Being famous always seemed like more trouble than it’s worth. Sure, there are upsides, but as many a rap act will point out, they rarely outweigh all the extras that come along with them. Just ask Cordae, whose new single “Mad As F*ck” certainly spends some time counting up the curses alongside the blessings. While he brags about his new Ferrari, new chick, and “black diamonds, straight from Africa,” he also worries about “bills on bills coming in” and dudes he doesn’t mess with trying to dap him up. So, you win some, you lose some, I guess.
It hasn’t all been bad for the DMV area native, though. This summer, he announced his “crossroads era,” following up with the video for “Saturday Mornings” with Lil Wayne, then another video with Anderson .Paak, “Summer Drop.” It certainly seems as though he’s close to releasing his long-awaited follow-up to From A Birds Eye View.
Earlier this year, he also made a cameo in Lyrical Lemonade’s “Doomsday 2” video featuring Eminem, which riffed on his and Juice WRLD’s 2023 track “Doomsday.” If Crossroads is indeed the title for Cordae’s third album, he’s teed up the release nicely.
You can watch the video for “Mad As F*ck” by Cordae above.
Drake’s legacy has been a major talking point in 2024. He lost the rap battle against Kendrick Lamar, and has struggled to drop hits with the same frequency that he has for the last 15 years. Some people feel he should hang it up. Rod Wave is here to assure OVO fans that Drake isn’t going anywhere. The rapper had a lengthy conversation about the 6 God ahead of the release of his new album. He shed light on the Drake song that he almost featured on, but most notably, he set the record straight as to whether Drizzy will ever retire.
The answer is no. Rod Wave made it abundantly clear that Drake lives to make music, and has no plans to step back from the limelight. The rapper even likened the 6 God to former Patriots quarterback Tom Brady. “He just love doing this sh*t,” Wave asserted. “He love the game. Like Brady… He at home like ‘what the f*ck I’m finna do without this sh*t.’” Drake has talked about retirement in the past, like any big rapper has. He announced his plan to retire at age 35 on the 2016 song “Weston Road Flows.” That did not take. He talked about it again during a 2023 appearance on Lil Yachty’s A Moody Conversation.
Drake wants a graceful exit. “I guess that’s the one thing that I want for myself really badly,” he told Lil Boat. “I’m not ready now, but to gracefully continue making projects that are extremely, like, interesting and hopefully cherished by people.” Since then, though, the rapper has proven Rod Wave correct. He has dropped tons of music, and teased collab albums with the likes of PARTYNEXTDOOR and Conductor Williams. The most interesting aspect of the Drake and Wave dynamic, though, is that they’ve yet to officially work together.
Rod Wave was supposed to appear on the 2021 song “Lemon Pepper Freestyle.” Drake asked him to put a verse down, but the artist admitted that he got cold feet and was intimidated. “I’m a diehard Drake fan, I just got cold feet,” he explained. Drake was rumored to feature on Rod Wave’s new album, but the song he laid down a feature has since been altered. The album version will not include the 6 God.
Last night, the heart of New York City pulsed with creativity and star power as Jazz at Lincoln Center hosted the unforgettable premiere of the highly anticipated film, Piece by Piece, a vibrant celebration of Pharrell Williams’ iconic life and career. The event drew an impressive array of stars, including A$AP Ferg, Pusha T, N.O.R.E, Bianca Lawson, Teddy Riley, and Nigel Sylvester, who came together to preview the unique LEGO®-animated film that chronicles the Virginia native’s remarkable journey.
Focus Features’ New York Premiere of “PIECE BY PIECE”
Piece by Piece is unlike any other biopic, blending Pharrell’s visionary creativity with LEGO® animation to tell the story of one of music’s most innovative minds. Directed by Academy Award-winner Morgan Neville, the film takes audiences on a colorful, heartwarming journey through Pharrell’s life, from his roots in Virginia to his evolution as a global superstar and cultural icon. Featuring star-studded appearances from artists like Gwen Stefani, Kendrick Lamar, Timbaland, Justin Timberlake, Busta Rhymes, Jay Z, and Snoop Dogg, the film offers an inside look into Pharrell’s creative brilliance.
In attendance to celebrate the film were not only its director and star but also key producers Mimi Valdés, Caitrin Rogers, and David Lawrence, as well as cast members Pusha T, N.O.R.E., and Teddy Riley. The event buzzed with excitement as guests, including notable figures like A$AP Ferg, Bianca Lawson, and BMX star Nigel Sylvester, gathered to witness the fusion of animation and music that brings Pharrell’s inner world to life.
Pharrell’s creative genius is on full display in the film, offering a peek into his thoughts and inspirations. Through this animated masterpiece, audiences are reminded of the powerful connection between creativity and empathy, as Pharrell opens up in ways that resonate globally. His talent, vision, and willingness to be vulnerable shine throughout the movie, delivering an inspiring message to all.
As Focus Features gears up to release Piece by Piece this Friday, October 11, fans won’t want to miss this dynamic cinematic experience that blends art, music, and imagination through Pharrell’s unique perspective.
Piece by Piece will be released exclusively in theaters, and it promises to turn up the volume on your imagination as you follow the story of one of music’s most influential icons.
Directed by: Morgan Neville Produced by: Pharrell Williams, Mimi Valdés, Caitrin Rogers, Morgan Neville Executive Producers: David Lawrence, Shani Saxon, Jill Wilfert, Keith Malone, Joshua R. Wexler, Sanjee K. Gupta, James De Julio, Lesley Worton
The Weeknd has officially beat his own record of artist with highest monthly listeners on Spotify, with over 120.5 million monthly listeners.
The XO-superstar became the first artist to reach 100 million monthly listeners in February of 2023, and has held the number 1 spot since then, aside for a recent one month period. This feat comes following The Weeknd’s latest music video for “Timeless” with Playboi Carti Produced by Pharrell. Also recently released is the fan hit “Dancing In The Flames,” from his heavily anticipated album, Hurry Up Tomorrowavailable for vinyl and CD.
Last month, The Weeknd delivered a sold out stadium spectacular live performance from São Paulo, which was streamed exclusively on YouTube. Millions of fans worldwide tuned in to witness the unique concert that showcased his signature sound and electrifying stage presence along with surprise guests Playboi Carti and Anitta. It was the highest music performance trending in the US and trended in 24 other countries, further solidifying The Weeknd’s reign as a global music icon. 10% of net proceeds from all merchandise sales at the event and online to the Brazilian Soul Fund of BrazilFoundation, supporting communities affected by natural disasters and economic hardships in southern Brazil.
DDG has not had it easy since breaking up with Halle Bailey. The rapper and YouTuber requested that fans respect their privacy. In truth, they have done everything but. They have memed DDG for not being good enough to hold on to Bailey. They’ve also made fake screenshots of DDG Instagram posts, that he has had to debunk. The latest DDG controversy may be the meanest, though. A TikToker made a post in which she accused the rapper of trapping Halle Bailey with a child. He responded, and then she got back at him. It was a whole mess.
The overall sentiment of the TikTok post was that DDG purposely “trapped” his ex-girlfriend by starting a family with her and then breaking up. DDG didn’t appreciate the theory, and took to Instagram Live to set the record straight. “CPM’s not that high for you to be on there talking for two minutes about me,” he told followers. The rapper then decided to get personal with the TikTok creator. “You got two kids, I looked on your Instagram…. with no baby daddy. But you worry about me.” DDG made it clear that he didn’t want or think people should be, in his personal business. “Y’all need to stop,” he added. “I be seeing what y’all be saying, bro.”
The creator, who goes by the handle @frankie_aab, responded. She scrolled through Halle Bailey’s Instagram and noted that DDG is nowhere to be found. “I need y’all to let me know when you see DDG on her page,” she remarked. “It’s funny that you try to use me being a baby mama as an insult when you turned her into a baby mama your damn self.” The creator then noted that including the father of her children on her social media would not make sense. “Why would I have my ex-husband on my page,” @frankie_aab asked. “Did you ever marry that girl?”
The TikToker proceeded to criticize DDG for trying to cast her in a negative. She claimed that her kids are currently spending time with their father, effectively disproving the implication that her ex-husband is not in their lives. There’s a bit of a double standard at play, here, admittedly. @frankie_aab is rightfully calling out DDG for making assumptions and casting aspersions on her life. The whole TikTok exchange started, though, because she was doing the same thing about his life.
With Election Day just weeks away, former President Barack Obama has hit the campaign trail to support Vice President Kamala Harris. On Thursday, Obama traveled to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground state where polls between the candidates remain close.
Recalling his famous campaign slogan “Yes, We Can,” Obama introduced a new version in support of Harris: “Yes, She Can.” He praised the vice president as “a leader who has spent her life fighting on behalf of people who need a voice and a chance.”
In his speech, Obama addressed the challenges Americans have faced in recent years, from the pandemic to rising inflation. He expressed empathy for the difficulties many are enduring, while also emphasizing the importance of leadership in such times.
Obama didn’t shy away from criticizing former President Donald Trump, describing him as “out-of-touch” and mocking Trump’s often lengthy and unfocused rally speeches, which he referred to as “word salad.” He also called out Trump for spreading misinformation, particularly concerning recent claims about FEMA’s response to Hurricane Helene. Trump has accused the administration of neglecting storm victims and redirecting FEMA funds to Democratic-leaning areas and migrants—allegations the administration has strongly denied.
“Everybody knew it wasn’t true, even local Republicans said it wasn’t true,” Obama said. He expressed dismay over Trump’s behavior, asking, “The idea of intentionally trying to deceive people in their most vulnerable moments—when did that become okay?”
Obama’s stop in Pittsburgh marked the beginning of a broader campaign tour across key swing states. He previously spoke at a campaign fundraiser in California and at the Democratic National Convention.
Next week, former President Bill Clinton is expected to join the campaign effort, with plans to rally support for Harris in the rural South, according to a campaign spokesperson.
The 2024 TIME100 Next Gala took place on October 9 at Pier59 in New York City, honoring a group of rising stars who are making significant cultural and social impacts. Among this year’s honorees were Victoria Monét, Shaboozey, Vince Staples, Jaylen Brown, Aaron Pierre, Brandon Blackwood, Reneé Rapp, and Sabrina Carpenter.
Sounds like a serious event and the stars were most certainly out.
Victoria Monét received high praise as she should from Yara Shahidi, who described the JAGUAR II singer as embodying “the essence of an Artist with a capital A.” Shahidi highlighted Monét’s ability to honor the legacy of artists who came before her while creating something uniquely her own. “Her influence is indisputable, not just within the music industry, but in the lives of all who experience her art,” Shahidi remarked.
Country-rap artist Shaboozey was recognized for his innovation and authenticity. Fellow musician Jelly Roll described him as “innovative, honest, charismatic, and charming in a way that’s real,” expressing pride in Shaboozey’s role in representing country music.
What’s more, Colin Kaepernick praised Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown, calling him “more than an NBA star; he’s a force for justice and change.” Kaepernick commended Brown’s philanthropic efforts, labeling him a “beacon of hope” and expressing admiration for the path Brown is paving for future generations.
Quinta Brunson honored Vince Staples as “your favorite rapper’s favorite rapper,” emphasizing his creative versatility and noting how “cool” it is to be both a fan and friend of someone with such a wide range of ideas and talents. Staples is branching out to Hollywood so it’s nice to see him get his due.
If you are unfamiliar, TIME100 Next, distinct from the traditional TIME100, was created to recognize influential leaders who are shaping the future without waiting to follow conventional paths. The list has no age or leadership requirements, acknowledging that influence today takes many forms and often comes from unexpected places.
Although not all honorees could attend the event in person, the gala showcased a night of celebration, with notable appearances and tributes to those making a lasting impact across music, sports, fashion, and activism.
The trial against Sean “Diddy” Combs for racketeering and sex trafficking has tentatively been scheduled for next spring, according to Rolling Stone. The trial is set to begin on May 5, 2025, with prosecutors saying in a hearing today in a New York courtroom that they will need about three weeks to present their case, and warning that another indictment against Diddy could override the current charges. While accused have the right to a speedy trial, prosecutors say they need time to process evidence recovered in April raids of Diddy’s properties, including 96 electronic devices.
Diddy is currently jailed in the special housing unit of New York’s Metropolitan Detention Center awaiting trial after being denied bail; he’s currently preparing a third appeal with a new legal team, offering $50 million and a long list of restrictions including GPS monitoring and limited communications with anyone who could affect the outcome of the trial. However, two judges so far have agreed that his freedom could present a danger of witness tampering. Meanwhile, Diddy’s defense complained of leaks of sensitive information from law enforcement, such as the hotel security footage of his assault on ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, which could bias a jury against him.
The music mogul is accused of a litany of crimes in the furtherance of his alleged racketeering enterprise, including sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice.” If convicted, he could go to prison for 15 years to life.
Drake’s assessment of young talent has been a controversial topic. He has proven to have a good eye when it comes to picking out artists before they make it big, and linking up for a collab. He did it with The Weeknd in 2011, and has kept it moving ever since. Some claim that these are instances of Drake being a culture vulture, a musical vampire, others praise his musical versatility and ability to co-sign. Chino Pacas is the latest example of this phenomenon.
Pacas has exploded over the last two years. He signed to Street Mob in 2023, and released his breakout single, “El Gordo Trae el Mando,” soon after. The song charted on the Billboard Hot 100, and Drake made it clear he was rocking with the teen sensation. The 6 God walked out to an unreleased Chino Pacas tune during a 2024 appearance at a Houston rodeo. He’s set to appear on the single “Modo Capone,” which is on Pacas’ upcoming debut. And on October 10, a week before its release, we were given a snippet of the anticipated collab.
The snippet only lasts 28 seconds, and doesn’t include vocals from Drake or Chino Pacas. It does give fans, however, a feel for what “Modo Capone” is going to sound like. The instrumental is littered with hi hats and a busy synth line. It feels very moody and nocturnal, which is right in the Drake wheelhouse. It would not be surprising to find out that Drake’s longtime producer, Noah “40” Shebib, had a hand in the sound of “Modo Capone.” The instrumental also provides some insight into the rumors that Drake and Chino Pacas have a more substantial collab lined up.
JOP, a member of Fuerza Regida, claimed that Pacas has plans to sign a one album deal with Drake and OVO member Chubbs. The rapper announced that Drake and Chubbs are launching a brand new label. The label is reportedly called PFL, and Pacas is alleged to be the first artist to sign on. Neither Drake nor Pacas have spoken on the rumors. The latter, however, has spoken about how much he enjoys working with Drake. He also cited the Toronto rapper as a musical influence. We can’t wait to see what these two cook up for the fans.
