Few artists in the hip-hop game have the experience, extracurriculars, and exceptional insight that Jay-Z boasts. While it’s far from the first time this happened, Benny The Butcher recently reflected on some key game that Hov spit during a link-up. Specifically, it had to do with Benny’s Griselda crew, the importance of brotherhood, and separating contracts from community. During a conversation on the My Expert Opinion podcast with Math Hoffa, the Buffalo MC spoke on when he signed a management deal with Roc Nation back in 2019. It’s clear that he has a lot of admiration for the Brooklyn legend, and a lot of appreciation for his wisdom.
“The thing about Hov, man, he is who he say he is,” Benny The Butcher remarked concerning Jay-Z and his indelible counsel. “He and Snoop, they remind me of each other. We had a bunch of conversations. He told me things that I didn’t want to hear, he told me things that I did want to hear- just all-around game. He was basically just telling me… basically trying to keep Griselda together.
Benny The Butcher Reveals Jay-Z’s Expert Opinion On Podcast
“Not saying that we was leaving, but he knew n***as’ contracts was up,” he continued. “And before that, me and him had a three-hour conversation. He was asking me my plans. He was like, ‘Ok, I’ma bust this move and see what we can do.’ He went back, we all kicked it. It just ain’t go that way… But just because I’m not signed to Griselda- I’m Big Griselda. And I explained that to him and he was like, ‘Man, people gonna interpret it different.’” Considering Jay-Z’s experience with Roc Nation, his perspective certainly means a lot.
Meanwhile, Benny The Butcher expressed a desire to take his relationship with Jay-Z to the next level during The Breakfast Club last year. “I’m dying for it,” he expressed. “My s**t is, I need me a Hov verse and I need that Roc-A-Fella chain. I’m auditioning for that Roc-A-Fella chain. I need my s**t.” With his next album coming soon, hopefully we see this partnership grow into something special on wax. Regardless, stick around on HNHH for the latest on these two incredible MCs and more game from the hip-hop world.
Two years after the release of See You Next Wednesday, XO hitmaker Belly is gearing up for the release of his next studio album, Mumble Rap 2. He unveiled the lead single, “American Nightmare” last month but today, he returned with his second single, “Ambiance.” With production from The ANMLS, Belly comes out swinging from the gate with cheeky shots at Instagram models and bold comparisons to the iconic Bad Boy duo of the Notorious B.I.G. and Puff Daddy.
The Hit-Boy-produced “American Nightmare” boasted a triumphant feeling but “Ambiance” delves deeper into the hazy and hypnotic production choices heard from his earlier work. Although the bravado runs deep throughout the song, Belly doesn’t hide the demons that he’s battled, from mental health to substance abuse struggles. It’s another extraordinary effort that has us absolutely excited for Belly’s upcoming album Mumble Rap 2.
Belly Releases New Single “Ambiance” Ahead Of Next Album
Along with the release of “Ambiance,” Belly also dropped the tracklist for his upcoming album, due out on May 19th. The upcoming effort boasts 11 songs in total with some incredible features attached to it. Belly locked in a posthumous appearance from the great Gil Scott-Heron for “Loyalty Vs. Royalty. Although The Weeknd won’t appear on the album, Belly’s XO labelmate, Nav, will also have a feature on Mumble Rap 2. Additionally, Gucci Mane and Rick Ross will appear on the project on the singles, “De La Hoya” and “Cocaine Spoon,” respectively.
Unfortunately, Mumble Rap 2 is among the final projects Belly will release before hanging up the towel. The Canadian rapper announced that he has three projects in the stash, including MR2. He will embark on a mini-tour after this album before heading on a farewell tour after the following two. Check out Belly’s latest single above and check out the tracklist for Mumble Rap 2 below.
Quotable Lyrics Shanghai collar can’t pop it, cause I’m anti Mankind mama, by standard you should stand by Yang ties, we ain’t on the same side Got it out the mud like a landslide Kept on, selling off the land line Stepped on, still that shit blew up just like a landmine
Alicia Keys is doing her part to help injured teen Ralph Yarl feel seen. The “No One” singer has invited Yarl to her July concert date in Kansas. According to the boy’s attorney Lee Merritt, Keys has said that she would love to meet him at the show, as well. The singer’s offer was extended as part of a huge wave of support for the teen in recent weeks. In addition to Alicia Keys’ offer, TMZ says Roc Nation has even reached out and offered to support in any way they can.
For those unfamiliar, Ralph Yarl is a black 16-year-old who was shot several weeks ago by an elderly white homeowner. The assailant, Andrew Lester, is 86 years old. He is accused of shooting Yarl in the head and arm after the teen rang the man’s doorbell. Ralph went to the wrong address while attempting to pick up his siblings, according to the police and Ralph’s family. The homeowner allegedly shot the teenager through a locked glass door without exchanging words because he believed the teenager was attempting to break in and was “scared to death” by the boy’s size. Luckily for Yarl, this is one instance where there may be a happy outcome. He is on his way to recovery and seems to be fully functioning, despite being shot in the head.
Alicia Keys’ Promotes Activism And Awareness
Alicia Keys performs at the Women’s March on Washington. (Photo by Noam Galai/WireImage)
Alicia Keys is no stranger to activism or giving a platform to the voiceless. She is a supporter of many charities, including foundations fighting against AIDS and promoting awareness of the need for change. It’s no surprise that the famed singer would reach out to Ralph Yarl. Keys’ charity work, while well known, may come as a shock to some. Though she gives to more than 30 charities and speaks out on many issues, she is often in the headlines for her lavish celebrity lifestyle. However, Alicia Keys’ is one celebrity who really puts her money where her mouth is.
In addition to giving to charity, Keys often speaks out through art and other means. She was recently featured on Janelle Monaé’s “Say Her Name,” a 17-minute song bringing awareness to the unlawful and unnecessary murders of black women like Sandra Bland and Breonna Taylor. The song also features the likes of Beyoncé, Tierra Whack, and Chloe Bailey. Thankfully, this instance of unnecessary violence against black youth may lead to both justice and a happy ending for Yarl. Additionally, with people like Alicia Keys and labels like Roc Nation supporting him, Yarl might have an even brighter future ahead than he could have imagined. What do you think of Alicia Keys’ offer? Let us know in the comments!
It’s been several years since A$AP Ferg’s “Plain Jane” was one of the biggest hits on the radio, but as AllHipHop reports, the song is now at the centre of a lawsuit against Jay-Z’s Roc Nation. According to producer Kerry D. Brown, the renowned music label used his copyrighted beats on both that track, and more recently, on GloRilla’s “F.N.F. (Let’s Go)” last year. The Krushial K. Productions managing member claims he previously met with RN’s vice president, Lenny Santiago in Houston in 2015, at which time the former gave the latter samples of his instrumentals in hopes of building a future working relationship.
Their meeting took place at The Hotel Derek’s Dealmakers Conference, and Brown asserts that he never transferred the official rights to his music when sharing the samples. In the following years, the southern-born creative came to realize that two of his instrumentals – “You Don’t Know Nothing About Me” and “AUDIOBOX Instrumentals” – were used without his permission on the aforementioned hits. In his lawsuit, Brown has chiefly named Roc Nation, Santiago, Sony Music Entertainment Digital, LLC and Blac Noize Recordings LLC.
Kerry D. Brown Calls Out Roc Nation Over “Plain Jane” & “F.N.F.”
“Within 21 days after this summons on you (not counting the day you received it — or 60 days if you are the United States or a United States agency, or an officer or employee of the United States described in Fed R. Civ. P. 12 (a)(2) or (3),” documents previously obtained by AllHipHop read. “You must serve on the plaintiff an answer to the attached complaint or a motion under Rule 12 or the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. The answer or motion must be served on the plaintiff or plaintiff’s attorney.”
The producer made it clear that he didn’t receive a Notice of Intent to Use or any paid royalties from any parties involved. With his legal actions, he’s hoping to sue the label and others for copyright infringement, unfair competition, and paid attorney fees. Do you believe Kerry D. Brown’s allegations against Roc Nation? Let us know in the comments, and tap back in later for more hip-hop news updates.
While we all got to know Manhattan-based Jay Z for his illustrious rap career, many of the past ten years have seen him delve into the business world. Much of his 2017 project 4:44 dove into this reality. From referencing expensive paintings to his vast portfolio, he’s pursued a vision to re-write his legacy. Hov wants to move from being seen as solely a rapper to an influential billionaire.
Jay Z’s endless ambition shouldn’t come as a surprise to any of his fans. Many records passed on him back in the mid-’90s, believing he was too old to warrant a contract. He would respond by creating his old record label, Roc-A-Fella Records. There, he would curate his ability to pick out unique talents. Helping propel the careers of Kanye West, Freeway, Beanie Sigel, and more, he’s been wisely investing in other people since the beginning of his career.
Hov’s business ventures have certainly paid off. The multi-creative force first being tagged as a billionaire back in 2019. Joining an elite group of American Black billionaires, he was the first hip-hop artist to join the 10-figure ranks. Growing up in the Brooklyn projects, it’s been a hell of a journey for Shawn Carter. Jay Z stated he had “a million ways to make money” on The Blueprint. He’s since proven this sentiment true. Today, we’re looking at the biggest business ventures from Jay-Z, one of the greatest rappers of all time.
Roc-A-Fella Records
NEW YORK, NY – CIRCA 1998: (L-R) American entrepreneur and record executive Damon Dash and American rapper, songwriter, record executive, entrepreneur, and media proprietor Jay-Z performs during a Def Jam Island Records party circa 1998 in New York, New York. (Photo by Lester Cohen/Getty Images)
This one goes without even needing to be mentioned. Jay Z was snubbed by record companies across New York due to his age (a ridiculous sentiment when looking back). He responded by founding Roc-A-Fella Records along with Damon Dash and Kareem Burke. The label’s first album would be Reasonable Doubt, the breakthrough debut project from Jay. The label would later sign Kanye West, cementing Roc-A-Fella as one of the household names in the music scene.
Roc-A-Fella would halt in 2013, with its final project being the Magna Carta Holy Grail LP. After a falling out with Dash in the late 2000s, the label would gradually deteriorate. However, the overarching reason for the label’s end was multiple members were simply looking elsewhere. However, Jay Z’s first business venture was undeniably his most important. He would leverage its massive success for the rest of his career (both musically and financially).
D’USSE Cognac
CHICAGO, IL – JULY 22: (EXCLUSIVE ACCESS, SPECIAL RATES APPLY) Rapper Jay Z attends the Jay Z and D’USSE Cognac Host The Official Legends of the Summer After Party at Lumen on July 22, 2013 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Brian Ach/Getty Images)
Jay Z officially partnered with Bacardi to release D’USSE Cognac back in 2012. Over the past decade, it’s become one of the largest-selling spirits in history. A brandy produced in France, the brand was created with a vision to offer something different to American consumers. Jay Z has spearheaded the brand’s creative direction, contributing to the products’ disruption of the spirits industry.
However, Jay’s partnership with Bacardi has recently been the source of controversy. After expressing his desire to sell his 50 percent stake in the company last year, Bacardi offered him $500m. The situation would morph into an ugly legal battle, as Jay Z claimed his stake should be worth around $1.5 billion. As of February, the two parties came to an agreement. Jay would make $750 million in the deal while retaining a significant ownership stake in the company.
Rocawear
Jay-Z during Benefit Concert for Team Roc at the Apollo Theatre at Apollo Theatre in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by KMazur/WireImage)
Rocawear, a clothing line, was released as a subset of Roc-A-Fella Records. At its peak, the initiative would generate annual sales that superseded $700 million. While Jay Z would eventually sell his ownership rights for an estimated $200 million, he would continue to oversee marketing and product development. The company would later partner with Pharell Williams’ Billionaire Boys Club clothing label in 2011, re-invigorating the company’s value and name recognition. Rocawear continues to sell clothing that fits into the aesthetic of downtown New York, from oversized cargo pants to casual glamour that fits the stylistic trends of Manhattan.
40/40 Club
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 28: Jay-Z attends Jay-Z’s 40/40 Club 18th Anniversary celebration at 40/40 Club on August 28, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
A pristine sports bar chain based in New York City, Jay Z co-founded the 40/40 Club with business partner Juan Perez in 2003. Adorned with luxurious decor and iconic sports memorabilia, the spot is also known for hosting private music events where Lil Uzi Vert and (of course) Jay Z have performed. Jay initially had worldwide aspirations for the sports bar, wanting to build locations in Tokyo and Singapore in the early 2000s. The plans never materialized, and the 40/40 Club exclusively exists in New York. However, the initiative is another example of Jay Z looking to expand his presence beyond music.
Roc Nation
LOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 09: Diddy,Jay-Z and Usher attend 2019 Roc Nation THE BRUNCH on February 9, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Roc Nation )
Jay Z and Jay Brown founded Roc Nation, a multi-personified entertainment company. Founded in 2008, the company contains various sub-companies ranging from a recording label to concert production. The company is home to artists such as Future, Rihanna, J Cole, and Big Sean. Roc Nation is likely his most successful business venture to date, as the company transcends a variety of creative and athletic lanes. The company’s current valuation is around $140 million.
By 2013, Roc Nation had founded Roc Nation Sports, home to names such as Kevin Durant and Victor Cruz. Jay Z would have to give up his $4.5 million stake in the Brooklyn Nets to begin the sports agency, as there would be an illegal conflict of interest.
Tidal
NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 30: Usher, Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Madonna, Dead Mouse, Kanye West, Jay Z, Jason Aldean, Jack White, Daft Punk, Beyonce and Win Butler attend the Tidal launch event #TIDALforALL at Skylight at Moynihan Station on March 30, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images For Roc Nation)
The first artist-owned streaming service, Jay Z released Tidal in 2015 along with her wife, Beyonce. He originally purchased the obscure Norwegian streaming service for $56.5 million, re-branding it as a “artist-first” company. The overarching reason for the initiative was to give musicians more creating autonomy over their profits. Services such as Spotify have long been criticized for not fairly paying artists.
In retrospect, Tidal was an admirable effort that ultimately fell flat. Failing to create a valuable differentiating point for consumers, Tidal struggled to pull consumers away from other services. In addition, they were hit with several lawsuits upon launching. While the idea was rooted in looking to support artists, it proved that running an essential service involves far more roadblocks than was anticipated.
Armand de Brignac
LONDON – JULY 02: (EMBARGOED FOR PUBLICATION IN UK TABLOID NEWSPAPERS UNTIL 48 HOURS AFTER CREATE DATE AND TIME) Jay-Z attends the Armand de Brignac ‘A Taste of Gold’ party hosted by Jay-Z and the editor of GQ Magazine Dylan Jones, at Automat on July 2, 2008 in London, England. (Photo by Dave M. Benett/Getty Images)
Additionally known as Ace of Spaces, Armand de Brignac is a French Champagne owned by Jay Z. Owning the brand since 2014, the beverage contains roots from French winemaking houses in the 1600s. Before the pandemic, the brand was approaching one million bottle sales annually. Like many of Jay Z’s other business ventures, Armand de Brignac is a luxury-based brand that appeals to a wealthy consumer base.
Recently, Jay Z sold a 50 percent stake in the company to LVMH. They own other name-brand champagnes such as Dom Perignon and Veuve Clicquot. Jay stated, “We are confident that the sheer power of LVMH in developing luxury brands will give Armand de Brignac the commercial power it needs to grow and flourish even further.” Jay Z reportedly made over $300 million from the deal, cementing his status as a billionaire.
Uber
While Jay Z is most well-known for creating (or purchasing) other businesses and building them up, he’s also proven to be an intelligent angel investor. A primary example of this was his $2 million purchase of a stake in Uber back in 2011. Seeing the company’s vision for innovating the transportation industry, that stake is worth over $70 million. In fact, Uber isn’t the only proof of Jay Z’s competence as an investor. He’s also made millions from investments in JetSmarter, Julep, and Away. In addition, he’s supported a variety of exciting startups that display exciting levels of potential.
The wait is over and Belly is back. In the past two years since he released See You Next Wednesday, the rapper’s confirmed that he plans to retire in the near future. Fortunately, he has a few albums in the cut before he does. This morning, Belly returned with his latest single, “American Nightmare,” a new collaboration with Hit-Boy. The “Might Not” rapper sounds as revitalized as ever, gliding through the horn-centric production with command and high energy. Along with Hit-Boy, Nick Lamb and DannyBoyStyles share co-production credits on “American Nightmare.”
With politically-charged bars, the rapper kicks off the campaign for Mumble Rap 2 due out on May 19th. On “American Nightmare,” he delves deep into the targeting of the Middle Eastern community across the U.S. “Coming from a place that the media constantly demonizes, I wanted to express how proud I am of being not only an Arab, but someone who’s been able to set an example for young Arabs everywhere,” he explained. “The Arabian Dream, feels like the American Nightmare sometimes but we’d rather be dreamers. It’s easy to be patient when you know what you’re destined for.”
Belly Prepares For Mumble Rap 2
Belly has undoubtedly earned his reputation as a writer, from penning some of The Weeknd’s biggest hits to his own hit records. However, Mumble Rap 2, which will be executive produced by Hit-Boy, will remind fans of his proficiencies as an MC, which are on full display on “American Nightmare.” “With the first Mumble Rap I had already had a hit record and I wanted to remind people not to forget, where I actually come from & that I really do this,” he said of his upcoming project in a statement.
The rapper confirmed earlier this year that he will release three more albums, including MR2, before he hands up the microphone for good. “I love yall with all my heart, sincerely, but this industry has taken it’s [sic] toll on me,” Belly wrote in February. “MR2 will be the first of my last three albums ever. Mini tour for MR2 then a farewell tour after my next 2.” Though the news is bittersweet, we’re excited to hear what he has up his sleeve on Mumble Rap 2. Check out his latest single above.
Quotable Lyrics 5 mill for the Cali crib Middle finger to my old neighbors I put out a album called Immigrant I’m in the country with no papers, damn
Jay-Z blessed fans with some new music inspired by his recent performance at Foundation Louis Vuitton. The rapper came through with a remix of his 2009 hit with Alicia Keys, “Empire State Of Mind.” The rework, titled “New York (Concept De Paris),” sheds the big, radio-friendly vibe of the song’s original version for a gritty and bluesy rendition. The mash-up between “Empire State Of Mind” and Gill Scott Heron’s “New York Is Killing Me” brings a beautiful pairing between two of the city’s greatest poets of all time.
The song’s release came shortly after Jay-Z appeared in Paris for a rare performance at Basquiat x Warhol. Painting Four Handsexhibition. Foundation Louis Vuitton hosted the incredibly rare and intimate performance in front of a smaller crowd. Hov went through the catalog and delivered an exceptional set including songs like “Can’t Knock The Hustle,” “Can I Live,” “U Don’t Know,” “N***as In Paris,” and “Heart Of The City (Ain’t No Love).” He also debuted “New York (Concept De Paris)” when he performed “Empire State Of Mind.”
Jay-Z Takes On Paris
Jay-Z’s performance in Paris led fans to hope that, perhaps, he might be returning with new music soon. The Brooklyn-born rapper has hardly delivered new solo music in recent times. For the most part, he’ll pop out with a guest verse, such as his show-stopping performance alongside Rick Ross and Lil Wayne on DJ Khaled’s “God Did.” He released 4:44 in 2017 before teaming up with Beyonce on Everything Is Love as The Carters and then, linked up with Jay Electronica on A Written Testament.
During an interview with Kevin Hart in 2022, Jay-Z addressed the possibilities of retirement. He seemingly ruled it out, largely because he has a consistent urge to remain creative. However, he’s not necessarily focusing on releasing a new album. “I don’t know what happens next,” he said. “I’m not actively making music or making an album or have plans to make an album, but I never want to say that I’m retired. It’s a gift, so who am I to shut it off. And it may have a different form or interpretation. Maybe it’s not an album, maybe it is. I have no idea, but I’m just going to leave it open.” We’ll keep you posted on any more updates on Jay-Z.
Flau’jae Johnson, simply referred to as Flau’jae, is the hottest commodity in entertainment right now. As Flau’jae Johnson, she’s one of the star student-athletes on the historic championship-winning Louisiana State University Tigers women’s basketball team. Other the other hand, as Flau’jae she is a Roc Nation signee with a budding rap career. While fans of each respective industry would prefer the entertainer to choose one over the other, on her latest single, “Big 4,” Flau’jae silences the naysayers as she raps, “Are you gonna rap or be an athlete? / If I’m still doing both why you asking me?”
Even before taking home the NCAA tournament trophy, the musician was no stranger to the spotlight. After getting her start on music reality television shows such as The Rap Game hosted by Jermaine Dupri and America’s Got Talent, Flau’jae has used her competitive edge to score big both on and off of the court.
Sneaking away from the set of an undisclosed project, I had the chance to speak with Flau’jae about her upcoming collaboration Lil Wayne, the status of her current relationship with Jermaine Dupri, her ranking of other athletes that have pursued a music career, who her dream musical collaborators are, her forthcoming project, and more.
Flau’jae Johnson #4 of the LSU Lady Tigers reacts during the fourth quarter against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the 2023 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament championship game at American Airlines Center on April 02, 2023 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
The following interview has been edited for clarity and length
HNHH:First and foremost, congratulations on your championship win. Following your team’s victory, you could hear your song “Big 4” playing in the stadium. What was the feeling like holding that trophy and hearing your music play at the same time?
FJ: Oh, it was, it was an unbelievable feeling. It was a wow moment, like, ‘wow, everything is finally paying off.’ You know? The music is working. Basketball is working. Everything’s just going into well.
So, that’s not the only major moment you’ve had in the past couple of weeks. Recently, you were on stage with Kevin Gates at a show where he later was presented with the key to his hometown of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. How did that moment happen?
[Kevin gates] wanted to congratulate us on winning a national championship. He bought us out. Bought us flowers. Me and some of my teammates. I talked to him. He was just really proud of us and what everything we’re doing and how he was putting on for Baton Rouge.
Is there a possibility of you two working together in the near future?
Yeah, it definitely is a possibility. If the situation is right, we definitely can make that happen. But that was my first time meeting him and he just welcomed me with open arms.
Kevin Gates isn’t the only Louisiana native that you’ve kind of been getting kudos and praise and flowers from recently. During an appearance on ESPN, Lil Wayne showed you some love. He also shared that you two are in talks to do a collaboration together. Is it one off song? Is it a full project? What can we expect?
It’s a song right now, but I expect some heat. I mean, I’m very excited to be cooking up him. When you’re with a legend like Lil Wayne you have to make sure that you are doing your thang on the track. But I’m very excited. I want to say thank you to Lil Wayne. I want to say thank you to Coach Mulkey for throwing the alley-oop to Lil Wayne. And also Sue Bird for asking about me on ESPN and putting that together. I appreciate y’all for that.
How was your relationship with Lil Wayne developed? He has shared a story that your LSU coach, Kim Mulkey throw you that alley-oop. So how did that relationship come about?
Well, we have met yet in real life. But he knew my dad growing up in a time where they were both making music and coming up. My father was murdered but but he was popular [as a rapper] so he knew of my father. Coach Mulkey just told him like, ‘I got a rapper on my team.’ So, Coach is a real one for that. All right, love. Thank you.
That’s amazing. You’ve come a long way in your musical career not just sports. You made your musical debut on reality tv competitions shows like The Rap Game and America’s Got Talent. Could you tell me what were the best things that you took away from those two experiences?
The biggest thing that I took away from those experiences was just learning how to execute under pressure. I feel like though in those moments is a lot of pressure on you to perform right there on the spot and to get it together. So to execute under pressure. That’s a big one for sure.”
If you had to compare your experiences on both. Which of the shows did you learn the most from?
I would say when I was on The Rap Game that gave me the biggest lessons because I was young. So I was able to be open and accept whatever I was taught and I was just give you so much knowledge on how to become a superstar in a way. How to carry myself, how to record, how to talk to the media, everything that I learned to be a professional in the field is what I learned on The Rap Game. So I think that was the most important.
With America’s Got Talent, that was more of a confidence builder. Hearing Simon Cowell tell me ‘you can be a superstar’ and stuff like that really built up my confidence. So there’s like two different aspects, but I will say I learned more when I was on The Rap Game.
Have you stayed in contact with anyone from the shows? I know Jermaine Dupri is really big on trying to help a talent flourish and mentoring. What is your relationship like with him now?
Actually, I just hit him. I was like, ‘We gotta mess the internet up.’ People would love to see me and him have something [in the works]. He produced a hit for me and make it all come back [full circle]. I told him, ‘That would be dope.’ I just talked to him on Easter. So we’re trying to figure that out.
Going back to where it started!
And I think that’s why it’s gonna be so cool. I feel like it’s gonna be a big moment for the culture. I think that for everything that I’m doing, it’s gonna put the pieces together. It’s gonna be a great reunion for all The Rap Game fans to remember. Because, I mean, we had the show had the world on lock, you know, I’m saying when that show was on the air. So I think it’d be great for the community.
Speaking of community, we’ve build one of your own. Releasing several projects over the last few years. Tell me about your growth in music. Where are you at right now? What are you being inspired by?
I make another hit every day. And the songs are so different. I don’t know what time I want to put these songs out because they get so much better and they just so good. It take a lot of hard work right now. It’s probably the hardest time because I have so much going on. I’m in school, I got the NIL deals every week. I still gotta be in the studio. I got to work with this producer. So it’s a lot right now. You know what I’m saying? But I just have to get back disciplined in my schedule.So I can make sure that everything is going according to plan. So that when it’s time for the summer, I’m able to turn up.
And what do those summer plans consist of? Are we getting another single? A visual? Are we getting a tour because you light up those stages?
I do light up the stage. I have a lot of new fans that want to meet me. So I’m not going on tour per se, on my own tour this summer but I will be doing like a lot of shows. I want to start doing meet and greets so I can meet my fans at those shows and things like that in those cities. So that by the time its ready for the tour, they can say, ‘I met her. I love her music.’ So I think I think that this summer is gonna be full of bookings.
You said that you’re working in the studio. Do you have a tentative rollout for maybe what’s next like an EP or are you going full length this time?
Usually, I do a four-song EP, but I’m like ‘man four songs enough to tell the story that I want to tell,’ you know what I mean? So I think I’m gonna do like a six or seven-song EP, this summer. It’s coming real soon we’re getting the rollout ready to visual was ready and man, it’s gonna be one to remember I could promise you that.
Flau’jae Johnson #4 of the LSU Lady Tigers drives the ball against Kate Martin #20 of the Iowa Hawkeyes during the first half during the 2023 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament championship game at American Airlines Center on April 02, 2023 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Will we see any guest verses from anybody?
There is actually gonna be some features. I don’t typically do features, I take pride in myself not collaborate with anybody because I want people to know I can stand on my own, I want people to know, ‘This girl can really rap.’ But some of my friends are on there. We’re trying to get a big feature on there as well. So hopefully we’ll make it happen.
Outside of your upcoming collaboration with Lil Wayne, who are your other dream collaborations?
Probably Adele. I love Adele. That would be different, but I love it. I really do love Rod Wave. Those are my top two. I really love them. J. Cole as well. He’s the greatest of all time to me.
It’s ironic that you mentioned J. Cole because he is both and athlete and a musician. So it only makes sense.
It makes sense.
That’s the center of your partnership with JBL.
I think that is really important you don’t put athletes in a box. They can do music too. You know what I mean? Like I’m getting to do both of the things I love. I have a NIL deal with JBL. I’m a JBL artists in basketball and music. They go hand in hand. So I’m going to court I got my JBLs on my hand you feel me. So I think that being multiversed. Doing different things is very important as an artist and as a basketball player.
If you had to play a game of one-on-one against J. Cole, Love & Basketball style, for a guest verse, who’s winning?
That’s gonna be me. I gotta do what I gotta do.
During your time on the All-Star Season of America’s Got Talent,you said when you initially stepped into rap music you were looking to continue the legacy of your late father. Now, you want to build on your own legacy. So my question to you is, what does your legacy look like? What do you want your legacy to be remembered as?
Doing something that nobody’s ever done before. And I feel like I’m on that path to greatness. My legacy is going to consist of me being the first being a pioneer in the space that nobody has touched on. Just being an athlete. Being a basketball player. Being an entrepreneur all at one time at the highest level. I think me exemplifying that is a form of true greatness. And so that’s what that’s what I want my legacy to consist of. And that’s the light that I want to step into, regarding what I’m doing.
