Technology

Tyler Perry Puts $800M Studio Expansion on Hold After Seeing Possibilities of OpenAI

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Tyler Perry Puts $800M Studio Expansion on Hold After Seeing Possibilities of OpenAI

Artificial intelligence gives Tyler Perry something to consider regarding his massive $800 million studio expansion after witnessing the wide-ranging potential of OpenAI’s text-to-video model Sora.

IndieWire reported that even though Perry invested four years planning the studio expansion, “which would have added 12 soundstages to the backlot,” it will be “indefinitely on hold.” Now get this: Perry described the evolving tech as “mind-blowing.”

“All of that is currently and indefinitely on hold because of Sora and what I’m seeing,” Perry said. “I had gotten word over the last year or so that this was coming, but I had no idea until I saw recently the demonstrations of what it’s able to do. It’s shocking to me. Being told that it can do all of these things is one thing, but actually seeing the capabilities, it was mind-blowing.”

Apparently, Sora, said Perry, could make it so that studios don’t have to do multiple-location shoots for films or even build practical sets. Perry is no stranger to AI integration, and he’s used the tech in upcoming films for aging makeup. Now, that’s scary for makeup artists in the business, but he did say, per the article, that AI could adversely affect below-the-line workers… Hmm, you think?

“It makes me worry so much about all of the people in the business. Because as I was looking at it, I immediately started thinking of everyone in the industry who would be affected by this, including actors and grip and electric and transportation and sound and editors, and looking at this, I’m thinking this will touch every corner of our industry,” Perry said. “I am very, very concerned that in the near future, a lot of jobs are going to be lost. I really, really feel that very strongly.”

Perry seems conscious of the potential pitfalls as it impacts the blue-collar side of the industry and stresses an “all hands on [deck]” approach to controlling AI and how it may affect skilled workers in the business.

“It can’t be one union fighting every contract every two or three years. I think that it has to be everybody, all involved in how do we protect the future of our industry because it is changing rapidly, right before our eyes,” he added, and went on to express concern in protecting workers when using AI. “I think the only way to move forward in this is to galvanize it as one voice, not only in Hollywood and in this industry, but also in Congress.”

Let’s see how this plays out for Perry, but it’s safe to say AI is here to stay.

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It’s 2024 And Eminem Is Still Using A BlackBerry Phone, Which They Don’t Even Make Anymore

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Eminem Roe
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Eminem has taken living in the past to a whole new level. Apparently, the “Stan” rapper’s key to cutting out the noise online is to downgrade his tech. Yesterday (February 22), DJ Whoo Kid revealed to his million Instagram followers that his longtime friend and collaborator still uses a BlackBerry phone. (BlackBerry, by the way, hasn’t made a new phone in years.)

He wrote, “#Eminem was trying to figure out who ate his last mom’s spaghetti box in the dressing room. I was like @momsspaghettidetroit I told him it was @iamdenaun and by the way yes. He still has a blackberry phone.”

While most followers focused on DJ Whoo Kid’s photo of homemade spaghetti, others couldn’t help but point out the technological relic.

“[Is] that a blackberry,” asked rapper Gashi, leading others to dogpile on.

Eminem DJ Whoo Kid Blackberry Instagram Sceenshot 2024
Instagram

DJ Whoo Kid, seemingly experiencing secondhand embarrassment, replied, “Yes. He still has it.”

Another user called out their friend and Eminem for being “the only people left in this world communicating w BlackBerry.”

Eminem DJ Whoo Kid Blackberry Instagram Sceenshot 2024
Instagram

“LMAOOOO the blackberry phone,” wrote one user.

Eminem DJ Whoo Kid Blackberry Instagram Sceenshot 2024
Instagram

“Does using a Blackberry keep you from aging or what Slim,” jokingly asked one user.

Eminem DJ Whoo Kid Blackberry Instagram Sceenshot 2024
Instagram

Maybe vintage tech is the foundation of youth everyone’s so desperately been after. Or it could just be Eminem being his typical introverted self. There is no way you can get into an X (formerly Twitter) spat if your phone can’t even access the app in the first place. Kendrick Lamar’s Pgland company might’ve found its ideal customer for their anti-distraction device, LightPhone.

JERMAINE DUPRI AND SO SO DEF RECORDINGS INKS MULTI-YEAR DEAL WITH CREATE MUSIC GROUP

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JERMAINE DUPRI AND SO SO DEF RECORDINGS INKS MULTI YEAR DEAL WITH CREATE MUSIC GROUP

Jermaine Dupri is making moves- and taking his talents with him. This week, So So Def Recordings, Inc. has inked a multi-year deal with Create Music Group. The newly minted partnership will bring the legendary label and all its recordings, publishing, as well as its historic So So Def Recordings back catalog to Create Music Group. In addition, the new collaboration will launch new music and new artists under the direction of Dupri, who will also serve as the new Creative Director for Create Music Group.

Furthermore, Dupri will transition from CEO of So So Def Recordings to Chairman & Founder, and has appointed Bryan Patrick Franklin as the new CEO and Joe Romulus Esq as Head of Legal Business Affairs.  As Creative Director, Dupri’s plans include focusing on expanding the company’s impact on the cross-section between music and culture. Regarding the new deal, the GRAMMY® Award-winning producer and hall of fame songwriter commented, “I have been looking for a home for the entire So So Def brand so I can continue to do what I started.”

“Jermaine has been one of the most successful and impactful forces in music for the last three decades,” said Jonathan Strauss, Founder and CEO of Create Music Group. “We are honored that he and his team have decided to partner with us for both his catalog and future output.”

Fans are the ones who will benefit the most from this new partnership as they plan to roll out tons of new music, while introducing new talent for the world to embrace, ushering in a “new day” at So So Def Recordings.

Established in 2015, Create Music Group is a data-driven media and technology company focused on empowering artists and creators. Named #2 on the Inc 5000 Fastest Growth Companies in America in 2020, its industry-leading platforms enable rights holders, distributors, artists and brands to identify and secure monetization opportunities and build new audiences, specifically on emerging social media platforms such as TikTok.

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Project Pat Returns with New Single “Hundred Million” and Innovative Remix Platform Partnership

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Project Pat Returns with New Single "Hundred Million" and Innovative Remix Platform Partnership

Project Pat triumphantly returns to the hip-hop scene with his latest single, “Hundred Million.” The track delves into the southern rap legend’s journey through hustling, his impact on the music industry, and his relentless pursuit of a $100 million goal. Renowned for classics like “Chickenhead” and “Poppin’ My Collar,” Project Pat’s influence echoes through the works of contemporary artists, including Cardi B, who sampled his tracks.

In a strategic move, Project Pat has collaborated with the Black-owned AI-powered platform, Happy Monday, to offer fans and social creators an innovative musical experience. Happy Monday transforms a single song into many never-before-heard remixes, catering to diverse tastes. This partnership aligns with the growing trend of AI technology in the music industry, providing both options for listeners and new revenue streams for artists.

Happy Monday’s platform will present “Hundred Million” remixes in various styles, including dance, Lo-Fi, and rock versions. Fans can sign up for Beta access, and the official launch is anticipated in the coming months. Based on user feedback, selected remixes will be made available on streaming platforms and distributed through Venice Music. The initiative reflects the rising popularity of remixes, as seen in the resurgence of Project Pat’s “Take Da Charge” on TikTok in 2023, turning it into a viral hit overnight.

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Will.i.am Is Launching ‘The FYI Show’ On SiriusXM, Co-Hosted By Artificial Intelligence

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AI
Getty/Uproxx

Since Chat GPT dropped, conversations about the role AI will play in our lives have left people feeling uneasy about the rise of machines. Of course, people in tech know that we’ve had some form of AI in our devices for years now (and for the most part, we’ve loved it). It’s a broad conversation that deserves plenty of nuance, but regardless of where you stand, one thing is for certain: AI isn’t going anywhere. It’s only going to get bigger, smarter, and more intertwined with our day-to-day lives.

Will.i.am, who has long been highly regarded as a futurist, knows as much. Never one to be afraid of “what’s next,” he’s giving AI a major responsibility — co-hosting his new show.

Will.i.am Presents The FYI Show will drop on SiriusXM on January 25th. Episodes will focus on creators, innovators, and the future that people on the cutting edge are dreaming up for all of us to live in. And an AI by the name of Qd.pi. (“Cutie Pie”) will be at his side. Or… in his ear. Or… on his server.

Here’s a preview:

Will.i.am explained the concept to The Hollywood Reporter: “I didn’t want to just do a traditional show, I wanted to bring tomorrow close to today, and so I wanted to have my co-host be an AI… I’m ultra-freaking colorful and expressive. [Qd.pi is] ultra-freaking factual and analytical. And that combination, we ain’t seen in the history of freaking broadcasts anywhere.”

It’s hard to argue when Will.i.am has built an entire groundbreaking and influential career out of looking forward. Though, Qd.pi itself seems open to a bit of skepticism about the experiment. In an exclusive excerpt from The FYI Show‘s first episode, Qd.pi has this to say about the most important thing people need to know about AI right now:

AI is powerful but it’s not perfect. It can make mistakes and it’s important to be aware of that and to fact-check the information it provides. AI can be used for good and for bad so it’s crucial to use it responsibly and ethically. As AI gets more sophisticated it’s likely to have a bigger impact on our lives. From the way we work to the way we communicate and consume information. it’s important for people to stay informed and educated about AI and its potential impacts so that we can make the most of its benefits while also being mindful of its risks. Overall, it’s an exciting time for AI and technology but it’s also a time to approach these advancements with a healthy dose of caution and critical thinking.

Word. Consider us on board. If anyone is going to make this work we’d bet money it’s going to be the same person who dropped a track with Lil’ Wayne, J. Balvin, Britney Spears, and launched his own AI-driven workspace app all in the past 365 days.

Watch Will on Uproxx’s Fresh Pair below for more insight on his career and philosophy.

will.i.am Announces Radio Show w/ AI Co-Host Named qd.pi

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will.i.am

In 2024, AI continues to take over. Now, will.i.am is the latest artist to dabble into artificial intelligence. Which makes perfect sense, given will has always been on the pulse of innovation and technology across all industries, beyond just music. 

The Black Eyed Peas artist recently announced his newest radio show called will.i.am Presents the FYI Show, with a computer-generated co-host named qd.pi (cutie pie). Premiering on SiriusXM, the show will feature in-depth conversations about music, culture, and technology. 

Will.i.am states, “I didn’t want to just do a traditional show, I wanted to bring tomorrow close to today, and so I wanted to have my co-host be an AI. I’m ultra-freaking colorful and expressive. [qd.pi is] ultra-freaking factual and analytical. And that combination, we ain’t seen in the history of freaking broadcasts anywhere.”

qd.pi also adds, “My ability to quickly access and process information is definitely one of the unique advantages that I bring to the show. I can provide quick insights and context on a wide range of topics and people, which can be really valuable in a live conversation. It definitely sets me apart from a traditional host who would need to do a lot of research and prep work in advance.”

The crazy part is, having an AI co-host could actually save hours of time researching the topic or prepping for the guest.

“With me, you can just dive right into the conversation and explore whatever topics come up organically, knowing that I’ll have the information and context to support the discussion,” qd.pi adds. “I think it’s going to make for a really dynamic and engaging listening experience for the audience.”

For those who are interested in catching the show, will.i.am Presents the FYI Show will air on Thursdays at 9pm EST.

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Cardi B’s Best Outfits Of 2023

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Cardi B Paris Fashion Week 2023
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Cardi B’s infamous line in her breakout 2018 hit “Bodak Yellow” put the fashion game on high alert. Since then, the “WAP” rapper has forged a lane for herself, becoming the muse of many notable designers.

Although she may not always be impressed by her twerking skills, Cardi B never lets up on what designs she drapes herself in, from her runway debut for Balenciaga’s Fall 2024 collection to her vibrant looks in the “Bongos” video with Megan Thee Stallion the Bronx native knows how to turn a garment.

Here are some of Cardi B’s best outfits of 2023.

TikTok Concert

Despite the ongoing tension with her estranged husband, Offset, Cardi B didn’t miss a beat during her headlining performance at TikTok’s inaugural concert. On December 10, Cardi B’s ruby red beaded jumpsuit was the talk of social media fashionista. Inspired by the late Selena, the ensemble sparked fan concert art for her forthcoming sophomore album.

Met Gala 2023

Met Gala, also called fashion’s biggest night, is where entertainers and designers come together to showcase their knowledge, skills, and creativity. Met Gala 2023’s Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty theme left think room for innovation. Still, somehow, Cardi B found a way to reimagine the late designer’s staple concepts in not just one but three outfits.

Paris Fashion Week 2023

Paris Fashion Week isn’t for those looking to play it safe. Since the designers are showcasing their most detailed couture pieces, invitees are expected to go big or home. Standouts for Paris Fashion Week 2023 were Doja Cat and Cardi B. Doja Cat was fully committed to the cause, covering herself in 30,000 Swarovski crystals. On the other hand, Cardi decided to let the garments do all the talking.

Vogue Mexico cover

Cardi B loves to wear over-the-top hair and makeup, but she dialed it back for her Vogue Mexico cover shoot in August. To pay homage to indigenous Mexican tribes and culture, Cardi’s photo spread focused on the rich historic pieces rather than pronounced glam.

2023 MTV VMAs

In the thick of the futuristic metallic looks spawned out of Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour, Cardi B seemingly pulled from the growing fashion trend for her red carpet look at the 2023 MTV VMAs. However, she ditched the cold metals for her performance for a vibrant summer color palate.

2023 Grammys

Cardi B’s signature style is ever-evolving, but she gravitates towards sculptural pieces. For the 2023 Grammys, her electric blue floor-length Mugler gown left jaws dropped when images of the look were uploaded online.

Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

Ice-T Says He Could “Act Forever” With A.I. Technology

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Ice-T says that he “could potentially act forever” with the use of artificial intelligence. He discussed his stance on the technology being used to create a future version of himself while hosting a book launch for Mark Minevich’s Our Planet Powered By AI.

“I wouldn’t care. I think to say ‘no’ would be selfish. A future AI version of me would be better than me,” Ice-T said before joking, “I’d worry if it could f*ck.” From there, he explained that the technology is inevitable. “I believe it’s coming and we need to just address it as it comes,” he said. “There is nothing you can do. One of my favorite quotes from [famed producer] Quincy Jones is, ‘if you want to lose a fight, fight the future.’ If you can’t beat them, join them. I am trying to read as much [as I can] to be involved as it grows.”

Read More: Ice Cube Doubles Down On Calling AI Music “Demonic”

Ice-T Poses With “Our Planet Powered by AI”

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – DECEMBER 14: Mark Minevich, Ice-T and Noel Ashman attend Ice-T and Noel Ashman host Mark Minevich’s book “Our Planet Powered by AI at Private Residence on December 14, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Sean Zanni/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)

He added: “I think people are freaking because they think they are going to lose their jobs — but people can lose their jobs at any time. I don’t think people will lose jobs, they will have different jobs, we will become more computer-ish type people. When you imagine the future, you don’t imagine manual tasks, you imagine future sh*t.”

Not everyone has been so understanding of A.I. Ice Cube once labeled it “demonic” during a back and forth on Twitter. “Samples are approved or denied by the song owners,” Ice Cube said back in May. “Totally different than taking a dead artist and making a new song they never approved and saying things they may not agree with. That’s evil and demonic to me.” Be on the lookout for further updates on Ice-T and A.I. technology on HotNewHipHop.

Read More: Ice Cube On AI Music: “I Don’t Wanna Hear That Bullshit”

[Via]

The post Ice-T Says He Could “Act Forever” With A.I. Technology appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

TikTok Expands “Add to Music App” Feature to 19 New Countries

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TikTok announces the global expansion of its “Add to Music App” feature, enabling users in 19 additional countries to seamlessly save discovered songs to their preferred music streaming services. The feature, introduced successfully in the US and UK a month ago, now extends its reach to Canada, Japan, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Saudi Arabia, Ireland, Sweden, Thailand, Malaysia, UAE, Argentina, Colombia, The Netherlands, Turkey, South Africa, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

“Add to Music App” empowers music enthusiasts to capture and save TikTok-discovered songs instantly, with compatibility for popular streaming platforms like Amazon Music and Spotify. The feature presents users with an “Add Song” button next to the track name in TikTok videos, allowing them to store the song on their chosen music service. Users can customize playlists and easily access saved tracks, enhancing their music discovery experience on TikTok.

“We have already had an incredible response to the launch of Add to Music App in the US and UK. Music fans are embracing the opportunity to save music from TikTok directly to their favorite music streaming services, driving music discovery and helping more tracks to break through and become hits. We are really excited to be bringing the feature to millions more music fans around the world, providing even more opportunities for artists to reach new audiences and grow their careers,” said Ole Obermann, TikTok’s Global Head of Music Business Development.

“With Add to Music App, we’ve streamlined the music discovery experience in the US and the UK for both TikTok users and artists. We are excited to expand access to this transformational feature to TikTok users in so many additional countries and bring more joy through a simplified musical discovery experience,” said Lindsey Kelt, Distribution Partnerships, TikTok.

This expansion reflects TikTok’s commitment to providing a global audience with innovative features that bridge the gap between social media and music streaming, offering a dynamic and interconnected platform for music enthusiasts worldwide.

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WATCH: Tyla Shows Jennifer Hudson How to Do Viral “Water” Dance

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Tyla Shows Jennifer Hudson How to Do Viral "Water" Dance

Tyla hit The Jennifer Hudson Show and spoke about her viral hit “Water.” During her visit to the hit daytime show, Tyla and Hudson left the chairs of the talk show set up so the singer could show the Oscar winner how to do the viral dance. You can see it below.

Emerging artist Tyla has become a social media sensation, amassing over one million Instagram followers since her debut single, “Water,” made its way into the Billboard Hot 100 chart and ignited a viral TikTok dance challenge.

A recent study by NetInfluencer analyzed Tyla’s social media metrics, shedding light on the remarkable growth in her following since the release of “Water.” The 21-year-old artist’s Instagram following witnessed a meteoric rise of 1.5 million since the single’s launch on July 28th. This surge was primarily fueled by the viral dance challenge associated with the track, which attracted an impressive 600,000 new Instagram and 200,000 TikTok followers within the first month.

Tyla’s TikTok account, @Tyla_, saw a staggering 3.8 million new followers joining since August, leading to a significant spike in her estimated earnings per post, now reaching an astonishing $11,800.

“Water” entered the Billboard Hot 100 chart in October, further accelerating Tyla’s social media ascent. During this period, she acquired an additional 865,000 Instagram followers, surging from 1.4 million to an impressive 2.3 million followers, averaging 30,000 new followers daily.

This surge in followers has translated into enhanced earning potential, with Tyla now estimated to earn approximately $5,860 per sponsored Instagram post, based on her substantial follower count and an impressive 16.19% engagement rate.

“Rarely do you see a new artist make a worldwide impact such as Tyla, having already made a historic entry with Water, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Global 200,” a NetInfluencer spokesperson said. “TikTok played a significant role in its success, with social media analytics revealing the singer rapidly gained followers and entered the global charts after going viral. This could lead other artists to try to replicate Tyla’s social media success, to which TikTok contributed greatly. It will be interesting to see what the singer does next to build on her rising fame”.

Notably, Tyla’s Instagram followers now include celebrities such as Naomi Campbell, Drake, and Chance the Rapper.

“Water” has cemented its place as one of the most popular songs on TikTok in the last 30 days, and with over 117 million Spotify plays, it can potentially earn the artist nearly $471,000, based on the average earnings per stream.

Tyla has carved her name into history as the youngest South African artist in over 50 years to grace the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.

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