In the age of social media, it’s not uncommon to see celebrities pull off PR stunts to draw more attention to their projects. Cardi B and Offset is a great example of a couple who have intentionally turned their real-life drama into cold-hard cash thanks to the internet. Of course, there are also those who accidentally go viral while promoting their work, such as TDE’s REASON. The lyricist revealed earlier this summer that his next LP, Porches, is due out this coming New Music Friday (August 11).
During his customary round of press interviews, the 32-year-old got to talking about some of the artists he’s collaborating with on the album, also revealing that some features – specifically with Latto and EST Gee – fell through, seemingly as a result of his label’s slacking. Before long, TDE co-president Moosa got on the line, and he was quick to assert that they weren’t sure about signing REASON in the first place. Some assumed that the feud was all an attempt to stir up streams for the project, but on Tuesday (August 8) morning, the “Extinct” artist shut that down.
REASON is Keeping the Energy Positive Ahead of PORCHES
I appreciate ppl that’s reached out to me. Trust I’m as good as I can be. We’ll have a real convo at some point about what happened, just trust that wasn’t a “rollout move” lol that actually happened! All positive energy as of now moving forward tho! Porches Friday! Love y’all!
“I appreciate [people] that’s reached out to me,” he tweeted today. “Trust, I’m as good as I can be. We’ll have a real convo at some point about what happened, just trust that wasn’t a ‘rollout move’ lol. That actually happened! All positive energy as of now moving forward tho. ‘Porches’ Friday! Love y’all!” REASON concluded his update.
Prior to his heated discussion with Moosa, REASON took time in another recent interview to clear up any gossip about his past beef with Logic. While the two seemingly took shots at each other on past releases, the West Coast native says he didn’t see his initial bars about being compared to the father of two as a diss, but rather, simply speaking the truth. Read what else REASON revealed at the link below, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.
Reason voiced his frustrations with Top Dawg Entertainment while speaking with the label’s co-president, Anthony “Moosa” Tiffith Jr., for a recent episode of BACKONFIGG. In doing so, Reason explained that he is unhappy with the rollout of his upcoming album Porches. He revealed that TDE dropped the ball on securing features he wanted from Latto and EST Gee.
“We had certain features lined up that could’ve went through,” he vented. “We had the budget, we had the feature lined up, takes too long to get pushed through, feature price ended up going up or something goes away. Content ideas lined up, not executed. Rollout ideas lined up, not executed.”
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 10: Rapper Reason performs onstage during the 92.3 Real Street Festival at Honda Center on August 10, 2019 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)
He elaborated: “It was a few different things. I had Latto lined up for something, not executed. I had EST Gee lined up, not executed. Like, us not pushing through. Features lined up, we got a price set, video and verse for the love, takes too long. I’ll speak on the EST Gee shit specifically — took too long to get through to EST Gee and his people and be like, ‘Yo, this is what we wanna do.’ By the time we ended up connecting with him and reaching out, he dropped a record with Future and the record went cr*zy. Now, the feature is $25,000 more than what it already was.”
Reason Voices Complaints About TDE
At one point, Moosa called into the stream directly to discuss the situation. As things got heated, Moosa claimed that TDE’s former co-president, Dave Free, never even wanted to sign Reason in the first place. “Aye, Dave, Dot [Kendrick Lamar], I love them n****s. Dave never wanted us to sign Reason. He called him a substitute teacher. Dot only said Reason had talent, but it’s gon’ take more than just talent in this game right now and everybody know that.” Amidst the arguing, Reason at one point asks, “You wanna have a conversation or you wanna go viral, which one you wanna do?” Porches will be releasing on Friday, August 11. Check out the full interview above.
Jay Rock is back with his latest single, “Eastside,” featuring Kal Banx. The release of the new song marks Rock’s first new single in five years. Back in 2018, Jay Rock released his third studio album and major label debut, Redemption. The album featured the biggest hit songs of his career, including “King’s Dead” and “Win.” The former earned Jay Rock his first Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance in 2019.
In the wake of his new single, Jay Rock has been teasing his upcoming fourth studio album. Speaking about his forthcoming release, Jay Rock promised “good quality music” with “no skips.” When it comes to Jay Rock’s consistency over the years, the expectations for his next release are high. We have compiled a list of his best songs to commemorate Jay Rock’s return. This list draws from Jay Rock’s discography, including his three studio albums. Take a look at the list below, ranked from least to greatest.
“Hood Gone Love It” is a quintessentially west coast hip hop song from Jay Rock’s 2011 debut album, Follow Me Home. J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League produced the anthemic track. Jay Rock represents his hood in his hometown of Watts, California, rapping with a tough yet relaxed delivery. Kendrick Lamar shines on the song with a choppy and rhyme scheme-heavy verse.
He raps as if he does not need to take a single breath. Jay Rock and Kendrick depict scenes of poverty and crime in their verses, but the song is still celebratory as they embrace where they come from. “Hood Gone Love It” is one of many songs the Black Hippy collaborators have made together.
“Easy Bake” is yet another phenomenal display of Jay Rock’s and Kendrick Lamar’s chemistry. The song is a hectic exchange of bars between the two over a slowly bouncing trap beat. Outside of Black Hippy, “Easy Bake” is easily one the best songs Jay Rock and Kendrick have made together because they naturally flow off one another. I
f the first part of the song was not exciting enough, the track shifts into a funky, choppy instrumental made for summertime cruising. SZA contributes one of her best vocal performances, and Jay Rock spits another verse. On the remix to “Easy Bake,” titled “Traffic Jam,” Kendrick Lamar also contributes another verse.
Much like “Easy Bake,” “Wanna Ride” is a song with unexpected beat switches that create an exciting listening experience. Jay Rock flows smoothly over the twinkling instrumentation for a minute before the song transforms into a bouncing instrumental, which he floats over. The lyrics stick to Jay Rock’s signature gangsta rap style, but his delivery is much more playful on this song. While Isaiah Rashad does not spit a verse, his hook is powerful enough to take the spotlight.
2. “Gumbo” (2015)
Jay Rock is known for his ultra-tough delivery and gangsta rap bars, but some of his greatest songs see him at his most reflective. Over an instrumental that blends modern with vintage, Jay Rock raps some of his most potent lyrics, looking back into his childhood and at his place in hip hop. Even when he does not rap aggressively, his voice is just as commanding. The chorus’s hypnotic soul brings the song together, reinforcing Jay Rock’s idea that he brings his own flavor to the music.
1. “Money Trees Deuce” feat. Lance Skiiiwalker (2015)
Jay Rock’s verse on Kendrick Lamar’s “Money Trees” is still regarded as a show-stealing appearance on one of hip hop’s best masterpieces. On “Money Trees Deuce,” Jay Rock expands on his legendary verse, painting a picture of the lifestyle of doing whatever it takes to get money. He raps about the causes and effects of street life and the paranoia that comes with it. “Money Trees Deuce” is equally as descriptive as its predecessor but takes on its own unique perspective as Jay Rock’s story is a much more cautionary tale. For its instrumental, “Money Trees Deuce” flips a song from a Marvin Gaye soundtrack into its own cinematic experience.
ScHoolboy Q, born as Quincy Matthew Hanley, has an estimated net worth of about $6 million as of 2023, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This sum underscores the significant strides he has made in his journey from a troubled childhood to the apex of the rap scene.
From Streets To Studio: ScHoolboy Q’s Musical Journey
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 23: Schoolboy Q Visits Music Choice on April 23, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)
ScHoolboy Q’s path to prosperity was paved through his passion for music. Bursting onto the scene in the mid-2000s, Q quickly established himself as a formidable presence in the hip-hop world. His albums, including the platinum-certified Oxymoron, have been commercial successes, considerably enhancing his net worth. The rapper remains one of Top Dawg Entertainment‘s most applauded standouts. His work with the California label and fellow label signees has earned them a respected reputation in hip-hop.
Diversification: Beyond Music For ScHoolboy Q
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – JULY 21: Schoolboy Q performs on Day Two of ComplexCon Chicago at McCormick Place on July 21, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Timothy Hiatt/Getty Images)
ScHoolboy Q’s income sources extend beyond his music career. He has delved into acting, appearing in TV shows and movies. These ventures have provided additional income streams, contributing to his $6 million net worth. In addition to his music and acting careers, ScHoolboy Q has shown astute business sense. He has invested in merchandise, selling branded clothing and accessories to his fans. These entrepreneurial pursuits have helped to swell his net worth.
Philanthropy: ScHoolboy Q’s Commitment To Giving Back
PEBBLE BEACH, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 03: Musician ScHool Boy Q plays his shot from the fifth tee during the first round of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am at Monterey Peninsula Country Club on February 03, 2022 in Pebble Beach, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images)
While ScHoolboy Q’s net worth is certainly noteworthy, his philanthropic efforts are equally admirable. He has used his wealth to give back to the community, supporting causes close to his heart. His charitable endeavors have made a positive impact, demonstrating that his wealth is not just about personal accumulation but also about contributing to societal good.
Recap/TLDR
To conclude, ScHoolboy Q’s net worth of $6 million as of 2023 reflects his diversified career. From his successful music career to his ventures in acting and entrepreneurship, each aspect of his professional life has contributed to his financial success. Moreover, his commitment to philanthropy shows that he understands the value of wealth beyond personal gain. ScHoolboy Q’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and the ability to diversify one’s income. His story inspires many, illustrating that success can be multifaceted and wealth can be used as a force for positive change.
Top Dawg Entertainment’s run to the top of hip-hop will forever be enshrined in the genre’s history. Rising out of Carson, California, the label went from Los Angeles’s impoverished streets to selling out world tours. The label’s rise mirrored what Death Row could do decades earlier—with less chaos. However, Ab-Soul’s name was rarely mentioned in the context of Top Dawg Entertainment’s mainstream success. The Carson MC is more so an under-spoken and patient verse creator compared to his contemporaries. However, he’s meticulously compiled an impressive resume over the past decade.
Ab-Soul wrote his first rap verse at 12, scheming over Twista’s “Emotions.” A self-described nerd and outcast in school, he contracted Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, which is the reason for his light-sensitive eyes and trademark black shades. Severely teased at school for his condition, he began utilizing rapping as an outlet. By the early 2000s, he started recording songs before he met the president of TDE. After signing with Top Dawg Entertainment in 2007, he joined the West Coast hip-hop group Black Hippy. The collective consisted of Kendrick Lamar, Jay Rock, and Schoolboy Q.
Ab-Soul Broke Out With 2012’s Control System
Black Hippy quickly gained notoriety throughout Los Angeles, making Ab-Soul’s solo career under TDE a logical next step. While Longterm served as his debut mixtape, 2012’s Control System would become a beloved and gatekept project for alternative rap fans. The album mirrored many of the sonic ideations of Kendrick Lamar’s Section 80, picking from various jazzy beats. Ab-Soul would continue to lean into a darker persona over the next four years, releasing 2014’s These Days and 2016’s Do What Thou Wilt. The latter would become his most critically acclaimed project of the lot, featuring the hit track “The Law” featuring Mac Miller and Rapsody. While Ab-Soul has never reached the mainstream popularity of many of his contemporaries, his ability to stay true to his eclectic nature has garnered a loyal fanbase.
Ab-Soul’s New Album Focuses On Vulnerability
LOS ANGELES, CA – AUGUST 30: Rapper Ab-Soul performs during Day 1 of the Budweiser Made in America festival at Los Angeles Grand Park on August 30, 2014 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Chelsea Lauren/WireImage)
In 2022, Ab returned after a six-year hiatus for the personal and reinvigorating Herbert. The project saw him motivated for the first time in a long time. The wait wasn’t intended to be that long, as the album was initially slated to release in 2020 before the COVID-19 pandemic. He told GQ, “The pandemic is probably where it was the roughest, where it was the darkest for me. We all kinda had to sit with ourselves, in solitude.” However, Herbert isn’t as focused on the negativity that Ab-Soul was feeling during the pandemic. Instead, the record focuses on his personal improvements in mental health. The rapper admitted to attempting suicide and detailed his incredible recovery.
The seasoned veteran went on to discuss the album with XXL, stating, “The album Herbert is about getting back to self. I just kinda feel like I was becoming Ab-Soul more than Herbert. So, this album, to say the least, is dedicated to the people that refuse to call me Ab-Soul. That still call me Herbert or Herbie or Herb. It’s about getting back to the roots. Getting back to the foundation, to the source. Getting back to self.” Ab-Soul expressed growth in his musical chops on the project, experimenting more with auto-tune choruses while proving he’s still one of the most intricate writers in Los Angeles’s hip-hop arena.
He’s L.A.’s Underground MC
In essence, Ab-Soul has morphed himself into TDE’s staple underground artist over the years. For fans who resonate less with the booming 808s and larger-than-life production of Kendrick Lamar or Schoolboy Q, Ab-Soul’s sound acts as a refreshing detour for Los Angeles loyalist rap fans. He’s heavily contributed to hip-hop’s continued focus on lyricism and emotional vulnerability. As he puts it plainly on Herbert, “I don’t know what to think.” However, Ab-Soul embraces that sense of obscurity through his music, gaining his respect within the industry.
The past calendar year has been a period of change for Ab-Soul. Following up on the success of Herbert, he collaborated with fellow TDE member Zacari on “Motions.” Beyond his music creation, he welcomed a pair of twins to the world in April. However, he’s remained purposefully coy regarding who the mother is. In addition, he is partnering with the Mickey Factz Pendulum Ink Academy, where he’s teaching a class surrounding hip-hop songwriting. He isn’t the first MC to spread his pen game to the rest of the world, with rappers such as Lupe Fiasco and Q-Tip also teaching hip-hop courses. The placement speaks volumes to Ab-Soul’s notoriety and respect within the genre, making him the untold hero of Top Dawg Entertainment.
Within recent years, there has been a surge in some of the Hip Hop greats trading their mics in for a seat as a teacher. Some of these artists include Bun-B, Q-Tip, Lupe Fiasco, 9th Wonder, and many more. Ab-Soul is looking forward to joining this roster of educators. The self-proclaimed “Black Lip Pastor” is looking to take his skill set to the classroom to teach a class of his own.
The class is in partnership with the Mickey Factz Pendulum Ink Academy. The Pendulum Ink Academy frequently hosts classes by hip-hop professionals. Students can purchase access to learn more about the Hip Hop business from those in it. Ab-Soul’s upcoming class is next on their lineup. His lessons will include more knowledge of his writing technique, flow, and emotional process. Adding to its exclusivity, he will be answering questions from 10 participants about his own songwriting process. This class will take place on May 24 at 7 p.m. EST. On Monday, Mickey Factz made the announcement of the class. He finishes the caption with “Long Live Lyricism.”
Moreover, he has been the most authentic about the experiences in his life inspiring his music. Last December, he released his album HERBERT which was named after his actual first name. The album came six years after his previous work Do What Thou Wilt in 2016. The same month, he did a sit-down interview with Charlamagne Tha God where he got candid about drugs, mental health, and the creative process behind the album. He shared that his experiences outside of music influenced the lyrical content of the album. He also shared the more current status of his mental health still being in the healing process. Additionally, students in the upcoming class can learn a lesson on authenticity through his style of rap.
Furthermore, Ab-soul has a lineup of upcoming appearances. He recently announced he has become the father of twins. He will also be releasing a deluxe version of HERBERT this year. Additionally, he is set to go on his The Intelligent Movement Tour next month. His upcoming class is now available for purchase access on the Pendulum Ink Academy website.
SZA has put out some of the most impactful music of this generation. With classics like her debut tape, CTRL, to her new highly anticipated album SOS, it’s clear SZA’s in a league of her own. Moreover, with her new album, fans have continued to rave over it since its release. Garnering much success, along with a ton of accolades has catapulted the “Go Gina” songstress into a new stratosphere. Recently, SZA and the Queen Bey are the only two Black Women (shout out Black Women) to release a No.1 album and No.1 song in this 2020 decade.
Not only that, SZA expressed how honored she was to receive a No.1 album and song. It’s not every day you get a No.1 album and song in the same space as Mrs. Carter. Later, after thanking her fans for their amazing support of her record. Not to mention, the “Kill Bill” remix featuring Doja Cat became the singer’s first No.1 song on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. She took to Instagram to extend her gratitude for the high honor. “To be next to the queen is an honor,” SZA wrote on Instagram.
SZA Tweets Her Favorite Songs Off Her New Album
snooze ,love language, kill bill ,nobody gets me ,ex pack ,blind ,good days ,gone girl, I hate u, F2F,low , seek and destroy , ghost , Sos , used. Personal picks .
Furthermore, since releasing the album and performing it on tour, SZA’s had some time to reflect. In a recent tweet the TDE signee revealed a few of her favorite cuts from SOS. “snooze ,love language, kill bill ,nobody gets me ,ex pack ,blind ,good days ,gone girl, I hate u, F2F,low , seek and destroy , ghost , Sos , used. Personal picks,” SZA tweeted. In a follow up tweet, she also mentioned that “Forgiveless” was also in her picks of favorite tracks. Plus who doesn’t love that ODB (Ol’ Dirty Bastard) verse?
Henceforth, SOS has been a smash hit across the board. It’s been one of the most celebrated albums of 2022. Not only were fans already waiting feverishly for SZA to drop the album, the tape is filled with amazing songs that are relatable and resonate deeply with her fanbase. What are your favorite songs off the album? Is this SZA’s best project to date. Let the HNHH crew know what you think in the comments below!
Though Kendrick Lamar is gone, the future of TDE is still looking bright. 2022 was a magnificent year for the label, which saw the release of two albums from its biggest artists. Still, fans want more from Top Dawg Entertainment, especially the signees who joined the roster over the past five years. Reason, for example, has left fans begging for a follow-up to 2020’s New Beginnings. Though he hasn’t announced a project yet, he’s certainly setting the tone for what to expect with his latest offering.
This morning, Reason returned with a celebratory anthem titled, “At It Again.” With production handled by COLEMAN, Motif Alumni, and Tariq, the Carson-born MC brings high energy to match the triumphant production. As the victorious horn-like synths and bright piano chords emerge, Reason comes through with infectious quotables as he combats his haters and basks in the glory. “Top Dawg, check the creditin’, so much money, it feel like we embezzlin’,” he raps on the record.
Reason Begins A New Chapter
The release of Reason’s new single is a strong signt hat his album is on the way. Earlier this week, Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith hosted a brief Q&A on Twitter where he shared some promising signs of what to expect from the label. He confirmed Reason would be dropping this year, along with ScHoolboy Q, Jay Rock, and other members of TDE. “Reason , rayvaughn , doechii , Q , jay rock , zac and a compilation .. if everybody do their part … when they turn them in I will release em,” he said.
At this point, Reason could be the first from the roster to slide through in 2023. Though “At It Again” marks his first official release of the year, he recently debuted “Dawg Forgotten” on Instagram at the top of the month. Meanwhile, he also contributed to Dreamville’s Creed III soundtrack, for “Burn Bridges” ft. Lute Cozz and Arin Ray, and “Culture” ft Mez, Symba & 8AE. We’ll keep you posted on anymore updates from Reason. Check out his new single above.
Quotable Lyrics Phone calls, I got SZA my cellular Moms good, pops good, that’s a level up Why you ain’t winning? ‘Cause you ain’t good enough My success is a big lesson, you bitch Wild n***a, I been reckless, bitch Coming straight for your necklace, bitch
