New Hip Hop News

Breaking Down Yasiin Bey’s Most Influential Tracks

January 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

A lyrical virtuoso and master of storytelling, Yasiin Bey has consistently pushed the boundaries of rap with fire tracks. Since he was known as Mos Def of Black Star, the rapper has used his unique blend of intelligence, wit, and social consciousness to craft songs that transcend time and trends. As a result of his impact and immense talent, he is often cited as one of the greatest, yet underrated rappers of all time.

For some days now, Yasiin Bey has been trending since he claimed Drake’s music is more pop than rap. Following his statement, the rapper has faced backlash from Drizzy, as well as from his fans. In the same vein, Bey has also been supported by another sect of listeners. Regardless of their current beef, both emcees are Hip Hop heavyweights, albeit from different eras. Yasiin Bey has been making music for over three decades now. Many Hip Hop heads would call him a rapper’s rapper, and admittedly, he has some very influential songs in his catalog. Here’s a list of some of the best ones in his solo discography.

7. “Brown Sugar (fine)” (2002)

Released on September 24, 2002, “Brown Sugar” is a part of the soundtrack for the rom-com film, Brown Sugar. The song is soulful, masterfully produced by Kanye West, and features expertly executed rap bars from Yasiin Bey. In addition, in usual Kanye fashion, he samples the song “Invitation” by Norman Connors. Not only is this track a masterpiece in terms of rap performance, but also in terms of production. Both Yasiin Bey and Kanye West exhibited amazing chemistry on what is unarguably one of Bey’s most unforgettable tracks.

6. “Hip Hop” (1999)

Appearing on his debut solo album, Black On Both Sides (1999), “Hip Hop” is a raw, gritty, and thought-provoking song. Besides its impressive production, the lyrics of “Hip Hop” are a poignant commentary on the commercialization and commodification of Hip Hop. Furthermore, Yasiin Bey’s delivery is passionate and energetic, perfectly complementing the rebellious tone of the song. “Hip Hop” is conscious rap at its peak. It is one of the standout tracks in a stellar catalog that Yasiin Bey should always be proud of.

5. “Oh No” Ft. Nate Dogg & Pharoahe Monch (2000)

“Oh No,” released on November 28, 2000, is a part of the Lyricist Lounge 2 compilation album. While it is known for its infectious and groovy production, the song is also a masterclass in songwriting. Emphatically, the verses on the song display the lyrical prowess of the performers as they flawlessly ride the beat. Additionally, this track has been a perfect example to subsequent generations of rappers of what a successful collaboration between rappers should sound like. Nate Dogg and Pharoahe Monch’s verse is also worthy of note for its succinct lyricism.

4. “Mathematics” (1999)

This standout track from Yasiin Bey’s solo debut album has been renowned and acclaimed by listeners since its release. It features a production style that allows the rapper’s lyrics to take center stage. Furthermore, the lyrics of “Mathematics” address a wide range of social, political, and economic issues. On what is undoubtedly one of his most influential tracks, Yasiin Bey uses mathematical concepts as metaphors to discuss these issues. While it failed to chart, “Mathematics” remains a timeless song and a seminal piece of Hip Hop in Bey’s discography.

3. “Umi Says” (1999)

Another stellar entry in the musical catalog of Yasiin Bey, “Umi Says” is often regarded as one of his signature tracks. The song is notable for its smooth and jazzy production, as well as Bey’s poetic lyricism and soulful delivery. With lyrics that delve into the rapper’s personal reflections on life and identity, “Umi Says” expresses Bey’s yearning for freedom and individuality. Accordingly, the song’s timeless message has contributed to its enduring popularity, making it a fan favorite and critical success. “Umi Says” never achieved mainstream chart success. However, it is recognized as a defining track in Yasiin Bey’s discography.

2. “Auditorium” Ft. Slick Rick (2009)

Without a doubt, “Auditorium” is one of the best tracks Yasiin Bey recorded on his fourth album, The Ecstatic. Not only is it a collaboration with legendary Hip Hop producer Madlib, but it also features a sick verse from Slick Rick. The beat features a blend of jazz, soul, and psychedelic elements, creating a captivating backdrop for Bey’s lyricism. Each verse is a poetic exploration, and the rappers’ delivery is both introspective and socially conscious. Since its release, “Auditorium” has received widespread acclaim from fans, which comes as no surprise, considering its excellence. As far as Yasiin Bey tracks go, this is undoubtedly one of the rapper’s most influential.

1. “Ms. Fat Booty” (1999)

Arguably the most quintessential of Yasiin Bey tracks, “Ms. Fat Booty” was released as the lead single from his debut album. The song is celebrated for its storytelling, clever lyrics, and memorable production. It is also notable for its iconic sampling of Aretha Franklin’s “One Step Ahead.” Interestingly, that exact same sample was used in JID’s recent viral hit, “Surround Sound.” “Ms. Fat Booty” remains a defining track in the rapper’s discography. Additionally, it is often cited as one of the greatest Hip Hop songs of its era. Its massive cultural impact makes it arguably Yasiin Bey’s most influential track.

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Kodak Black’s Lawyers Call For Drug Charges To Be Dropped

January 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Last month, Kodak Black was arrested by police and hit with a few charges, including for drug possession. Though he pretty quickly pleaded not guilty to the accusations he’s been held in jail ever since for violating his probation. Police claim that Kodak was discovered with white powder around his mouth which he tried to hide from police. The charges filed against him claim that the substance was cocaine but his lawyers have denied that right out of the gate. His attorney denied that the substance was cocaine, claiming instead that it was Percocet.

Since the arrest, Kodak Black’s lawyers have been fighting to get him free. One of their first attempts was to get him released into a drug rehab program. Despite his clear struggle with substances, the judge denied that request. In the reasoning given, the judge described Kodak as a “danger to the community” as a justification for not releasing him. The news kept getting even worse for Kodak in the weeks that followed. News broke that he could end up being forced to serve a previously pardoned jail sentence. He famously had a sentence commuted by Donald Trump a few years ago but may end up having to serve that time anyway. Check out the latest developments in the story below.

Kodak Black’s Lawyers Fighting Drug Charges

Now in their newest legal move, Kodak’s lawyers are once again calling for his drug charges to be dropped. According to TMZ, in newly filed legal documents they claim that new tests have confirmed exactly what they said about the powder found on Kodak. Reportedly, his defense has evidence that it was in fact Oxycodone which he also reportedly has a prescription for.

The judge hasn’t made a ruling on the filing yet. The call will seemingly be determined by how strong the evidence presented by the rapper’s defense actually is. What do you think of Kodak Black’s lawyers claiming his drug case should be dismissed after new tests? Do you think the drug charges will be dropped before Kodak goes to trial? Let us know in the comment section below.

[Via]

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‘WWE 2K24’ Unveils Cody Rhodes, Bianca Belair, and Rhea Ripley as Cover Stars

January 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Today, 2K announced the much-anticipated WWE® 2K24, the latest installment in the flagship WWE video game franchise. Developed by Visual Concepts, the game is set to release on PlayStation® 5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam. The announcement brought a surprise revelation as “The American Nightmare” Cody Rhodes graces the cover of the Standard Edition, while multi-time champions Bianca Belair and Rhea Ripley share the Deluxe Edition cover—a historic first for two women on a dedicated WWE 2K cover. The Forty Years of WrestleMania Edition features original artwork celebrating iconic Superstars and Legends like The Rock, The Undertaker, Hulk Hogan, and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin.

“I’ve been known to keep a checklist of key milestones I want to experience on the path to finishing my story,” said Cody Rhodes. “As an avid gamer, being named WWE 2K cover Superstar is very, very close to the top of that list and I’m very happy to work with the teams at 2K and Visual Concepts to bring that dream to life.”

“This is an incredible milestone in my career and I’m so excited to show the world why WWE 2K24 is a must-have and the EST game for every WWE fan and gamer,” said Bianca Belair.

“I’ve proven myself to be the most dominant competitor to ever hold the WWE Women’s World Championship,” said Rhea Ripley, “Earning the accolade of WWE 2K24 cover Superstar is only fitting, and I’m proud to add it to my list of accomplishments.”

“Fresh off the highest-rated game in franchise history, the WWE 2K development team continues to build on that quality,” said Greg Thomas, President at Visual Concepts. “WWE 2K24 offers more match types, new MyRISE storylines and characters, improvements to gameplay throughout, a 2K Showcase 40 years in the making, and so much more. I’m very proud of the work the team has done to bring this experience to life, and I look forward to seeing players enjoy the game.”

WWE 2K24 promises several franchise advancements, including the 2K Showcase…of the Immortals, a celebration of 40 years of WrestleMania. New match types such as Ambulance and Special Guest Referee, two MyRISE experiences, and a roster of over 200 WWE Superstars and Legends, including Roman Reigns, Becky Lynch, and John Cena, enhance the gaming experience. Improved graphics, animations, and gameplay upgrades contribute to the most visually impressive WWE 2K installment to date.

The Deluxe Edition and Forty Years of WrestleMania Edition are set for worldwide release on March 5, 2024, with the Standard Edition and Standard Cross-Gen Digital Edition following on March 8, 2024.

In addition to the cover stars, WWE 2K24 introduces:

2K Showcase…of the Immortals: Relive iconic moments from 40 years of WrestleMania, playing through monumental events with the distinctive Slingshot Tech for an immersive experience.
Iconic Roster: Featuring WWE Legends like “Stone Cold” Steve Austin and Undertaker alongside current Superstars such as Cody Rhodes, Bianca Belair, and Roman Reigns.
New Match Types and Gameplay Upgrades: Four new match types, including Special Guest Referee and Ambulance Match, along with improved animations and gameplay features.
MyRISE: A unique career mode experience with new storylines, Undisputed (men’s) and Unleashed (women’s), putting players in control of custom-created Superstars.
Universe and Creation Suite: Expanded features in WWE Universe mode and the renowned Creation Suite, providing players with detailed customization options.
MyFACTION: The team-building mode returns with new features, including a direct purchase card market and updated multiplayer experience.

The WWE 2K24 Deluxe Edition and Forty Years of WrestleMania Edition include exclusive bonus content and a Season Pass for post-launch DLC content packs.

Fans can pre-order the game to receive the Nightmare Family Pack, featuring playable Superstars like Cody Rhodes and Dusty Rhodes, among others. Digital pre-orders also include the Standard Edition of WWE 2K23.

Prepare for an immersive WWE gaming experience as 2K delivers its latest installment, promising excitement for fans and gamers alike.

The post ‘WWE 2K24’ Unveils Cody Rhodes, Bianca Belair, and Rhea Ripley as Cover Stars first appeared on The Source.

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Mobster Admits To Stealing ‘Wizard of Oz’ Red Slippers

January 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Unless you have been living under a rock, there’s this beloved film you may have heard of called The Wizard of Oz. Storytime… The 1938 classic fantasy adventure stars Judy Garland as this girl named Dorothy who, along with her little terrier, is whisked away by a tornado, to well, Oz, and she meets a few magical friends, and the rest is history. Oh, one more thing. Dorothy wore these ruby red shoes that gave her the ability to escape back to Kansas …

Now back in the real world, like not Hollywood, those iconic ruby red slippers are nearly priceless. Like $3.5 million CASH. There was a smash-and-grab robbery back in 2005, and finally, the case has been cracked. A stone-cold mobster named Terry Jon Martin confessed to stealing one of the most iconic cinema props ever. The button man admitted to the heist. Check this: he did it with a simple hammer to, as mentioned, smash a display case that was housing the slippers. Who’s idea was that? Anyway, this guy thought the bedazzled slippers were REAL rubies, you know, jewels, and that motivated him to attempt the caper. He’s not a complete tool, with all due respect to the gangster, as the shoes were, in fact, insured for a cool $1 million bucks.

Back in 2018, the slippers finished dancing around the fencing circuit and were recovered. So, Martin was eventually arrested and pled guilty to the theft. He’s 76 and isn’t going to jail. He’s in a hospice and has maybe six months before he departs, no pun intended, so the judge took it easy on him and pretty much let him slide. In any event, the case is solved.

The post Mobster Admits To Stealing ‘Wizard of Oz’ Red Slippers first appeared on The Source.

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Essence Atkins Raps Public Enemy Bars When Asked About Hip-Hop 50

January 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

In the movie One Night Stay, Marcus (Stephen Bishop) seemingly has it all — money, a mansion, a beautiful wife — until a one-night stand with Jessica (Iyana Halley) goes horribly awry. Instead of leaving Marcus’ palatial mansion, obsessive Jessica finds herself a place to hide, making it her residence. Marcus and Milan (LeToya Luckett) go about their life with no idea they have an unwelcome houseguest living with them.

Developed by Jenna Frank and Zach Hunter under the Beautiful Orchid Media label, One Night Stay was written by Curtis Cardwell. The film was directed by Rick S. Mordecon and premiered on BET+ on January 4th, 2024.

The Source had the opportunity to chat with the cast about Hip Hop 50.

Hip hop just celebrated its 50th anniversary. What was the moment that you guys fell in love with Hip-Hop?

Stephen Bishop: I fell in love with Hip-Hop, listening to Sugarhill Gang. That’s when I fell in love. “Rapper’s Delight.” I listened to it, it had to be 40, 50 times back to back to back. It was on an album, and I sat in front of the record player and kept putting it back, kept putting it back. Trying to learn the words, and I’m still in love with Hip-Hop. As you can see, I’m wearing a Redman shirt. I listen to Hip-Hop 95% of the time when I’m listening to music.

This is The Source magazine, right? Little known fact. I was Unsigned Hype in January of 2000. In the Source Magazine. So I am a Hip-Hop kid. I am a Hip-Hop head. Hip-Hop has been such a beautiful theme, background music through my life. No matter what I’m doing, it’s always been there. Look what it’s done to the world. Sugarhill Gang is what made me fall in love with Hip-Hop.

Robert Riley: “I want to rock right now, I’m Rob Base and came to get down. I’m not internationally known, but I’m known to rock a microphone. ‘Cause I get stupid, I mean outrageous. Stay away from me if you’re contagious. No, I’m not a loser, to be an MC is what I choose-a.” Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock “It Takes Two.”

Iyana Halley: For me, my parents, especially my dad loved Hip-Hop growing up. I remember being a kid, LL Cool J and all these people would be playing on the TV. I’m singing these songs, I probably had no business singing at all. It’s stemmed from my parents. Even to this day, I’m obsessed with Nicki Minaj, and those types of — especially female rappers is my favorite. I love Hip-Hop.

Essence Atkins: For me, I was probably 18 or 19 and it was “Burn Hollywood Burn. I smell a riot going on, first your guilty now they’re gone yeah. I’ll check out a movie, but it’ll take a Black one to move me.” Public Enemy.

Stephen Bishop: It’s amazing man. I just thought had another thought. Sugarhill Gang made me fall in love with it, but I have to give credit to Nas for inspiring me to become a writer and really put my poetry, which I was already writing to music. He showed me that it wasn’t — Nas was different. There was a lot of rappers, but Nas was a poet. His writing and his voice was another instrument in the music. If you took the music away, there was still a rhythm to his voice and to his writing. Sugarhill Gang made me fall in love, Nas made me become obsessed with the art form of it.

What were you in The Source for? For Unsigned Hype?
Stephen Bishop: Riggs Morales was there at the time, and Carlito. They got one of my demos and it was more of a spotlight, a feature of an up and coming artist who was unsigned at the time. Look out for this, it was the one with DMX on the cover. January 2000.

The post Essence Atkins Raps Public Enemy Bars When Asked About Hip-Hop 50 first appeared on The Source.

The post Essence Atkins Raps Public Enemy Bars When Asked About Hip-Hop 50 appeared first on The Source.

1500 or Nothin’ Honors Nipsey Hussle w/ New Collection From Anti Social Social Club

January 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Nipsey Hussle will forever be celebrated.

In celebration of 1500 or Nothin’ Day, which took place a week ago on January 15th with a standout surprise appearance from Dave Chappelle, the Los Angeles-based collective is now honoring the late Nipsey Hussle in a major way. Over the weekend, they announced their new collection in collaboration with Anti Social Social Club, featuring limited edition hoodies, shirts, and accessories.

Designed by 1500 or Nothin’ co-founder James Fauntleory, the collection is aptly titled Heaven’s Angels, as well as family and friends of the Grammy-award winning musical ensemble. The collection also supports 1500 Sound Academy, the trailblazing music school located in Inglewood, California, with a mission to empower the next generation of recording artists and producers.

Flaunteroy speaks on the collaboration, stating “”We had the opportunity to do something about more than clothes.. The collection is a tribute to resilience and a nod to the enduring legacy of both creativity and the human spirit. I wanted to pay respect to those who’ve heavily impacted this story, and celebrate the spirit of 1500 Day.”

A standout item from the collection includes a special tribute to Nipsey Hussle, with “LLNH” (standing for Long Live Nipsey Hussle) featured on the arm of the hoodie, as well as the names of Carlos McSwain (Snoop Dogg’s former drummer), Charles “Uncle Chucc” Hamilton (a former member of 1500 or Nothin’), rapper Brandon “G.I. Joe” Joseph, and more.

“Our products have always shown up in the hip-hop space, and we’re excited to be collaborating with James and Rance, who have played a big role in defining what hip-hop sounds like today,” says Anti Social Social Club. “1500 or Nothin’ has been a driving force behind many of the greatest hits of our time. With a collection called “Heaven’s Angels,” ASSC is proud to play an ode to some of their past friends and collaborators who helped them get to where they are.”

All the items feature graphics designed by Fauntleroy, such as the hoodie, long sleeve tee, short sleeve tee, coaches bag, Nalgene bottle, and dad cap. The prices range from $35 to $99, available now to shop on ADDC’s online store.

The post 1500 or Nothin’ Honors Nipsey Hussle w/ New Collection From Anti Social Social Club first appeared on The Source.

The post 1500 or Nothin’ Honors Nipsey Hussle w/ New Collection From Anti Social Social Club appeared first on The Source.

BET+ Scripted Series Releases Trailer for ‘Perimeter’ From Director of ‘Maxine’s Baby: The Tyler Perry Story’

January 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Armani Ortiz, co-director of Maxine’s Baby: The Tyler Perry Story is behind Perimeter, the new original series from BET+ taking viewers on a unique journey of intertwining stories in the 1990s. On deck to star on the series is Ava Mone’t, Tatyana Ali, Donovan Christie Jr., Malcolm Xavier and Wes Montez. Ortiz is writing and directing and with Perimeter set to premiere on the streamer on Feb. 29.

The four episode order set in Atlanta during the 1990s follows the interwoven stories of a Spelman sophomore, a bad boy, a mayoral candidate and others in stories that include Freaknik and the Atlanta Olympics as the major backdrop of the era.

Here’s official description from BET+:

In Atlanta, in the 1990’s a complex web of personal stories unfolds. Paige, a promising Spelman sophomore, veers off her path to success when she falls for a “bad boy” just before the pivotal “Freaknik” event. Adulthood disrupts their lives, pulling Paige, her long-term boyfriend Malcolm, and newcomer Romeo into a series of challenges. Amidst Atlanta’s global Olympic spotlight, eventual mayor Robert Dawn’s rise to power comes at the price of personal sacrifices and moral dilemmas. These interconnected stories set off a transformative chain reaction in the city, echoing Dante’s words: “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.”

The post BET+ Scripted Series Releases Trailer for ‘Perimeter’ From Director of ‘Maxine’s Baby: The Tyler Perry Story’ first appeared on The Source.

The post BET+ Scripted Series Releases Trailer for ‘Perimeter’ From Director of ‘Maxine’s Baby: The Tyler Perry Story’ appeared first on The Source.

WATCH: Kevin Gates Gives Emotional Speech About Overcoming Trauma At Album Release Party In LA

January 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Kevin Gates is gearing up to release his highly-anticipated forthcoming album titled The Ceremony, and he’s celebrating in a major way.

On Friday, Jan. 19th, the Louisiana native hosted an exclusive, invite-only album release party in downtown Los Angeles, taking over Savanna rooftop for an evening for the books. The event was an all-black affair, with Gates stealing the show in an all-white tuxedo.

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When it came time for Gates to take the stage, he opened up to the crowd about how far he’s come, and how his past does not define him.

“It was the reuniting of myself,” Kevin Gates states. “I finally learned to love the stranger that was once myself. Anybody in here that’s dealing with anything that they’ve been through, past traumatically or any type of traumas, I want you to know one thing: we are not our pasts. We’re nothing that we ever did in the past. We are only the face of the circumstances and the decisions that we made. We have today and forever to always make the right decisions and correct everything, and love everything.”

He adds, “What makes Ceremony so important is I learned to love the stranger that was once myself. Nothing external ever adds value. From the inside is what comes.”

Anyone who knows Kevin Gates personally knows he’s a man of God and walks in his faith. His ability to inspire and motivate fans to become the best version of themselves goes further than any hit record, plaque, or accolade.

The evening was nothing short of a celebration, and we’re excited to hear the new album!

The post WATCH: Kevin Gates Gives Emotional Speech About Overcoming Trauma At Album Release Party In LA first appeared on The Source.

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