MF DOOM's Wife Reveals Cause of Death
Rapper MF Doom’s wife, Jasmine Dumile, reveals the cause of his death and raised concerns about her husband's final days in hospital care. We discuss it here!
By: Omar Cook
According to a report by LeedsLive on Tuesday, June 4, MF DOOM's wife raised concerns about her husband's final days during an inquest held in Leeds, U.K., where the renowned rapper lived before his passing. Jasmine Dumile questioned the quality of care provided by the medical staff at St James's University Hospital, expressing doubts about whether they had adequately attended to her husband's needs. Additionally, the official cause of DOOM's death was disclosed during the hearing, revealing that he suffered from angioedema, a rare reaction to prescribed ACE inhibitors, which resulted in severe swelling of his tongue, throat, and lips.
During the inquest, Jasmine Dumile revealed that MF DOOM, prior to his passing, appeared to be in good health but was dealing with various health issues, including kidney disease. Following the administration of two doses of a new blood pressure medication, he sought medical attention at an emergency room due to breathing difficulties.
Jasmine further described the hospital room where he was admitted as inadequate, consisting of only a bed and an old metal desk. “I don’t want to say it was an old storage room,” she said to the inquest, but “it wasn’t set up.” Medical professionals who testified in the courtroom stated that the room MF DOOM was assigned to was one of several connected to the emergency department. His passing occurred during the second wave of COVID-19 fatalities in the United Kingdom, but it remains uncertain whether the shortage of beds had any impact on his treatment.
Following MF DOOM's death, the hospital trust conducted a thorough investigation. As a result of the investigation, the trust recommended updates to the hospital's protocols for managing patients with angioedema, the condition that contributed to DOOM's passing. The inquest into his death is currently ongoing.
In a statement following his passing, Dumille said “Thank you for showing how not to be afraid to love and be the best person I could ever be. My world will never be the same without you,” his wife stated. “Words will never express what you and Malachi mean to me, I love both and adore you always. May THE ALL continue to bless you, our family and the planet.”
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Snoop Dogg Opened Exclusive Jack In The Box Restaurant in California
Snoop Dogg collaborates with Jack in the Box for an exclusive popup store this past weekend. We discuss it here!
Los Angeles, CA - July 22, 2019: Snoop Dogg attends The Los Angeles Premiere Of "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" held at TCL Chinese Theatre
Credit: Ovidiu Hrubaru via Shutterstock
By: Adonis Armstrong
Over the weekend, Snoop Dogg was granted his very own Jack in the Box restaurant located in Inglewood, California.
From June 29th to July 2nd, the establishment underwent a amazing transformation into "Dogg in the Box," completely revamping the iconic clown-themed restaurant. With a vibrant new paint job and adorned with captivating portraits of the renowned rapper, "Dogg in the Box" also featured creatively reimagined lyrics, such as the playful twist "Munchie was the meal that they gave me."
I gave @SnoopDogg his own Munchie Meal, now I’m giving him his own Jack in the Box.
— Jack in the Box (@JackBox) June 28, 2023
You’re welcome, Snoop. And everyone else.
Visit https://t.co/jy8xO5Zc9e to learn more.#dogginthabox pic.twitter.com/b9I6rlSFjo
The brick-and-mortar establishment underwent a captivating Snoop Dogg-inspired makeover, with eye-catching purple panels adorning the building's exterior, while the interior boasted a vibrant ambiance with magenta lights and decor. Additionally, "Dogg in the Box" showcased a fleet of Cadillacs in the parking lot, a fitting tribute to the rap mogul’s love for these iconic vehicles.
In a addition, the menu at the pop-up restaurant featured two special limited edition items, namely the "Snoopadelic Shake" and the mouthwatering "$14 Snoop Munchie Meal," both featuring Uncle Snoop's likeness. Moreover, the temporary establishment showcased an exclusive collection of nostalgic "’90s style merch," paying homage to the legacies of both Snoop Dogg and Jack in the Box.
Snoop Dogg remains a visionary mogul, consistently venturing into new avenues and making business moves that serve as an inspiration for others to follow.
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Beyoncé & Kelly Rowland Are Set To Build Housing Complexes For The Homeless in Houston
Beyoncé and Kelly are coming together to give back to their community by providing 31 new homes in the Houston midtown area which will be known as the Knowles-Rowland project. We discuss it here!
Beyonce Knowles and Kelly Rowland arriving at the 2007 BET Awards. The Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles, CA. 06-26-07
Credit: s_bukley via Shutterstock
By: Gentel Sharrie
The former group Destiny’s Child is still creating destinies. The two iconic ladies Beyoncé and Kelly are coming together to give back to their community by blessing the people of Houston with housing. They are calling it the Knowles-Rowland project. The housing project will provide 31 new homes in the Houston midtown area.
The housing project will cost around $8.4 million dollars, and the American Rescue Plan is donating $7.2 million dollars to the project. The housing project will have case managers, peer specialists, physical behavior support and more.
Right now Beyoncé is on her Renaissance tour and when she makes her way to Houston she plans to make a bigger announcement about the new housing complex her and Kelly are launching together.
Beyoncé and Kelly both started out together in the legendary singing group called Destiny’s Child which was formed in the 1990’s. The group mainly consisted of Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams with former members Farrah Franklin, LeToya Luckett, and LaTavia Roberson. They achieved great success in the late 1990s and early 2000s with hits like "Say My Name," "Survivor," and "Bootylicious." The group eventually disbanded in 2006, but the members have continued to have successful solo careers.
Beyoncé is known for her powerful vocals, captivating performances, and empowering lyrics. She has released numerous hit songs, including "Crazy in Love," "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)," and "Formation." Beyoncé has also acted in films such as Dreamgirls and The Lion King. She is considered one of the most influential and successful artists in contemporary music. Kelly Rowland has released several solo albums, including "Simply Deep" and "Here I Am," which spawned hit singles like "Dilemma" featuring Nelly and "Motivation" featuring Lil Wayne. Rowland has also ventured into acting, appearing in films and television shows such as Freddy vs. Jason, Empire and American Soul." Additionally, she has been a judge on reality TV competitions like "The X Factor" and "The Voice Australia. Beyoncé and Kelly both continue to be an influential figure in the music industry.
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Cleveland Officials to Honor Bone Thugs-N-Harmony with Street Naming Ceremony
Bone Thugs-n-Harmony to be honored with street naming ceremony in Cleveland, Ohio, celebrating their iconic hip-hop legacy. We discuss it here!
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
By: Adonis Armstrong
Earlier this week, it was announced that the iconic hip-hop group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony will be honored in their hometown of Cleveland, Ohio, through an official street naming ceremony, thereby immortalizing their legacy.
According to Cleveland News 5, city leaders have scheduled a forthcoming tribute event on August 11th from noon to 2 p.m. local time. This event aims to honor Krayzie Bone, Layzie Bone, Flesh-n-Bone, Bizzy Bone, and Wish Bone by renaming the intersection of East 99th Street and St. Clair Avenue as "Bone Thugs-N-Harmony Way." Following a petition created by the group's supporters over a year ago, officials have now reached an agreement, acknowledging that the time has come for this recognition.
One of the Cleveland residents who initiated the petition is Felicia C. Haney, the proprietor of Beach Street Publicity. “There’s nothing here that pays homage to that or to the group Bone Thugs-N-Harmony,” she explained her motivation during her conversation with the outlet behind taking action and implementing her plan. Ward 10 Councilman Anthony Hairston, along with the support of the Spread the Love Foundation, the St. Luke's Foundation, and the Famicos Foundation, is endorsing the street renaming, which will be sponsored by the city.
“Growing up on that street was crazy,” following the announcement, Krayzie Bone reminisced about it during his conversation with Rock the Bells. “We had many, many adventures on that street. We got in so much trouble. Our street was 99th and St. Clair, but we renamed our street because of the two nines — the 99 — we called it ‘Double Glock.’ I remember we shot the streetlights out on the street, so the police would no longer ride down it. At night, they would only come to the corner of the street, shine their lights down there and keep driving past. They wouldn’t come down the street. Every time they would have somebody fix the light, we’d take it right back out with either a BB gun or a little .22 rifle.”
Krazyie Bone continued by saying, “Everything really did birth who we really were in that era. We had started rapping together back in junior high school, then it carried over to high school until we got out of school. When we [got] out of school that’s when all of us were on 99th. We was definitely focused on our music around the time we was on 99th for sure.”
On August 11th, which marks Hip-Hop's official 50th birthday, everything will come full circle. After the street naming ceremony, Bone Thugs is set to deliver a performance at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on the same evening. The next day, August 12th, Bone Thugs will take the stage at Sam Miller Park for the Glenville Festival, followed by joining LL COOL J's The F.O.R.C.E. Tour at the Rocket Mortgage Field House, alongside DJ Jazzy Jeff, Z-Trip, and other notable Hip-Hop artists.
Bone Thugs continues to hold a unique distinction as one of the only groups that collaborated with iconic artists like 2Pac, The Notorious B.I.G., Eazy-E, and Big Pun during their lifetimes.
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Queen Latifah to Be Honored at Upcoming Kennedy Center Ceremony
Queen Latifah to receive prestigious honors at the upcoming Kennedy Center ceremony, celebrating her memorable contributions to the arts. We discuss it here!
Queen Latifah attends the 2017 BET Awards at Microsoft Theater on June 25th, 2017 in Los Angeles, California - USA
Credit: Jamie Lamor Thompson via Shutterstock
By: Adonis Armstrong
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts revealed the renowned honorees for this year's prestigious awards, which recognize influential figures in American culture. Among the respected recipients announced on Thursday June 22nd are Queen Latifah, who will represent the genre of hip hop, alongside comedian Billy Crystal, soprano Renée Fleming, Barry Gibb of Bee Gees fame, and the renowned singer Dionne Warwick.
Queen Latifah to be honored at the 46th Annual Kennedy Center Honors.
— music data (@music__data) June 22, 2023
She’s the first female rapper to be honored at the prestigious ceremony. pic.twitter.com/PsW6QjrvXS
In an official statement, Latifah, who has consistently showcased her incredible talent across multiple musical genres and in the realm of Hollywood, expressed her thoughts on this remarkable achievement. “I’m humbled to be included in this incredible list of artists honored by the Kennedy Center,” Queen said. “When we started on this journey decades ago, we were often told, ‘No.’ ‘No, you won’t be able to leave New Jersey.’ ‘No, if you rap, you can’t sing.’ ‘No, singers can’t become actresses.’ ‘No, actors can’t also produce.’ To now be recognized amongst so many multihyphenates feels unbelievable, not for just me and my team, but for our community.”
Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter also acknowledged the significant milestone achieved by hip hop, emphasizing its ongoing celebration throughout the year. “This year, we pay special tribute to the 50th anniversary of hip hop, a uniquely American culture whose constant evolution is one of enduring relevance and impact, reflecting our society as it has grown into an international phenomenon.”
The highly anticipated 46th Kennedy Center Honors will be hosted by former honoree Gloria Estefan, and the prestigious event will be held at the Opera House venue in Washington, D.C. The ceremony will be broadcasted on CBS and streamed on Paramount+ on December 3rd.
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Rick Ross Donates Over $30K to Keep Fayette County Clinic Open in Georgia
Rick Ross made a major contribution to a Georgia clinic in Fayette County, over $30,000 which will help serve their patients who live 200% below the poverty line. We discuss it here!
JACKSONVILLE FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 3, 2022 Rick Ross speaking with President A. Zachary Faison Jr. and Guest Host at Edward Waters University
Credit: April Visuals via Shutterstock
By: Gentel Sharrie
Rick Ross just made a major contribution to a Georgia clinic in Fayette County. He donated over $30,000 to keep the clinic open after learning about the closure while talking with his lawyer Steve Sadow.
Rick Ross’s donation will continue to help serve their patients who live 200% below the poverty line, according to the clinic’s executive director Geneva Weaver. Rick Ross also said he will continue to help out as much as possible.
Throughout his career, Rick Ross has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including "Trilla" (2008), "Teflon Don" (2010), "God Forgives, I Don't" (2012), "Mastermind" (2014), and "Rather You Than Me" (2017). His albums often feature collaborations with other notable artists in the industry such as Drake, DJ Khaled, Kanye West, French Montana and more.
Rick Ross Donates Over $30K to Keep Fayette County Clinic Open in Georgia
Photo cred: WSB-TV
Apart from his music career, Rick Ross has ventured into various business endeavors. He is the founder of the record label Maybach Music Group (MMG) and has signed several artists to the label, including Meek Mill and Wale. He also owns several Wingstop and Checkers franchises and has released his own line of Wingstop-inspired lemon pepper seasoning.
Rick Ross has made a significant impact on the hip-hop industry with his distinctive style, entrepreneurial ventures, and larger-than-life persona.
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Dr. Dre to Be Honored with Inaugural Hip-Hop Icon Award by ASCAP
Dr. Dre to receive prestigious Hip-Hop Icon Award from ASCAP, celebrating his impact on the music industry. We discuss it here!
Performer/producer DR. DRE at the Radio Music Awards at the Aladdin Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas. He was presented with the Legend Award. 04NOV2000. Paul Smith / Featureflash
By: Adonis Armstrong
The American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) revealed today June 20th that the first-ever Hip Hop Icon Award will be award to the legendary Dr. Dre during the 2023 Rhythm & Soul Music Awards, as reported by AP News.
As a prominent producer, the Dre gained prominence within the West Coast gangster rap scene alongside Eazy-E and Ice Cube, forming the influential group N.W.A. Their provocative lyrics during the late 1980s left a significant impact on both hip-hop culture and the music industry as a whole. Also, Dre played a key role in co-founding Death Row Records and tapped in on a solo career starting with his groundbreaking debut masterpiece called The Chronic, which revolutionized the hip-hop landscape and paved the way for artists who followed in his footsteps.
The Hip Hop Icon Award, as indicated by ASCAP, recognizes ASCAP members who have made a significant and lasting impact on the art and culture of hip hop. These individuals have inspired and influenced fellow music creators, contributing to the rich tapestry of the genre. ASCAP itself is an organization comprised of professional songwriters, composers, and music publishers. It is governed and founded by its members and stands as a global leader in performance royalties, advocacy, and service for music creators.
This accomplishment shouldn’t come as a surprise, considering his his extensive track record of producing chart-topping hits for renowned artists such as JAY-Z, Eminem, 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, 2Pac, Nas, T.I., Eve, Mary J. Blige, Gwen Stefani, Busta Rhymes, and Kendrick Lamar, among others. Furthermore, Dr. Dre's first Emmy win was secured for his remarkable performance at the 2022 Super Bowl halftime show alongside Eminem, Blige, Snoop Dogg, Lamar, and 50 Cent. In 2010, Dr. Dre was honored with the ASCAP Founders Award at the 23rd annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards.
Dr. Dre’s groundbreaking early work laid a foundation for hip hop as we know it today,” Paul Williams, chairman of the board and president at ASCAP, said in a statement. “As a champion for some of today’s biggest artists and a successful entrepreneur, he changed the culture around hip hop. In celebration of hip hop's 50th birthday, the event is scheduled to occur on Thursday June 22nd in Los Angeles, California. DJ Kid Capri and DJ Drama have been enlisted to create an electrifying atmosphere for the night, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.
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J. Cole Joins New Ownership Group of the Charlotte Hornets
J. Cole joins Charlotte Hornets ownership, highlighting his passion for basketball and expanding his influence beyond music. We discuss it here!
Las Vegas, NV/USA - 9/24/16: Jermaine Lamarr Cole known as J. Cole performs at Life Is Beautiful Festival in Las Vegas. Cole has been nominated for several Grammy Awards.
By: Adonis Armstrong
An agreement has been reached by Michael Jordan to sell the majority stake he holds in the NBA team, Charlotte Hornets.
This significant development could potentially usher in the dawn of a new era in Charlotte, as the Hornets have endured a longstanding reputation as one of the NBA's least successful teams. Since Jordan took on majority ownership in 2010, the team has only achieved three winning seasons and made two playoff appearances. Under the guidance of head coach Steve Clifford, the team recorded a disappointing 27-55 record last season, while the 2022-23 campaign marked Clifford's return for his second tenure with the Hornets
Today June 16th, Hornets Sports & Entertainment announced that Michael Jordan is in the process of selling his stake in the Charlotte Hornets to "The Buyer Group," led by Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall, who have previously been involved in minority team ownership. Notably, Plotkin also holds a significant stake in the Atlanta Hawks, which he is currently in the process of selling.
Read the full release on https://t.co/BzkRIrrehy.
— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) June 16, 2023
🔗 https://t.co/roYUH9ilgI pic.twitter.com/N17fYc0HBp
Within “The Buying Group,” a notable addition is J. Cole, the decorated emcee, who will join as a part-owner of the Hornets. The 38-year-old rapper, hailing from Fayetteville, North Carolina, has deep roots in the state, hosting his annual Dreamville Festival there. While universally known for his music, J. Cole has consistently showcased his passion for basketball throughout the years, highlighting his admiration for the sport.
A decade ago, during an interview with Sports Illustrated, he expressed, “I was always in love with basketball as a kid, but I thought I was way better than I really was.” In the year 2021, Cole inked a contract with the Rwanda Patriots of the African Basketball League, committing to play in a series of three to six games.
The Fayettenam vet, Hollywood Cole, is a passionate Hornets fan who has been actively featured on the team's digital platforms in recent years, solidifying his connection to the organization. His involvement in assisting Caleb Martin's signing with the Miami Heat in 2021 has further propelled him into the spotlight. I believe he has a great future within the organization and the potential to turn the Hornets around.
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50 Cent Sacramento Kings Collaborate to Introduce Youth Sports & Mentoring League
50 Cent has partnered with the Sacramento Kings to establish the Kings and Queens Rise Co-Ed Youth Sports and Mentoring League through his G-Unity Foundation. We discuss it here!
LOS ANGELES, CA. January 30, 2020: Curtis 50 Cent Jackson at the Hollywood Walk of Fame Star Ceremony honoring Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson. Pictures: Paul Smith/Featureflash
By: Adonis Armstrong
In a recent interview with The Sacramento Bee, the New York Mogul 50 Cent announced a collaborative partnership between his G-Unity Foundation and the Sacramento Kings, resulting in the establishment of the Kings and Queens Rise Co-Ed Youth Sports and Mentoring League.
“The fastest way to achieve what you’d like to achieve is not necessarily the right way,” Jackson stated. “So a lot of the temptation is to go in the wrong direction to achieve what you want when you’re younger. This is why these programs are effective.”
On Monday, he took to Instagram to share the link to the article, with the caption. “It’s a great program King & Queens rise. I had fun hanging out with the kids, if we keep them active, they won’t go get in trouble.”
During the interview itself, 50 Cent commented, “I think idle time is the devil’s time. Especially in inner cities where you got so many different distractions, so many different influences, positive and negative.” He also added: “They get a chance to be part of that team effort. I think it teaches them lessons that are priceless in the early stages.”
This isn't the first collaboration between 50 Cent and the Kings' organization, as his beverage company, Sire Spirits, is already an official partner of the team. The interview coincides with 50 Cent's upcoming tour, which might potentially be his last.
During a recent Instagram post, 50 Cent revealed that his upcoming Final Lap Tour could potentially mark his final worldwide tour. “Because ticket sales are doing so well they’re adding new markets so the UK, North America, and possibly Australia will be in there. I gotta get to Africa, I got a lot of spots I gotta hit before I be done, because this is the Final Lap Tour. I won’t be running around like this no more,” he expressed. He also stated, “I gotta do my film and television stuff and got a lot of other things going on behind the scenes that I gotta work on. So I won’t be out touring as much as I’ve been touring… I’m having fun this time because it’s set up to enjoy myself, we not feeling pressure.”
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Babyface Delivers Top Tier Performance on NPR Music’s Tiny Desk
Music legend Babyface delivered a top tier performance on NPR Music’s Tiny Desk featuring Chanté Moore, Tank, and Avery Wilson! We discuss it here!
Babyface Performs on NPR Music’s Tiny Desk
By: Omar Cook
June is Black Music Month so it’s only right that NPR Music’s “Tiny Desk” brought some legends to perform! Yesterday on June 8, music icon Babyface blessed the fans with a dope live band performance on NPR.
Babyface ws joined by some other amazing singers including Chanté Moore, Tank, and Avery Wilson was they sung the background vocals. Babyface is an 12-time Grammy award winner with 50 nominations and he made sure to perform some of his best hits.
The set kicked off with Babyface performing his iconic song, “Two Occasions” followed by “Whip Appeal”. Chanté Moore then took over with a captivating performance of the song “Superwoman”. Babyface paid respects to other artists by performing songs that he wrote including “Can We Talk” from Tevin Campbell, “Not Gon’ Cry” by Mary J. Blige, and Boyz II Men hits “I’ll Make Love To You” and “End of the Road”. The fans had everything positive to say as twitter blew up with feedback.
Avery Wilson ladies and gentlemen.
— Dez (@The06Kyd) June 9, 2023
The bridge is burned . 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 #Tinydesk #BabyFace #Tank #ChanteMoore #CanWeTalk pic.twitter.com/3EVD5KnDie
Babyface is one of the greatest artist, performers and writers of our time. And then to add Tank, Chanté Moore, and Avery Wilson as back up singers?!! 🥹🔥 pic.twitter.com/biOSkCOThj
— Pasta Matcha Slut (@KeyKeyBoomBoom) June 9, 2023
It was sis in the background “my goodness” for us!😭
— Izzy & Liv (@izzyandliv) June 9, 2023
Hit after hit!🔥 Babyface, Chante Moore, Tank, and Avery Wilson killing ‘End of The Road’ by Boyz II Men on Tiny Desk!👏🏽💐 pic.twitter.com/mJeJJ53KpL
Check out the full performance below!
Babyface: Tiny Desk Concert
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Bun B's Trill Burgers is Now Open in Houston
Trill Burgers, led by Bun B, celebrates the opening of its brick-and-mortar establishment in Houston's Montrose neighborhood. We discuss it here!
Bun B's Trill Burgers is Now Open in Houston
By: Adonis Armstrong
Trill Burgers achieved a significant milestone on Wednesday June 7th with the grand opening of its brick-and-mortar location in Houston's Montrose neighborhood. In an Instagram video, Bun B expressed his excitement and reflected on this dope accomplishment.
“We’ve been working a long time for the opportunity to be able to serve you guys,” Trill OG stated. “Took a lot of hard work, a lot of planning. Most importantly, a lot of support from people like you in order for us to get where we are right now. It’s been a dream for us and it’s actually coming true. We are now actually ready to serve you guys food on a daily basis.”
Bun B's Trill Burgers has experienced significant growth since its establishment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The fast food business has gained nationwide popularity through its presence at various events like Coachella, Rolling Loud, Rock The Bells, and even Houston's City Hall, attracting a crowd of 2,000 people. Notably, the burger joint received praise and recognition, including the prestigious title of "Best Burger In America" at the Ultimate Burger Spot contest held in New York City's Times Square by "Good Morning America."
Apart from Bun B, the team behind Trill Burgers includes Creative Director Andy Nguyen, Chief Marketing Officer Nick Scurfield, Chief Operating Officer Mike Pham, and Executive Chef Fernando Valladares. The official website provides a comprehensive breakdown of the distinctive qualities that set their food apart from the competition. “We quickly gained notoriety for our mouthwatering smashburgers, made with two 44 Farms Texas beef patties, caramelized onions, pickles and our patented Trill Sauce on a potato roll bun,” the message stated.
Trill Burgers offers vegan options, so if you're in Houston, stop by and support Trill OG. I know I'll definitely make a stop to grab a vegan burger with no onions whenever I'm in Houston.
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Tupac Shakur Receives His Star On The Hollywood Walk Of Fame
Hip Hop icon Tupac Shakur received a star on The Hollywood Walk of Fame, where friends and family were there to accept the recognition on his behalf. We discuss it here!
Tupac Shakur
By: Gentel Sharrie
It was a great day in Hollywood as family, friends, and fans came together to honor the legend Tupac Shakur for getting a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Tupac’s sister Sekyiwa "Set" Shakur accepted the accepted the honor and recognition on behalf of her brother saying "It fills my heart with honor to stand here today representing the Shakur family,'' she said. "Tupac knew deep down that he was always meant for something great. And as his little sister, I had the privilege to watch that greatness unfold.''
Tupac was a multi-talented rapper, actor, and activist. He was born on June 16, 1971, in East Harlem, New York City. Tupac began his career as a rapper in the late 1980s and gained prominence in the early 1990s. He released several successful albums, including "2Pacalypse Now" (1991), "Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z..." (1993), "Me Against the World" (1995), and "All Eyez on Me" (1996), which is considered his magnum opus. His music often addressed social and political issues, and he was known for his introspective and thoughtful lyrics.
Aside from his music career, Tupac also pursued acting and appeared in films such as "Juice" (1992), "Poetic Justice" (1993), and "Gridlock'd" (1997). He was known for his charismatic presence and ability to captivate audiences both on and off the stage.
Tupac's life was tragically cut short when he was shot multiple times in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas in 1996. He was only 25 years old at the time of his death. The circumstances surrounding his murder remain unsolved, and there have been many theories and speculation about the events leading up to his death.
Despite his untimely demise, Tupac's legacy continues to endure. His music continues to inspire and resonate with fans around the world. He has sold millions of records posthumously and has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. Tupac's impact on hip-hop culture and his influence on subsequent generations of artists cannot be overstated.
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Lil Baby Calls For Change at Funeral of 16 Year Old Shooting Victim Bre’Asia Powell
Hip Hop star Lil Baby calls out for change at the funeral Bre’Asia Powell, a 16 year old girl who lost her life in a shooting in Atlanta. “What I do wanna say to the like the youth and the younger generation, as a we, because I’m with y’all. We gotta change.” We discuss it here!
Bre’Asia Powell
Credit: FOX 5 NEWS/YOUTUBE
By: Omar Cook
At a funeral held on Saturday, June 3, mourners gathered to honor the memory of Bre’Asia Powell, the 16-year-old girl who tragically lost her life in a shooting outside Benjamin E. Mays High School in Atlanta. Among those in attendance was rapper Lil Baby, who used the occasion to advocate for meaningful change in the city. Lil Baby has consistently spoken out for necessary change in the city.
Fox 5 Atlanta reported that on May 28, early Sunday morning, tragedy struck when Bre’Asia Powell was fatally shot during a gathering outside her school at approximately 2:30 a.m. The 16-year-old, a junior at the school, was an active member of both the basketball and cheerleading teams. As of now, the police have yet to identify any suspects in the case, and Crime Stoppers has offered a reward of $10,000 for information leading to a resolution of this devastating incident.
Lil Baby gave a speech to the youth during the funeral of a 16-year-old girl from Atlanta who lost her life following a fight at a graduation party 🙏🏽🕊️ pic.twitter.com/fpuL5IjT5j
— No Jumper (@nojumper) June 5, 2023
Family and Friends Mourn The Passing of 16 year old Bre’Asia Powell Credit: Jenni Girtman
The service has held at Jackson Memorial Baptist Church where a number of people close to to Powell spoke at the funeral including Kamira Garrett, one of her coaches. “She was a very well-mannered kid. She was very special to us all,” Garrett stated. Atlanta City Council member Andrea L. Boone shared her condolences as well stating that she grew up in the same community as Powell and that she also “attended L.P. Miles Elementary School just like young Bre’Asia.” Atlanta rap star Lil Baby expressed that he wasn’t just there to speak on the incident, but that he wanted some real change to take place and that he would be a part of the plan to make it happen.
“What I do wanna say to the like the youth and the younger generation, as a we, because I’m with y’all. We gotta change” said Lil Baby as he opened up his speech. “I’m only here to not speak but—we gotta come up with a plan, and I’m here to help the plan.”
Last Sunday, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens spoke on Bre’asia stating “This young lady was full of life.” He also stated that Bre’asia was set to work in Atlanta’s summer youth employment program which was set to begin Tuesday
“We’re always heartbroken when anyone loses their life in our city, but especially when it’s a young person the day after school lets out,” Dickens said. This is a tragic loss for the Atlanta community, but also a wake up call that there needs to be some real plans in place to stop gun violence, especially among teens.
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Chuck D Set to Narrate Podcast Series Covering the Origins of Hip-Hop
Chuck D to narrate an Audible series celebrating hip-hop's 50th anniversary, exploring the birth of the genre in the South Bronx in 1973. We discuss it here!
By: Adonis Armstrong
Introducing Can You Dig It? - an innovative audio docu-drama presented by Chuck D, a renowned hip-hop legend and inductee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This captivating series dives into a rarely told narrative that played a pivotal role in giving birth to a global artistic movement. Premiering on August 10th as a 5-part Audible Original, it coexist with the historic 50th anniversary of hip-hop.
The journey begins with the tragic murder of Cornell "Black Benjie" Benjamin, a prominent member of the influential Ghetto Brothers gang in the south Bronx in 1971. Discover how Benjamin's peacemaking efforts sparked the historic Hoe Avenue peace meeting, a significant truce among rival gangs that paved the way for the emergence of hip-hop culture. Today the City of New York will honor the memory of Cornell Benjamin by renaming the intersection of E. 165th Street and Rogers Place in the Bronx as "Cornell 'Black Benjie' Benjamin Way," marking the exact location of his fateful incident. The cast, crew, and production team of Can You Dig It? will proudly attend the street renaming ceremony, joining the Benjamin family and supporters in commemorating this special recognition.
This compelling series surrounds a fusion of scripted dramatic sequences and insightful commentary from admired cultural figures, including renowned street photographers Joe Conzo and Henry Chalfant, former Black Panther Joseph Mpa, and the pioneering emcee of hip-hop, Coke La Rock. Additionally, it incorporates interviews with family members and experts, cinematic score, and archival recordings. The scripted cast represents the vibrant diversity of the borough they proudly hail from, with a predominantly Black and LatinX ensemble that showcases emerging talent from the Bronx and its surrounding regions, along with the active contributions from local community arts programs.
Can You Dig It? attempts to shine a spotlight on the steady resilience of a community, emphasizing the triumph of peace over violence and celebrating the often overlooked heroes who have altered the course of history. The series dives into a pivotal era of change and unrest in America and New York City, specifically during the late 1960s and early 1970s. It examines the prevailing circumstances and policies that contributed to profound urban decay and the rise of gang activity in the Bronx, such as discriminatory housing and zoning laws, as well as the construction of the Cross Bronx Expressway.
Chuck D explains the central theme of Can You Dig It? during the show, stating: “No death, no peace; no peace, no Kool Herc party; no party, no hip-hop. Black Benjie is an unsung hero…the direct correlation between the peace treaty and the birth of hip-hop is clear. There’d be no Public Enemy without this story.” The historic Hoe Avenue peace meeting of 1971 not only enhanced safety in the Bronx but also facilitated a vibrant exchange of ideas, blurring the boundaries of gang territories. As a testament to this transformative period, just two years later, the renowned Kool Herc Back-to-School party unfolded at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in the Bronx.
The creative minds behind Can You Dig It? are Pete Chelala, Bryan Master, and Julian Voloj, who together form PB&J Productions LLC, an entertainment and content studio based in New York. Collaborating with them as executive producers are Lorrie Boula from Channel Zero, known for her work on PBS/BBC's Fight The Power: How Hip-Hop Changed the World, and the respected Chuck D.
The docu-drama will be available August 10 only on Audible.
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Tupac Set to Receive Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
‘All Eyez’ will be on Tupac as he will be honored with a star on Hollywood Walk of Fame. We discuss it here!
By: Adonis Armstrong
Tupac Shakur, one of the most influential rappers of all time is set to receive a star on Hollywood Walk of Fame dedicated to the memory of the late great hip hop icon. 2Pac will be the recipient of the 2,758th star on the Walk of Fame, born in Harlem, New York, whose profound impact on the hip hop industry, notably the West Coast scene, remains undeniable.
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce made a significant announcement regarding the posthumous honor for the rapper, as stated in a press release shared with The LA Times on Wednesday May 31st. Set to take place on June 7, the display of Tupac Shakur's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame will be a emotional tribute, taking place just a little over a week before what would have been his 52nd birthday on June 16.
Starting at the Baltimore School for the Arts, Shakur studied a diverse range of disciplines, including acting, poetry, jazz, and ballet. In the initial stages of his career, Shakur adopted the name MC New York before later transitioning to the iconic moniker 2Pac while being a part of the rap group Digital Underground.
Shakur started out as a background dancer/roadie for Digital Underground in the early 90s. He finally got a chance to grace the mic on a worldwide stage when he was offered to be feature on Digital Underground’s “Same Song,” from the movie Nothing But Trouble. He also made a appearance in the movie as well.
After gaining some attention from “Same Song” Tupac showed his versatility by portraying one of the most rememberable characters Bishop in the movie Juice. During his time filming he was working on his debut album 2Pacalypse Now, which generated both critical acclaim and controversy upon its release. Some praised Tupac's lyricism and social commentary, while others criticized the album for its explicit language and confrontational approach. Nevertheless, it laid the foundation for Tupac's subsequent albums and established him as a significant voice in hip-hop.
Afterward, he proceeded to release three additional albums before his tragic death at the age of 25. Each of these albums achieved notable success on the Billboard 200, with Me Against the World and All Eyez on Me reaching the top of the chart. In the wake of his passing, Shakur's mother established Amaru Entertainment, in collaboration with Interscope Records, leading to the release of six posthumous studio albums.
In 2017, Pac achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first solo hip-hop artist to be honored with induction into the esteemed Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. In addition to his musical accomplishments, Shakur showcased his acting skills through more notable performances in films such as Poetic Justice, Above The Rim, Gridlock'd, and Gang Related.
The ceremony for the unveiling of the Walk of Fame star will be conducted by renowned L.A. radio host Big Boy, with notable speakers such as director Allen Hughes (known for the Hulu documentary series Dear Mama), writer Jamal Joseph, and Tupac's sister Sekyiwa "Set" Shakur, who will graciously accept the star on his behalf.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame Ceremony is scheduled to take place at 6212 Hollywood Blvd. on June 7 at 10:30 a.m. and will be live streamed on the official Walk of Fame YouTube page.
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Future Opens Cutting-Edge STEM Lab for Atlanta Students
Future, through his Freewishes Foundation, has launched an innovative STEM lab in Atlanta, offering interactive classes and mentorship programs to empower Black and Brown students in pursuing successful careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. We discuss it here!
By: Adonis Armstrong
Grammy award-winning rapper Future has consistently demonstrated his commitment to giving back to the Atlanta community, with initiatives such as hosting a Christmas shopping spree, renovating his high school's weight room, and establishing a scholarship for incoming college freshmen. His most recent endeavor focuses on providing students in Atlanta with the necessary skills and resources to pursue successful careers in STEM fields.
Collaborating with the Freewishes Foundation, the acclaimed rapper known as Future Hendrix has opened a cutting-edge STEM lab aimed at providing Atlanta students with exceptional learning opportunities. This state of the art facility offers interactive classes and mentorship programs in the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, promoting access to often neglected areas of study in underserved communities. Situated in Bessie Branham Park, Kirkwood, the same neighborhood where Future himself grew up, the lab is committed to supporting aspiring students who aspire to pursue careers in STEM.
The I Am A Dreamer S.T.E.A.M. Lab was revealed by the foundation, providing an exclusive sneak peek that was shared through a heartfelt Instagram post, which can be seen below. “Our soft opening was nothing short of amazing, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact that this will have on the community,” the caption stated. “We’re so excited to be able to share our new sleek and innovative lab with the students of Atlanta. The kids in the Kirkwood area will now have the opportunity to receive access to S.T.E.A.M. education.”
“It’s important that all students receive access to STEM education regardless of their background,”the rapper stated, per AfroTech. “Our Freewishes Foundation, with the support of the 2K Foundations, has helped make this possible in our Atlanta community. We’re thankful for their commitment to support our initiative.”
Sharing a similar viewpoint, Tia Wilburn, Executive Director of the Freewishes Foundation and sister of Future, expressed the logic behind incorporating arts education into the lab's curriculum alongside science and math, as commonly known as STEAM. Wilburn emphasized the importance of offering a well-rounded educational experience that recognizes the value of creativity and artistic expression within STEM disciplines.
“We are creating a science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics lab as an extension of Freewishes’ educational initiative,” Wilburn shared. “We wanted to add art because both Future and I support creativity.”
“Our objective in providing educational opportunities is to ensure inclusive and quality education for all students regardless of income and background,” she continued. “There is a major gap in STEM education that impacts marginalized communities, and we want to close that gap so that no child is left behind.”
It's dope that Future and his team are giving back to their community. That's what it's all about: giving back and providing necessary tools for Black and Brown kids to thrive.
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Brownsville, Tennessee Plans Statue to Honor Tina Turner's Iconic Legacy
Brownsville, Tennessee announces plans to honor Tina Turner with a statue and preserve her legacy, paying tribute to the iconic Queen of Rock and Roll. We discuss it here!
Tina Turner / Steve Rapport via Getty Images
By: Adonis Armstrong
As the world continues to grieve the loss of Tina Turner, the iconic Queen of Rock and Roll, her birthplace of Brownsville, Tennessee, announces its plans to preserve her legacy. As previously covered Tina passed away on May 24th at the age of 83.
Mayor Bill Rawls Jr., in an article released by TMZ on Saturday May 27th, revealed his plans to build a statue commemorating Tina Turner in Brownsville's Heritage Park, located close to Carver High School where the renowned rock and roll hall of famer attended during her residency in the town. “When Tina stepped on stage, she owned it. We want this statue to represent that passion. Tina was an inspiration to the entire world… She showed the people of Brownsville no matter where you start, you own your story about where you end up,” Rawls stated.
Originally named Anna Mae Bullock, the songstress known for "Private Dancer" adopted a new identity as she achieved stardom as one half of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue. Their intense relationship was depicted in the 1993 biopic What's Love Got to Do With It? featuring the legendary Angela Bassett. While the duo earned a Grammy together, Tina's solo career soared to even greater heights, collecting eight Grammy wins and numerous American Music Awards, among other notable achievements.
Tina Turner Museum
Prior to her passing, Tina Turner's hometown acknowledged her remarkable accomplishments by establishing the Tina Turner Museum, an institution inaugurated in 2014. “Haywood County has lost a legend. Please join us for a twilight memorial to honor her legacy,” as stated on the official website of the building, the event took place on Sunday May 28th at 7 p.m., according to the announcement "on the premises of the Tina Turner Museum."
With the news from Brownsville, Tennessee planning to build a statue in Tina Turner's honor further amplifies the significance of her legacy. As her iconic songs continue to captivate audiences, the statue will serve as a lasting tribute, ensuring that her impact on music and culture remains eternally celebrated. Tina Turner's memory will be forever cherished in her birthplace. May she rest in peace, knowing that her profound influence will endure through this amazing gesture.
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Anthony Hamilton Receives Honorary Doctorate From Johnson C. Smith University
Anthony Hamilton receives prestigious honorary doctorate from Johnson C. Smith University. We discuss it here!
Singer Anthony Hamilton arrives on the Red Carpet for the 26th annual Bounce Trumpet Awards on January 20th 2018 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta Georgia-USA
Credit: Jamie Lamor Thompson via Shutterstock
By: Adonis Armstrong
Johnson C. Smith University, a historically Black university located in Charlotte, North Carolina, has honored Anthony Hamilton with an honorary doctorate of fine arts in recognition of his achievements.
On Sunday May 21th, Hamilton received this exceptional honor at the Bojangles Coliseum on the university campus. To mark this significant achievement, the singer took to Instagram to share the memorable moment with his fans.
The video captures Hamilton standing on stage, his face beaming with pride, as he accepts his doctorate. “Introducing Doctor Anthony Cornelius Hamilton (Honorary Doctor of Fine Arts). THANK YOU Johnson C. Smith University and all who made this special moment possible,”Hamilton penned in his caption.
Like his former So So Def CEO Jermaine Dupri and Bay Area legend E-40, Hamilton now joins a prestigious roster of celebrities who have been awarded honorary doctorates in recent months. Usher, in particular, received his honorary doctorate from Berklee College of Music, adding to the list of notable recipients.
Hamilton praised the individuals making up the class of 2023 and offered them uplifting words of encouragement as they set forth on a new chapter in their lives. “You’ve also overcome the pandemic. You’ve navigated remote learning, and I did too with my kids. You made it through this virus that could have taken your life and almost took mine,” Hamilton shared with the crowd.
He also empahzised to the students the significance of persistence and humility in the early stages of his career, sharing his own experiences as an example. He stated, “I just kept pushing and I just kept dreaming. Cutting hair, singing in the barbershop. That lead me to meet a guy and that guy took me to New York, and that got my first record deal.”
Singer Anthony Hamilton Receives Honorary Degree From Charlotte University
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Tina Turner, Iconic Queen of Rock and Roll Passes Away At 83
Tina Turner, the queen of rock and roll and one of the greatest performers in history, passed away at 83. We discuss her life and legacy here!
Denize Alain / Sygma via Getty Images
By: Gentel Sharrie
Tina Turner, the queen of rock and roll and one of the greatest performers in history has passed away peacefully in her Switzerland home. Over the years, Tina Turner has won many awards for her hit songs which have inspired the world. Turner was a 7x Grammy winner and was also inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Tina Turner rose to prominence in the 1960s as a member of the musical duo Ike & Tina Turner. Together her and her former husband Ike recorded several hits, including "River Deep-Mountain High" and "Proud Mary." Once Tina and Ike separated, she began her solo career. Her 1984 album "Private Dancer" rose to the top of international fame and included hit singles such as "What's Love Got to Do with It" and "Private Dancer." She continued to release successful albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, solidifying her status as an iconic music figure.
Tina Turner wasn’t just known for her electrifying performances and top-of-the-line dance moves. She also ventured into acting. She appeared in films such as "Tommy" in 1975 and "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome" in 1985, showcasing her talent beyond the music industry.
Tina Turner Starring in “Mad Max”
Tina Turner’s career was so touching to the world that a biopic film “What’s Love Got To Do With It” was created to share her real-life experiences including the challenges she faced and ultimately overcame. Her story serves as an inspiration to many aspiring artists and individuals.
Angela Bassett, portrayed Turner in the film and earned an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of her in the 1993 film. Bassett talked to The Hollywood Reporter about Turner's legacy.
“How do we say farewell to a woman who owned her pain and trauma and used it as a means to help change the world? Through her courage in telling her story, her commitment to stay the course in her life, no matter the sacrifice, and her determination to carve out a space in rock and roll for herself and for others who look like her, Tina Turner showed others who lived in fear what a beautiful future filled with love, compassion, and freedom should look like.”
Bassett continued on to say:
“Her final words to me — for me — were ‘You never mimicked me. Instead, you reached deep into your soul, found your inner Tina, and showed her to the world.’ I shall hold these words close to my heart for the rest of my days. I am honored to have known Tina Turner. I am humbled to have helped show her to the world. So on today, while we mourn the loss of this iconic voice and presence, she gave us more than we could have ever asked. She gave us her whole self. And Tina Turner is a gift that will always be “simply the best.” Angels, sing thee to thy rest…Queen.”
Tina Turner and Angela Bassett on set of What’s Love Got To Do With It
“People think my life has been tough, but I think it has been a wonderful journey. The older you get, the more you realize it’s not what happens, but how you deal with it.”
Tina has lived her life to the fullest and her legacy will continue to live on. Tina Turner will be missed but her songs will be forever heard. May she rest in peace.
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G Herbo's 'Swervin' Through Stress' Attains Nonprofit Status
G Herbo's organization, Swervin' Through Stress, achieves nonprofit status as it tackles mental health concerns in the Black community. We discuss it here!
G Herbo (Paras Griffin / Getty Images)
By: Adonis Armstrong
G Herbo revealed on May 17th that his organization, Swervin' Through Stress, dedicated to addressing mental health concerns in the Black community, has obtained official nonprofit status as a 501(c)(3). Alongside destigmatizing mental wellness, the initiative has been actively offering essential resources and organizing events for individuals of color.
Herbo elaborated on his intentions in a statement given to Billboard. “Our community doesn’t talk about mental health enough,” he stated. “With Swervin’ Through Stress, I really wanted to create a space where it’s okay for us to talk about what we’re going through. A lot of us can relate to each other’s struggles.”
On May 20th, Swervin' Through Stress, in collaboration with Chance The Rapper's SocialWorks and Black JoyRide, will join forces to host the My State Of Mind Community Bike Ride and Wellness Block Party at the Harold Washington Cultural Center in Chicago. Then on May 21st, the movement will continue with a private pampering event organized by the Free Root Operation, a dedicated organization supporting women impacted by gun violence.
The announcement of Swervin' Through Stress achieving 501c3 status coexist with the release of G Herbo's highly anticipated mixtape, Strictly 4 My Fans 2, showcasing some hot features with GloRilla, Mello Buckzz, and Drench, among other emerging artists. This amazing achievement aligns perfectly with the mixtape's captivating soundscape, crafted by renowned producers including Southside, DJ Victoriouz, Oz On The Track, Luca Vialli, and more, reminiscent memories of Lil Herb's raw drill beats.
Rapper G Herbo talks Swervin' Through Stress, community initiatives
G Herbo, keep doing what you’re doing and continue to help the Black community in areas we are afraid to discuss, especially in terms of mental health.
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Meet Adonis Armstrong, Co-Founder & President of 247 Live Culture!
Email: Adonis@247LiveCulture.com