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THE DIGITAL DEN #4
🎤 Welcome to The Digital Den - Your Weekly Hip-Hop Herald 🎤
THE DIGITAL DEN & M.Matrix
April 24, 2024
🎤🔥 Hip-hop is celebrating its 50th anniversary throughout 2023, which seemed impossible when the genre was criticized as a fad early on. In 2017, Forbes reported that hip-hop surpassed rock as the most popular genre in America for the first time and continues to dominate pop culture. But where would hip-hop be without women? Looking at the successes of rising female MCs today, some artists stand out, including Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, Tierra Whack, Latto, Rapsody, Doechii, and Little Simz, to name a few. Although these artists have their styles, one thing they have in common is how they stand on the shoulders of women who came before them. Let's look at 🔍 some of the trailblazing women in hip-hop who helped shape the genre.
1. MC Sha-Rock 👑: Known as the "mother of the mic" and a member of Sugar Hill's Funky 4 + 1, Sha-Rock and her group became the first hip-hop collective to appear on national TV 📺.
2. Queen Latifah 👸: A voice for the voiceless, Latifah called out issues affecting women in her Grammy Award-winning single "U.N.I.T.Y.". She showed that female rappers can run with men and advocated for change and respect 💪.
3. MC Lyte 💃: The first female solo MC to release a full-length album, MC Lyte broke records and earned a Grammy nomination. She started a lot of first accolades for other female rappers to follow 🏆.
4. Missy Elliott 🎶: An otherworldly artist, Missy Elliott's insane production style, innate songwriting, and creative music videos set her apart. She became the first female MC to be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 🌟.
5. Lil' Kim 🔥: Lil' Kim challenged the image of female rappers, showcasing women's freedom and liberation. She fused high-fashion with hip-hop and paved the way for today's female rappers to express their sensuality and style 👑👗.
These women, along with many others, have paved the way for the rising generation of female MCs and continue to shape the genre of hip-hop.
The article discusses 25 great albums from artists who are not typically regarded as "great" in their overall careers. Some highlights include:
• 🎶 Hootie & the Blowfish's "Cracked Rear View" (1994), which was their breakout album featuring hits like "Hold My Hand" and "Let Her Cry."
• 🎵 Chumbawamba's "Tubthumper" (1997) was their commercial breakthrough and featured the massively popular single "Tubthumping."
• 👩🎤 Miley Cyrus's "Bangerz" (2013) was a twerk-happy, star-making record that showcased her collaborations with rap producers and moments of heart.
• 🎤 Sinéad O'Connor's "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" (1990) was a folk-ballad rock record that showcased her powerful songwriting and distinct voice.
• 🤘 Limp Bizkit's "Significant Other" (1999) captured the essence of the rap-rock and nu-metal subgenres, featuring catchy hooks and powerful tracks like "Break Stuff."
• 🌸 Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream" (2010) produced chart-topping singles like "Firework" and "California Gurls," but her subsequent albums failed to reach the same level of success.
• 🔫 50 Cent's "Get Rich or Die Tryin'" (2003) brought gangster rap swagger back to the mainstream, but his subsequent releases failed to live up to this debut.
• 🎤 Lupe Fiasco's "Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor" (2006) showcased his lyrical prowess and unique style, but his later albums received mixed reviews.
• 🌈 The Black Eyed Peas' "Behind the Front" (1998) was their debut album featuring hip-hop tracks that highlighted their skills before they transitioned to pop.
• 🎸 Weezer's "The Blue Album" (1994) is regarded as their best work, featuring hits like "Buddy Holly" and establishing their distinctive sound.
• ⛵ Christopher Cross's self-titled debut album (1979) achieved massive success with hits like "Sailing," but he struggled to replicate that success in his later career.
• 💫 Mandy Moore's "Amanda Leigh" (2009) marked her artistic emergence as a singer-songwriter, showcasing her talent and versatility.
Overall, while these artists may not have sustained success, they each produced at least one standout album in their careers.
Legendary rap group 🎤 A Tribe Called Quest has been announced as one of the inductees for the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class. This comes as a long-awaited recognition for the group, who are widely regarded as one of the greatest rap groups of all time. They will join the likes of Mary J. Blige, Kool and The Gang, and Cher in this year's class. The induction ceremony will take place on Oct. 19 in Cleveland. A Tribe Called Quest, known for their unique fusion of hip-hop and jazz, released several critically acclaimed albums in the 1990s before tragically losing member Phife Dawg in 2016. This is their third time on the ballot, having been nominated in 2022 and 2023 as well. They now join a growing list of rappers to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. 🎉🏆
Drake, the Canadian actor, producer, and rapper, has a net worth of $250 million, making him one of the highest-paid entertainers in the world. Here are some highlights from his career and earnings:
💰 Drake began his career as an actor on the Canadian TV series "Degrassi: The Next Generation," but it was his music that brought him worldwide fame.
🎵 He has released several successful albums and singles, with his debut album, "Thank Me Later," reaching number one on the hip-hop charts in 2010.
💸 Drake has earned over $430 million in his career before taxes and lifestyle costs.
💰 In recent years, he has earned between $40 million and $95 million annually, with his earnings peaking at $95 million in 2017.
🌎 In May 2022, Universal Music Group confirmed that they re-signed Drake to a long-term worldwide partnership, with some estimating the value of the deal at $400 million.
🏰 Drake owns several luxurious properties, including the YOLO Estate in Hidden Hills, California, a Toronto mansion, and a $90 million Beverly Hills mansion.
✈️ He also owns a private jet, which he dubbed "Air Drake," and has endorsed major brands such as Sprite, Burger King, and Nike.
💼 Drake has been involved in various business ventures, including the launch of his own record label, OVO Sound, and his own brand of whiskey called Virginia Black.
Overall, Drake's success in music, touring, and business ventures has contributed to his substantial net worth and continued status as one of the most influential figures in the music industry. 🌟
In a recent Instagram video, rapper Cam'ron discussed his past beefs with Nas and 50 Cent and why he believes they made more sense than the current rap wars. 👊🔥 Cam'ron explained that when Nas dissed him, it didn't make sense because he admired Nas as an artist and thought they had no reason to have a problem. But when he signed with Roc-A-Fella and felt his back was against the wall, he decided to respond. 🎤💥 Similarly, Cam'ron spoke about his beef with 50 Cent, explaining that it started when 50 said Koch Entertainment was the graveyard for a lot of rappers and that led to an argument between them. However, Cam'ron emphasized that all of these beefs were just music and that he and 50 Cent even spoke and laughed about it afterward. 😄💯 Cam'ron went on to express his confusion over the current rap wars, questioning what they're even about and pointing out that all the rappers involved are already rich. 🤔💰
The article highlights several 🔥 up-and-coming artists to watch in 2024. Here are some highlights:
• Anycia: A rapper from Atlanta who has gained popularity and endorsements from artists like Drake, J. Cole, and Kevin Durant. 🎤💥
• Maiya The Don: A Brooklyn rapper with sharp lyricism and a mixtape that has garnered acclaim from artists like Lil' Kim, Ty Dolla $ign, and Mariah Carey. 🎶🔥
• Cash Cobain: A rising star in the world of hip-hop known for his raw talent and infectious energy. 💯🔥
• Inayah: An artist who transitioned from composing jingles to crafting her own captivating songs, earning national attention. 🎵💫
• Chow Lee: An up-and-coming rapper from New York who offers a contemporary interpretation of Drill and encapsulates the city's distinctive style. 🗽🔥
• Chxrry22: A recent signee to XO Records who showcases vulnerability and empowerment through her music. 🍒💪
• Leon Thomas: An actor, producer, and Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter who has worked with artists like Ariana Grande, Snoh Aalegra, and Kodak Black. 🎤✨
• Mar: A rising star in the world of Latin pop music who combines cultural influences and personal experiences in her music. 🎶🌟
• Circle The Earth: An eclectic and multicultural rock band known for their unique blend of rock, pop, soul, hip-hop, and emo influences. 🎸🌍
• G Perico: A West Coast rapper known for his gangsta rap music and the distinctive sounds of early-'90s West Coast G-funk. 🌴🔊
• Shannon K: A singer whose debut single received widespread acclaim and earned her recognition in Billboard, Rolling Stone, Elle, and Harpers Bazaar. 🎶📰
• Z3LLA: A dynamic female artist and DJ duo known for their multicultural sound and experience. 🎧🌎
• Chef Sean: A versatile songwriter, producer, and rapper known for his trap rock music. 🍳🎸
• Bôbo: A songwriter, rapper, and actor known for his exceptional storytelling prowess. 🎤📖
• UnLearn The World: An underground hip-hop artist known for his powerful lyrics and thought-provoking storytelling. 🎶🌍
• Juice The Mac: An Oklahoma rapper known for his positive energy and winning mindset. 🎤💪
• King Matta: A rising star in the hip-hop genre known for his hit singles and dedication to his craft. 👑🎶
• Willie J The Artist: A captivating performer known for his powerful vocals and diverse musical influences. 🎤🌟
• Heto The Great: An artist from South Central known for his vivid tales of street life and personal struggles. 🏙️🎤
• No Childhood: A hip-hop artist known for his raw lyricism and infectious beats. 🎶🎤
These artists represent a diverse range of musical genres and styles, and they are poised to make a lasting impact on the music industry in the coming years. 🎵🔥
In the midst of the Rap Civil War, Drake finds himself facing off against multiple rappers seeking his elimination. The main opponent in this battle is Kendrick Lamar, but others have also joined forces against Drake, including Rick Ross, A$AP Rocky, The Weeknd, and Kanye West. 💣
The feud between Drake and Rick Ross began when Ross filmed himself playing Kendrick's verse on "Like That," despite their past collaborations. The disagreement escalated on social media, with shots being exchanged about 💰, 🏠, 👀, and alleged 💉 surgeries.
The conflict with Metro Boomin started when the producer excluded Drake from his song "Trance," and later criticized award shows honoring Drake's album over his own. Drake called out Metro on his track "Push Ups," mocking him and highlighting his focus on production. 🎹
The rivalry between Drake and Kendrick Lamar dates back to Kendrick's verse on "Control," where he named Drake among his targets. The two have since exchanged jabs on various tracks. 🔥
The Weeknd turned against Drake on "All To Myself," boasting about never signing with OVO and taking shots at Drake's manager. A$AP Rocky joined the battle after Drake seemed to diss Rihanna, who was dating Rocky at the time. 💔
Future, who once had a close partnership with Drake, also joined Kendrick's alliance on "We Don't Trust You." Lastly, Kanye West reignited his feud with Drake by joining forces with Kendrick and Metro on the remix of "Like That," throwing darts at Drake and J. Cole. ⚔️
Overall, Drake is now facing a large number of opponents in the Rap Civil War, and it remains to be seen how the conflict will unfold. 🎤💥
🎵 Hip hop duo Eric B. & Rakim have 👏 expressed their support for the inclusive 🏆 2024 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees, despite not making the cut themselves. The duo congratulated the artists who will be inducted this year, including Mary J. Blige, Cher, and A Tribe Called Quest, highlighting the institution's inclusivity. Eric B. & Rakim hope to be inducted in the future and encouraged their fans to keep voting. The duo became famous during rap's golden age in the '80s and '90s, releasing four successful albums. They were previously nominated for the Hall of Fame in 2012 and are likely to receive another nomination in the future. Other notable artists who did not make the cut this year include Mariah Carey, Oasis, and Sade. 🎤✨
In a recent interview, South African hip-hop artist Touchline Truth emphasized the importance of gatekeeping in the industry, stating that it upholds the standards of music consumption. He explained that gatekeeping ensures that only the best songs are played on radio, allowing the best artists to thrive while those who are not as skilled are encouraged to improve. However, Touchline later clarified on Twitter that he actually meant to use the term "quality control" instead of gatekeeping. He acknowledged that while blocking off opportunities exists, he believes that gifted and persistent artists will still be able to succeed. Touchline's comments came after up-and-coming artist Luna Florentino corrected him and highlighted the abuse of power and bias that can occur in the industry. The discussion around gatekeeping versus quality control creates an interesting conversation about how to maintain excellence in the South African hip-hop scene. 🔥🎵🔒🌟🎤😎
Erykah Badu's daughter, Puma Curry, recently covered Keyshia Cole's song "Love" on Instagram Live, showcasing her impressive singing talents. Fans were quick to praise Puma for her rendition, even suggesting that she sang the song better than the original artist. 👏🎤 Puma, who has already gained a substantial social media following, has also covered Billie Eilish's "Listen Before I Go" and received approval from her famous mother and thousands of others. 🎶✨ With parents as talented as Badu and The D.O.C., it's no surprise that Puma has inherited her mother's singing chops. 🎵🔥 While it's unclear if Puma has plans to release any original music, her covers are definitely earning her recognition. 🌟 In addition to her musical endeavors, Puma has also made headlines recently for her budding romance with Hunxho, a relationship that has garnered attention due to their significant age difference. 💑💖
🎉 Nas, the legendary hip-hop artist, is teasing another possible collaboration album with DJ Premier to celebrate the 30th anniversary of his groundbreaking album Illmatic. Nas shared a post on Instagram with photos of him and DJ Premier in the '90s and now, captioned with "Then v.s Now. What if…" 🤔 This has sparked speculation among fans that their long-awaited collab album might finally be released. Nas and DJ Premier have been teasing this collaboration since 2007, but nothing has materialized yet. However, Nas recently hinted at the possibility of a DJ Premier joint project in his latest album, King's Disease III. 🎶 Fans are eagerly waiting for this collaboration and hoping that it will become a reality. 😍🙏
🎵 AcitoMusic, a talented hip-hop artist, has been named Hip Hop's Rookie of the Year in 2024! 🏆 Hailing from Philadelphia and raised in Delaware, AcitoMusic has gained appreciation for his innovative and captivating music. He composes, records, and produces his own tracks, showcasing his talent and unique style. Some highlights from the article include:
• AcitoMusic's music is characterized by intriguing music presentations and well-versed lyricism. 🎶
• He constantly experiments with his creations, resulting in soundtracks that are different from others in the industry. 🎤💥
• One of his most appreciated tracks is 'How Do You Hustle', accompanied by an energetic and buzz-worthy music video. 🎥🔥
• AcitoMusic's diverse range of music helps him build a fanbase more efficiently. 🌟📈
• He has performed for well-known artists such as KUR and Sukihana, and has headlined his own show named 'Lovers & Friends'. 🎤🔥
• His excellent pieces of music can be found on music streaming platforms such as Spotify, SoundCloud, Apple Music, and YouTube. 🎧📲
Overall, AcitoMusic is making a significant impact on the hip-hop music industry with his exemplary musical works. 🎵🔥
The article discusses the 15 best music producers of all time who have made significant contributions to the music industry. These producers are praised for their ability to translate an artist's creative vision into a cohesive and compelling sonic experience. 🔥💯🎵
Some highlights from the article include:
• George Martin, often referred to as the "Fifth Beatle," who played a crucial role in shaping The Beatles' sound and guiding their artistic development. 🎸🎶
• Quincy Jones, a prolific producer who has worked with some of the biggest names in music history, including Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and Aretha Franklin. 🕺🎹🎤
• Dr. Dre, an influential figure in the history of hip-hop music who popularized West Coast hip-hop and shaped the sound of modern rap music. 🎧🔥🎤
• Phil Spector, known for his "Wall of Sound" production technique and his influence on the development of pop music in the 1960s. 🎶🔆
• Rick Rubin, an innovative producer who has worked with artists across various genres and is known for his minimalist approach and emphasis on live instrumentation. 🎹🎸✨
• Pharrell Williams, a multi-talented artist known for his production, songwriting, and collaborations with artists like Daft Punk and Justin Timberlake. 🎵🎤🎶
• Kanye West, a highly influential and controversial figure in contemporary music known for his innovative production, provocative lyrics, and bold artistic vision. 🌟🎤🔥
• Brian Wilson, the creative leader of the Beach Boys, who played a pivotal role in shaping their sound and crafting their timeless hits. 🏄♂️🌊🎶
• Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown Records, who revolutionized the music industry by creating a new kind of music that appealed to both black and white audiences. 🎉🎶🌟
These music producers have left an indelible mark on the music industry and continue to inspire generations of artists and listeners alike. 🎵👏💫
In a recent interview with Steve-O's Wild Ride! 🎙️, Birdman, the founder of Cash Money Records, shared his opinion on whether hip hop has become "soft" since the '90s. He emphatically responded, "Fuck no." 💥 Birdman explained that the game has simply changed with the introduction of social media. Here are some highlights from his interview:
• Birdman acknowledges that artists back in the '90s didn't have the luxury of social media to air out their problems with others. Nowadays, everything is publicized and can lead to real-life consequences, including loss of life. 😮
• He expressed his concern about people losing their lives and emphasized that even rappers are getting caught up in dangerous situations caused by social media feuds. 👀
• This discussion comes in the wake of Rick Ross dragging Birdman into his beef with Drake and joking about his alleged financial struggles. 💰💔
• Birdman's financial situation has been a topic of discussion, as he reportedly faced foreclosure on one of his homes and eventually sold it for a lower price than he bought it for. 🏠💸
Overall, Birdman believes that hip hop hasn't become softer, but rather, the game has changed due to social media's influence. He hopes that the industry will get better and that people can avoid the dangerous consequences that can arise from social media disputes. 🎶🙏
Ever wondered about the beef between Kendrick Lamar, Drake, and J Cole? Well, look no further because this article has all the juicy details you need. 🔥💥
• The feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake has been ongoing for years. 👀
• It all started when Kendrick dropped his explosive verse on Big Sean's "Control" track, where he called out several rappers, including Drake. 🎤🔥
• Drake didn't take kindly to being called out and retaliated with some not-so-subtle jabs in his songs. 😳🔫
• However, despite the tension, both artists have denied that there is any serious animosity between them, suggesting that it's just the competitive nature of hip-hop. 🤝🎵
• Meanwhile, J Cole has managed to maintain friendly relationships with both Kendrick and Drake, often being seen as the mediator between the two. 🌟🔀
• Although J Cole hasn't been directly involved in the beef, some fans speculate about a subtle rivalry between him and Kendrick due to their similar lyrical styles and success. 📝💪
• Ultimately, the beef between Kendrick Lamar, Drake, and J Cole is a fascinating aspect of hip-hop culture that keeps fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting any new diss tracks or verbal sparring that might occur. 🍿🎶
🎤 Chris Brown, known for his silky-smooth vocals, is also a highly skilled rapper. He possesses a unique blend of power, emotion, and range in his voice. Brown's rap verses are characterized by intricate wordplay, clever rhymes, and dynamic delivery. Many of his rap performances have impressed listeners and showcased his talent as a rapper. Some highlights include:
✨ His shot at Quavo in a rap verse addressing their rivalry 🔥
🔥 His freestyle over Drake's "Started From The Bottom" 🎶
🎶 His collaboration with Wiz Khalifa and Big Sean on "Till I Die" 👑
👑 His full-on rap mixtape "Boy In Detention" 🎧
🎧 His verses on the hit single "Look At Me Now" with Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes 💫
💫 His collaboration with Joyner Lucas on "I Don't Die" 🎵
🎵 His rap verses on the mixtape "Fan of a Fan" with Tyga 💥
💥 His boastful and clever rhymes on "B**ches N Marijuana" featuring ScHoolboy Q 🌟
🌟 His freestyle over ScHoolboy Q's "Studio" 🎶
🎶 His creative bars on Guapdad 4000's "Rona Raps/Stay Home Freestyle" 🙌
🙌 His impressive verse on Cal Scruby's "Ain't S**t Changed" 💰
💰 His closing verse on Jeezy's "R.I.P." ✌️
✌️ His hard-hitting rap verse on 50 Cent's "No Romeo No Juliet" 💯
🎵 Coachella, the annual music festival held in Indio, California, has become a cultural phenomenon where people gather to enjoy art, style, and music under the scorching sun. Over the years, the festival's lineup has diversified to include a wide range of genres, including hip hop. Here are some of the most memorable black performances in Coachella history:
• 🐝 Beyoncé's historic headlining performance in 2018, known as Beychella, celebrated black culture and historically black colleges, making a cultural statement that will go down in history.
• 👑 Pharrell Williams' set was filled with celebrity surprises, including guest appearances from Gwen Stefani, Snoop Dogg, Diplo, and Nelly.
• 🎤 Outkast's reunion performance in 2014 was a highly anticipated event, featuring special guest appearances from Janelle Monáe, Future, and Sleepy Brown.
• 🎵 JAY-Z became the first rapper to headline Coachella in 2010, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future rap artists.
• 🌟 Kanye West's Coachella performances have been unforgettable spectacles, with his 2011 show bringing his album "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy" to life.
• 🔥 Kendrick Lamar's appearances at Coachella have become legendary, with his politically charged set in 2017 leaving a lasting mark on fans.
• 🎶 The holographic portrayal of Tupac Shakur during Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg's 2012 performance was an innovative and iconic moment in Coachella history.
• 🎸 Prince's 2008 set showcased his extraordinary talent and stage presence, captivating the audience with his hits like "Purple Rain."
• 💃 Other notable performances include Victoria Monét, Nas, 21 Savage, Big Sean, Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B, Latto, and Doja Cat.
🌟 These performances have made a lasting impact on Coachella and have solidified the artists' places as icons in the music industry. 🎉
