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Travis Scott Set To Release New Sneakers In Spring 2020

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Travis Scott and Nike have been rumored to be working together once again on an Air Max 270 React collaboration.

The rapper ruled the charts with his 2018 album, ASTROWORLD, which has since been the biggest hit of his career. It features popular songs such as Sicko Mode with Drake, and Yosemite. He most recently collaborated with fellow Houston rapper, Maxo Kream, for their song The Relays. 

The 28-year-old is also known for his work in fashion, as he has continuously dropped ASTROWORLD tour merchandise. He also created two of the most popular drops of 2019 with his Air Jordan 1 and Air Jordan 1 Lows. News of another collaboration between the two has recently surfaced for the Air Max 270 React which will release in a fully family size. Unlike this collection, all of Scott’s other lines were only released in men’s sizes.

His girlfriend, Kylie Jenner, is also no stranger to the fashion industry, but is most known for her work in makeup. Jenner even released a limited edition lip kit sold with Scott’s other tour merchandise. The kit features a black box with the words “I went to ASTROWORLD and all I got was this f*cking lip kit” on it.

Pictures of the sneakers have not yet surfaced, however one can assume that it will be synonymous with Scott’s signature line and feature some earth tones, as the color palette is described as having light cream, starfish, and dark hazel colors included.

 

Billie Eilish Launches New Clothing Line

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Billie Eilish recently collaborated with Los Angeles based clothing company, Freak City, for an exclusive 90s inspired line.

The 17-year-old rose to fame with her 2016 single, Ocean Eyes. Her debut EP, Don’t Smile At Me, was released in 2017 and reached the top 15 in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. She has also teamed up with artists Khalid for Lovely. She currently has seven gold and three platinum singles in the U.S.

The Bad Guy singer is known for her baggy, hip-hop inspired style, and now fans can shop online to look just like Eilish. She previously stated her reasoning for wearing baggy clothes, which is so that people do not sexualize her and only focus on her music. She announced the collaboration via Instagram by posting a picture of herself wearing some items from the collection.

The 10-piece Billie Eilish x Freak City collection is full of 90s inspired streetwear pieces such as sport bras, tube tops, hoodies covered in a spray painted print, biker shorts, and oversized shorts. Additionally, almost every piece is covered in graffiti. The collection ranges in price from $40 to $90 and includes sizes small to 2XL.

Eilish’s collection is available for preorder and will drop on September 16. Each purchase will also include a free digital copy of her latest album, WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? 

 

Khalid Earns First No. 1 Spot On R&B/Hip-Hop Charts With “Talk”

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Singer Khalid earned his first No. 1 spot on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay charts on the list dated Saturday, July 20 for his popular single Talk.

Before Talk, the 21-year-old reached a No. 2 high on the R&B/Hip-Hop airplay charts with Location back in 2017. He also appeared on Logic’s 1-800-273-8255, along with Alessia Cara. The song spent a week at No. 49 that same year.

The song appears on Khalid’s second studio album, Free Spirit, and has had tremendous success ever since its release. Talk has risen to 29.6 million in audience in the week ending July 14, according to Nielsen Music. This is a 14 percent rise compared with the previous week, helping Talk gain the chart’s weekly Greatest Gainer prize. Additionally, the album as a whole spent 12 weeks at No. 1 on the Top R&B Albums chart on the Billboard 200.

This ranking on the R&B/Hip-Hop charts is definitely something new for Khalid, as he is mainly noticed in the pop market. As far as the pop charts, Talk logs its fourth term on the Pop Songs chart. With rankings in both the pop and R&B/Hip-Hop charts, it becomes the first song to lead both lists since Bruno Mars’ That’s What I Like in 2017. The strong airplay of the song across all genres also helps Talk to secure a fifth straight week on the all-genre Radio Songs chart.

The singer is currently on tour in America until his last show in Miami, Florida on August 17.

 

Maxo Kream Releases New Album “Brandon Banks”

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Houston rapper Maxo Kream released his major label debut album, Brandon Banks, this past Friday.

Kream, whose real name is Emekwanem Ogugua Biosah Jr., was born in Houston in 1990 and is the son of a Nigerian father and African-American mother. He first gained notable attention with Maxo 187 in 2015, and followed the next year with The Persona Tape. He has a total of four mixtapes and two LPs.

This album comes after Maxo’s 2018 debut album, Punken. The album served as a mix of autobiographical recollection and included 14 songs, with Grannies, 5200 and Bussdown all serving as singles. The 29-year-old signed a one-and-a-half million dollar record deal with RCA shortly after.

Brandon Banks album cover represents the album’s theme which is his father. Maxo tells all about what it was like growing up with a parent behind bars, and having to mature at a young age. The 47 minute album’s name comes from an alias that Kream’s father used to use when he was engaging in illegal activities, according to Hot New Hip Hop. Artists featured on the album include fellow Houston rappers, Megan thee Stallion with She Live and Travis Scott on The Relays. ScHoolboy Q is also featured on the album’s most popular song, 3 AM, while A$AP Ferg is featured on Murda Blocc.

Kream currently has 1,417,296 monthly listeners on Spotify, with 57,607 of those coming from Houston. He is set to start his headlining tour for the album on October 16 in New Orleans. Other stops include Houston, Dallas, New York City, Washington D.C., and San Francisco.

 

New Music Alert: Big 24 BackDoor – “Get Exposed”

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Recently Lane Gang rapper Big 24 Backdoor released his music video for his new song, “Get Exposed,” . In the absence of Lane Gang mastermind Jimmy Wopo, Big 24 BackDoor and the rest of the Hill Street crew are back at it with clean visuals, filmed in California. With flashy cars as the backdrop and with the rest of the Lane Gang alongside, Big 24 BackDoor drips onto the scene with authority in his fresh new visual.

“They call me Big Duece, Big 24, Backdoor. The Lane is Bedford Whiteside and Chauncey, we were like a music group that we called Money Lane. When we started trying to push little things here and there, I wasn’t taking it too seriously but then when Wop passed I wanted to keep his name alive. Wop was the best out of Pittsburgh ever. Lane Gang for ever. Thats all I’m doing, I’m just trying to hold Wop down,” Big 24 BackDoor said.

This visual for “Get Exposed” is being released in support Big 24’s July 4th release called, BackDoorSeason. Coinciding with his performance in Pittsburgh opening up for rapper No Cap, the project will be available on all digital service providers including Apple and Spotify.

“We still on the Lane everyday and we help out the kids and try to contribute to the community to help,” Big 24 BackDoor said about life in Pittsburgh. “No cap the way they rap out here, the shi* is hard. We like gangsta rap a lot out here, but I like the drip and mu’fuckas with they own style. They own shit, like they don’t try to copy nobody.”

In the coming weeks the Lane Gang will continue to put out visuals from BackDoor and his most recent project.

“I got another video coming soon and we gonna drop that in the next few weeks too,” BackDoor added. “I’m looking for more shows out of town and I’m trying to keep dropping. I’ll prob drop another tape, geta big feature. I’m trying to make it out of Pittsburgh, I’m tired of being here, but at the same time I want to put on for the city and I know I gotta get out to make it.”

Apple Launches “Rap Life” Playlist

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Apple Music recently replaced its The A-List: Hip-Hop playlist which features contemporary rap artists and culture, and renamed it Rap Life.

Rapper J. Cole kicks off the rebranded playlist with his popular track, Under the Sun, which features DaBaby. He will appear on the cover throughout the week. Drake’s Money in the Grave featuring Rick Ross also makes an appearance, as well as Future’s 1000 Shooters and Lil Tecca’s Ransom.

Apple Music’s Global Editorial Head of Hip-Hop and R&B, Said Ebro Darden, said that the rebranding stems from wanting to tap into deeper music.

“Rap isn’t just a genre. There’s a reason it’s sometimes simply called The Culture: It’s a way of life. And this playlist—formerly known as The A-List: Hip-Hop—is where rap lives, breathes, and moves,” Darden said. “Topped today by J.Cole and the Dreamville crew’s Under the Sun, off their Revenge of the Dreamers III album, Rap Life is home to hip-hop’s heavy hitters and vanguard—the stars and the songs that speak to the moment and define the culture today.”

The playlist competes against Spotify’s popular RapCaviar playlist, which has more than 11 million followers and potentially more. Apple has also revealed they plan to have a Rap Life show on Apple Music’s Beats 1 which will feature music from playlist and cultural discussions about hip-hop. Darden is also set to host a companion Rap Life segment during his daily Beats 1 show.

Apple Music has been a leading streaming platform for hip-hop since 2015, and has reportedly surpassed Spotify in engagement for major releases like Drake’s Scorpion and More Life albums.

Tay-K Found Guilty of Murder

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Tay-K was found guilty of murder by a North Texas jury on Friday, July 19 for the 2016 slaying of Ethan Walker during a home invasion.

The 19-year-old rapper, whose real name is Taymor McIntyre, did not fire the gun which killed Walker, however he allegedly recruited the triggerman and organized the robbery. After a 15-year-old girl messaged him via Instagram asking him if he could get guns for the robbery, he responded to her saying that he did not have one, however he had a friend who did. The 21-year-old victim reportedly told the three, along with various other robbers that he did not have any drugs or money, and as a result, he was murdered.

The man who shot Walker was sentenced last year to life in prison. Prosecutors state that McIntyre is being charged with murder because he planned the whole thing.

The teen gained stardom following the murder after he went on the run and and recorded a song and video about it entitled The Race. The song hit No. 44 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts, and was even remixed by a number of artists including 21 Savage and YBN Nahmir.

Texas State District, Judge Wayne Salvant, said he is extremely frustrated with the song’s success, according to CBS News.

“It’s my understanding that people throughout this country have ‘Free Tay-K’ signs up or ‘goto’ funds to fund his defense and this court has a problem with that,” Salvant said. “I don’t know what this country has become when people can go out and allegedly commit heinous crimes and be glorified for it.”

The rapper is looking at anywhere from five to 99 years in prison.

Miley Cyrus Faces Backlash for Twerking Videos

Miley Cyrus faced criticism on Twitter for videos she posted of her twerking to Megan thee Stallion’s Simon Says.

The 26-year-old performed at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards, where she famously twerked on Robin Thicke. Many were shocked at her drastic attempt to distance herself from her Hannah Montana persona.

Cyrus posted the twerking videos on Thursday as a way to join the hot girl movement. She can be seen in her at-home workout studio, with the camera set up to record her reflection in the mirror. Megan even quoted the tweet, captioning it “Hot girl Miley ????.” However, the Wrecking Ball singer was quick to face backlash from many people on the internet. One user stated “Love miley but that sh*ts about as jiggly as a brick,” while another user said “watching miley cyrus trying to twerk is painful.”

One user even compared her twerking to Zoey dancing against the cashews in The Proud Family Movie. However, some users did come to her defense, saying that she was just having fun and that she has improved from her past twerking performances.

The singer quickly jumped to her own defense on Instagram after a user commented on whether or not she was good at twerking. Cyrus replied, “Literally doesn’t matter! Dancing health benefits: improved condition of your heart and lungs. increased muscular strength, endurance and motor fitness. increased aerobic fitness. improved muscle tone and strength. stronger bones and reduced risk of osteoporosis. better coordination, agility and flexibility. YASS PLEASE.”

 

 

R. Kelly States He Is Fine With Solitary Confinement

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Singer R. Kelly is reportedly scared for his life behind bars, as he has asked to be put in solitary confinement.

This comes after Kelly’s arrest for 20 sex tapes that show Kelly performing sexual acts with underage girls, which were turned in by some previous employees. Kelly will remain in prison for quite some time, as the judge denied bond during Tuesday’s hearing, as he is considered “an extreme danger to the community, especially underage girls”, according to TMZ. He is awaiting trial on a 13-count indictment involving charges such as child pornography, enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity, and obstruction of justice.

The singer is also facing racketeering charges in a five-count Brooklyn federal indictment for allegedly setting up a nationwide sex ring.

Kelly’s attorney, Nicole Blank Becker, said she recently visited the singer in prison where he told her that solitary is the best option for him, as he fears what other inmates who know of his case will do to him. He also stated that he feels a lot safer by himself.

However, his attorney said that this creates a problem because Kelly has no one to depend on. He cannot read or write which makes deciphering the commissary list a difficult task. He only has access to a phone for 15 minutes a month to speak with family and friends, while regular inmates can use the phone whenever they please. He also does not have access to TV or the internet.

An extradition hearing is set to be brought to Brooklyn to face the additional charges and will occur sometime on or before September 4, according to authorities.

 

A$AP Rocky Jail Time Extended

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A judge has sided with Swedish prosecutors and decided that A$AP Rocky will remain in jail for another week while prosecutors continue their investigation.

A$AP, who has already spent two weeks in jail, is said to be living in dirty and inhumane conditions, while the man who he allegedly assaulted has not spent any time in custody even though Rocky claims the men harassed his crew and even hit his security guard with a pair of headphones, according to TMZ. This means Rocky will be in jail for three weeks before any charges are filed.

Prosecutors stated that they will make their final decision by next Thursday, even though the original press release from this Friday states that they are going to indict Rocky. They later sent out a revised one that simply stated Rocky must remain in jail so that they can make their final decision. Additionally, prosecutors said they must keep the rapper in custody because he is a flight risk.

Kanye West and Kim Kardashian are said to be working with President Donald Trump to help free the rapper. Kanye allegedly encouraged Kim to talk to Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, who Kim has previously collaborated with on her other White House work. Others involved include Members of the Congressional Black Caucus who have called out Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for not doing enough and claim the State Department isn’t moving fast enough.

Celebrities such as Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, Tyler, the Creator, and T.I. have all expressed their support in the fight to free Flacko.

 

Quizes in Hip Hop: Kase Cobain

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What is your favorite era of hip hop?

My favorite era of Hip-Hop would have to be from 2000-2010. I was born in 1995 so I didn’t get to experience the 90s era of Hip-Hop.

How has each era influenced your writing and lyrics? Who is your favorite artist from each decade and why?

The 90s era influenced me to stay true to real Hip-Hop and not get lazy with my lyrics. The 2000 era influenced my hooks and melody. 50 Cent is an artist who comes to mind. He was a master at making a catchy hook.

What is your opinion of the evolution of hip hop?

My opinion on the evolution of Hip-Hop is that over time the complexity of the music switched up. Before it was the lyrics that were complex but now the lyrics have been “dumbed” down and put on more complex production. Beats back in the day were simpler and were boom bap type of beats.

What is your plan to add to the legacy of hip hop?

My plan to add to the legacy of of Hip-Hop is to be myself and stay true to my influences and those who paved the way for me.

Where do you see it in 5 years?

In the next 5 years I know I’ll be in a better position than I am now. I’m gonna make sure of it.

Get A Taste Of Kase Cobain’s Hip Hop Knowledge Prowess Here

 

New Music Alert: Nardo Mula & Jonnii2Timez – “Mula Financial” (Mixtape)

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South Carolina natives Nardo Mula and Jonnii2Timez are on a run this year! First, Bigga Rankin co-signs and now they team up with the legendary DJ Scream to shake up the streets with their new project Mula Financial. The summer just got 10x hotter!

STREAM/DOWNLOAD: Nardo Mula & Jonnii2Timez – Mula Financial (Hosted By DJ Scream) [Mixtape]

New Music Alert: Buck Em – “On Da Way” | @MrBuckEm

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MyPartnaDem Ent. presents Buck Em’s new single “On Da Way” produced by Tasha Cotour & Tino On Da Track. Stream below via SoundCloud or purchase on iTunes.

Movie Review: The Lion King Starring Beyonce & Donald Glover

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Written by: LaTasha Givens

The Lion King is already a great story about love, loss, family conflict and friendship. Its really a coming of age story about deciding who you want to be and how you will respond to life’s challenges.

But I honestly went to just see my bestie Beyonce (she doesn’t know that we’re best friends yet). Nala was as amazing we all knew that she would be. The moment I heard her voice I got chills. What I didn’t expect was for the movie to be so good!! It’s the only remake I have ever seen that was better than the original.

[videopress waGiDr50 w=”600″]

 

               THE BEGINNING

I cried at the opening, laughed a lot in the middle and then cried again at the end. In a surprising way, the opening took me back to giving birth to my boys.  As parents we all have a dreams and plans for our families and there’s nothing more magical and spiritual than bringing life into the world.

                THE MIDDLE

The characters played their roles very close to the original script. Mufasa with his comforting voice brings you peace as he teaches baby Simba life lessons.

 Nala and Simba are just too adorable. The film is so real to life that I actually want Lion cubs in my backyard, I know very Mike Tyson of me. 

I love the friendship between Simba, Pumbaa and Timon. It’s a reminder how the people we need in our lives at particular times will appear organically, sometimes in a different package or “pack” than our own. 

Scar is as evil as ever, and possibly scarier in this version. The musicality matched his every move which created anticipation. So even though you knew what he was going to do next, you were still scared.

I love seeing the strength of the lionesses after Mufasa was killed and all the other lions were chased off the land. The women did not leave even though they could have. With cubs by their side, they did their best to keep Pride Rock strong under Scar’s terrible regime. If it weren’t for them, I don’t think it would have sustained until Simba returned.

 THE END

Nala and Simba reunite closer to the end of the movie. Mufasa’a spirit is reawakened in Simba. From there he was able to get rid of all the guilt and shame he had bottled up inside that crippled him for years. With Nala’s help, he was finally able to become who he was supposed to be, another life lesson. They go back together and fight for what is rightfully theirs and of course, they are triumphant.

 OTHER HIGHLIGHTS 

The cinematography is superb. Because of how well it’s shot, I literally thought I was going to fall off Pride Rock at times. I was reminded of why I don’t like roller coasters. Seeing the details on some of the smallest creatures flying and crawling across the screen was beautiful.

Note to parents of young children. We have a 4 year old and a two year old. Last year when we finally got around to reading Lion King, our oldest son got really scared when we turned the page and he saw Mufasa falling. So we told him Mufasa hurt his leg and was in the hospital with his goldfish. He now knows that he actually died. He was so sad and couldn’t wrap his head around why Scar would kill him. Because of the emotion around that and the scariness of Scar in this movie, we won’t take our boys to see at this time. It is a phenomenal movie, I think it may be better suited for children 6 or older.

I would give it 5 stars but Beyoncé prefers the number 4.