LL COOL J is looking to go 3/3 on the singles front for his upcoming album as he drops “Proclivities” with Saweetie. Prior to this, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee put out “Passion” and “Saturday Night Special” with Rick Ross and Fat Joe. The New York legend had taken a lot of time to get The FORCE right and lately, he’s been feeling that is a project worth hyping up. “We’re talking 14 tracks of straight fire, all crafted by myself and the one and only Q-Tip. When you listen to this album, you’re not just hearing music, you’re experiencing a whole new vibe, a whole new level of artistic passion”. So far, we have certainly been hearing the detailed approach from LL and Q. The previous tracks have been in our rotation consistently thanks to standout rapping and instrumentals that recapture the early days of hip-hop.
When fans heard that LL COOL J would be working with Saweetie on a song, they weren’t sure how it would sound. However, we are happy to report that the California femcee is able to put forth a pretty killer performance. She flexes her singing chops on the chorus which are highly sexual and steamy. She then effortlessly transitions right into her raunchy verse, keeping the sensual tension high. LL’s verses carry a majority of the runtime, and both of their performances are backed by another winning instrumental from Q-Tip. Its smoky, grand, and it’s just got an alluring quality to it. Fans can expect to have LL’s new album, The FORCE, on September 6. Stream “Proclivities” and check out its accompanying music video below.
LL Cool J wanders a rap bordello in the video for his newest single, “Proclivities,” which features Saweetie and is produced by Q-Tip. Over a ’80s New Wave-ish sample, LL raps about various kinks and fetishes — y’know, his usual, raunchy material — while Saweetie croons on the hook and references past LL hits like “Jingling Baby.” Naturally, there are plenty of scantily clad women scattered throughout the video, so maybe don’t watch on your work computer. If anyone was worried about LL’s previous proclamation that he had to “teach myself to rap again,” have no fear — his pen game sounds as sharp as ever (if anything, he sounds a lot like Nas, another Queens native).
In May, one of the best and biggest rap stars from Compton announced his new album. No, not that one. YG, who has been equally beloved in his hometown for just as long, gave a preview of the cover art for his album Just Re’d Up 3 (for reference, the original Just Re’d Up came out on May 2, 2011), following up with the announcement of his Just Re’d Up Tour and a string of upbeat singles, including “Knocka,” “Weird,” and “Shake.”
Today, YG shared the tracklist for the album, which appears to be a double album. It’s also a feature-packed affair, tapping a bunch of fellow West Coast rap favorites including Kalan.Frfr, Larry June, Mozzy, and YG’s girlfriend(?), Saweetie. Ty Dolla Sign also shows up a couple of times, while non-Golden State guests include Detroiters Babyface Ray and Tee Grizzley, Chicagoan G Herbo, and Atlanta’s own Lil Yachty. You can see the full tracklist below, courtesy of Apple Music.
Disc 1:
1. “Go Brazy” w/ Mustard & Baby Stone Gorillas
2. “Jesus Christ”
3. “Right Now”
4. “She Pretty” w/ Saweetie
5. “Only Fans” w/ Jaye Anderson
6. “Put It In My Hands” w/ Larry June
7. “Street Love” w/ Diamond Platnumz
8. “Her Way <3″ w/ Kalan.Frfr
9. “It’s Givin” w/ Ty Dolla Sign
10. “Interlude”
Disc 2
1. “Malibu” w/ Tee Grizzley & G Herbo
2. “Violence”
3. “Rescue Me” w/ Ty Dolla Sign
4. “Kolors” w/ Mozzy & Ackrite
5. “Love Make”
6. “Stupid” w/ Lil Yachty & Babyface Ray
7. “My Favorite” w/ Kalan.Frfr
8. “Knocka”
9. “Pimp My Ride”
10. “I’m In Love”
Just Re’d Up 3 is due in July via 4 Hunnid/EMPIRE. You can find more info here.
Saweetie is revealing what inspired her anthem, “Richtivities.” Speaking with Jen for an Audacy Check-In at the Hard Rock Hotel New York, Sawettie revealed that the release came from a yacht fun day.
“‘Richtivities’ came from [being] on a yacht with my home girls. We drank champagne, rode jet skis [and] ordered food to the boat. It was a crazy experience, and I was like, ‘this is a richtivity’ like a rich activity,” she said. “That’s what inspired that song. The underlying message is that if you work hard, this is what you reach. You reap the rewards of working hard. It’s a song to celebrate your wins or listen to when trying to reach certain goals.”
Listen to the Audacy Check-In below to hear Saweetie detail the story, her soundtrack to life, and more.
Saweetie unveiled “Richtivities” track under ICY/Warner Records. The song adds another dimension to the Northern California artist’s musical catalog with its infectious beat, confident lyrics, and undeniable swagger.
In “Richtivities,” Saweetie celebrates the empowerment of “pretty bitches” acronymized as B.I.T.C.H. (Boss, Intelligent, Tough, CEO, Hyphy), encouraging listeners to embrace their success and live boldly.
The release coincided with Saweetie’s exciting announcement of her role in the third season of Starz’s acclaimed series ‘BMF,’ alongside Ne-Yo and 2 Chainz. Saweetie portrays Keeya, a former college athlete with ties to the streets of St. Louis. The show, executive produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson for G-Unit Film and Television in collaboration with Lionsgate Television, promises riveting drama and stellar performances.
LL Cool J‘s long-awaited Q-Tip-produced 14th studio album has officially been given a title and a release date. The FORCE (Frequencies of Real Creative Energy) will be LL’s first new album in 11 years, and arrives September 6th via Def Jam Recordings/Virgin Music Group. Clocking in at 14 tracks, it will boast guest appearances from a who’s-who of both classic and contemporary rap stars, including Busta Rhymes, Eminem, Fat Joe, Nas, Saweetie, and Snoop Dogg.
“[I was] going back to the drawing board and learning how to rap again,” he told the Associated Press of the new album’s creation process. “The LeBrons, the Stephs, the Jordans and the Kobes, they all go back to the drawing board, they always try to make themselves better. I wasn’t trying to do trendy, and I wasn’t trying to recapture anything I did before.”
That included scrapping previous versions of the work, such as one he said he recorded with 50 Cent during his interview with The Breakfast Club last year. “When it was done, I listened to it,” he recalled. “I’m like, ‘It sounds good. I like the music, it sounds cool, but it ain’t me.’ So, I ain’t put it out.”
The FORCE (Frequencies of Real Creative Energy) is due 9/6 via Def Jam Recordings/Virgin Music Group. You can check out its first single, “Passion,” above, and see the tracklist below. Pre-order it here.
The FORCE Tracklist
01. “Spirit Of Cyrus” Feat. Snoop Dogg
02. “The FORCE”
03. “Saturday Night Special” Feat. Rick Ross & Fat Joe
04. “Black Code Suite” Feat. Sona Jobarteh
05. “Passion”
06. “Proclivities” Feat. Saweetie
07. “Post Modern”
08. “30 Decembers”
09. “Runnit Back”
10. “Huey In Da Chair” Feat. Busta Rhymes
11. “Basquiat Energy”
12. “Praise Him” Feat. Nas
13. “Murdergram Deux” Feat. Eminem
14. “The Vow” Feat. Mad Squablz, J-S.A.N.D. & Don Pablito
Kehlani is promoting her album, but she was asked about her old flame, YG, and his new relationship with Saweetie. Speaking with Ness Nitty, Kehlani wondered why she would care because she is living her best life as a lesbian.
“I’m a lesbian. Why would I care about my male…?” she stated. “I also don’t care what any of my exes are doing. Male, female, anything. My goal is everybody to be happy. Even when I’m with someone, if we decide that we’re not mutually happy, we really shouldn’t be together and we should go be with people who make us happy. That’s what I want and I love Saweetie, she’s so cool and so fine. And they make so much sense.”
From the vibrant streets of the Bay Area to the top of the charts, Saweetie has become a force to be reckoned with. Known offstage as Diamonté Quiava Valentin Harper, her charismatic presence and undeniable sense of style carved out her unique space in a crowded industry. Her music is a fusion of confident anthems and women empowerment, making her a standout artist.
Since her debut, Saweetie has consistently delivered tracks that dominate the charts and become cultural staples. Her music often celebrates confidence and fun, making her a favorite among listeners. We’ll explore five essential songs that capture the essence of Saweetie’s artistry and highlight her journey from a rising star to a household name in hip-hop.
1. “Icy Grl” (2017)
“Icy Grl” is the track that put Saweetie on the map. Released in 2017, this debut single became an instant hit. Sampling Khia’s “My Neck, My Back,” Saweetie flips the narrative into an anthem of empowerment and self-confidence. Further, the song’s success is also about Saweetie’s unapologetic embrace of her ambitions and lifestyle. “Icy Grl” serves as an introduction to her persona—cool, ambitious, and self-assured. It laid the foundation for her brand, with the “icy” theme becoming a signature aspect of her image, symbolizing her love for bling and her cool, composed demeanor in the face of challenges. Saweetie’s clever use of social media helped “Icy Grl” go viral. It also earned her a deal with Warner Records and set the stage for her subsequent hits. The song’s impact is undeniable, marking the beginning of her journey to becoming a household name in hip-hop.
2. “My Type” (2019)
Saweetie’s 2019 hit “My Type” brought her into the mainstream spotlight with its unmistakable energy. Sampling Petey Pablo’s “Freek-a-Leek,” the track boasts a catchy hook that quickly became a fan favorite. Its bold, unapologetic celebration of knowing one’s worth struck a chord with listeners, propelling the song up the charts. The track peaked at No. 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 and went platinum, further cementing Saweetie’s place in the music industry.
Beyond its chart-topping success, “My Type” had a significant cultural impact. It became a summer anthem, dominating clubs, parties, and social media. Fans and influencers took to platforms like TikTok to create dance challenges and viral videos. This further spread the song’s influence even further. The playful yet assertive lyrics showcase Saweetie’s talent for blending humor with empowerment. “My Type” exemplifies Saweetie’s ability to craft entertaining and empowering music, marking a pivotal moment in her career.
3. “Tap In” (2020)
With “Tap In,” Saweetie tapped into the essence of her Bay Area roots. She delivered a track that is both a nod to her origins and a testament to her growing influence in hip-hop. Released in 2020, the song samples Too $hort’s classic “Blow the Whistle,” blending nostalgia with a fresh, modern twist. Further, “Tap In” quickly became a summer hit. It climbed the Billboard Hot 100 and earned platinum certification. Its production made it a favorite for radio play and social media challenges.
Moreover, the resonance of “Tap In” extended beyond its chart performance. The track’s message resonated with a wide audience, especially those familiar with the Bay Area’s unique sound. “Tap In” celebrates Saweetie’s heritage and her ability to bring regional sounds to a global audience, further solidifying her status as a versatile and influential artist in the contemporary music scene.
“Best Friend,” featuring Doja Cat, is a vibrant anthem celebrating friendship and women empowerment. Released in early 2021, this collaboration between two of hip-hop’s rising stars quickly captured the public’s imagination. The song’s beat, playful lyrics, and undeniable chemistry between Saweetie and Doja Cat made it an instant hit. This track also peaked at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned multiple platinum certifications.
Additionally, the track’s impact goes beyond its commercial success. “Best Friend” became a phenomenon, inspiring countless TikTok challenges, memes, and social media posts. Its message and a fun and carefree vibe echoed particularly with young women. Saweetie and Doja Cat’s dynamic performance in the music video, filled with luxury, humor, and camaraderie, further cemented the song’s place as a feel-good hit of the year. “Best Friend” exemplifies Saweetie’s ability to craft entertaining and meaningful songs, reinforcing her position as a key voice in contemporary hip-hop.
5. “Back To The Streets” (Feat. Jhené Aiko) (2020)
“Back to the Streets,” featuring Jhené Aiko, showcases Saweetie’s more introspective side. Released in late 2020, this track diverges from her typical high-energy anthems, offering a smooth and soulful vibe highlighting her versatility as an artist. The collaboration with Jhené Aiko, known for her ethereal voice and serene presence, adds depth and harmony to the song, making it a standout in Saweetie’s discography.
The song’s lyrics tell a story of moving on and reclaiming one’s independence after a relationship, resonating with anyone who has experienced the complexities of letting go. Saweetie’s lyrical delivery is reflective and empowering, while Jhené Aiko’s soothing vocals perfectly complement the theme. “Back to the Streets” received critical acclaim for its mature and nuanced approach to self-worth and personal growth themes. The track broadened Saweetie’s musical range and reinforced her ability to connect with listeners on a deeper emotional level.
Saweetie may be hot off the presses of her new single “NANi,” but the fiery track isn’t enough to distract some rowdy fans at her shows. Moreover, she recently performed at the Vegandale festival, and footage emerged of the crowd storming away from the stage after a fight broke out. In fact, you can hear the Icy Girl provide her best efforts to calm folks down and check in with the rest to make sure that they’re safe, but it seems like things escalated far too quickly for her to mitigate the situation. It’s unclear whether her set continued or if this resulted in an early cut.
Furthermore, this is far from the toughest circumstances that Saweetie’s had to face in her career, as she recently spoke on her difficult come-up before the fame. Fortunately, it seems like this has been a pretty fruitful year so far in this career, with fresh new singles and a whole lot of social media hype. At press time, she still hasn’t responded to this Vegandale incident, but we also don’t know how clear she or her team is on the matter to be able to respond. After all, there are probably a lot of important items on the docket.
But not all of Saweetie’s headlines this year have been in-house, as she found herself in the middle of one of 2024’s numerous rap beefs. For those unaware, Quavo and Chris Brown battled earlier this year, including claims that she cheated on the former Migo with Breezy while they were still together. The Los Angeles native seemed to dismiss most of this, although she hit Quay with some shade amid his efforts to reach out again. It all seems pretty complicated, but she’s not breaking a sweat over it.
Meanwhile, Saweetie’s most recent interview held more interesting insights into her mentality, trajectory, and next moves. Hopefully future performances don’t fall victim to combative folks in the crowd again, but it’s obviously hard to arrange for this. After all, she and her team are just one part of the multi-faceted organism that is live music. But props are in order for trying to keep things civil and fun.
Before she was a hit-making rapper, Saweetie was a USC student paying her way with a secret job. While the Bay Area rapper has previously talked about working at a strip club to pay the bills, she previously played coy with the details. However, during a new interview with LA radio station Real 92.3, she finally revealed which local club she worked at before her rap career took off, and how she kept it a secret from her family.
While telling The Cruz Show about her experiences as a strip club waitress, Saweetie spilled the beans when the hosts wondered if she could name the club where she worked. She revealed that it was Dames ‘N’ Games in downtown LA, which she says she chose because she not only made way more than she did at another waitressing job (Buffalo Wild Wings), but also because “it’s not popular in the Black community, and I didn’t want nobody from my family or my friends of my family seeing me work a strip club.”
To that end, she even employed an alias while working there (which isn’t that unusual for the biz), “Carmen” — a name she chose because it “felt like a powerful, sexy name.” Now, though, Saweetie is good enough for the rapper, who has a new single, “Nani,” out, and is working toward the release of her debut album.
Almost every person on the planet knows that making it in the music industry is slim to none. However, if you look a certain way, some people are automatically going to assume that were set up for success. It seems that stigma gets placed on women especially from trolls and haters online. Unfortunately, the saying “sex sells” is quite accurate, at least in the United States. It is probably safe to assume that Saweetie puts up with people coming after her throughout her now established career.
But those rumors should be shut down now, especially after Saweetie got real about her come-up. The hitmaker joined the Brown Bag Mornings show on Power 106 to discuss her rough situation. In the first clip below (second slide), Host Letty Peniche gave credence to Saweetie’s struggles, mentioning how she was living out of her car. The callback to those times got Saweetie pretty emotional.
The “NANi” creator admitted that she was too prideful to tell her loved ones her couch-to-couch living scenario. Her friends were more than accommodating, offering her to live with them. However, she did not want to be a burden. Saweetie was able to make light during the interview saying that when it was time to party with them, she did not have to go home. Eventually, she built up enough money to rent a room and that is roughly the time she began to write “ICY GIRL.” On it she raps, “Looking in the mirror, I thank God for what I’m ’bout to be.” Saweetie told the interviewers that lyric made it in the song because she was uncomfortable lying about where she was in life. “I can’t even pop s***,” she said. Now, she can and we are so proud of her for coming so far!
What are your thoughts on Saweetie getting emotional about her come-up in the music industry? Is she one of the best female MC’s we have right now, why or why not? What songs are your favorites from her and why? Do you think we will get her big project sometime this summer? 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 Saweetie. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the world of music.
