Category: kendrick lamar

Cardi B, Latto, Kendrick Lamar & More Bring Holiday Joy To Their Communities

Christmas time is approaching, and the rap community is embracing the spirit of giving by delivering gifts and spreading holiday cheer. Artists like Kendrick Lamar and Cardi B give back to their communities just in time for the holidays.

Cardi B – ‘Toys for Tots’

Cardi B was spotted at a toy drive in New York on Dec. 19. The the Bronx rapper attended the Toys For Tots event where she donated toys and other gifts to needy families, spreading the holiday spirit. 

The Bronx native also took pictures with the families she was donating to, receiving praise from fans on social media for being a great role model and bringing joy to the children during the festive season. Users on Twitter (X) reacted to Cardi’s generous acts. 

One user named @CardiBCaviar commented, “WE NEED MORE GREAT ROLE MODELS LIKE CARDI B ! THANK YOU CARDI,” while one other named @troublewoman215 commented, “Our mother is out here spreading the holiday spirit-I hope all the children are happy.”

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Latto – Christmas In Clayco

At her third annual Christmas In Clayco event on Saturday, Dec. 16, Latto demonstrated her commitment to philanthropy by doubling her contributions, donating over $500,000 in gifts from various brands she collaborates with. The Atlanta-based rapper partnered with brands such as UGG, Savage x Fenty, Apple, Wingstop, and more to provide gifts for those in need, doubling her contribution from the previous year.

The event, presented by her Win Some Give Some foundation, aims to support at-risk youth by providing resources and self-esteem support for equal opportunity and success. This gesture comes just days before Latto Day on Dec.18, following the proclamation of the first official Latto Day in Clayco County. District 1 Commissioner Dr. Alieka Anderson shared in a statement:

“We are ecstatic to bring back Christmas in Clayton for the third time. This event allows us to give back to Clayton County residents and children just in time for the holidays. Words cannot express how amazing it is to have Latto return to Clayton County to help spread some holiday cheer throughout our community. Her generosity is sincerely appreciated for our children and our community.”

REFORM Alliance Partners With The Brooklyn Nets

In addition to individual efforts, REFORM Alliance, alongside TV personality Lala Anthony, rappers Cordae, Meek Mill, and others, will partner with the Brooklyn Nets to host women affected by the justice system and their children at an NBA game. 

The event will occur on Dec. 22 during the Brooklyn Nets vs. Denver Nuggets matchup, where the women and their families will be honored with in-game presentations. The event will aim to unite and uplift families deeply impacted by the criminal justice system, featuring exclusive pre-game activities, opening remarks from the hosts, merchandise giveaways, and a special visit to center court.

Kendrick Lamar For The Kids

Kendrick Lamar, known for his philanthropy and commitment to his hometown of Compton, hosted a community event in Compton, CA. Held at Enterprise Park on Dec. 17, the annual holiday event aimed to uplift the spirits of the local community, particularly the children who face various challenges. 

The “HUMBLE” rapper, along with Interscope Records co-founder Jimmy Iovine and rapper Jay Worthy, provided toys and gifts to ensure that every child in Compton had a special holiday season. Supporters on Instagram took to the comment section to show gratitude towards the rapper. 

One user (@_.famousstay) stated, “I really share a birthday w a walking goat. It’s hard cause every song he makes resonates W me so bad.” Another user (@dr_dickeyel_2017) stated: You are awesome. You really care for your people and community. A real standup guy and GOAT.”

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More News

In November 2023, Kendrick Lamar and his business partner ventured into the tech industry with tech company pgLang, collaborating with technology firm Light. Together, they’ve created the much-anticipated Light Phone II, a minimalist device that offers a less distracting alternative to conventional smartphones. 

In other news with Cardi B, the “Bongos” rapper recently had a sit-down with icon Patti LaBelle. The two larger-than-life personalities are teaming up again this holiday season for a festive project involving Cardi’s Whipshots and Patti’s famous pies. 

Quavo Gives Back

In the spirit of giving, Quavo, a member of the Migos, collaborated with the Legends brand to host the fifth annual charity football game, Huncho Day. The game, featuring various celebrities, raised funds for the Rocket Foundation, dedicated to the memory of Takeoff, another member of the Migos who passed away in November 2022. 

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Unveiling the Most Iconic Hip-Hop Album Covers: N.W.A., Dr. Dre, 2 Live Crew & More

SOHH explores the most iconic hip-hop album covers, this lineup features memorable artworks like N.W.A.’s Straight Outta Compton, Dr. Dre’s The Chronic, and Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly. These covers encapsulate the essence of their respective albums and stand as cultural landmarks within the hip-hop genre.

N.W.A. – ‘Straight Outta Compton’

NWA was a rap group consisting of Ice Cube, Eazy-E, DJ Yella, MC Ren, The D.O.C., Arabian Prince, and DJ Speed. 

The conglomerate was formed in 1987 when hip-hop and rap were used to express frustrations with government and politics. The angle of the photograph is lowered while all members of NWA stare down into the frame. Eazy E is seen holding a pistol, possibly symbolizing how they see themselves compared to the perspective of a cop.

 The August 8, 1988, album included iconic songs such as “Gangsta, Gangsta,” “Dope Man(Remix),” “F*** Tha Police,” and “Straight Outta Compton” to name a few. 

According to CNN, “The photograph is considered one of the most provocative ever to grace an album cover: six guys staring toward the ground, one pointing a handgun. It was the cover art for Straight Outta Compton, the pioneering debut album by N.W.A., that revolutionized gangsta rap and redefined hip hop.

Dr. Dre’s ‘The Chronic’

Although Dr. Dre got his name out there with NWA, he got his official start with World Class Wreckin’ Crew. The Chronic was a tribute to the street life of Compton, California. 

Most importantly, the December 15 1992 album cover, which pays homage to the “Zig Zag Rolling Papers.” The renowned rolling paper brand played a special part in California street life and cinema storytelling. 

One of the more well-known references can be seen in the movie “The Wood.” Boo ( who is portrayed by Antwon Tanner) says to his homeboy Stacey ( who is portrayed by DeAndre Bonds) “Ayo pass that sh** back this way.” Stacey replies, “ F*** you boy, you aint gettin’ no zig zag, you aint gettin’ no drig drag.”

The Fugees – ‘The Score’

Wyclef Jean, Lauryn Hill, and Pras were the three members to make up The Fugees. 

The name comes from the shortened word ‘refugees.’ The group rose to prominence in the mid-1990s with their unique blends of reggae, R&B, hip hop, and funk. 

The cover of the group’s most popular album, The Score, is a minimalistic style photograph that pictures all three members on an intense black background, with the faces of the trio peeking through the blackness of it all. Simultaneously, their faces are highlighted with a golden light shining upon them all. 

The words “The Fugees” are written in a burnt yellow, car wash font. The accent colors of gold and burnt yellow could possibly symbolize the way the words and beats make listeners feel when they hear their music.

Reunited And It Feels So Good

The Fugees’ highly anticipated reunion occurred at the 2023 Roots Picnic, leaving fans thrilled and nostalgic. Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, and Pras Michel met for an exceptional performance during Lauryn Hill’s solo headlining set at Philadelphia’s The Mann Center on June 3, 2023.

Kendrick Lamar ‘To Pimp A Butterfly’

One of Lamar’s most highly anticipated albums, How To Pimp A Butterfly was released on March 15,  2015. 

The album was one of Kendrick’s highlights of his career. The album’s black and white cover details an all black and white cover details a deceased, white man wearing a suit, with a gavel in his hand, insinuating that he is a judge. Over him stands 2 black boys, one of whom seems to be a younger, Kendrick Lamar, and a host of black men and women, with the White House in the background. 

Similarly to NWA’s album cover, Lamar’s album cover is symbolic of the stance Black families took against the American Justice System, the long history of injustice for African Americans, and the overrepresentation in the prison system. 

It is also imperative to mention this album was released during the presidential term of Obama, America’s first Black President,  which gives even more reason as to why the white judge is dead.

Kanye West ‘Graduation’

This iconic album was the project that made fans everywhere fall in love with West’s artistry. 

Graduation was released on September 11, 2007. The cover art had always been admired by listeners alike. The cover pictures a vibrant sunset sky with shades of violets, yellow, and a hint of midnight blue. The angle of the lens seems to be zoomed out with a spectacle from outer space. 

In the sunset lies a flying teddy bear ( similar to West’s Dropout Bear), with a graduation cap which is the foundation for his institution.

The institution, which seems to be celebrating graduation is surrounded by abstract colors, rockets, and explosions.  In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, album cover designer, Takashi Murakami( often referred to as the Warhol of Japan), stated:

“The cover is based on Kanye’s theme of student life. School. It’s a place of dreams, of righteousness, a place to have fun. It’s also occasionally a place where you experience the rigid dogma of the human race.”

Kanye West Is Back

Kanye West returned to the music scene with the highly anticipated release of new music. The album marked his first release since Donda 2 dropped in February 2022.

2 Live Crew “As Nasty As They Wanna Be”

Members Fresh Kid Ice, Uncle Luke, Mr. Mixx, Amazing V., and Verb were the members to make up the iconic 2 Live Crew. 

The group’s musical influence helped push and test the boundaries of hip-hop during the era, which still stands strong today. The February 7, 1989, album’s cover art displays the group at the beach, and standing over them are four nearly nude women. 

The cover of the album was seen as controversial, in which the 2 Live Crew explored sexual themes. The legal battles Uncle Luke and the crew faced made major leeway in how artists chose to rap, dance, and dress in the hip-hop industry. 

Uncle Luke Speaks Out Against HH50

Uncle Luke expressed frustration with the lack of recognition for Florida artists in the music industry on hip hop’s 50th anniversary. The Miami rapper addressed the industry’s long-standing disregard for Florida hip-hop.

A Rewind In Time

Speaking of iconic, some songs have become timeless sources of inspiration for newer artists. From Khia’s explicit anthem “My Neck My Back” to Aaliyah’s mesmerizing “One In A Million,” these classic tracks continue influencing and shaping the rap scene.

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Kendrick Lamar & Baby Keem Bring Out Tyler, The Creator At ‘Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival’

Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem took the stage at the highly anticipated Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival in Los Angeles over the weekend. They had a surprise in store for the crowd. Kendrick brought out his fellow rapper and cousin, Baby Keem, and together, they brought the house down by bringing out Tyler, The Creator, and more.

Kendrick & Baby Keem Bring Out Tyler, The Creator

​​The Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival took place in Los Angeles on November 11 and November 12, drawing some of the most prominent names in the hip-hop industry. 

Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem treated fans to their joint track “The Hillbillies” during their performance, and the energy intensified when Tyler, The Creator made his appearance on stage. Tyler danced along as the two rappers delivered their verses, creating an electric atmosphere that had the crowd on their feet. 

However, the reaction to the performance was mixed. Some fans used social media to express their disappointment with the lackluster crowd. 

One user on Twitter (X) commented, “@CJTHEDJAY: Whole crowd looks like they’re waiting in line at the DMV,” while another user named @Enthusiatix wrote, “That crowd is not moving, hip hop is in a dark place.”

SZA Takes Over The Stage

Kendrick Lamar, Baby Keem, and Tyler, The Creator were not the only highlights of the Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival. The event brought together a star-studded lineup, including performances from SZA, Offset, Lil Yachty, and more.

SZA wowed the audience with her soulful vocals, delivering her verse on the recent hit song “Rich Baby Daddy,” which was on Drake’s latest album For All The Dogs, along with Sexyy Red. She also treated fans to popular tracks like “Good Days” and “Ghost In The Machine,” accompanied by her backup dancers.

Offset Brings Out Lil Yachty

Atlanta rapper Offset showcased his catalog of hits, including the Migos’ 2016 smash “Bad & Boujee,” as well as tracks from his latest album, Set It Off. Lil Yachty joined him on stage to perform their collaboration “Peekaboo,” and Yachty even previewed some new music for the energetic crowd.

Ice Spice’s Electrifying Performance 

Bronx rapper Ice Spice also made her mark with electrifying performances of her hits like “Munch” and “Deli.” The Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival also featured incredible sets from Jaden & Willow Smith, Pink Pantheress, Teezo Touchdown, Earl Sweatshirt, Kali Uchis, and more.

Updated By: Chris Samuel (11/14/23 at 3:16 pm)

Amazon Music To Exclusively Live Stream Tyler The Creator’s ‘Camp Flog Gnaw’

Camp Flog Gnaw, the music festival curated by Tyler The Creator, is making a grand return. The highly anticipated two-day festival will be exclusively live-streamed on Amazon Music and Twitch, offering fans around the world a chance to experience the event.

Camp Flog Gnaw x Amazon Music x Twitch

It’s official. Tyler The Creator’s Camp Flog Gnaw will be exclusively live-streamed on Amazon Music and Twitch.

Returning for the first time since 2019, Camp Flog Gnaw promises a star-studded lineup and unforgettable performances at the Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California. The highly anticipated two-day festival will take place on Saturday, November 11, and Sunday, November 12.

The upcoming highly-anticipated festival will reach a broader audience through an exclusive live stream on Amazon Music and Twitch. This collaboration with Amazon Music ensures that fans who can’t attend the festival physically won’t miss out on the experience, also with the added convenience of streaming on Prime Video.

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What To Expect

During the live stream, viewers can expect an impressive array of artists to grace the stage. On Saturday, Nov. 11, the lineup includes “The Hillbillies,” a special collaboration between Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem. 

Tyler The Creator will also captivate the audience with his signature style and infectious energy. Other notable performers like Kali Uchis and Ice Spice will contribute to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. The excitement continues on Sunday, Nov. 12, with performances by SZA, Earl Sweatshirt, Lil Yachty, PinkPantheress, and Maxo Kream, among others.

Doors will open at noon on both Saturday and Sunday, allowing festival-goers to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Camp Flog Gnaw.

Updated By: Yasmine Duhé (11/7/23 at 4:28 pm)

Tyler the Creator’s ‘Camp Flog Gnaw’ Returns To Los Angeles

Get ready for the highly anticipated return of Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival, presented by Tyler, the Creator. After a hiatus due to the pandemic, this Los Angeles music festival is back and better than ever. 

Tyler the Creator Presents ‘Camp Flog Gnaw’

Taking place at Dodger Stadium on Nov. 11-12, the Camp Flog Gnaw festival will feature an incredible lineup, including amazing headliners like Tyler, the Creator, R&B sensation SZA, and dynamic duo Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem, also known as “The Hillbillies.” 

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Camp Flog Gnaw has quickly become a must-attend event for music lovers, and its return is met with excitement from fans worldwide. Tyler The Creator fans have eagerly awaited the revival of Camp Flog Gnaw, as the festival has been absent for the past few years. 

Odd Future Carnival Debut

What was initially known as the Odd Future Carnival debuted in 2012, and became an annual event until it went on hiatus in 2020 due to the pandemic. The following year, the festival did not occur due to Tyler’s busy touring schedule. 

However, the artist recently teased the return of Flog Gnaw in June, with a surprise cameo in the music video for “The Hillbillies” by Baby Keem and Lamar. The news of the festival’s comeback has generated immense excitement among fans. 

Tickets for the 2023 edition of Camp Flog Gnaw were in high demand, as they quickly sold out. The festival’s loyal fanbase expressed disappointment and frustration on social media platforms. 

Twitter user (@TyraOddness) tweeted, “I hate y’all HOW ITS SOLD OUT?” While another disappointed fan (@raptalksk) exclaimed, “Bruh already wtf??” The event’s excitement is palpable, with fans eagerly counting down the days until November.

‘RapCaviar’

In other music news, Tyler The Creator and Pharrell Williams jointly previewed a trailer for the upcoming rap docuseries, RapCaviar Presents. The series, set to air on Hulu, will provide an artist’s perspective on the music industry and its cultural impact.

Lil Uzi Vert & More To Headline IYKYK Festival

Meanwhile, festival enthusiasts in Arizona can look forward to the inaugural IYKYK Music Festival, which promises a remarkable hip-hop experience. The festival aims to celebrate hip-hop culture through music, art, fashion, and more, featuring chart-topping artists such as Lil Uzi Vert, Metro Boomin, Denzel Curry, and Jeleel.

Originally Written by: Catherine Dallum

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A Night To Remember At ONE Musicfest: Kendrick Lamar Delights Superfan With Backstage Meet & Autograph

Kendrick Lamar created a magical moment for a dedicated fan during his recent electrifying performance at the ONE Musicfest in Atlanta. This fervent supporter, who had secured a coveted center stage spot, wholeheartedly rapped along to every lyric, capturing the Grammy-winning artist’s attention and admiration.  A True Stan Kendrick Lamar created a special moment for […]

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Kendrick Lamar Teams Up with Tech Company To Create Minimalist Cell Phone

Kendrick Lamar and his business partner are venturing into the tech industry with tech company pgLang, collaborating with technology firm Light. Together, they’ve created the much-anticipated Light Phone II, a minimalist device that offers a less distracting alternative to conventional smartphones.  The Light Phone II Kendrick Lamar and his business partner, Dave Free, have embarked […]

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Janet Jackson Brings Out J. Cole At The Star-Studded 2023 One Music Festival Mega-Weekend

The 2023 One Music Festival brought the crowd out in Atlanta as music legends and surprise guests took over the stage. From the iconic Janet Jackson surprising fans with J. Cole to Kendrick Lamar’s unique set, the festival showcased the best of hip-hop and rap, paying tribute to the genre’s 50 years of influence in […]

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Mike Amiri: The Mastermind Behind The Fusion Of Rockstar & Hip-Hop Fashion 

Mike Amiri, an American fashion designer known for his iconic hand-crafted designer clothing pieces, including the trendy Amiri Jeans, has taken the fashion world by storm. From dressing rock and hip-hop stars to creating a luxury brand that resonates with the Gen Z generation, Amiri’s unique style and influence have garnered attention from celebrities and […]

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Janet Jackson, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Thee Stallion & More To Perform At The 2023 ONE MusicFest + Opulent Ticket Packages

The highly anticipated ONE MusicFest has announced its impressive lineup of renowned artists, including Janet Jackson, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Thee Stallion, and more. The festival will offer a range of ticket packages to cater to different preferences and budgets. Among them is the opulent “Titanium Package,” priced at $5500, which grants exclusive privileges and a […]

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Former Kendrick Lamar Collaborator Lul G Sentenced To 21 Years

Former Kendrick Lamar collaborator Lul G has been sentenced to 21 years for voluntary manslaughter. By accepting a plea deal, the California rap group SOB X RBE member avoided a potential first-degree murder charge and a maximum sentence of 50 years.  The Legal Proceedings & Sentencing California rap group SOB X RBE member Lul G […]

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