A pandemic-era favorite is making a comeback. Today (June 19), super-producers Swizz Beatz and Timbaland announced that Verzuz will make a return via a partnership with X (formerly Twitter).
The news arrives months after Tim and Swizz purchased Verzuz from previous partner Triller, now owning 100 percent of the Verzuz platform, while retaining their equity from their time with Triller. As a result, X will now have distribution rights to Verzuz, which will now broadcast on the platform that has over 550 million users.
“We are beyond thrilled to have found the best partner for Verzuz,” said Swizz in a statement. “Not only are we excited to have Verzuz on X, we’re excited to help X build the biggest entertainment company in the world. I would like to thank Elon Musk, Linda Yaccarino, Brett Weitz, Mitchell Smith and the entire X team for believing in the Verzuz vision. We can’t wait to get to work.”
Verzuz has seen several hip-hop and R&B artists — like Brandy and Monica, Nelly and Ludacris, Gucci Mane and Jeezy, and more — duel off, playing hit-for-hit within their discography. Verzuz has produced over 40 episodes, generating 100 million-plus live views and over 70 billion impressions.
At the time of writing, no new Verzuz face-offs have been announced, but we imagine Tim and Swizz have some exciting competitions in the pipeline.
“We are thrilled to partner with X, the most innovative platform globally,” said Timbaland in a statement. “Our goal has always been to bring Verzuz to the world which we can now do bigger than ever.”
Making a monumental power move, VERZUZ—the online award-winning, multi-media platform launched by Swizz Beatz and Timbaland—has cemented an exclusive partnership with X for distribution. Swizz and Timbaland personally broke the news at an activation in Cannes, France today.
Earlier this year, Swizz and Timbaland reacquired VERZUZ from previous partner Triller, now owning 100% of the platform, while retaining their equity (along with the artists who participated in VERZUZ) in Triller. Upon resuming complete control, they sought out the perfect channel for independent distribution.
The partnership journey with X has now begun!
Together, the companies orchestrated a mutually beneficial alliance where Swizz and Timbaland maintain their full ownership and creative control, while X receives exclusive distribution rights. As a result, VERZUZ will now broadcast to an audience of over 550 million active users, exponentially expanding its viewership and international reach like never before. Since the inception of VERZUZ, the conversations around each VERZUZ naturally evolved on X from fans and enthusiasts alike. Viewers will now be able to watch for FREE exclusively on X, bringing the visual series, and viral conversation, all to one platform! Stay tuned for the announcement of the next VERZUZ matchup coming soon.
About this chapter, Swizz stated, “We are beyond thrilled to have found the best partner for Verzuz. Not only are we excited to have Verzuz on X, we’re excited to help X build the biggest entertainment company in the world. I would like to thank Elon Musk, Linda Yaccarino, Brett Weitz, Mitchell Smith and the entire X team for believing in the Verzuz vision. We can’t wait to get to work.”
Timbalandadded, “We are thrilled to partner with X, the most innovative platform globally. Our goal has always been to bring Verzuz to the world which we can now do bigger than ever.”
As they have since the first VERZUZ, the founders uplift the culture and community into the spotlight in the center of the world’s stage. However, they preserve the same grit, honor, authenticity, and integrity that makes hip-hop, rap, R&B, soul and ALL genres of music so special. They have the opportunity to magnify its resonance, thanks to Elon Musk, Linda Yaccarino, CEO of X, and the entire X team championing their unfiltered voices.
Linda Yaccarino stated, “X is so proud to partner with trailblazing creators, artists, and entrepreneurs Swizz Beatz & Timbaland. Our platform stands at the forefront of innovation, and Verzuz defines the essence of an innovative content experience. As we continue to work with the most exciting voices to bring premium content to X, there is no better fit than this series. Together we will redefine how consumers engage with their favorite entertainment, one Verzuz at a time.”
VERZUZ has partnered with Uncontained Media, led by Christian Sarabia, and Raymond Garcia. Together, they have produced multiple hit shows including Emmy Winner DRIVE WITH SWIZZ BEATZ and will serve as the production company and Executive Producers of VERZUZ.
The influence and impact of VERZUZ has proven to be undeniable. So far, it has produced over 40 episodes, generating 100 million-plus live views and over 70 billion impressions. It has naturally encompassed other verticals with VERZUZ SPORTS, and VERZUZ COMEDY, all which play well to some of the most highly engaged communities on X. Not to mention, the power of the #VERZUZEFFECT cannot be overstated. Every artist that has participated in a VERZUZ have seen dramatic increases in streaming, ticket sales, merchandise, and overall revenue from just one appearance.
You are not going to find too many more talented producers than Timbaland. His ability to create undeniable grooves or just straight bangers in nearly unmatched and its why he is built such an iconic career. On top of that, he was worked with almost every hip-hop/R&B star you can think of. However, he does not pigeonhole himself to only teaming up with the biggest names. The Virginia native is always showing the rising stars in the industry love, as well as giving each artist his best stuff time and time again. That is the case on Timbaland’s newest single “CH3RRY”.
This time around the hitmaker extraordinaire is linking with newcomer N3WYRKLA, an R&B singer with one heck of an attitude. At least that is the case on “CH3RRY”, as the vocalist is putting Gen Z men on blast for being soft. In addition to her bold claims, she is also fed up with the games these same guys are playing, as her career is taking centerstage in her life. If the name N3WYRKLA sounds familiar, that is because she was featured on Brent Faiyaz’s most recent album, Larger Than Life. Even though she has a smaller following, N3WYRKLA is quickly rising up the totem pole due to her co-signs from two of the biggest names. As for Timbaland, this just proves once again that he is still on top of his game. That is especially true in 2024, as he scored some production credits on Kanye’s VULTURES 1.
I’m the cherry on top You just mad my cherry you ain’t pop N****s be mad as f*** they ain’t f*** Well f*** you buddy I got bad news for ya New gen n****s they be mad odee
The 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame 53rd Annual Induction and Awards Dinner dazzled New York City with a celebration honoring the masterful minds behind some of the most iconic songs. The event, opened by SHOF Board Member and Show Committee Chair Evan Lamberg, recognized the immeasurable impact of legendary songwriters.
Musical icons Hillary Lindsey, Timothy Mosley (Timbaland), Dean Pitchford, Bill Berry, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Michael Stipe (R.E.M.), along with Walter Becker and Donald Fagan (Steely Dan), were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Multi-award-winner Diane Warren received the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award, and 4-time Grammy winner SZA was honored with the Hal David Starlight Award. The evening also posthumously inducted legendary country songwriter Cindy Walker in a special tribute.
The night began with a special performance of Irene Cara’s “Fame,” performed by the 2024 Abe Olman Scholarship recipients. Grammy winner Deniece Williams then inducted Dean Pitchford, performing her hit “Let’s Hear It for the Boy,” followed by The Bacon Brothers’ electrifying performance of “Footloose.” Dean concluded his induction with an emotional rendition of “Once Before I Go.”
Irving Azoff honored Steely Dan, calling them “among the best bands ever.” Trey Anastasio of Phish performed a medley of Steely Dan hits, culminating in the induction of Donald Fagan and Walter Becker. Nile Rodgers then honored SZA with the Hal David Starlight Award, followed by her intimate performance of “Snooze.”
Country superstar Carrie Underwood inducted Hillary Lindsey with a powerful performance of “Jesus Take the Wheel,” joined by Keith Urban for a duet of “Blue Ain’t Your Color.” Missy Elliot inducted Timbaland, crediting him with “changing the cadence of hip-hop.” Timbaland then energized the room with a medley of his hits.
Jason Isbell inducted R.E.M., performing “It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine).” The band reunited for the first time in 15 years, playing “Losing My Religion.”
The evening concluded with Diane Warren receiving the Johnny Mercer Award, presented by Paul Williams. Andra Day performed Warren’s Oscar-nominated song “Stand Up for Something.” Diane Warren expressed her passion for songwriting, followed by El Debarge closing the night with “Rhythm of the Night,” celebrating its 40th anniversary.
The Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Dinner remains a spectacular celebration of the art of songwriting, honoring those who have shaped the soundtrack of our lives.
Cardi B said she isn’t dropping an album this year. Atlantic Records said, “ha ha, that’s cute. Yes you are.”
In case you missed it, while interacting with fans online, Cardi revealed she agreed with a fan who stated she should pull back from social media platforms due to feeling “unappreciated” for online interactions.
Then she dropped the reveal: “Anyway NO album this year I don’t care I’m relaxing this year .. Dropping these features I already committed to and traveling and enjoying my summer.”
After a new Rolling Stone cover story hit online, Atlantic Records shared their own message: “Cardi B’s upcoming album is one of the most anticipated this year. We can’t wait put it out, even if we have to sneak into her studio and take it! ”
Cardi B’s upcoming album is one of the most anticipated this year. We can’t wait put it out, even if we have to sneak into her studio and take it! https://t.co/VQXTut0OWM
— Atlantic Records (@AtlanticRecords) May 16, 2024
Cardi’s last single, “Enough (Miami),” cracked into the top 10 at No. 9. The record, which fans have been anticipating to hear new music from the Bronx emcee, marked Cardi’s 12th entry into the Top 10. The single scored nearly 15 million streams and 8.8 million radio audience impressions.
If you were looking for Cardi B’s album this summer, stop looking. Cardi announced her 2024 plans and new music is not part of them.
Interacting with fans online, Cardi revealed she agreed with a fan who stated she should pull back from social media platforms due to feeling “unappreciated” for online interactions.
Then she dropped the reveal: “Anyway NO album this year I don’t care I’m relaxing this year .. Dropping these features I already committed to and traveling and enjoying my summer.”
Just as a note, Invasion of Privacy dropped in 2018. You can see Cardi’s messages below courtesy of Hip-HopDX.
Last month, Missy Elliott encouraged Cardi B to let her album fly. Hitting X, Missy also encouraged Cardi to experiment as Bardi said she was nervous but trusting her ears.
“Yeup!!! I’m a little nervous… but I don’t care! I’m liking doing things that my ears want to listen to and reflecting the moods I been in. It feels good,” she said.
Yeup!!! I’m a little nervous… but I don’t care! I’m liking doing things that my ears want to listen to and reflecting the moods I been in. It feels good https://t.co/biXOySSnac
Cardi’s last single, “Enough (Miami),” cracked into the top 10 at No. 9. The record, which fans have been anticipating to hear new music from the Bronx emcee, marked Cardi’s 12th entry into the Top 10. The single scored nearly 15 million streams and 8.8 million radio audience impressions.
Wendy Williams, known for her boldness in addressing controversial topics, found herself at the center of a storm when she took on the production of the Lifetime movie “Aaliyah: The Princess of R & B” in 2014. Chronicling the life and journey of the late singer Aaliyah, the biopic aimed to shed light on the iconic artist’s rise to superstardom, her relationships with industry figures like R. Kelly, Missy Elliot, and Timbaland.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Williams defended her involvement in the project, emphasizing the importance of accurately portraying Aaliyah’s story. Despite her awareness of potential controversy, Williams believed the film would do justice to Aaliyah’s legacy and satisfy the curiosity of fans eager for insight into the singer’s life.
However, the movie faced significant criticism both before and after its release. Aaliyah’s family vehemently opposed the project, refusing to grant permission for the use of her original songs. Fans and celebrities alike expressed dissatisfaction with various aspects of the biopic, from its depiction of Aaliyah’s relationship with R. Kelly to concerns about casting choices.
Zendaya, initially cast as Aaliyah, withdrew from the project due to doubts about its quality, leading to her replacement by Alexandra Shipp. Timbaland, a close friend of Aaliyah, refused to watch the biopic and warned Williams to brace herself for the backlash it would inevitably bring.
Despite the negative feedback, Williams remained steadfast in her belief that the project honored Aaliyah’s legacy. She emphasized that the biopic was inspired by a book focusing on Aaliyah’s life rather than her tragic death, aiming to present a balanced portrayal while respecting the family’s sensitivities.
Ultimately, the controversy surrounding the biopic did not deter viewership, with 3.2 million tuning in to watch, making it the second-highest-rated television film of 2014.
Missy Elliott is encouraging Cardi B to let her album fire. Hitting X, Missy encourages Cardi to experiment, revealing Bardi is nervous but trusting her ears.
“Yeup!!! I’m a little nervous… but I don’t care! I’m liking doing things that my ears want to listen to and reflecting the moods I been in. It feels good,” she said.
Yeup!!! I’m a little nervous… but I don’t care! I’m liking doing things that my ears want to listen to and reflecting the moods I been in. It feels good https://t.co/biXOySSnac
Earlier this year, Missy Elliott unveiled her history-making debut headline tour, OUT OF THIS WORLD — The Missy Elliott Experience.
The tour, featuring Hip-Hop legend Busta Rhymes, multi-Platinum-selling superstar Ciara, and mega-producer Timbaland, marks a milestone in Elliott’s groundbreaking career.
“This is an incredible time in my life as I am experiencing so many milestone ‘firsts.’ Being the FIRST female Hip Hop artist to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and now going out on my FIRST headline tour,” shares Elliott. “Fans have been asking me to tour forever but I wanted to wait until I felt the time was right because I knew if I was ever going to do it, I had to do it big, and I had to do it with family! So get ready to be taken OUT OF THIS WORLD with me, Busta Rhymes, Ciara, and Timbaland! We can’t wait to share this experience with the fans!”
Produced by Live Nation in association with Mona Scott-Young of Monami Entertainment, the 24-city run will kick off on July 4 at Rogers Arena in Vancouver. It will then traverse North America, stopping in Los Angeles, Atlanta, Brooklyn, and more, concluding on August 22 at Allstate Arena in Rosemont.
In true Missy Elliott fashion, the tour announcement was accompanied by an OUT OF THIS WORLD visual spectacle crafted by her longtime collaborators, including director Dave Meyers, stylist June Ambrose, and creative director Hi-Hat.
Tickets for the tour will be available through various presales starting April 9, with general on-sale beginning April 12 at 10 a.m. local time on Missy-Elliott.com. Verizon customers will have exclusive access to a presale through Verizon Up, while VIP packages offering premium tickets and fan activations will be available via vipnation.com.
In Cardi’s world, “Enough (Miami)” cracked into the top 10 at No. 9. The record, which fans have been anticipating to hear new music from the Bronx emcee, marked Cardi’s 12th entry into the Top 10. The single scored nearly 15 million streams and 8.8 million radio audience impressions.
Missy Elliott recently announced her new Out Of This World — The Missy Elliott Experience tour, which will kick off in July. As she plays shows across North America, she’ll be joined by Timbaland, Ciara, and Busta Rhymes as support — making it one not to miss, especially for hardcore fans.
For those looking to catch one of her upcoming concerts, here’s what to know about getting tickets.
How To Buy Tickets For Missy Elliott’s Out Of This World Tour
A pre-sale for Missy Elliott’s next tour will open for Verizon users today, April 9, along with other early access chances for fans throughout the week — including an artist one on Thursday, April 11. On Friday, April 12 at 10 a.m. local time, tickets will then be available for the general public to purchase them.
Continue scrolling for a complete list of dates. Additional information can be found through Elliott’s website.
Missy Elliott 2024 Tour Dates: Out Of This World
07/04 — Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena
07/06 — Seattle, WA @ Climate Pledge Arena
07/09 — Oakland, CA @ Oakland Arena
07/11 — Los Angeles, CA @ Crypto.com Arena
07/13 — Las Vegas, NV @ T-Mobile Arena
07/16 — Denver, CO @ Ball Arena
07/18 — Austin, TX @ Moody Center
07/20 — Houston, TX @ Toyota Center
07/21 — Fort Worth, TX @ Dickies Arena
07/24 — Tampa, FL @ Amalie Arena
07/25 — Sunrise, FL @ Amerant Bank Arena
07/27 — Atlanta, GA @ State Farm Arena
08/01 — Baltimore, MD @ CFG Bank Arena
08/02 — Hampton, VA @ Hampton Coliseum
08/03 — Belmont Park, NY @ UBS Arena
08/05 — Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center
08/08 — Washington, DC @ Capital One Arena
08/09 — Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center
08/10 — Boston, MA @ TD Garden
08/12 — Brooklyn, NY @ Barclays Center
08/15 — Detroit, MI @ Little Caesars Arena
08/17 — Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre
08/19 — Toronto, ON @ Scotiabank Arena
08/22 — Rosemont, IL @ Allstate Arena
Missy Elliott is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
Missy Elliott is returning to the road and leaving the Earth with her new tour, Out Of This World — The Missy Elliott Experience. The tour begins on July 4 in Vancouver, BC, in Canada, and features openers Busta Rhymes, Ciara, and Timbaland. It’ll be Missy’s first headlining tour in the US in nearly 20 years. The groundbreaking Virginia rap pioneer was recently inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, and soon, fans across the United States can see why in person.
When Do Missy Elliott’s Out Of This World Tour Tickets Go On Sale?
A presale for Verizon subscribers begins Tuesday, April 9, with additional presales throughout the week. The general sale starts on Friday, April 12, at 10 am local time. You can get more information at missy-elliott.com. See below for the full tour dates.
7/4 — Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena
7/6 — Seattle, WA @ Climate Pledge Arena
7/9 — Oakland, CA @ Oakland Arena
7/11 — Los Angeles, CA @ Crypto.com Arena
7/13 — Las Vegas, NV @ T-Mobile Arena
7/16 — Denver, CO @ Ball Arena
7/18 — Austin, TX @ Moody Center
7/20 — Houston, TX @ Toyota Center
7/21 — Fort Worth, TX @ Dickies Arena
7/24 — Tampa, FL @ Amalie Arena
7/25 — Sunrise, FL @ Amerant Bank Arena
7/27 — Atlanta, GA @ State Farm Arena
8/1 — Baltimore, MD @ CFG Bank Arena
8/2 — Hampton, VA @ Hampton Coliseum
8/3 — Belmont Park, NY @ UBS Arena
8/5 — Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center
8/8 — Washington, DC @ Capital One Arena
8/9 — Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center
8/10 — Boston, MA @ TD Garden
8/12 — Brooklyn, NY @ Barclays Center
8/15 — Detroit, MI @ Little Caesars Arena
8/17 — Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre
8/19 — Toronto, ON @ Scotiabank Arena
8/22 — Rosemont, IL @ Allstate Arena
Missy Elliott is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
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