#The battle of the instagram rappers

[femalerapperstournament]

Best female rapper tournament

Round 1 Poll 28

[duncebento]

they immediately deleted their comment😭 anyway does anyone else notice how weird white americans are abt british rap idk i guess they just know very little black history but. it's always acting like there are 0 black people in the UK despite them being a significant portion of the population who also have a history of oppression obvi

[doctorslippery]

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[forestfrolickingfairy78]

Linked Universe Headcanons: What I think each of their roles would be in a boy band

I'm surprised how popular my prev one was! I was chatting to a non fan friend and she was curious what they would be like in a band, and asked me who the rapper would be...I reckon WILD hahah

Anyways...

Time: Not an active member but used to be a solo artist back in the day, he doesn't like being in the limelight as much and mentors/manages the rest of them. Still has that suave quality, a total heart throb and occasionally hosts a one off concert only available to the VIPS. He was the IT boy back in the day.

Warriors: Leader of the band and all rounder. He's a complete heartbreaker, can sing, and dance every style and fans go crazy over him. Very charismatic and flirty, knows how to make a fan feel special at a meet and greet and always takes a photo with them.

Twilight: I think lead guitarist, can sing beautifully and has one of the most charming voices, also very yeehaw and country when he goes on solo tour dates or drops his album. He's dripping with quiet confidence and doesn't share too much about his private life to fans, likes to keep a boundary between his private and professional life but will always be kind of them and never deny a photo or autograph

Sky: Has a beautiful voice, more shy and s o f t, he's one of the more quieter members and doesn't like being on camera as much but doesn't hate it either. Has that sweet prince charming vibe that everyone loves, would probably be a part time model on top of his band duties. Can play the guitar and bass

Wild: Absolute hardcore. He's def the main rapper and won't pass up the chance to drop any bars. He'll def go on rap battle tv shows and break EVERYONE. Mans got flow and swag, especially after getting a full arm of tattoos. What's the backstory behind them? He'll change it everytime he's on an interview. Absolute coolest dude on earth, fans LOVE him and how chill he is but you don't want to get on this guy's bad side or you'll be on his diss track list. Even the others are slightly scared of him. Always on social media posting selfies and updates, or threatening other artists that come for him or his band. Likes to film the other members to until Time tells him to cut it out and touch grass

Legend: I can see him having a lot of range in his voice, very powerful and can sing ballads. One of the lead singers and occasionally helps with writing songs. He CAN dance if he puts his heart and soul into it. He loves writing poetry and secretly writes love songs for himself based on a special girl, but he'll tear them up before anyone sees them. Would Probably records an incredible, heartfelt song he wrote and composed himself on his instagram then delete it after 5 hours beccause he'll be like, why the hell did I just do that? Fans would cry, wishing he would post more gems like that. Hates to be in the front but also fairly confident in his skills. Fans adore him because you can just see he's actually a big softie on the inside despite that tough exterior he puts up. Secretly jealous of Wild's rap ability, can't rap to save his life but maybe, one day.

Hyrule:

One of the lead singers, has the most melodic voice and can absolutely stun a crowd with his angelic vocals. Like Legend, also is one of the members with the most range. You know when you see someone in person and their just glowing? Yea, that's him. Sweetest celeb ever, everyone that's worked with him only has good things to say about this guy. Definitely has the most potential to go solo as well with his incredible piano skills. Can also play almost every other instrument, an absolute talent in everything. He also sponsors charities every now and then and interacts with fans on social media. Can do contemporary dance

Wind/Four: Tbh I think they would be good in broad way, both are great singers and still very much fanboys to the others. Their working their way, still in training. Can definitely see Wind going big on broadway and theatre and specialising in tap dance

Can you guess who is my bias? Or who's your bias? hehe

[dutchannanas]

Episode 5 SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS

Ahhhhh I just love Loopy and Haon so much 🥹🥹❤️❤️

The real battle begins... This is going to be tough

The second beat, beat 11, is such a Loopy beat but Yunha was so cool!

Wait it was Loopy's plan to take out most rappers? I had a gut feeling because why else would he go first? Loopy is strong but Yunha was stronger.

I think Yunha will eliminate a lot of rappers.

Huh?

This is too hard. These rappers are too good. I'll just shut up, sit back, watch & relax.

I didn't know who Nosun was but now I do. After he lost to Reddy, I paused the episode to follow him on Instagram.

WHAT IS THIS MELODY? Wow I have a crush on this beat lmao. Anywa, I don't doubt Khan's abilities but this beat and Reddy are a match made in heaven.

Reddy vs Kim Gahyeon. She did okay but she lacked energy. She played too safe.

Reddy let's gooooo~ I just realised I have no idea who is in Loopy's team, I was too focused on him 🤦🏻‍♀️ I'm starting to think Haon's team is going to win this Block Match. Yes, Reddy won again!

Reddy vs Yukon... Oh Yukon, that was it? I blinked and his performance was over.

Raf Sandou won? Reddy was too strong, they just had to nerf him 😌

OH NOW THIS IS WHAT I LIKE. Oh my god Bbulkup forgot his lyrics 😭

Alright Haon let's go!!!

HAON WHAT ARE YOU DOOOOOIIIIIIING

I'm so nervous it's not funny

I can't believe Haon lost. If I was a smoker, this would be a good moment to take a smoke break...

Raf Sandou showed another strong performance! I don't know who James Ahn is but he was amazing! I wonder if he went to Harvard 🤔

Okay okay okay last battle let's go! Now I really want to know in what field he got his master's degree. Wow I don't know who's going to win.

Congratulations to Block 2!

🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊

Oh shiiiiit

Death match time 😧

Man I love Haon. I think if my leader didn't discuss this and suddenly my name got called out, I'd be so pissed.

ACAPELLA RAP? THIS SHOW IS CRAZY

I want to give Haon a hug 😔🫂

Okay so the 6 with most votes, win, the other 6 go home.

THEY ARE ALREADY VOTING?

AAAAAAAhhhhhhh this show is not good for my heart

Yo I'm actually loving acapella rap. They should implement that more often.

Even in death match there's a tie 😭���� Hash Swan and Bizzy??? This is too much

Ahw everyone from Block 3 survived 🥹 I want to give Haon another hug 😔👊🏻

🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊

That was HALF OF THIS EPISODE. If I could, I would smoke a cigarette now. So now what?

Replace leaders & recruit rappers!

I wonder what Kaogaii is going to do... Is he and Geegooin create a whole new team?

Oh! I didn't expect Khundi Panda to be interested in recruiting Owen. Hmm yeah, Owen can do multiple styles.

Hahaha this shit is so funny

Ahh next morning. I like these cute moments where they just follow their own morning routine together.

Block 7.. it must be frustrating for Tray B and Polodared, I wish them well in Block 1.

I wonder what will happen to Block 8. They want to recruit Loopy...? Maybe I should ask Loopy to marry me. Both things won't happen. So nothing changed 💀

This whole thing with Mckdaddy and Kaogaii feels like I'm watching a kdrama lol they're dragging it out as if he's cheating on Khundi Panda 😭😂

Block 5 is fucked

Ahww Haon did well as a leader, but it looks like that position is too much for him.

Block 8 changed their leader from Gamma to Hippie Khunda. I think she'll do well^^

Oh shiiiit is Block 5 going to fall apart?? Wait wait wait, I understand the plan to "drop off and rescue later" but if Block 7 is full, then there's no space for Luci Gang? Hmm risky..

WAIT THE SHOW JUST ANNOUNCED RECRUIT AND REPLACE TIME IS OVER?

This show might just be worse than Squid Game

🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊

New Block Match!

Block Tournament. Wowww so many eliminations will come from this :0

Yeah Block 5 is FUCKED

Oh at least they can decide which Blocks go against each other in the first rounds. This will be interesting~

Starting off with Block 1 vs Block 4. I think the rest of the tournament will be shown in the next episode.

Wow that was fantastic! I have no idea who is going to win. I think Since Punchnello BoiB and SkyMinyuk worked well together but it seems like JTong stole the show.

Next is Block 3 vs Block 2 but that will be shown in the next episode. Ahh it's finally over~

[mariacallous]

Like a soap opera, you skip an episode and lose track of the story. For the past month, two of the most successful hip-hop artists of recent times—Kendrick Lamar and Drake—have been embroiled in a back-and-forth rap beef that reached new levels over the weekend as Lamar released “Meet the Grahams” and “Not Like Us,” and Drake dropped “The Heart Part 6.”

The conflict might be the most newsworthy music event of the first half of 2024, as both MCs voiced strong opinions about each other on the diss tracks, leading to secondary discussions fueled by fan hives, trolls, think pieces, and social media threads. And while the early exchanges might have only slightly piqued some listeners’ interest, the stakes went up following the release of Kendrick’s “Euphoria” last Tuesday. At that point, the beef became something bigger, evolving (or devolving) from the standard stuff of rap and into stormier waters. This includes accusations and exchanges around serious topics: racial authenticity, domestic violence, illegitimate fatherhood, moral posturing, grooming, hypocrisy, colorism, and even colonialism.

The conflict is now mature enough to warrant some larger reflection. Specifically, an examination of what this beef tells us about the marriage between hip-hop, conflict, and online culture.

No advertising campaign can generate the anticipation that rap beef creates, sometimes out of thin air. Whether we are enjoying it or not, we all wait for the next iteration. Through Drake and Kendrick Lamar, we are reminded of just how quickly public squabbles can seize attention—and the many ways that the ecology of digital space in 2024 can shape how these conflicts happen.

For one, artists now control the timing and pace of the releases. Unlike years past, when popular DJs often folded diss songs into radio sets, artists today can curate the release of these tracks, going directly to listeners via platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and X.

Second, the war on truth in the age of misinformation now renders fact-checking irrelevant; whatever someone accuses another artist of in a song might be true or false. Whether we believe it is mostly about whether we want to believe it, whether the message aligns with our preexisting views. And while dodgy accusations have always been true in beef raps, the speed through which falsehoods can spread today makes it easier for absurd claims to take on a life of their own.

Finally, there is the specter of fake songs, generated by artificial intelligence. This makes us double-clutch before clicking a link, as we scramble to debate the authenticity of what we’re about to hear. Saying someone employed ghostwriters used to be the most damning accusation in hip-hop. Today there are many more ways to fabricate a song, and fewer ways to tell the difference between us and the robots. This specifically came to the fore in April when Drake released “Taylor Made Freestyle,” a track that seemingly used an AI-generated version of Tupac Shakur’s voice. (The rapper removed the song after Shakur’s estate sent a cease-and-desist.)

Battle rap, whether it takes the form of in-person face-offs or is done via diss tracks, has always been one of hip-hop’s flagship sports, defined by banter between artists, often—but not necessarily—derogatory in tone. It has roots in “the dozens” and related relics in African American culture that thrive on spontaneity, humor, and wit (often at others’ expense). So while “battling” can be strictly done for the sake of competition, “beef” requires some degree of personal animus between the parties. What’s happening in 2024, as artists like Drake and Lamar trade bar(b)s via IG posts and YouTube clips, and their fans debate the merits on social media, marks a new era of rap beef.

Even this summary has some recency bias: Competitive poetry existed in parts of the world centuries before hip-hop did. Yet, there is something special about how conflict happens in hip-hop: Beef has driven some of the most popular songs ever made, and has been linked to real-world violence. It’s an issue that hip-hop reflects on for small windows (often following the loss of a popular figure, like after the deaths of Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G. in the mid-'90s), after which it returns to business as usual: Rappers A and B exchange taunts, maybe several times. Sometimes a winner is declared. Sometimes it doesn’t matter. Sometimes there is violence; sometimes there is formal peacemaking, like when Jay-Z and Nas ended their beef onstage during a show in 2005. Often, there is widespread attention: rinse, rap, repeat. In the digital world, the cycle moves at the speed of a click.

Very early on, hip-hop communities (like many subcultures) found a home on the internet. At first, message boards served as a place for discussion, and shortly thereafter, rap battles: lines exchanged message by message. No physical stage. No hand gestures. Punchlines only traded bit by bit.

YouTube and streaming created the possibility for something different: the propagation of live battles featuring artists skilled at in-person battling. So popular was battling on YouTube that successful rap battle leagues emerged, turning participants into influencers that accumulate large followings.

Woven throughout is the rise of algorithms and social media, which provide not only an ecosystem for viral videos and songs, but also automatic (and unconscious) instruments to curate media for certain audiences.

The hip-hop movement that can be most directly traced to digital space is the rise of “drill rap,” a form born in Chicago during the 2000s. Its catchy minimalist beats and lyrics make it easier to adopt across regions, local dialects, and lifestyles. It has spread nationally, and spawned the careers of dozens of successful artists. Unfortunately, the story of drill is not the innocent tale of another unique subgenre of hip-hop. Its lyrics feature lamentable celebrations of youth violence, and its songs and videos can include taunting and direct mentions of specific murders.

Public conversations around drill have intersected with debates around policing, gun control, and the contagiousness of high-risk behavior in a digital world. As the genre’s popularity grew, a blame game ensued: Mayors declared war on drill, and appointed special units to investigate local acts; award-winning scholars chimed in, joining a chorus of activists who argue that algorithms should share some of the blame.

Whatever one's take, we can agree that the scenes are chilling: A teenager is gunned down on a Monday. By Thursday, the alleged assailants (often members of a group in conflict with the victim) are boasting about their death on a drill song posted on YouTube. By the following Tuesday, affluent teenagers in Beverly Hills are TikTok-dancing to the track. Rinse, rap, repeat. And in this case, another homicide.

What makes drill so unique is in where rapping stands in the structure: Drill can use rap as little more than a messaging canvas for a street conflict. This is unlike the Kendrick-Drake beef. While the conflict may have taken a dark and personal turn, violent threats haven’t (yet) made their way into the barbs. Given the visibility (and maybe ubiquity) of violence in hip-hop conflicts, we should be grateful to the artists for this. And in general, the Kendrick-Drake beef has the ingredients of a classic rap beef: two talented artists, who care about the craft, trying to settle a score over a beat. Yet, it feels so different.

Fans of hip-hop history know the stories of old: That Boogie Down Productions’ “The Bridge Is Over” (1987) was so impactful that, in its aftermath, artists from Queens allegedly had a hard time getting signed. We’ve heard tales of Big Daddy Kane hunting Rakim around New York City in the late 1980s, looking to battle and end the debate around who was the better lyricist. Most of us know the legendary story of a twentysomething Jay-Z battling DMX in the Bronx. The audiences were small, but the stakes were never higher. In those days, many thought hip-hop was just another fad. The artists were battling for their own ego, but also to grow the art form.

In 2024, we find ourselves at an inflection point. Hip-hop is now as mainstream a form of music as any. Today, narratives live and die on digital timelines, and not in project hallways. The stages are no longer sweatbox nightclubs occupied by dozens (like the ones depicted in 2002’s 8 Mile), but rather online spaces with an audience in the billions. The veracity of claims matters less. And more than ever, the size of the narrative is more important than the quality of the product. “Winning” and “losing” mean everything and nothing, depending on what we care about (e.g., even if Drake is “losing” this beef, it will likely cost him little). This all makes conflict so much more intriguing, and drives a distinct flavor of techno-rap beef—one neither better nor worse than the past, just different.

The manner that technology has already changed rap beef begs the question of where it will go next. One day, the taboo around AI in hip-hop will disappear, and entire battles will be orchestrated by LLM-rappers trained on the raps of individual artists. Quants will develop metrics for who the winners are. If we are offended by a lyric about a member of our family, we’ll blame the machines. It may sound like the stuff of science-fiction, but the gap between this future reality and 2024 might be smaller (in time and manner) than the gap between Canibus vs. LL Cool J (1998) and Kendrick vs. Drake.

The state of things highlights another example of the late MF DOOM’s clairvoyance. The sarcastic lyrics on “Beef Rapp” (the lead song from the acclaimed 2004 album Mm..Food) were not only about the past, but also about a present and future of hip-hop where conflict has life-and-death consequences. Early in the song, DOOM scolds our addiction to rap bloodlust, using beef consumption as a metaphor: “I suggest you change your diet; [beef] can lead to high blood pressure if you fry it.”

The world might agree. Soon, rap beef will cease to exist as we once learned to love it. And that may not be a bad thing.

[douneyhey]

Hi there, lovely folks of the internet! 🎵 Hope you're all doing fantastic because I've got some musical gems to brighten your day and the end of october. 🌟

Reaaadyy~~~~

First and foremost, GUYS!! Don't miss out on "Good Enough," which was just released today, and let me tell you, that's totally my vibe right now! 🚀 The music video is ridiculously cute, and the lyrics? OMO, they hit home.

Essentially, the song revolves around a protagonist who, much like many of us, often feels lost and hopeless. But the lyrics bring a comforting message, saying,

"It's okay, you're good enough. You don't have to be perfect"

It's a reassuring anthem for those chasing their dreams, battling anxiety and uncertainty along the way. 🌠

And for those of you who enjoyed my previous post about "Expectation" by D.O you'll be delighted to know that "The View" is one of the gems from his second mini-album. 🌟

The lyrics of this track beautifully capture the emotions of longing for someone who has left and the heartache of not being able to see them again. 🥺 With D.O.'s soulful vocals and the minimalistic arrangements featuring delicate guitar chords, the song exudes a nostalgic and melancholic feel that's simply enchanting. 🎸✨

I stumbled upon "Sunset Boulevard," and I'm so glad I did. I first came across the artist's work on Instagram, and following my musical instincts was a brilliant decision. 🌅🎶

Trust me, this one's a must-listen. It's a gem that's been brightening my days, and I'm sure it'll do the same for you. 🌟

I have to admit this one's a little biased, considering it's from an Ivorian Singer/Rapper, but let me tell you, it's an absolute banger! 💃

This song carries a powerful message of courage and resilience in the face of adversity, encouraging us to embrace new beginnings on our journey toward a brighter future. 🌈 Its lyrics remind us that, even when hope seems distant, we must keep moving forward, hoisting our sails high and embarking on new adventures.

"How long have I waited for the day to leave behind the past, to say goodbye, and emerge from the lonely season to meet you? How long have I waited for the day to start anew, leaving behind memories that have faded into the past, and to be reborn?"

In essence, the song is a beacon of hope, resilience, and the significance of seeking fresh starts in our lives. To complement this song recommendation, I've got a movie suggestion for you - "The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure." It's a Korean movie, and although it may not entirely align with the song's theme, it reminded me of this film because it's all about pirates and sailing. Plus, it's incredibly fun and worth a watch! 🏴‍☠️

Actually, "Garis Terdepan" is a title released back in 2015. Its calming vibes truly struck a chord with me, so I couldn't resist sharing it with all of you.

From what I understand, the song is a lyrical journey with a protagonist who feels lost and hopeless, yet his partner is always there as a rock to lean on. 🌟 "Garis Terdepan" beautifully delves into the theme of unrequited love, highlighting the significance of having that one constant pillar of support in our lives. 💕

And on this note, I'll leave it to you to decide if these songs are worthy additions to your playlists. 🎧 May your weekend be filled with warmth, joy, and, of course, some fantastic tunes! 🌞🎶

[kickmag]

R.I.P. Bo$$

Detroit rapper Bo$$ has died at age 54. Bo$$ was the first woman to be signed to Def Jam West. DJ Quik discovered her after she relocated to Los Angeles after high school and put her on "Mai Sista Izza Bitch" with AMG. Russell Simmons heard the song and signed Bo$$ to a deal with Def Jam West. Her 1993 debut album Born Gangstaz produced two number-one rap hits "Deeper" and "Recipe Of A Hoe." Bo$$ had the image of a rough street dweller but her album's intro revealed her middle-class origins that included a Catholic School education, ballet, and piano classes. In 1993, there were no other women rappers posing with guns and wearing straitjackets in their videos. Simmons and his marketing team had crafted Bo$$ into the first woman gangsta rapper. Fans did not care that the image was false because Bo$$'s rap skills and charisma in front of the camera sold the show. AMG, MC Serch, Jam Master Jay, and Erick Sermon were amongst the producers who made Born Gangstaz a classic. DJ Premier posted to Instagram to give his condolences and he revealed that they did a remix of "Deeper" that was never released.

She relocated to Houston, Texas in the mid '90s to work with rapper Ricardo Royal aka Coco Budda and they had a personal relationship that produced a son. Def Jam rejected the demos she recorded and dropped her from the label. She spent the rest of the '90s working as a radio DJ with a hip-hop show on KKDA-FM. By the end of the '90s she was battling kidney failure and her relationship with Royal ended. In 2001, she worked on Krayzie Bone's Thug On Da Line album. She released her Six Million Dollar mixtape in 2004. Her health issues escalated in 2011 and she reached out to the Facebook community for a kidney donor. In 2017, she had a stroke and by 2021 a GoFundMe was created to help pay for a medical procedure. The fundraiser surpassed the $15,000 goal. Bun B posted about Bo$$'s passing on his Instagram page and Jermaine Dupri, 9th Wonder, The D.O.C., Mia X, Chuck D, and Slim Thug left comments. Any woman rapper who has rapped about the violent aspects of streetlife has some kind of direct or indirect link back to Bo$$. 

[hadesbullshit]

since you asked about kendrick and drake!

cw for misogyny/misogynoir, pedophilia, sex trafficking

gonna need to split this into two parts bc tumblr won't let me put more than 10 images in the ask

first of all i want to say that i've always hated drake and loved kendrick so this whole thing is making me so happy lmao. drake really shouldn't have gone after a pulitzer winning poet 💀

important to note bc it comes up again later: drake hid the fact that he had a son and the only reason we know he has one is bc pusha t called him out for lying about having a kid during a rap battle

anyway here we go:

okay so essentially, drake and kendrick met, drake asked kendrick to open for him on tour. then kendrick featured drake on his next album. all this was waaaaaayy back in 2011. then in like 2013 kendrick was featured on big sean's song control right and he disses a bunch of rappers, drake included. nobody really cares bc like. that happens all the time and they're still friends yk lmao. EXCEPT drake who gets all butthurt, but who cares.

so fast forward to this past october, drake released a new album, and on one of the songs he features j. cole, who refers to himself, drake, and kendrick as "the big three", as in they're like the three best rappers currently. then, in march, kendrick is featured on future's song "like that" and he says "motherfuck the big three, it's just big me".

then on april 19th, drake drops two diss tracks. the first one is "push-ups" which is just a general diss, and the second one was posted on instagram and was called "taylor made freestyle" where he disses kendrick for featuring on her song bad blood and also says kendrick probably won't respond to his diss track for another week so that he doesn't have to compete with the drop of taylor's new album. the part that REALLY pissed me off personally was that the second of the two opens with a verse using AN AI IMITATION OF TUPAC (the fucking nerve of this guy), and the following verse was an ai imitation of snoop dogg (which says a lot bc why did he have to use ai??? snoop's still alive ??? he could have just featured him ????? 💀). that song had to be taken down from instagram within hours because tupac's estate threatened legal action bc he didn't get consent to do an ai imitation of him.

this is where it starts to get interesting. on april 30th, kendrick responded with a track called euphoria. my personal favorite part was when he responded to drake's allegation that he'd wait to release a response so he wouldn't compete with taylor swift by saying, "y'all think all my life is rap? that's hoe shit, i got a son to raise, but i can see you don't know nothing about that". he also calls him out for never talking about black issues, putting on a fake accent when he raps, trying to act like he's tough (he grew up as a privileged kid in the canadian suburbs and was a child star), using ai in taylor made, etc. he also says drake shouldn't have any right to say the n word anymore (not bc he's biracial, but bc of his misogynoir and the fact that he essentially profits off of US gang culture and stereotypes while not having any experience in that community or ever saying anything about black issues or struggles). here's some of the lyrics:

then, on may 3, kendrick released a second (very short) response called "6:16 in la" where he alleges that drake's team is leaking information to him and saying that drake deserves to be taken down (OVO is drake's label).

so may 4, drake dropped another response called "family matters", baselessly claiming that kendrick abuses his wife, saying he doesn't actually care about his son because he doesn't take many pictures with him (??), and claiming kendrick only talks about black issues to be performative (he said something along the lines of "you rap like you're trying to free the slaves" or smth)

Genuinely thanks bv I had like a vague idea of who drake was (someone who had smth to do with music?) but I’d never heard of Kendrick before

[reasoningdaily]

He drew praise for his scene in the film, in which he belittled Eminem’s character with sarcastic lyrics, a gruff voice and an imposing presence.

Nashawn Breedlove, the actor who received acclaim for his scene in the rap-to-riches film “8 Mile,” in which he delivers a tenacious freestyle in a battle against the character portrayed by the rapper Eminem, commanding the gloomy stage with his blustery lyrics and imposing presence, died on Sunday at his home in Newark, N.J. He was 46.

His aunt Claretha Breedlove said that he had died in his sleep but did not provide a cause.

The 2002 film “8 Mile” starred the rapper Eminem, in a story that is loosely based on his life growing up poor in a trailer park on the northern edge of Detroit. The film is renowned for its gritty portrayal of an artist hustling to make it big in the rap world, depicting a community that can be ruthlessly critical of bland artists yet rapturous when a talent twists lyrics into a clever diss or vituperation. It regularly ranks among the best hip-hop movies ever made.

Mr. Breedlove, who in the film portrayed the rapper Lotto, a member of a rival rap group, projected a sense of bravado in his scene with Eminem’s character, Jimmy, who raps as B-Rabbit.

Set in a small, cramped and darkly lit venue, their battle scene shows both characters onstage — Lotto, his arms muscular and voice gruff, visibly more amped up, and Jimmy, his black beanie snugged and eyes downcast, appearing relaxed and even somewhat disinterested.

After calling Jimmy a “coward,” Lotto takes the mic first and injects his rap with mentions of race and Jimmy’s lack of self-worth, all while playfully adding sarcastic notes of politeness, like when he says “I hate to do this” and tells Jimmy to “have a nice day” right after lobbing a profanity at him.

In one verse, Lotto compares Jimmy to the titular character in the midcentury sitcom “Leave It to Beaver,” saying, “Call me your leader, I feel bad that I got to murder that dude from ‘Leave It to Beaver.’”

After finishing his freestyle, Lotto drops the mic and receives resounding cheers from the audience.

Then the mic is handed to Jimmy, who stares at Lotto before charging into his belittling verse that describes Lotto as someone “paranoid” who needs “another steroid.”

Then Jimmy continues to target Lotto’s muscles: “Looking like a cyclone hit you, tank top screaming, ‘Lotto, I don’t fit you!’”

Jimmy is named the winner of the battle, but compared to how others fared against Eminem’s character — including his final opponent in the film, who famously chokes when confronted with Jimmy’s self-deprecating verses — Lotto’s rap stood out for its forceful yet lucid delivery.

Mr. Breedlove also appeared on the soundtrack to the 2001 comedy “The Wash,” which starred Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre, according to the music publication HipHopDX.

On Monday, Mickey Factz, a rapper, said on Instagram that Mr. Breedlove would be remembered as “one of the few emcee’s to beat Eminem.”

Nashawn Breedlove was born on Feb. 17, 1977, in Newark. He found his love for music at 9 years old when he joined a children’s choir group at a church in Newark, his family said.

Aside from his work on films, Mr. Breedlove worked in the hip-hop industry as both a rapper, under the name Ox, and a ghostwriter, his family said. He had been signed at one point to a record label in the early 2000s, according to his family, and performed at local shows in North Jersey.

Mr. Breedlove is survived by his son, Zaire Breedlove; his mother, Patricia Breedlove; and two sisters, Latrice Breedlove and Selena Weatherspoon.

[ausetkmt]

AllHipHop: T.I. & Tiny Lose $100M Battle Over OMG Girlz Dolls

In a significant legal victory for toymaker MGA Entertainment, a federal jury in Santa Ana has ruled in favor of the company in a high-profile dispute with rapper Clifford “T.I.” Harris and his wife, singer-songwriter Tameka “Tiny” Harris.

The Harris couple had accused MGA of improperly using the likeness of the OMG Girlz, a girl group they managed, in the “L.O.L. Surprise! OMG” line of dolls.

The OMG Girlz, which includes Tiny’s daughter and two of her friends, was promoted by the Harris couple from 2009 until 2015, with a brief reunion in 2017.

In January 2023, Tiny Harris publicly called out MGA Entertainment on Instagram, sharing several photos of the dolls and highlighting their striking resemblance to the members of OMG Girlz.

The couple’s allegations centered on the claim that the hair, dress, and name of the dolls were nearly identical to those of the OMG Girlz and argued that this amounted to an infringement on the group’s likeness.

The couple sought nearly $100 million in damages from MGA, which began selling the dolls in 2019.

MGA Entertainment became embroiled in this legal spat when the Harris couple sent a cease-and-desist order to the company in 2020.

According to T.I. and Tiny, they discovered the dolls when fans brought them to their attention. They then tried to settle the matter privately with MGA, which allegedly led to the toymaker filing a lawsuit against them.

In their countersuit, T.I. and Tiny argued that MGA responded in bad faith. They asserted that instead of discussing a licensing agreement, MGA pre-emptively filed a lawsuit claiming sole ownership of the name and image of the OMG Dolls.

Despite their efforts, the Harris couple lost their legal battle. A jury found the Harris’ and The OMG Girlz abandoned their trademark in 2018, paving the way for MGA’s wins. The jury’s decision signifies that they cannot prevent MGA from marketing the ultra-successful line of dolls.

[musicarenagh]

Leif Riggs Drops Bars On Latest Single 'Phantom' Leif Riggs wasn’t bluffing when he said he was the realest lyricist, with his 90’s inspired hip-hop, he sails on with his freshest single which he titles Phantom. On a rhythmic and percussive instrumentation, Leif Riggs delivers Phantom on a silver plater and if you are an avid listener of Rap music, then you would side with me when I say Phantom is a masterpiece. Phantom takes you back to the days of rap battles, where they drop punches on a bass-dominated instrumentation and each rapper jumps on with their best line. If this was a rap battle, then certainly Leif Riggs would have had the upper hand, the rhymes, puns, and delivery makes the song addictive and difficult to listen to just once. If this is the first time you are listening to Leif Riggs, then this single should tell you the type of artist he is. I am sure he has more coming, and I can’t wait to see it. Listen to Phantom below: Riggs · Phantom (Produced By InsaneBeatz)   Follow Leif Riggs on Twitter Soundcloud Instagram

[rudeboiselectah619]

Rest in Power! To ThevIcon Rap Group “DE LA SOUL’s David Jude Jolicoeur AKA” Trugoy The Dove” 😔 💚💛❤️ slide 👉🏾2 👂🏽🎶 🚨NEWS⚡️FLASH🚨 DE LA SOUL’s David Jude Jolicoeur known under the stage name “Trugoy the Dove” which is “Yogurt” spelt backwards has suddenly and unexpectedly passed away. The American rapper born David Jude Jolicoeur, who was one-third of the hip-hop trio De La Soul, has died at the age of 54, All Hip Hop reported. Though the exact cause of death was not known, he had been struggling with health issues over the past few years. In an Instagram video in 2018, Trugoy spoke about his battle with congestive heart failure. He was briefly hospitalized in 2020. Febuary 12 2023 💐Condolences💐 To His🌹Family, friends & close ones. You will be as a true Pioneer in Old School Hip-Hop…..You will be missed…Gone but never forgotten! Rest in Powa King! Bless up Jah people! 💚💛❤️ {Bio} • #feburary12th2023 #sunday #restinpeace #restinpower #gonebutneverforgotten #davidjudejolicoeur #trugoy #trugoythedove #delasoul #tommyboyrecords #hiphop #reggaefestival #hiphopconcert #hiphoplover #hiphoplove #hiphoplover #rapmusic #80s #rapper #gonebutneverforgotton #oldschool #oldschoolrap #hiphopmusic #instavinyl #rapvinyl #hiphopvinyl #vinyljunkie #sandiegoroots https://www.instagram.com/p/ColuP1kLlMs/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[90363462]

Kim Kardashian Seemingly Shades Exes Kanye West & Pete Davidson By Liking Cryptic Relationship Quote!

Is Kim Kardashian making a slight dig at her exes Kanye West and Pete Davidson?

The 42-year-old reality star seemed to throw some shade at the 29-year-old comedian and 45-year-old rapper when she hopped on Instagram on Friday to like a cryptic post about knowing your worth in relationships. The quote, posted by the account @thirdeyethoughts, read:

“The right person will show you that you weren’t even asking for much.”

Hmm… We wouldn’t be surprised if Kim meant to shade her ex-partners, especially Ye!

The pointed move comes just days after Kimmy Kakes finally finalized her divorce from Kanye – a process that was not easy given his rotating roster of lawyers and online harassment toward the Keeping Up With the Kardashians alum. A source shared with Entertainment Tonight that Kim has been feeling “relieved” that their almost two-year legal battle is over, saying:

“Kim is relieved that her divorce from Kanye was finalized and that the details of their agreement have been sorted out. This is what she has wanted for quite some time. She is looking forward to moving forward and continuing to focus on her kids and their happiness. The kids will continue to be with Kim the majority of the time.”

Elsewhere in her life, Kim had dated Pete for about nine months until they broke up in August of 2022. At the time, an Us Weekly source insisted they ended things amicably, explaining:

“There truly wasn’t drama between them when they decided to separate. It was something they talked through; it wasn’t a sudden breakup.”

The insider added that their jam-packed schedules made it hard for them to keep up a relationship:

“They each have busy schedules and the distance made it hard. Kim travels a ton and it was hard for Pete to keep up, especially with his filming schedule.”

However, shortly after the Saturday Night Live alum debuted his new relationshipwith Emily Ratajkowski, she hasn’t hesitated to shade him on social media. Most recently, she shared a quote on Instagram Stories that said:

“One thing I realized is that everything always ends up working out. Sometimes even better than you can imagine. Remember then when you feel like you’re in a hard place or you feel like you’re being challenged the most. Believe in where you’re headed. See the bigger picture.”

What do YOU think, Perezcious readers? Do you believe Kim was trying to throw shade? Sound off in the comments below!

[Image via Kim Kardashian/Instagram, Avalon/WENN, WENN]

Sent from my iPhone

[musicindustry123]

Breaking Into the Rap Scene: A Beginner's Guide to Finding Opportunities in the Music Industry

Entering the music industry can feel intimidating, especially when you’re trying to make it as a rapper. With so much talent already in the spotlight, it’s natural to wonder how to get in the music industry as a rapper and stand out from the competition. Fortunately, there are many ways to gain exposure, build your fanbase, and eventually catch the attention of key players in the industry. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to gain momentum, this guide will walk you through various methods and strategies that can open doors for new rappers.

From finding performance opportunities to leveraging social media and networking with industry professionals, the journey to establishing yourself in the rap industry requires effort and strategic planning. While it may seem daunting at first, each opportunity is a stepping stone that brings you closer to your goal. This article outlines actionable steps to help you maximize every chance to perform, collaborate, and promote your music. With persistence and a proactive approach, you can turn these opportunities into a thriving career in the rap industry.

1. Attend Local Open Mics and Freestyle Events

One of the best ways to get noticed early in your rap career is by participating in local open mics, freestyle battles, and music events. These venues are ideal for showcasing your talent, building stage confidence, and connecting with fellow artists and fans. Many cities have hip-hop communities that regularly host events where up-and-coming artists can perform, network, and test their skills.

If you’re unsure where to start, search online or check social media for events in your area. Even smaller venues or open mics can help you gain performance experience, build confidence, and potentially attract fans. Every performance you do, regardless of the size of the crowd, will sharpen your skills and introduce you to new people in the music community.

2. Collaborate with Local Artists and Producers

Collaboration is a fantastic way to expand your reach, gain new fans, and learn from other artists’ techniques. Seek out local rappers, vocalists, and producers who share your musical interests and reach out to them about potential collaborations. Working together on tracks, features, or even remixes can help each artist involved tap into each other's fanbase.

For a rapper, collaborating with a talented producer can be especially beneficial, as they can bring new beats and sounds to your music. Find producers through platforms like SoundCloud, Bandcamp, or even social media, where many share their work. Collaboration exposes you to different creative approaches, expands your network, and gives you the chance to show your versatility as an artist.

3. Create an Online Presence Through Social Media

Social media is one of the most powerful tools for anyone wondering how to get in the music industry as a rapper. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube allow artists to share their music, engage with fans, and connect with industry professionals. Creating a consistent online presence can increase your visibility, helping you grow a loyal fanbase over time.

Start by creating a professional artist profile on major social platforms. Share behind-the-scenes content, snippets of your music, and updates on performances or releases. Utilize relevant hashtags, post regularly, and engage with followers to maintain an active presence. TikTok, in particular, has proven to be a game-changer for independent artists, as its algorithm can push your content to a wide audience, helping you gain viral exposure.

4. Release Your Music on Streaming Platforms

To reach a larger audience, releasing your music on streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube is essential. These platforms allow you to connect with listeners worldwide and start building a fanbase outside your immediate circle. Distribution services like TuneCore, DistroKid, and Amuse make it easy for independent artists to get their music on major streaming platforms.

Streaming platforms not only help you build credibility but also give you a chance to earn royalties. While earnings from streaming may be small initially, being on these platforms is crucial for reaching new listeners and increasing your chances of getting noticed. Once your music is available on these platforms, promote it on social media, in your local community, and during live performances.

5. Build a Professional Network

Success in the music industry often depends on connections, so developing a professional network can make a significant difference. Attend music festivals, industry events, and workshops, or even reach out to people in the industry on LinkedIn. Networking doesn’t mean just meeting artists; it also includes connecting with managers, producers, promoters, and even bloggers or influencers who can help spread the word about your music.

When networking, focus on building genuine relationships instead of pushing for immediate gains. Approach people with respect and an openness to learn. Asking for advice, expressing interest in their work, and staying in touch can help you build meaningful connections that may lead to collaborative or performance opportunities down the road.

6. Submit Your Music to Blogs and Playlists

Music blogs and playlists can amplify your reach by exposing your tracks to a wider audience. Submit your music to genre-specific blogs, websites, and playlists that feature up-and-coming artists. Research blogs and playlists that cover rap and hip-hop, and reach out to them with a brief introduction and a link to your music.

Many independent curators on platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and SoundCloud accept submissions from new artists. Getting featured on a popular playlist can help you gain streams, followers, and fans who may not have discovered your music otherwise. While landing a spot on a major playlist might be challenging, smaller, independent playlists are often easier to approach and can still have a substantial impact.

7. Leverage Digital Marketing and Paid Advertising

In today’s digital world, running ads on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube can help increase your music’s visibility. Digital marketing allows you to target specific demographics, such as age, location, and music preferences, to reach fans who are more likely to appreciate your style.

When setting up ads, create engaging content that showcases your talent and gives viewers a taste of your music. Ads that lead to a landing page with your music links or social media profiles are particularly effective. If your budget allows, digital marketing can help you reach new listeners quickly and build a following.

8. Perform Regularly to Build Experience and Confidence

Performing regularly not only builds your confidence but also helps you improve your stage presence, which is critical for anyone looking to make a name in the music industry. Seek out open mics, local showcases, and even virtual events where you can perform live. The more you perform, the more comfortable and polished you’ll become, making you a stronger candidate for bigger shows and industry events.

If physical shows are limited, consider hosting live-streamed performances on platforms like YouTube or Instagram. Performing live also allows you to connect with fans directly, giving them a memorable experience that can inspire loyalty and word-of-mouth promotion.

Conclusion:

Breaking into the music industry as a rapper isn’t easy, but with dedication and strategic action, it is absolutely achievable. By exploring every opportunity—whether it’s performing live, networking, collaborating, or promoting your music online—you’ll find yourself gaining traction in the industry. How to get in the music industry as a rapper involves consistent work on your craft and a proactive approach to seeking and creating opportunities.

Remember, the journey to success takes time, and every small step counts. Embrace each opportunity as a learning experience, and focus on building a strong foundation. Stay true to your voice, connect with others, and be persistent. With each opportunity you take, you’re building a career that can eventually lead to recognition and success in the competitive world of rap.

[fiercemillennial]

Offset's Cash-Cradling Kid: A Costly PR Stunt or Innocent Playtime?

Offset's latest Instagram post is sparking a serious conversation. Is it innocent fun or a questionable display of wealth? Let's talk about it. #Offset #CardiB #Parenting #CelebrityCulture #MoneyMatters #FierceMillennial

Amidst Divorce Battle with Cardi B, Rapper Shares Controversial Photo of Son In a move that’s as shocking as it is questionable, Offset has ignited a firestorm of criticism after sharing a photo of his two-year-old son, Wave, casually posing with stacks of cash. The image, posted amidst his ongoing divorce proceedings with Cardi B, has sparked a heated debate about parenting, wealth, and the…