As an in-demand rapper and producer for some time now, Hit-Boy has sat down for an interview or two in his day. However, he’s never had one like he just did on the latest episode of CONVOS.
CONVOS is a new series from Will.i.am’s FYI.AI, and it features “one-on-one, unscripted conversation with an AI persona in the FYI.AI app, sharing their stories, inspiration, and thoughts on current events and the projects they’re working on,” per a press release.
It’s undeniably an unconventional interview format, but that doesn’t mean it can’t yield worthwhile anecdotes and insights. During the chat, Hit-Boy talked about working with his father, noting that his dad has a whopping 700 songs in the queue, not to mention a role in Hit-Boy’s upcoming movie.
Elsewhere in the episode, Hit-Boy discussed using AI as a “super-useful tool” in making music, noting how emerging technology has long been a part of his creative process (like FL Studio back in the day). He even performed a new verse he’s working on and got feedback on it from FYI.AI.
Aside from Hit-Boy, the first season of CONVOS is also set to feature Jason Derulo, Imogen Heap, X-Eyee, Dee-1, Buddy, Brother Ali, DJ Hed, Austin Brown, and Black Eyed Peas members apl.de.ap, Taboo, and Will.i.am himself, among others.
Check out Hit-Boy’s episode of CONVOS above.
Will.i.am is a partner and investor in Uproxx Studios.
On Wednesday, December 4th, multi-platinum recording artist, tech innovator, and FYI.AI founder will.i.am celebrated the debut of MBUX Sound Drive in collaboration with Mercedes-AMG at Nikki Beach Miami Beach. The private event featured an intimate beachside chat with will.i.am, moderated by Lex Borrero, co-founder and president of NEON16. They discussed the revolutionary MBUX Sound Drive, a next-gen audio system that uses motion sensors to turn a car into an instrument, offering a unique, immersive music experience that allows real-time music manipulation while driving.
Black Eyed Peas frontman and self-proclaimed futurist will.i.am is back in the spotlight, gracing the latest cover ofHaute Living just in time for Art Basel. The multi-talented artist, innovator, and Harvard graduate opens up about the group’s upcoming Las Vegas residency, the evolution of the Black Eyed Peas, and his ever-expanding ventures in the world of tech and creativity.
A Star-Studded Art Basel Celebration
On December 3, Haute Living threw an exclusive party at The Moore Miami to celebrate will.i.am’s cover. Presented by JP Morgan Chase in collaboration with Navier, Amnisia Vodka, and Plinth Wine, the event was nothing short of glamorous. Guests included reality star Larsa Pippen, NFL alum and Dancing with the Stars contestant Danny Amendola, and Shark Tank’s Daymond John.
Haute Living Celebrates will.i.am at The Moore Miami
The highlight of the evening was a custom 23k gold piece commissioned by celebrity artist Johnathan Schultz, symbolizing life and stepping into reality, which was gifted to will.i.am.
The First AI Residency in Las Vegas
The Black Eyed Peas are gearing up for their first Las Vegas residency, and will.i.am is bringing his signature innovation to the table. “We wanted to do the Las Vegas residency because it allows us to do something we’ve never done before,” he shared. After conquering stadiums, arenas, theater tours, and iconic global stages like the Super Bowl and the World Cup, the residency is an opportunity to redefine the Peas’ legacy.
But this isn’t just any residency. Fans can expect groundbreaking performances, including the debut of Vida, the group’s new AI member. “We’re bringing the first AI residency to Vegas. Why not do it wild?” will.i.am said, emphasizing the group’s commitment to pushing creative boundaries.
Fergie’s Impact and the Future of the Peas
Reflecting on the group’s history, will.i.am acknowledged the transformative role Fergie played in their success. “Her addition, coupled with songs like ‘Let’s Get It Started’ and ‘Where Is the Love?’ catapulted us to another level,” he said.
As the group evolves, the integration of Vida signals their dedication to staying ahead of the curve in technology and entertainment. “We had to look at the type of experiences fans were going to have and what people would be curious about,” he explained.
From Harvard to “Operationist”
In addition to his music and tech ventures, will.i.am has achieved academic success, graduating from Harvard Business School’s Executive Education Owners/Presidents Management Program. The experience, he said, helped him refine his operational skills.
“I’ve always been good at ideation to manifestation, but Harvard helped me operationalize better. I don’t want to rely on someone else to operationalize my creativity,” he shared, describing his mindset as that of an “operationist.”
A Visionary at the Helm
With a visionary approach to creativity, business, and innovation, will.i.am continues to redefine what it means to be an artist in today’s world. From spearheading a new era for the Black Eyed Peas to pushing the boundaries of technology and art, his journey is one of endless evolution and boundless ambition.
Fans can look forward to the group’s electrifying Las Vegas residency, and in true will.i.am fashion, it promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.
Will.i.am has done a little bit of everything at this point in his life. He’s achieved global music stardom as a member of the Black Eyed Peas, and more recently, he launched Will.i.am Presents The FYI Show, a SiriusXM show co-hosted by AI. Now, he has another achievement to add to the resume: After going back and forth to Cambridge, Massachusetts for the past three years, Will.i.am has completed Harvard Business Schools’ OPM Executive Education Program (with “OPM” standing for “Owner/President Management”).
Harvard Business School explains of the program, “Building, leading, and growing a successful business can be an all-consuming challenge that leaves leaders little time for personal and professional growth. As your business expands, so will its challenges. Your strategic vision and go-to-market options should expand, too. Owner/President Management is a transformational program for pushing yourself towards operational excellence and advancing your company’s agenda. Expand your mindset as a leader. Leave inspired to drive growth, innovate through disruption, cultivate an agile culture, and sustain enterprise success.”
Will.i.am said in a statement of his time at Harvard:
“It’s an emotional journey for me, something that I could never have imagined growing up in Estrada Courts, the projects of East Los Angeles/Boyle Heights neighborhood. My cohort of classmates are extraordinary and every one of them run massive companies and organizations around the world. There are so many amazing collaborations ahead!”
He also noted, “Lifelong learning is a must, especially in the Age of AI where it is crucial to keep educating humans so they will be able to drive the machines.” Furthermore, he added that he gave custom hoodies to his classmates as a parting gift, and he also did a Q&A for the Harvard Business School student body, on his career in music and new focus on technology.
As for what’s next on Will.i.am’s agenda: Black Eyed peas are performing at SoFi Stadium today (October 25) for the halftime show of the 89th East LA Classic, a storied Los Angeles high school rivalry football game. Beyond that, the band is also preparing for Black Eyed Peas3008: The Las Vegas Residency, which kicks off in February 2025 at The Planet Hollywood Resort And Casino Theater.
Tha Dogg Pound are back and better than ever. The West Coast powerhouse has been promoting the hell out of their upcoming album on podcasts. Kurupt and Daz Dillinger have mended fences after years of dissent, and everything we’ve heard so far suggests that they put their best foot forward when it came to making W.A.W.G. (We All We Got). Even the title advertises the newfound sense of unity the group feels. Now that Dogg Pound has dropped the tracklist, though, we can confidently say they have a lot.
Snoop Dogg is technically not a member of Dogg Pound. The group always comprised of Kurupt and Daz, with Snoop being part of the larger D.P.G.C. (Dogg Pound Gangsta Clicc). That being said, he’s a major part of this album. Tha Doggfather is featured on eight of the album’s fourteen tracks, which is more than enough to qualify him as the honorary “third” member. It doesn’t hurt that Snoop is now the owner of Death Row Records, which W.A.W.G. is being released through.
Fans of the Death Row heyday will be thrilled to know that other OGs are in the mix. Lady of Rage and RBX will contribute verses to the last song, which is fitting given their essential contributions to the Dr. Dre album that started it all, The Chronic. There will also be multiple features from Butch Cassidy, who wasn’t present for Death Row but has worked with all of its affiliates over the years. Cassidy is a Long Beach native, just like Snoop and Daz. The more intriguing collaborators come from the production.
Mike & Keys handled the lion’s share of the album’s songs, which makes sense given their LA sound. It’s cool to see a producer as capable as Daz, who produced most of the first two Dogg Pound albums, hand over the reigns to younger artists to see what they can provide. It will ensure that W.E.W.G. doesn’t sound like a retread. Hyphy legend Rick Rock will work his magic on two songs, one of which features Will.i.am. The most exciting producer choice, though, is Dogg Pound linking up with DJ Premier for the outro, titled “Who Da Hardest.” That one is going to hit hard.
Will.I.Am, a multi-talented musician, producer, and entrepreneur, has significantly impacted the music industry, but what is his net worth in 2024? Let’s dive deeper into his successful journey and explore how he has amassed his wealth.
Will.I.Am Net Worth
As of 2024, his estimated net worth is around $50 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Will.I.Am’s Early Career & Success With Black Eyed Peas
LOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER, 1999: (L-R) Haitian-American rapper, producer, songwriter and actor Praz Michel, Haitian rapper, musician and actor Wyclef Jean, Filipino American rapper, singer and record producer Apl.de.Ap, American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer Will.I.Am and American rapper, songwriter, actor and DJ Taboo, of the American musical group Black Eyed Peas, pose for a portrait in the studio circa November, 1999 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Lester Cohen/Getty Images)
Born William James Adams Jr., Will.I.Am began his career in the early 1990s. He formed the group Atban Klann, which eventually evolved into the Black Eyed Peas (BEP). The band’s big break came in 2003 with their third album, Elephunk. The album included hit singles like “Where Is the Love?” and “Let’s Get It Started,” catapulting the group to international fame. The following albums, Monkey Business, The E.N.D., and The Beginning, also garnered massive success. The BEP’s global album sales have exceeded 80 million, significantly contributing to Will.I.Am’s net worth.
Solo Music Career & Collaborations
LOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 08: Singers will.i.am, winner of the Best Urban/Alternative Performance award for “Be OK” poses in the press room during the 51st Annual Grammy Awards held at the Staples Center on February 8, 2009 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)
Apart from his success with the BEP, Will.I.Am has also enjoyed a fruitful solo career. His first solo album, Lost Change, was released in 2001. However, it was his third solo album, Songs About Girls, that gained more recognition with singles like “I Got It from My Mama” and “Heartbreaker.” Additionally, Will.I.Am has collaborated with numerous high-profile artists, such as Britney Spears, Usher, and Justin Bieber, further increasing his net worth.
Television & Film Appearances
NEW YORK – JULY 18: Musician Will.i.am attends the Mandela Day: A 46664 Celebration Concert at Radio City Music Hall on July 18, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/WireImage)
Will.I.Am’s involvement in television and film has also contributed to his wealth. He has been a coach on the UK version of The Voice since 2012, bringing his unique perspective and experience to aspiring musicians. In the film industry, he has lent his voice to animated characters in movies like Rio and Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa. These diverse projects have expanded his portfolio and earnings.
Will.I.Am: Tech Entrepreneur & Philanthropy
LOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER 18: Singer will.i.am attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)
Will.I.Am’s ventures extend beyond music and entertainment, as he has made significant strides in the tech industry. He founded his own technology company, i.am+, specializing in consumer electronics and artificial intelligence. The company has developed products like the Puls smartwatch and the Buttons Bluetooth earphones.
His philanthropic efforts are also noteworthy. Will.I.Am founded the i.am.angel Foundation, which aims to transform lives through education, inspiration, and opportunity. The foundation has launched initiatives like i.am College Track. This program provides comprehensive support to students from underserved communities. There is also i.am STEAM, which focuses on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math education. These ventures not only help others but also bolster his brand and reputation.
Conclusion/TLDR
With an estimated net worth of $50 million as of 2024, Will.I.Am has undoubtedly achieved a great deal throughout his career. His success can be attributed to his work with the Black Eyed Peas, solo music projects, collaborations, television appearances, and tech entrepreneurship. His philanthropic initiatives also demonstrate his dedication to giving back and making a difference in the lives of others. As Will.I.Am continues to evolve and explore new opportunities. His net worth will likely continue to grow.
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 Showwill 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.
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.
The world has come to stand and acknowledge the 50-year mark of the assassination of a man who is defined as being the most influential civil rights leader in American history, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. On April 4, 1968, as he stood on the balcony of Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Dr. King was fatally struck with a bullet by James Earl Ray, an unlawful racist. The striking assassination of Dr. King follows a sturdy 14-year reign serving as a dominant figure in the civil rights movement fighting for the security of legal rights for African Americans. It was a fight drilled with nonviolence and civil disobedience, being burgeoned by the vile acts of racial segregation, disenfranchisement, and exploitation of all hanging from the centerfold of racism.
The powerfully symphonic voice of Dr. King in his iconic “I Have A Dream” speech delivered at the 1963 March on Washington sets the tone for emotional empowerment. It is currently the most sampled Dr. King audio recording in hip-hop history. In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr and his sound legacy. Here are nine hip-hop songs sampled by the legendary leader’s voice.
1. Sadat X “Return of the Bang Bang” (2010)
Reigning from the silver-tongued posse who is bound to their divine blackness is Sadat X of Brand Nubian on the solo tip with “Return of the Bang Bang.” The unorthodox emcee takes to the mic to drop insight about his daily journey as a seasoned vet returning to the game. In his signature abstract style, Sadat uses Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” passage to serve rightful diction in his tunnel of bars. “Return of the Bang Bang” is featured on Sadat’s 2010 sequel gem Wild Cowboys II.
2. Heavy D & the Boyz “A Better Land” (1989)
One of the golden era’s finest, the late Heavy D is pouring his soul out in rhyme in “A Better Land” with his boyz about improving the meager conditions of impoverished communities. The telling track starts with a sample of Dr. King’s “I Have A Dream” speech that ends with one of his most acquainted quotes, “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men, are created equal.”
3. Edo G feat. Masta Ace “Wishing” (2004)
Donald Trump is not the first President of the United States to be highly scorned by most of his country. Back in 2004, George W. Bush was in office, turning America’s dream into a nightmare with his jest-like measures. Edo G and Masta Ace took to the mic to release their wishes while demanding intrinsic change in the American way. After Masta Ace crops the title of a dreamer, Dr. King’s infamous line about his dream for freedom and justice in Mississippi hoards the track.
4. Cyhi Da Prynce “Ring Bellz” (2010)
Cyhi Da Prynce is honoring his cultural edge through the barrels of black history in “Ring Bellz” a song from his 2010 mixtape Royal Flush. While mixing his braggadocios persona with black excellence, the G.O.O.D. music wordplayer takes it from Fredrick Douglass to Stokely Carmichael, with the profound words from Dr. King’s beloved speech leading the track.
5. Common feat. will.i.am “A Dream” (2006)
Chicago’s renowned poet in rhyme Common teamed up with will.i.am of The Black Eyed Peas for a true hip-hop measure that reflects on the progression and condition of blacks in a known racist America, the way Dr. King stood sturdy for titled “A Dream.” Owning the same desire for nation zenith, just as King, it was sensible for the abstract collab to start with King’s pacifying “We gonna work it out” saying.
6. Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five “The King” (1988)
With Melle Mel being heralded as one of hip-hop’s earliest conscious rappers, the lingering legacy of Dr. King has certainly played a role during hip-hop’s infancy. The hip-hop pioneer rocks the mic with delight honoring the deeds of Dr. King by recognizing the Civil rights icon’s brightest accomplishments while calling for the bells of freedom. “He brought hope to the hopeless, strength to the weak.”
7. Wu-Tang Clan “Never Let Go” (2014)
Known for their supremely motivational rap hymns, the Wu-Tang Clan hit the masses with a dream driven tune in signature fashion. Docking off of their sixth studio album A Better Tomorrow is “Never Let Go” an ode to survival during challenging times. Before Masta Killa leads and after U-God anchors the track, a courteous potent chunk of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech is heard where the beloved leader makes one of his most bracing points, “For many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. And they have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom.”
8. Boogie Down Productions “Love’s Gonna Get’cha (Material Love)” (1990)
Emphasis is something KRS-One has mastered as a lyricist. Amid the prime of Boogie Down Productions‘ fourth studio album Edutainment comes its top single “Love’s Gonna Get’cha (Material Love),” a song that serves as a warning about the detrimental lust that comes with chasing after material things. To throw emphasis on “movin’ on,” the voice of Dr. King chanting the phrase from his final speech “I’ve Been to the Mountain Top.”
9. Immortal Technique feat. Chuck D, Brother Ali, and Killer Mike “Civil War” (2011)
Budding off of the musically factious Immortal Technique‘s 2011 compilation album The Martyr is “Civil War” featuring Chuck D, Brother Ali, and Killer Mike, an unapologetic effort to audibly express “trying to survive cultural assassination,” the great PE lead makes it clear in the chorus. The track samples a selection of King’s final speech, where the iconic leader encourages the destruction of fear in exchange for glory.
Dr. King’s call for sound justice fused into a faithful dream for African Americans has thrived its way into hip-hop culture out of the purpose of nature. The infancy of hip-hop culture is a result of movements that brewed during Dr. King’s time. Movements that were centered in the fight for justice and art of freedom such as the Black Panther Party and Black Arts Movement, who all commonly owned a desire to climb the path of racial justice. The youth of hip-hop’s beginnings dreamed of topnotch mobility out of the hood, reversing the culture of police brutality, and several cases of discrimination ceased. Now, since the culture has grown into a universal phenomenon, Dr. King’s dreamy element of justice is emblematic in hip-hop whenever he is sampled on a track.
Van Jones and will.i.am orchestrated an exclusive summit in Los Angeles over the weekend, aiming to elevate Black and Brown leaders in the technology sector and empower them to shape the future of innovation. The invite-only event attracted diverse influential figures, including Tiffany Haddish, Ashton Kutcher, Quincy Jones III, Lawrence “Rance” Dopson, Kelly Burton, Samantha Tweedy, Aloe Blacc, and more.
Panels, keynotes, and brainstorming sessions explored topics like the impact of AI on the music industry, leveraging technology for economic equality, and investment opportunities. The summit featured video contributions from Reid Hoffman, Boris Kodjoe, Mustafa Suleyman, Sinead Bovell, Felecia Hatcher, and others, encouraging the pursuit of AI knowledge to empower marginalized communities. Attendees witnessed will.i.am engaging with an AI, emphasizing the importance of protecting identity, while Kutcher highlighted AI’s potential as an equalizer for underserved communities. Segall shared her work on a documentary using AI to bring back a departed friend.
