “The Pinkprint” in 2014. Most recently, she released “Queen” in 2018. Amidst a strong run of features in 2020 and 2021, she’s been teasing a new album on social media. Still one of the biggest artists in the world, this list is all about the very best tracks from her diverse catalog (so far).
Let us know what your favorite Nicki Minaj songs are in the comments.
Champion
The seventh track from her sophomore project “Pink Friday… Roman Reloaded,” “Champion” is a triumphant song from start to finish. Booming drums and shimmering synths add to the celebratory mood of the song. Minaj reflects on her work ethic propelling her out of Queen, speaking directly to her family and friends who supported her rise to fame. Impressively, she outperforms the features from Drake and Nas. However, her ability to get two of the most relevant names in hip-hop on the same track was massively telling about Minaj’s pristine status in the music industry. In addition, she absolutely kills the hook on what is likely the best track off of this record.
Listen
Recording artists Skylar Grey (L) and Nicki Minaj perform onstage at the 2014 American Music Awards. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Bed of Lies
Nicki Minaj and Skylar Grey bounce off of each other on the uncanny and heartbreaking “Bed of Lies.” The track is a direct response to her sudden breakup with 11-year-long partner and fellow MC Safaree. Grey delivers what is the best feature on “The Pink Print,” with an ethereal hook. For the numerous bangers that Minaj is known for, “Bed of Lies” showcases her ability to let her songwriting be the driving force of an engaging track. Painting her ex exploitative and soulless, she states: “You can never make eye contact, everything you got was based off of my contact.”
Listen
Grand Piano
Coming right after “Bed of Lies,” “Grand Piano” is essentially a narrative continuation of that track. Undoubtedly Minaj’s most powerful outro track, she is self-deprecating regarding her naivety in believing that her heart could never be broken. While “The Pink Print” is a record that endorses female power, “Grand Piano” is Minaj letting her audience know that for all of the boldness and power which she displays, the scars are still there. Driven by somber piano chords, it’s one of her most impressive vocal performances to date.
Listen
Recording artist Nicki Minaj accepts award for Best Hip-Hop Video for ‘Anaconda’ onstage during the 2015 MTV Video Music Awards. (Photo by Christopher Polk/MTV1415/Getty Images)
Anaconda
Hear me out. “Anaconda” is mildly cringe-worthy and unbearable to listen to. There’s no denying that. However, “Anaconda” is the track that solidified Minaj as a global icon both as a musician and as a personality. The music video was a hot topic of debate throughout, as old heads argued that it’s expression was overtly vulgar and sexual. Approaching 10 years since it’s release, the song highlighted a shift towards body positivity and sexuality through less of a filtered lens. Minaj stated: “I wanted to reinstate something. Because of the shift in pop culture, even hip-hop men are really glorifying the less curvy body. I wanted to say, ‘Hey ladies, you’re beautiful’”.
Listen
Moment 4 Life
The hit song from Nicki Minaj’s debut album, “Moment 4 Life” resembles the cinematic sound of much of her earlier mixtapes. Similar to the previously mentioned “Champion”, Minaj and Drake are each marveling at their success in their lives. Through and through a nostalgic feel-good song, the duo are at the top of the mountain; “I can’t believe we really made it, I’m partly surprised.” Booming drums and soft piano chords seamlessly mix, as Minaj states “I wish that I could have this moment for life” on one of her catchiest hooks to date.
Listen
Right By My Side
Nicki Minaj’s feature choices have been relatively hit or miss throughout her catalog. However, Minaj and Chris Brown flourish together on “Right By My Side.” Ironically, Brown doesn’t even write his verse for the track. One of the noteworthy tracks from the up-and-down “Pink Friday… Roman Reloaded” record, it’s an uncompromising love song. Minaj states “I can’t eat, I can’t sleep, what I need is you right by my side.” A heartwarming blend of high hats and drums, it’s a relatively simple song that showcases Minaj and Brown’s vocal talents.
Listen
LAS VEGAS, NV – MAY 21: (L-R) Recording artists Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, and Drake attend the 2017 Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena on May 21, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/BBMA2017/Getty Images for dcp)
Seeing Green
It wasn’t possible to make this list without featuring “Seeing Green.” Initially released to streaming in 2021, the song was actually created in 2009 as a part of the featured mixtape, “Beam Me Up Scotty.” Sampling Heather Headley’s “In My Mind,” the production is absolutely killer. Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, and Drake are each at the top of their pen games, with bars such as: “I am the star in any room that I stand in / I am the stand-out, you just my stand in.”
(@hwangheechan)
