Tag: Hip Hop

Fat Money Levels Up: From Donda 2 Collaborator to CincoDeToven with Zaytoven

Culture News, Economics, Entertainment, Hip Hop, Culture, and Political Tricks, What's Good?

Chicago–Fat Money (formerly Ty Money), a prominent Harvey-Chicago rapper and lyricist, continues to make significant strides in the hip hop scene. Renowned for his sharp lyricism and deep rooted Chicago influences, Fat Money has been a consistent presence in the industry since 2014, releasing multiple studio albums and mixtapes.

In 2022, Fat Money collaborated with Kanye West on the Donda 2 album, contributing as a co-writer and recording several reference tracks for both released and unreleased songs. This collaboration not only showcased his versatility but also solidified his position among hip-hop’s elite with a sought after swag & sound. He’s also worked with Snoop Dogg & Dr. Dre.

Building on this momentum, Fat Money has unveiled his latest project, CincoDeToven, a collaborative effort with legendary producer Zaytoven. This release is part of his annual CincoDeMoney series, traditionally launched on Cinco de Mayo. CincoDeToven blends Fat Money’s incisive storytelling with Zaytoven’s signature trap symphonies, offering a fresh yet familiar soundscape for fans.

Meanwhile, Kanye West’s Donda 2 has been at the center of several legal disputes. The album, initially released exclusively through West’s $200 Stem Player device, faced challenges due to its unconventional distribution method. Producers like ATL Jacob, who worked on tracks such as “Pablo,” “Keep It Burning,” and “Louie Bags,” have reported not receiving payment for their contributions, citing confusion over royalty distributions stemming from the album’s release strategy. 

Additionally, West faces multiple lawsuits over unauthorized samples used in Donda 2. Notably, Ultra International Music Publishing sued him for allegedly sampling Marshall Jefferson’s 1986 track “Move Your Body” without permission in the song “Flowers.”  Another lawsuit by Artist Revenue Advocates LLC claims that West misused music created by several artists in his songs “Hurricane” and “Moon” without proper authorization. 

Despite these controversies, Fat Money’s trajectory remains upward. His collaboration with Zaytoven on CincoDeToven and his involvement in high-profile projects like Donda 2 underscore his growing influence and commitment to pushing creative boundaries in hip-hop. Listen, purchase, and save the project here.

The Reality of Pursuing a Rap Career After 40: Strategy, Success, and Longevity

Culture News

In the hip-hop industry, timing is everything. While some artists establish their careers early and maintain relevance into their 40s, others enter the rap game later in life. Understanding these trajectories provides valuable insight into the realities of success, longevity, and sustainability in hip-hop.

As a communications strategist and brand positioning expert, I’ve worked with artists and brands to help them navigate their careers effectively. The truth is, pivoting at 40 can be a power move, one that allows artists to transition into more sustainable careers rather than chasing an unrealistic dream.

Artists Who Achieved Success Before 40 and Sustained Their Careers

Many renowned hip-hop artists built solid careers before turning 40, allowing them to maintain longevity and evolve over time:

Mainstream Veterans with Decades of Longevity

  • Jay-Z (born 1969) – Released his debut album Reasonable Doubt at 26. By 47, his album 4:44 was critically acclaimed, showcasing his ability to evolve with age.
  • Eminem (born 1972) – Gained fame with The Slim Shady LP at 27 and has continued to release successful projects well into his 40s.
  • Snoop Dogg (born 1971) – Dropped Doggystyle at 22 and remains a cultural icon with a multi-faceted career.
  • Freddie Gibbs (born 1982) – Released his debut ESGN at 31, but had been grinding for over a decade prior, showcasing how sustained effort pays off.

Griselda and the Boom-Bap Resurgence

  • Westside Gunn (born 1982) – Co-founded Griselda Records in 2012 and released Flygod at 34, proving longevity is possible with a solid foundation.
  • Benny the Butcher (born 1984) – Gained prominence with Tana Talk 3 at 34, but had been building his craft long before mainstream recognition.
  • Boldy James (born 1982) – Released his debut at 31, showing that staying consistent and working with strong producers can keep an artist relevant.
  • Armani Caesar (born 1989) – Entered the industry young but gained widespread attention after signing with Griselda in 2020.

These artists had one thing in common: they put in the work before turning 40, building organic fan bases, networking, and proving their worth in the industry long before mainstream success.

Artists Who Started Their Rap Careers After 40

While less common, some artists have attempted to launch rap careers after 40. The challenge is immense, breaking into an industry that thrives on youth-driven content, energy, and cultural trends is not easy.

Artists Who Started Their Rap Careers After 40

While less common, some artists have attempted to launch rap careers after 40. The challenge is immense, breaking into an industry that thrives on youth-driven content, energy, and cultural trends is not easy.

  • MF Doom – While active in the 1990s, his career saw a resurgence in his 40s due to his underground cult following.
  • Money Man (born 1986) – Gained recognition later in his career, but his financial literacy and business acumen helped sustain his relevance.

Why Pivoting at 40 Can Be a Power Move

For artists pushing 40 who have not built a solid foundation, pivoting is not giving up, it’s a strategic transition. Here’s why:

  • Sustainability – If rapping hasn’t become a full-time career by 40, it’s wise to explore other avenues in entertainment such as A&R, production, executive roles, or brand partnerships.
  • Diversification – Many successful artists over 40 expand into businesses, podcasting, film, and other ventures to maintain financial stability.
  • Authenticity – A 40-year-old artist competing with young rappers on trends that don’t match their lifestyle can appear inauthentic. Instead, mature artists can embrace storytelling, mentorship, or niche audiences.

Hip-Hop Career Realism in Conclusion

The hip-hop industry favors those who lay their foundation early. While there are always exceptions, it is rare for someone to start rapping at 40 and achieve financial success. However, this doesn’t mean music must be abandoned, it just means rethinking the approach.

For those truly dedicated to hip-hop, transitioning into executive roles, branding, or a genre shift (e.g., jazz, spoken word, podcasting) can be a power move rather than a loss.

Hip-hop is about evolution, understanding when to pivot can be the difference between chasing a dream and building a lasting legacy.

I’m Excited to Be Part of the Buzz at Streetz 95.1!

Community, Culture News, Entertainment

ATLANTA & CHICAGO-Big news from Streetz 95.1📻 we’re kicking off the end of the year with a huge surprise 😳! Media mogul and entertainer Nick Cannon will be guest hosting the nationally syndicated morning show, Yung Joc & The Streetz Morning Takeover, on December 26 and 27.

This iconic show, featuring Yung Joc, Mz Shyneka, and Shawty Shawty, is a staple in urban radio for its humor, entertainment, and fan-favorite segments like The Date Dilemma, Are You Smarter Than Yung Joc, and Love Doc Joc. Having Nick Cannon bring his charisma and energy to the mic makes this a can’t-miss moment for our listeners!

As the newest Account Executive 👩🏽‍💼 at Streetz 95.1 FM📻, I’m proud to play a role in connecting you to these exciting opportunities. From creative advertising strategies 📈 to fostering community engagement, I’m here to ensure the brands and businesses I work with align with the dynamic energy we deliver on-air 🎙️ 📻 every day.

What This Means for You:

If you’re a business owner or entrepreneur, now is the perfect time to collaborate with us. With Nick Cannon’s guest appearance creating buzz and our highly engaged audience, this is your chance to reach listeners who are tuned in and ready to connect.

Here’s How We Can Work Together:

  • Advertising Opportunities: Let me help your business shine with creative campaigns that resonate with our audience.
  • Brand Collaborations: Align your brand with one of the nation’s most celebrated morning shows.
  • Community Impact: Partner with Streetz FM to reach urban communities authentically and effectively.

Don’t miss this special edition of Yung Joc & The Streetz Morning Takeover on December 26 and 27. Stream worldwide via The Streetz App or tune into 95.1 FM 📻 or 105.1 FM 📻 for HD. Let’s close out 2024 with high energy, culture, and excellence that Streetz 95.1 FM 📻 brings every day!

Feel free to reach out if you’d like to learn more about how we can work together. Let’s amplify your message and connect with the people who matter most!

Stay tuned for more updates from me 😊, Briyana Kelly, your partner in empowering urban culture through communications and creativity.

Thanks to Trey Da Choklit Jok for connecting me! Catch Trey live On-Air 🎙️ weekdays 3 PM-7 PM😊

The Latest in Hip-Hop: Diddy & Jay-Z Faces Explosive New Lawsuit Over Alleged Sexual Assault of a Minor in 2000

Culture News, Entertainment, Hip Hop, Culture, and Political Tricks
Jay-Z
Diddy
I do not own the rights to these images

In the latest chapter of what’s quickly becoming one of the most shocking scandals in entertainment, Sean “Diddy” Combs & Jay-Z is facing new legal trouble. A civil lawsuit filed under New York’s Adult Survivors Act alleges that Diddy & Jay-S raped a 13-year-old girl during a post-MTV Video Music Awards party in 2000.

The anonymous plaintiff, now 37, claims she was drugged at the party and later assaulted by Combs and another unidentified male celebrity. According to the suit, a well-known female celebrity allegedly stood by and watched the attack happen. These are serious allegations that have cast an even darker shadow over Diddy, who’s already been accused of sexual abuse in multiple other lawsuits over the past

The Accusations in Context

This latest case isn’t an isolated incident, it’s one of several lawsuits filed against Diddy under New York’s Adult Survivors Act. The law, which temporarily extended the statute of limitations for survivors to bring forward cases of sexual abuse, has opened the floodgates for long-hidden accusations in the entertainment world.

Diddy is also grappling with federal sex trafficking charges and remains in custody after being denied bail twice. While his legal team continues to deny all allegations, the number of claims stacking up against him paints a troubling picture. The story is still unfolding.

What About Jay-Z?

Reports didn’t mention Jay-Z in connection with earlier filings on October 20, but the latest refiled lawsuit on December 8 naming Jay-Z, does directly implicate him in this case. This leaves questions hanging about whether other figures in the industry will be dragged into the legal drama.

His legal team released a statement via Roc Nation on X:

PR Team’s Communications
Lawyer of Plaintiff ‘s Response via X.

Why This Matters

For years, the hip-hop industry (and many others) have been dogged by rumors of abuse, exploitation, and unchecked power. Now, with lawsuits like this coming to light, the culture and society are being forced to reckon with its darker side. The allegations against Diddy don’t just implicate him but they raise concerns about how power, wealth, and influence have shielded people from accountability for decades.

As this story develops, it’s clear that these accusations are bigger than Diddy & many in power, it’s a human rights issue.It’s about a systemic issue that has harmed too many people for far too long.

We’ll be watching as the court proceedings unfold. Justice, it seems, is finally knocking at the door of the elite but let’s hope it doesn’t just clean out the predators in Hip Hop only.

Sources: NBC News, CrimeOnline, People,

@PNBRock Shot and Killed at Roscoes in South LA During Robbery

Culture News

Real name Rakim Allen, PnB was transported to the hospital at 1:59 PM and pronounced dead after being involved in a robbery at 1:15 PM at the famous eatery Roscoes Chicken 🍗 and Waffles 🧇 located on Main Street and Manchester Avenue where he was dining with his girlfriend who’d posted a location tagged photo on Instagram allegedly an hour before the assault according to a law enforcement captain in Los Angeles, by the name of Kelly Muniz (Los Angeles Times; Draughorne & Winton).

It was a video posted of the artist laying in a pool of blood by a witness, and a witness also said that the suspect approached PnB while he was dining. This happen earlier today, Monday afternoon.

PnB and his girlfriend; and location tagged photo

It was reported that the suspect waved a gun inside the restaurant and demanded items from PnB, sources said he was targeted for his jewelry, he then shot him and ran out the side door to a getaway car 🚙 and then fled the scene. It is unclear how the assailant got the location but it is assumed that it could have been from his girlfriend’s post, a patron or a employer.

If you’re at a certain status or you wear expensive items be sure you have standard rules of engagement, carry protection, and make sure you travel safe. You never know what could happen. It’s unfortunate that this happen to PnB, he would have been 31 December 9 of this year.

I send my condolences 💐 to his family and loved 🥰 ones.

Benny The Butcher In Chicago, Live at Promontory: Tana Talk 4

Culture News, Entertainment, Hip Hop, Culture, and Political Tricks, What's Good?

This is a developing story, I have more to share.

Mr. Butcher is now added to my list of street artists, thanks to Covert Operations. His storytelling is impeccable. Once I saw my cousins, Charles and Paris in the mix, I knew that he had to be something decent but I had no clue he was going to be something this valuable to hip hop culture. Not that I was even expecting anything less because my people have good taste in music and culture, but just like the old head said. “Would you rather have one Maybach or 5 Acuras? He was framing the context of quality music from conception to modern flowing art. I wasn’t aware of who he was but I know now.

Press Associate Kash Photography of New York

“The concert atmosphere was lit. He could have done more songs”

Benny The Butcher Guest

I enjoyed the hip-hop enthusiast vibes and the game from a mid-range perspective. First day back outside, and this gives me clarity of the beats I need to be on for reviews, interviews, and media mixing.

The opening talent was solid, Enos and King Drive is whom I remember. I missed a few artists performing, but I did meet some artists backstage that was graceful, Corey St.Rose & Kid Flvsh. The event was sold out three days before the live show, with guests filling the venue from wall to wall. To walk to the bar was a tour, bumping into fellow peers and natives of the culture.

I look forward to seeing more of Benny The Butcher in the city. If you’re looking for high-end urban culture subscribe to Covert Operations for events, booking, and management. First time in Chicago? Need a social place? The Promontory is a good choice for established social services and food in the heart of the Chicago Culture. 

@KingVonFrmdaWic Chicago Native and Luminary Gunned Down and Killed in Atlanta

Culture News, Hip Hop, Culture, and Political Tricks
King Von

Atlanta- Dayvon Daquan Bennett, also known as King Von, a Chicago Native was gunned down outside Monaco Hookah Lounge , 255 W. Trinity Ave. SW, a nightclub in Atlanta, Georgia after a reported argument happened between two groups which left three dead and three injured.

Two of the officers involved were in uniform working off-duty security jobs at the hookah lounge, and a third was on-duty nearby, according to police. None of the officers were injured.

Atlanta Journal Constitution

According to ABC7, “The Georgia Bureau of Investigations was requested to respond and investigate the officer involved shooting aspect of the incident. APD homicide investigators also responded and are investigating the deaths. Officials said part of the investigations will include determining which individuals were struck by gunfire from the suspects and whether any were struck by gunfire from the officers.Charges are anticipated against the two suspects detained on-scene and additional charges are likely as the investigation continues, police said. The identities of the other victims are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.The investigation into the incident remains open and very active, officials said.”

According to is publicist Erin Ryan via Audible Treats said:

King Von, a rising rapper known for his visceral storytelling, passed away in Atlanta on November 6th. Born and raised in Chicago’s O’Block neighborhood, Dayvon Bennett emerged from difficult circumstances to become one music’s most promising stars. The 26-year-old artist left us just as the world was beginning to grasp the depths of his talents. Last week, Von shared his debut album, Welcome To O’Block, offering a cinematic and vivid account of his origin story, providing an inside perspective on neighborhood life and the trauma wrought by the criminal justice system.

King Von was a luminary — a natural storyteller, an artist on the verge of superstardom who had so much more to give the world. He overcame myriad unjust circumstances yet remained steadfastly dedicated to giving back to the community that raised him, O’Block. He was a devoted father, a deeply loyal friend, and a man who took care of his people before himself. We are heartbroken for his family, his friends, his team, and his fans. Long live King Von.

Audible Treats
Sources

When You Have Heroes as Friends: @SaintTheGoodBoy & Jesse James Saves the Day

Community, Culture News, Hip Hop, Culture, and Political Tricks

Friday, September 7, 2018 King James (Jesse Stringer) and Saint “The Good Boy” (Lennell Davis) was looking for a party during after hours when they approached 79th Phillips and seen a building on fire.

I was told by a source that The Chicago Fire Department was on location and did not immediately respond to the fire. That’s what sparked both guys to go into the building on a rescue mission. Source reported that Jesse asked the Fire Fighters what were they waiting on to go into the building and one of the Fire Fighters responded by allegedly telling him to “go ahead and go in”.

I received a call from Saint shortly after they finished the rescue. For more information on the story, click link here, to get CBS2 Chicago’s account. They awkwardly produced their story deliberately stating that the The Chicago Fire Department’s Fire Fighters immediately responded, when I was told by a source, who was present, that they did not.

Nonetheless, it’s great to know that I have great friends/humans around who will sacrifice to ensure the well being of others. They could have kept riding and assumed that because the Chicago Fire Department was present they would take care of it. This is a good example of leadership and being an active citizen.

@theestallion, Contracts, and the Business of Music at a Young Age

Culture News, Hip Hop, Culture, and Political Tricks
Megan Thee Stallion
Erik Voake/Getty Images for Roc Nation
I do not own the copyrights to this image.

Megan Thee Stallion is in for a big lesson when it comes to finance and contracts. March 1, Megan shared a video via Instagram dishing her contract details with 1501 Entertainment, and its CEO Carl Crawford, who’s an ex Major League Baseball player. She stated that she didn’t understand or know the verbiage that was in the contract that she signed at 20 years of age (now 25), and when she finally got a real management team with lawyers through her management deal with Roc Nation, they brought the details up to see if she understood the terms. She stated she didn’t and wanted to renegotiate. The label isn’t in favor of her releasing new music but is being sued by the artist who is seeking the termination of her contract and a temporary restraining order that has been granted by a judge in Harris County, Texas, to allow her to release new music.

Megan has accused the defendants of common law fraud, breach of contract, fraudulent inducement, fraud by non-disclosure, tortious interference with prospective business relations, violation of the Deceptive Trade Practices Consumer Protection Act, negligent misrepresentation, breach of fiduciary duty and negligence. The plaintiff is seeking a temporary and permanent injunction and a declaration that her contract is “unconscionable, unenforceable and/or void.”, according to the court documents obtained by E! News.  The restraining order will expire March 16, 2020 at 11:59 PM.

What can we learn from this?

It’s important to ask questions when negotiating agreements and understanding all the terms. If you can’t afford a lawyer, it’s important to consult with people in the industry. It’s better than signing something then later having to renege on your business deal.

Yes Megan was young, and I do side with her being taken advantage of because it’s a painful history of artist being incarcerated in deals that do not serve them but those who invest in their capital to record, release, promote, and distribute their art deserve a return (ROI). I hope that this situation can be worked out because everyone deserves an accurate return based on their investment.