Several reports have confirmed that Leon Youngblood Jr., better known as the producer “Roccstar”, turned the tables on a would-be robber during a home invasion at his Chatsworth, California home.

The 33-year-old producer was alerted of the burglar on the roof of his garage early Monday morning. Roccstar engaged in a physical confrontation with the intruder, holding him at gunpoint until the police arrived to arrest the intruder. The longtime producer of controversial crooner Chris Brown uploaded a video to IG about the incdent.

Roccstar also inquired the media as to why they didn’t mention the intruder’s race in any of the news reports.

The post Chris Brown’s Producer Roccstar Holds Home Invader at Gunpoint Until Arrest appeared first on The Source.

Juvenile Hell was the first album by duo Mobb Deep that paved the path for many other East Coast rappers of their genre, which only a few know preceded their most revered LP, The Infamous.

Dubbed as one of the most acclaimed East Coast rap duos of all time, MCs Havoc and Prodigy came together to release their first album, Juvenile Hell on this day, April 13, 1993. Hailing from Queensbridge Housing projects in New York City, Mobb Deep was rather young when they released their first album, at the early age of 19.

At the time of its’ release, Juvenile Hell wasn’t received on groundbreaking levels. The new sound of the duo was too hardcore for some, very street-oriented, and the album provided one major single entitled “Hit it from the Back”; which peaked at 18 on the Billboard Hot Rap Singles chart that same year. It wouldn’t be until later that Mobb Deep would become a Hip Hop classic and household name. In time they have gained longevity with their sound inspiring practically all other east coast rappers of their caliber. Had it not been for their first album, and their street poetry over tracks produced by the likes of DJ Premier and Large Professor, the map would never have been drawn for much of the major East Coast sound.

The post Today in Hip-Hop History: Mobb Deep’s Debut Album ‘Juvenile Hell’ Turns 30 Years Old! appeared first on The Source.

In an exclusive interview with Big Boy for the Untold Stories of Snoop Dogg, the Doggfather himself delved into the strained relationship between him and Death Row labelmate Tupac Shakur in the months leading up to his untimely demise in September 1996.

He says he and ‘Pac were on good terms the week before his death, but the public comments made about Puff Daddy and Biggie made things more complicated for the Long Beach newcomer.

“Man, I’d say a week before he died, we was best of friends. Two days before he died, I don’t think he liked me,” Snoop said. “Because we was in New York and shit had happened. New York n-ggas had shot at me and did all kinds of shit to me, just the worst shit you could think of, and I forgave ’em.”

Snoop added, “Then I went and did an interview and was asked how did I feel about Puffy and Biggie. I was like, ‘I like them n-ggas, I wanna do some music with ’em. And that just rubbed cuz the wrong way, like, ‘N-gga, fuck them n-ggas, them n-ggas tried to kill me. N-ggas shot at you, and you talking about you wanna do a song with them n-ggas?’”

“Even when he played the video for me to ‘Hit ‘Em Up,’ even when he played ‘Hit ‘Em Up,’ the song, I didn’t like the song,” he said. “I didn’t like it. I didn’t like the shit. It wasn’t the shit to me. Like, you buying more problems, cuh. You buying problems. Gangstas is everywhere. They make ’em everywhere.”

See the entire interview above.

The post [WATCH] Snoop Dogg Says He Didn’t Like 2Pac’s Biggie Smalls Diss Track “Hit ‘Em Up” appeared first on The Source.

On one of the the more recent episodes of Ray Daniels’ Goats and Underdogs podcast, former Source Magazine owner Ray Benzino claimed that Outkast’s Andre 3000 and his “The South got something to say” speech at the 1995 Source Awards was aimed directly at him.

Benzino said, “The reason why André 3000 said what he did, I’ma have to tell y’all this story. When they was giving OutKast 4.5 mics, I remember, I didn’t understand it. I didn’t understand the music and I was the one who kinda raised some situations up at ‘The Source,’ I’m gonna admit it. And I was wrong. I think it got to OutKast. And I think that’s why André said what he said. I think that was kinda directed toward me.”

See the footage of the podcast below.

The post [WATCH] Benzino: ‘Andre 3K’s 1995 Source Awards Speech Was Meant For Me’ appeared first on The Source.

New York rapper Lil Mama and reality TV personality Sukihana have had a recent back-and-forth on social media.  Sukihana recently appeared in NLE Choppa’s new video for his song, “Slut Me Out (Remix).”  In one scene, the Love & Hip-Hop star can be seen on all fours while NLE Choppa pulls her hair.  Rapper Sexy Redd was on all fours as well, next to Sukihana.

Lil Mama took to Twitter to discuss the scene, but she deleted the post shortly after.  But it was too late as Sukihana saw the comment and decided to respond.

“They said the girl ‘lil mama’ that sing that lip gloss song was in the comments speaking on me.  If I was y’all I would tell her leave me tf alone”

– Sukihana

Lil Mama decided to respond in a respectful way.

“Hey, I know we don’t know each other personally.  I’m seeing you wrote a post addressing me and I never addressed you personally.  You could have been any Blacc woman in that video I posted a comment under.  The way I feel still stands.”

– Lil Mama

The “Lip Gloss” rapper also added that she didn’t want to offend Sukihana or anyone else, which is why she deleted her original reaction. Lil Mama also mentioned the image that Sukihana is giving off affects her daughters and other young girls.

Sukihana used Lil Mama’s memorable on-stage moment with Jay-Z and Alicia Keys to clap back.

“They said Lil mama think she better then people just because she got to perform on stage with Jayz and Alicia keys”

– Sukihana

Many people were on Lil Mama’s side as they took to the comments to express similar views.  NLE Choppa also stepped in and vowed it was all just entertainment.

The post Lil Mama and Sukihana Have Social Media Exchange Over Black Women ‘Dog Walk’ Visual in NLE Choppa’s “Slut Me Out” Video appeared first on The Source.

The beef between Atlanta-based crews YFN and YSL goes back almost a decade to 2015 when Donovan “Big Nut” Thomas was killed in a drive-by shooting. This rift has caused almost 50 untimely deaths, and indictments handed down to both Young Thug and YFN Lucci, with both sides behind bars during the infamous YSL RICO trial. Now, the beef has spilled over into prison.

Footage has surfaced online of an inmate who’s an alleged affiliate of YFN beating a YSL member while he was tied to a facility toilet. The victim’s mouth was covered, and could be seen screaming in pain after every hit. In the end, it appears that the YFN member tried to peel off the YSL member’s crew tattoo with a razor. The entire incident was recorded by the assailant.

The post [WATCH] Alleged YFN Member Ties Up YSL Member and Assaults Him in Prison appeared first on The Source.

Yesterday, famed street legend and Terror Squad member PistolPete linked up with G-Unit lieutenant Tony Yayo in the streets of NYC, giving props to each other— gangster to gangster.

With the rest of the G-Unit soldiers sporting TS baseball caps, Yayo recounts the 2006 beef with the BX-based crew headed by Fat Joe.

“Yo, the realest beef was with Terror Squad,” Tony Yayo said. “He was a real n-gga, I gotta give it up. The realest beef was with Fat Joe and them. We outside.” Pistol Pete resplied, “Tony Yayo, we fuck with you, though. We out here in the trenches, n-gga. We out here, fuck all that. We out here together, n-gga, a bunch of real n-ggas.”

The post [WATCH] Tony Yayo Says The Realest Beef Was With Fat Joe And Terror Squad appeared first on The Source.

Earlier this week, the mother of late production great J Dilla opened up her son’s catalovia STEM Player, dropping ten new songs in an exclusive partnership between the Yancey family and STEM.

The new catalog of songs – as well as an exclusive mini from the eyes of Ma Dukes on J DILLA’s legacy, will be available to all subscribers, which will be instantly accessible to all Stem Player customers.

Alex Klein, cofounder and CEO of Stem, said, “Stem is about new forms and formats. J Dilla invented how we produce music today. To distribute these never-before-heard songs from the Jay Dee era is an honor. To do so in clean vocals, drums, bass, and instrumental is something even more special.
The amazing Yancey family understands that creative thinking can change everything.”

Dilla’s exclusive, newly released music can be found HERE

The post Ma Dukes (J Dilla’s Mom) Announces New Dilla Music Released Via STEM Player appeared first on The Source.

Several reports have confirmed that Richmond Virginia rapper EGYPXN shot his mother, sister and younger brother following a forced home entry, sending his family members to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. All of this occurred the day of the release of his new music video “Be Free”, which was pre-scheduled.

The shooting launch a city-wide man hunt for the rapper after he was identified as a suspect. EGYPXN was later engaged in a shootout with police, resulting in the injury of one police officer and the death of the troubled rapper when officers returned fire.

It is unclear what caused the domestic disturbance that initiated the shooting, but the tragedy didn’t put a halt on the release of his new video, which has already garnered 16K views since the beginning of the month.

The post VA Rapper EGYPXN Shoots Mother, Brother And Sister Before Dropping Video appeared first on The Source.

On this day in Hip Hop history, the cult classic comedy Friday soundtrack was released by 550 Music and Epic Records. The album peaked at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart, where it stood for two weeks, and #1 on the Top R&B/Hip Hop chart, where it stood for six weeks. The album was just as commercially successful as the film and was certified double platinum only two months later.

During the 90s, it seemed that every soundtrack was a hit and the Friday soundtrack followed suit. With tracks from Ice Cube, Scarface, Dr. Dre, Cypress Hill, and 2 Live Crew, the album stacked up to be an amazing compilation of original tracks and poppin’ radio singles. At the same time, the addition of a few throwbacks from The Isley Brothers, Bootsy Collins, and Rick James gave the album surprising depth and a sense of nostalgia. Dr. Dre’s original single for the film, “Keep Their Head Ringing,” was able to see great success due to this soundtrack. It ranked at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and #1 on the Hot Rap Tracks chart. It was certified gold by the RIAA in May 1995.

The post Today In Hip Hop History: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack for ‘Friday’ Dropped 28 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

Last year, Brookyn rapper Nasir Fisher aka Nas Blixky was shot and killed in Brooklyn and today, one of his friends was arrested and charged with trying to avenge the drill rapper’s death.

Taj Zeigler, 22, was charged on Friday with attempting to shoot the man believed to be responsible for Nas Blixky’s death. Zeigler is currently being held in Brooklyn’s Federal Detention Center.

It has been reported that no one was injured in the shooting.

Zeigler was identified in video surveillance at the crime scene and was charged with being a felon in possession of ammunition.

The post 6 Treys Member Arrested for Attempting To Retaliate For Nas Blixky Death appeared first on The Source.

On the most recent episode of the AllHipHop podcast, Dipset Capo Jim Jones gave an account of being in the studio with Jay-Z and having so many Blood gang members with him that Hov himself had to address the situation.

Jones spoke to AHH owner Chuck Creekmur about a time in the legendary Baseline Studios with the old Roc-A-Fella team, saying, “We were right in Harlem, so we ain’t have to cross no bridges or nothing to get there. It was literally a seven-minute ride to get down there. We used to come in there all the time. Me piling in there with like 20 Bloods with me.” 

Jones said, “[Jay-Z] looking at me like I’m crazy. One day I came in there with so many Bloods, Jay was like, ‘Come here, come here, come here.’ Like he was my uncle.”

According to the Harlem rapper, Hov said, “I’m not worried about all the Bloods you bring here. I don’t care about none of that. But when you bring the gangsters in here, make sure the gangsters holler at me before anything else ’cause this is my house.”

The post [WATCH] Jim Jones Says JAY-Z Had Bloods in the Studio Because of Him appeared first on The Source.

April 10, 1990, was the release date of a cornerstone in hip-hop music: Public Enemy’s Fear of a Black Planet. Still known as one of the most empowering albums of its time, the album was written during a pivotal era both in America and in music: the Golden Age of Hip Hop.

Preceding the time when samples required clearance and approval to be used in sample-based music, the album is layered heavily with elements providing space and depth to levels of complexity previously unheard. Fear of a Black Planet‘s production team, The Bomb Squad, worked tirelessly to bring their signature sound to the album.  As Rolling Stone’s Christopher Weingarten said in an interview late last year with leading Public Enemy MC Chuck D, it was one of the…

“most sonically adventurous and politically stirring records of all time.”

Within the first week of release, the album sold more than a million copies, coming in at number 10 on Billboard’s Top Pop Albums chart.  Commenting on several racially and politically engaging topics was the goal of the album, and the track that said it best was “Fight The Power.”  The deep rhymes and intense verbiage used by Chuck in revolutionary poetry made the track not only what the group became known for, but also their critically acclaimed anthem.

Used by director Spike Lee for his film Do The Right Thing, who also filmed this music video, this track alone could be used to describe this legendary album.  Fear of a Black Planet was later listed as Rolling Stone’s 300th greatest record of all time.

The post Today in Hip Hop History: Public Enemy’s ‘Fear of a Black Planet’ Was Released 33 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

Ahead of its time to say the least, A Tribe Called Quest’s experimental, alternative, jazz rap was originally unappreciated by mainstream audiences. It took six years for the Tribe’s first album to hit gold. The album might not have been a huge commercial success at first, but their innovative and comedic sound beautifully balanced the light-hearted social consciousness of their tracks. Although “People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm” was critically acclaimed, some critics felt that the inspired lyricism and unique humor was at times overshadowed by the group’s immaturity and lack of focus. Their debut album did, however, generate buzz within the Alternative Hip Hop community that has gained them a devout cult following. Today “People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm” is certified gold, and in The Source Magazines’s 100 Best Rap Albums. Other accolades include a 5 mic rating from The Source, 4 stars out of 5 by The Rolling Stone Album Guide, and a 3.5 out of 4 stars by the Chicago Tribune.

Regardless of which generation you belong to, every true Hip Hop fan can remember the first time they heard “Can I kick It?” by saying “yes I can!”…and how it changed their perception of the genre. In honor of this special day in Hip Hop history we did some digging and found old school Source articles reviewing “People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm”, so feel free to take a look at the history.

The post Today In Hip Hop History: A Tribe Called Quest Dropped Their Debut Album ‘The People’s Instinctive Travels And The Path To Rhythm’ LP 33 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

On this date in 1992, Dr. Dre took the first step in his successful solo journey and released this single 31 years ago today

On April 9th, 1992, the premiere single from the silver screen blockbuster Deep Cover was released and it featured the former producer from “the world’s most dangerous group” and a fresh 21-year-old Crip from Long Beach known then only as “Snoop”.

After the very public and messy break up of N.W.A., Dr. Dre and his behind the boards prowess were invited to create the musical score of the dirty cop flick starring Larry Fishburne. He brought along one of his little brother Warren G’s homies and the rest was history. The song became a hit and the track continues to be recognized as one of the best-crafted tracks in Hip Hop history. Fat Joe and the late Big Pun even created a classic remix of the joint that featured Dre and Snoop in the video entitled “Twinz”(Deep Cover ’98).

Salute to Dre and Snoop for this timeless gem and look forward to another one from them in another 29 years! Peace!

The post Today In Hip Hop History: Dr. Dre Released “Deep Cover” Single, Introduced Snoop Doggy Dogg 31 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

According t several reports, the father and son who was allegedly recorded beating and robbing disgraced Brooklyn rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine have been released from jail.

43-year-old Rafael Medina Jr. and his 23-year-old son Octavius Medina have been released on house arrest in Palm County after signing a promissory note with a bail bond company. Rafael was released on a $52K bond while his son was cut loose on a $22K surety bond. Their co-defendant, 25-year-old Anthony Maldonado, signed a $22K surety bond as well, but remans in custody at Palm Beach County’s Main Detention Center, according to court records.

All three were charged with battery and robbery of the “Gummo” rapper and are slated for court appearances next month.

On March 30, Maldonado and the father/son team were arrested on suspicion of assaulting Tekashi, whose real name is Daniel Hernandez, inside an LA Fitness gym in Palm Beach County, Florida and recorded the entire ordeal.

Tekashi gave a statement to Palm Beach County Sheriff’s investigators, telling them that his attackers took the key fob to his Lambo, Balenciaga sneakers and an iPhone.

Rumors have circulated that the attack was due to 6ix9ine’s allegiance to Mexico over Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic last month, but authorities say that Medina Jr. is a high ranking member of the Latin King, which is an ally to the Bloods gang. Tekashi famously aided federal prosecutors to convict several of his Blood co-defendants of racketeering and violent crimes, resulting in a sentence of jail and house arrest. 

As part of the conditions of release from jail, the three defendants signed papers agreeing to obey all laws, not possess weapons, and appear for scheduled court hearings. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s website says its house arrest program allows participants to obtain employment and requires them to wear an ankle monitor. 

The post Tekashi 6ix9ine’s Alleged Attackers Released From Jail appeared first on The Source.

On this day in Hip Hop history, Biz Markie (real name Marcel Theo Hall), one of the most respected and successful DJs in Hip Hop, was born. Growing up in Harlem, New York, The Biz has been moving the crowd with his unique style of rhyming since he was 14. From his earliest gig as Roxanne Shante‘s beat boxer to a headliner at Grammy Awards after parties, he’s done it all. Whether it be on screen, on the mic, or on the 1s and 2s, The Biz has remained a consistent brand in entertainment booking, averaging 175 shows a year across the globe.

Over the past four decades, Biz Markie has established himself as one of the most prolific rappers/DJs in music. Since his 1988 debut Goin’ Off (which peaked at #90 on the Billboard 200), he has grabbed hold of the hearts and ears of Hip Hop lovers everywhere. His second album, 1989’s The Biz Never Sleeps, contains his timeless hit “Just a Friend,” which has made a permanent impact on pop culture.

During the ’90s, The Biz retained his place as an icon. His third LP, I Need A Haircut, unintentionallychanged the scope of Hip Hop forever. The closing track from the album, “Alone Again,” contains a sample of the song “Alone Again (Naturally)” by Gilbert O’Sullivan, which had not been cleared by Warner Bros. Records. In turn, Warner Bros. sued The Biz for his unlawful use of the sample, causing the courts to rule all samples must be cleared by the owning party before reuse from then on. The lawsuit prompted the title of Markie’s fourth LP All Samples Cleared!.

As the new millennium approached, Markie never saw much of a decline in popularity. In 2002, he made his first major motion picture appearance in Men in Black 2. From then, he continued to make a plethora of television and big screen appearances. From Nick Cannon’s Wild N Out to Grand Theft Auto, The Biz is seen and heard throughout visual media.

During this decade, he also started his endeavors as a child educator through the children’s program Yo Gabba Gabba. Through entertainment, Markie has helped educate young children on music and artistic expression on the Nick Jr. hit show.

Biz lost his battle with diabetes in the summer of 202. He was 57 years old. Even though he is gone physically, the music and legacy of the human orchestra will live on forever!

The post Happy Heavenly Birthday To “The Human Orchestra” Biz Markie! (R.I.P.) appeared first on The Source.

On this date in 1987, Philly’s most celebrated Hip Hop duo released their first album.

Famed rapper and actor Will Smith, also known as “The Fresh Prince” and his hilarious on-and-off-screen partner Jeff Townes aka DJ Jazzy Jeff, dropped their first project on the Jive/RCA imprint.

As two of the pioneers of Philly Hip Hop, Dj Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince were the first artists from the “City of Brotherly Love” to perform at the coveted Union Square, which prompted the live title track. They were there during a time when if you were wack, not only did you get booed, but the Brooklyn kids would end up leaving the Square with something you came there with. “Girls Ain’t Nothing But Trouble” was a storytelling anthem that was only rivaled by the likes of the great Slick Rick. This ten-track LP was just the tip of the iceberg of what this dynamic duo had in store for them in their future.

Salute to Jazzy Jeff, Will Smith and Ready Rock C for this classic piece of Hip Hop history!

The post Today In Hip Hop History: DJ Jazzy Jeff And The Fresh Prince’s Debut Album ‘Rock The House’ Turns 35 Years Old! appeared first on The Source.

A couple of dreadheaded backpackers made stuttering rhymes chic when Krayz Drayz and Skoob came together and dropped their Dead Serious album April 7, 1992.

Released on the East/West imprint and recorded in both the famed Firehouse Studios in Brooklyn and North Shore Soundworks in Long Island, Dead Serious became a platinum selling album in just two years, revering it as one of the most influential LPs of the “Golden Era”.

The hit singles “They Want Efx” and “Mic Checka” were both forces to be reckoned with on the Billboard charts, while the virtually production of Chris Charity and Derek Lynch aka “Solid Scheme” ensured the consistent output of quality music for Das EFX until Charity’s untimely passing in 2000.

The Brooklyn, NY/Teaneck, NJ duo met in college at Virginia State University and became a part of EPMD‘s “Hit Squad” collective in just two years after their initial meeting with EPMD and never looked back. Salute to Drayz, Skoob, and the entire former Hit Squad family for bringing us such an historic classic.

The post Today In Hip Hop History: Das EFX Dropped Their Debut Album ‘Dead Serious’ 31 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

According to several confirmed reports, the dealer who sold the fatal dose of the drug to The Wire actor Michael K. Williams has pleaded guilty to a narcotics conspiracy charge. 

Irvin “Green Eyes” Cartagena was originally charged with narcotics conspiracy resulting in death, which could’ve resulted in a life sentence. Still, he pleaded to a lesser charge that carries a sentence of 24 to 30 years behind bars.

“I knew my actions were wrong and against the law,” Cartagena said via an interpreter. “I am very sorry for my actions.”

“The reality is there are no winners here,” said Williams’s nephew Dominic Dupont. “Michael was an amazing human being and to lose him is something that we’re still grappling with. The grieving process continues for myself and for my family.” 

Cartagena is scheduled for sentencing in August.

The post Heroin Dealer Who Sold Drugs to Michael K. Williams Pleads Guilty appeared first on The Source.

Released by Columbia Records, Nas’ third album, I Am, debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album sold 470,000 copies in its first week and was certified double platinum in the United States. The album was nominated in 2000 for Best Rap Album at the 43rd Grammy Awards.

Originally intended to be a double album titled I Am…The Autobiography, the album was arguably Nas’ most honest and poetic project at the time. Although the additional tracks were scrapped due to bootlegging of the original sessions, the intention for the theme and tone of the project can still be felt on the released single-disc LP.

Nas’ cover art has always been an iconic staple of his work. Usually consisting of his face superimposed over his native Queens, each cover has served as a visual representation of Nas as an artist. Famed portrait photographer Danny Hastings shot this particular cover. To create the image of Nas’ face in the Pharaoh mask in a pre-Photoshop world, Hastings made a clay mold for Nas’ face (which, in fact, almost killed him when clay got lodged in his nostrils, nearly suffocating him).

This album wasn’t only popular in the United States. I Am… made appearances on music charts in Australia, Canada, Norway, France, Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The two official singles from this project claimed spots on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Nas Is Like..” peaked at #86, and “Hate Me Now” climbed a little higher to take the #62 spot.

After the release of this album, Nas released seven more solo albums and two collaborative projects. Nas continues to perform and is known as one of the most prolific rappers of his or any generation. Take some time today to listen to this album appreciate the career of a living legend.

The post Today in Hip Hop History: Nas Released His Third LP ‘I Am’ 24 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

On the last episode of Club Shay Shay, cultural critic Shannon Sharpe interviewed Love And Hip Hop star Mendeecees Harris, who spoke very openly about his days as a drug trafficker.

Harris told a shocking story about where he once gave his drug connect his mother, Judy Harris’ location in order to secure a large amount of cocaine on consignment.

“But, I got some crazy stories about…you know. I remember one time I was dealing with a connect, and this gonna sound horrible, but I put my mom up for collateral,” adding,  “I was getting a bunch of keys, and they was like, ‘Well, you gotta show me where your mom live at, ’cause if you run off on this, we can’t afford for you to run off.’ And I was like, I didn’t have no intentions of running off, so I was like, ‘All right I’ll show you.’ And I took ’em. And she had no idea, and I took ’em.” 

The post [WATCH] Mendeecees Admits To Putting His Mom up for Collateral in Drug Deal appeared first on The Source.

According to several confirmed reports, Texas rapper Maxo Cream has turned himself into authorities over a 2016 RICO case, citing that he wouldn’t “break”.

Kream, whose real name is Emekwanem Ogugua Biosah Jr., posted a caption alongside a mugshot of himself saying, “Been dealing with this Rico s**t since 2016. I beat all the felony Charges but gotta handle sum light s**t. I’ll never bend break or fold S/o all my fans ima brb.” 

Back in 2016, Maxo Kream and members of the Kream Klicc gang were arrested on charges of drug trafficking and money laundering.

TheSource.com will update this story as more details develop about his case.

The post Maxo Kream Turns Himself in Over 2016 Rico Case appeared first on The Source.

On this day in 1973, the seemingly ageless producer, singer, rapper, author, designer, creative director, and label head Pharrell Williams was born 48 years ago. His music has touched the hearts and minds of literally billions of people, his humanitarian efforts have helped toward preserving the planet for the next generation to enjoy, and his actions to promote happiness and equality have helped move society in a positive direction.

Pharrell Lanscilo Williams was born in Virginia Beach, Virginia to Pharaoh and Carolyn Williams. He is the eldest of three sons. His love for music and art started at a young age. He met the other half of the legendary production duo The Neptunes, Chad Hugo, at band camp in the seventh grade. Pharrell at the time played the piano and the drums and Hugo played the tenor saxophone. In the early 90s, Pharrell and Hugo formed the group The Neptunes and signed with Teddy Riley of Interscope Records upon graduating high school.

Success began to come in 1993 when Pharrell met fellow Virginia rappers Clipse. The rap duo signed to Artista Records under Pharrell’s Star Trak Entertainment. In 1994 Pharrell and Chad Hugo officially established themselves at The Neptunes and produced part of Blackstreet’s self-titled album. By the 2000s the Neptunes had a name for themselves and in 2001 got their first international #1 hit with Britney Spears’ “I’m a Slave 4 U.”

That same year Pharrell, Hugo, and Shae Haley released their first album as the group N*E*R*D titled In Search of… in Europe, where the first Kelis album, produced by The Neptunes, had its best reception. After realizing that the album sounded much like their other work, the group decided to reproduce the album with Spymob. In 2002 the re-release of the album came with amazing reception and Pharrell was named Producer of the Year by Billboard and The Source.

In 2003 The Neptunes released their only album The Neptunes Present…Clones which was a compilation of songs and remixes by Pharrell and Hugo. The album featured Busta Rhymes, Clipse, Ludacris, Jay-Z, Nelly, Snoop Dogg, Jadakiss, ODB, Kelis, and Nas and debuted #1 on the Billboard 200. It also claimed the #1 spot on the UK R&B Albums chart and the Dutch MegaChart.

The next year N*E*R*D released their second album Fly or Die which was more popular than the first. It had a very positive international reception. That same year Pharrell received two Grammy awards, one for Producer of the Year and a second for Best Pop Vocal Album for his work on Justin Timberlake’s Justified album. He also put out the hit single “Drop It Like It’s Hot” that year with Snoop Dogg, which was Pharrell’s first #1 single in the US.

In 2006, Pharrell released his first solo album. In My Mind was released on July 25 and debuted at #3 on the Billboard 200 chart where it peaked. The album is full of hits with artists like Kanye West, Gwen Stefani, Nelly, Snoop Dogg, and more.

Over the next few years, Pharrell continued to produce hit songs as well as build his fashion empire with his brands Billionaire Boys Club and ICECREAM. His work with a designer and BAPE founder Nigo helped him to rise to prominence in the early 2000s as a streetwear designer. His popularity grew as a designer was almost simultaneous with his growth as an artist.

During the 2010’s Pharrell has continued to have a creative influence. His 2013 single “Happy” from his second album Girl has become the international anthem for happiness around the world and can be considered his most popular record. This decade he has also begun his i am Other campaign which is a multimedia creative collective and record label that serves as the overarching brand over his many endeavors including: Billionaire Boys Club, ICECREAM, Bionic Yarn and the Youtube channel that launched as i Am Other’s founding platform. Most recently, Pharrell can be seen as a host of the popular TV show, The Voice. He has also just been named the creative director of the well established denim brand G-Star Raw.

Pharrell’s has become synonymous with Hip Hop and his brand is one that has inspired many in the generations under and above him. On behalf of everyone here at The Source we’d like to wish Pharrell Williams a happy born day, may he see many more years of success.

The post Happy 50th Birthday To Pharrell Williams! appeared first on The Source.

Famed actor Leonardo DiCaprio took the stand and testified against The Fugees member Pras Michel who is accused of participating in a global campaign-finance conspiracy. 

Michel is on trial by himself, but the alleged mastermind of the conspiracy, Malaysian businessman Jho Low who allegedly stole billions of dollars from a Malaysian sovereign wealth fund, is still on the run.

DiCaprio was on the stand for about an hour, talking about his interactions with Low, who prosecutors said was introduced to the actor by Riza Aziz, the stepson of former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak. Aziz has also been charged in the scandal.

DiCaprio then spoke about his dealings with Pras, which he testified was at a Fugees concert and added that Pras possibly could have been an attendee at one of his family’s Thanksgiving dinners. Still, DiCaprio says that he’s not sure.

DiCaprio was asked to identify Pras in the courtroom, which led to Pras leaning back and waving at the actor.

Pras is accused of helping Low make donations to political campaigns with the stolen money through a series of fake donors, and DiCaprio was asked to recall a conversation with Low about making a large contribution to the Democratic party. 

DiCaprio explained, “It was a casual conversation about what party he was in support of, I told him what party I was in support of. And he told me that he, or he and a group, were going to make a significant contribution to the Democratic Party,” he said, noting the donation was around $20 million or $30 million. “I said ‘wow, that’s a lot of money.'” 

DiCaprio spoke about Low offering to fund a movie for him after an extensive background check, DiCaprio’s team gave the actor the green light to make a deal with Low. This led to Low funding The Wolf of Wall Street, which led to DiCaprio shouting out Low while accepting a Golden Globe for “Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy Film.” 

The post Leonardo Dicaprio Testifies for Prosecution in Pras Michel’s Conspiracy Trial appeared first on The Source.

West Coast producer and legendary Dogg Pound member Daz Dillinger spoke candidly during an interview for Homegrown Radio when Daz claimed that he once had to “strong arm” former Death Row Records CEO Suge Knight for millions of dollars that he was owed for royalties.

At the 1:12:38 mark, Daz was asked what was the largest royalty check he’s ever received, and he almost immediately replied, “like $2.3 [million], from Suge Knight.” He went on to say how he had to “strongarm” employees in the office including Knight, citing that he did all of this with a long screwdriver while high on mushrooms.

The post [WATCH] Daz Dillinger Says He Had to “Strongarm” Suge Knight To Get $2.3M Check appeared first on The Source.

On April 4, 2009, Run-D.M.C. became the second rap group to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, after Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five who were inducted in 2007. This honor came well deserved after the illustrious career of the trio. Run-D.M.C. helped to build a musical cross culture as well as serve as the cornerstone artist of one Hip Hop most powerful empires, Def Jam Records. Run-D.M.C.’s brand is timeless and iconic and can be said to be one of the launching boards for Hip Hop culture as a whole.

From their music to their style, Run-D.M.C. has immortalized their image in music history. In honor of this crowning achievement, we have compiled a list of examples to prove as to why Run-D.M.C. is considered to be the icons that they are.

Style

It goes without saying that Adidas in and of itself is one of the most popular active wear brands around. Rivaled only by the titans Nike and Puma, Adidas has grown to become a household name in both fitness attire and style. In its early stages, Adidas’ popularity in the Hip Hop community can be largely attributed to Run-D.M.C. Everywhere Run-D.M.C. went they could be seen in head-to-toe Adidas with a gold rope chain and a black top hat. From the jewelry to the full sweat suits to the fat laced, shell-toe low tops, Run, D.M.C, and Jam Master Jay were undoubtedly fly. Their love for the Adidas brand mixed with their popularity in music soon brought them sponsorship dollars and eventually their own signature sneakers. Without their influence, it would have probably been a while before any sneaker brand became so popular in Hip Hop.

Cross Over Appeal

In the past, there have many icons in Hip Hop who have been able to stand the test of time and make it to legend status. Few artists however have been able to retain their respect as a rapper while being able to cross over genres and appeal to a broader audience. Run-D.M.C.’s ability to seamlessly transition between a rock and rap fan base is one of their greatest attributes. The hit single Walk This Way Featuring fellow Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Aerosmith was one of the first of it’s kind. The genius concept to have two of the biggest stars in their respective genres led to a new sense of community in music. Like never before artists hailing from different genres began to collaborate and Hip Hop had finally broken completely into the mainstream. This single and style of rapping broke open the door for current rappers today to expand their support basis across genres.

Influence

The editor of Allmusic wrote that,

“More than any other Hip-Hop group, Run-D.M.C. are responsible for the sound and style of the music”.

It can and has been said that the group helped to move Hip Hop forward with the times. Their sound helped progress the genre out of that heavily funk and disco influenced sound and move toward a more hardcore style of rap. They helped the music transform from dance club-oriented songs like Kurtis Blow‘s “The Breaks” to more aggressive, hard-hitting tracks like their It’s Like That record. This transformation paved the way for the sounds the next generation of rappers such as Public Enemy, Boogie Down Productions, and Wu-Tang Clan. Outside of rap, artists like KoRN, Rage Against the Machine, and Linkin Park all have styles similar to the one popularized by Run-D.M.C.

The career of this prolific group is instrumental piece of music history as a whole. Their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame only proves that they are important to not only the genre that they concentrated in but were loved and admired by music lovers as a whole. Take some time out today to appreciate the career of one of the greatest music groups of all time.

The post Today in Hip Hop History: Run-D.M.C. Gets Inducted Into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 14 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

On this day in 2000, the first posthumous L.P. to be released by the first “Latin to go platinum” entitled Yeeeah Baby was released on the Loud/Terror Squad imprint.

Christopher “Big Pun” Rios passed away just shy of two months before his sophomore L.P.’s release and anticipated success, which came on the heels of his debut album, Capital Punishment. With appearances from the entire Terror Squad and executive production by the T.S. general Fat Joe, the 16-track album showed Pun’s acute diversity in his lyricism and approach to song-making, which yielded some of the most memorable songs of his career. The album took longer to record because of Pun’s extreme obesity since his breathing problems couldn’t permit him to spit his custom, rapid-fire flow freely.

Some of the L.P.’s favorites are the Puerto Rican anthem “100%” with Terror Squad crooner Tony Sunshine on the hook, “New York Giants” featuring M.O.P., “Ms. Martin,” an ode to his protege Remy Ma and the touching single “It’s So Hard” featuring Donnell Jones.

Salute to Big Pun, Pun Jr., and the entire Terror Squad for this remarkable piece of Hip Hop History!

The post Today in Hip Hop History: Big Pun’s Posthumous Sophomore LP ‘Yeeeah Baby’ Dropped 23 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

A prospective juror in the YSL Rico case has been sentenced to three days in jail. She was caught recording court proceedings on her cell phone.

The woman, Juror 1004, was arrested and walked out of the courtroom on Monday morning after violating the rules of the court. The woman was accused of live streaming on March 17, she stated she recorded a video but quickly deleted it.

“It wasn’t livestreamed at all,” the potential juror said, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “I did take a video and then the young lady next to me said I couldn’t do that.”

The woman’s phone was confiscated, and a video clip was found in the recently deleted folder. Chief Judge Ural Glanville was not lenient in the matter, “I went through a very long and arduous process of telling people what they could and could not do, and you violated that.”

She was then arrested and taken to jail for her three-day stay. The woman’s identity was not revealed.

Yesterday, news broke that Young Thug was permitted to attend the funeral of his sister Angela Grier. Twitter users note Thugger was allowed to attend the services, wearing a suit and Air Force ones.

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Last week, Angela Grier, the older sister to troubled ATL rapper Jeffery “Young Thug” Williams, passed away. The cause of her death has yet to be confirmed.

One of Young Thug’s sisters, HiDoraah, was one of the first to confirm their sister’s passing by posting several Instagram stories on her page, which included photos of Angela. Another one of Thug’s sibling’s. Dolly White, wrote on IG, “Yesterday I was making a move and got a phone call that another love has passed away. @_dollywhite and Big Duck I send my deepest sympathy and prayers.”

Thug is the 9th of 11 siblings, who were all born and raised in Georgia.

Grier leaves behind three children at the time of her passing.

Young Thug’s YSL RICO trial can take several months and Thug could face life in prison if convicted on all charges.

The post Potential Juror in YSL Case Sentenced to Three Days in Jail For Filming in Courtroom appeared first on The Source.

This past week, Grammy Award-winning producer Salaam Remi shared the current MuseZeuM collection at a four-day event in the Lower East Side of Manhattan at Legacy NYC.

MuseZeuM is a space for tangible fine art, limited edition merch, and Web3 digital collectibles created and curated by Salaam Remi himself. The NYC Pop-Up featured art pieces of Bob Marley, Nas, Marvin Gaye, Slick Rick, Fab 5 Freddy, Amy Winehouse, Celia Cruz, Dennis Brown, and more.

Remi said, “As a lifelong creative and huge fan and patron of the art world, this is a dream come true. It’s an honor to be able to create a space where icons and emerging artists will be able to collaborate and benefit from their works at the highest level. MuseZeuM will be the ongoing home for creatives to showcase their works.”

The two-day toast was provided by JADE champagne and Maison Marcel Sparkling Rosé. Notable guests included Q-Tip, Busta Rhymes, Black Thought, Large Professor, M1 of Dead Prez, Joell Ortiz, Rsonist, Roxanne Shante, DJ Cool Vee, Dj Teddy Ted, Fab 5 Freddy, Ro James, Sway, Ralph McDaniels, Angie Martinez, Ralph McDaniels, Guy Moot (Warner Chappell), Julie Swidler (Sony Music), and Barry Weiss (Records/Sony).

MuseZeuM headquarters is open to the public and located at 2032 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127.

The post [RECAP] Q-Tip, Busta Rhymes, Black Thought, and More Pop up at Salaam Remi’s Musezeum Collection appeared first on The Source.

Museum of Graffiti announces the opening of a novel exhibition presenting art works created with air pollution. The exhibit, entitled Reduce, Reuse, Remix: Graffiti Art for a Better Earth will open on Earth Day, April 22, 2023, and will exclusively present studio pieces of local artists who were seeded AIR-INK writing utensils.  AIR-INK technology starts by attaching filters to exhaust pipes on cars, generators, etc. to capture air pollution before it hits the environment. The sequestered soot then goes through a purification process and is converted into ink. The result is that PM 2.5 and PM 10 emissions which would have otherwise been in the lungs of millions of people will now be resting beautifully as art at the Museum of Graffiti.  

Viewers of the show can expect to see reclaimed found objects in addition to the AIR-INK in some of the pieces.  One of the participating artists, Ahol Sniffs Glue, a well-known Cuban-American multidisciplinary artist is no stranger to this concept. Ahol, born David Anasagasti, has recently gained local notoriety for his work creating sustainable art. Anasagasti, regularly rides his bike and assists in cleaning up the streets of Miami by painting pieces of improperly discarded trash which collectors rush to acquire as newly minted art. Additional exhibiting artists include Abstrk, Daniel Fila (“Krave”), Nico, Sero, Gustavo Oviedo, and more. 

All participating artists, were gifted the AIR-INK materials to use by Rabble Wine Company, which takes a planet-first mentality in its work by reducing water usage, decreasing pesticides, protecting natural vineyard ecosystems, reducing carbon emissions, and working with, rather than against, Mother Nature. 

Rabble will host the grand opening celebration at the Museum of Graffiti on Earth Day, April 22, 2023 at 7:30 PM, where guests can meet the artists, sample its responsibly produced wine, take part in sustainable interactive activities, and bid on up-cycled bottle art with 100% of proceeds to benefit The CLEO Institute, the only women-led nonprofit, nonpartisan organization in Florida exclusively dedicated to climate education, advocacy, and engagement.  

Daniel Dietch, Board President of The CLEO Institute and former Mayor of Surfside stated, “It is great to see Museum of Graffiti leverage new technology and its expertise in art to raise awareness for important environmental issues. We are fortunate to have an organization in our community doing this work.” 

The post Museum of Graffiti Presents ‘Reduce, Reuse, Remix: Graffiti Art For A Better Earth’ On Earth Day(4/22) appeared first on The Source.

Angela “Blac Chyna” White appeared on SiriusXM’s Sway in The Morning sitting down to talk to SiriusXM’s Sway Calloway and co-hosts Heather B and Tracy G.

During the interview, she opened up about her recent surgery and how her kids reacted, the transformation she has been through and much more.

The post [WATCH] Angela “Blac Chyna” White Talks About Her Kids’ Reaction To Her Surgeries On ‘Sway In The Morning’ appeared first on The Source.

Speaking to the hosts of the new SiriusXM program “The Last Mile Radio,” Steinberg discussed the upcoming FX documentary about Tupac, Dear Mama, and she shared how the “destructive” music industry was to blame for his downfall:

“Well, I wanted to say something about ‘Dear Mama.’ Last year, Alan Hughes reached out to me and said he was doing the five-part series on FX that’s coming out…April 21st…. Part of [Alan] wanting to really do this piece was about healing, was about honesty, was about all of us looking at what happened. And, so I’m just saying this to say, he’s done an incredible piece. I’m in my sixties now. We really blew it. We made a lot of mistakes. Tupac was not always right. Matter of fact, he was so passionate and so emotional and so often not emotionally literate, not able to control his emotions. And so he let his anger speak first and then later he would apologize or acknowledge things…. And so if we’re gonna heal, we have to be honest, I have to sit here as someone who was close to Tupac until his death, who was present many times when I no longer worked with him in a managerial capacity. I was at lots of video shoots that he did. I was in the studio at Can-Am when he was with Suge. And this industry is so destructive, that if I point the finger, I would say that executives and this industry had more to do with his collapse than anything.”

In a separate clip, Quincy D. Jones III shares how people underestimate the work ethic of hip hop artists in general, saying Tupac frequently didn’t even get the chance to sleep.

The Last Mile Radio is inspired by The Last Mile, a unique in-prison program that’s changing lives through technology-based education by preparing currently incarcerated students for careers upon their release.

The post [LISTEN] Tupac’s Former Manager Leila Steinberg Previews Upcoming FX Doc And “Destructive” Industry That Led To His Demise appeared first on The Source.

Beginning this past weekend, U.S. states will begin to kick as many as 15 million people off Medicaid insurance as the emergency safety net initially put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic comes to an end.

What is Medicaid? Medicaid is a public health insurance program for people who have lower incomes. It is jointly administered by the state and federal governments. Over the past three years since the global pandemic, under an emergency pandemic measure, states have stopped double-checking if people who are enrolled in Medicaid are still eligible for its coverage. Suppose you were enrolled in Medicaid in March 2020 or became eligible at any point during the pandemic. In that case, you have remained eligible the entire time no matter what, even if your income later increased.  However, states will now double-check every Medicaid enrollee’s eligibility, a huge administrative task that will put health insurance coverage for millions of Americans at risk. Not everyone will be removed from the program all at once. States plan to verify all recipients’ eligibility over periods of nine months to one year.

The change is “disruptive,” said Dr. Adam Gaffney, a critical care physician at the Cambridge Health Alliance in Massachusetts who advocates for health care reform. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra says the Biden administration is working with states to prevent Americans from being without any health insurance. “One of the best ways to make sure they don’t, is to make sure that governors have adopted the Medicaid expansion program, which lets them cover more Americans within their Medicaid program,” Beccera said.

People with Medicaid should ensure their personal information is up-to-date, be on the lookout for Medicaid application materials in the mail or via email, and complete the renewal application by their state’s due date. People who lose Medicaid coverage will be eligible to purchase coverage under the Affordable Care Act. The termination notice should provide instructions.

The post Millions to Lose Medicaid as COVID-19 Safety Net Expires appeared first on The Source.

Young Thug was permitted to attend the funeral of his sister Angela Grier. Twitter users note Thugger was allowed to attend the services, wearing a suit and Air Force ones.

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A post shared by The Neighborhood Talk (@theneighborhoodtalk)

Last week, Angela Grier, the older sister to troubled ATL rapper Jeffery “Young Thug” Williams, passed away. The cause of her death has yet to be confirmed.

One of Young Thug’s sisters, HiDoraah, was one of the first to confirm their sister’s passing by posting several Instagram stories on her page, which included photos of Angela. Another one of Thug’s sibling’s. Dolly White, wrote on IG, “Yesterday I was making a move and got a phone call that another love has passed away. @_dollywhite and Big Duck I send my deepest sympathy and prayers.”

Thug is the 9th of 11 siblings, who were all born and raised in Georgia.

Grier leaves behind three children at the time of her passing.

Young Thug’s YSL RICO trial can take several months, but Thug could face life in prison if convicted on all charges.

The post Young Thug Permitted to Attend His Late Sister’s Funeral appeared first on The Source.

Production legend Pete Rock took to Instagram to announce that has a collaboration album on the way featuring Wu Tang Clan favorites Raekwon The Chef and Ghostface Killah, produced exclusively by thew Chocolate Boy Wonda.

There is no scheduled release date that has announced, but promotion for the project has already begun, including an a cappella by the duo at half court of the legendary Madison Square Garden.

TheSource.com will update the information on this highly anticipated release as it is made available.

The post Raekwon And Ghostface Have Joint Album On The Way Produced Exclusively By Pete Rock appeared first on The Source.

After it was reported that 50 Cent’s ex, actress Vivica Fox, would be directing The First Lady of BMF: The Tonesa Welch Story, the music and television mogul had some choice words for those involved in the project, including Detroit native Judge Joe Mathis. Now, the Detroit native has responded to Fif, offering an olive branch in place of the thorns spit out about what appears to be a copycat project.

50 took to social media to weigh in on the project that seems to be a spin off of his Starz series BMF, focused on the rise and fall of the Motown-based drug empire run by Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory, who is portrayed by his son. 50 said ofFox’s project, “and what the f**k is judge Mathis doing in this mixI’m done, I’m done with all of you n***as. LOL.”

Judge Mathis replied to 50 via social media, saying,

“You’ve been critical of us and our movie, ‘First Lady of BMF.’ Man, you my guy. Let Tonesa eat. You know, first lady of BMF. I know LaLa’s doing a hell of a job, but y’all haven’t fed Toni. First lady of BMF, Terry’s lady for many decades. Southwest T,” said Mathis.

Mathis continued, “I’m from Detroit, they from Detroit. That’s how I’m involved. We are Detroiters, man. We come from the same cloth. I just got out of the street 10 years earlier than you. I respect you, man. I respect your work. Now let us get some money, man.” 

The post [WATCH] Judge Mathis Responds to 50 Cent’s Reaction to ‘First Lady of BMF: The Tonesa Welch Story’ appeared first on The Source.

With the release of their highly anticipated EP For Motivational Use Only right around the corner on April 4th, Grammy® Award-winning producer, songwriter, and rapper Jermaine Dupri and New Orleans-based rapper and founder of Jet Life Recordings Curren$y unveil a brand new single entitled “Never Fall Off” featuring award-winning rap mogul T.I., available today.

Listen to “Never Fall Off”HERE Weaving between a heavenly vocal sample, powerful bass kicks, and sizzling hi-hats, Curren$y opens the track with a chantable hook, “I raise my hand to the lord, I pray I never fall off.” Dupri follows with a flurry of punchy flows and bold bars before T.I. adds an incendiary verse of his own. These three titans show up and show out together. They will never fall off… The new track comes on the heels of Jermaine Dupri and Curren$y’s debut single, “Essence Fest.” 

EssenceMagazine and Billboard recently announced that Jermaine Dupri will be celebrating hip-hop’s 50th and So So Def’s 30th anniversaries with a star-studded performance at this year’s Essence Festival. 
Listen to “Essence Fest” HERE. 

The post T.I. Assists Jermaine Dupri And Curren$y On “Never Fall Off” From New EP appeared first on The Source.

Tay-K has penned a letter from jail. The note highlights his self-proclaimed innocence, his desire to live outside of prison as an adult, not having positive influences, and more.

Yo I’m sitting here thinking about all my fans, I love and miss y’all. I know there’s a lot that I haven’t directly spoke on and there R many things my fans know but I am not sure everybody else does. I’ve been here for 5 1/2 years now and I feel indebted to y’all for going so crazy behind me.

It’s still crazy to me that I never had a chance to live outside as an adult. I’ve been locked up and in and out of the ‘justice’ and CPS system 4 my whole life. Not sure if y’all know but I got sentenced as an adult to 55 years in prison for a crime where I wasn’t even the shooter. I wasn’t even alleged to have a gun. I was never even suspected to have pulled a trigger or hurt anyone.

I was young and didn’t have no positive figures around. Now that I’m older I know how important focusing on leading by example is. I love my fans and I don’t want any1 to think I’m promoting or really recommending violence. That’s why I really dedicate a lot of my time in here to using the success of my music to have a positive impact on other young artist, even if it’s something small like taking a phone call or writing a letter to keep them positively inspired. Regardless of my situation the movement is eternal. #RR4L

Perpetually, TAY-K

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At the top of the year, Long Beach rapper Tay-K sent out tweets from prison that he witnessed a murder, and now a video of the 22-year-old emcee behind bars has surfaced online.

While serving his 55-year sentence for the murder of a 21-year-old man in 2016, Tay-K’s video call with a female visitor has made its way to the internet. Tay-K can be seen checking out music played from a Macbook while on video chat with his visitor, who showed the incarcerated rapper her new video.

See the whole video below.

The post Tay-K Pens Letter From Prison: ‘I Never Had a Chance To Live Outside as an Adult’ appeared first on The Source.

On this day in Hip Hop history, Atlanta based tag-team Kriss Kross released their ridiculously successful debut album, Totally Krossed Out.

The album was the follow up to the mega-hit single Jump released in February of the same year. Largely written and produced by Jermaine Dupri, it took two years to produce the album after the musical concept for the group was conceptualized.

Totally Krossed Out was as successful as anyone could ask their debut album to be. The album claimed the #1 spot on both the Billboard 200 chart and the Top R&B/Hip-Hop chart and sold over four million copies in the year of its release. Two of the four singles released from the album, “Jump” and “Warm It Up” were both #1 Hot Rap Singles.

“Jump” is one of the biggest singles of its era. It claimed the #1 spot on the Eurochart Hot 100 as well as the top music charts in Australia, Finland, Ireland, New Zealand, and Switzerland. It was a Top 10 hit all over Europe. The single went double platinum in the United States and Silver in France (125,000 copies sold) all in 1992.

At the time of this release, Kris Kross members Mac Daddy and Daddy Mac were only 12 and 13 years old. Jump was the fasting selling single in fifteen years and the two rose instantly to be among the ranks of child stars in the entertainment industry.

The critical reception for the album was much better than one would expect for a rap album by two children. Publications praised Jermaine Dupri for his creation and Kriss Kross for their iconic swagger and style. They received high ratings from a plethora of magazines and media outlets with little negative feedback.  The success of this album landed the duo a spot opening on Michael Jackson’s 1992 European Dangerous World Tour and a cameo in Michael Jackson’s “Jam” music video.

The post Today in Hip Hop History: Kris Kross Dropped Their Debut Album ‘Totally Krossed Out’ 31 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

After being spotted at the same Miami hotel last year, Migos rapper Quavo and Chloe Bailey have been rumored to be an item, but Bailey refuted the speculation while speaking to Latto on her new Apple “777 Radio” podcast. 

Latto asked Chlöe, “The tea was that you was talking to Quavo,” and Chlöe replied, “Uh oh, well, we’re doing a movie together.” Chlöe is referring to the Praise This movie, which just released a promo trailer. 

Latto was persistent with her questioning, asking if their relationship was strictly business, to which Bailey replied, “Yes, working. He’s a really nice guy. Yeah, he’s nice… I like his locs.” 

See the interview clip below.

Chloe just recently revealed in an interview with Big Boy that she still is in contact with Gunna, who was released from Fulton County Jail after taking an Alford Plea in the YSL RICO case.

The post [WATCH] Chlöe Bailey Addresses Rumors Of Dating Quavo On Latto’s ‘777 Radio’ appeared first on The Source.

According to several confirmed reports, Zohar Dillard, the son of rap star Flo Rida, is in critical condition after falling from the 5th floor of an apartment building in New Jersey.

Alexis Adams, Zohar’s mother, filed a civil suit this week against the building’s owners, with documents stating that the incident occurred on March 4. Adams said that Zohar had fractures to his pelvis and feet, collapsed lungs, a lacerated liver, and internal bleeding from the fall.

Adams stated in the suit that the building’s windows “posed a hazardous condition” that allowed her son to fall “to the concrete pavement below.”

Adams spoke to News12 New Jersey, stating, “As a single mom to a special-needs child, this feels like a nightmare. My heart is broken into a million pieces. I am devastated, angry and struggling to come to terms with the fact that my only child has suffered severe injuries due to willful negligence of our landlord and others involved In failing to take necessary safety measures.” 

Flo Rida and Alexis have been publicly battling for custody and child support for years, so Zohar’s father has yet to comment on his son’s fall. Since 2018, Adams and Flo Rida have had a child support agreement in place, where Flo Rida was ordered to pay $9,000 a month plus insurance and education costs. 

Zohar was born with ventriculomegaly, a brain condition that can lead to neurological and learning disabilities, so Adams enrolled him in a specialty school for children with neurological disabilities. Adams has alleged that Flo Rida had stopped paying their son’s tuition, in which an unpaid tab of $200K was left on his tuition.

The post Flo Rida’s Son in ICU After Fall From 5th Floor in NJ appeared first on The Source.

Today, BET announced a partnership with iHeartMedia that will bring the award-winning hit morning show The Breakfast Club starring DJ Envy and Charlamagne Tha God from iHeartMedia New York’s Power 105.1 to BET’s 2023 programming lineup.

BET will televise a one-hour special edition of “The Breakfast Club” daily, Monday through Friday. These specials will feature unrivaled interviews and conversations with celebrities, artists, and thought leaders, along with entertainment news and conversations punctuated with The Breakfast Club’s signature blend of honesty and humor. The wildly popular, culture-shifting morning show will be available weekdays to millions of fans starting Monday, April 17 at 9 AM ET on BET and VH1. Episodes from the week will all be available to stream every Sunday on BET+.

“The Breakfast Club on BET” marks the brand’s return to producing daily programming for the first time since “106 & Park” in 2014. It also marks the brand’s noteworthy and exciting introduction to daytime television.

“We’re thrilled to partner with iHeartMedia to bring The Breakfast Club and their unique brand of entertainment and cultural commentary to our audiences,” said BET CEO and President Scott Mills. “We recognize the show’s influence and popularity, and we are confident that the partnership will be meaningful to our viewers and our partners. Hosts Charlamagne and DJ Envy are long-time members of the BET and Paramount family, so we couldn’t be more excited to welcome The Breakfast Club home to BET.”

“BET and iHeartMedia have a shared mission in engaging and entertaining lovers of hip-hop culture, so this partnership couldn’t be a better fit,” said Brian Rikuda, EVP, Enterprise Growth Strategy, Business Operations, and Programming Strategy, BET. “This addition to BET’s programming lineup will superserve our loyal audiences with fresh content from the celebrities they love and expand our reach to new daytime audiences.”

Each episode of “The Breakfast Club on BET” will feature the A-list celebrity interviews that are a mainstay of the broadcast radio edition, as well as the signature segments audiences have come to know and love, like Front Page News, the Rumor Report, and Charlemagne’s Donkey of the Day.

The post BET to Air ‘The Breakfast Club’ Starting April 17 appeared first on The Source.

Hip Hop co-founder Afrika Bambaataa and his role as the co-founder of the Unversal Hip Hop Museum has sparked some controversy, with an advocacy group demanding the defunding of the recently built museum because of the Hip Hop pioneer’s sexual abuse allegations.

This week, a group called Hip Hop Stands With Survivors put out a letter calling NYC Mayor Eric Adams to halt all taxpayer funding that has been funneled into the UHHM, as well as fire the organization’s Executive Director Rocky Bucano. The letter also calls for all companies such as Microsoft to end their financial relationship with the UHHM.

The letter says, “We expect his resignation or for the board to vote him out of the museum’s leadership and for the museum to sever all ties with Bucano, Bambaataa, and the Zulu Nation.”

n 2019, the State of New York donated a $3.5million grant to the museum. It’s scheduled to open some time in 2023 or 2024 in celebration of Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary.

The protest has been taken to the streets, with an immediate response coming from Mayor Adams.

“The Universal Hip Hop Museum assured the administration that they cut ties with the Universal Zulu Nation and that Afrika Bambaataa has not had a role at the Universal Hip Hop Museum since 2016,” Adams said in a statement.

Executive Director Bucano also released a statement, denying that Bambaataa was ever a board member of the museum and that he was never a member of the Zulu Nation.

His statement says, “The Universal Hip Hop Museum and Mr. Bucano condemn all acts of acts of violence and abuse. I would like to make it clear that Afrika Bambaataa has not had a role at the Universal Hip Hop Museum since 2016. I and the Universal Hip Hop Museum are not party to any activities affiliated with the Universal Zulu Nation I affirm that the Universal Hip Hop Museum is committed to its mission to empower, educate, and uplift communities.” It goes on saying, “While it is true that Afrika Bambaataa was a founding member of the museum, he was removed from any involvement with the museum as soon as the allegations surfaced. He has never been a board member, advisory board member or volunteer. I have never been a member of the Universal Zulu Nation nor am I an agent of the organization or Afrika Bambaataa. The assertion that UHHM is a financial front for the Universal Zulu Nation, Afrika Bambaataa, or other Universal Zulu Nation members, is irresponsible, false, and misdirected.”

Bambaataa was hit with several sexual abuse allegations going back to the 1970s, but has maintained his innocence.

His attorney, Vivian K. Tozaki, issued a statement in 2016 saying, “Recently, defamatory statements were published seeking to harm my client’s reputation so as to lower him in the estimation of the community while deterring others from associating or dealing with him. The statements show a reckless disregard for the truth, were published with knowledge of their falsity, and are being made by a lesser-known person seeking publicity. Valuable cultural resources, such as Afrika Bambaataa’s good name and time, should never be used to assist a mediocre person’s asinine quest for social media popularity and superficial gain.”

The post Afrika Bambaataa’s Ties to Universal Hip-Hop Museum Sparks Protest appeared first on The Source.

On March 30, 1993, cousins Fredro Starr and Sticky Fingaz and their partners Sonny Seeza and Big DS put out their debut album, Bacdafucup, on the newly created Rush Associated Labels.

Primarily produced by the group’s founder Jam Master Jay, other production credits include The Afros’ Kool Tee, Chryskillz, and a then young producer named Jeff Harris; Bacdafucup was by far Onyx’s best studio LP, becoming certified platinum by the RIAA in just a little over seven months after its debut.

The album’s sure-shot singles include the riot-causing “Throw Ya Gunz,” the horn-propelled “Shiftee,” and, of course, the mainstream favorite of all, “Slam.”

Onyx made their claim to fame with their trademark “mad face,” bald heads, and all-black everything. Many copycats came after these guys, but their mark on the game is unparalleled. Salute to Fredro, Sticky, Seez, and a big RIP to DS.

The post Today in Hip Hop History: Onyx’s Debut Album ‘Bacdafucup’ Turns 30 Years Old! appeared first on The Source.

About two years ago, Chloe Bailey and estranged YSL member Gunna sparked dating rumors after sitting next to each other at a Hawks game, but confirmed that they were an item when she revealed her song “For the Night,” featuring Latto, was about Gunna. Now, it’s revealed that Chloe has spoken to the former YSL member since he copped an Alford Plea in YSL’s RICO case.

In a recent appearance on Big Boy’s Neighborhood, Bailey was asked if she had spoken to Gunna since he was released from Fulton County Jail, to which she answered, “I always wish him the best. He’s always been a dear friend of mine, so I want to make sure he’s okay.” Bailey revealed that she had spoken to Gunna, but she added that they hadn’t seen one another.

See the entire interview below.

The post [WATCH] Chlöe Bailey Reveals She’s Talked to Gunna Since Copping Plea In YSL Case appeared first on The Source.

On this day in Hip Hop history, the rapper-turned-actor Will Smith and DJ Jazzy Jeff released their second LP, He’s the DJ, I’m the Rapper. This was the first double album in Hip Hop in its original vinyl state and is certified platinum by the RIAA.

It can be said that without this album, Will Smith would not be where he is today. The success this album provided for Smith gave him the exposure to take his talents from music to the screen. This was also a breakthrough album for the career of DJ Jazzy Jeff. Critics and consumers alike cited Jeff as the more musically inclined of the duo, although Smith was the obvious crowd favorite and frontman. Jeff’s ability on the turntables and the boards allowed him to be the unsung hero of the album and gain a lot of respect in the Hip Hop community.

The album received positive reviews from critics of countless publications. The Source even selected this album as one of the 100 Best Rap Albums list in 1998. The album peaked at #4 on the Billboard 200 chart and #5 on the Top R&B/Hip Hop chart. Overseas it peaked at #68 on the UK Album chart. The album’s most famous single, “Parents Just Don’t Understand,” won the first-ever Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance in 1989.

The post Today In Hip Hop History: DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince’s Second Album ‘He’s The DJ, I’m The Rapper’ Turns 35 Years Old! appeared first on The Source.

After failing to complete a six-month sentence for illegally carrying a firearm, 42 Dugg faces five more years behind bars and now speaks from jail after pleading guilty to prison evasion.

In one of his more recent Instagram stories, Dugg, whose real name is Dion Hayes, said, “A lot of these n****s got ‘get out of jail free’ cards.” He continued saying, “I guess ’cause I’m turnt I gotta go through the worst!!!!” The rapper concluded by saying, “Death before dishonor.”

Back in 2021, Dugg’s lawyers managed to get him a deal in which the rapper would avoid jail time for firing a gun in an Atlanta gun range in 2020, but the judge revoked the plea deal and sentenced him to six months behind bars. When Dugg refused to turn himself in to do his time, he was charged with evasion and is scheduled for sentencing on May 10.

The post 42 Dugg Speaks From Jail Following Prison Evasion Guilty Plea appeared first on The Source.

According to a recent report from TMZ, Love And Hip Hop: New York regular Brittney Taylor has been arrested for domestic assault for allegedly hitting the father of her child with a baseball bat.

According to police, Taylor was involved in a physical altercation with Afeez, the father of her two children. The reality star was arrested and charged after a warrant was issued for her arrest.

According to a source close to the couple, the squabble between the former couple started when Afeez flew into NYC to see his children but kept away from Taylor due to some issues from their past. When Afeez and his mother went to leave Taylor’s residence with the children, she said something to Afeez, which he ignored, sending her into a rage.

In the criminal complaint obtained by TMZ, Afeez told police that Taylor punched him in the face in front of the children, but even as he left the residence, she grabbed a bat and hit him, leaving Afeez with a deep, bleeding gash.

Afeez went to the hospital with a cut above his eye, which required stitches, while Taylor was charged with two counts of assault, one count of endangering the welfare of a child, and one count of criminal possession of a weapon.

The post L&HH NY’s Brittney Taylor Arrested For Domestic Assault appeared first on The Source.