RIAA

Gunna’s “fukumean” Goes Platinum

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One of the biggest rap hits of the year can now officially claim that tile, as the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) recently issued a platinum certification to Gunna’s “fukumean.” Moreover, the song is a standout on his 2023 album a Gift & a Curse, which was his comeback to the rap game after his plea deal in the YSL RICO case. That being said, it’s not like this was the only successful track on the album; far from it, in fact. For example, the project itself recently received a gold certification from the RIAA, marking it as one of the year’s most commercially significant. The cultural significance of it for 2023 can’t be understated, either, as this song and LP represent a lot.

Furthermore, many thought that the College Park MC would fall off after his brief prison stint. Some just didn’t think he had a career after this, while others pointed towards his alleged “snitching” in the case as a prime reason to shun him. Regardless of where you fall on that spectrum, it’s clear that Gunna’s not going anywhere anytime soon. “fukumean” still gets spins like wildfire, and amid a lot of other tracks that address his situation, this one proved he still makes bangers.

Read More: Gunna Flexes New Muscular Look In New Backstage Photos

Gunna’s “fukumean” Certified Platinum By The RIAA

 
 
 
 
 
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However, maybe this phase of Wunna’s career won’t be what truly defines his post-RICO renaissance; it could just be the beginning. For example, an upcoming remix of Victor Thompson’s “This Year” has fans very excited for what he’ll do next. Gunna debuted the Afrobeats remix during his most recent live show in Los Angeles, and fans absolutely love this new direction for him. While he’s very well-known for his woozy, laid-back, and flow-heavy brand of trap, it looks like we’ll be getting more versatile material from him very soon.

Meanwhile, it’s safe to say that “fukumean” will remain relevant in the year’s last few months. We have a lot of big releases to look forward to, but that guitar loop and flute-assisted atmosphere is too infectious to ignore. Let’s just hope that there are more heaters like this in store in the future, regardless of what genre it occupies. On that note, stay posted on HNHH for the latest news and updates on Gunna.

Read More: The 10 Best Moments From Gunna’s “A Gift & A Curse” LA Show

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Gunna’s Album “a Gift & a Curse” Certified Gold

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Many doubted his return, and while that conversation isn’t over, it definitely diminished a lot. Gunna just received a Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for his newest album, 2023’s a Gift & a Curse. Moreover, the album’s now officially sold over 500K album-equivalent units, marking a big milestone for the comeback record. Of course, this is off of the strength of massive hits like “fukumean,” plus thanks to his die-hard fanbase that continued to support him through it all. The College Park MC also just returned to the live performance space, so this is definitely an exciting time for his career.

For those unaware, the aforementioned narrative around his career concerns his “snitching” in the YSL RICO case. This had Gunna laying low for months, and a Gift & a Curse was his big comeback to the hip-hop release sphere. His relationship with other rappers is still up in the air, but with all this commercial success and fan loyalty, that aversion might shift very soon. Still, the 30-year-old also has a lot bigger things to worry about right now, and might be thinking more as a lone wolf within the industry.

Read More: The 10 Best Moments From Gunna’s “A Gift & A Curse” LA Show

Gunna’s a Gift & a Curse Goes Gold

 
 
 
 
 
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That being said, a lot of that bias and backlash diminished after the release of a Gift & a Curse. Maybe the conversation just died down, but various sources (including Gunna himself, Young Thug’s father, and more) shut down beliefs that there was beef as a result of Wunna’s plea deal. It’s not the red flag it once was, and that came as a timely development as he builds skills in other areas. For example, his upcoming remix of Victor Thompson’s Afrobeats hit “This Year” stunned fans at its live debut, with many surprised by his excellent foray into the genre.

Meanwhile, there’s a lot of bars to digest on the Drip or Drown MC’s latest full-length. Now, though, it seems like people just enjoy the music without feeding into the debate. We’ll see what else the year holds for him, and we wouldn’t be surprised if he ends it off even stronger. Come back to HNHH for more news and updates on Gunna.

Read More: Young Thug’s Father “Loves” Gunna, Claims He Hasn’t Hurt Son’s RICO Case

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Recording Industry in the U.S. Achieves Record-Breaking Mid-Year Revenue of $8.4 Billion

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Recording Industry in the U.S. Achieves Record-Breaking Mid-Year Revenue of $8.4 Billion

The Recording Industry Association of America® (RIAA) has announced that the music industry in the United States has achieved significant revenue milestones, revealing data for mid-year 2023 that marks the ninth consecutive year of growth. Total revenues surged by 9.3% at estimated retail value, reaching an unprecedented first-half high of $8.4 billion.

The driving force behind this remarkable growth continues to be paid subscriptions, which accounted for a substantial 78% of streaming revenues. Streaming continues to reign supreme in music consumption, representing 84% of total recorded music revenues in the U.S. and increasing by 10.3% to reach a staggering $7 billion.

RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier says, “this report describes a thriving, growing music ecosystem that continues to reach new heights and shape our culture. And it reflects the creative human genius and hard work of all the artists, songwriters, labels, publishers, and services who make the music happen and meet fans and audiences where they are in today’s forward looking and innovative music community.” 

Notably, paid subscriptions have experienced explosive growth, surpassing 11% in the first half of this year alone, with the number of music subscription users more than doubling over the past five years.

Physical formats have also made a notable resurgence, achieving their highest revenue levels since the first half of 2013, with a 5% increase over 2022, amounting to $882 million. Vinyl records, in particular, maintain their enduring popularity, accounting for an impressive 72% of all physical music sales and generating $632 million in the first half of 2023.

These milestones underscore the music industry’s resilience and adaptability as it continues to evolve and thrive in the digital age. You can read the full report here.

The post Recording Industry in the U.S. Achieves Record-Breaking Mid-Year Revenue of $8.4 Billion first appeared on The Source.

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Joe Budden’s “Pump It Up” Finally Certified Gold, Fans Wonder Why It Took So Long

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There are some readers out there who probably didn’t know that Joe Budden was actually a rapper back in the day. Of course, that’s owed to just how influential, prolific, well-respected, and present his work as a media commentator and content creator has been. However, the New York City native once took over airwaves with his hit 2003 single, “Pump It Up,” which to this day is his most successful release. In fact, many fans expressed their shock at the fact that it was only just recently that the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified the track as gold. That means that it sold 500,000 copies, and fans suspect something’s fishy.

“It took him 20 yrs to go gold?” one fan commented under coverage of Joe Budden’s most recent commercial milestone. “I don’t believe it because I wore that s**t out! Y’all shady af for posting this either way…” another added. In addition, others came through with more analytical reasoning for why this hit song wasn’t more commercially successful before. “Joe Budden dropped in the era of limewire; that song would have went platinum if they could have counted streams or people weren’t downloading illegally,” a fan wrote.

Read More: Joe Budden Challenged To A Boxing Match By Gillie Da Kid

Joe Budden Fans Left Confused By Late Success Of “Pump It Up”

 
 
 
 
 
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However, this isn’t the only problem that the 43-year-old (may) have with the industry. We don’t know whether this even fazes him, but in 2023 in particular, Joe Budden has a bone to pick with the higher-ups at the labels. “Y’all don’t think it’s a little odd,” he begins, “that without Nas and Jesse Collins, without Mass Appeal and Jesse Collins, we don’t get a tribute [to hip-hop’s 50th anniversary]? Y’all are the ones that was supposed to do that,” he remarked on his podcast.

Meanwhile, maybe one day the former Complex host will pick up the mic again to comment on these issues or fix his grievances from the inside. Until then, though, he has a great foundation of media platforms to express himself in. With or without a gold record, it’s undeniable how much he contributed to the culture over the past decade. On that note, stick around on HNHH for the latest news and updates on Joe Budden.

Read More: Joe Budden Comments On Ebro’s Hip-Hop 50 Thoughts

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Snoop Dogg Scores His First Diamond Single, “California Gurls”

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13 years after its release, this West Coast pop anthem just made history for the two artists that released it. Moreover, Snoop Dogg just earned his first-ever Diamond-certified single by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), “California Gurls” with Katy Perry. Not only that, but the singer also reached a huge milestone by becoming the female artist with the most Diamond hits according to the RIAA. For those unaware, a Diamond certification from the association means that the release in question sold at least 10 million equivalent units. As such, it’s clear that this song is still in rotation, whether it’s people feeling nostalgia for it or discovering it for the first time.

Of course, high acclaim and success is nothing new for Tha Doggfather. While this specific instance is an example of commercial success, the Long Beach MC has garnered loads of respect. For example, he recently revealed that James Brown told him he was the hardest-working artist in the industry. Furthermore, Snoop Dogg transcended the hip-hop genre when it came to his star power, something that his many partnerships, pop crossovers, and more endeavors continue to prove.

Read More: Snoop Dogg Pulls Out Of Songwriters Hall Of Fame Ceremony, Cites “Personal Reasons”

“California Gurls,” Snoop Dogg’s First Diamond Song

“California Gurls” was the first single for Katy Perry’s third album, 2010’s Teenage Dream. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 charts and remained at No. 1 for six consecutive weeks. However, interestingly enough, the Snoop Dogg collab idea came from another successful rap crossover hit. According to the “Electric” hitmaker, she was inspired by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys’ fellow city-honoring hit, “Empire State Of Mind.” Still, the reasons behind that inspiration were as competitive as they were admiring.

“When I came up with the idea of ‘California Gurls,’ it was because I was a little bit jealous of all the love that was given to the East Coast,” she revealed to MTV in 2010. “I thought for sure Tupac was rolling in his grave, and the Beach Boys, Brian Wilson was totally upset.” Furthermore, she said it was “perfect timing” for a Cali hit. Wwho better to tap than one of the kings of West Coast hip-hop? For more news and the latest updates on Snoop Dogg, log back into HNHH.

Read More: Snoop Dogg Reflects On Working With Pharrell On “Drop It Like It’s Hot”

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Jay-Z Has Received His First-Ever Diamond Song Certification From The RIAA Thanks To A Kanye West Collab

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It’s hard to believe for a guy who spent the first decade of his career making a diamond shape with his hands, but Jay-Z has just received his first-ever Diamond single certification from the RIAA. On Monday, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) announced the 2011 single “N****s In Paris” from Jay-Z and Kanye West‘s collaborative album Watch The Throne had passed 10 million units sold. The achievement marks Kanye’s second diamond certification after the 2007 Graduation lead single “Stronger” crossed the threshold in October 2021.

Hit-Boy, who produced the record, noted the accomplishment on Twitter, drawing a parallel with his groundbreaking work with former Jay-Z rival Nas. “it’s a real blessing to be apart of the song that became jay-z first diamond record and producing the album that won Nas his first grammy,” he wrote. “What a life.” Mike Dean, who also contributed to the track, celebrated receiving his fourth Diamond award.

“Paris” was a record-breaking hit in other respects, as well, becoming known for the number of times the duo would perform encores of the song while on tour. They maxed out at 12 times in — naturally — Paris on June 18, 2012.

Just for the fun of it, you can listen to “N****s In Paris” above.

Rihanna Surpasses Eminem As Artist With The Second-Most Certified Singles

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Given that these two artists’ collaborations resulted in smash hits, it’s no surprise that they share a lot of similar accolades. Moreover, Rihanna just surpassed Eminem as the artist with the second-most certified singles by the Recording Industry Association of America. Even though it’s been a long time since her last album, RiRi keeps besting herself with milestone after milestone. Most recently, she earned her first diamond-certified record with her Calvin Harris collab “We Found Love,” in addition to many other platinum hits. If anything, it just goes to show that her influence can’t be erased by time.

Furthermore, Rihanna has 166.5 million certified units according to the association, inching ahead of Eminem. On the other hand, the Detroit rap legend boasts 166 million certified units, whose numbers are similarly incredible no matter what. But you must be wondering: if they’re number two and three on that list, who’s number one? Well, it’s none other than Drake, who the Barbadian singer has also collaborated with often. The Canadian superstar has 184 million certified units, and much like his fellow top three artists, he built that across a long and illustrious career.

Read More: Rihanna Looks Oh-So-New York In A Mesh Bra Top, Baggy Jeans, And Timbs During Late Night Date With A$AP Rocky

Rihanna Has The Second-Largest Collection Of RIAA-Certified Singles

Of course, it would be downright inaccurate to box Rihanna in to just her musical endeavors, as she’s made incredible strides in film, fashion, and much more. Still, a lot of conversation around the “Lift Me Up” star these days revolves around her growing family with A$AP Rocky. On their son’s first birthday on Saturday (May 13), the New York rapper confirmed the child’s name: RZA Athelston Mayers. It’s not just an homage to the legendary Wu-Tang Clan member, but the little one also shared Rocky’s middle name. The “Same Problems?” MC’s real name, Rakim, also honors a New York hip-hop icon.

Meanwhile, the Super Bowl Halftime Show performer recently celebrated five years of Savage X Fenty. While it was with a photo dump on Instagram, it’s still quite the remarkable achievement to maintain a business presence for so long. What’s more is that there’s only more RiRi on the way, whether in music or in pop culture. On that note, keep checking in with HNHH for the latest news and updates on Rihanna and Eminem.

Read More: Rihanna Magazine Covers: The Best Features

Wizkid Hits New Milestone With The Help Of Drake

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Wizkid is an artist who has seen success on a Global stage. The Nigerian artist has some massive hits, and he is constantly traveling the globe and performing. Overall, it is clear that the artist will be a superstar for years to come. Moreover, his crossover appeal is special as he is constantly being featured on some huge hip-hop hits. For instance, he was on the massive hit “One Dance” by Drake. This song certainly helped blossom Wizkid into the superstar he is now. Although, that is not to say he hasn’t been able to hold his own over the years.

Every single year, it feels as though Wizkid impresses fans by racking up some truly incredible milestones. For instance, just a few days ago, he had two platinum singles. These included “One Dance,” as well as “Essence” with Tems. Now, however, the artist has picked up a third RIAA-certified platinum single with “Come Closer.” Funny enough, this song also features Drake.

Wizkid Continues to Succeed

Wizkid performs as Naomi Campbell, partnered with Qatar Creates, host a couture fashion and art charity show as part of the EMERGE global initiative and under the patronage of Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani at QF Ceremonial Court on October 28, 2022 at Doha, Qatar. (Photo by David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images for EMERGE)

As HipHopDX reports, Wizkid is officially the first African artist to secure three platinum songs. Overall, this is a massive accomplishment. Furthermore, it does a lot for genres like Afrobeat on a global scale. Wizkid has been steadily accumulating an amazing discography, and these accomplishments only further cement his legacy. It just makes it all that much more unique that two of these songs also include another global superstar in Drake.

In the future, it will be very fun to see what else Wizkid comes out with. For now, we are in festival season, and there is no doubt he will continue to give us some amazing tracks and performances. Let us know your favorite Wizkid track, in the comments section below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the music world.

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Tyler, The Creator’s “CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST” Goes Platinum

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Tyler, The Creator’s 2021 album, CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST, has been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. Additionally, it has achieved the unique feat of reaching No. 1 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart in three different years (2021, 2022, and 2023). For its latest chart-topping ascent, the popularity was fueled by the release of a deluxe edition of the album, titled The Estate Sale.

Tyler released the original version of CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST back in June 2021. The album featured collaborations with DJ Drama, 42 Dugg, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Lil Wayne, Lil Uzi Vert, Pharrell Williams, and many more across its 16-song tracklist. The project debuted atop the Billboard 200 while moving 169,000 album-equivalent units.

Tyler, The Creator On Stage At Coachella

INDIO, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 16: Tyler, the Creator performs with Kali Uchis at the Coachella Stage during the 2023 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 16, 2023 in Indio, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Coachella)

As for The Estate Sale, Tyler shared the updated version last month. The new tracks feature appearances from Vince Staples, Madlib, A$AP Rocky, and YG. Further bringing more streams to Tyler’s music, he recently performed at Coachella during Kali Uchis‘ set. The two ran through their collaboration, “See You Again,” off of Tyler’s Flower Boy album.

Last month, Tyler also appeared on the Hulu series RapCaviar Presents, during which he discussed his love for being a rapper. “I’m a rapper. I love that shit. It’s a beautiful thing,” he stated at the time. “We’re good with words. We’re good with rhythm. We know pockets. We hear a collection of sounds and one thing and say, ‘Ahh, I know what could go over this.’ That takes a skill. Hey, we know narrative. Ah, I know what you’re feeling. I know how to put those in words where you can understand yourself better. You got some young kid, like 13, thinking, ‘Oh, I gotta make bravado rap…’ No, you don’t. You could flex about the shit that you truly hold here and make it seem like the most important st. When I’m flexing on these songs, [it’s] just about the shit that I really like.”

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Jay-Z’s “Vol. 2…. Hard Knock Life” Outsells “Watch The Throne” As His Highest Selling Album

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Jay-Z has a catalog that spans back nearly 30 years. From the release of Reasonable Doubt to 4:44, Hov has delivered bodies of work that have served as the soundtracks of our lives. Of course, projects like The Blueprint and The Black Album were deemed instant classics but they aren’t necessarily his highest-sellers. For a long time, his collaborative effort with Kanye West, Watch The Throne, had the highest sales in his catalog but now, but that’s now been overtaken by one of his most underrated projects of all time.

The RIAA has officially updated Jay-Z’s page to name Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life as his largest-selling album of all time. Moving 6M copies to date, the album has officially sold more than Watch The Throne, which is only 5x platinum. It’s an incredible feat that speaks volumes about the timeless music he created. Though Vol. 2 isn’t necessarily the most celebrated album in his catalog, it undoubtedly boasted some of his most iconic hits, from “Money Cash Hoes” ft DMX to “Hard Knock Life” and “N***a What, N***a Who (Originator 99).”

Jay-Z’s “Vol. 2” Is Officially 6x Platinum

Hov’s latest RIAA update comes days after The Blueprint reached a new milestone in its 20+ year history. The album officially finally reached triple platinum status but it took roughly two decades to reach this achievement. The Blueprint previously hit the double platinum mark on May 1st, 2002. However, that was also at a time when you actually needed to buy CDs, rather than subscribe to Spotify or Apple Music. Nonetheless, it’s clear that there are fans, both old and new, revisiting the iconic album. 

Hopefully, the recent certification indicates what’s in store for Jay-Z’s upcoming surprise performance in Paris. The Brooklyn-born star announced that he’ll be performing a celebration concert as part of the Basquiat x Warhol Exhibit by Foundation Louis Vuitton. The intimate setting will certainly allow fans to witness Jay perform his biggest hits but perhaps, that might include a few deep cuts from Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life. The rapper will hit the stage on April 14th, marking his first performance in France’s capital since the On The Run II tour with Beyoncé.