New Hip Hop News

When Kanye West decided to ditch Secular music for Gospel, many fans were concerned and didn’t know what to think. Eventually, Kanye released Jesus Is King and many changed their minds as they felt like Kanye’s production abilities worked well with the Christian lyrics and subject matter. In fact, the Recording Academy agreed with this sentiment as they decided to nominate Jesus Is King for a Best Contemporary Christian Music Album Grammy.

Today, the Grammy Awards are taking place in Los Angeles and some of the awards are already being given out. Just moments ago, it was revealed that Kanye would actually be winning the Grammy for the Best Contemporary Christian Music Album category, which just goes to show that Kanye can excel in whatever field or genre he so chooses.

Kanye is currently in the midst of a divorce with Kim Kardashian, so it’s safe to say that Grammys and music aren’t exactly at the top of his mind right now. Regardless, this award is proof that his transition to Gospel music wasn’t for nothing and that those in the industry continue to respect what he’s doing.

Hopefully, Kanye doesn’t feel the need to pee on this Grammy like he did that other one so many months ago.

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Earlier in the day, we reported that Kirk Franklin’s son Kerrion had come forward with allegations regarding being the alleged victim of verbal abuse throughout the years at the hands of his father. Exposing an explicit phone call between father and son, Kerrion shared audio of the tense exchange yesterday (March 13) on his social media. Igniting buzz all across social media, with many shocked at the infamous choir director and gospel artist’s behavior, Plies has chimed in on the drama, jokingly taking ownership for Kirk’s harmful words. 

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“I Gotta Put My Dawg On The Album Now 4real!!!!! He Sounded Just Like Me On That Phone Bih!!!!!!” wrote the Florida rapper on his Twitter account. He completed the tweet with a trio of laughing emojis, adding the hashtag #’AintNoneOfUsPerfect.’

He continued in a second tweet, “That Was NOT My Dawg On That Phone That Was ME!!!!!!#ITakeFullResponsibilityForThoseActions,” adding another laughing emoji at the end of his statements. In case you missed it, check out the audio of the testy exchange below. 

While Plies made light of the situation, many, including Kerrion Franklin himself, are not as amused. Kerrion penned in the caption of the exposé, “I probably won’t release the entire recording because it’s too embarrassing that I’m even dealing with this. No matter what ppl think I pray my dad deals with his deep hatred toward me. I don’t feel safe around him at all. This recording is recent it is not from 2018 just to clarify.” 

Kirk has since issued an apology, adding that the family has been in therapy to work out their strained relationship. Kerrion has called out this claim as B.S., saying the gospel star has been inconsistent with going to therapy with him, adding he hasn’t been accepted by the family in over 14 years. 

What’s your take on the situation? Let us know in the comments. 

Some of the biggest names in rap kicked the month off with some heat but the stars of R&B have emerged to carry the vibes on as the spring comes closer. Of course, our R&B Season playlist is here to highlight all the R&B tracks that you should have on rotate right now. Here’s your breakdown:

While it might be a while until we receive a new project from Jorja Smith, she slid through this week with her sultry new record, “Addicted” earlier this week. Even after setting a high bar for herself with Lost & Found, Jorja Smith’s latest single is a promising look into what she has up her sleeve.

On Friday, Giveon commemorated the release of his two EPs by joining them together for, When It’s All Said And Done… Take Time. Even though it largely consisted of previously released singles, he did release his latest single, “All To Me.” 

Additionally, we got some new heat from Brent Faiyaz who just dropped off his latest single, “Show U Off” on Friday. 

Other additions to this week’s playlist include Foushée, Juice WRLD, and Jacquees.

COVID-19 has completely changed the way we do things. At this point, almost everyone spends their days locked up in their homes while some of the best athletes in the world are tested every single day as a way to make sure they are safe to play. It’s completely altered the way we look at the world and until at least 60 percent of the population is vaccinated, things are probably going to stay this way for a very long time.

NBA players have noted just how hard it’s been to be tested every single day, and recently Michael Porter Jr of the Denver Nuggets divulged on some of those realities. Porter fully understands why the testing needs to be done but admits that sometimes, guys are mentally and physically exhausted from having to do the extra work.

“Of course it is,” Porter said when asked if COVID-19 testing is a pain. “No one wants to get back to their house at 2 a.m. It takes a while to go to sleep and then have to wake up at 8 o’clock to go test, so that’s hard for guys. But, you know, this is our job. No excuses.”

Porter Jr’s comments are incredibly honest although we’re sure fans will have a hard time truly empathizing. Regardless, it’s important to highlight that these players are going through a lot this season and that their sacrifice has allowed the NBA to continue.

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As a new artist in the rap game, receiving praise and recognition from current heavy-hitters on the scene is a huge accomplishment. Co-signs from rappers that currently own the landscape essentially feels like a confirmation that your work and music are valid, and is not something to be taken lightly. Recent CMG signee EST Gee received praise from Lil Baby via Twitter account, proclaiming the rising Louisville star to be the proper heir to an Atlanta trap icon. 

The My Turn artist took some time in the wee hours of Sunday morning to give a shout-out to his “Real As It Gets” collaborator EST Gee. “Est Gee The New Young Jeezy,” wrote the Grammy Awards performer.

The rap newcomer, who hails from Louisville, released two projects last year, Ion Feel Nun and I Still Don’t Feel Nun, which earned him recognition from fellow rappers and CMG label head Yo Gotti. 

“I know a star and hustler when I see one and EST Gee is up next,” Gotti said at the time in regards to Gee at the time of his signing. “He got what it takes.” He’s since gone on to collaborate with fellow Louisville artist Jack Harlow on “Route 66,” as well as on his Collective Music Group labelmate 42 Dugg’s “Members Only” track.

What do you think of Baby’s declaration? Let us know in the comments. 

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