Almost a month ago, Rich Homie Quan’s father, Corey Lamar, did an interview with AintYouMalcom. During their conversation, the rapper’s dad went onto to reveal that his son was close to releasing a new album. In fact, it was all done prior to his untimely death on September 5. “Quan has probably 2000 unreleased songs. He has a catalog… He has a ton of music that the fans deserve to hear,” Lamar said. Well, 35 of the “200” are out today as the estate of Rich Homie Quan has released Forever Goin In.
Some of those 35 tracks were already out, such as “Ahi’chi” featuring 2 Chainz, and “Song Cry”, which is surprisingly not on the LP. On the surface, a lot of people may not check this out due to its sheer length. But there is a sentimental reason for there being 35 tracks. RHQ’s estate shared the project’s cover on his IG with the caption, “34 listed songs ironically that’s the age I… bonus 1 extra, because tomorrow will forever be a celebration!” It sure is a celebration and we are happy that his legacy is continuing to live on.
Foolio’s first posthumous album, Demi God, has hit streaming services three months after his death at the age of 26. The project features a total of 17 tracks, three of which feature collaborations with Trayboy, Tay Stackzz, and Project Youngin. It marks his second full-length album of 2024, having shared Resurrection a few months prior to his death.
When the project popped up on Foolio’s Instagram page, fans showed plenty of love for it in the comments section. “After listening to this album yes I listened to the Whole album there’s a lot of substance and he was definitely ready to leave this wicked world. RIP foolio,” one top response reads. Another asks for further promotion of the album: “Y’all need to do the promotion more professional bruh.”
Foolio was celebrating his 26th birthday in Tampa, Florida in June when an Airbnb host kicked him out for exceeding occupancy limits. After moving to the nearby parking lot of a Holiday Inn in Tampa, Florida, several gunmen ambushed him. Police later arrested the alleged group of five, consisting of Alicia Andrews, 21, Isaiah Chance Jr., 21, Sean Gathright, 18, and Rashad Murphy, 30. They are still looking for a sixth suspect in Davion Murphy, 27. Last week, Fox13 Tampa Bay reported that the state has confirmed it is considering the death penalty in the case. “A final decision has not been made,” Assistant State Attorney Michelle Doherty said. “It is going to be reviewed within the next two weeks.” The defendants will appear in court again, next month.
Foolio’s “Demi God” Is Here
Prior to Foolio’s death, he did an interview with No Jumper in which he remarked, “I ain’t going nowhere. I’m a demigod. You can’t get me.” Check out Demi God in full above. Be on the lookout for further updates on Foolio on HotNewHipHop.
On this day in Hip Hop history, The Source Magazine celebrates the 16th anniversary of the late greatJ Dilla’s first posthumous album The Shining. This relic of the culture is one of Hip Hop’s more cherished albums. In its “unfinished” glory, The Shining serves as the first LP that Jay Dee spits on since his debut Welcome 2 Detroit in 2001.
As J. Dilla’s time on this Earth was coming to a close, he was persistently working on what would become his final masterpiece. Unable to finish on his own, Dilla called upon fellow Detroit artist Karriem Riggins to put the final touches on the project for him. With Riggins acting as if inside Dilla’s head, this style of completion brought about an interestingly unique sound for the album. Although some may call it “disjointed”, the warm and unpolished mastering of this album give it the nostalgic quality of a Golden Age LP.
With features from Common, D’Angelo, and Black Thought this album is a staple of Hip Hop soul. Dilla’s trademark smooth cut production beefed up with live instrumentation created a sound that showed a matured J. Dilla more refined than before. Short and to the point, like the majority of his work, this project is project was the perfect remedy to aid the loss of one of the most loved and respected figures in Hip Hop.
Commercially, the album was met with success as well as critical acclaim. Despite being put out by the independent Barely Breaking Even Records, The Shining peaked at #103 on the Billboard 200 chart and #35 on the Top R&B/Hip Hop chart. Although sales may have not been on par with the hit albums of the time, Dilla’s work still received a momentous amount of praise and admiration on his phantom album.
Melodic Dallas, Texas rapper MO3 was able to effortlessly mix street anthems with a smooth voice to give fans a one-of-a-kind listening experience. However, his life was sadly cut short almost four years ago, after being gunned down in broad daylight. Since his death on November 11, MO3’s estate has made it their mission to give his die-hard supporters a full look behind the curtain as to what he was working on. Today is another one of those days, as the latest MO3 project to land on streaming is now Legend.
This title obviously is looking to show why the multi-hyphenate was so gifted. So, throughout this tightly packed, 14-song project, you are getting a lot of rapping/singing cuts. Perhaps another reason why this tape is out now is because it would have been MO3’s birthday yesterday (May 31), which is when Legend was released. Overall, these songs clearly show that he had plenty of fire tracks waiting to hit platforms.
Leading up to this album, four singles were put out ahead of time. In fact, the first one dropped back in 2022, “They Don’t Know” with Tory Lanez. It would not be until May of 2024 that we would get the next promotional track, which was “Tidal Wave”. Then, in the subsequent two and a half weeks, “Blood Money”, and “AR”, featuring That Mexican OT and BigXthaPlug, would follow. Speaking of features, others include Finesse2Tymes, Fredo Bang, Money Man, Ralo, Tye Harris, and NoCap.
What are your thoughts on Legend by MO3? Who had the strongest guest verse? What song did MO3 bring his best stuff? Is this the strongest posthumous release so far, why or why not? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding MO3. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the music world.
Legend Tracklist:
Came Up with Tye Harris
AR with That Mexican OT (feat. BigXthaPlug)
Tidal Wave
Blood Money with Finesse2Tymes
Time & Time Again with Money Man (feat. Fredo Bang)
The loss of Texas multi-hyphenate MO3 is still being felt in the hip-hop community to this day. The then 28-year-old was tragically gunned down on a Dallas freeway in broad daylight on November 11, 2020. The man who committed the unforgiving homicidal act was sentenced to nearly nine years in federal prison in the same month, nearly two years later. While justice will never truly be served, fans of MO3 have still been able to listen some of his work that was never published like “AR”.
This is the second single that his estate has put forth this year, and it is also the third and final offering from an upcoming project. MO3’s second posthumous album, Legend, will be out this Friday, May 31. According to Genius, his next body of work will be 14 tracks and will have a total of three features. All of which will be Southern rappers and the names include Finesse2Tymes, BigXthaPlug, and That Mexican OT.
Listen To “AR” By MO3, BigXthaPlug, & That Mexican OT
In fact, the latter of the two are on “AR”. All three rappers combine to bring a cohesive and passionate track, as BigX and Mexican deliver some extended verses. MO3 handles the chorus and delivers a sticky and melodic tune. Each artist talks about their rough upbringings and street violence over a lowkey and crisp beat.
What are your thoughts on “AR” by MO3, That Mexican OT, and BigXthaPlug? Is this one of his best post-humous releases yet, why or why not? Does this get you excited for Legend? What is your favorite aspect of it? Who had the strongest performance and why? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding MO3, That Mexican OT, and BigXthaPlug. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the music world.
Quotable Lyrics:
Thugged alone in that cell, ain’t need no cellys Found my way out the streets, put my life on these beats That s*** made me a beast, now I’m up seven Figures large and they mad ’cause they can’t catch it Thank the Lord everyday ’cause He stay blessin’ But they try me, I’m sinnin’, ain’t no testin’
Katt Williams says that he’s working on a posthumous 2Pac album that will feature Cardi B. He discussed the plan while speaking with Suge Knight on the Death Row Records founder’s podcast, Collect Call, Tuesday. During the conversation, Suge described Cardi as the “female version of 2Pac.”
“What you got going on with some of those unreleases with ‘Pac, sh*t, you got me excited. The different people you said you’re gonna put on there. I don’t wanna let the cat out the bag but it’s unbelievable,” Suge said, as caught by HipHopDX. Williams revealed that there’s a total of eight features on the project that encompass “only the best of the best.” Suge then asked: “I heard Cardi B on the project with you, is that true?” to which Williams replied: “Absolutely.”
From left, American record executive Suge Knight (born Marion Knight Jr), Rap musician Tupac Shakur (1971 – 1996), and rapper and producer Dr Dre (born Andre Young) on the set of Shakur’s ‘California Love’ music video, El Mirage, California, October 13, 1995. (Photo by Nitro/Getty Images)
Knight then added: “I always say she’s the female version of 2Pac,” to which Williams replied: “She’s going to mix with him nicely. Everybody that’s on it is a piece of him, in a way.” From there, Knight criticized the 2004 posthumous 2Pac album, Loyal to the Game, saying that it’s the only 2Pac album that “flopped.” Check out Suge Knight’s full conversation with Katt Williams below.
Suge Knight & Katt Williams Discuss 2Pac
Elsewhere in the interview, Knight and Williams discussed the reputation of Jada Pinkett Smith. “That’s the homegirl, she ain’t as crazy as people think she is. She made Will [Smith],” Knight said at one point. Williams added: “And [she] saved that n***a’s life in the industry. Queen Beard, the one.” Be on the lookout for further updates on Katt Williams as well as more details on 2Pac’s posthumous album on HotNewHipHop.
On this day in Hip Hop history, the late Notorious B.I.G. released his second posthumous album, Born Again. This project was a compilation album featuring old recorded verses over newer beats with guest features. The album had a high reception rate, debuting at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and selling 485,000 albums in the first week. It sold so well that it was certified double platinum a month and seven days after its release.
The album’s critical reception was mixed, to say the least. Many critics were stuck in between whether this album was merely a way for Bad Boy Records to cash in on an opportunity or a tribute album to arguably the best rapper of all time. Rolling Stone wrote that the “album won’t damage his legacy, but Born Again won’t improve that legacy much either.” Late in 2004, the magazine stated that “The posthumous Born Again proved Biggie was still dead, but his place in the MCs Hall of Fame remains untouchable.” Whether or not these reviews ring true to listeners is up for debate, but what is certain is that the star-studded cast of features on this project definitely helped Biggie flex his abilities even from the grave. Features on the project included greats such as Busta Rhymes, Redman, Method Man, Missy Elliott, Ice Cube, and Snoop Dogg and although these are titans of rap, none of them were able to outshine the Notorious B.I.G. For Biggie fans, this project was a gift from the afterlife. It has become a must-have among all diehard fans of the late king of New York. The album made appearances on the top music charts all over the world and has sales that continuously increase due to the successes of Biggie in his life. After this project, Bad Boy released one last posthumous album titled Duets: The Final Chapter in 2005.
Memphis, Tennessee has brought us a lot of exciting voices in rap over the past few years. One of those rising talents includes Big Scarr. If you have not heard his material before, he has that signature deep and intimidating voice. It is very similar to Key Glock and Young Dolph.
Unfortunately, his legacy in the hip-hop genre was short lived. The then 22-year old rapper tragically passed away from a drug overdose. TMZ Hip Hop reported this, as well as a lot of other publications on December 23 of last year. It was obviously shocking news. As many estates have for other rappers, they are still getting some music out to help continue the spread of their artistry.
That is the case here for Scarr’s team. In fact, this is the second album from them this year. Gucci Mane’s 1017 Global Music label, which Scarr was a part of was behind this. Guwop announced it on his Instagram yesterday. This latest LP is called Frozone and it might be one of the best put together posthumous releases in recent memory. Clearly, Scarr was at a high level during these recordings. There is tons quality spitting and beat selection. One of the tracks to check out is “Still The Same.” The use of the constant piano keys bring a fast tempo style, which Scarr absolutely shreds. If you are looking for solid trap bangers with a Southern tinge, this is the project for you.
What are your initial thoughts on this brand-new posthumous album from Big Scarr, Frozone? Is this his best project out of The Secret Weapon and Big Grim Reaper: The Return? Which tracks are you enjoying the most so far? Did Scarr have some of the most untapped potential in the game? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Big Scarr. Furthermore, stay with us for all of the best album drops throughout the week.
In a surprising move that has both excited and saddened fans, Gucci Mane recently announced the release of a second posthumous album by the late rapper Big Scarr. Titled Frozone, the album is set to drop on December 1, marking a bittersweet moment for those who followed the rising star’s career. Big Scarr, a standout talent on Gucci Mane’s 1017 imprint, was poised to be the next big thing in the rap scene.
As Gucci Mane restructured his label in recent years, he discovered a wealth of talent across the southern United States. With Big Scarr shining as one of the brightest prospects. Unfortunately, tragedy struck just before Christmas when Big Scarr passed away. Leaving fans in mourning for a young artist with the potential to make a significant impact. Gucci Mane, known for his keen eye for talent, had positioned Big Scarr as a star pupil within the 1017 roster.
The rapper’s untimely death not only shocked the music community but also sparked a wave of criticism online. Figures like Joe Budden voiced concerns about artists signing to 1017. He cited the number of musicians associated with the label who have either died or faced legal troubles. Despite the challenges, Gucci Mane remains dedicated to preserving Big Scarr’s legacy through the release of Frozone. The posthumous album follows another project, “The Secret Weapon,” which was released earlier in the year in February.
These releases serve as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life within the rap industry. And the enduring impact that artists like Big Scarr can have, even after their passing. As fans eagerly anticipate the December 1 drop of Frozone, the album stands as both a celebration of Big Scarr’s talent and a somber reflection of his life. Gucci Mane’s commitment to honoring his protégé’s memory through these posthumous releases ensures that Big Scarr’s music will continue to resonate with audiences. Let us know if you’re excited for new music from Big Scarr!
J Dilla, renowned producer and rapper, lived a short life but is remembered forever in the hearts of many Hip Hop fans. Despite his untimely death, he made his mark, and many often take solace in that. His legacy will remain, and his music will live forever, thanks to incredible bodies of work like The Shining. August 22, 2023 marked 17 years since the posthumous album was released to widespread acclaim. The masterfully written and produced album was the first of many J Dilla projects to comfort fans after his passing.
The posthumous release can be quite controversial among music fans. The question of whether an album is a cash grab often arises following the announcement that an incoming release is underway. However, The Shining was widely anticipated before its drop, owing to the fact that J Dilla was almost done with the album. Fellow Detroit native and longtime friend, producer Karriem Riggins helped handle the rest of the production.
J Dilla developed an early interest in music, particularly Hip Hop. He began making beats when he was a teenager and soon became quite proficient at it. He gained a reputation for his unique production style, which featured intricate drum patterns. Throughout his career, J Dilla was highly sought-after due to his irreplicable production style. He collaborated with numerous Hip Hop and R&B artists as a result. Before albums like The Shining were released, he had already etched his name in the genre’s history books.
J Dilla was a founding member of the Hip Hop group, Slum Village, formed in 1996. The group comprised three members: himself, and two of his classmates from high school, Baatin and T3. He played a significant role in shaping their sound, largely due to his peculiar musical ideas, and sharpened production skills. The group dropped two albums together before Dilla left to pursue a solo career in 2001. J Dilla was also a founding member of the musical collective, The Soulquaries, which was formed in the late ‘90s. The collective consisted of experimental Black music artists, as well as pioneers of genres like neo-soul and jazz fusion.
After leaving Slum Village, J Dilla released his debut solo album Welcome 2 Detroit in 2001. It was characterized by his keen ear for finding obscure and soulful samples, and his innovative interpretations of them. Subsequently, the rapper’s sophomore solo studio album, Donuts, was released on his 32nd birthday in February 2006. The album is widely regarded as Dilla’s magnum opus, and a remarkable instrumental Hip Hop album.
Donuts was also his last album released during his lifetime. He passed away three days after the album dropped. Throughout his career, Dilla battled various health issues, including thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and lupus, but he continued to create music despite the challenges. Donuts was almost entirely recorded in Dilla’s hospital room during his extended stay at a medical center in 2005. The rapper sadly passed away, due to complications from the rare blood disorder, and lupus.
The Shining was J Dilla’s first posthumous album, released in August 2006 soon after his passing. The album was completed and released with the help of friends and collaborators. As usual, J Dilla handled the majority of the production on the album himself. Evidently, his signature production style is on display throughout the project. It also vividly showcased his ability to blend various genres seamlessly.
J Dilla’s choices for the album’s guest features also exemplify his virtuosity at melding different styles. The album features a notable lineup of guest artists including Common, D’Angelo, and Busta Rhymes, among others. The Shining also highlighted his lyrical prowess, as he delivered stellar verses on the project.
On the final track, “Won’t Do,” J Dilla sings, raps, and showcases his storytelling abilities. He also continued to deliver emotionally stirring instrumentals. “Love Jones” and “Over the Breaks” are testaments to his attention to detail. Furthermore, the instrumental, “Body Movin’,” with assists from J Rocc and Karriem Riggins, is reminiscent of classic 90’s Hip Hop beats.
Like many of his projects, the album received critical acclaim. The Shining was praised for its innovation, musicality, and themes. Two of the standout features on the album are “Love,” featuring Pharoahe Monch, and “So Far to Go,” featuring Common and D’Angelo. Critics praised the production quality and the emotional depth they convey.
Furthermore, J Dilla used the album to demonstrate his sample-elevating qualities. The Shining featured a wide range of musical samples. He borrowed elements from R&B legends, like The Isley Brothers, Hip Hop icons, such as Run-DMC and Public Enemy, and even dance music champion, Giorgio Moroder. However, J Dilla’s classical music knowledge also surfaced on The Shining, with a sample from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 making an appearance on the album.
J Dilla’s impact on Hip Hop is immeasurable. He is also often regarded as one of the greatest producers in the genre’s history. Importantly, J Dilla is one of the most prolific acts out of the Detroit music scene. The Shining is a poignant and powerful album that serves as a fitting tribute to the late icon. It encapsulates his musical genius, production prowess, and lyrical talent. Consequently, this makes it a significant and enduring piece of work in the lineup of posthumous Hip Hop releases.
bonus 1 extra, because tomorrow will forever be a celebration!” It sure is a celebration and we are happy that his legacy is continuing to live on. 
(@julio_foolio)
