THE BEAT DROP 🥁

A pulse of the culture.

If you’re reading this, it’s another Sunday at the crib and this week was filled with a lotta love. A new Nipsey Hussle joint was released with Bino Rideaux ahead of their collab album, Brent Faiyaz dropped Icon and Future confirmed an album was also on the way. With all this new music coming, 2026 is shaping up nicely.

THIS WEEK’S TRACKLIST 💿

The most important news items of the week.

1. Bino Rideaux announced a collab project with the late Nipsey Hussle called Prolific and shared their single “Reckless” along with the announcement.

2. Brent Faiyaz delivered his new album Icon and doubled back with a Director’s Cut that includes two bonus tracks.

3. Future confirmed a new album is definitely otw.

4. A judge has banned the use of a few of Lil Durk’s lyrics. However, the use of screenshots from music videos will be permitted.

5. Young Dolph’s murder suspect is working on a plea deal.

6. Rumor has it that Travis Scott and Ye have a collab project otw. Havoc revealed a few of his tracks have possibly made the cut.

7. Lil Baby was accused of fighting with an NFL player who was later shot.

8. Takeoff’s murder trial has been set for November 9.

9. Tone Loc was hospitalized, however no reason was given outside of it being a medical emergency.

10. Ye put Drake, Kendrick, Future, Young Thug and Playboi Carti in his Rap Mount Rushmore.

BARS OF THE WEEK 🎤

Notable quotes or lyrics that made waves.

“I know this cash don't make me / I know this fame don't make me / You know this game get crazy / I know this pain can't break me.” — Nipsey Hussle on “Reckless” with Bino.

“You’ve been looking for love in all the wrong, the wrong places / You’ve been looking for love in all the wrong the wrong faces” — Brent Faiyaz on the romantic cut “wrong faces.”

“I can make a n*gga get his mind right / the type of face card that don’t decline right!” — BunnaB on her latest cut “Mind Right.”

“It's stars in the Wraith, tell 'em, ‘Give me some space’” — Bossman Dlow talking that money talk on “Act Like Money.”

“I know the album is on the motherf*cking way.” — Future on what’s to come musically in 2026.

CHART TOPPERS 📈

Notable top-performing rap and R&B tracks on streaming platforms and charts.

J. Cole’s The Fall Off landed at #1 on the Billboard 200 and Don Toliver’s OCTANE entered at #4.

SOUND WATCH 🎧

Upcoming releases and recent drops worth noting.

Subscribe now

The late Nipsey Hussle and his longtime collaborator Bino Rideaux recorded “Reckless” a while back and now its available for fans to listen to. The single is part of their forthcoming project, Prolific, which is expected to be released this summer.

Brent Faiyaz released Icon with 10 joints and another two are expected with the Director’s Cut. Peep the “wrong faces.” music video here.

Victoria Monet brought all the love vibes with “Let Me.”

CMG signee Lil Poppa returned with his new single “Out Of Town Bae.”

Feng’s Weekend Rockstar dropped.

Sexyy Red linked with Key Glock for “Hang Wit A Bad Bitch.”

Luhh Dyl popped off with “Rollin With Me.”

Kenny Muney Muney Talk 2: The Encore Edition dropped.

Larry June, Curren$y and The Alchemist released the music video for “EVERYTHING ALLOCATED” off their forthcoming joint album SPIRAL STAIRCASES.

Jordan Adetunji shared the official video for “Climbing Up.”

Lefty Gunplay is now a Grammy Award-winning rapper and is taking advantage of the moment with a fresh introductory single “What’s My Name.”

Luh Tyler is full of love on his new track “My Boo.”

Buddah Bless announced Buddah Bless The Streets which will include "Owe Me" with Kodak Black and "See The World” with 2 Chainz, Bossman Dlow and Big Sean.

Cochise dropped off “JR Smith.”

BabyTron and Jorjiana came together for “Carhartt.”

Central Cee delivered “Slaughter” with J Hus.

Bossman Dlow shared the magnificently luxurious visual for “Act Like Money.”

The military-inspired video for BunnaB’s “Mind Right” was released.

Draft Day and Lil Yachty shared the soulful “Stylistics.”

Raq Baby released the visual for “WDH You Been Doin.”

Murda Beatz offered “By My Side” with Loe Shimmy and Cash Cobain.

A music video for Concrete Boys’ “Millionaire” was shared.

Big Moochie Grape balled out from his hospital bed in “Humongous.”

A Boogie Wit da Hoodie returned with his six-track EP Before Artistry.

Justine Skye and KAYTRANADA released “Thong.”

Alex Isley shared “Sweetest Lullabye.”

Maya J’an released her dreamy second single“pocketknife.”

Mike WiLL Made-It released his explosive new single “ROOMS,” featuring YoungBoy Never Broke Again and Chief Keef

BEHIND THE MUSIC 🎵

Industry news.

A new book about RUN-DMC is coming April 28 called RUN‑DMC AND RAISING HELL: 40 YEARS written by JayQuan. It has been described as a “definitive deep dive into the hip‑hop album that changed everything.”

Can’t wait for this one!

TOUR BUS 🚌

Concert and festival announcements, tour updates and live performance highlights.

Cardi B’s “Little Miss Drama Tour” kicked off this week and is set to wrap April 18 in Atlanta.

Floetry announced their “Say Yes Tour.” It’ll be the duos first national run in a decade.

Wiz Khalifa announced “The Macrodose Tour.” It will be a limited run from April 15 to April 19.

Miguel officially launched his highly anticipated global “CAOS Tour” this week in Atlanta and is expected to wrap May 5 in Barcelona.

FREESTYLE 🎙️

Memes and viral moments.

They saying Latto run a strict program! 😂

RAP HILL ⚖️

Legal matters affecting the music industry.

Ty Dolla Sign and Ye are facing a lawsuit over a sample used on Vultures 2 track “530.”

R&B artist SWSH is accusing the pair of using her 2018 song "Break the Fall (Acoustic)” without permission.

Take a listen to Ye and Ty’s version for yourselves here.

OUTSIDE 📸

Sightings and appearances.

While on his “Trunk Sale Tour,” J. Cole hooped with fans in the DMV.

Rihanna showed up in support of her man A$AP Rocky for his AWGE fashion show in New York City. They were also spotted out doing Valentine’s Day together looking like the perfect couple!

BIRTHDAYS 🎉

Celebrating artists and industry figures born this week.

Brandy, Megan Thee Stallion, Kelly Rowland, Yung Miami, Nasty C, Roc Marciano, Mike Shinoda, Khalid

OUTRO ✌🏽

A final thought.

News of Nipsey Hussle and Bino Rideaux’s collab album Prolific has to be the greatest news to hit this week. There’s no doubt that those two make great music together. I know for fact they are sitting on some gems and “Reckless” is proof of that! Another thing I want to touch on this week is the idea that Lil Wayne doesn’t rap with substance. Now, that’s just crazy talk. He’s one of the most dynamic rappers of our lifetime. We have to chill on disrespecting our greats while they are living.

xx

THE BEAT DROP 🥁

A pulse of the culture.

If you’re reading this, it’s another Sunday in Hip Hop — Super Bowl Sunday to be exact. And this week, J. Cole released The Fall Off as a double-disc to much fanfare, Mozzy and EST Gee revealed that they have a collab project in the chamber and so does Meek Mill.

THIS WEEK’S TRACKLIST 💿

The most important news items of the week.

1. J. Cole dropped The Fall Off and sold physicals out the trunk of his Honda Civic, this weekend.

2. Mozzy and EST Gee are coming together for their collab effort Not A Chance In Hell due out February 20.

3. Meek Mill said he was planning on releasing 3-4 albums this year and to expect the first one real soon.

4. BigXThaPlug starred in a new campaign for the adidas Originals adistar XLG.

5. Pooh Shiesty gifted his mom a $1.1M dollar home.

6. Doechii revealed that she almost wore Beyoncé’s custom Roberto Cavalli archive dress to the Grammys, but it was too hard to move in!

7. Drake bet $1M on a Patriots win for the Super Bowl.

8. Speaking of Drizzy, a few ICEMAN snippets circulated online this week.

9. Lil Jon’s son, DJ Young Slade, passed away. He was 27.

10. Oh yeah, Hip Hop won big at the Grammys last week, as well. Kendrick Lamar and SZA took home Record of the Year for “luther,” which meant that Dot broke JAY-Z’s record for the most Grammys. And since Bad Bunny’s beginnings started with trap music, we’ll acknowledge his well-deserved Album of the Year win for DtMF.

BARS OF THE WEEK 🎤

Notable quotes or lyrics that made waves.

“I'm the future of this rap shit, nigga, fuck everything that I did in the past.” — J. Cole popping his shit on “Two Six.”

“We know your shit is droppin', we ain't coppin' what you sellin' us / Bitch, you was good in school, why you hidin' your intelligence?” — Another Cole bar of him spitting that real off “Two Six.”

“You can't ignore how niggas up the score / From less fortunate to touchin' more.” Mozzy with the inspo on “WOULDN’T HOLD YOU UP” with EST Gee off the forthcoming NOT A CHANCE IN HELL.

“I’m supposed to drop 3-4 albums this year. I’m independent…Give me 30 days and we gon’ put it right in the streets.” — Meek Mill on what’s to come in 2026.

“And the Grammy goes to…Luther Vandross.” — Cher announcing Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “luther” win for Record of the Year.

“I'm addicted to this money, I won't never go to rehab / Every time I sit down for too long I tend to relapse.” — Hunxho keeping it honest on “Stone Cold” with G Herbo off his surprise mixtape Not One Of Them.

“No friends, just fans, you wouldn't understand.” — North West snapping on “PIERCING ON MY HAND.”

“Delete or I will sue …immediately” — Cardi B playfully to TMZ for posting a robot falling on her while she gave it a lap dance.

CHART TOPPERS 📈

Notable top-performing rap and R&B tracks on streaming platforms and charts.

Megan Thee Stallion’s “Lover Girl” hit #1 on US Rhythmic Radio, which makes sense because it’s all I hear when I turn on the radio.

A$AP Rocky’s DON’T BE DUMB landed at #10 on the Billboard 200, this week, with SZA’s SOS holding it down at #9. Meanwhile, Bad Bunny’s Grammy Award-winning album DtMF shot up to #2.

And at #1, landed Don Toliver’s Octane with 162k units moved.

SOUND WATCH 🎧

Upcoming releases and recent drops worth noting.

Subscribe now

J. Cole’s The Fall Off arrived in the form of a double-disc project, 24 songs deep. It’s “Bunce Road Blues” featuring Future and Tems and “Bombs in the Ville/Hit the Gas” for meeee. Nevertheless, check out the music video for “Two Six” here.

Hunxho surprised fans with his mixtape Not One of Them.

Stove God Cooks collaborated with Swizz Beatz for “Welcome To My Garden.”

Omah Lay delivered the music video for his song “Don’t Love Me” off his forthcoming album CLARITY OF MIND.

Montana 700 unleashed the official music video for “LL Da Wizard.”

Ella Mai unveiled her long-awaited third studio album Do You Still Love Me?

Ahead of their collab project NOT A CHANCE IN HELL, Mozzy and EST Gee dropped off the music video for “WOULDN’T HOLD YOU UP.”

Super group 1 Umbrella, with Bay Area’s ALLBLACK, 22nd Jim, Zay Bang and Lil Bean, dropped their debut project.

North West officially dropped “Piercing on My Hands.” Mind you, she produced and wrote this herself.

R&B singer Jaymin released a debut EP in the form of Sweet Nothings.

Hurricane Wisdom’s music video for his loving “Over Now” is out now.

B. Howard released the visual for “Beautiful Nightmare.”

Chief Keef and Ballout teamed up for “Talking Ish.”

EsDeeKid is back with another banger called “Omens.”

MarcLo shared a video for his latest “Interest.”

Black Fortune released Road to Osshland III.

Fredo Bang shared “Baby Please.”

Feng’s “J*b” is out.

TKandz tapped Lil Baby for “NOW OR NEVER II.”

Loe Shimmy traveled to Lagos for “Purple Magic.”

BEHIND THE MUSIC 🎵

Industry news.

Apple recently shared with Bloomberg how important iTunes is. They revealed that 80% of iTunes users not are Apple Music subscribers, unveiling an untapped market.

STEAK REPORT 🥩

Feuds, diss tracks and social media spats.

T.I. called out 50 Cent, challenging him to a Verzuz battle.

"I said who I wanted I called out 50 that's what I said but he doesn't want any smoke though he's ducking me,” Tip said on Nightcap with Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson.

The New York rapper responded with a Reel of T.I.’s old crime stopper commercial and by telling the ATL icon to keep his name out his mouth.

Well…let’s see how this goes!

Leave a comment

TOUR BUS 🚌

Concert and festival announcements, tour updates and live performance highlights.

DaBaby officially announced the BE MORE GRATEFUL Tour with Zeddy Will, H3adband and Bri3.

FREESTYLE 🎙️

Memes and viral moments.

Shakepeare wishes.

RAP HILL ⚖️

Legal matters affecting the music industry.

Real Boston Richey was acquitted of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute marijuana.

TRENDSETTERS 🔥

Updates on key figures who are driving the culture.

Chicago-based cannabis brand 93 Boyz announced the launch of its Free Smoke Medical Program with Vic Mensa. It’s a community-centered cannabis assistance initiative created to support individuals who rely on medicinal cannabis during periods of medical, physical and financial hardship.

OUTSIDE 📸

Sightings and appearances.

J. Cole popped up at a Fayetteville listening event and surprised fans.

Lil Uzi Vert was spotted in a vintage Micheal Jackson varsity jacket while performing “What You Saying” on Jimmy Fallon.

Good news! Future was spotted in the studio with YTB Fatt, ATL Jacob and Ty Dolla Sign. 😈

BIRTHDAYS 🎉

Celebrating artists and industry figures born this week.

Big Boi, K’naan, Lola Brooke, Tego Calderón, RXK Nephew, That Mexican OT, OMB Peezy, T-Mo, Lil Debbie, Sean Kingston, Daddy Yankee, WC, Bobby Brown

OUTRO ✌🏽

A final thought.

I just feel like, The Fall Off is the J. Cole album I always wanted. I would consider myself a casual listener of Cole — someone who respects his craft and what he offers, including the handful of hits he’s given us throughout his career. I must say The Fall Off is living up to all the hype and that is rare in this day and age. What I respect the most, is Cole staying true to habit by giving his fans a truly immersive experience with this roll out. Showing up in person to the listening event in Fayetteville, pulling up to NCAT, selling physicals out the trunk of his Civic Honda…that’s the kind of experience (and hope) Hip Hop needs right now. I’m looking forward to the tour.

xx

THE BEAT DROP 🥁

A pulse of the culture.

If you’re reading this, it’s another Sunday at the crib and this week, we’re celebrating the life of Swishahouse co-founder Micahel “5000” Watts and J. Cole’s return before The Fall Off. Also, the Grammys are set to air this evening with Doechii, SZA, Clipse, Tyler, The Creator and Leon Thomas, among others nominated.

Happy Black History Month! ✊🏾

THIS WEEK’S TRACKLIST 💿

The most important news items of the week.

1. Swishahouse co-founder and Houston legend Michael “5000” Watts passed away on Friday (January 29) at the age of 52.

2. It’s time for the Grammys! See the full list of nominees here.

3. J. Cole dropped a mixtape with DJ Clue called Birthday Blizzard ahead of his upcoming album, The Fall Off.

4. Hit-Boy and Mike Will Made-It’s Verzuz was a musical spectacle with the two production behemoths going hit-for-hit, bringing out friends like Big Sean, Chief Keef and Swae Lee.

5. Jordan Brand and Teyana Taylor came together for an exclusive Concrete Rose Air Jordan 3 sneaker and they are fire.

6. Drake signed Pimmie to OVO Sound and she released a new song called “Bet.”

7. Travis Scott was spotted in the movie trailer for Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film “Odyssey.”

8. MusiCares celebrated Mariah Carey as Person of the Year for her iconic legacy. Artists such as Jennifer Hudson and Teddy Swims paid homage to the award-winning singer at the event.

9. The “Joe and Jada” podcast is now on Netflix. Watch here.

10. Rihanna celebrated 10 years of Anti with a minute-trailer.

BARS OF THE WEEK 🎤

Notable quotes or lyrics that made waves.

“Grown men peddlin' gossip of all things / I remеmber when it was rappin' and ball-playin' / Now the bread and butter is yappin' and parlayin” — J. Cole rapping what it is on “Bronx Zoo Freestyle”

“I was taking heartache medication / Straight shots for the pain, no chasing / Payback's so close, I can taste it” — Swae Lee on “Rockstar Raging”

“Never was worried 'bout bills when they bill a check / Patriot, makin' this paper, then savin' it 'til it's lookin' like it's pages or somethin” — Denzel Curry going crazy on “Lit Effect.”

“Just me here to let yall know my baby daddy got the NUMBER 1 ALBUM!!!” — Rihanna celebrating her man’s album DON’T BE DUMB going No. 1.

“I'm in H-Town, this a hell of a vibe.” — Don Toliver repping his hometown on “ATM.”

“You guys gotta train your ears.” — North West on making more beats following criticism from the critics.

CHART TOPPERS 📈

Notable top-performing rap and R&B tracks on streaming platforms and charts.

A$AP Rocky’s DON’T BE DUMB landed at No. 1 on the Billboard charts. On the Hot 100 “Helicopter” hit No. 24 and “Stay Here 4 Life” hit No. 23.

“Folded” by Kehlani sat at No. 8 on the Hot 100 chart, meanwhile Burna Boy earned his first top 20 hit on the Hot 100 this week for "wgft" with Gunna.

PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson’s “Stateside” reached a new peak of #39 on the Hot 100.

Not to mention, Rihanna’s Anti is the longest charting album by a Black female artist in Billboard 200 history per Chartdata.

SOUND WATCH 🎧

Upcoming releases and recent drops worth noting.

Subscribe now

J. Cole dropped a 4-piece mixtape with DJ Clue called Birthday Bizzard “26.”

Don Toliver shared his album Octane.

Swae Lee and Mike WiLL Made-It came together for “Rockstar Raging.”

Denzel Curry, BKTHERULA and Lazer Dim 700 offered the “Lit Effect” off The Scythe’s upcoming project.

Nine Vicious released his long-awaited project B4FN.

fakemink shared 7 tracks on his latest release The Boy who cried Terrified.

Jordan Ward dropped Backward on…Backward Day.

Summrs offered the visual for “YESSA.”

Myaap dropped her music video for “What You Wanna Do.”

Atlanta rising star Zukenee released Zuminati.

xaviersobased released his project Xavier.

OhGeesy and Renz teamed up for the buzzy “Get Loose.”

Benny the Butcher released “Squeeze First” with Grafh.

Dave East and Joyner Lucas linked up for “Traffic.”

Fivio Foreign decided to diss 21 Savage on “Rat Trap.”

Concrete Boys unleashed the monstrous “We’re Back.”

Snot was deep in his “Flow State” for his latest release.

Fredo Bang dropped “Young Ready.”

E-40 delivered “Pesos.”

Lil Yachty and Thundercat tapped in for the jazzy “I Did This To Myself.”

Lelo offered “Dice Roll.”

Babyfxce E came through with “Trackhawk.”

The Game, DJ Drama and Mike & Keys delivered a Gangsta Grillz mixtape.

Bay Area’s Yatta Bandz released the melodic “Memory Lane.”

EJ Jones got BigxThaPlug for the “Gas Station Love” remix.

NLE Choppa released “Shotta Flow 8.”

Bnyx and Kid Cudi came together for the “EVERYWHERE I GO” music video.

Cochise released a fun visual for “Custard.”

DaBaby delivered his album Be More Grateful.

BEHIND THE MUSIC 🎵

Industry news.

Rolling Loud and Pelle Pelle just dropped a limited edition collector's jacket with OsamaSon as the face. You can get it here.

Mass Appeal launched a new platform for fan-driven artists collaboration called Imagine That. Think of your dream collab and submit here.

TOUR BUS 🚌

Concert and festival announcements, tour updates and live performance highlights.

Tickets for A$AP Rocky’s upcoming world tour are on sale now.

Ye was in Mexico this week performing a bunch of his hits and even shared the stage with North West, who took the moment to perform “Piercing On My Hand.”

Ne-Yo and Akon announced their 57-city Night Like This global tour.

Kid Cudi announced his Rebel Ragers Tour and tickets are now available.

FREESTYLE 🎙️

Memes and viral moments.

Ball so hard…

RAP HILL ⚖️

Legal matters affecting the music industry.

Drake appealed the dismissal of his defamation lawsuit against UMG.

Chad Hugo sued Pharrell Williams for unpaid Neptunes royalties.

Leave a comment

BIRTHDAYS 🎉

Celebrating artists and industry figures born this week.

Rakim, J. Cole, Kid Cudi, Gorilla Zoe, Anita Baker, Kirk Franklin, Jetsonmade, Angela Davis, Rick Ross, Big Freedia, Anthony Hamilton, Marvin Sapp, Adekunle Gold, Riff Raff, Charlie Wilson, Payroll Giovanni, Philthy Rich, Jody Watley, Jackie Robinson

OUTRO ✌🏽

A final thought.

Houston is like my second home. I really owe it to the city for a lot of what has inspired the motion of my career in the music industry as a journalist. Hearing the news of the passing of Watts has been heartbreaking. Growing up, all I did was listen to my music chopped. Beyond that, The Day Hell Broke Loose and Before Da Kappa are projects that have had a profound influence on my music taste. A lot of popular music has adopted its sound from the underground movement in Houston, and Watts was a significant part of that, so I just wanted to dedicate my first newsletter of 2026 to Watts. 🙏

Nevertheless, once again, Happy Black History Month!

THE BEAT DROP 🥁

A pulse of the culture.

If you’re reading this it’s another Sunday in the culture, and Young Thug’s leaked jail calls still has us all in chokehold. Not to mention, former rivals Latto and Ice Spice up linked up for the plot and delivered the music video for their collaborative effort “Gyatt.” Lastly, rumors are strengthening that a new JAY-Z album is looming upon us.

THIS WEEK’S TRACKLIST 💿

The most important news items of the week.

1. Young Thug did an interview with Big Bank to explain himself over the treasure trove of phone calls that have leaked over the past week of him talking about everybody from Drake, Future and Kendrick Lamar. A call of him chatting it up with someone not named Mariah the Scientist did as well

2. Speaking of beefs, Latto and Ice Spice squashed theirs with “Gyatt” and made an appearance on Kai Cenat’s Mafiathon.

3. Meanwhile, Cardi B was getting ready to drop Am I the Drama? and took it to the streets. Literally.

4. Cash Cobain fueled rumors that a JAY-Z project is on the way.

5. Drake’s Iceman Episode 3 streamed live with a slew of snippets…but left fans underwhelmed. He also appeared on Bobbi Althoff’s new show for a lighthearted conversation.

6. 2 Chainz announced that he’d be releasing a memoir titled, The Voice In Your Head Is God.

7. Warren G became co-owner of the Long Beach Baseball Club.

8. Future’s son with Ciara officially took on Russell Wilson’s last name.

9. Pras Michel’s sentencing was delayed after emergency colon cancer surgery. It’s been pushed back to October.

10. Dame Dash filed for bankruptcy.

BARS OF THE WEEK 🎤

Notable quotes or lyrics that made waves.

“Since elementary, bitches said I think I'm all that.” — Latto spitting on “Gyatt.”

“Hit her from the back, I'm her master / Mink on her toes, Alaska.” — Young Thug on “Closing Arguments.”

“I poured so much into him, I can’t even hate him. In jail I thought I hated him... But I don’t wish no ill will on him. No ill feelings at all.” — Young Thug on still loving Gunna still during his interview with Big Bank.

“All those summers of slappers, you owe me.” — Drake on a snippet from the ICEMAN 3 stream.

CHART TOPPERS 📈

Notable top-performing rap and R&B tracks on streaming platforms and charts.

Gunna’s album The Last Wun landed at #7 on the Billboard 100, SZA maintained her top 10 spot at No. 9 and BigXThaPlug entered at No. 10 with I Hope You’re Happy.

Offset's KIARI debuted at #16 with 29K sold.

SOUND WATCH 🎧

Upcoming releases and recent drops worth noting.

Subscribe now

Netflix Building The Band winner’s 3Quency released the music video for their single “Top Down” and I had to run it back a few times.

Latto and Ice Spice got in the ring with “Gyatt” and squashed their differences, giving us a plethora of ass-shaking gifs to work with. JaNa from Love Island also made a special appearance!

Summer’s not over yet, because Arya Starr just delivered the music video for “Hot Body.”

Justin Bieber gave us some more bangers with SWAG II, including a feature from THEE Hurricane Chris.

Song by Young Thug called “Closing Arguments” leaked, and he’s sliding and standing on business.

Houston native Josh Levi shared “Hold On.”

Every one went crazy over Drake and Yeat’s “DOGHOUSE.”

"Easy Kill" by Rio Da Yung OG was released.

Joyner Lucas shared a new one called “NVM.”

Buddha Bless and Kodak Black linked up for “Owe Me.”

Trippie Redd sampled Ashanti for “World Boss.”

SG Lewis released his third studio album Anemoia.

Paper Route Woo dropped off “Rick Owens.”

Star Bandz shared her new song “Die.”

Hennessy offered her latest smooth concoction, “On Camera.”

Big Moochie Grape released a Roblox-inspired music video for “Raww Dawwg.”

Queen Naija dropped the sensual “Rain…”

Fredo Bang delivered the introspective “Traumatized Child.”

Veeze released the music video for “L.O.A.T.”

Rema shared “Fun.”

STEAK REPORT 🥩

Feuds, diss tracks and social media spats.

It’s Young Thug vs. everybody right now. More calls were released this week like a multi-million dollar roll out and apparently, Thug had some words for Drake, Future, Andre 3000 and GloRilla.

A music video for a song titled “Closing Arguments” was also released where he dissed YSL members Gunna, Yak Gotti, Slug, DK, Woody, Obama and SlimeLife Shawty.

Watch Thug’s interview with Big Bank in full to get his perspective.

Leave a comment

TOUR BUS 🚌

Concert and festival announcements, tour updates and live performance highlights.

Lil Baby’s European tour dates were canceled.

NBA Youngboy had Dallas and Houston turnt for his “MASA” tour.

Dee-1 made a pit stop in Houston for his “Hipocritical Hop Tour.”

The Weeknd announced 2026 tour dates for the “After Hours Til Dawn Stadium Tour.”

G Herbo is set to ring in his 30th birthday at his 1st Annual Birthday Bash on Saturday, October 26th at Chicago’s Wintrust Arena.

FREESTYLE 🎙️

Memes and viral moments.

They saying this Latto and Ice Spice 😭

TRENDSETTERS

Updates on key figures who are driving the culture.

Roc Nation Founder JAY-Z, CEO Desiree Perez and Chairman Jay Brown and VP of Marketing, Bianca Edwards were recognized in Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players 2025.

CMG’s Yo Gotti was also recognized, along with Quality Control’s P and Coach K, as well as Top Dawg of TDE, among others.

OUTSIDE 📸

Sightings and appearances.

Megan Thee Stallion and Klay Thompson were seen boo’d up on his boat spending some quality time.

OG Ron C unveiled his new hemp wraps at Rain TX.

Drake was spotted in Paris being escorted by six police cars while shopping.

BIRTHDAYS 🎉

Celebrating artists and industry figures born this week.

Beyoncé, YK Osiris, August Alsina, Eazy-E, Tion Wayne

OUTRO ✌🏽

A final thought.

This week, marked the end of Latto and Ice Spice’s beef and the beginning of a beautiful friendship. “Gyatt” is a cute song and like Pimp C says, there’s always more money to be made together than in a beef.

Hopefully, Young Thug and Gunna catch on soon because my whole playlist is in shambles right now. Please respect my privacy at this time. 😔

xx

THE BEAT DROP 🥁

A pulse of the culture.

If you’re reading this it’s another weekend at the crib, and I am writing live from the H at the coffee shop Slow Drip TX sipping slow on my Iced Drip caramel coffee. This week, an old interrogation video starring Young Thug resurfaced and now people are calling him a rat, putting the whole of Atlanta in a frenzy. Cardi B also got the press in a frenzy as she fights charges from an alleged altercation with a security guard. Meanwhile, JAY-Z re-released the music video for “Imaginary Players” after Cardi B’s own version made waves earlier this month.

THIS WEEK’S TRACKLIST 💿

The most important news items of the week.

1. Young Thug has been getting the Gunna treatment after an old interrogation video popped up of him pointing the finger at Peewee Roscoe for shooting Lil Wayne’s tour bus up in 2015, thereby throwing him into the category of a rat. Whatever that means in 2025.

2. Cardi B’s assault trial started this week, with the rapper taking the stand in the case of a security guard accusing her of spitting on her 2018.

3. JAY-Z re-released the music video for “Imaginary Players” on his YouTube, following Cardi B’s rendition of the 1997 In My Lifetime, Vol. 1 cut. Apparently, there might be a new Hov album on the horizon, according to The Alchemist.

4. Travis Scott and Tyla had a scare at a music video shoot when a knife-wielding London man threatened the set.

5. Ken Carson earned four new Platinum certifications for A Great Chaos.

6. Kanye West was ordered over $52,000 in legal fees over a Donda track.

7. Funkmaster Flex announced that he’d be switching his time on Hot 97 to 5-9PM, following the Labor Day holiday.

8. Rihanna celebrated 20 years in the game with some fire merch and no new music.

9. Gunna announced his run club Wunna Run with a 5K marathon set to take place in NYC September 3. He also gave an inspiring speech ahead of the event.

10. Alchemist and Erykah Badu were supposed to drop an album this week and she blamed Al for the faux pas.

BARS OF THE WEEK 🎤

Notable quotes or lyrics that made waves.

“Y'all rapping ass niggas, y'all funny to me / You're selling records being you, but still you wanna be me.” — JAY-Z on “Imaginary Players” talking that talk.

“They jumped the gun.” — Young Thug on Lil Durk, Lil Baby, and others turning against Gunna before he could speak on it.”

“Duke you broke my heart, that pussy shit you did was flaw.” — Yak Gotti on “My Lil Soulja” saying how he feels about Duke talking to police.

“They ain’t lying though.” — 21 Savage on a line from Gunna’s song “bread & butter” saying “You switched up on me when you know you in business with a rat.”

“We be fighting shit. Everyday ain’t easy. Instead of going out there to got damn get it out, you might as well come in here. I promise the results will be better.” — Gunna inspiring his Wunna Run club members.

“I’m really not trying to be a conspiracist but I’m starting to think these phones are not just listening to us…” — Cardi B keeping it real on something we all been thinking.

CHART TOPPERS 📈

Notable top-performing rap and R&B tracks on streaming platforms and charts.

On the Billboard 200, Tyler, The Creator’s Cherry Bomb re-entered the chart at #6, BigXthaPlug landed at #7 with I Hope You’re Happy, and Gunna’s The Last Wun placed at #9.

On YouTube, Gunna entered at #25 on US Top Artists following the release of his sixth album, The Last Wun. "just say dat," ranked at #42 on US Top Songs with more than 1.4M views. Cardi B’s “Imaginary Playerz” landed at #21 on US Top Songs with more than 2.1M views and sits at #85 on US Top Artists, ahead of Am I The Drama? Chris Brown and Bryson Tiller’s hit "It Depends," entered at #14 on US Top Songs with more than 3.2M views and Brown landing at #13 on US Top Artists.

As far as certifications, Doechii updated five of her own records with the RIAA, including a Platinum plaque for “Anxiety” and a Gold one for my personal fave, “Nissan Altima.”

On radio, Playboi Carti reached #1 at Urban Radio with “Rather Lie” featuring The Weeknd.

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Upcoming releases and recent drops worth noting.

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Yak Gotti dropped a music video for “My Lil Soulja” where he comes for his label mate Lil Duke over snitching allegations.

Rising Atlanta rapper Pluto released, “Party All Night,” which expected to land on her forthcoming project Pluto World.

4batz came through with “My Lil Shoota.”

Lancey Foux and Murda Beatz linked for “White Tee.”

Raq Baby released "Switch Crowd" featuring Fattmack.

Ian, Nino Paid and Lazer Dim 700 shared the music video for "Rich in Rome."

J.I.D dropped the music video for “Community” with The Clipse.

Lil Baby teased a diss track aimed at Offset and Gunna called “Otha Boy.”

Flo Milli shared her latest single “Perfect Person” featuring Coop.

Luhh Dyl sampled Kid Cudi for "Nite N Day" featuring Babyfaxce E and 1Up Tee.

Eminem released a new one called “Everybody’s Looking At Me.”

Joey Bada$$, Ab-Soul and Rapsody came together for “STILL.”

Fridayy unleashed “Below Zero.”

DJ Khaled got Post Malone and NBA YoungBoy together for “Brothers.”

1900Rugrat delivered “Where Da Fine Shyt” featuring Rio Da Yung OG.

The Kid Laroi released “She Don’t Need To Know.”

Ella Mai shared her feelings over “Tell Her.”

Kee Nola came through with “Jezebel.”

Destin Conrad offered an album in the form of wHIMSY.

Tiara Thomas shared “A Hug.”

Bossman Dlow released "Flood / Resurrect The Trap."

DJ Snake and Don Toliver linked for "Something Wrong."

Jay Fizzle and OJ Da Juiceman delivered "Twenty Three."

Peezy and Icewear Vezzo got together for "So Ghetto.”

Yung Kayo released “Walking.”

Mick Jenkins and EMIL shared a new one called "Coco Gauff."

STEAK REPORT 🥩

Feuds, diss tracks and social media spats.

On Wednesday (August 27), a two-hour interrogation video featuring Young Thug re-surfaced and all hell broke loose in Atlanta. Now, people are saying that Thugger is a snitch because he name-dropped Peewee Roscoe as the gunman from an incident involving Lil Wayne’s tour bus getting shot up, back in 2015.

Roscoe later chimed in, claiming it was a misunderstanding, even though he had been sentenced to 10 years in prison and 10 years of probation. He further insinuated that Ralo, Lil Duke and Gunna are the real snitches.

In response, Yak Gotti dropped “My Lil Soulja,” where he referred to Lil Duke as a snitch, which prompted Duke to speak out, denying the claim.

Later, YSL Mondo came to Gunna’s defense and said that Thug has everyone brainwashed.

After all this, Ralo called Peewee Roscoe a bitch. On Thursday (August 28), Ralo shared a Motion in Limine that he claimed revealed Thug gave information about a murder. However, the motion itself states what happened is untrue, which Thug later clarified in a tweet, firmly asserting he’d NEVER rat.

Next, Ralo posted more paperwork to prove he never told on anyone, despite rumors to the contrary, and also claimed Thug told Lil Baby not to associate with him.

Thug responded, saying Ralo was willing to snitch on him and YFN Lucci to Fulton County DA Fani Willis.

As the two continued to go back and forth, and Ralo accused Thug for being the reason Atlanta rappers are turning against each other, such as Rich Homie Quan, Future, YFN Lucci and Gunna, and it is also believed that he tried to turn Birdman against Lil Wayne.

Thug took to Unfook and Duke’s defense.

As all this is going on, audio leaked of Thug wanting to ruin Gunna’s roll out for Gift and a Curse with Business Is Business. Also in the leaked audio, Thug shared more of his feelings about how things went down with Gunna. Now, Lil Baby has his own diss track called “Otha Boy” aimed at Gunna and Offset.

A lot of people are sharing their thoughts on the drama going down in ATL, and I am sure the police are having an absolute field day with folks seemingly turning against each other. As they say, loose lips sink ships.

Here’s to hoping everyone gets it together and gets back making to the beautiful music the city is known for.

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TOUR BUS 🚌

Concert and festival announcements, tour updates and live performance highlights.

Pluto announced the “Party All Night Tour.”

Lenny Kravitz is set to headline the 2025 Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival.

FREESTYLE 🎙️

Memes and viral moments.

RAP HILL ⚖️

Legal matters affecting the music industry.

In the case of Drake versus UMG, the case is currently going through the discovery phase. After UMG delivered a heavily redacted version of Kendrick Lamar’s contract with the label, Drake’s legal team filed a Motion to Compel to produce an unredacted version of the contract.

Furthermore, the judge also granted Drake’s legal team and UMG’s legal team’s request to file Lamar’s recording contract under seal under a previously filed Court Ordered Protective Order.

OUTSIDE 📸

Sightings and appearances.

Someone spotted 21 Savage and Latto together, seemingly confirming they’re together. But maybe they were just hanging out together as homies. 🙂‍↔️

Chris Brown was outside and teased a song with Sexyy Red.

BIRTHDAYS 🎉

Celebrating artists and industry figures born this week.

Cordae, Bishop Nehru, Lil Yachty, Lil Tecca, BossMan Dlow, Skaiwater, Ma$e, Fab Five Freddy, Tiffany Evans, Pebbles, Me’Shell NdegeOcello, Van Morrison, MJG

OUTRO ✌🏽

A final thought.

Chile, what is going on? One day we wake up and they calling Young Thug a snitch. For someone like me, that doesn’t matter, because I still ride around listening to Gunna. But, Thug, has stood 10 toes down, not one toe missing on how much he despises a rat — it does matter. Now, all of Atlanta is pointing the finger at each other and having a paperwork party…when in reality we the people just want the music.

I get there’s a code these men have likely lived by when they were younger and running the streets. But, when do we grow up and realize we’re not a young nigga in the street anymore? When do we let that go and realize there’s more important things to worry about in life?

The rap industry as whole seems to be in shambles and it will take some ego deaths and forgiveness to move past it. Hopefully, sooner than later.

xx

THE BEAT DROP 🥁

A pulse of the culture.

If you’re reading this it’s another Sunday in the culture and I’m still dancing to Tyler, The Creator’s Don’t Tap The Glass. I’m also immersed in the masterpiece Freddie Gibbs delivered with The Alchemist this week. Meanwhile, Drake’s “Which One” also had me on my feet.

THIS WEEK’S TRACKLIST 💿

The most important news items of the week.

1. Tyler, The Creator defied Friday release date norms with Don’t Tap The Glass dropping on a Monday, followed by $5 event invites in LA and NYC.

2. Freddie Gibbs reignited his beef with Gunna on his new project Alfredo 2 with The Alchemist

3. Episode two of Drake’s ICEMAN livestream series made its debut along with “Which One” featuring Central Cee. He also confirmed that ICEMAN will be the title of the highly-anticipated album.

4. Beyoncé brought out Destiny’s Child for her final “Cowboy Carter Tour” show in Las Vegas.

5. Nino Paid was arrested on Thursday (July 24) for stealing a car. His trial date is set for Sept. 26.

6. GloRilla was also arrested, albeit wrongfully. Police were called for a robbery that occurred at her residence and authorities took her in instead.

7. The man claiming to be JAY-Z’s son withdrew his lawsuit.

8. Meanwhile, JAY-Z held a Caesars Palace Times Square Community Advisory Committee in hopes of landing bid to put a casino in Manhattan.

9. Hot Boy Turk was kicked off the Cash Money Reunion Tour.

10. JID shot a music video with fans ahead of his album release God Does Like Ugly.

BARS OF THE WEEK 🎤

Notable quotes or lyrics that made waves.

“Are you from Harlem? Make your arms and legs shake,” — Tyler getting jiggy on “Sugar On My Tongue” off Don’t Tap The Glass.

“Still slammin’ / Still bout it, still countin / Feel like the only nigga rap cold as me, André 3000 / Bitch, I raised a generation, kicked game on a thousand albums / I should go get me a flute and just disappear in the mountains.” — Freddie Gibbs spit on “A Thousand Mountains.”

“Got a fairy ting and I got a witch one / A G'd up ting that I bring sticks 'round / And I've got a good girl, good girl, snitch one.” — Central Cee on “Which One.”

“I'm above with all that state shit, I done beat up different cases.” — NBA Youngboy flexing all the cases he beat on “MASA”

CHART TOPPERS 📈

Notable top-performing rap and R&B tracks on streaming platforms and charts.

Tyler, The Creator’s Don’t Tap The Glass landed at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 with only four tracking days.

On YouTube, NBA Youngboy landed at No. 1 on the top Rap Artists list following the release of his album MASA.

Clipse’s Let God Sort Em Out debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Independent Albums Chart via Roc Nation Distribution.

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Upcoming releases and recent drops worth noting.

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Tyler The Creator’s Don’t Tap The Glass is a continuation of the greatness that is Igor, if you ask me. 10 songs deep, it’s aimed to get everyone on their feet. So GET UP!

Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist came through this week with Alfredo 2 and it’s magnificent. You just have to hear it for yourself.

Drake also got the crowd moving with another one expected to land on ICEMAN titled “Which One” featuring Central Cee.

Offset offered the music video to his latest release “Professional.”

Ayra Starr’s “Hot Body” is out.

Hit-Boy offered the music video for his new song “What’s The Deal?” to celebrate being officially released from his music deal.

Tyla’s dance-fueled mixtape We Wanna Party (WWP) was released starring four songs including “DYNAMITE” featuring Wizkid.

Trevor Jackson dropped off “Friend of a Friend.”

Jorja Smith is back with a new one called “With You” and it came with a music video.

Kee Nola shared the music video for “At the Top.”

Baby Money’s "Boobie Trap” visual was released.

Amaarae shared the visuals for “Girlie-Pop!”

Kodak Black dropped off "By Myself” featuring DJ E Money and G6reddot.

NBA Youngboy finally released MASA (Make America Slime Again).

The legendary Kurupt teamed up with DJ Battlecat and Blaqtoven for “Special.”

Mariah Carey shared “Sugar Sweet” with Kehlani and Shenseea.

mgk dropped the music video for “miss sunshine.”

Bia is back with “ONE THING.”

Umi shared two new singles, “What Now” and “Somewhere New” from her forthcoming project people stories.

American Idol winner Jamal Roberts shared his new single “Mississippi.”

Benny the Butcher and Westside Gunn came together for “Jasmine’s.”

Rio Da Yung OG and Zillionaire Doe tapped in with each other for “What U Spend.”

Lupe Fiasco dropped off “SOS.”

BBYKOBE shared his EP She Love BBYKOBE.

Toosii got vulnerable with the music video for his latest release “Even Then.”

The Kid Laroi got on a boat and said he got “Hot Girl Problems.”

Chow Lee offered the official music video for “Hold It Down 4 Me.”

Joyner Lucas took aim at Skepta on “Round 2 K.O.”

DB.Boutabag dropped off The Real Boutabag II.

Nobu Woods offered a new called “Dirty.”

Jenevieve is getting ready to share her next project and offered a trio of vibes called “Head Over Heels,” “Haiku” and “Crysalis.”

BEHIND THE MUSIC 🎵

Industry news.

The global live entertainment market is expected to grow from USD 202.90 billion in 2025 to USD 270.29 billion by 2030 according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets™.

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TOUR BUS 🚌

Concert and festival announcements, tour updates and live performance highlights.

“The Cowboy Carter Tour” wrapped on Saturday in Las Vegas with the reuniting of Beyoncé and Destiny’s Child.

Yseult set to return back to the states at the top of January 2026.

Rob49 is ready to take over the stage like never before with the announcement of his debut solo headlining tour, “Let Me Fly Tour,” launching in October.

AfroPlus Fest will debut Sunday, August 31 at RFK Festival Grounds in Washington, D.C. featuring Gunna and Asake.

GIVĒON has formally announced his headlining tour, “Dear Beloved, The Tour,” set to kick off in October.

The iconic Cash Money Millionaires, featuring Birdman, Mannie Fresh, Juvenile and B.G, are expanding their milestone anniversary tour with additional dates.

The Weeknd and Shakira will headline the 2025 Global Citizen Festival, with performances by Tyla, Ayra Starr and Mariah the Scientist set to take place on Central Park’s Great Lawn on September 27.

Sexyy Red is set to host a “Back To School Bash” with GloRilla, Rob49, Bossman DLow and more, in her hometown of St. Louis on Sept. 6.

FREESTYLE 🎙️

Memes and viral moments.

True.

OUTSIDE 📸

Sightings and appearances.

Jay "Jeezy" Jenkins hosted a "Community Day" on Saturday (July 26th), the 20th anniversary of his debut album Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101 at Impact Church in Georgia.

BIRTHDAYS 🎉

Celebrating artists and industry figures born this week.

Petey Pablo, Bre-Z, Lil Woody, Kevin McCall, Lil Phat, Westside Gunn, Guapdad 4000, Young Dolph

THE BEAT DROP 🥁

A pulse of the culture.

If you’re reading this it’s another weekend at the crib, and I am getting into JACKBOYS 2, as you should too. This week had a lot going on as usual, including Drake taking over Wireless Festival for three days straight and Clipse’s album leaking before its official release date.

THIS WEEK’S TRACKLIST 💿

The most important news items of the week.

1. Travis Scott released JACKBOYS 2 with on a SUNDAY.

2. Drake had London turned up at Wireless Festival and brought out Lauryn Hill, Skepta, Central Cee, Sexyy Red, plus more and his final show wrapped a little earlier than expected.

3. DDG also pulled up to the show and got a shout out from the 6 God himself.

4. Clipse’s album Let Got Sort Em Out leaked. I wonder who was responsible for that?

5. Justin Bieber dropped an album called SWAG and it’s beyond good.

6. Jail pics of Blueface surfaced and he looks absolutely jacked.

7. Kid Cudi married his longtime girlfriend Lola Abecassis Sartore.

8. Megan Thee Stallion popped out with Klay Thompson and sparked dating rumors.

9. Metro Boomin debuted a MySpace-inspired website to debut who will be on his upcoming mixtape A Futuristic Summa.

BARS OF THE WEEK 🎤

Notable quotes or lyrics that made waves.

"Yeah, man, I swear these old niggas kill me / Know my YNs feel me / They just want the real me / Blue Bugatti, I'm dodging TMZ / Made a hundred off pushing T's / Now my phone on DND.” — Travis Scott on “CHAMPAIN & VACAY” off JACKBOYS 2 responding to Pusha T’s diss.

"You know I know where you're delicate / Crush you to pieces, I'll hum a breath of it / I will close your Heaven for the Hell of it.” — Pusha T on “Chains & Whips.”

“Clipse is for bitter grown men who collect Kaws dolls and shop at Kith and Union.” — Kerwin Frost on his IG stories comparing Clipse to Justin Bieber — that JB himself reshared.

“I don't care about that at all. It's fine. I would miss me, too. I really would.” — Pusha T on his thoughts of Kanye West saying he missed him.

“Nobody can out rap London. Nobody. No disrespect to America. No disrespect to my country. But, nobody can out rap London rappers.” — Drake on the Wireless Festival stage speaking rubbish.

CHART TOPPERS 📈

Notable top-performing rap and R&B tracks on streaming platforms and charts.

Drake reclaimed the top spot with the rapper with the most Spotify listeners following the release of “What Did I Miss?”

Furthermore, Drizzy and PartyNextDoor’s $$$4U lifted up seven spots on the Billboard 200 to No. 10 with Bad Bunny sitting at No. 7.

SZA’s SOS shot up three spots, landing at No. 4.

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Upcoming releases and recent drops worth noting.

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Travis Scott’s JACKBOYS 2 is out now 17 songs deep with features from Future, GloRilla, 21 Savage and more. I highly recommend “PBT” with Tyla and Vybz Kartel, personally.

Clipse Let God Sort Em Out dropped filled with 13 luxury raps and features from the likes of Tyler, The Creator, Nas, Kendrick Lamar, and the usual suspect Pharrell Williams, among others.

Justin Bieber caught the world by surprise with his sonically dominating SWAG album. Light on features, Sexyy Red, Cash Cobain, Gunna and Lil B all make an appearance, along with Druski on the skits.

Larry June and Cardo unleashed Until Night Comes.

Homixide Gang released their rockstar made single “5G.”

Tyla dropped off her new track “Is It.”

Burna Boy delivered the danceable No Sign of Weakness.

Lil Tony came through with Tkey v Tony.

mgk offered the music video for “vampire diaries.”

DB.Boutabag shared the visual for “Slight Vent Pt. 3.”

B.U.G Antman unleashed “Belt.”

Eddie Valero popped off with “Clark Kent” right on time for that new Superman movie.

Kid Cudi shared “Grave” ahead of the release of his forthcoming project Free.

Giveon blessed us with his latest album BELOVED.

Odeal released his project The Summer That Saved Me with a feature from Leon Thomas.

BEHIND THE MUSIC 🎵

Industry news.

Megan Thee Stallion's Pete & Thomas Foundation will honor Southern Black Girls and Women's Consortium founder LaTosha Brown alongside 13-year-old mental health advocate Mila Henry at the gala. The event will be hosted by Taraji P. Henson in New York.

STEAK REPORT 🥩

Feuds, diss tracks and social media spats.

Nicki Minaj is claiming JAY-Z owes $200M from TIDAL. She alleged that she was given 24 hours to sign a contract for $1M — a whole lot less than what she was promised. It sounds like she upheld her part of her deal and despite doing so, the other party did not uphold their part. Now, she is out for blood and wants the heads of anyone associated with Roc Nation on a platter.

Which brings me to this No NDA Network Twitter account that is hellbent on exposing the entire music industry if some key players don’t pay them what they’re owed. The account accurately predicted Justin Bieber’s SWAG release and unveiled information surrounding Carti and JACKBOYS 2. They are coming for Roc Nation as well, along with Atlantic, UMG, EMPIRE and a few names I am familiar with. 🍿

There’s also some weird thing going on with Bieber, Clipse and Roc Nation. Strange because the audiences are NOT the same, yet people are speculating something is brewing because the Roc Nation Distribution account posted Biebs mugshot to their story with “CLIPSE” emblazoned across and Justin responded with a repost from Kerwin Frost, insulting the kind of people who listen to Clipse’s music.

None of this was on my bingo card, but I am surely paying attention the way it needs to be paid.

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TOUR BUS 🚌

Concert and festival announcements, tour updates and live performance highlights.

J Balvin, Doja Cat and Tems lit up MetLife Stadium for the FIFA Club Worldwide Halftime Show.

Post Malone wrapped up his sold out ‘Big Ass Tour’ with Jelly Roll in San Francisco and fans sang him “Happy Birthday.”

FREESTYLE 🎙️

Memes and viral moments.

RAP HILL ⚖️

Legal matters affecting the music industry.

Judge Vargas still hasn’t ruled on whether she will be dismissing Drake’s lawsuit against UMG. We are waiting to see how this one unfurls.

OUTSIDE 📸

Sightings and appearances.

Lauryn Hill, Central Cee, Kevin Durant, DDG, Adin Ross, Latto, Sexyy Red, Mario, Vanessa Carlton, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Dave, J Hus, Skepta, Popcaan, Rema, Vybz Kartel and more popped out for Drake’s 3-Day Wireless Festival residency.

BIRTHDAYS 🎉

Celebrating artists and industry figures born this week.

MF DOOM, Lil Kim, Dougie B, Rhymefest, CJ Fly, Capital Steez, Lil Zane, Nine Vicious, Jucee Froot, China Mac, Warhol.SS, Sevyn Streeter, D Woods, Jaden Smith, Lute

OUTRO ✌🏽

A final thought.

I never thought Travis Scott would respond to Pusha T but he did. If you check out JACKBOYS 2 cut “Champain & Vacay,” you will hear Trav left him a few lines. I always felt like if Travis were to respond, it would obviously be on a slapper that would move the crowd — I was correct. Although the response itself is lukewarm, however the kids will be raging to this. Was it necessary for La Flame to say anything? Not really. Pusha’s diss towards the Mo City rapper itself was unnecessary but I guess Push had that on his chest and needed to get it off.

Other than that, JACKBOYS 2 is just what I expected from the Cactus Jack collective. It’s the kind of music that gets the crowd hype. Even though it’s being met with mixed reviews, I’ve never been the type to take the peanut gallery seriously. I especially love “PBT,” “DUMBO” and “NO COMMENT,” so JACKBOYS 2 will be in rotation.

xx

THE BEAT DROP 🥁

A pulse of the culture.

It’s another Sunday at the crib, and I definitely have Drake’s “What Did I Miss?” on repeat. It’s time to move forward y’all and this week felt like the beginning of a new era. To start, a jury came back with a verdict in the Diddy RICO trial — so that saga is quickly coming to an end and XXL Magazine released their 2025 Freshman list and I am not mad it.

THIS WEEK’S TRACKLIST 💿

The most important news items of the week.

1. Drake’s ICEMAN era began with the release of “What Did I Miss?”

2. Diddy was found not guilty on three of five counts in his RICO case, including RICO, which avoids a government seizure of $400M in assets. He was denied bailed and is set for sentencing July 8.

3. The 2025 XXL Freshman list was unveiled with some of my faves such as BabyChiefDoIt, Lazer Dim 700, Nino Paid, Loe Shimmy, Eem Triplin and YTB Fatt.

4. That being said, XXL Freshman EBK Jaaybo is facing 30 years in prison.

5. Trippie Redd was arrested at a Miami Airport related to a 2023 invalid drivers license case. He was quickly released out on bond.

6. Mello Buckzz's album release party resulted in a shooting, leaving four dead and 14 injured.

7. Outlawz member Young Nobel passed away by suicide. He was 47.

8. Skepta challenged American rappers to a clash versus UK rappers, and he’s probably the only one interested tbh.

9. Offset asked a judge for help in serving producer ChaseTheMoney since all attempts were blocked by security at the producer’s studio.

10. It turns out when you search “💩” on Apple Music, DDG’s music pops up.

BARS OF THE WEEK 🎤

Notable quotes or lyrics that made waves.

“IDGAF if you love me. IDGAF if you like me.” — Drake addressing the traitors on “What Did I Miss?”

“Supermax, for what I got going on I’m too relaxed.” — Drizzy on a song expected to make an appearance on ICEMAN called “Super Max.”

“The cards I was handed determined the gambit / It made me the man, but it turned me into Manson / Son of a madman Max, minimal chances.” — JID going crazy on “Animals (Pt. 1).”

“How you mobbin' with them niggas? / How you strivin' with them niggas?” — A$AP Rocky getting inquisitive on “pray4dagang."

“I'll crash about my bitch, that's my ball.” — Something Ace would say about Chelley, but it’s just DDG on “That’s My Ball.”

CHART TOPPERS 📈

Notable top-performing rap and R&B tracks on streaming platforms and charts.

SZA’s SOS sits at #7 on the Billboard charts with over 7M units sold.

RUSS’ W!LD entered the Billboard 200 at #10, whereas Playboi Carti’s MUSIC pushed up to #8 on the Billboard 200.

Pluto landed her first entry into the Billboard 200 at #190 with her Both Ways EP.

SOUND WATCH 🎧

Upcoming releases and recent drops worth noting.

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Drake delivered “What Did I Miss?,” a goodie off his forthcoming ICEMAN album while he rode around Toronto in an ice truck blasting songs from the highly anticipated project. One of the songs expected to land on ICEMAN is something fans have titled “Super Max.”

Capitalizing off his coined saying, DDG dropped off the rambunctious “That’s My Ball” produced by FOREVEROLLING so you know it slaps.

Chance the Rapper released “Tree” featuring Smino and Lil Wayne.

A$AP Rocky “pray4dagang” featuring KayCyy was released. Album next? Who knows.

Lizzo dropped her mixtape MY FACE HURTS FROM SMILING with features from Doja Cat and SZA.

JID GDLU Preluxe four songs deep including “Animals (Pt. 1)” with Eminem.

Trae Tha Truth released a new project titled Angel.

Sins Aloud by Lazer Dim 700 was unleashed.

Mello Buckzz dropped Hollyhood.

Don Toliver offered the music video for the jiggy “FWU.”

BEHIND THE MUSIC 🎵

Industry news.

YIKES! Warner Music Group CEO Robert Kyncl announced that the label will be reducing their headcount by $170M.

THE BLUEPRINT

A deep dive of trending topics, artist profiles and music analysis.

TOUR BUS 🚌

Concert and festival announcements, tour updates and live performance highlights.

Drake is set to headline Wireless Festival July 11-13.

Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter Tour” is almost coming to a close. After her July 4 D.C. performance, she is set to take over Atlanta for four nights and Las Vegas for two nights. Act III is otw — and no one is more excited than me!

Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Grand National Tour” resumed across the pond this week, and is expected to wrap early August.

The Weeknd broke records while performing at SoFi Stadium this week, drawing in over 200k fans.

BigXThaPlug announced that he will be going on NBA Youngboy’s “Make America Slime Again Tour,” which is set to kick off September 1.

FREESTYLE 🎙️

Memes and viral moments.

CDL Drizzy.

RAP HILL ⚖️

Legal matters affecting the music industry.

In the matter of Drake’s ongoing defamation suit against UMG, Judge Vargas has decided that she’ll decide whether or not to dismiss the lawsuit on her own time. UMG’s legal team and Drake’s legal team defended their reasoning as to why the lawsuit should be dismissed or not. Judge Vargas challenged both sides equally. No word on when she will come to a decision, though.

What a cliffhanger…

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OUTSIDE 📸

Sightings and appearances.

Sexyy Red was spotted with DDG using his real voice in Paris and later with Justin Bieber at the studio.

Playboi Carti, GloRilla, 21 Savage, Vybz Kartel, Sahbabii and more were seen posted up on the Jackboys Lambo — which means Jackboys 2 is otw.

BIRTHDAYS 🎉

Celebrating artists and industry figures born this week.

Fantasia, Missy Elliott, Saweetie, Vince Staples, Post Malone, RZA, Joe, Royce Da 5’9, Bizarre, 50 Cent, Cassidy

OUTRO ✌🏽

A final thought.

I could never turn my back on Drake. Too many memories attached to too many hits. That said, I am so happy he’s getting back to what matters. My prediction: the ICEMAN era will be legendary — just like If You’re Reading This, It’s Too Late. It’s no secret, vengeful Drake is the best Drake and that’s exactly what we are about to get.

LET’S GO!

xx

Last week, I had the honor of meeting up with Corey "C-Notes" Calder, the SVP of Marketing and Creative at Artist Partner Group, one of the industry's most sought-after marketing masterminds and I learned so much about how he got to where he is today by staying culturally true. It’s quite the tale and nevertheless inspiring.

To begin with, his origin story involves styrofoam padding, a bathroom-turned-studio, and burning CDs for his friends at school to now being a member of the XXL Awards Board and twice Billboard Power Player nominee.

Corey earned his nickname “C-Notes" back in high school when his basketball teammates started calling him out for ditching practice to sing with the choir. What began as gentle ribbing from friends who compared him to R&B star Trey Songz quickly became his calling card in the music world. While his teammates were perfecting their jump shots, Corey was perfecting his craft by transforming his bathroom into a makeshift recording studio.

Armed with nothing but a “YouTube University” education and cracked versions of Ableton, Fruity Loops and Pro Tools, this self-described "nerdy" 120-pound kid who wore glasses discovered his superpowers: he could hoop, he could sing, he could play the trumpet, and most importantly, he could spot talent and create the perfect soundtrack for it. His entrepreneurial spirit emerged early when he launched Ivy League, his own mini-label operated from his bedroom while his mother was at work.

Fast forward to today, and "C-Notes" has become the architect behind some of music's biggest breakout stories at APG, the independent powerhouse founded by Mike Caren. Under Calder's creative leadership, APG has nurtured chart-toppers like NBA YoungBoy and Kevin Gates, while simultaneously launching the next generation of stars including Atlanta upstart phenom BunnaB, “Ick” artist Lay Bankz, Chicago's BabyChiefDoit, and breakout Southern Blues “Boots On The Ground” act 803 Fresh.

His journey from his makeshift bathroom studio to APG reads like a masterclass in cross-industry fluency. But perhaps what makes Corey's story most compelling is how those early days of burning CDs and passing them out at school taught him a fundamental truth that still drives his work today: great music marketing isn't just about algorithms and TikTok, it's about creating authentic connections that make people want to share your story.

From his Jersey roots to cultivating LA dreams, bathroom studios to Billboard charts, Corey "C-Notes" Calder proves that sometimes the best executives are the ones who never forgot what it felt like to be the artist.

We talk all this plus more. Read the condensed and edited version of our convo below.

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So you traded in the trumpet for the basketball. Then, you traded in the basketball for music after high school. How did that lead into you working with artists?

CC: A lot of my friends are super talented. There were some real talented folks that I grew up with and everyone was a little different. That's what opened my eyes up to making music. At one point I thought I was gonna be an audio engineer. I love the technical aspect of music, but also creating the music. I was hyper focused on that at one point and I had taught myself so much just from YouTube and trial and error from recording my friends. I was gonna be an engineer.

One of my first internships actually was interning for Mike Caren. When I was 19 years old at Atlantic Records in the A&R Department. This is almost full circle in an odd way that I'm working for him now and have been for the last few years, but that was my first internship. At the time, people would send demos into a label. In the A&R office at Atlantic, they had these big cardboard boxes with physical CDs in them, and they would make the interns go in these boxes and take the CD out and listen to whatever was on the CD. There were hundreds of CDs and that was part of the job. The other part of the job was deciphering lyrics from the artists signed to Atlantic. I remember I got Webbie at the time and I would be sitting at the computer trying to decipher Webbie lyrics to send to legal. It was a learning experience. Even though you were doing the grunt stuff, you got a chance to learn.

So from that pile of CDs that you had to go through at what point did you start to bring in artists or start the A&R and marketing?

CC: It started early. In that scenario, it was just about us finding whoever we thought was good and passing it on to the A&Rs. When I first started finding artists on my own and taking them under my wing and wanting to market them, it started with my friends. I have so many friends that are talented musicians. Singers, writers, rappers and it started there. It started with my close friends and immediate circle.

As I got into the industry, it started to become about what I was seeing out in the wild, on the internet or at a showcase or word of mouth. That is what's helped my career in a lot of ways. It's just been my ability to identify talent in nontraditional settings. I say that because I feel now A&R is research based and internet based, but back in the day, you could be in a bar in Toledo, sipping your drink and somebody wants to go up and perform at a karaoke night and they have an incredible voice and you sign them on the spot. That's the dream. It's a very romantic way to find an artist. It doesn't exist as much anymore. I do remember a time where that's what it was about, and I'm glad that I got a chance to experience that a little bit. That's how I started, just on MySpace music.

Who was the first artist that you discovered?

CC: Jeremiah.

Jeremiah!?

CC: Jeremiah was—I wouldn't say I discovered him—but I would say Jeremiah was one of the first people that I remember being on MySpace music that was just crushing it. He had "Birthday Sex." That was a song he had written and put up on MySpace music. That's how he got his deal, off that record. It was something he just recorded on his own, put up on MySpace music and it blew up. Back in the day, A&Rs used MySpace music the way they use TikTok now. So it's the beginning of the transition of being physically out in the wild to artist to digital. To digital A&R. I would say MySpace music was probably the start of that.

I definitely had "Birthday Sex" on my MySpace page. I say that song is definitely one of the quintessential MySpace songs. I feel everybody had that.

CC: It was such a great song and Jeremiah is a talented writer. It was just miles ahead of anything that was on MySpace music at the time. So it stood out. Obviously he got signed off that and the rest is history, but it just goes to show how easily your life can change with a little bit of recording equipment and some creativity.

So how are you finding talent now?

CC: Right now, it's social media. It's so interesting because people aren't really doing showcases. Especially post-pandemic I feel it changed even more. There are platforms The Basement Series and things that are super dope. Now the way the industry has changed, it all exists and lives online. A lot of what my team does, our A&R is here at APG. They spend a lot of time on the net, on TikTok, researching, looking at what sounds and songs have momentum and having conversations with these artists about it.

So how do you guys determine if an artist is signed or not?

CC: Have a conversation. At the end of the day, people forget that this is a human business. At the very least, having a simple conversation works. A lot of times if the artist is hotter, they have something that's moving, you're having multiple conversations, which can be overwhelming for new artists. It starts with just a "Hi, hello" and asking the right questions. It's just a simple, “Are you signed? What's your situation?” Some are. Some aren't. Some are getting out of situations. That's where the creativity in a good A&R team comes in—is, hey, if you're in something, how can we structure something? Are there one-offs we can do? At the very least, can we just collab? I have an artist, can you hop on a song?

So even if they're signed, you still try to figure out a way.

CC: You never know if that artist might be next. Even if they do end up signing to another label and they remember their experience with you at a different label, they might just mess with you because of that interaction they had with you through DMs. That's a lot of times how great collabs come about.

So let's talk about some of the talent that you have found, more recently, my favorite, BunnaB.

CC: Bunna had a different situation maybe a year and a half ago. She was down at Atlantic and she got out of her deal. She was just looking for a new home. She came in, met with our team here earlier this year. Obviously Bunna is a superstar. Her personality, her temperament, her ability to write music, her ability to rally culture—all while staying true to herself. She's young and has been remarkable to see.

She came in, we had a great meeting and she was like, let's do it. It went from this thing where she was getting out of a situation and trying to figure that out, to we hit the ground running. She had this concept for her project, and I loved the idea, it felt refreshing to what was happening in Atlanta. Mind you, there's super dope talent coming out of Atlanta. Bankroll Ni, Pluto, YK Niece. All the girlies are crushing it in Atlanta.

My approach to it really was just how can I position her a little bit different? She had this Ice Cream Summer project idea, I just helped bring it to life. It was all about executing her vision and doing it a way that felt authentic to her without losing the elements of Atlanta. We dropped that project maybe three weeks after we signed her. It was that fast. She had a bunch of songs already recorded. We put it out. I went to Atlanta. We shot the "Ice Cream Girl" video. Then she shot the video for "Bunna Summa" right after that. She's just been on a roll. We've been creating and doing stuff, and then "Bunna Summa" took off.

They say there's no summer song…I'm like hello.

CC: "Bunna Summa"

How do you feel about that? A lot of people are saying there's not a summer song, that there's no such thing anymore.

CC: I see why they say that because I feel people always reference summer '16, because Drake was crushing it. I will say that it's saturated now. There's a lot of great songs. The difference between a summer ‘16 and a summer ‘25 is there's no ownership. There's just a lot of great songs in the market. What's going to differentiate the good from the great is really the artist and their engagement and how they're showing up for their fans and how they're articulating themselves, their live show — people are back outside.

I feel a lot of artists now post-pandemic are just heavily relying on content. They're sort of hiding behind just content instead of being outside. I always tell artists, you got to build for the culture, not just the platforms. You got to make sure you're in the right spaces, you're connecting with the right people, you're connected with other artists, you're doing stuff in your city, you're outside. Not just doing social content, not just doing great videos, but you're touching your fans. I feel there's a lot of new artists that are great at making music, great at making videos, but not touching the fans as much as they could be.

That's important instead of trying to be…you're not Frank Ocean.

CC: You're not Frank Ocean. That's the difference maker. You can have a big song and no one know what you look like.

Is that a bad thing or a good thing?

CC: That happens a lot. TikTok is a big catapult of that because there's so many great sounds and songs and clips and edits and mashups of things. I wouldn't say it's a problem per se. It's really up to the artists and their teams to make sure that they're attached to it all. I've dealt with that myself where I have sounds bigger than the artists and people aren't really associating the sound with the artists. A lot of that takes groundwork. That's building narratives online, seeding the right things, doing cool things, creating short profile pieces on the artist, so people can start to attach, oh, that's this artist. That takes effort, and that's intentionality from your team and not all artists have that. It's hard and also it's tough to follow that up. When that happens, you have a big song and it takes off and no one knows who you are, then you got to follow it up.

Another song that they're saying is song of Summer is "Boots on the Ground." 803 Fresh. Beyoncé performed that on her “Cowboy Carter Tour.” Did y'all know that was gonna happen?

CC: We had no idea that she was gonna be doing that. I just caught glimpses of it on the internet. She's been extremely generous to the team and Fresh, she invited him out to a show. He went to a show out here in LA at SoFi and got a chance to meet her and JAY and just chop it up. She's been amazing about it. She didn't have to use it in her show. Beyoncé is a cultural icon. She's just knowledgeable.

She's super tapped in. She just knew.

CC: She just immediately knew, this is the record. There was a lot of momentum around it with Kamala Harris and Michelle Obama and some other influential figures making videos to it. Her team probably caught wind and she made a dope mashup to it that she was performing, just traveling across on the bedazzled horseshoe. It was dope to see it because Fresh is a new artist. He's from South Carolina. He 100% is the face of Southern blues. He put the song out in December. It's been six months and his life has been crazy. We've done a lot of dope stuff.

I went out to South Carolina and shot the "Boots On The Ground" video back in April. The thing with that video and probably one of the crowning moments of my career, is because it was the first time I got a chance to create something and help work on something that felt so authentically true to my culture and to my people. There wasn't a lot of bells and whistles. We didn't try to do too much. We just wanted to take a snapshot of what the true culture is in the South. That's Divine 9, HBCU bands, drum majors, the food, the trail rides, the community. That's what the video became about. We didn't make it about the celebrities doing the “Boots On The Ground” dance. We didn't want to make it too internet-y. We definitely focused on what I mentioned, making it for the culture as opposed for the platforms.

People gravitated towards it. It went number one for a while, which I honestly didn't expect.

How does that feel? Something that you worked on, just unexpectedly goes number one or gets love from Beyoncé?

It was great. It's amazing. You don't do stuff with that in mind. You don't do stuff with, hey, I want Beyoncé to use it, or this is going to go number one. As a marketer, especially music, you just take shots. You hope that it lands. You don't know. I always say fans pick the hits. The executives don't. You think something's gonna do well, but we don't know. I cared more about let's not screw this up, and let's not make Fresh look crazy. Let's just do something that feels like his hometown. That's what we did. People saw it and said, yep, this is the South. They rocked with it. It just happened to go number one, and I'm proud of that because he's a new artist. It's hard to go number one.

Who came up with the dance? Was that a fan made thing?

It was a fan made thing by Tre Little. There were different variations in pockets of people who took it and made it their own thing. Miss Shirley, who was a four-year-old girl from South Carolina, was another young influencer who took it and went viral initially around the record and that spread like wildfire. From there, we started getting the celebrities and the former VP and all these people jumping on it. Taraji and Niecy Nash and all these folks, and it just snowballed from there.

I know you work with Youngboy, Kevin Gates, Lay Bankz, BabyChiefDoIt…I have a list of people that I feel are going to blow up. I just feel I know. I just want to know how do you determine an artist that you feel…let me work with this artist. Let me sign this artist. Besides the good music.

CC: It's a work ethic thing. Mike and I would always talk about I'm a sports person, I come from a sports background. We would always talk about how we want artists that come from sports or have played sports. The reason being is because there's a little bit different mentality to people that have had sports background. Just a little bit more grit, a little bit more energy, a little bit more effort. Even though not all of our artists have sports backgrounds, we definitely use a lot of sports methodologies and strategies and philosophies here. That's super important. I look for your work ethic. You don't need to know everything and you might not need to know everything, but are you willing to do the work?

My approach to my artist is very much big brother, little brother, big brother, little sister. That's how I approach my artist. It's always from a place of education and providing information and giving them the right resources to be successful. Not necessarily telling them what to do, but making suggestions. I look for an artist that listens. I look for an artist that has hunger. I look for an artist that has vision. I need you to know where we're going, because if I'm truly going to be your partner in this, I'm going to allow you to drive the ship.

I don't care if you're 16 and I don't care if you're 21. You got yourself here. I need you to have some sort of vision, and I want you to tell me what that vision is, and I'll work with you on deciphering how to make it all happen. That's what my job is. My job is not to tell these kids this is what you need to do and this is how you do it. It's more, you tell me what you want to do, and I'll tell you what's feasible and how we get there.

That's how most people feel it is. They think that there's people just telling artists exactly, this is what you need to do and that's just how it works.

CC: Not here. That's not my approach to things. I don't think that works.

I don't think so either.

CC: You can't really take a cookie cutter approach to how you develop an artist. What you realize when you work in music and you're in a position to make a difference in an artist's life, you get really wrapped up into their personal life. You almost have to. You're developing not just the creative and the artist, but you're also developing the person. A lot of it comes from just having a custom approach to how you get things done.

Just speaking about what you do here at APG. What is a typical day for you here as SVP of Marketing and Creative?

CC: It's a mixed bag. Marketing at a label is sort of 50% strategy and administrative. Getting the timelines together, make sure we have the assets and being the center spoke of the wheel, making sure that you're communicating things and everybody's on board. The creative side of it is more the strategy, around how we supplement and support the timeline and all of those things.

A lot of my day consists of planning. Making sure that all the other cogs in the wheel are on board and have what they need. Also big picture marketing and big picture thinking. How do we get from A to B? What's going to be the most seamless way? Thinking through timelines, thinking through releases, how are we making cultural impact? Where are we at globally? Are there other pockets that we're not thinking about? How can we make competitive content? How can I get my new artist that might have a little inkling of a song online? How can I get them in front of all of our partners and get them to care? A lot of strategic planning and thinking and communication internally and externally.

So for the next generation of executives and A&Rs, how can they navigate and one day become someone who's working at a label?

CC: The best way to go about that, honestly, is just staying true to yourself, knowing what your strengths and your weaknesses are. The way that I got here was knowing what I was great at and being able to spend more of my time doing that, but also having a clear understanding of, I'm not so good at this over here and making sure that I brought the right people and teams around me to support my weaker side. Whether it's a great friend group or a mentor or colleagues, whatever it may be, that's super important to getting to the next level.

When you're working in a job that's highly visible, you need that support. You need people around you that are going to tell you, Corey, that's not a good idea. You need that juxtaposition of thinking all your ideas are great and also people telling you that's not going to work. If you want to get to the next level, surround yourself with incredible people and just stay on the grind and know it might take a little bit of time, but it will happen. Stay vigilant, be creative, and keep finding talent. That's the way to get in.

How would you suggest they get their start? How does one go about finding talent and then say bringing it to someone like you?

CC: I get cold emails all the time. I get people sending me beats, I get people sending me artists that they found. Internships are honestly a great way. Internships still work in the music business. We have a lot of talented interns here. A lot of our staff were interns at first. I'd probably say on the marketing team, probably a good 30-40% of the marketing team here was an intern. In music, people want to know that you can do the job.

Being able to get in the door via internship is awesome because then you get a chance to show people that you can actually do the job. It's noticeable because at a label, there's so many things to do. It's a bit of a land grab. They always need help. If you're able to get in the door via internship and showcase and display that you can do something that's beneficial, there's a high chance that you can get put on and from there you can grow. The benefit of social media is that there's that red tape removed a little bit. You can get to a lot of people that you probably couldn't get to before. You're utilizing all those channels to get there.

Tell me what artist you're working with and the projects they have coming out that you have that you're working on right now.

On the more established side, I've been working with Kevin Gates for a little bit now. I dropped I'm Him 2, which is a followup to his iconic mixtape. He dropped a few years back that did well for us. We're rolling into his next mixtape with Luca Brasi 4, which I'm going to drop. We're going to drop Luca Brasi 4 next month. Been working a lot creatively with Youngboy. He's a former APG artist, but I've just been having my hands on that a little bit more creatively. He has an album coming out, Make America Slime Again. We're working through the logistics and the planning. My smaller developing acts, BunnaB and BabyChief. B's in the studio. She's in record mode, and I'm hoping to drop another project this summer.

Another one this summer?

CC: Another one this summer. If I can. Fingers crossed. BabyChiefDoIt, we just dropped his Zoo Life project a month and a half ago. He's another one who's in the studio hoping to drop another one before the end of the summer and Baby Kia out of Atlanta; we have a project called D1 Crash Out that we want to drop probably sometime end of July or August.

THE BEAT DROP 🥁

A pulse of the culture.

If you’re reading this it’s another weekend at the crib, and I am still over here deciphering Clipse’s Let God Sort Em Out track “So Be It.” Nevertheless, this week has been eventful. My favorite part was Megan Thee Stallion making an appearance on Love Island and Kai Cenat getting on stream with LeBron James.

THIS WEEK’S TRACKLIST 💿

The most important news items of the week.

1. Clipse dropped “So Be It” with some war of words for Travis Scott and Pusha T explained why.

2. Megan Thee Stallion entered the villa on Love Island USA looking like a bombshell in her Hot Girl Swim collection and hosted a twerk contest. Everybody say, THANK YOU MEGAN.

3. Kai Cenat got on stream with the goat LeBron James and broke down in tears.

4. Drake reportedly loss a whopping $8M on a sports bet. Seemingly, a trend.

5. On Juneteenth, Rick Ross got a street named after him in Clarksdale, Mississippi.

6. Jim Jones claimed that he has more hits than Nas, therefore more relevant.

7. In a $20M lawsuit, Fat Joe was accused of putting a bounty on 50 Cent’s head. 50 responded and essentially called the suit a “stick up.”

8. That Mexican OT declared that he has the right to say the n-word because…wtf are you going to do about it? Newsflash: he does not.

9. Joey Badass and Serayah welcomed their new child. Congratulations to the new parents!

10. Rihanna was awarded the Icon Award at the Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards.

BARS OF THE WEEK 🎤

Notable quotes or lyrics that made waves.

“You cried in front of me, you died in front of me / Calabasas took your bitch and your pride in front of me.” — Pusha T on “So Be It” airing out Travis Scott.

“HE’S A WHORE.” — King Push further expanding on his issues with La Flame via GQ.

“It’s unnecessary” — Bad Bunny on why he doesn’t need to activate a tour in the United States.

“Sleeping and dreaming talking to the rocket / He told me go up, I told him that I got em.” — Offset on “Bodies” paying homage to Takeoff.

“I’m here to feed the streets, bon appetit!” — Lola Brooke on her latest release “Bon Appétit”

“I keep hearing these voices / Buy more jewelry, buy five new Porsches” — Gucci Mane on “Voices.”

CHART TOPPERS 📈

Notable top-performing rap and R&B tracks on streaming platforms and charts.

Lil Tecca’s DOPAMINE is expected to debut at #3 on the Billboard 200, SZA’s SOS at #4, Kendrick Lamar at #8, Drake and PND’s $$$4U at #10 and Lil Wayne’s Tha Carter VI at #15.

On YouTube, seven songs off Tha Carter VI impacted the US Top Songs, including “Hip Hop” featuring Big X Tha Plug.

SOUND WATCH 🎧

Upcoming releases and recent drops worth noting.

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“So Be It” is the latest release from Clipse which takes aim at Travis Scott — although it’s not available on streaming, there is a music video for it.

Cardi B climbed out of retirement and delivered her new single “Outside.”

At the same time, Offset dropped “Bodies” featuring JID.

midwxst shared his album called ARCHANGEL.

Wale released a goodie called “Where To Start.”

Roddy Ricch released “Underdog,” off the F1 Soundtrack.

Rapsody dropped a two-piece called MadRaps with Madlib, exclusively on her website. (Now, that’s what I’m talking ‘bout!)

The Alchemist and Erykah Badu shared the innovative “Next To You.”

Memphis Bleek offered a new project in the form of Apt 3D, 11 songs deep.

AzSwaye released the follow-up to “RAP CAP” with the jazzy “GET OFF.”

Pluto released her Both Ways EP featuring the summer hit “Whim Whammie” with YK Niece.

Amaarae shared the cover art for her new album BLACK STAR, which will be out August 8.

Lola Brooke released her song "Bon Appétit."

JayDon offered his new single "Boujee Baby," featuring Zeddy Will.

Halle Bailey offered her surprise release “Braveface.”

Che Noir delivered The Color Chocolate 2.

Central Cee tapped in with Sexyy Red for the vibey "Guilt Trippin."

Rob49 offered a remix to "WTHelly" with G Herbo.

Samara Cyn shared the backroads EP.

Dave East linked with Young Chris for Fine Dining.

YTB Fatt delivered Da Foxprint project with a feature from Moneybagg Yo.

Lazer Dim 700 came through with “Kill Switch.”

Hardrock tapped in with “Biggest Soldier.”

Gucci Mane delivered a banger with “Voices.”

Anycia and Quavo tapped in for “Put Up.”

Kevin Gates dropped off “Stutter.”

Pinkpanthress shared a new one called “Close to you.”

Fred Again, Skepta and PlaqueBoyMax shared the danceable “Victory Lap.”

Terrace Martin and Kenyon Dixon linked for the collaborative album Come As You Are.

Teddy Swims released “All Gas No Brakes” featuring BigXthaPlug.

The Kid LAROI shared his moody single “HOW DOES IT FEEL.”

ScarLip unleashed her EP Scarred B4 Fame and it contains a Lil Wayne feature.

BEHIND THE MUSIC 🎵

Industry news.

Create Music Group formed a new joint venture with The Neptune’s Star Trak Entertainment.

STEAK REPORT 🥩

Feuds, diss tracks and social media spats.

Pusha T called out Travis Scott on “So Be It” for being a hoe. And if you know Push, he absolutely DEPLORES hoetivities. Apparently, Travis interrupted a session Clipse and Pharrell were having to play some music — including “Meltdown” — sans Drake verse. Mind you, the song alluded to melting down Pharrell’s jewelry. King Push aint like that! So, what’s next? Bun B said we should expect a response from Trav. He better make it worth our Spotify subscriptions.

Karrahbooo dropped her short-lived beef with Lil Yachty. She said that she can’t deal with the negative energy — and honestly I felt that.

Leave a comment

TOUR BUS 🚌

Concert and festival announcements, tour updates and live performance highlights.

Kendrick Lamar’s “Grand National Tour” wrapped in the states this week and is set to continue overseas, July through early August.

Molly Santana announced the July kick off of her Molly and Her Week of Wonders Tour.

Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter Tour” concluded its six-night run at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, welcoming over 275k fans and grossing over $61M. Next stop? Paris for three nights and then back to the states to perform in her hometown of Houston, followed by DC, Atlanta and then wrapping up in Las Vegas by the end of July.

FREESTYLE 🎙️

Memes and viral moments.

Lucky I ain't TMZ it, so be it, so be it.

RAP HILL ⚖️

Legal matters affecting the music industry.

A judge ruled that production duo Kemika1956 can proceed to sue Cardi B over allegedly stealing the beat for her 2024 song “Enough (Miami).” The suit is for a whopping $50M.

Polo G settled with Dutch booking agency J. Noah B.V. over his canceled 2023 European tour.

OUTSIDE 📸

Sightings and appearances.

Lil Uzi Vert popped out at Fanatics Fest taking place the 40/40 Club with blonde plats and DJ Khaled popped out for a Raising Canes food thingy. JAY-Z, OG Juan Perez, and Desiree were there too along with other attendees such as Meek Mill, Quavo, Kai Cenat and more.

Lizzo and SZA were spotted in the studio and teased a snippet of a new song. Maybe we’ll get it, maybe we won’t.

Pluto was spotted at the studio with Young Thug. And no, not that Pluto.

The Hollywood Unlocked Award ceremony took place this weekend hosted by Tiffany Haddish and celebrated honorees Don Lemon, Fantasia, Keke Palmer, Lemuel Plummer, Niecy Nash Betts, Vic Mensa and Warren G for their contributions to the culture.

BIRTHDAYS 🎉

Celebrating artists and industry figures born this week.

Kendrick Lamar, Gunna, Takeoff, Ice Cube, Tupac Shakur, Tripple Redd, Lionel Richie, Julio Foolio

OUTRO ✌🏽

A final thought.

At first I was like why is everyone (Clipse, Pusha T, Malice, etc.) SO SERIOUS? Then I ran back “MELTDOWN” off Travis Scott’s Utopia and I was like “Oooh.” I knew there was a slight jab towards Push on there but the song is so good, I kind of forgot. I mean it starts off tauntingly with “T time, T time.” BUT…to play this for Clipse and Pharrell without Drake on it was hella messy. The view through Pusha T’s lens has made this a very intriguing, ongoing rap war. Should Trav respond? Probably not. But the boys will be boys and I’m tuned in.

xx

THE BEAT DROP 🥁

A pulse of the culture.

It’s another Sunday at the crib and I’m just counting how many balls I have with my name on it. Shout out to DDG for the new lingo. Nevertheless, this week has been full of movement: Megan Thee Stallion took over Dream Con in her hometown of Houston and SZA won big at the American Music Awards.

THIS WEEK’S TRACKLIST 💿

The most important news items of the week.

1. While at Streamer University, DDG stamped the phrase, “that’s my ball,” as a new way to claim your boo and created some merch for it. His brother also got into a tussle at Dream Con over a heckler disrespecting DDG’s name.

2. Also at Dream Con, Megan Thee Stallion hilariously played The Sims 4 with Quen Blackwell and later announced the she has an anime series otw with Amazon. She also debuted her swim line at Miami Swim Week.

3. SZA swept at the American Music Awards, winning many awards including Favorite Female R&B Artist. She’s certainly mine!

4. Tyler, the Creator was announced as the face of Bottega Veneta.

5. NBA Youngboy was pardoned by President Trump. So was Larry Hoover.

6. Offset asked Cardi B for spousal support in their divorce and she isn’t having it.

7. Video surfaced of Tory Lanez getting stabbed 14 times and his team published a website with “suppressed evidence” to prove his innocence. Megan’s lawyer called it “desperate.”

8. Wu-Tang Clan kicked off their farewell tour and is giving fans a chance to be part of their Wu-Tang Forever Time Capsule.

9. Rihanna’s father, Ronald Fenty, passed away. He was 70.

BARS OF THE WEEK 🎤

Notable quotes or lyrics that made waves.

“That’s my ball.” — DDG any chance he could get, while at Streamer U.

“You rappers all beneath me, beloved like the Bee Gees / International flights, connect me to the wi-fi / The only way you reach me HUH!” — King Push on “Ace Trumpets” pronouncing wi-fi like the French.

“Got me thinkin' really deep, like, What this street shit really 'bout? / Like, If I slide for these niggas, will they really come get me out? — Meek Mill getting real contemplative on “Survivor’s Guilt.”

“The whole system been a scam from the beginning.” — Fat Joe on “Joe and Jada,” describing the music industry.

“I’m going to become a mogul. I’m working towards becoming an executive producer as big as David Geffen.” — Gunna’s producer Turbo on his future in an exclusive interview with MBW.

CHART TOPPERS 📈

Notable top-performing rap and R&B tracks on streaming platforms and charts.

Drake broke the record for the most Diamond certified songs in RIAA history, giving a whole new meaning to “Diamonds Dancing.”

SZA’s SOS is still holding it down on the Billboard 200 at No. 2.

SOUND WATCH 🎧

Upcoming releases and recent drops worth noting.

Subscribe now

Pusha T and No Malice are back as Clipse with Pharrell on the beat for the banger “Ace Trumpets.” That’s a reference to JAY-Z’s big body Armand de Brignac Ace of Spades Champagne bottles btw. It’s expected to live on their forthcoming project, Let God Sort Em Out.

Honey Bxby finally delivered her Raw Honey EP and it includes Lola Brooke on the remix for “LEFT EYE.” Check out my interview with her here.

Molly Santana released her rager-riffic sophomore album, Molly and Her Week of Wonders.

Pluto dropped the official remix to her hit single, “WHIM WHAMIEE” and it got Sexyy Red on it.

Benji Blue Bills and BNYX® Out The Blue tape is out.

Lil Tecca’s “Owa Owa” gained some major traction upon its release.

Justine Skye tapped in with Kaytranada to ring in a new era with “Oh Lala.”

Leon Thomas unveiled HEEL, the deluxe edition of MUTT.

EBK Jaaybo offered his Don’t Trust Me project.

Journey Montana released the music video for “Hollywood.”

OVO’s Roy Woods offered the music video for “You.”

Baby Money connected with G.T. for the "Armageddon” music video.

R&B Pop star  Chxrry  shared her new single, “Main Character.”

Baby Jungle dropped “ASF” featuring T Royal.

BBYKOBE teamed up with G.T. to pay tribute to their city on “RIP HUTCH.”

Nija delivered a dreamy ballad called "Heaven.”

Lettuce teamed up with Styles P of The Lox for the exclusive release of “Better Than Money” on EVEN.

Star Bandz dropped “Like This.”

Big Moochie Grape shared EAT OR GET ATE 2 (DELUXE).

Gashi and G-Eazy collabed on a new one called “RINGS.”

Gelo dropped “Booted Up.”

Meek Mill and G Herbo connected for the introspective “Survivor’s Guilt.”

Smino and Samara Cyn can be heard on the jazzy “Brand New Teeth.”

Mavi and Earl Sweatshirt referenced Apple TV’s show "Severance” for their “Landgrab” music video.

Lucki delivered a dope visual for “Diamond Stitching.”

BEHIND THE MUSIC 🎵

Industry news.

Karol G’s Con Cora Foundation announced the third edition of Women Ink initiative, expanding its reach to Mexico City for the first time.

You can now pay for Spotify Premium outside of Apple Pay — the streaming giant confirmed that the move has increased subs.

STEAK REPORT 🥩

Feuds, diss tracks and social media spats.

Ab-Soul responded to Joey Badass going against 100 West Coast niggas. BUT, it was a little bit too late. The people have moved on. He also responded to DJ Akademiks saying that he’d put him in the grave and bringing up the late great Nipsey Hussle’s name into it.

Leave a comment

TOUR BUS 🚌

Concert and festival announcements, tour updates and live performance highlights.

Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter Tour” is now one of the highest grossing shows on a single run and of all-time with over $70,000,000 grossed across five shows in New Jersey. Next stop? London for six nights.

The first day of the Roots Picnic in Philly was a complete “disaster,” according to concertgoers. Maxwell headlined on Saturday (May 31) along with Latto, Glorilla, Tems, and more.

FREESTYLE 🎙️

Memes and viral moments.

AIN’T THAT MY BALL?

RAP HILL ⚖️

Legal matters affecting the music industry.

In the matter of Drake’s ongoing defamation suit against UMG, his legal team filed a 35-page answer to the label’s motion to dismiss. His team is obviously asking the court to deny UMG’s request. They also touch on those “rap scholars” who filed an amicus brief — something Judge Vargas has confirmed that she will take into consideration when making her decision.

Read Drake’s opposition to UMG’s motion to dismiss here, courtesy of OVO Docket.

TRENDSETTERS 🔥

Updates on key figures who are driving the culture.

Wasserman Music announced the hiring of two new executives to further the growth of its Hip-Hop/R&B division. Jazmyn Griffin joined as a New York-based Director on the company's Global Festivals team, and Tessie Lammle joined as Los Angeles-based Director and agent.

OUTSIDE 📸

Sightings and appearances.

Nipsey Hussle’s Marathon Burgers opened up another location in Venice.

Cardi B and her new bae Steffon Diggs were spotted getting litty on yacht with some babes.

BIRTHDAYS 🎉

Celebrating artists and industry figures born this week.

André 3000, Jadakiss, Big L, Cee-Lo Green, DMC of Run DMC, Chubb Rock, Waka Flocka

OUTRO ✌🏽

A final thought.

“My ball” is so much better than “fine shyt.” Thank you DDG for introducing a new phrase into the cultural lexicon. There have been so many new words and phrases introduced lately as a way to proclaim your love for someone else and this by far has to top all of them.

Anyway, this week’s news cycle has been insane. It’s a lot going on ya’ll. Like Trump pardoning everybody and they mama and A$AP Rocky’s Twitter account getting hacked — but the hackers couldn’t leak a track list, audio, nothing for DON’T BE DUMB? Pshhhhh. Need that!

I also wanna say Joe and Jada’s podcast is the most entertaining thing we have right now. Ya’ll really gotta tune in. They really be having me weak af. 😭

xx

THE BEAT DROP 🥁

A pulse of the culture.

If you’re reading this it’s another weekend at the crib and I know I am not the only one locked in to Kai Cenat’s Streamer University, right? Some students made a theme song for it and everything. Some other things that happened this week? Drake revealed the resurrection of OVO Fest and fans learned that PlaqueBoyMax is signed.

THIS WEEK’S TRACKLIST 💿

The most important news items of the week.

1. Kai Cenat launched Streamer University with DDG, Dashae, Brooklyn Frost, Funny Mike, India Love, Duke Dennis and more in attendance.

2. Drake announced the return of OVO Fest and teased ICEMAN as a possible summer release. Another house EP courtesy of Gordo is also expected.

3. PlaqueBoyMax announced his singing to Capitol Records’ Field Trip Recordings with the ATLANTA EP.

4. Megan Thee Stallion’s attorney dropped a Google Slide addressing fan conspiracies.

5. Young Thug called Kid Cudi a rat after he testified in the Diddy trial about his car being blown up. Diddy’s lawyer, Brian Steele, is pushing for a mistrial.

6. Skilla Baby was shot while sitting inside a black SUV on Detroit’s 8-Mile. He performed a few days later with 42 Dugg.

7. Hip Hop journalist and filmmaker Sacha Jenkins passed away. He was 54.

8. SZA saved a kid from whippets in exchange for a photo.

9. Rod Wave was arrested on aggravated assault charges.

10. Lil Durk was accused of witness intimidation.

BARS OF THE WEEK 🎤

Notable quotes or lyrics that made waves.

“They hate on Streamer U but we already won.” — Skrill Won on the “Streamer U” anthem.

“Hit the bus!” — Kai Cenat trying to get his students together they snuck out of Streamer University to DDG’s party.

“June where you been? Nigga I been mobbin.” — Larry June on “Black Man.”

“Bitch it’s summer we outside! Put some Yitty on yo titties! (WE OUTSIDE HOE!” 🗣️ — Lizzo popping it on her “Whim Whamiee” freestyle.

“I ain't get no sleep in a week I seen more banks than feet / They keep asking who the biggest out niggas should've knew it's me.” — Rob49 on “Blousin.”

CHART TOPPERS 📈

Notable top-performing rap and R&B tracks on streaming platforms and charts.

DDG broke 200k+ views on Twitch while at Streamer University.

Young Miko’s "WASSUP" entered the Billboard Global 200 chart.

SZA’s SOS rose to No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and Kendrick Lamar landed at No. 5.

SOUND WATCH 🎧

Upcoming releases and recent drops worth noting.

Subscribe now

Rob49 unleashed his album Let Me Fly which features his hit song “WTHelly” and “So Sexyy” with Sexyy Red and YTB Fatt.

Floridia upstart Hurricane Wisdom delivered the music video for “Anyways.”

AG Club is back at it “Again.”

YFN Lucci tapped in with the first single since his release, JAN. 31st (my truth).

Lizzo dropped a freestyle to “Whim Whamiee” and it’s fuego.

Bossman Dlow came through with the deluxe version of Dlow Curry.

Baby Drill delivered his project Cry For Help.

EBK Jaaybo released the bussing “Exposing Me” with VonOff1700

LeoStayTrill shared his Home Alone project.

mgk released the melodic “cliché.”

Burna Boy and Travis Scott came together for “Tatata”

NBA Youngboy dropped the music video for his introspective cut “Finest.”

YG made his return with “Hollywood” featuring Shoreline Mafia.

42 Dugg declared “We Not Done” with his latest release.

Larry June and Cardo linked up for “Black Man.”

BEHIND THE MUSIC 🎵

Industry news.

TikTok partnered with SoundCloud so fans can add music directly to their SoundCloud playlists, directly from the app. Huge.

STEAK REPORT 🥩

Feuds, diss tracks and social media spats.

Joey Badass vs. 100 west coast niggas is over and the general consensus is that Joey won.

It doesn’t look like YK Niece and Pluto will be making amends anytime soon. 💔Pluto recorded the music video for the “Whim Whamiee” remix with Sexyy Red and Niece has doubled down, saying the two will not be doing any shows together at all. Furthermore, the verse with Latto will more than likely not be released since she wanted both of them on it. And apparently Niece was supposed to be on “Pull Yo Skirt Up.”

Megan Thee Stallion unfollowed Glorilla after the CMG rapper reposted a meme to her IG story that had a Tory Lanez song attached it to. The assumption made was that Glo was showing support for Tory. Shortly after, the two began re-following each other. Glo explained that it was an “innocent repost.” Fans aren’t buying it though. Both ladies were quick to archive birthday posts dedicated to each other and Meg seemed to have cropped Glo out of a picture of them sitting with Beyoncé. Some have attributed a tweet that Glo quoted of her own from April that said “Mfs just gone have to be mad idgaf,” with, “Exactly.”

Leave a comment

THE BLUEPRINT 📘

A deep dive of trending topics, artist profiles and music analysis.

TOUR BUS 🚌

Concert and festival announcements, tour updates and live performance highlights.

Fans can expect to catch Megan Thee Stallion at Dream Con in her hometown of Houston. She will host a panel and cosplay contest.

Key Glock kicked off his 2025 "GLOCKAVELI Tour presented by SiriusXM’s Hip-Hop Nation" in Oklahoma.

Young Miko took over Spain with a sold-out show at Barcelona’s iconic Sant Jordi Club with special guest Bad Gyal.

Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter Tour” landed in New Jersey this week and will stay through May 29.

Halsey kicked off her “For My Last Trick Tour” with a sold out show in Concord, Ca.

Wiz Khalifa announced the “Good Vibes Only Tour: Smoker’s Edition,” which is set to kick off July 29 in Austin, Tx.

FREESTYLE 🎙️

Memes and viral moments.

“Before you lie, tell the truth” — Dean Cenat

RAP HILL ⚖️

Legal matters affecting the music industry.

In the matter of Drake vs. UMG, Judge Vargas approved and signed the protective order requested by attorneys for Drake and UMG. This means that some of the materials exchanged during discovery will not be made public in order to protect business dealings on both sides.

In the case of Emilio Garcia v. Roc Nation LLC, et al., the lawsuit against Megan Thee Stallion by her former cameraman, depositions can now take place. Garcia’s team wanted Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez, CFO Sean Mulvehill and Megan to be deposed. Meg’s team pushed back, citing the apex doctrine, to have Perez and Mulvehill not be deposed. On May 22, the judge granted Garcia’s team application to depose Mulvehill for four hours and granted the defense’s protective order to prevent Perez from being deposed — for now. Meg is also expected to talk.

Lastly, Lil Wayne The Carter 3 producer Deezle (“Lollipop,” “Mrs. Officer,” etc.) filed a $3 million dollar lawsuit against Universal Music Group over unpaid royalties.

TRENDSETTERS 🔥

Updates on key figures who are driving the culture.

Cardi B is expected to be honored by ASCAP with the Voice of the Culture Award for her influence on hip hop and culture.

OUTSIDE 📸

Sightings and appearances.

Justin Bieber joined SZA for a performance of “Snooze.”

Mariah the Scientist was spotted at Houston’s Sakai.

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky showed out for Cannes Film Festival in support of his forthcoming film “Highest 2 Lowest” with Denzel Washington. Rocky also teased some new music.

BIRTHDAYS 🎉

Celebrating artists and industry figures born this week.

Daz Dillinger, The Notorious B.I.G., Busta Rhymes, Yo Gotti

OUTRO ✌🏽

A final thought.

Wowww. It’s the final day of Streamer University and DDG aka Professor Moo got expelled for sending students to a frat party. The crazy part is everyone snitched on him while Headmaster Dean Kai Cenat went from room-to-room trying to figure it out. While that was going on, Agent had a black market shop selling [redacted]. It was pure chaos. When Kai got to DDG’s room, he told him to blank the screen and then beat him up something nasty. SMH. Wendy, Deshae, Funny Mike, Rakai and more all sang like a bird.

For three days, huge streamers such as Duke Dennis, Dontai, CookinWitKya, India Love and Brooklyn Frost from smaller streamers such as Caiuwus and the janit, Skrill Won, came together to create content and learn how to elevate their streaming game.

Too bad they couldn’t follow the rules. 💔 Nevertheless, this was the most entertained I have ever been in my life. I am looking forward to the next class of Streamer University.

xx

As an independent journalist, thank you SO much for supporting my work. Please consider adding a lil something, something to my tip jar here if you feel compelled!

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This May, Jae Stephens has been on FLO’s “Access All Areas Tour” and her final show opening for the British R&B girl group was on Thursday (May 22) at the Hollywood Palladium. Of course I had to be there. I arrived right before she hit the stage, which was promptly at 8:30 p.m. The crowd was heavy and the fans were ready. Opening with her SELLOUT cut “WET,” Jae went through the EP’s tracks “Girls Don’t Cheat,” “PDA,” and after being bullied by the JaeBaes, gave in to the demands and performed the iconic “Body Favors.” She also taught the crowd the words to her newly released single “That’s My Baby” and performed “SMH” aka “So Many Hoes” — the mic was ON. Confirmed.

Shortly after that, I was summoned back stage by her manager who escorted me to her room where Jae greeted me with a hug and apology for being “too sweaty.” Honestly, it was fine. There was one problem though. My phone was on its death bed and it needed a charge. Thankfully Jae came through and offered up her charger for my poor iPhone.

As I sat down next to her, she was staring into the abyss very intently as if something was on her mind. Suddenly, she offered me the thickest cookies I had ever seen in my entire life. I suspected they were scones and she assured me that they were indeed cookies. I grabbed one, took a bite and they were indeed very thick, but also tasty. The tastiest I have ever had. So tasty, I am still day dreaming about those cookies as I type this.

Then it was time to get what I came for — five minutes with Jae. Read our short and sweet conversation below.

Alright Jae. Let's do this. First question I have — I want to talk about beyoncebeytwice.

Jae Stephens: *uncontrollable laughter*

Did I say it right?

JS: I'm sorry, I spit on your cookies.

Now you have to give me another one.

JS: You can have as many as you want. I can't eat that shit. It's so thicc.

Yes, what about her?

Did I say it right?

JS: You can honestly say it however you want to say it. I let everyone just speak from the heart when they pronounce it. What did you say?

Beyoncé Bey Twice.

JS: That's how I say it. I've heard Bey Once Bey Twice — which doesn't make any sense.

Bey Once, Bey Twice?

JS: I've heard Bay Once Bay Twice — which I'm just like…her name is Beyoncé. You could at least get that part right.

Ooh, BEY ONCE, BEY TWICE?? That's clever.

JS: Wait…what do you mean? You didn't know?

I just was saying Beyonce Bey Twice. It's like you're the second Beyonce. The second coming.

JS: There you go. Bey Once Bey Twice. That's where it all begins for me.

Okay…So, obviously, Beyoncé knows who you are.

JS: Yes, she checks up on me.

Clearly. So, what song of yours do you feel like is her favorite ?

JS: Of mine? Wow, that's a crazy question that I've never thought of in my life. Okay, let me enter Delulu Land a little bit.

*taps her head and enters Delulu Land real quick*

JS: I feel like Beyoncé would really appreciate “Kiss U Back.” I feel like “Kiss U Back” is a classic. It's got vocals, it's got a little sex appeal, it's got a nice groove to it. It reminds me of something that could have been on 4.

Ooh, that's my favorite Beyoncé album.

JS: She's up there. She's up there for me.

That's THEE Beyoncé album.

JS: I feel like she would like that one because she appreciates a classic record and to me, that feels like one of my more classic sounding records.

What's an inside joke that only be you and the JaeBaes would get?

JS: “The Raisin Song.”

“The Raisin Song” — Why do you make that face?

JS: 'Cause I hate it. And I don't ever…I don't even want to talk about it right now.

You’d never perform it live?

JS: No. I don't even remember how it goes. They remember how it goes more than I do and they keep bringing it up. I can never be free. I'm gonna let them have that inside joke. I personally am moving on.

What emoji would you say describes your vibe?

JS: My vibe? The one with your tongue out. 😜

What's next for you? This is the last stop [of the tour].

JS: OMG, it is the last. It's very bittersweet, but it's not gonna be chill for long, 'cause I'm shooting a music video next week for the next single and then the next project is coming out. Then we might be doing some more shows to wrap up the year.

I'm really excited. We're hitting the ground running with this next project. I'm excited for everyone to hear it.

What music video? “That's My Baby”?

JS: Well, no. This song isn't out yet. We got one more in the vault.

I'm assuming with the songs you've been releasing, there's a project coming out soon.

JS: Yes, there's absolutely a project. So “SMH,” “That's My Baby,” and this next one that we're shooting my video for — which I haven't even teased, which is so unlike me. You know, I talk too much on the internet.

No one's heard it. So that'll be like. I'm shooting a video for it and they're all going to be on this next project. I'm excited for everyone to hear.

If you prefer the visual to this interaction, watch the interview in full below.

THE BEAT DROP

A pulse of the culture.

If you’re reading this it’s another Saturday in Hip Hop and this week, things got real lyrical between Joey Badass and TDE upstart, Ray Vaughn. Diddy’s RICO trial is underway and it’s quite disturbing. And after Tory Lanez was stabbed 14 times in prison, his legal team revealed that they have evidence he didn’t shoot Megan Thee Stallion.

THIS WEEK’S TRACKLIST

The most important news items of the week.

1. Joey Badass and Ray Vaughn went bar for bar.

2. Diddy’s trial started and it was A LOT. Cassie testified for four days and revealed all about their “freak offs.” Danity Kane’s Dawn Richard testified as well.

3. Tory Lanez’s legal team claimed they have evidence that Kelsey is the one who shot Megan Thee Stallion.

4. Then, Chris Brown shouted out “Free Tory” and later found himself in a Manchester jail cell from a 2023 incident. His bond was denied.

5. Halle Bailey was granted a temporary restraining order against DDG and full custody of their son Halo, alleging domestic violence. A hearing is set for June.

6. Four scholars decried Drake’s defamation suit against UMG in an amicus brief to Judge Vargas.

7. A$AP Rocky released a Met Gala AWGE collection.

8. Rockstar Games’ introduced an in-game rap label called Only Raw Records for GTA 6.

9. Quavo recorded two new songs on ‘In The Booth’ with PlaqueBoyMax.

10. United Justice Coalition and Roc Nation announced the speakers for their 2025 Justice Summit taking place May 30. Get tickets here.

BARS OF THE WEEK

Notable quotes or lyrics that made waves.

“No fly zone, say oh, is that right? / I ain't gotta book no flight, I'm still gon' pack 'Lyt” — Joey Badass on Red Bull’s Spiral Freestyle aimed at the West Coast.

“I'm Snoop Dogg kickin' over his lil' fort / Bitch, you washed, you ain't carryin' no torch / You let Ice Spice turn into the king of New York.” — Ray Vaughn responding to Joey on “Hoe Era.”

"Signed for five years, had your biggest moment from me / Can’t nobody name a single song you ever released.” 💔 — Joey biting back at Ray on “The Finals.”

"I salute you Kenny but I know you well aware / You lookin' for some competition? Then just know that I'll be right here.” — Joey talking to Dot on “The Finals.”

CHART TOPPERS

Notable top-performing rap and R&B tracks on streaming platforms and charts.

Mariah The Scientist’s “Burning Blue” entered the Hot 100 at #25.

NBA Youngboy returned with the video-assisted dual single "Where I Been / Shot Callin," which debuted at #4 on YouTube’s US Top Songs.

Pluto and YK Niece’s viral hit "Whim Whamiee," hit #21 on YouTube’s US Top Songs.

SOUND WATCH

Upcoming releases and recent drops worth noting.

Subscribe now

Ray Vaughn unleashed a diss track aimed at Joey Badass and called it “Hoe Era.”

AZ Chike delivered the music video for his banger “Game Time.”

Giveon offered a visual for “Rather Be.”

YKNiece dropped some “Pressure.”

And Pluto released her solo track “Pull Yo Skirt Up.”

Hurricane Wisdom created a syrupy love song in form of “Need Me.”

Rico Nasty dropped her LETHAL EP.

Latto got in her bag with “Somebody.”

untiljapan released his first single of 2025 called “PYRAMIDZ.”

2 Chainz and Lil Yachty tapped in with “Sista Wives.”

J.I.D released the official music video for "WRK."

Blxst returned with a short stack of unreleased songs.

Reason dropped a Joey diss track in honor of his old label called “The Dead Apple.”

TiaCorine and Kenny Beats teamed up for “IRONIC.”

Bossman Dlow and Gucci Mane linked up for “Hit.”

Mozzy performed "SEVEN 2'S” for Vevo Ctrl.

Farrah Fawx shared her electrifying project, But Did You Die.

Little Simz offered the music video for “Young.”

Chuckyy and Lucki linked up for “Hotseat.”

BKTHERULA and Ty Dolla Sign shared “BBGIRLGOSLOW.”

Jessie J came through with “Living My Best Life.”

Lil Poppa released the video for “Start Trippin (Shawty Fine).”

Boldy James, Antt Beatz and Baby Money connected for "Off The Richter.”

Pink Siifu shared an “Alive & Direct’!” visual.

Savannah Ré delivered her Formed EP.

DC The Don officially dropped “GET NAKED” after performing it at Rolling Loud.

BEHIND THE MUSIC

Industry news.

United Masters’ announced Real Time Royalties so indie artists can get paid ASAP.

Meanwhile, YouTube expanded its commitment to indie artists and that includes Anycia.

UMG and Apple Music announced a mood playlist called Sound Therapy.

Ryan Murphy announced All’s Fair starring Kim Kardashian, Teyana Taylor, Sarah Paulson, Niecy Nash, and Glenn Close.

Megan Thee Stallion announced her Hot Girl Swimwear with WalMart and Otaku Hottie Airbnb collab.

STEAK REPORT

Feuds, diss tracks and social media spats.

Ray Vaughn was the main one to respond to Joey Badass’ “The Ruler’s Back” diss at the West Coast with “Crashout Heritage,” earlier this year. Fast forward to May, and Joey Badass has appeared in a freestyle cypher alongside Big Sean and TDE’s Ab-Soul, while taking shots at the West…again. And he mentioned Daylyt A LOT. All Daylyt has done so far is show love to Capital Steez. Ray continued to press the issue with “Hoe Era” and Joey followed-up with “The Finals,” challenging the final boss — Kendrick Lamar. You can listen to it at TDEast.com.

YK Niece and Pluto are back at it. Yup. Niece revealed that apparently Pluto didn’t want to step on stage with her for their viral hit “Whim Whammiee” and that Pluto originally sent the song to Latto without her verse on it. Latto wanted both. Meanwhile, Pluto keeps saying she wrote Niece’s verse. Both ladies dropped a song this week though. YK Niece came with “Pressure” and Pluto with “Pull Yo Skirt Up.”

Leave a comment

THE BLUEPRINT

A deep dive of trending topics, artist profiles and music analysis.

TOUR BUS

Concert and festival announcements, tour updates and live performance highlights.

LiveNation launched its $30 Ticket to Summer promo with opps to see $uicideboy$ and Nelly for the low.

Naomi Sharon will travel for seven dates on “The Only Love We Know Tour.”

JMSN will be doing a few shows in LA and NYC – no phones please!

Kali Uchis announced "The Sincerely, Tour" and will be stopping in 25 cities.

Jae Stephens shared her tour rider while on the road with FLO. Get tickets here.

Isaiah Falls is set to take the stage for his 17-stop “LVRS Paradise Tour.”

FREESTYLE

Memes and viral moments.

“It's too bad, nigga, you should have been signed to me. Somebody tell Top we bout to start TDEast.” — Joey Badass on “The Finals"

TRENDSETTERS

Updates on key figures who are driving the culture.

UMG appointed Matt Ellis as CFO.

Janet Jackson is set to receive the ICON Award at this years’ AMAs.

Halle Bailey, Lala Milan, and more were recognized at the Mom Honors in Culver City.

OUTSIDE

Sightings and appearances.

Usher gave a commencement speech at Emory and received an honorary degree.

Meanwhile, the Atlanta Braves are expected to pay tribute to Usher with a Bobblehead gate giveaway when the team takes on the Mets June 18.

André 3000 received an honorary doctorate from Berklee College of Music and gave a commencement speech to the graduating class of 2025.

Cardi B and Stefon Diggs got cozy at a Knicks game.

A beautiful Young Thug and Mariah the Scientist snippet surfaced.

BIRTHDAYS

Celebrating artists and industry figures born this week.

Pusha T, Isaiah Rashad, Ace Hood, Janet Jackson, James Fauntleroy, Ralph Tresvant

OUTRO

A final thought.

Joey Badass versus 100 West Coast niggas. I’m super into it. This is the kind of lyrical joust I am into. The kind of rap tussle that elevates the culture into a higher realm. So far, the 100 West Coast niggas is mainly TDE and it’s safe to say Joey is holding down the fort. But, is Daylyt just gonna sit back and post memes? Will the final boss man Kenny respond to Joey’s pleas? We’ll have to wait and see. Mind you, Kenny was recently seen at the studio in NYC’s West Village although he’s on a sold-out tour with SZA. Honestly, I hope he does. Let’s redirect the energy into something worthy.

xx

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