DJ Quik Thought Michael Jackson Didn’t Like Him

DJ Quik is a renowned American rapper and record producer. The artist grew up in a musical family and started his career in the late 1980s as a DJ before releasing his own music in 1991. His initial album became a commercial success. As a result, DJ Quik, whose real name is David Marvin Blake, has crossed paths with many of the big stars of the 90s. In a recent episode of All The Smoke, a podcast, Quik reveals that he had multiple encounters with the late music sensation Michael Jackson.

One of the most famous singers of all time, Michael Jackson had a wildly successful career. He had been in the Jackson 5 as a child before moving into his solo career. At the height of his career, everyone was dying to meet and work with the singer. In the 1990s, DJ Quik got to live everyone’s dream, but it didn’t go how he thought it might. While working on a single, Quik was renting out a studio that Michael Jackson frequented. One day, Jackson’s team gave everyone in the studio an odd set of instructions. Everyone was to turn away and face the wall so Michael would not be seen.

DJ Quik Talks Michael Jackson

The first encounter occurred in 1991 while DJ Quik was recording his single “Tonite.” His crew was taking a break when Jackson’s team came through to request that people turn their attention elsewhere. “They didn’t ask us to leave,” Quik states in the podcast. “They just asked us to turn around, and face the wall.” He reiterates how bizarre the whole ordeal was. “It was weird as s***, you know, like police s***.” Of course, while turned around, Quik couldn’t help himself from sneaking a peak at the legendary musician.

But the next time Quik saw Michael, the experience was a lot more chill. Michael had booked Quik’s studio this time, and perhaps the pop star felt more at ease in someone else’s environment. “There was another one where he booked our studio,” the rapper goes on to explain. “I think he was more cool then.” Although at this time, Jackson still did not speak to DJ Quik directly. The experience left Quik thinking that the musician simply did not want to associate with him. To hear more stories regarding celebrity encounters with Michael Jackson, stay tuned.

Diplo Admits To Receiving Oral Sex From A Man: “I’m Not Not Gay”

A celebrity’s sexual orientation interests their fans, and Diplo’s podcast reveal has pop culture talking. The famed producer and DJ’s relationship exploits have been at the center of gossip throughout his lengthy career. Yet, his recent admission has sparked conversations. Diplo hasn’t explicitly spoken about his sexual orientation, but on Emily Ratajkowski’s High Low podcast, the pair jumped into the topic.

Ratajkowski and Diplo directed the conversation to the producer’s preferences. He stated he wasn’t “aroused by men that much,” which piqued the podcast host’s interest. As any interviewer would do, she pressed him a bit, hoping he would expound on his comments. He quickly added, “I’m sure I’ve gotten a blowjob from a guy before.” Ratajkowski questioned if he was sure about that on speculating. It seemed as if Diplo couldn’t actually confirm the encounter.

Diplo Explains His Sexuality

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 05: (FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY) Diplo (R) attends the 65th GRAMMY Awards on February 05, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)

There seem to be more than enough men at Diplo’s disposal, especially “sexy” ones that are easily found on his social media. Although he admits they’re “hot guys,” he added, “I don’t know if that’s gonna be the thing that’s gonna send me over to the gay side totally.” Expectedly, Ratajkowski wanted Diplo to explain further, particularly how he personally identifies himself, if he has any title, at all.

He said his attractions are more about “vibe” than “gender,” which doesn’t come as a surprise considering his past. “I think the best answer I have is I’m not not gay,” he answered. “There are a couple guys,” he then added, “I could date, life partner-wise.”

Everyone’s A “Lil Gay”

Meanwhile, Ratajkowski shared in her November 2022 Harper’s Bazaar feature that she’s bisexual. “I think sexuality is on a sliding scale,” she told the publication. “I don’t really believe in straight people.” A similar sentiment was shared by Diplo almost 10 years ago on Reddit. The musician said he believed everyone’s a “lil gay,” but wouldn’t go as far as labeling himself or his sexuality. It looks as if he carries similar sentiments to this day. Check out the clip of Diplo and Emily Ratajkowski’s conversation above, as well as the full episode of her podcast.

[via]

Eminem Files Trademark Opposition Against Two “Real Housewives” Over “Relatively Shady” Podcast Name

Eminem filed a trademark opposition against two Real Housewives of Potomac stars for their “Relatively Shady” podcast trademark. Before going on, reports suggest they filed trademark for “Relatively Shady,” but their podcast is found online as “Reasonably Shady.” With that being said, the Detroit rapper already has a similar trademark in “Slim Shady” and filed a motion to block the Housewives‘s trademark. Moreover, Robyn Dixon and Gizelle Bryant host the Reasonably Shady relationship advice podcast, and filed for trademark of that name in February of 2022.

Furthermore, trademark infringement cases typically rest on the likelihood that a consumer would confuse two brands. For example, a small restaurant can’t file a trademark for their “McDonald’s Hot Dogs” because consumers will likely confuse them for the fast-food giant. Within his opposition request, Marshall Mathers states that consumers would be confused by the “Reasonably Shady” name. However, another important aspect in these cases is the similarities between each trademarked product. After all, who would believe that Slim Shady is starting a relationship advice podcast with two Real Housewives of Potomac?

Eminem’s Trademark Case Against The Real Housewives

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 05: Eminem performs onstage during the 37th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at Microsoft Theater on November 05, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/WireImage)

Still, multiple other trademarks exist with the term “Shady” in them. Moreover, trademarks like “Super Shady,” “Stay Shady,” and “Shady Baby” exist in active registration databases. Even with that in mind, trademark confusion isn’t all that the “Lose Yourself” MC hinges on. Also in his request is the claim that the new trademark could dilute Eminem’s existing “Slim Shady.” In this instance, the rapper believes that Dixon and Bryant’s registration hinders the “distinctive quality” of his “Slim Shady” trademark. In addition, the opposition request claimed that “Reasonably Shady” will inevitably remind people of Marshall’s artistry and brand.

Meanwhile, the Reasonably Shady podcast already has over 43,000 followers on Instagram, and the Real Housewives are clearly finding success. Furthermore, they must answer to Eminem’s opposition request by March 26 of this year. If they don’t, their request to trademark their “shady” podcast name may fall on deaf ears. However, if they fight back, it will be up to each party to make their case to the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board. Regardless of what happens, stick around on HNHH for the latest updates on Eminem and this new trademark dispute.

[via]

Ice-T Launches Advice Podcast, “Ice-T’s Daily Game”

Ice-T has a new podcast titled, Ice-T’s Daily Game, in which he gives out life advice every weekday. Speaking about the venture with ET, the veteran rapper explained that the “daily game” takes inspiration from life lessons he’s learned over the years or heard from people he respects. Ice-T launched the show in partnership with iHeartPodcasts.

“Every day I give out something called an ice-cold fact or a daily game,” Ice-T told ET. “And it’s just things that I’ve learned or quotes that I use from my life. A lot of them come from me, a lot of them come from other people I respect. I recorded 200 of them and they’ll come on every day. And hopefully this inspires people and motivates people. I think we all need motivation and we all need some of the keys that some successful people use to win.”

“Ice-T’s Daily Game”

Ice-T will share “game” for five minutes during every episode to help listeners start their days. He says that he wants the show to be something to help fans get up in the morning. “It’s something that you can drink your coffee to and get up in the morning and say, ‘Man, I got to listen to this one today,’ and hopefully it’ll help you,” he added. “I have quotes from Wesley Knight, quotes from philosophers, quotes from different people that I come across, and I explain my experiences with them and then you hear their knowledge.” He adds, “I hope it improves their life. I hope at least one of them says, ‘Man, I needed to hear that.’”

Ice-T’s storied career recently helped him earn a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Walk of Fame will recognize Ice-T at a ceremony on Friday, February 17. “As many times as the cops had me face down on them stars, I was looking very close,” he told ET regarding the honor. “So now to actually be honored is a great honor. Most of my friends are more excited about it than I was, but they had to make it clear, ‘Man, your kids, this is a legacy thing. You get to be amongst all the greats.’ So I’m very happy.”

[Via]

Jermaine Dupri Explains Why Hip Hop Needs Help

Few people have a Hip Hop history like that of Jermaine Dupri. The So So Def icon helped catapult careers into superstardom, and the megaproducer remains one of the most acclaimed hitmakers in the genre. Dozens of Dupri classics are staples on playlists regardless of how long ago the songs were released, so when he gives a hot take about Hip Hop, people pay attention.

Dupri was the most recent guest on the I Am Athlete podcast, and during the chat, he explained why he believes Hip Hop needs help. He recognized that Hip Hop is the NO. 1 genre but said, “We still in trouble because the Hip Hop that’s at the top is very, very limited.” He added, “The subject matter ain’t wide. It’s very, very narrow-minded.”

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – NOVEMBER 14: Jermaine Dupri performs at halftime during the Milwaukee Bucks v Atlanta Hawks game at State Farm Arena on November 14, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)
Read More: Jermaine Dupri Answers Critics Who Say He’s Not Relevant

Dupri added, “If it’s gonna be across the board, it’s gotta open us up.” The producer was asked how can this be fixed. Unfortunately, he didn’t have a solution for what he believes ails Rap music. It isn’t a sentiment that is far-fetched; often, “old heads” are criticized for sharing similar opinions about the current state of the genre. The newer artists seemingly clap back, expressing that all eras of Hip Hop face pushback from previous generations.

Responses to Dupri’s comments have been a mixed bag. Some agreed and complained about the lack of lyricists in this current generation. Others thought Dupri was being too harsh on new artists. Elsewhere during the conversation, he answered critics who accused him of no longer being relevant in today’s music landscape.

Read More: Jermaine Dupri Claims Credit For NYC Radio Playing Southern Hip-Hop

Within the last few years alone, Dupri has earned himself several accolades. He was instrumental in developing Ari Lennox’s “Pressure” hit, and he worked alongside dvsn, as well. Now, fans are waiting for him to face off against a worthy opponent on Verzuz. If you ask Dupri, his choice is Diddy as Bad Boy could potentially meet So So Def in an epic match-up. Do you agree with Dupri’s take about Hip Hop being in trouble?

Joe Rogan Under Fire For Spreading Antisemitic Trope

Joe Rogan is coming under fire on social media for making a comment about Jewish people being “into money.” Rogan had been defending Minnesota rep. Ilhan Omar for her 2019 tweet criticizing Israel’s supporters in the U.S. She tweeted, “It’s all about the Benjamins baby,” referencing the funding politicians receive from organizations such as AIPAC. The tweet has resurfaced in recent days after Republicans voted to remove her from her post on the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Rogan addressed the story on a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience while speaking with former MSNBC contributor Krystal Ball. The conversation moved on to Ilhan Omar while the two were discussing Rep. Adam Schiff. “It’s crazy,” said Rogan. “Did you see him sitting next to Ilhan Omar, where she’s apologizing for talking about it’s all about the Benjamins? Which is just about money. She’s talking about money. That’s not an antisemitic comment, I don’t think that is. Benjamins are money.” He continued, “The idea that Jewish people are not into money is ridiculous. That’s like saying Italians aren’t into pizza. It’s fucking stupid.”

Joe Rogan’s Comments

The comments were met with plenty of backlash from users on Twitter. ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt said that the comedian’s comments are “No joke.” He explained: “Disturbing that at a time of rising anti-Jewish violence, when growing numbers of Americans believe in antisemitic conspiracy theories, @joerogan would use his immense platform to spew antisemitic tropes about Jews and money.” In a follow-up, he added: “For centuries, people have used these longstanding tropes to spread vicious lies about the Jewish people. ‘Comedian’ or not, Rogan’s comments are no joke.”

Ian Karmel, a writer for The Late, Late Show with James Corden, jokingly compared Rogan to Kyrie Irving. “Joe Rogan to the Mavericks confirmed,” he wrote, referencing The Nets’ recent blockbuster trade with the Mavericks. Irving has also been criticized for making antisemitic comments in the past. Similar to Irving, this is far from the first controversy Joe Rogan has weathered. In the past, he’s spread vaccine misinformation, said the N-word, and more. Check out the responses to Rogan’s latest drama on Twitter below.

Twitter Reacts

[Via]