Swizz Beatz riled Verzuz fans up on Thursday (Nov. 7) with an Instagram preview of its return in 2025. The super producer shared a video of a new hoodie tagged with the Verzuz account, captioned “2025 Loading…” The teaser follows the brand’s announcement of its partnership with X, formerly Twitter, over the summer. Founded by Swizz and Timbaland in 2020, Verzuz became a huge success during the pandemic with viral clashes by the biggest names in music, including Rick Ross, Ne-Yo, Babyface, and more.
After a high-profile lawsuit against Triller over contract disputes, the brand announced a new distribution partnership with X on June 20. Triller and Verzuz settled in 2022, but the superproducers filed another lawsuit in 2024, alleging Triller failed to honor the agreement. Verzuz’s new deal reveals that the relaunch will be exclusively distributed on X. After announcing a hiatus in 2022, Swizz Beatz and Timbaland shared that they are “beyond excited” about working with the social media platform. “Beyond thrilled to have found the best partner for Verzuz,” they wrote in an official statement.
Elon Musk‘s involvement in the new distribution deal has received mixed reviews on social media. Swizz Beatz addressed the backlash immediately after the announcement, assuring fans that the production value would be preserved. “We will show you better than tell you,” Swizzy wrote in an Instagram post about the new deal in June. Verzuz’s legal battle with former partner Triller remains unresolved in 2024.
A lineup for the relaunch has yet to be announced. In June, Timbaland mentioned taking the match-up worldwide and explained, “Our goal has always been to bring Verzuz to the world which we can now do bigger than ever.” Are you ready for Verzuz’s return? Which dream matches do you want to see in the relaunch? Any rematches? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.
We closed out last week with Part 1 of pop culture moments that would be excellent episodes of The Boondocks, and we’re back with Part II. If you haven’t already checked out 1-25, we recommend you look that over. The Boondocks ran for four seasons beforecalling it quits in 2014, and fans have impatiently waited for an update on a revival. However, plans of a reboot seem to be thwarted for the time being, and we’re left with imaginging which moments in pop culture, internet, and Hip Hop history the Boondocks writers would take on. Here are a few ideas for the second half of this Boondocks series; as stated in Part 1, we know this list doesn’t include all that has happened in the last 10 years. These are just a handful of moments we believe The Boondocks would highlight effortlessly.
Read through 26-50 below and let us know what other events The Boondocks needs to spotlight if (*crosses fingers* when?) it returns.
26. Rihanna & A$AP Rocky’s Growing Family
After confirming their romance in 2021, Rihanna and A$AP Rocky apparently got to work. The longtime friends surprised their fans with news of their union, which was praised among their peers. In January 2022, they announced that they were pregnant with their first child, RZA. Then, during her epic Super Bowl Halftime performance, Rihanna revealed a baby bump, showing that the megastar singer and her equally famous beau were expecting again. The couple’s son, Riot, arrived in August 2023. Rihanna has endured quite a bit pertaining to her relationships in the industry, so this Hip Hop family should definitely be highlighted on The Boondocks.
27. The Unraveling Of Kanye West
Whew…Kanye West has had quite a ride during his time in the industry. From his breakout hit being about his near-death car crash, to his infamous line about George Bush, to his romances with the likes of Kim Kardashian and Amber Rose, Ye has been at the epicenter of controversy. However, it may be his more recent antics that would find a hot spot on The Boondocks. The accusations of anti-Semitism continue to haunt him, as do his social media rants and unraveling moments. Whether it’s his secretive Wyoming ranch or his bid for President of the United States, Kanye West’s longstanding career is ripe with Boondocks material. They should break it down into several episodes, the way they tackled Debra Lee and BET.
Which would you choose? This question appeared on social media, garnering thousands of responses across platforms. Some believed they could eventually be more profitable if they sat with the Roc Nation mogul and picked his brain over a meal. Yet, others wanted the immediate cash, thinking that would be more helpful to their circumstances than a conversation. Hov weighed in on the viral question, telling the public to take the money. It could be interesting to see this episode with Riley and if he would choose the stacks or the wisdom.
29. Tyler Perry’s Bid For BET
The relationship between The Boondocks and Tyler Perry is tense. The beloved series has already featured an episode centered around Perry and his stage plays, where Granddad gets cast to be Madea’s love interest. The Boondocks crew didn’t hold back in going in on Perry, and it has become one of the most remembered episodes in the series. Considering how The Boondocks presented BET as being poisonous to Black culture and the rumors that Perry wanted to purchase the network, this is prime material.
30. Katt Williams’s Club Shay Shay Interview
Some have said the wild ride 2024 has become is all thanks to Katt Williams kicking off the year with a bang. The comedian sat down with Shannon Sharpe for one of the most discussed and memed interviews of the year. Williams never bites his tongue—that could be in his standup routines or a serious conversation. During his interview, he called out his peers and revealed insights about Hollywood’s dark side, and some believe he predicted the unfolding of several of our industry icons. Meanwhile, Katt isn’t a stranger to The Boondocks. He voiced the character of A Pimp Named Slick Back, who appeared in several hilarious episodes.
31. Becoming TikTok Famous
The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic sent the entire world into a frenzy. Businesses didn’t just close; some owners had to permanently shut their doors because they couldn’t recover from the losses. Yet, others found new income by hopping on TikTok. It wasn’t just about keeping businesses open; tens of millions of people flooded the platform with silly videos, deep conversations, and personal revelations to connect with the outside world. TikTok has launched the careers of some of today’s biggest pop culture stars, and its popularity is only increasing. The Boondocks could have fun with this one, with Huey and Riley potentially taking to the platform to push their views.
It came as a surprise when DaBaby and DaniLeigh started popping up together in social media posts. He featured her in his music video, they traveled together to celebrate their birthdays, and there were Instagram Stories of them showing affection and enjoying one another’s company. Soon, the pair revealed they were expecting a child. Still, things took a dramatic turn when their romance unraveled on Instagram Live. DaBaby told the world DaniLeigh a side piece and berated her in real-time. The former couple-non-couple argued, and soon, the police were called. Both artists haven’t recovered from the scandal—as a matter of fact, they’ve continued to be embroiled in fights, court cases, and reported tense co-parenting.
33. A.I. Rappers
Although A.I. is a helpful tool in corporate America and beyond, a dark cloud is hovering over its impact on the entertainment industry. In music, specifically, some have already begun testing Artificial Intelligence rappers, using famous artists’ voices. During Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s beef, the OVO leader used an A.I. Snoop Dogg and A.I. Tupac in one of his diss tracks. This move polarized Hip Hop, with many arguing that it was disrespectful to both artists. We can only imagine how The Boondocks would incorporate the rise of A.I. and creating a famous rapper that doesn’t even exist.
34. Dave Chappelle Trans Controversy & Stage Attack
Chappelle’s Show was a firestorm in the early 2000s, running for three seasons and creating some of the best quotes from any comedy series. He gave us unforgettable characters and ongoing standup specials that have been etched in history. Chappelle has been amid controversy throughout his career, but when he made remarks about the trans community, he faced backlash. Then, while performing at the Hollywood Bowl, a man with a weapon rushed the stage in a full-on attack. Thankfully, Chappelle walked away uninjured, but all of the dissension surrounding the comedy giant—and his unmoved reaction to the debates—would make for big laughs on The Boondocks.
35. Charleston White & His Antics
One of the wildest figures in social media culture is Charleston White. He has risen through the online ranks with his hot takes and wild statements. He even beefed with Soulja Boy, pepper spraying the rapper at a restaurant. Further, White has taken aim at almost every top-selling rapper today, as well as given his thoughts on all things political. A Boondocks feature with White could offer spicy interactions with Uncle Ruckus, who is just as unfiltered as the social media star.
36. Jussie Smollett Hoax Drama
There was a time when it seemed pop culture would never be released from the clutches of this scandal. New reports and rumors were daily, and debates unfolded regarding whether or not this was a hoax. Empire star Jussie Smollett found himself the target of one of the biggest scandals of 2019. It was then that he told police he was attacked by two racist white men who put a noose around his neck. Investigators weren’t convinced of his story, and it was revealed that brothers Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo reportedly helped Smollett fake the scene. The actor continues to deny the allegations and even faced charges for lying to the police. The Boondocks loves a good trial episode, so this would be incredible to watch.
37. Nick Cannon’s Calvary Of Kids & Baby Mamas
No one is quite sure how many children Nick Cannon will have, but at the moment, the number stands at 12 in 13 years. Six women, including Mariah Carey, are on the list of mothers, and Cannon seemingly keeps a household with several of the ladies. Cannon has boasted about the joys of fatherhood, yet the public has been sharp in its criticism. Regardless, Cannon is keeping his options open concerning welcoming more children. Imagine what The Boondocks could do with this one.
38. MAGA Mania
Heavily regarded as a cult to some and a way of life for others, MAGA is here to stay. The “Make America Great Again” slogan took flight during Donald Trump’s first presidential campaign, and it’s only gained popularity among those who see the businessman as the Second Coming. Interviews with dedicated MAGA fans have stormed the internet with questionable commentary about the 45th president. The Boondocks would have to tap into this phenomenon.
39. Sha’Carri Richardson Suspended From Olympics
When Sha’Carri Richardson qualified for the delayed Tokyo Olympics, there was overwhelming support for the young star. However, she was suspended after officials revealed she tested positive for THC. Richardson said she used marijuana following the recent death of her mother, but that didn’t stop the public vitriol from all sides. She has since recovered from the backlash and will compete in the Paris Olympics. This could be a Boondocks hot take on the standards Black women are held to as opposed to their counterparts.
40. Jonathan Owens Not Knowing Who Simone Biles Was Before Dating
Simone Biles is considered the greatest gymnast in American history. Her name and face have been used to endorse dozens of brands, and she has been interviewed globally by every major news network there is. She’s a gold medal Olympian, and she continues to inspire people of all backgrounds to become champions. In 2023, Biles married Chicago Bears star Jonathan Owens, who said in an interview that he was completely unfamiliar with his wife when they met on a dating app. Moreover, when questioned about being in a relationship with someone of Biles’s caliber, he called himself the “catch.” The public immediately circulated clips of the chat, sparking an online discourse about the sports stars’ marriage. Biles has since come forward to defend her husband and union.
41. When Empire Ruled Television
For five years, fans were addicted to Empire. The Lee Daniels creation was a megahit, with record label mogul Lucious Lyon (Terrence Howard) and his ex-wife Cookie (Taraji P. Henson) leading a family of talented sons who were stars. The real controversy, however, comes from rumors that real-life events inspired the show. When Lucious (*spoiler*) killed his good friend Bunkie, viewers drew parallels to Diddy and the late-great Notorious B.I.G. There is plenty to work with here for The Boondocks writers.
42. Jada Pinkett Smith & Her August Alsina “Entanglement”
As a collective, we know more about Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith’s family and relationship dynamics than arguably any other Hollywood couple today. Jada launched Red Table Talk alongside her daughter, Willow Smith, and mother, Adrienne Banfield-Norris. They talked extensively about their pasts and presents, but when Will made an appearance, it changed the game. It was revealed that the pair went through a separation, and during that time, Jada had an “entanglement” with R&B singer August Alsina. The social media response was unavoidable, taking over headlines from one end of the earth to the other.
43. Rachel Dolezal Pretending To Be Black
The term “transracial” took flight in the mid-2010s after Rachel Dolezal, then-president of the Spokane, Washington, NAACP chapter, surfaced in pop culture. The curly-haired, fair-skinned woman claimed she was Black, but upon investigation, it was learned she was a white woman born and raised in Montana. Further, Dolezal made wild claims about her upbringing and youth, all of which her parents have come forward to deny. Since then, Dolezal has stood firm in living as a Black woman. She has also changed her name to Nkechi Amare Diallo, leaving her infamy perfect for The Boondocks.
44. The Death Of Prince
One of the greatest musicians of our time passed away in 2016, shocking the world. He had been sick with the flu and underwent a medical emergency just days before his death. Sadly, Prince was found unresponsive at his Paisley Park home on April 21. His cause of death was determined to be an accidental overdose of fentanyl. Prince’s artistry has been widely celebrated, and while the effects of his loss still haunt fans, The Boondocks could pay comical tribute.
Of course, some moments don’t warrant jokes. Yet, that hasn’t stopped The Boondocks from tackling those issues. Basketball fans were shocked when it was announced in January 2020 that Kobe Bryant died in a helicopter crash in California. Then, it was shared that his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna Bryant, lost her life alongside her father. Six family friends also died in the crash, leaving devastation reverberating through several families. The Boondocks paying homage to such a monumental figure and drawing from the worldwide response to the tragedy would be an inspirational feature.
46. Jordan Peele Becomes A Master Of Black Horror
Who knew that the guy from MadTV would become one of the greatest filmmakers in Black horror? Jordan Peele has been active in the comedy space for some time. Key & Peele, a hit sketch series with Keegan Michael-Key, followed in the footsteps of Chappelle’s Show with a twist. However, Peele’s career would take a different direction when he released his directorial debut, Get Out. The movie was just the beginning of a series of Black horror films rejuvenating the genre. BlacKkKlansman, Us, Candyman, and Nope soon followed—all taking over the box office. If The Boondocks dedicated a Halloween episode inspired by Peele’s work, it could be unforgettable.
47. Omarion Being Unbothered By Fizz & Apryl Jones
Love & Hip Hop Hollywood may be on a hiatus for now, but there was a time when it was one of VH1’s top unscripted shows. It once featured former B2K frontman Omarion and his then-fiancée Apryl Jones. The couple’s relationship issues were on full blast, with them welcoming the arrival of their firstborn at the time. In later seasons, Apryl returned with a new beau: Fizz, Omarion’s B2K groupmate. The controversy sparked Omarion’s “unbothered” persona, as he publicly took it all with a grain of salt. Jones would argue that things were different behind the scenes.
48. Hip Hop Podcasts
Hip Hop is ripe with commentary from critics, fans, and artists. There has been a dramatic increase in Hip Hop-centered podcasts, from Joe Budden’s top-earner to Noreaga and DJ EFN’s Drink Champs. Even Akademiks launched his own sit-down series, and DJ Vlad has been thriving in the scene since premiering VladTV in 2008. Speaking of Vlad, he has appeared on The Boondocks in the Sergeant Gutta (a character based on Soulja Boy) episode when he’s beefing with Thugnificient. With so much Hip Hop commentary up for the parodying, The Boondocks wouldn’t be without material.
49. Global Response To The Murder Of Nipsey Hussle
In March 2019, Nipsey Hussle was gunned down in front of his Marathon Clothing store in Los Angeles. The beloved Crenshaw rapper’s life was taken by an associate, Eric Holder, who was rumored to have been triggered by snitching allegations. The global response to Hussle’s passing was incredible, with people descending on his store’s location with candles, flowers, notes, and tributes. It was one of Hip Hop’s most significant losses in recent years, but the reaction to the tragedy is what really shook the industry. Many were accused of jumping on bandwagons and only praising Neighborhood Nip for clout. On The Boondocks, we already saw Riley’s reaction when Gangstalicious was shot and hospitalized. One can only imagine how he would react if one of his favorite rappers were killed.
50. Going Toe-To-Toe On Verzuz
The 2020 pandemic had the industry scrambling for inventive ways to continue sharing artists, new music, Swizz Beatz and Timbaland gathered their team and came up with Verzuz, beginning on Instagram Live. Thousands tuned in to watch two artists in a similar lane play their favorite or top hits back to back. A little trash-talking was inevitable, but all in good fun. Verzuz helped carry Hip Hop through the pandemic and even found success following the lockdown. Yet, corporate tape has switched up the series, with bigger productions, leaving some fans wanting production to return to Verzuz roots. Now that Verzuz has reportedly inked a deal with Elon Musk, Swizz and Tim face new criticisms. A Boondocks episode about this could be centered on the concerts themselves or Verzuz’s new venture with Xitter’s leader.
The announcement of a new exclusive Verzuz distribution partnership with Twitter had many fans calling series heads Swizz Beatz and Timbaland out for allegedly “selling out.” Moreover, this new initiative became news on Juneteenth, and followed much controversy after Musk supported a tweet on his platform that provided false comparative data of Black-on-white murder. However, Swizz took to Instagram on Friday morning (June 21) to double down on his support and on his belief that he and Timbo are doing what’s right and best for them and the series without compromising on their values. He included a couple of other pictures of the meeting in which they apparently sealed the deal.
“We will show you better than tell you. Blessings to all,” Swizz Beatz captioned the social media post. In the comments section of that post (which you can find below), he addressed some specific concerns. “But nobody said anything before we been on that platform since Verzuz started,” the producer replied to a comment stating that folks have valid reason to be skeptical about this. “Verzuz been on this platform since day one !” he responded to a complaint that suggested they do this with another social media site. “People want to talk with out doing the homework . The convo always been on that platform King bless up!! and we’re 100% black owned that’s not enough we own 100% of the IP and company!”
However, Swizz Beatz did agree with a bizarre comment about his new Instagram post being what they should’ve posted on Juneteenth. In addition, he had this to say about someone that criticized him and Timbaland for apparently selling out and doing something that the people aren’t feeling. “Trust me that was the last thing we did was sell out [crying-laughing emoji] relax you will understand in 1min.”
Meanwhile, Swizz Beatz teased a lot when it came to the reunion of Tha Dogg Pound that landed earlier this year. Hopefully this means that there’s much more new music on the way as well, regardless of what happens with Verzuz. It’ll be exciting to see how it develops, even with these grievances and concerns in mind. All we can hope for is that he and Timbaland got a much better understanding of a hopefully beneficiary deal than we did.
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.”
Swizz Beatz and Timbaland have agreed on a deal to distribute Verzuz through Elon Musk’s platform, X (formerly Twitter). The two announced the move during an activation in Cannes, France on Wednesday, as caught by Billboard. Together, Beatz and Timbaland will maintain their full 100% ownership and creative control of their platform. They founded Verzuz during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
Of the new deal, Beatz said in a press release: “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.” Timbaland added: “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.”
Swizz Beatz & Timbaland Speak During BET Hip Hop Awards
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – OCTOBER 03: In this image released on October 10, 2023, Swizz Beatz and Timbaland are seen onstage during the BET Hip Hop Awards at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center on October 3, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/FilmMagic)
X CEO Linda Yaccarino continued: “X is so proud to partner with trailblazing creators, artists and entrepreneurs Swizz Beatz and 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.”
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.
Swizz Beatz and Timbaland are accusing Triller of failing to abide by the terms of their recent settlement agreement regarding Verzuz. In a new filing obtained by AllHipHop, the two are seeking an additional payment of over $565,000 to cover attorney’s fees from Triller. They say the company didn’t honor its $100,000 initial payment and are using an Affidavit of Confession of Judgment to increase the total. Assuming their order succeeds, Triller will owe them $565,000 plus an interest of 9 percent.
In their initial complaint, Swizz and Timbaland claimed Triller agreed to pay them $18 million by March 20, 2022, and then an additional $1 million every month for the subsequent 10 months. They eventually settled on a $28 million agreement.
Swizz Beatz & Timbaland During The BET Hip Hop Awards
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – OCTOBER 03: In this image released on October 10, 2023, Timbaland (L) and Swizz Beatz (R) speak onstage during the BET Hip Hop Awards at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center on October 3, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/FilmMagic)
“VERZUZ has always been a platform that is by the artists, for the artists and with the people,” Swizz and Timbaland said in a statement at the time. “We’re glad to come to an amicable agreement with Triller and continue giving fans the music and community that they’ve come to know and love from the brand.” Bobby Sarnevesht, executive chairman and co-founder of Triller, added: “Verzuz and Triller will always be a safe place and outlet for creators and their art. Nothing will change that. Creators started this and will continue building it. This is a victorious moment in the Triller and Verzuz relationship as we march together toward the public markets. Stay tuned.”
Swizz and Timbaland launched Verzuz at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the time since, it’s blown up with numerous stars appearing on various episodes including Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Snoop Dogg, Dipset, Alicia Keys, and many more. Be on the lookout for further updates on Swizz Beatz and Timbaland as well as Verzuz on HotNewHipHop.
Fat Joe joked that he wants credit for Nelly and Ashanti’s renewed relationship, after helping set the two up at his Verzuz with Ja Rule in 2021. He discussed the couple’s relationship during a live stream on Instagram with fans, earlier this week. “They look so happily ever after,” Joe said after discussing their meeting.
Later in the stream, he recalled FaceTiming them both after Nelly was seen rubbing Ashanti’s belly on stage, prompting pregnancy rumors. “I immediately tell them I need 10 percent of this kid because if it wasn’t for Verzuz, that I brought Nelly out [during] me against Ja Rule, that’s when they saw each other and energy connected again. That’s when he said I gotta have her. He was over there contemplating; he really wanted to go over there,” he said.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: (L-R) Jermaine Dupri, Papoose, Ma, Nelly, Fat Joe, Ja Rule, Ashanti and Lil’ Mo attend VERZUZ: Fat Joe Vs Ja Rule at The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden on September 14, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
From there, Joe explained that someone from his crew encouraged Nelly to approach Ashanti at the event. “He goes over there, and that starts the conversation. You know somebody gotta crack the ice — I don’t know why they fell out.” Fat Joe’s Verzuz opponent, Ja Rule, previously commented on Nelly and Ashanti’s reconciliation and described it as unsurprising. “You can tell sometimes when women – they want that old thing back. I don’t want to blow sis up. But the chemistry was there,” Ja Rule said during a recent appearance on The Tamron Hall Show. “And I think for both of them it came back quick. So I think they missed each other. It had to be that way because of the way they just clicked and came back so fast.”
Nelly and Ashanti originally dated from 2003 to 2013. They are currently expecting their first child together. Be on the lookout for further updates on Fat Joe as well as Nelly and Ashanti on HotNewHipHop.
Swizz Beatz and Timbaland both played the role of team captains for the iconic cypher at the 2023 BET Hip Hop Awards. Swizz Beatz’s team included Foggieraw, Symba, Scar Lip, and Cassidy while Timbaland led Lola Brooke, Lady London, Gloss Up, and Bun B. Throughout the segment, the rappers performed over some of Swizz and Timbaland’s most iconic beats including Busta Rhymes’ “Touch It,” The LOX’s “Fuck You” and JAY-Z and UGK’s “Big Pimpin.’”
“Tonight we’re doing it special with me and my brother, Timbaland. We doing a cypher that you’ve never ever seen before. BET is celebrating the producers so Tim’s got his beats going. I got my beats going. He got his team going. I got my team going,” Swizz said to introduce his cypher.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – OCTOBER 03: In this image released on October 10, 2023, Timbaland (L) and Swizz Beatz (R) speak onstage during the BET Hip Hop Awards at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center on October 3, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/FilmMagic)
Elsewhere during the ceremony, Swizz and Timbaland took home the Rock The Bells Cultural Influence Award. “I always dreamed I would be on the stage accepting the award about Hip Hop,” Timbaland said while accepting the award. “Doing music back in Virginia, [I] never thought I would make it, but now I’m here! Me and my brother created something special, and it ain’t over,. I’m glad to share this moment with my brother, Swizzy.” Check out Timbaland and Swizz Beatz’s cyphers below.
Swizz Beatz & Timbaland Battle For The Cypher Title
Swizz Beatz & Timbaland’s appearance at the BET Hip Hop Awards comes as they prepare for the long-awaited return of Verzuz. During an interview with AllHipHop, last month, Timbaland confirmed that new episodes of the show will be premiering at some point before the end of the year. Be on the lookout for further updates on the show on HotNewHipHop.
The 2023 BET Hip-Hop Awards were another success, which is no surprise given the fact that it has been airing for 17 years. So many fantastic artists and producers were in the house for the evening and there were plenty of great moments throughout it. One of which was Timbaland and Swizz Beatz taking the hardware for the Rock The Bells Cultural Influence Award. They are the third winners of it, with it debuting back in 2021. It is great recognition for these two iconic producers who have been pushing hip-hop music forward for decades now. Both gave their sincerest thanks to the fans during their speeches.
Billboard shared some quotables from Timbaland and Swizz Beatz. Timb got things started, “I always dreamed I’d be on stage accepting an award about hip-hop. Doing music back in Virginia, I never thought I’d make it, but I’m here.” However, besides being appreciative and humble about the win, he had more to share. “Me and my brother created something special, and it ain’t over. Black-owned, Verzuz, me and Swizz Beatz. I’m glad to share this with my brother.”
Timbaland And Swizz Beatz Accept The Rock The Bells Cultural Influence Award
We heard some rumblings earlier this year about a third season, but it seems to be closer to returning. Swizz repeated a similar message. “We own Verzuz again. We got quiet for a minute, but we’re gonna come back strong and show you what it is. That wasn’t just something for the pandemic; that’s something for the world.” With plenty of legends showing up to their show in the past and the news about a new format, this is shaping up to be epic.
What are your initial thoughts on Timbaland and Swizz Beatz winning the Rock The Bells Cultural Influence Award? Are you excited for the return of Verzuz? Do you think it will be an improvement over the previous format? 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, Swizz Beatz, as well as the rest of the music world.
big moves 
