New Hip Hop News

Sampha Overcomes Loss By Running Head-On Into Uncertainty On The Enchanting ‘Lahai’

October 25, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Sampha 'Lahai' review RX — Young Recordings/Merle Cooper

The RX is Uproxx Music’s stamp of approval for the best albums, songs, and music stories throughout the year. Inclusion in this category is the highest distinction we can bestow and signals the most important music being released throughout the year. The RX is the music you need, right now.

Time always progresses, whether it be one day closer to when our taxes are due or one day closer to when our existence on Earth is over. The sun rises, it sets, and the moon appears. It progresses whether we’re ready for it or not. Sampha seems to understand that on his second album Lahai, his first body of work in six years and first since 2017’s Process.

However, for the London singer, accepting it is a more difficult task. Amid heartbreak and grief, it almost feels like Sampha hoped time would be courteous enough to wait for him, allow him to sort and recover from his feelings, and not be so fast to move on. The opening record on Lahai, “Stereo Color Cloud (Shaman’s Dream),” begins with a female voice that chants choppily, “I wish you, could, time / Time, missile, back, forward / I miss you, time, misuse / Time flies, life issues.” Though broken up and missing words, the message is still clear.

In “Jonathan L. Seagull,” Sampha poses a question that seems to be directed at this progression of time, among other things. “We’ve both dealt with loss and grief in separate ways / On the same track running at a different pace / Will I catch up or will you just race away someday?” Watching the world continue to spin as you work through grief or heartbreak can make the task of catching up insurmountable. The balance between the days where we fall behind and the ones we feel faster than the world keeps us on pace.

For someone who questioned so much in the face of loss, Sampha sings with hard-won clarity throughout the 14 songs on Lahai. He stands optimistic under blue skies and the bright sun, opposing pessimism under rain clouds with records that aim to be the light at the end of the tunnel for listeners who might be struggling with the latter. “Only” encapsulates Sampha’s existential questions well while also coming clean about the emotional damage that was incurred over time.

Sampha’s lyrics capture the swarm of uncertainties that lie in his head. Fluttering and erratic instruments are juxtaposed with Sampha’s soothing vocals as a way to show that peace can exist amid the whirlpool of the unknown as Sampha acknowledges the freedom to be him with love and protection from others on “Spirit 2.0.” Likewise, he conquers regression on “Can’t Go Back” as rapid drums and high hats dance in the background. There’s a mental and emotional fight at hand and Sampha excels at both telling, showing, and making us feel its existence.

Much of Lahai is inspired by Richard Bach’s 1970 book Jonathan Livingston Seagull. As Jonathan, a literal seagull, aims to discover more about the capabilities of their own body through their growing passion for flight and travel, Sampha seeks to accomplish the same level of self-discovery, growth, and more. In the book’s namesake track, he sings “Even though we’ve been through the same / Doesn’t always mean we feel the same
/ Doesn’t always mean we heal the same / You are not me and that’s okay” — a reminder that comparison is the thief of joy.

SLahai contemplates life, death, love, and the time to experience it all. Although the questions are neverending and the answers often don’t arrive as quickly as we’d like them to, there’s no fear in Sampha’s eyes. Instead, he runs head-on into and through the uncertainty that lies ahead of him. He’s now on the other side and proud of the progress he made.

Lahai is an enchanting display of growth and acceptance as a result of unfortunate events. His sophomore album was created with the intention of capturing both the swarming winds and settled dust that occurs on the journey. Six years gives you plenty of time to figure things out, and with that time available for him to use, Sampha made the absolute best of it.

Lahai is out now via Young Recordings. Find out more information here.

MF DOOM’s Widow Filed A Lawsuit Against The Rapper’s Former Manager For Allegedly Stealing His Notebooks

October 25, 2023 by newhiphopnews

MF DOOM‘s widow, Jasmine Dumile Thompson, has now filed a lawsuit against the late rapper’s former label manager, Eothen “Egon” Alapatt, according to Billboard. Thompson claims that Alapatt stole 31 of MF DOOM’s notebooks that contained both lyrics from his albums, as well as ones for unreleased songs and “other creative ideations.”

Thompson filed the suit in a Los Angeles court yesterday (October 24). Before the lawsuit, she had already accused him of the theft, after posting emails on social media between MF DOOM and Alapatt. “Egon, Give the Notebooks Back,” she captioned.

According to the publication and the filing, Alapatt has admitted to having MF DOOM’s writings but is reportedly not giving them back to his estate. Instead, he allegedly wants them “donated to a university or government archive” or a “museum or other institution.”

However, the lawsuit comes because according to Thompson, this goes against MF DOOM’s wishes. “[The notebooks] were intended by DOOM to be secret and confidential,” it reads.

“Alapatt never consulted with DOOM about his acquisition of the notebooks and took advantage of DOOM’s being out the country to obtain them,” it adds, with the alleged theft taking place before the rapper’s death. He had been stuck in the UK over immigration issues, and Alapatt allegedly used this to take them sometime around 2016.

Along with seeking “significant compensation” in the lawsuit, she is also requesting a jury trial.

Who Is Tyla? Meet The South African ‘Water’ Singer

October 25, 2023 by newhiphopnews

It looks like TikTok may have churned out the next Afrobeats superstar thanks to Tyla and her endlessly catchy single, “Water.” While the singer has been around for a few years, as so often happens, the single caught on shortly after its release via a dance challenge and quickly made the jump from the video-sharing app to the Billboard charts. In the process, “Water” made Tyla the youngest-ever South AfricanTyla the youngest-ever South African to chart in the US and the first to do so in 55 years.

So Is Tyla?

Born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa as Tyla Laura Seethal, the 21-year-old singer’s debut single, “Getting Late” was released in 2019 and eventually became a local success, receiving a nomination for Music Video Of The Year at the South African Music Awards in 2022. Epic Records signed Tyla in 2021, and has been setting her up for success throughout 2023, releasing another viral hit, “Been Thinking,” and brokering performances on tour with Chris Brown and at Milan Fashion Week for Dolce & Gabbana.

“Water” came out in July, and since then, it has skyrocketed, peaking at No. 46 on the Hot 100 and topping the UK’s Afrobeats chart. This makes her the first South African to appear on the Hot 100 since Hugh Masekela did so with “Grazing In The Grass” in 1968. Tyla recently made her US television debut, performing the song on The Tonight Show earlier this week. You can check out the video below.

Paigey Cakey Net Worth 2023: What Is The Rapper Worth?

October 25, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Paigey Cakey, a name that resonates in the world of rap and entertainment, has made significant strides in her career. As of 2023, her net worth is estimated to be around $1 Million US Dollars, according to Idol Net Worth. But how did she achieve this? Let’s delve deeper into her journey.

Humble Beginnings

Born as Paige Meade on January 18, 1993, in London, Paigey Cakey’s rise to fame wasn’t an overnight success. She grew up in a family that wasn’t particularly affluent. The nickname ‘Cakey’ was affectionately given to her by relatives and friends during her childhood, symbolizing wealth and well-being, something she aspired to achieve.

Multifaceted Talent

Paigey Cakey isn’t just a rapper; she’s a singer and an actress too. She made her mark with freestyle rapping and released her debut album, The First Page, in 2012. Her most popular song, “Down,” showcases her lyrical prowess and musical versatility.

She has also graced the silver screen, with roles in movies like Waterloo Road and Attack The Block, which she began in 2011. Her most recent film appearance was in Legacy in 2015, where she portrayed the character Tamara. Additionally, she entered the world of influencer boxing when she faced off against Tennessee Thrasher.

Building Her Empire

In 2017, Paigey Cakey embarked on a tour across Britain, promoting her music and connecting with her fans. This tour undoubtedly played a role in boosting her popularity and net worth. Her dedication to her craft is evident in her consistent work, including her Red Velvet Mixtape released in 2016.

Assets And Lifestyle

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A post shared by Paigey Cakey (@mspaigeycakey)

Success in the entertainment industry often comes with a lavish lifestyle, and Paigey Cakey is no exception. Residing in Great Britain, she owns a collection of luxury cars, including a BMW and a Bentley. These assets, combined with her earnings from music, acting, and tours, contribute to her impressive net worth.

Conclusion

Paigey Cakey’s journey from a humble background to achieving a net worth of $1 Million US Dollars is truly inspiring. Her multifaceted talents, dedication, and hard work have played a pivotal role in her success. As she continues to make waves in the entertainment industry, her net worth is only expected to grow.

The post Paigey Cakey Net Worth 2023: What Is The Rapper Worth? appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Kayykilo Net Worth 2023: What Is The Rapper Worth?

October 25, 2023 by newhiphopnews

In the ever-evolving world of hip-hop, new talents emerge, leaving their mark and solidifying their presence. One such talent that has caught the attention of many is Kayykilo, a dynamic rapper from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As of 2023, Kayykilo’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million US dollars, according to Trengezie. But how did she achieve this feat? Let’s delve into her journey.

Born Kiara Danielle Celestine on August 4, 1998, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Kayykilo, formerly known as Kaycee, was raised by her mother alongside two older sisters and two younger brothers. Her childhood was also spent in Lake Charles, La. Beyond her music, Kayykilo is a mother to a daughter, currently six years old, although she remains private about her child’s details.

Education & Initial Interest In Music

Kayykilo’s educational journey took her to Oak Park Elementary, Oak Park Middle, and Washington Marion Magnet High School. She furthered her studies at Texas Southern University. Her love for music was ignited in the 6th grade where she began writing poems, drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Lauryn Hill. Her admiration for Missy Elliott’s uniqueness and the powerful aura of artists like Trina Kim and Eve also played a role in shaping her musical aspirations.

Transition To Rap & Career Progression

Nicki Minaj’s songs influenced Kayykilo’s transition to rap. During her high school years, she took her first steps into the music world, producing a cover of Meek Mill’s “I’m a Boss” in a basement. Known as Kaycee back then, she consistently produced songs and shared them on YouTube.

Post-high school, Kayykilo had plans to elevate her career in Houston, Texas. However, life had other plans, and she found herself returning to Baton Rouge. After facing some personal challenges and becoming a mother, she temporarily lost interest in music. At 17, she moved to Atlanta, GA, and ventured into fitness training, even training Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Rico Love.

However, a life-threatening incident on New Year’s Eve in 2018 became a turning point for Kayykilo. After her recovery, she rekindled her passion for music. In June 2019, she released “Handstand,” which garnered significant attention. Her career took another leap when she opened for Burna Boy in September 2019. By November 2019, she dropped her EP You Ain’t Heard Yet, and in October 2020, she signed with DaBaby’s Billion Dollar Baby Ent record label.

Personal Life & Achievements

Apart from her music, Kayykilo has showcased her versatility by being a cheerleader and mastering the violin. While she remains private about her relationship status and her daughter’s father, her achievements in the music industry speak volumes about her dedication and talent.

Kayykilo’s journey, filled with ups and downs, is a testament to her resilience and passion for music. With an estimated net worth of $1 million in 2023, she stands as an inspiration to many aspiring artists. As she continues to produce hits and make her mark in the rap industry, there’s no doubt that her net worth and influence will only grow in the coming years.

The post Kayykilo Net Worth 2023: What Is The Rapper Worth? appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Erica Mena Details Affair With DJ Envy: “I Got A Phone Call From The Wife”

October 25, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Erica Mena has spoken out about her 2013 affair with DJ Envy, revealing that she was unaware he had a wife until she received a phone call from Gia Casey. The former Love & Hip Hop star reflected on the relationship during a new interview with Carlos King.

“That came out right when I got on Love and Hip Hop, and we had just broken up because the wife found out, which I was totally oblivious to. I knew about the kids, mind you; I have a kid, but I have a baby daddy, and it’s more common where we come from to have kids, but you’re not married; you just got a baby mama,” she told Carlos King. Mena added: “I knew about the kids, and it was always told to me [she was] his kid’s mother, never wife. And I didn’t get that realization until I got a phone call from the wife.”

DJ Envy & His Wife, Gia Casey, Attend NAACP Image Awards

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 22: (L-R) Gia Casey and DJ Envy attends the 51st N.A.A.C.P. Image Awards, Presented by BET, at Pasadena Civic Auditorium on February 22, 2020 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)

The comments come amid a rough stretch for both Mena and Envy. Mena was recently fired from Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta after using racial slurs during an argument with Spice. DJ Envy, on the other hand, is currently wrapped up in a scandal of his own after his longtime business partner, Cesar Pina, was arrested for fraud, last weekend. Check out Mena’s comments on her fling with DJ Envy below.

Erica Mena Reflects On DJ Envy Affair

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A post shared by The Neighborhood Talk (@theneighborhoodtalk)

Elsewhere in the interview, Mena discusses her childhood, modeling career, relationship with Safaree Samuels, and more. Be on the lookout for further updates on her and DJ Envy on HotNewHipHop.

[Via]

The post Erica Mena Details Affair With DJ Envy: “I Got A Phone Call From The Wife” appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Rihanna’s Comeback: 2 New Albums On the Horizon, But Tour Rumors Debunked

October 25, 2023 by newhiphopnews

The music world has been buzzing with anticipation as Rihanna is rumored to be on the cusp of a long-awaited comeback. After several breaks, the songstress is reportedly gearing up to delight her fans with not one but two new albums. While whispers of an upcoming tour have also circulated, a high-profile source has contradicted […]

The post Rihanna’s Comeback: 2 New Albums On the Horizon, But Tour Rumors Debunked appeared first on SOHH.com.

Hip-Hop Inspired Halloween Nail Art

October 25, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Halloween is just around the corner and that means less than a week to get a fresh set or a DIY mani. For years, hip-hop artists and celebs have been showcasing their Halloween-inspired nails (we’re looking at you, Megan Thee Stallion). We’ve compiled some of the hottest designs from celebs, nail artists, and ordinary people to give you some nail-aspiration for this spooky season.

Doja Cat’s “Paint the Town Red” is one of the hottest singles of the holiday season and nail artist @n4list on TikTok gives a whole tutorial on her “Paint the Town Red”-inspired set

Machine Gun Kelly (who has his own line of nail polish) got into the holiday spirit and showed off his nails on Instagram — Doja Cat’s “Paint the Town Red” is one of the hottest singles of the holiday season and nail artist @n4list on TikTok gives a whole tutorial on her “Paint the Town Red”-inspired set

The post Hip-Hop Inspired Halloween Nail Art first appeared on The Source.

The post Hip-Hop Inspired Halloween Nail Art appeared first on The Source.

[WATCH] Rick Ross Says He Would Take Dinner With Jay-Z Over $500k

October 25, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Rick Ross Thinks the Solution to Ari Lennox's Label Woes is Wingstop

With Jay-Z himself ending the viral debate taking over social media question would you rather lunch with Jay or $500, Rick Ross decided to chime in. The MMG boss explained why picking the brain of the Drug dealer-turned billionaire is more valuable than pocketing half a million dollars.

“I’ma take the dinner and I’ma tell you why,” Ross said in a video posted to his Instagram Stories. “In ’08 when I turned in my second album [Trilla], I had a meeting with Hov. We went to lunch. Philippe Chow, Manhattan — the orange chicken on the stick with the peanut sauce was the vibe at the time. Let me cut through the conversation.

“He said, ‘Rozay, versus writing to every beat you like, write to every record you could make work.’ He told me a quick story about ‘Big Pimpin.’ I said, ‘Okay, bet.’ I went from writing one record to every 80 beats I like, to writing 40 records out of every 80 beats I could make work.”

Rozay credited Hov’s advice with helping him level up as an artist which, in turn, brought him more success in the rap game and laid the foundation for his other lucrative business ventures.

“It took me to another level as a writer, another level as an artist,” he continued. “The amount of work I was putting out was next level. So you gotta ask yourself, are you ready to digest the knowledge or you just want to look at this watch at the table?”

Thoughts?