D Smoke Details The Highs Of ‘Basketball’ On His ‘Last Chance U’ Theme Song

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Despite its title, D Smoke‘s new theme song for the latest season of Netflix’s Last Chance U is not a remake of the 1984 Kurtis Blow classic “Basketball.” While that’s slightly disappointing, the song itself is a success, thanks largely to the Inglewood native’s natural charisma, deft lyricism, and self-assured musicality. Starting with a basketball court sound effects-riddled intro and building to a lush orchestral crescendo, the new track conveys all the emotion of a championship game in progress, from warm-ups to heart-filling finale (although, the fake-out of not using the court sound as a beat a straight-up, a la Reebok ads from the 2000s, hurts a little too).

The placement is another victory for D Smoke, who launched his career as the winner of Netflix’s Rhythm + Flow contest show and is currently up for a Best Rap Album Grammy at this year’s Awards ceremony later this month. Although his debut album, Black Habits, flew a bit under the radar for folks who didn’t catch his heartfelt performances on Netflix, the intervening year certainly helped him make a mark on the rap game as he performed a virtuoso Tiny Desk Concert, lit up the BET Hip-Hop Awards alongside his family, and linked up with well-respected peers throughout the year, including Rexx Life Raj, Rapsody, and Tobe Nwigwe. Coming back to Netflix with “Basketball” is a full-circle moment for him, but it’s also only a waypoint on his journey to even bigger things.

Listen to “Basketball” above.

Lauren London & Michael B. Jordan Star In “Without Remorse” Trailer

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After dispelling pregnancy rumors as “straight bullsh*t,” Lauren London rocks a baby bump in a scene from her upcoming movie with Michael B Jordan. On Wednesday, a trailer for the new action thriller movie Without Remorse was released, causing excitement — as well as realization of sorts– online.

The Amazon Prime movie, based on the Tom Clancy book, is set to be released on April 30. The plot revolves around Jordan’s character, Navy SEAL Sr. Chief John Kelly, and his quest for justice after his wife, played by London, and family are murdered. In his pursuit of the murderers, Sr. Chief Kelly along with another SEAL agent and a CIA agent uncover a possible war looming between the U.S and Russia. 

London’s name went viral on Twitter after the release of the trailer. Fans of the actress poked fun at those who falsely accused London of being pregnant.  

“I AM SCREAMING! People thought Lauren London was pregnant because..she was seen on a set filming a movie. Y’all were really on here being misogynistic towards this Black woman and threatening to push her down steps because y’all worship a man (Nipsey Hussle). THERAPY. IMMEDIATELY,” one fan wrote. 

“Y’all really started that damn pregnant rumor about Lauren London just to find out she was wearing a fake baby bump for a movie role, y’all feel dumb yet?” another fan tweeted.

Others expressed excitement to see the actress return to the big screen after her loss.

“Lauren London is back on our screens y’all .. this makes me so happy.,” a fan said.

Are you excited about the return of Lauren London to the big (or small) screen? Check out the trailer for the new film above and let us know if you plan to watch.

Kim Kardashian Could Keep Kanye-Designed LA Mansion In Divorce: Report

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The mansion that Kanye West spent years designing for himself and his wife Kim Kardashian might be allocated to Kim in their ongoing divorce, as reported by TMZ.

At this stage in their six-year marriage, you’ve likely seen pictures of the interior of Kanye and Kim’s gorgeous Hidden Hills mansion. The inside of the space appears museum-like with a very minimalistic ethos and austere design scheme. The home was a multi-year passion project for Kanye and it’s where Kim and their four children permanently live. According to new reports, Kim and the kids have been staying at the mansion and they may be there for the long-term because Kim is reportedly set to keep the home in the couple’s ongoing divorce discussions. 

TMZ’s sources claim that Kanye doesn’t have a real connection to the area, meanwhile, Kim’s entire family lives very nearby. Kim is also reportedly a big fan of the house and doesn’t want to move, especially since her kids grew up there.

As for Kanye, it’s unclear where he plans to permanently reside. He has been spending a lot of time at his Wyoming ranch in the last few years, so that’s a possibility. He also set up Yeezy offices in Atlanta, and Los Angeles, of course, remains an option.

Earlier today, Kim posted a picture of her wearing the latest Yeezy Foam Runners, confusing and reassuring fans at the same time. The two reportedly still have a lot of love for each other, so it makes sense that they would support one another’s business ventures. However, it’s understandable why people would be caught off-guard by Kim showing off the Yeezys mere weeks after filing for divorce.

We’ll continue to keep you updated with the latest news surrounding Kim, Kanye, and their divorce.

[via]

WS Boogie Absolutely Snaps On “Whoopty Freestyle”

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For those who haven’t been keeping score, Westside Boogie has been on an absolute tear of late, warming up for his upcoming album with a slew of standout freestyles and loosies. Linking them together, by his own admission, is a resolute dedication to debauchery and doing whatever the hell he wants to do. Today, Boogie has come through with a brand new freestyle, taking to CJ’s breakout single “Whoopty” to spit some bars.

Though the Compton rapper doesn’t tend to favor Brooklyn drill production as a rule, it’s clear he has no issue with obliterating the infectious instrumental. In fact, he rides the beat with precision, building in intensity as his rhymes unfold. “Hundred percent of me went to the Lord, when momma was poor and I never wanted a sip,” he raps, as the drums pull back. “Hate on the front of my lip, how I’m gon’ stomach this shit, this hunger a son of a bitch.” The drums return with a vengeance and Boogie follows suit. “Feel like you love to trigger me,” he spits. “Can’t forget how to touch an enemy.”

Even if he does swear this will be “his last week of being a hood rat,” expect Boogie to keep the momentum rolling and then some as his anticipated new album approaches. 

QUOTABLE LYRICS

Hundred percent of me went to the Lord,
When momma was poor and I never wanted a sip
Hate on the front of my lip
How I’m gon’ stomach this shit, this hunger a son of a bitch
Feel like you love to trigger me, can’t forget how to touch an enemy

Cardi B Explains What “Broke” Means To Her

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According to Cardi B, “broke boys don’t deserve no p*ssy”. Or, at least she says that in her latest hit single “Up”. The rapper hasn’t exactly come under fire for the line, but it has forced her to explain what exactly she means by broke, especially considering she’s part of a tax bracket that many of us will never reach. 


Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images

On Twitter, she explained her take. “If a n***a have a job whether is minimum wage or not ‘he not a broke n***a’,” she said, clarifying her use of the word. “He got potential to be rich one day cause of the hustle. It be them NO jobs, no hustle, f*ck you one day live in your house the next week type of N***as that BE BROKE !! And don’t deserve no Clitoris!”

In her replies, people are defending the men that have no jobs, telling Cardi that they just need some extra guidance or a point in the right direction as far as resources go. There are also those agreeing with what she says, celebrating her for clarifying that, just because someone is currently working a low-paying job, they’re not “broke” per se. 

Cardi B’s song “Up” has been performing extremely well on the charts, hitting its #2 peak on the Billboard Hot 100 during its third week out. Do you agree with her assessment of what it means to be “broke?”

Laney Keyz Bares His Soul On “Famous”

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Days ago, reports surfaced that an attempt was made on West Coast rapper Laney Keyz’ life. In leaked surveillance footage, three gunmen were seen dumping shots into the rising rapper’s Los Angeles home, and thankfully, Laney Keyz survived the frightening ordeal without any physical injuries. 

It turns out that the 23-year-old East Oakland artist has already spoken on the dangers of the West Coast on his single “Famous.” Released a week prior to the shooting at his home, the rising rapper laments about the struggles with his newfound fame as well as the deadly threats lurking in his hometown. 

Over a melancholy trap beat, Laney Keyz peels back the layers of his origin story, sharing his fears, loyalties, and imperfections with listeners as he reveals that rather than getting famous, his ultimate goal is escaping his negative surroundings. In the song’s chorus, he bares his soul and admits that he has been yearning to go back home to the Bay, but he also understands that it’s safer for him in Los Angeles.

 What are your thoughts on Laney Keyz’ latest single?

Quotable Lyrics

Thought about going broke, that s*** scared me (yeah)
Thought about going ghost, but I got family
Thought about going home, but that sh** deadly (yeah)
Lot of s*** ain’t go the way we planned it

James Harden’s Jersey To Be Retired In Houston Despite Messy Departure

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Although James Hardenleft the team in January to join Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving on the Brooklyn Nets, Houston Rockets team owner Tilman Fertitta announced that the team plans to retire Harden’s number 13 jersey. 

In a statement to the Houston Chronicle, Fertitta stated, “James Harden will always be a Rocket. Of course, we will retire his jersey. He made my first three years of owning the franchise unforgettable. The success he brought this franchise over eight years and the memories he created for our fan base/community [are] truly remarkable.” 

These comments come before tonight’s Nets and Rockets matchup, and Harden’s first game back in Houston since he was traded to the Nets in January. 

Harden expressed excitement in his upcoming return, stating during a recent interview, “I’m excited just to go back to Houston where I basically had an unbelievable career there. They showed me mad love & respect & I’m just excited to be playing in front of those fans..Yeah I’m excited.”

Regardless of how he left, Harden was an amazing talent in Houston. In all eight seasons with the Rockets franchise, Harden led the team to the playoff including two trips to the Conference Finals in 2015 and 2018. After averaging 30.4 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.4 rebounds, Harden was named the 2017-2018 NBA MVP, the third player in the franchise to earn the reward. Harden is also the franchise leader in assists and second behind Hakeem Olajuwon in franchise points and win shares.

When his jersey is lifted at the Toyota Center he will be immortalized with Calvin Murphy, Moses Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon, Rudy Tomjanovich, Clyde Drexler, and Yao Ming.

Do you think Harden has earned the honor?

james harden number 13

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OMB Peezy Was Reportedly Arrested In Connection With The Roddy Ricch And 42 Dugg Video Shooting

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Getty Image

Sacramento rapper OMB Peezy has been arrested in connection with the shooting on an Atlanta music video set two weeks ago, according to XXL. The well-established hip-hop magazine confirmed via Fulton County court records that Paris LeDade — better known as OMB Peezy — was arrested Monday, March 1 for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony for an incident on February 21, the day of the shooting. Peezy’s bond is set at $40,000 — $30,000 for the assault and the rest for possession of a firearm.

Born in Mobile, Alabama, Peezy relocated to California before high school and has since shuttled back and forth between the two cities, maintaining roots to both the Bay Area post-hyphy and Southern trap sounds. He most recently released the mixtape In The Meantime while working on his next album, the follow-up to 2019’s Preacher To The Streets, dropping the “Dope Boys” video with Rylo Rodriguez in early February. Unfortunately, it seems art imitated life in this situation, leading to the arrest and fans’ concern that 42 Dugg and Roddy Ricch, the two rappers whose video set the shooting occurred, were injured or worse.

However, Roddy and Dugg very quickly allayed those concerns, confirming that they were not among the three people injured in the shooting. No motive for the shooting has been reported as yet.

Roddy Ricch is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

Wu-Tang Clan Unveil “The Rarest Book In Hip-Hop History”

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Wu-Tang is for the children, and as such, those children must one day learn the history of the great and mighty hip-hop group. Now, that process will be slightly easier, provided one can get a hold of the extremely limited-edition Wu-Tang Clan coffee table that is officially on the way. Of course, it should be noted that this new tome is taking a page out of their fabled Once Upon A Time In Shaolin album, insofar as exclusivity is concerned.

Wu-Tang Clan

 Al Pereira/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

Case in point, HipHopNMore reports that the book is already being dubbed “the biggest and rarest book in the history of Hip Hop,” as detailed in a press release surrounding the big release. Featuring 300 pages worth of color pictures spanning across the group’s storied career, the book itself will be “encased in a striking bronze-encrusted black steel chamber” designed by sculptor Gethin Jones, weighing in at over four-hundred pounds. 

While the Wu-Tang Clan Legacy book will clearly be an incredible collector’s item for die-hard fans, it would appear that securing a copy might not be so easy. After all, a mere thirty-six copies have been created; while certainly thematically appropriate, it’s hardly ideal for anyone who isn’t the most ardent collector. Should you be interested to try your hand at a priority purchase, you can sign up via email at the official Wu-Tang Clan Legacy website right here. If you’re simply looking to admire this fine blend of hip-hop history and stellar craftsmanship from afar, check out a brief promo video below.

Big U Denies Rumor That He Was Involved In Nipsey Hussle’s Murder

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Nearly two full years following the death of Nipsey Hussle, the Los Angeles rapper‘s presence is still sorely missed by Hip-Hop fans and artists alike. As with any passing of a public figure, many people have speculated that Nip’s death was part of a conspiracy. While the most popular conspiracy theory surrounding the Victory Lap artist‘s passing involves his ties to Dr. Sebi and Big Pharm, there has been a long-running rumor that Eugene “Big U” Henley, Nipsey’s former manager, allegedly orchestrated his murder. Now, the founder and Executive Director of nonprofit Developing Options has stopped by Drink Champs to finally clear the air about those rumors.

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In the Drink Champs interview, N.O.R.E. revealed that he hadn’t even heard about Big U’s rumored involvement in Nipsey Hussle’s death before asking him to elaborate on the accusations.

“We ain’t got no beef. Period,” Big U explained. “We never stopped talking. All the way up until he signed the deal with Atlantic Records, he called me and said ‘Unc, let’s go. Where the f*** is the beef at?”

“I’m in the f****** video for “Ain’t No Rap N*****,” he continued. “I am the n**** who’s promoting Victory Lap on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook. All these weirdos that just became Nipsey Hussle fans, they weren’t promoting that! So where are these rumors coming from? It’s n**** using his name and his death to make some money.”

“And the rest of the ignorant people [are] falling for that. How you gone have that and got a man in jail, and be like ‘Oh it’s a conspiracy?'” Big U said, visibly irritated with the rumors.

For the full conversation, you can check out the entire Big U Drink Champs episode below.