The Source Magazine

No Cap: Hip-Hop Stand Up. The SOURCE Cautions Ice Cube, Diddy, Kanye West & 50 Cent

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 17:50:45 GMT

Let’s get right to it. We are living in a state of emergency! “No time for fake ones” or for Hip Hop political correctness. Real talk is required during these most pivotal and dangerous times. Any unilateral effort by anyone, including Hip Hop celebrities and artists, contrary to seeking immediate change to the hell on earth we are experiencing right now must be fact-checked. This is why The Source, home of Hip Hop media, cautions Ice Cube, Kanye West, Diddy, and now 50 Cent. The fact of the matter is that while these giants in the culture have influence, they also should exhibit responsibility, be sufficiently educated on all the issues, and not allow political operatives and systems to unintentionally manipulate the situation.

In the United States of America, we are now officially just two weeks out from the most important election of our lives. The 400 plus years of pain and injustice in America, coupled with both the COVID-19 pandemic and the spree of video recorded killings and shootings have taken a toll on black and brown people across this country in ways that people from all races, cultures, and religions around the world have taken to the streets to protest, seeking unprecedented change on a united front, more than ever before. All of this movement for justice, human rights, safety, and personal health is taking place now and serves as a referendum on the upcoming elections — not just for the Presidency of the United States and the Supreme Court, but for the United States Senate as well as local federal and state elections, which are all extremely important to the democracy of America and the well-being of its citizens. While Black Americans are working to stress the importance of getting out to the polls and casting mail-in ballots, some of the leaders in Hip Hop culture are making moves that are head-scratchers to people both inside and outside of the culture.

As evidenced by the 2016 election, Black women showed up to the polls in an effort to not let us get to the point that we face today with President Donald Trump. On the road to the election on November 3, where we need Black men to match the efforts of women, four of Hip Hop’s finest are currently making moves and comments that are challenging efforts to change the occupant of the White House and detracting from the mission to do so. While we will not attempt to guess the motives of these influencers, the impact of their words and the timing of their actions should be addressed. It should certainly be clarified that none of these individuals speak for the entire Hip Hop community — no one does!

The subject of scrutiny for the past week, Ice Cube, was announced as a contributor to the Trump campaign, specifically through the suggestions in Trump’s “Platinum Plan.” Ice Cube is one of The Source’s all-time favorite artists who holds the record with 13 cover stories. He has also always been a stand-up brother who has been unafraid to speak truth to power — however, this latest episode was a mistake nonetheless. In truth, the contents of Ice Cube’s “Contract With Black America” (as publicly reported) had certain substantive and progressive ideals for Black America. The notion that a “contract” (ie, legal document or binding covenant) should be entered was also interesting and progressive, for the record. There is serious doubt as to whether any such contract would be enforced, as a matter of law, appropriations, and public policy. It is also not clear if Cube consulted with any respected African-American policy organizations think tanks, Civil Rights Organization, or even the Congressional Black Caucus in preparation of the Contract With Black America. Late last week, the Trump Administration announced they worked alongside Ice Cube to help develop Trump’s “Platinum Plan”, adopting principles from the “Contract With Black America” that Cube created and shared across his social platforms. Of course, this created a marketing and press “win” for Trump and certainly caused many to question which presidential candidate cares more and/or is most willing to do more for the African-American community: Donald Trump or Joe Biden.

Ice Cube stated that he has not endorsed Trump, nor is he working directly with him; instead, he took a meeting with those who are in power (Cube also notably communicated with representatives of Joe Biden who allegedly informed him they would meet with him after the elections). Nonetheless, Cube’s words didn’t fall on deaf ears. Indeed, the Black community should work with those that are in power but also be aware of the consequences, optics, and timing of any such meeting. The community’s disappointment with Ice Cube comes that he was “apparently” not able to discern that President Trump has had over 1,200 days to care about Black people. Donald Trump’s leadership (or lack thereof) during this recent pandemic has disgracefully decimated scores of Black and Hispanic people. Now, with three weeks left until the election, Ice Cube may have been unwittingly compromised as an influential Black pawn in hopes to sway votes for Trump to receive another 1200 days to not care about Black people. Alternatively, the Trump campaign may have considered such an association could “chill” Black men from coming to the polls and reduce the turnout. Cube suggests that he will not be used by Trump, yet has the “use” of Cube’s meeting (not even with Trump) already benefited Trump in some way? People are talking about it…

Other Hip Hop music leaders have also caused a political quagmire with their public statements and plans, some of which appear to be more of a personal publicity stunt than legitimate public service. Time will tell. While others have not received any direct support from Trump, efforts from other wealthy Black men include Mr. West, Diddy, and 50 Cent. Is this a case of courageous speech or an embarrassment of ignorance and self-promotion? Again, time will tell, yet the consequences are too dangerous to ignore or accept.

According to Politico, Trump representatives have stated that Kanye West aided in the development of the Platinum Plan; however, even if he had not, the announcement and impact of his own Presidential campaign is damaging. As one of the most influential figures on the planet, anything from Kanye, which currently is not sustainable for an actual chance to win the presidency, is arguably selfish, mentally incomprehensible, and politically inept. As time has demonstrated, Kanye’s attempts to legitimately be in the presidential race have served to be futile as the number of ballots his name would appear on has fallen woefully short. Instead of looking to empower a candidate that will not damage our country further, instead, he has trekked forward to promote merchandise, campaign ads, and videos in what appears to now be a grand effort of self-promotion. Again, this is not the time for self-promotion; Black people are dying all over the country.

Speaking of promotion, after suggesting Black people should keep our votes hostage, Diddy has adjusted his stance to now removing President Trump out of office. While Democratic political pundits will cheer the reluctant and unenthusiastic support for Biden, there is more that causes major political concern. After turning Diddy’s sights on the Presidential campaign, he has taken a similar yet different path as Ye in the promotion of a new political party, which he dubbed “Our Black Party.” The notion of supporting a Black political party is honorable, and we question whether Diddy contacted those who do that work and have been doing that work for many years. While the Hip Hop mogul has referred to his plans as an effort to launch a Black political party, this is ideal yet not a new concept in America. There has been a Black political party dating back to the 1840s, then to the well-known 1972 National Black Political Convention in Gary, Indiana where over 10,000 African Americans gathered, not for a concert but for intense and serious discussions and efforts to advocate for social, political, and economic change in America and beyond. A major component of such historic gathering, attended by Jesse Jackson, Amiri Baraka, Richard Hatcher (mayor of Gary), House Representative Charles C. Diggs, and many more, was supporting competent Black candidates to run for local, state, and federal office. Notably, the convention condemned the then-current political system proclaiming that the American political system had failed Black people and the only way to correct the problem was through independent Black politics. Hence, the need to truly examine this effort may have merit, yet the timing appears to be a distraction at best and political suicide at worst, during a crucial time of perhaps, the most important election of our lives.

Finally, last evening, 50 Cent took to social media after posting an image from either Fox News or a similar television network purportedly reporting Biden’s proposed “Top Tax Rates By State”. The caption by the world-renowned Hip Hop artist, actor, producer, and social media troll concluded with “WHAT THE FU#K! (VOTE For TRUMP) IM OUT…” He later stated “I don’t care Trump doesn’t like black people 62% are you out ya fu#king mind.” The post was followed by a series of Trump supporters and followers encouraging the need to vote for Trump. The tax increase is only applicable to Americans who make over $400,000 annually, but it was enough to get the “Candy Shop” rapper to endorse Donald Trump for the upcoming election.

The comment also failed to discuss the laundry list of disasters for Black people under the Trump administration. 50’s post did reference that “Trump doesn’t like Black people” yet that did not deter his support for Trump. This self-indictment is much too much to not object to. To support anyone who shows no support for your people and community is an absolutely senseless and/or selfish move with harmful consequences. Hate it or love it? We hate it… These are times to rise up. Our community deserves better and we hope 50 will apologize to the Black community for such a statement.

With respect to Joe Biden’s and Kamala Harris’ plans on economics for the African American community, this is what they have offered which The Source supports and wish to help bring into existence and hold the next administration and Congress accountable:

– Investing in African American Businesses and Entrepreneurs and ensuring equal

access to credit and capital and opportunities for African American-owned

businesses to obtain or participate in federal contracts.

– Expanding African American Homeownership and access to affordable, safe housing by investing $640 billion over 10 years so every American has access to housing that is affordable, stable, safe and healthy, accessible, energy-efficient and resilient, and located near good schools and with a reasonable commute to their jobs.

– Promoting more equitable wealth building and a more secure retirement by

making social security benefits more equitable and encouraging individuals and

businesses through tax incentives to save for retirement.

– Investing in communities that need it most by modernizing infrastructure, driving additional capital into low-income communities to spur development,

implementing Congressman Clyburn’s formula to target funds to census tracts

with persistent poverty.

– And supporting African American workers in their fight for equal pay, a safe work environment, and a place of opportunities.

No cap, everyone is entitled to their opinion, but our Hip Hop brothers need to do better. Way better, in fact! It is the role of the media to challenge public officials and figures with large celebrity and social media followings to be accountable and honest. During these times, all of America – especially Black America – needs to have a change for the better. Flirting with Donald Trump and his hype machine is dangerous. Just ask all those who were close to him who were sent to jail. Don’t get sent to jail in your own community by dancing with Trump.

This is a message of caution to the four Hip-Hop titans referenced in this article — Your efforts, no matter how positive they may seem to you, are adding hurdles to an election season that is already burdened by voter suppression, misinformation, long wait times at polling locations, and a pandemic.

Further, this is a message of advice to the Hip Hop community. Let’s turn out the vote like never before. Do not be tricked or trapped by anything to prevent your vote or allow your vote to be used against you, your mother, father, sister, brother, family, and community (period). Understand that you may enjoy an artist’s music and stream their latest releases; yet they are not all politically wise and astute. They are also often calculated for their personal or business interests. Be wise and check their lyrics carefully.

The battleground states are Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Georgia, Wisconsin, and Nevada. Turn up the volume and GET OUT THE VOTE.

In closing, we all know, “words are powerful” and “timing is everything” therefore, those in the Hip Hop community, especially its leading influencers, need to be responsible and use this powerful force we all collectively built to help us during these most powerful times to make sure this country, community, and culture advance forward — we must act like everything depends on it because so much of our lives do, in fact, depend on this election.

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Blueface Admits To Contracting an STD In 2019

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 17:20:17 GMT

Blueface is no stranger when it comes to spilling his bedroom deeds. The California rapper recently appeared on the Million Dollaz Worth of Game podcast with Gillie Da King and Wallo. When asked about his sexual encounters, he was open and honest. The “Thotiana” rapper stated that he doesn’t run into nor interact with the same group of women. Therefore, he rarely gets caught up in situations where he has to explain himself.

In addition, he shared that the “baddest” woman are the ones that are “burning.” In his case, he admits to being “burnt” as a result of his sexual past after being asked by Wallo.

“I ain’t been burnt since 2000, uhhh probably like ’19,” said the 23 year-old rapper.

He was later schooled by the two OGs Gillie & Wallo about wearing protection due to his high volume of bedroom activities.

“It is what it is,” responded Blueface. He continued by commending those who have contracted STDs due to lack of protection and high volume sexual encounters.

“If you ain’t been burnt than you ain’t been f**king.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CGkdyInBK9p/?igshid=fdagmpskab0b

Over the past few months, the West Coast rapper has turned his house into an online rendition of Bad Girls Club entitled, “Blue Girls Club.” He chose 16 women to live in his home, where they film their daily activities. Amongst these are some brutal fights, where some sustain serious injuries. Last week one of the Blue Girls Club members was shown returning from the emergency room in a wheelchair.

Fans can subscribe to the content on Blueface’s OnlyFans account for the amount of $50.

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Day 4 is up link in my bio @bluegc2020

A post shared by Blueface (@bluefacebleedem) on Oct 16, 2020 at 8:37am PDT

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#blueface got these fatherless women scrapping like MMA fighters they catching all types of injuries. Y’all watching this ratchetivity or na ?

A post shared by DJ Akademiks (@akademiks) on Oct 14, 2020 at 3:52pm PDT

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CIAA Enters Multi-Year Partnership with Academy Sports + Outdoors

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 16:53:14 GMT

The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), the oldest HBCU athletic conference, has partnered with sporting goods and outdoor retailer Academy Sports + Outdoors.

The new multi-year partnership is created to focus on establishing meaningful community initiatives across the markets that the CIAA has its footprint. The partnership will activate and amplify grassroots efforts, such as youth outreach and mentoring programs, that are inclusive of student-athletes and administrators from across the conference.

“We’re excited to be partnering with Academy Sports + Outdoors. This is a great opportunity to work jointly with an industry leader to develop impactful programming within our communities,” said CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams. “We value partnerships that provide our membership with access to resources and opportunities while allowing our conference to uniquely engage our fans and alumni through collaborative efforts.”

Academy Sports + Outdoors will have exposure and engagement with the passionate CIAA fan bases throughout the conference.

“Academy Sports + Outdoors is proud and excited to partner with one of America’s oldest athletic conferences, who has a rich tradition of athletic excellence, educational opportunity and community involvement,” said Lawrence Lobpries, Academy Sports + Outdoors’ senior vice president of marketing. “Through this new partnership, we’re excited to implement impactful initiatives that are inclusive for everyone in our local communities.”

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Killer Mike on MSNBC: ‘I believe part of social justice is making sure economic justice happens’

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 16:27:49 GMT

Killer Mike hit MSNBC to speak with anchor Stephanie Ruhle and highlighted his new digital bank for Latinx and Black customers, systemic racism, and more.

Speaking on the Greenwood initiative, Killer Mike highlighted how financials are imperative for minority groups.

“There have been many tragic stains on American history in relation to the group of people called Blacks in America. And this is one of them that I think is curable and fixable,” Mike said.

“The way that we can make up for this blight right now is individually getting financially responsible, financially literate but as a community organizing our dollars to be the tip of the spear so that we may now have a banking institution that allows for things like car loans, home loans and will graduate to things like small and medium business loans to incentivize, to give capital to businesses that are showing promise and that can grow.”

Killer Mike added “you can’t have social justice without social equality… I believe part of social justice is making sure economic justice happens.”

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Thursday’s Presidential Debate to Feature a Mute Button

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 15:58:08 GMT

Donald Trump and Joe Biden will once again hit the debate stage on Thursday. After the disaster of the first one, mainly due to Trump’s constant interaction, this debate will have the access to a mute button.

The USA Today reports when one speaker isn’t currently talking his microphone would be muted to pause interruptions. The Commission on Presidential Debates announced it will give the candidate two-minutes of speaking during opening statements at the beginning of each of the six topics during the Nashville debate.

The moderator will be Kristen Welker of NBC News and will be allowed to return time that is interrupted by either candidate.

“During the times dedicated for open discussion, it is the hope of the Commission that the candidates will be respectful of each other’s time, which will advance civil discourse for the benefit of the viewing public,” the commission said in a statement.

The topics that will be explored during the debate include Fighting COVID-19, American families, Race in America, Climate Change, National Security, and Leadership.

“We realize, after discussions with both campaigns, that neither campaign may be totally satisfied with the measures announced today,” the commission said. “One may think they go too far, and one may think they do not go far enough. We are comfortable that these actions strike the right balance and that they are in the interest of the American people, for whom these debates are held.”

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Lil Yachty Reveals He Secured ‘7-Figure Check’ for Writing City Girls’‘Act Up’

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 15:49:06 GMT

Back in the day, ghostwriters used to remain ghosts, but nothing is too taboo in the era of social media. Lil Yachty spilled the tea that he wrote City Girls’ “Act Up” and it was a shocker for many.

Yachty presumably wrote Yung Miami’s verse because JT has songwriting credit alongside Isaac Bynum.

Instead of praising the rapper for doing the same thing that Pardison Fontaine does for Cardi B, he was trolled about it on Instagram live.

“That was an eight-figure check and it’s still coming—I’m sorry. 7,” Lil Boar said. “Let me talk to whoever that civilian was on the last insert. These niggas be so closed-minded, right? And these niggas ain’t never seen no real money, right?”

Lil Yachty responds to people trying to clown him for writing Act Up for the City Girls & says he got a 7 figure check off that pic.twitter.com/5oWs2yNQjx
— 2Cool2Blog (@2Cool2BIog) October 19, 2020

“Act Up” was a huge record and was even sampled in Megan Thee Stallion’s “Hot Girl Summer.” Maybe Lil Yachty wanted recognition for his versatility, but it’s called GHOSTWRITING for a reason.

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Woman Died Due to COVID-19 in July While Waiting on Plane to Takeoff

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 15:45:35 GMT

While Donald Trump continues to downplay the impact of COVID-19, Americans are still dying. A woman from Garland, Texas, died from the deadly virus while waiting on her commercial flight to depart.

The death as reported by Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins, revealing the death occurred on July 25 after she had difficulty breathing. NBC Dallas-Forth Worth states that the woman was given supplemental oxygen but died. The woman was in her 30s and had underlying high-risk health conditions.

Dallas County has reported a total of 1,085 confirmed death related to the coronavirus.

Judge Jenkins also was critical of Governor Greg Abbott for easing restrictions when the cases declined.

“What happens with that is people hear that, they may not be going to a bar but they think it’s now safe to have friends over to watch the Cowboys game or do something else they want to do,” he said. “We keep jumping the gun and it puts us back in a situation which hurts public health and businesses and schools.”

Dallas County is closing in on 90,000 confirmed cases since March.

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Regina Hall Inks First-Look Deal With Showtime to Develop and Produce TV Shows

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 15:35:13 GMT

Regina Hall is a pillar in Black Hollywood and now she’ll get the opportunity to develop and produce television shows for Showtime.

The network announced that Hall inked a deal to develop television shows under her production company, Rh Negative.

She already has an upcoming one hour comedy special which she executive produced.

“I am excited to call Showtime home,” Hall said in a statement. “Working with Amy has been such a delightful and organic experience. I am thrilled to expand our partnership to create smart, meaningful and impactful stories.”

Ironically, this news comes after Netflix tweeted, “Regina Hall has done as much for the scary movie genre as Jamie Lee Curtis has … but some of you aren’t ready to have that conversation.”

What are your thoughts on this statement?

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Drake’s ‘God’s Plan’ is the Most Streamed Song in Apple Music History

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 15:24:27 GMT

Drake is currently working on his follow-up to Scorpion but in the meantime, the 6ix God is celebrating the success of “God’s Plan.” The lead single from Drake’s last album is now the most-streamed song in the history of Apple Music.

Chart Data revealed the achievement on Twitter, while also noting the second most-streamed song in the history of the streaming service also features Drake, Travis Scott’s “SICKO MODE” from the Astroworld album.

.@Drake's "God's Plan" is the #1 most streamed song in US Apple Music history.
— chart data (@chartdata) October 20, 2020

.@trvisXX's "SICKO MODE" is the 2nd most streamed song in US Apple Music history.
— chart data (@chartdata) October 20, 2020

While fans await on more music from Drake, he revealed that two special episodes of his show, Euphoria, which starred Zendaya, will air in December.

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@euphoria two special episodes first one on Dec 6th @hbomax @hbo

A post shared by champagnepapi (@champagnepapi) on Oct 19, 2020 at 6:03pm PDT

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Music Composer Kurt Farquhar Explains How The ‘Moesha’ Theme Song Was Created in 15 Minutes ...

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 15:16:35 GMT

Kurt Farquhar is a seven-time BMI award-winning music composer who is responsible for the music behind our favorite shows like Moesha, Girlfriends, Sister Sister, The Game, and the list goes on.

A classic show is always married to a theme song you can’t help but sing a long to, and that’s the case for Moesha.

Kurt was a special guest at The Gumbo‘s virtual televisionary dinner, and he described the creation of the theme song for Brandy’s hit sitcom as attendees ate and sipped on cocktails sponsored by Red Bull.

He said that he immediately began working on the Moesha theme song the same day the producers requested it. As he got started on the beat, the producers called back saying that Brandy wanted to co-write the song because she had some ideas.

Although he already started he still hashed it out to see what they can come up with. “I got this idea and she started singing ‘Mo-to the-E-to-the,” Moesha said in the studio and Kurt knew that she would like what he already started. “It was in the same key as the piece of music I was doing, it changed at the same place as my piece of music changed, it ended right at the moment as my piece of music,” he said, describing the deja vu moment they shared.

Brandy sang her version of the song as Kurt played his version and the rest was history.

one of the highlights from #thegumbodigitaldinner was @KurtFarquhar’s story about the creation of the moesha theme song with @4everBrandy that not too many know. we love an inside scoop. pic.twitter.com/V8m00pt9d2
— The Gumbo (@thegumbo) October 20, 2020

Kurt Farquhar and Brandy remixed the original theme song, but the elements stayed the same throughout each version.

Check out the video below with the theme song from all six seasons of Moesha and let us know which one was your favorite.

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Meek Mill Confirms New Album Release This Year

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 15:10:51 GMT

Fans of Meek Mill may be excited to hear that the rapper has intentions to release an album this year. The Philidelphia rap star has been in the headlines lately for everything but his music, so this can be an exciting time for his artistry.

Meek Mill’s last album, Championships was released in November of 2018 and had explosive singles including, “What’s Free,” “24/7,” “Going Bad,” and “Dangerous.” The rapper shared the news of his new album on Twitter after a fan tweeted, asking about the new album. “When the album dropping?” the fan wrote. “This year lol,” Meek replied.

Day one Meek fans may have already smelled the rapper cooking up a new album after Drake hopped in Meek Mill’s comments to hint that the Philadelphia rapper releases his single, “Pain Away” rumored to have features from A Boogie wit da Hoodie and Roddy Ricch. The line up already sounds exciting, we’ll keep you updated!

This year lol https://t.co/jPOsQFLiFN
— Meek Mill (@MeekMill) October 20, 2020

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Rick Ross and Tory Lanez Continue Social Media Back and Forth

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 15:08:14 GMT

If you have been keeping up with the media, then you are aware that rappers Rick Ross and Tory Lanez have been in a little back and forth, following the Meg thee Stallion shooting incident. After the shooting it was clear that Rick Ross supported Meg the Stallion, so much so that he began to throw jabs at Tory Lanez, calling him a little boy that needed to boss up. Ross also mentioned that Lanez’s decision to release his album on the day that the verdict was released for ex-officer Brett Hankison, one of the cops involved in killing Breonna Taylor, was a poor decision.

Although Tory’s back was against the wall, Tory responded to Rick Ross with this tweet. “I respect u 2 much as a black man to disrespect you in these times,however, I went out and marched 9 DAYS STRAIT for Breonna Taylor ..IN YOUR CITY …I didn’t see the “boss” out there once ?…also stop tagging your endorsements in post about her . It’s a poor decision.”

The back and forth didn’t stop there, Ross has been trolling Tory, tagging the singer in videos of smart cars saying that he will buy one for Tory. “Sounds like you buying time big fella,” Tory responded. “I live down the block from u. Just gimme da car already. And please don’t get no lemon pepper on my seats brotherman…”

Will Rick Ross really gift Tory with that smart car?

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Sauce Walka Announced That He Stopped Sipping Lean

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 14:03:52 GMT

With many rappers celebrating sipping lean in today’s Hip Hp music, it is more celebratory to acknowledge Sauce Walka’s decision to kick the deadly habit once and for all.

In a refreshing IG post, the Houston millennial slang spitter posted a photo of himself “after 12 Days of #Withdrawls PAINNN & #Detox”. Walka called the infamous promethazine concoction “liquid heroin”, which has taken out more than a few Hip Hop legends including Pimp C, DJ Screw, Mac Miller and too many others to mention.

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Day 1 after 12 Days of #Withdrawls PAINNN & #Detox … From 7 consist years of drinking #Liquid HERION aka “ DRANK “ nothin Less then a 6-10 ounces of daily direct consumption… Nearly a decade of Drug abuse & 5 million wasted dollars later!! THIS IS WHAT A RICH DOPEHEAD DUMMY LOOKS LIKE!!!! 30 million dollar former DopeFiend !! AN I WANT MY FANS HATERS & KINGZ TO KNOW AND BE INSPIRED! TODAY @sauce_walka102 is promethazine and codeine free for life and I hope yeah I’ll come with me ( FUCK DRANK ) #TheDrug but from a CULTURAL standpoint my weathering respects for it still stands!! SO I #DroppedTheBottle fuck kick a CUP … I almost DIED IN MY DAUGHTERS FACE Killing #Myself SOMETHING U PUNKS WILL NEVA DO TO ME !!!! This is WHAT A REAL MAN IS !! One who leads by his Triumphs and failures and shows that message transparently to the people that need!! This is a black KING this is a GOD .. to my people I love u

A post shared by Sauce Father (@sauce_walka102) on Oct 18, 2020 at 5:19pm PDT

Shout out to Sauce Walka for putting life first and making the changes necessary to live.

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SOURCE SPORTS: Shareef O’Neal Honors Kobe Bryant With a Second Tribute Tattoo

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 14:01:29 GMT

Shareef O’Neal continues to honor his former mentor Kobe Bryant with another tribute tattoo. The new second tattoo shown is the 2009 Kobe Bryant in beast mode celebrating waving his Lakers jersey.

GOOD SUNDAY START pic.twitter.com/hAevW2ru5N
— Shareef O’Neal (@SSJreef) October 18, 2020

In the days following Bryant’s passing, O’Neal reflected on what his former mentor meant to him.

“You always wanted me to be the best I could be,” Shareef wrote. “you always made sure I was happy, you put me before you put yourself and when we had our moments you made me feel like I was great.”

O’Neal received a text message from Bryant shortly before Bryant’s helicopter took off with Gigi Bryant and the seven others who tragically lost their lives in that helicopter accident.

Young O’Neal grew up idolizing his father, Shaquille O’Neal’s running mate and Bryant was instrumental in training O’Neal before he started playing college ball at LSU.

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H.E.R. Announces New Single to be Released on Wednesday

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 13:46:44 GMT

H.E.R. has announced new music, “Damage,” that is set to release soon on Wednesday, October 21. The new release will follow up a string of recent releases and is releasing ahead of her Saturday Night Live appearance this Saturday, October 24. Adele is set to host the episode of the show.

A few weeks ago, H.E.R. was in the studio with legendary singer, Brandy, but there is currently no details on when we will hear that offering.

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October 21. Pre-save #Damage now and hear my new song this Wednesday!

A post shared by H.E.R. (@hermusicofficial) on Oct 19, 2020 at 1:25pm PDT

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Netflix Releases Trailer for Chadwick Boseman’s Posthumous Release ‘Ma Rainey’s Black ...

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 12:47:37 GMT

Chadwick Boseman’s final film was Netflix’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom and the company released the trailer on Monday.

Boseman portrays a horn player named Levee for blues legend Ma Rainey, played by Viola Davis.

“I’m gonna get me a band and make me some records,” Boseman says in the trailer. “I know how to play real music. Not this jugband s–t.”

George C. Wolfe helmed the drama based on August Wilson’s 1982 Broadway play

Ma Rainey is one of the Oscar hopefuls the streaming giant is campaigning for in addition to Spike Lee’s, Da 5 Bloodz which also stars Chadwick Boseman.

Viewers will have the pleasure of streaming a presumably stunning performance by two beloved Black actors on November 18th and in select theaters.

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Pop Smoke’s Debut Album Reportedly Aims for No. 1 on Billboard Hot 200 Four Months After Release

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 12:08:12 GMT

Pop Smoke’s posthumous debut album is aiming for the top spot on the Billboard 200 charts four months after its release.

Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon secured 67,000 equivalent album units, jumping from No. 3 to No. 1.

Following its impressive debut, the 50 Cent executive produced project never fell below fourth place for the past few weeks.

21 Savage and Metro Boomin’s Savage Mode II came in second place with 66,000 units which is still a win. “this shit number one again @roddyricch I told you she want to fuck wit the Woo, but i ain’t gonna front that 21 Savage shit is slapping they both #1 to me right now,” 50 wrote on Instagram.

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this shit number one again @roddyricch I told you she want to fuck wit the Woo, but i ain’t gonna front that 21 Savage shit is slapping they both #1 to me right now. #bransoncognac #lecheminduroi

A post shared by 50 Cent (@50cent) on Oct 19, 2020 at 7:11am PDT

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Kobe Bryant’s 2008 Game 5 Jersey To Be Displayed At The Smithsonian’s National Museum Of ...

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 11:55:25 GMT

The late Kobe Bryant will have his 2008 game 5 NBA Finals jersey displayed at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) in Washington.

The display is in the Sports: Leveling the Playing Field gallery, and is next to a pair of LeBron James’ “Equality” shoes.

Bryant’s uniform serves as a testament to the resiliency of African Americans & expands the on the impact of black popular culture in sports. The 2008 NBA Finals Game 5 jersey worn by Kobe Bryant is now on display in our Sports Exhibition: https://t.co/62PfelFWUv #GameChangers
— Smithsonian NMAAHC (@NMAAHC) October 19, 2020

“Kobe’s contributions on and off the court are remarkable,” the museum’s interim director Spencer Crew said in a statement. “As a founding donor, he understood the significance of this museum to the nation and the world.

“After postponing the March installation due to COVID-19, we believe now is the perfect moment in history to honor his memory by placing his jersey on view.”

Bryant donated at least $1 million to the museum in 2008, and in 2017, he donated the jersey to the museum as well.

The museum’s website describes the exhibit as one rooted in the cultural impact athletes can have. “Sports: Leveling the Playing Field explores the contributions of athletes, both on and off the field. Some athletes have been symbolic figures of black ability, while others have taken their activism beyond the court to the courtroom, boardroom, and the newsroom.”

Bryant’s legacy will soon be immortalized with his introduction to the Basketball Hall Of Fame. His display at the Smithsonian will serve as a reminder of his excellence on and off the court.

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Happy 49th Birthday SnoopDogg! Here’s The Top 10 Videos Of His Career

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 11:50:51 GMT

On this day in Hip Hop history we celebrate the birth of one of Hip Hop and pop culture’s most recognizable icons, Snoop Doggy Dogg. Uncle Snoop was born Cordozar Calvin Broadus, Jr. in Long Beach, California in 1971. Since then he has risen to become a household name of Hip Hop. His image and style are synonymous with the West Coast and his name will forever stand among the Pantheon of legends who helped shaped Hip Hop culture.

Over his 22 (and counting) album career, Snoop has always played close attention to visuals. With every album, Snoop has put together a theatrical representation of is G-Funk sound. In honor of his born day we have compiled a list of the ten best videos from his 24 year career.

#10 “Vato” feat. B-Real – Tha Blue Carpet Treatment

In the streets of Los Angeles, African-Americans and Latinos have never really seen eye-to-eye. Due to the immense gang culture of this southern California metropolitan area, the two races have been at odds. With this video, Snoop and Chicano gangsta rapper B-Real come together to try and ease some of that racial tension. The video was directed by Phillip G. Atwell and premiered on BET on August 30, 2006. An animated version was also released in the following month.

#9 “Faden Away” as 7 Days of Funk – 7 Days of Funk

In 2013, Snoop Dogg amused the pseudonym Snoopzilla, teamed up with LA-based producer DāM-FunK, and became apart of the prolific synth heavy G-Funk group 7 Days of Funk. The video for “Faden Away” has a very retro feel, reminiscent of the years when funk monopolized the airwaves. Directed by Henry DeMaio, the visuals serve as a funkadelic time machine taking viewers back to a good old fashion house party and is a part of a series.

#8 “Drop It Like It’s Hot” feat. Pharrell Williams – R&G (Rhythm and Gangsta): The Masterpiece

Possible Snoop’s most popular song of the decade, “Drop It Like It’s Hot”‘s simplistic black and white color scheme perfectly compliment the tracks crisp production and smooth lyrics. Directed by Paul Hunter, the video consists of cameos from Terry Kennedy, Lauren London, Neptunes producer Chad Hugo, and Pusha T. In 2005 the video won a MOBO Award for Best Video.

#7 “High Wit Me” as 7 Days of Funk – 7 Days of Funk

As another release from 7 Days of Funk, “High With Me” takes a unique twist on the conventional music video. Instead of just directed a single video and relesing it per usual, the duo decided to hold a contest and let the fans decide visual would represent the track. The winner was a green screen psychedelic adventure featuring the groups two members. The runner up is also posted below.

#6 “Sexual Eruption” – Ego Trippin’

As the first single off of Snoop’s ninth album, “Sexual Eruption” (or the censored “Sexual Seduction”) introduced the world to a Snoop Dogg catered to the grown and sexy. This groovy soul inspired came with a video straight out of the Blaxploitation era. Directed by Melina and Steven Johnson, the video features Snoop in a Bootsy Collins-ish glam rock outfit holding a keytar while using a voice box, pure nostalgia.

#5 “Peaches N Cream” featuring Charlie Wilson – Bush

As the first single of his thirteenth album, Snoop again revisits his soulful funky roots and brings together another hit with former label-mate Uncle Charlie Wilson. Directed by Aramis Isreal and Hannah Lux Davis, the visuals are an evolution of his past retro style 70’s inspired videos. Using more CGI and green screen effects allow this video to be both a walk down memory lane and an example of what technology is capable of. Prior to the actual video release there was a computer animated lyric video directed by Wolf & Crow.

#4 “Who Am I (What’s My Name)”– Doggystyle

As Snoop Doggy Dogg’s debut single, “Who Am I” is simply a perfect introduction of one the games most promising rising stars at the time. Directed by Fab Five Freddy, this video was one of the earliest to utilize CGI as a main plot point. In the video, Snoop and his cohorts have the ability to animorph in a pack of dogs (with Snoop being a Doberman of course) running amok around Long Beach.

#3 “Beautiful” featuring Pharrell Williams and Charlie Wilson – Paid tha Cost to Be da Bo$$

Shot on location in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Directed by Chris Robinson and produced by Renata Chuquer, the video loosely tells the story of Snoop Dogg falling for a local woman while away on a vacation. This video could double as a travel video, showcasing some of Brazil’s most beautiful tourist attractions including: the Escadaria Selarón in the gorgeous Lapa district, a 1920’s mansion in Parque Lage, and the Copacabana.

#2 “Gin and Juice” – Doggystyle

Probably Snoop Dogg’s most popular single, “Gin and Juice”‘s music video perfectly embodies what it was like to party on the West Coast in the early 90’s. Directed by Dr. Dre, Calvin Caday, and Anita Sisaath (the producers of 2Pac’s “Dear Mama”), the video features a teenage Snoop throwing a wild party “cuz [his] mama ain’t home”. The video features Ricky Harris, Dr. Dre, Warren G, Nate Dogg, Daz Dillinger, Eddie Griffin, and a six year old Bow Wow.

#1 “Murder Was the Case” feat Daz Dillinger – Doggystyle

Since the beginning of his career, Snoop Dogg has been deeply interested with the dark supernatural world. He has starred in and produced multiple horror films and has alway keep a tone of evil quietly brewing beneath the majority of his work. The start of that trend came with the release of “Murder was the Case” in 1994. The song and video both spin the tale of Snoop Dogg being shot down in a drive-by and coming back to life after making a deal with the devil. As a part of this bargain, Snoop becomes a famous rapper but eventually turns his back on Satan, landing him in prison for not holding his end of the promise. The single also inspired a short film directed by Dr. Dre and Fab Five Freddy going into full detail about the story narrated in the single.

From everyone here at The Source Magazine and TheSource.com, Happy C-Day Uncle Snoop. May you see many more years of ridiculous success, fame, and fortune.

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Congressional Black Caucus Says Trump Denied to Meet With Them About Plan Similar to Ice ...

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 11:37:36 GMT

Ice Cube is famously known as one of the founding members of the rap group, NWA, and brought you films like Friday and The Barbershop which became staples in the Black community.

Which is why many of his fans were hurt when Donald Trump’s advisor thanked the rapper/actor for helping Trump with his Platinum Plan. “Shoutout to @icecube for his willingness to step up and work with @realDonaldTrump Administration to help develop the #PlatinumPlan,” Katrina Pierson wrote. “Leaders gonna lead, haters gonna hate. Thank you for leading!”

Cube was the subject of an unforeseen “this you?” moment when Black Twitter resurfaced his 2016 tweet vowing to never endorse Trump.

He defended his actions of in a series of tweets clarifying that they simply had a conversation, that Joe Biden was also invited to but declined. But according to this new report from The Grio, Trump didn’t have a Black agenda until a few weeks from the election.

Jackson Lee said members of the Congressional Black Caucus have made several attempts to meet with Trump to discuss Black America with a 125-page proposal that is similar to the platinum plan.

“The President of the United States has never in his four years of being there been an advocate or help anything get accomplished and he will not get anything accomplished this time,” says Jackson Lee. “Everything that was in the Platinum Plan has already been proposed by the Congressional Black Caucus and Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.”

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