Nicki Minaj’s unfortunate (and recently undeserved, in one case) legal troubles has now extended into the musical realm. Moreover, according to TMZ, a producer sued the rap star for allegedly stealing the beat for a track off of 2014’s The Pinkprint, “I Lied.” Not only that, but sources reportedly close to Nicki stated that she had no hand in the production, which means that Mike Will Made It must address the claims. Of course, he also got a mention on producer Julius Johnson’s lawsuit against the New York native. Both tracks are linked down below if you’re curious enough to determine their similarities for yourself.
Furthermore, Johnson’s story is that he made the beat “onmysleeve” and released it in September of 2011, three years before Nicki Minaj’s “I Lied” came out. In addition, TMZ‘s report using alleged legal documents states more details as to Johnson’s case. For example, he claimed he had the instrumental on a hard drive while attending the Art Institute of Atlanta. Apparently, someone stole the artist’s drive without his permission during a studio session two years later in 2013. It seems like this is the incident that convinced Johnson that this was a steal and not mere coincidence.
Regardless, one of Johnson’s most crucial claims is that associates of Nicki Minaj and Mike Will Made It were at the Institute around the time someone stole the hard drive. However, one question readers may have is why this issue came up almost ten years after Minaj released “I Lied.” Johnson stated that he only came around to listening to it in 2022, and drew the connection right then and there. Now, the producer wants the profits that the other parties made from the song and is reportedly seeking a court order to either force them to take it down or give him credit and royalties for his contributions. In TMZ‘s report, they mention that a representative for the 40-year-old MC had no comment.
Meanwhile, this lawsuit is still in very early stages, so it’s hard to say how it will pan out. In other news, fans hope that Young Thug and Minaj’s back-and-forth online will result in a new collaboration soon. Given her upcoming album, we’re sure to hear more of her music soon. Still, hopefully this dispute concerning her previous material sees a swift and amicable resolution if the allegations are true. For more news and the latest updates on Nicki Minaj, keep checking in with HNHH.
Drake’s hit song “Money in the Grave” has not only been a chart-topper but also a costly endeavor. At least, it was when it came to how much he paid the producer of the song. Lil CC, the producer behind the beat, revealed during an interview with Shirley’s Temple that Drake paid her a whopping $20,000 for her work on the track. This generous investment from the rapper not only affirmed Lil CC’s talent but also launched her career to new heights.
Lil CC expressed her gratitude for Drake’s support. She says that the rapper’s belief in her and his support pushed her to work even harder. Additionally, she mentioned being particularly thrilled about the Rick Ross feature on the song. She says that she is a big fan of his music, as well. This collaboration with Drake and Rick Ross opened doors for her to work with with other notable artists, including Lil Wayne. You can check out the interview with Lil CC below.
“Money in the Grave” was initially released in 2019. It was part of a two-pack of songs that Drake dropped to celebrate the Toronto Raptors winning the NBA Championship. “Money in the Grave” was the second track, following “Omertá.” The song carries a more aggressive tone and includes lyrics about Drake’s success. He references leaving competitors in the dust and even contemplates getting a tattoo that reads “realest n*gga” on his face.
In August 2019, Drake and Rick Ross released the official music video for the track. The visuals showcase Drake dancing in an oil field turned dig site. It includes cameo appearances by Rick Ross. There is also footage of Drake celebrating with the Toronto Raptors’ NBA Finals championship trophy during a live concert. Drake promoted the music video with a casual Instagram post, directing his followers to check it out. The video’s release further solidified the success and popularity of “Money in the Grave.” It appears it was not only a hit for the rapper but also a launching point for Lil CC’s career. Stay tuned to HNHH for the latest updates on all things hip-hop.
Westside Gunn found himself engaged in a Twitter dispute with a producer over a payment disagreement. The exchange started with a tweet from Ewonee, a beatmaker. He inquired about where to send his invoice for a song by Griselda artist Estee Nack. The beatmaker’s tweet came in response to a post claiming that Westside Gunn pays his producers well. Gunn took offense to Ewonee’s tweet. The rapper accused him of burning bridges by publicly calling him out and saying that Estee Nack had given the impression that the beat had been cleared.
Furthermore, Gunn expressed his disappointment. He went on to highlight his support for artists and emphasize the importance of communication. He mentioned his preference for working only with his team. This is due to what he perceived as a lack of vision and disrespect from others. Gunn concluded by stating that he would no longer accept beats unless he personally reached out to the producers. That is an unfortunate development for other beatmakers who may have wished to work with Westside Gunn.
Unfortunately for both Westside Gunn and Ewonee, that was not the end of the discussion. Ewonee responded to Gunn’s tweet. He stated that he was unaware his beat was used on Estee Nack’s album and that he didn’t receive credit. Gunn then assured him that he would remove the song from the project. He further advised him to privately address any future complaints about his work. In a separate tweet, Ewonee emphasized the need to recognize those who speak up and revealed that this was not the first time he had experienced issues regarding credit.
Gunn later reflected on the situation, expressing his frustration at always being portrayed as the “bad guy” despite his efforts to take care of his family, spread art and love, and positively influence others. He saw the backlash as a consequence of his success and acknowledged reaching a new level in his career, expressing gratitude to God. The Twitter spat highlighted a payment dispute between Westside Gunn and a producer, but it is hardly an isolated incident. Many producers complain of the same treatment. However, it does bring up the question of professionalism. What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!
People often forget about Jazze Pha when it comes to the greatest producers. At one point, he was the arguably hottest producer in the South. Through the 2000s, Jazze’s signature style of production fueled many of the biggest hits from that era. The Memphis producer created a few memorable moments in Hip Hop that makes his catalog stand out from all the other producers.
The South was on its way to taking the Hip Hop crown as rappers like T.I. popularized Trap Music. Meanwhile, Ludacris’s animated delivery felt like a breath of fresh air. Jazze Pha was able to create hits with both artists on more than one occasion. However, his reach extended beyond Atlanta and throughout the South, which was made evident by his first production deal with Cash Money Records.
With the emergence of talent in Memphis, what would a Jazze Pha production sound like in 2023? Hopefully, we’ll find out soon. With nearly 30 years of hits under his belt, his catalog speaks volumes. Let’s take a look at some of Jazze Pha’s hits.
7. “Sick Of Being Lonely”- Field Mob
“Sick of Being Lonely” is one of the songs Field Mob is known for. The record explores both Smoke and Shawn Jay’s relationship with the same women. In the first verse, Shawn Jay wonders if his woman is cheating because she isn’t contacting him like any other night. In Smoke’s verse, he is letting the woman know her man’s a fool for not staying at home with her. It looks like the woman isn’t picking up because she might be with Smoke.
Jazze Pha helped the Georgia duo achieve their first song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #18 on the Hot 100. Jazze’s slow-burning production delivers a sultry feel but the drums uplift the mood. The Memphis producer’s presence is felt all across “Sick of Being Lonely,” especially with his ad-libs at the end.
6. “Let’s Get Down”- Bow Wow ft. Birdman
Jermaine Dupri was, at one point, Bow Wow’s go-to-producer but as he got older, things changed. On his third album, Unleashed, he teamed up with Jazze Pha on “Let’s Get Down” ft. Birdman as his hype man. “Let’s Get Down” landed at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 and stayed on the charts for four months. Jazze Pha helped Shad Moss’ transformation from the child-friendly Lil Bow Wow to just Bow Wow. Jazze Pha’s contributions to Unleashed helped give Bow Wow a sound that appealed well beyond the teenage demographic. Surely, Jazze Pha deserves credit for shifting the So So Def’s artist career.
5. “Let’s Get Away”- T.I. ft. Jazze Pha
On “Let’s Get Away,” Jazze Pha’s talents extend from the board to the booth. He sings part of the hook on T.I.’s feel-good anthem for the ladies. Jazze Pha’s paradise-like production helped T.I. create an anthem that showcased his versatility beyond being a voice for the trap. The combined success of T.I. and Jazze Pha’s talents were further affirmed when “Let’s Get Away” reached the number 35 spot on the Billboard Hot 100.
“So What” is a relatable song for many people in relationships. In this one, the duo detail their partners’ friends spreading rumors in hopes to ruin their relationship. Jazze Pha makes another Field Mob song that you can bounce to and Ciara’s inclusion elevates it further. “So What” might be Field Mob’s biggest hit, reaching #10 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Jazze Pha takes a verse from the Notorious B.I.G. and turns it into a modern hit. It’s a fun song that serves as a type of celebration or tribute to the late great Christopher Wallace and entered the top 50 on the Billboard Hot 100. Jazze Pha flexed his producer skills by revamping “Nasty Boy” and undoubtedly did justice by turning it into an iconic hit.
Ciara and Missy Elliot had a hit with “1, 2 Step” but that’s also due to Jazze Pha’s production. The producer’s ad-libs bring high energy to the song. While his production undoubtedly shakes up the dancefloor, it’s his ability to bring amazing artists together that made the record a hit. Jazze Pha created a feel-good song that everyone can enjoy while Ciara came up with the signature moves. Just like in the music video, senior citizens, adults, teenagers, and kids can all join in on the “1, 2 Step”.
1. “Area Codes”- Ludacris ft. Nate Dogg
Jazze Pha made the perfect beat for Ludacris and Nate Dogg on “Area Codes.” As the two introduce us to different women in different cities, Jazze Pha lays down smooth and funky production. Ludacris made “Area Codes” for the Rush Hour 2 soundtrack, but it was the lead single off his album, Word of Mouf. The song reached number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Pi’erre Bourne has proven his versatility time and time again. The South Carolina native first hit it big as a producer. In that role, he created several bangers for some of hip-hop’s A-list. His hits include “Magnolia” by Playboi Carti and the bombastic “Gummo” by Tekashi 6ix9ine. Additionally, Bourne has produced songs for such industry heavyweights as Drake and 21 Savage. However, after solidifying himself as a producer, Bourne decided to pick up a mic himself. Subsequently, as a rapper, Bourne has continued showing off his talent in all aspects of the music game.
Furthermore, as a result of his undeniable talent, Bourne has cultivated quite a loyal following. Now, his fans will now have a new project to smile about. Bourne took to Instagram last Friday to announce his new ep. The multitalented hitmaker didn’t disclose much in the way of details. However, he did announce that the project will be tilted Grails and that the project will be released this Friday. These are exciting times for Bourne. He is currently on tour He released his much anticipated single, “Honeyberry 2,” in March. The song is a sequel to his 2017 hit, “Honeyberry.”
However, that’s not the only highly anticipated song Bourne has released this year. “IG,” in February. Fans had been clamoring for the song’s release after it was featured in several of Bourne’s Instagram videos. Elsewhere, Bourne has been enjoying the success of his latest album, Good Movie. The album was released last September to positive reviews from fans. Additionally, Bourne has enjoyed success on the road. He announced a worldwide Good Movie tour last year. Subsequently, the producer-turned-rapper has performed across the U.S. and Canada as well as multiple cities in Europe.
Although some fans still consider Bourne a producer first, his talent as a rapper is hard to ignore. Bourne follows in the first steps of the likes of Timbaland, Dr. Dre and Pharrell, who went from big-name producers to artists. It will be exciting to see if Bourne can maintain his success and join the ranks of those legends as his career progresses.
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:
A simple Twitter Q&A with one of the funniest and most down-to-earth producers in the game led to some wild speculation. While answering fan questions on the social media platform, The Alchemist hinted at a potential Travis Scott collab. However, if you look at the actual question and response, it’s one interpretation of many. Moreover, a fan asked the legendary producer if he’s produced music for Travis Scott yet. When Al replied with a zipped-up mouth emoji, fans took it to mean that there’s some heat on the way. For what it’s worth, they’ve been pictured together, but it doesn’t look like they’ve released anything official together yet.
Of course, the California beatsmith didn’t answer yes or no, so any possible collaborations are still secret. Also, La Flame would be just another name on Al’s incredibly varied, dense, and impressive list of collaborators. As for the future, he’s gearing up for his next album The Great Escape, a collaboration with Larry June due March 31. Its single “60 Days” actually sees ALC drop some bars of his own, bringing his talents to the mic.
In fact, it’s a practice he repeated on his Hit-Boy collab “Slipping Into Darkness,” on which they rap over each other’s instrumentals. Even though it’s not the first time he’s done this sort of thing, hearing the Alfredo producer on the mic is always a treat. Given his insane production chops and penchant for woozy sampling and cavernous production, he’d actually fit well with Travis. In addition, it helps that the Houston superstar is one of the more creative artistic directors among his colleagues. As such, any collab of his will likely involve a lot of vision, creativity, and an intoxicating atmosphere for fans.
Meanwhile, the “STARGAZING” MC and producer might be dropping his highly anticipated album UTOPIA this summer. Moreover, Kevin Durant recently revealed that Travis told him the album is “f***ing insane.” Epic Records CEO Sylvia Rhone also recently stated that UTOPIA will likely drop in June of this year. With that anticipation in mind, the thought of a beat from these two sonic wizards has fans foaming at the mouth. Stick around on HNHH to see if it happens, and for the latest on Travis Scott and The Alchemist.
OG Parker just dropped a new single with Ty Dolla $ign and Muni Long, the sultry R&B cut “Still Work.” Moreover, the track is built on hazy and pretty indistinct vocal samples that form a cloudy atmosphere. Unsurprisingly, both R&B singers give impressive vocal performances and captivating melody switch-ups. Furthermore, this track follows singles like “No Fuss” and “Rain Down” ahead of Parker’s next project, Moments. Also, the track’s music video employs a nostalgic vibe with a love story to represent the song’s longing themes. Overall, it’s a fitting track for the Valentine’s Day season and one that reaffirms finding love after a long time. Of course, what better way to represent that feeling with two of the most dominant current stars in soul?
PACIFIC PALISADES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 26: Multi-platinum producer OG Parker poses for portrait during his celebrity brunch event on June 26, 2021 in Pacific Palisades, California. (Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images)
However, OG’s production still hits pretty heavy, with a sharp trap beat with deep kicks and crisp snares. Even with the tracks more sentimental themes, you can let that hang in the background and focus on its soothing energy. Meanwhile, you can let that take a backseat to each singer’s lyrics of finding love again after rocky patches. “And the walls feel like they closin’ in,” Ty sings on the first verse. “It was good but your girls they lead a life of sin / Ayy, if you’re hearin’ this song / Girl, don’t take too long.”
Still, what did you think of OG Parker’s latest track, “Still Work” featuring Ty Dolla $ign and Muni Long? However you feel, let us know in the comments and check out the single’s music video and standout lines below. Also, if you haven’t heard the song yet, you can find it on your preferred streaming service. As always, log back into HNHH for the latest great music releases in R&B and beyond.
Quotable Lyrics I used to wonder if you thought about me Lurkin’ your Instagram, saw you was through and good without me Why is it always happen like this? Soon as I get over it, you pop back, wanna reminisce
(@pierrebourne)
