Timbaland is headed to the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
The Songwriters Hall of Fame has announced its latest inductees for the 2024 Induction and Awards Gala, honoring musical luminaries who have left an indelible mark on the industry. The esteemed list also includes Hillary Lindsey, Dean Pitchford, R.E.M. (Bill Berry, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Michael Stipe), and Steely Dan (Donald Fagen and Walter Becker).
These legendary songwriters boast an impressive catalog of hits, such as “Jesus Take The Wheel,” “Big Pimpin’,” “Footloose,” “Losing My Religion,” and “Reelin’ in the Years.” The star-studded gala is scheduled for Thursday, June 13th, at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City. Stay tuned for announcements on additional special award honorees.
“I’ve said it before, but the music industry does not exist without songwriters delivering great songs first. Without them there is no recorded music, no concert business, no merch . . . nothing, it all starts with the song and the songwriter,” said SHOF Chairman Nile Rodgers. “We are therefore very proud that we are continually recognizing some of the culturally most important songwriters of all time and that the 2024 slate represents not just iconic songs but also diversity and unity across genres, ethnicity and gender, songwriters who have enriched our lives and literally enriched music and the lives of billions of listeners all over the world.”
Founded in 1969, the Songwriters Hall of Fame (SHOF) plays a crucial role as a connecting link between the rich history and promising future of music. Within its hallowed halls, musical trailblazers are immortalized and honored, and the organization’s active engagement with the music community nurtures the emergence of the next generation of troubadours. Eligibility for induction is based on a songwriter’s substantial catalog of songs, making them eligible for consideration 20 years after the initial commercial release of a song.
Even Hit-Boy gets starstruck sometimes. The celebrated producer recently received a compliment that held special significance for him. And it came from none other than his hero, Timbaland. The 36-year-old hitmaker shared the heartwarming moment on social media, underscoring the impact of recognition from someone he looked up to. On Monday (January 1), Hit-Boy posted a video featuring his father, Big Hit, working out while one of his latest music videos with The Game played on a television screen in front of him. Moreoever, the video showcased a proud father supporting his son’s achievements in the music industry.
Notable figures in the hip-hop community, including DJ Premier, Meek Mill, and Paul Wall, joined the comments section to express their admiration for the father-son duo. However, what seemed to touch Hit-Boy the most was a compliment from Timbaland, a figure he considers a hero. Furthermore, in the screenshot shared on Twitter, Timbaland’s comment read: “This boy producing his asss offf putting out his dad the hardest shit ever!!!!!!!!” Hit-Boy reshared the comment, capturing the moment with the caption, “Nah I used to practice making beats as a teenager by biting Timbaland and all my other heroes so this hit different. I’m whaaaa.”
nah i used to practice making beats as a teenager by biting timbaland and all my other heroes so this hit different. i’m whaaaa pic.twitter.com/ifs9xXbUQc
The significance of Timbaland’s recognition lies in the fact that Hit-Boy acknowledges him as one of his early influences and mentors. Moreover, the admission that he used to practice making beats by studying Timbaland and other heroes adds a layer of nostalgia and authenticity to the moment. Furthermore, it highlights the impact that mentorship and inspiration can have on an artist’s journey.
This interaction not only showcases the supportive nature of the hip-hop community but also emphasizes the importance of acknowledgment from those who paved the way. In the dynamic world of music production, where influences play a crucial role, Timbaland’s praise becomes a powerful testament to the growth and success of Hit-Boy. However, it also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the hip-hop landscape across generations. What are your thoughts on this story? Let us know on HNHH!
On this day in 2001, Ludacris released his second full-length album, Word of Mouf. This LP was ridiculously successful, debuting at #3 on the Billboard 200 chart and selling 281,000 copies in the first week. It also received critical acclaim, being nominated for a Grammy for Best Hip Hop album (he lost to The Eminem Show). The album today is Ludacris’ top-selling album and is certified triple platinum-selling 3,674,000 copies in the United States.
His debut album, Back for the First Time, peaked at #4 on the Billboard 200 and served as a launching pad for the new sound that was refined on his Word of Mouth album. Containing hits like “Roll Out”, “Area Codes”, and “Move B****”, it is easy to see why Word Of Mouf got the attention it did. The production on this project, coming from the likes ofSwizz Beatz, Timbaland, and Jazzy Pha helped to set the tone of the early 2000s rap music.
Word Of Mouf as a whole embodied a lot of what southern rap was in the 2000s. There were club hits like “Move B****”, that could appropriately get any function jumping and there were introspective, soulful story-rich tracks such as “Growing Pains”. The spectrum of styles that this album provided suited a plethora of listeners. After this project, Ludacris finally reached a #1 album with Chicken and Beer and continued to grow into a household name in Hip Hop. Even today, Ludacris is a highly respected figure in rap and can still be heard every now and again on someone’s radio single as a strong feature. Take some time today to reminisce and listen to this project that helped shape a legend.
Timbaland is one of the most respected producers of all time. However, he did catch some heat for his recent comments about Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake’s old fling. The controversial comments came shortly after the pop singer released her tell-all memoir a few weeks ago. He publicly apologized on social media and things seem to have settled down.
On the flip side, his music career continues to go strong. He recently released a fun party banger with Anna Margo. “My Way” was an effortless mix of early 2000s and modern R&B. The only producer who can do that so effectively is Timbaland. Now, we know that this has the potential to be the lead single for his forthcoming album, Textbook Timbo.
This would be his first since his 2009 record, Shock Value II. He seems to be grabbing bubbling talent for this record. One of those is VITA, a singer with some effortless and smooth vocal chops. Timbaland is bringing another sonically rich dancefloor-ready banger, “Desire.” This one will make you want to grab your significant other to the middle of the club and dance the night away, up close and personal.
What are your initial thoughts on this brand-new single from Timbaland and VITA, “Desire?” Is this the better of the two tracks that Timbaland has put out as of late? What is your favorite beat that he has ever made? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Timbaland, as well as all of the best song drops.
Quotable Lyrics:
Front on me, yeah, ain’t about it, baby You ain’t givin’ nothin’ I need (Talk to mе, girl) I don’t believe you whеn you say that you’re a wild one ‘Cause you ain’t never make my love come down, baby Yeah, you know that it’s real when I say that I’m a wild one
In the early 2000s, Justin Timberlake emerged as a force of reinvention. His transition from the pop heartthrob of *NSYNC to a solo artist was marked by exploring new musical territories. This culminated in the 2006 release of FutureSex/LoveSounds. This album was not just a departure from his earlier work. It was a bold statement of artistic independence and showcased Timberlake’s versatility as a musician.
FutureSex/LoveSounds broke the mold of conventional pop and R&B. With this album, Timberlake stepped away from the boy-band image and embraced a more complex and mature sound. It was an audacious mix of futuristic beats, soulful melodies, and avant-garde production techniques that challenged the norms of mainstream music. Timberlake’s collaboration with producer Timbaland was crucial in crafting this distinctive sound. It would influence the direction of pop music in the years to follow.
FutureSex/LoveSounds: A Fusion Of Genres
Justin Timberlake’s FutureSex/LoveSounds was a groundbreaking album in its production and eclectic blend of musical styles. The album ventured beyond the boundaries of traditional pop and R&B. It Infused elements of funk, electronic, and even touches of rock. This genre-blending created a sound that was both fresh and unmistakably Timberlake’s own.
The album’s lead single, “SexyBack,” epitomized this new direction. With its pulsating bass and Timberlake’s confident vocals, the track became a defining anthem of the era, signaling a new phase in his career. Other standout tracks like “My Love,” featuring T.I., and “What Goes Around…Comes Around” showcased Timberlake’s talent for crafting emotionally resonant and rhythmically engaging songs.
Timberlake’s collaboration with producer Timbaland was instrumental in shaping the sound of FutureSex/LoveSounds. Their synergy resulted in a body of work that was innovative yet accessible. It pushed the envelope of mainstream music while retaining a strong commercial appeal. This partnership, marked by creative risk-taking and mutual respect, led to an album that resonated with fans and critics alike.
Chart Success & Critical Acclaim
Upon its release, FutureSex/LoveSounds catapulted Justin Timberlake to new heights of success. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, clearly indicating its immediate impact. It resonated with a wide audience, boasting impressive sales and cementing Timberlake’s status as a leading figure in contemporary pop music. The success of FutureSex/LoveSounds was not just in its numbers. It was in its ability to captivate listeners from across the musical spectrum.
Critically, the album was hailed as a landmark in pop and R&B. Reviewers praised Timberlake for his bold artistic choices and the seamless integration of various musical styles. Tracks like “SexyBack” and “My Love” were commended for their innovative soundscapes. “What Goes Around…Comes Around” was further noted for its storytelling and emotional depth. Timberlake’s collaboration with Timbaland was particularly lauded, with many recognizing it as a perfect pairing of artist and producer.
FutureSex/LoveSounds also showcased Timberlake’s evolution as an artist and influenced the direction of pop music. It opened doors for more experimental sounds in mainstream music. Further, it also set a new standard for what a pop album could be.
Enduring Influence Of FutureSex/LoveSounds
The legacy of Justin Timberlake’s FutureSex/LoveSounds extends far beyond its initial release. The album’s innovative approach to music production and genre fusion set a new bar. It Inspired a generation of artists to push the boundaries of their creative expression. Timberlake’s venture into uncharted musical territory with FutureSex/LoveSounds paved the way for a more experimental and eclectic approach in mainstream pop music.
The album’s impact is also evident in the evolution of pop music production. The unique blend of electronic beats, intricate harmonies, and layered vocals that characterized FutureSex/LoveSounds has been mirrored in the work of many following artists. Moreover, Timberlake’s collaboration with Timbaland on the album is often cited as a benchmark for artistic synergy.
Timbaland is facing a backlash as his past is currently getting dug up by fans. The well-known producer recently commented about Britney Spears during a recent Q&A session in response to a fan’s question about Britney’s recent memoir. Timbaland stirred controversy by suggesting that Justin Timberlake should “put a muzzle” on Spears. ‘Gotta Put A […]
A few months ago, producing extraordinaire, Timbalandmade some controversial comments during a recent interview. The misogynistic-like statement was given during a live interview with 9th Wonder at the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. It took place right before the end of October. What led to putting himself into hot water was that someone asked about the revived buzz around “Cry Me a River.” This is according to Billboard.
This popular song, of course, was produced by Timbaland and landed on Justin Timberlake’s 2002 album, Justified. The renewed talk is due in part because of Britney Spears’ memoir, The Woman in Me. It came out before the interview happened. Timberlake’s album is widely viewed as a response to his splitting with the pop star after dating from 1999-2002. That is when Timbaland made the comment, “She going crazy, right? I wanted to call and say, ‘JT, you gotta put a muzzle on that girl.’” It went viral on social media and after all the backlash, Timbaland decided to issue an apology.
Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake during Super Bowl XXXVI – Britney Spears & Justin Timberlake Host Super Bowl Fundraiser at Planet Hollywood Times Square at Planet Hollywood Times Square in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Denise Truscello/WireImage)
According to Fader, this was his apology. He says, “I’m sorry to all the Britney fans, even to her. I’m sorry because muzzle was—no, you have a voice. You speak what you want to speak. Who am I to tell you what not to speak?” Timbaland continues, “And I was wrong for saying that. I was looking at it from a different lens and what I am is a reconcile person. I’m not a person who takes sides… I apologize to the Britney fans and her.” The reason for him using “muzzle” is because of some serious and personal issues that Britney wanted to reveal to the readers. That includes going through an abortion and more.
What are your initial thoughts on Timbaland apologizing for his comments about Britney Spears? Do you think it will be a situation where he moves on fairly unscathed? Will Britney Spears respond to the producer’s comment, or move on from it? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest breaking news around Timbaland and Britney Spears, as well as everything else going on in the pop culture world.
The comment was originally made during Timbaland’s appearance at the Afrotech Conference in Austin, Texas, but quickly picked up steam online. Given that he had collaborated with Timberlake in the past, especially on songs like “Cry Me A River,” someone in the audience asked what he had thought about the headlines surrounding Spears’ recently-released memoir.
“I wanted to call JT and say, ‘Man! You gotta put a muzzle on that girl,’” Timbaland responded.
Many online were quick to call out his misogyny, his history with the late Aaliyah, and the fact that Spears reportedly didn’t want to work with him several years ago.
As for her memoir, Spears didn’t hold back on Timberlake. She revealed that she had an abortion during their relationship, claimed that he cheated on her, and gave her thoughts about how she seemed to have been portrayed using a lookalike in the “Cry Me A River” video.
Check out Timbaland’s apology about his Britney Spears comment above.
Hip-hop has had a misogyny problem almost as long as it has been around. And yes, it’s a reflection of the larger society around it, but it’s easier to see it when everyone in the genre has a microphone and a platform from which to blast some of their most wrongheaded ideas.
In recent years, plenty has improved. More women than ever are charting and making their voices heard, and many more overt examples of sexism are being called out. That’s what happened when Timbaland, the veteran super producer responsible for some of pop music’s biggest hits, overstepped his bounds as he addressed Britney Spears’ recent tell-all memoir.
During an onstage discussion at the Afrotech Conference in Austin, Texas this past weekend, Timbaland was asked by an attendee if he’d seen the headlines coming out about the book, especially in reference to his “Cry Me A River” collaborator Justin Timberlake. In response, Tim joked, “I wanted to call JT and say, ‘Man! You gotta put a muzzle on that girl.’”
Timbaland says Justin Timberlake should have put a “muzzle” on Britney Spears, following the release of her memoir:
“I wanted to call JT and say ‘Man! You should have put a muzzle on that girl.’”
While the crowd in attendance laughed — because, again, the society around us is still rooted in sexism — fans online didn’t appreciate his comment, calling him out in replies to viral reposts of the video of the response.
“Timbaland is the one who needs a muzzle,” wrote one fan. “We didn’t forget about his gross Aaliyah comments. He’s still upset Britney didn’t want to work with him. A nasty man.”
Timbaland is the one who needs a muzzle. We didn’t forget about his gross Aaliyah comments. He’s still upset Britney didn’t want to work with him. A nasty man.
she has been silent for long enough. yall expect women to stay silent and accept all the terrible things you do. it’s time to wake up and realize nobody cares about protecting you. https://t.co/ldjabpJy8d
We don’t talk about the time Jay-Z had an intervention to put a muzzle on Timbaland because he was addicted to painkillers consistently talking crazy. Since he wants to talk about reckless behavior, lets start there… https://t.co/9ZFKSfpegU
To say the world has missed Keri Hilson would be quite an understatement. Even though she’s left a mark on the industry, it’s been over a decade since she released her second album, No Boys Allowed, in 2010. With hits like “Turnin Me On” and “Knock You Down” in her repertoire, Keri Hilson was one of the names that dominated the late 2000s R&B space. Since then, she’s been largely absent from the scene, save for a few features and a moderate acting career.
However, the return of Keri Hilson seems imminent. In a new interview with Tani and J. Valentine on the R&B Money podcast, the singer has pretty much assured the fans that a new album is coming. She has also promised that her new music “answers questions,” alluding to her long break away. There’s no confirmed date yet, but while we await the return of Keri Hilson, a.k.a. Ms. Keri Baby, it’s always worth revisiting some of her major hits.
After what felt like an eternity away from the spotlight, Keri Hilson re-emerged in 2020. However, her brief return to music came as a featured act on Stonebwoy’s track “Nominate.” The Ghanaian singer enlisted Hilson for a groovy, Afro-pop dance number. While the track failed to dominate the American markets, it became a huge hit in Africa, especially Ghana and Nigeria. Keri Hilson floated on the Afrobeat song quite effortlessly, and even appeared in the music video. Moreover, with the track, she proved that she still has the musical chops, no matter how much time away she takes.
After rising to fame with dance and pop hits, Keri Hilson opted for a sound that felt much more authentic to her. The result of this evolution was “Turnin Me On,” a distinct R&B track featuring Lil Wayne. Hilson brought an edge and swagger missing from her previous releases, earning praise for her confident sound. While chatting with The Grape Juice in 2008, she shared that the single was a “conscious effort to make sure that I stay close to home on some records.”
“Energy” (2008)
“Energy” was Keri Hilson’s debut single, quickly assuring the world of her incoming solo stardom. While she had begun to garner significant buzz after the success of “The Way I Are,” “Energy” showed that the artist could stand on her own. Overall, the single talks about an overwhelming and consuming toxic love that is causing the singer to reconsider her priorities. The chorus is a standout of the single and shows Hilson’s vocal chops quite well. “Energy” wasn’t a major success on the charts, but is still regarded as one of her signature songs. Fans and critics also praised the R&B ballad for its emotive style and lyrical vulnerability.
Keri Hilson lent her lush vocals to the 2010 single “Got Your Back.” The track by T.I. enjoyed a lot of airplay upon release, becoming one of the most popular summer tracks of the year. It also served to appreciate the women supporting their partners through it all. Hilson’s presence on the track, although brief, brought some much-needed color to the Hip Hop track.
In 2009, Keri Hilson released “Knock You Down” as the fourth single from her debut album, In a Perfect World…. The song, one of her most recognizable tracks, features Ne-Yo and Kanye West. Evidently, this trio of stars came prepared, as the song became a huge commercial hit upon release. Lyrically, “Knock You Down” is about how love can sweep you off your feet. The relatability in the lyrics also led to its widespread appeal. While critics were divisive about the song, the public thoroughly enjoyed the track. It peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, and has since been certified 2x platinum.
“The Way I Are” – Timbaland feat. Keri Hilson & D.O.E. (2007)
Upon release, “The Way I Are” took over the radio, not just in America but worldwide. The electropop dance track by Timbaland featured Keri Hilson in her first mainstream appearance. Hilson’s light and sensual vocals on the track were especially lauded. The single eventually peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. However, in Europe, it became a monster hit, topping the charts in the UK, Scotland, and Ireland, among others. Furthermore, it topped the Canadian and Australian charts. Overall, “The Way I Are” is the biggest single in Keri Hilson’s career so far, but maybe her return to music could spell another monster hit.
“Pretty Girl Rock” (2010)
Easily her signature song, Keri Hilson achieved considerable success following the release of “Pretty Girl Rock.” Beyond the song itself, its music video was lauded for paying homage to icons before her, including Janet Jackson and TLC. Overall, “Pretty Girl Rock” is a song about girl power and self-love. It is also one of the most recognized hits of the late ’90s and a serious nostalgia-inducer, whether or not you’re a fan of Keri Hilson. The single peaked at No. 24 on the Billboard Hot 100 but has remained a timeless track in Hilson’s discography. “Pretty Girl Rock” has also been certified platinum for over a million sales.
(@Ayo__Lawal) 
❥𝕾𝖙𝖆𝖓✰ᵇᵘⁿⁿʸ✰ (@Suvarna_17) 
(@lovesickseba) 
(@oasisraindrops)