World News

Artists of the Most Important Decade in Rap and Hiphop History

Published

8 months ago

October 23, 2023

The 1990s, often referred to as the “Golden Era” of hip hop, was a transformative decade for the genre. Not only did it solidify hip hop’s place in the musical mainstream, but it also introduced us to artists whose legacies continue to influence today’s music scene. This decade gave birth to numerous styles within hip hop, from East Coast and West Coast rivalries to the rise of Southern hip hop and more experimental branches of the genre. Let’s take a nostalgic trip back to the 90s and celebrate the artists who left an indelible mark.

Notorious B.I.G.:

East Coast rapper Biggie Smalls, also known as Notorious B.I.G., was known for his impeccable flow and storytelling skills. With hits like “Juicy” and “Big Poppa,” Biggie painted a vivid picture of life in Brooklyn. Though his life was tragically cut short, his influence on hip hop is immeasurable.

Tupac Shakur:

Tupac Amaru Shakur, a name that resonates deeply in the chambers of hip hop, is not just a moniker but a movement. The 90s, often called the “Golden Era” of hip hop, witnessed Tupac not only as a significant player but as a revolutionary figure who rewrote the rules. In this blog, we delve into how Tupac shaped 90s hip hop and became an immortal icon.

A Poet Among Rappers:

Tupac’s lyrical depth was unparalleled. His background in performance arts and his inherent poetic touch transformed rap into introspective narratives. Songs like “Keep Ya Head Up” and “Brenda’s Got a Baby” presented complex societal issues with a vulnerability rarely seen in the genre before.

From Personal to Universal:

While Tupac’s lyrics were deeply personal, they resonated universally. He spoke of his struggles, his background, and his dreams, making them relatable to anyone listening. This personal-yet-universal approach brought a broader audience to hip hop.

East Coast vs. West Coast:

The 90s witnessed a fierce rivalry between the East Coast and West Coast hip hop scenes. Tupac, initially an East Coast artist, became a pivotal figure in the West Coast movement, especially after the release of hits like “California Love.” His involvement in this rivalry (and its tragic outcomes) forever marked the history of 90s hip hop.

Blurring Musical Boundaries:

Tupac never confined himself to the strict boundaries of hip hop. He incorporated elements of classical music, rock, and soul. His collaborations with artists from varied genres showcased hip hop’s versatility.

A Catalyst for Social Commentary:

Tupac was fearless in addressing social issues. He tackled topics like racism, inequality, and police violence head-on, turning his music into potent social commentary. This legacy ensured that hip hop became an important platform for societal discourse.

Elevating the Album Experience:

Albums like “Me Against the World” and “All Eyez on Me” weren’t just collections of songs but cohesive narratives. Tupac’s albums told stories, making listeners journey through myriad emotions and reflections with each track.

Posthumous Influence:

Even after his tragic death in 1996, Tupac’s influence didn’t wane. Posthumous albums and the countless artists citing him as a primary influence underscored his eternal imprint on hip hop.

More Than Music – A Multi-faceted Artist:

Beyond music, Tupac ventured into acting, leaving a mark with films like “Juice” and “Poetic Justice.” His foray into cinema made it clear: Tupac was not just a musician but a holistic artist, further deepening his impact on 90s culture.

Nas:

Hailing from Queensbridge, Nas is often cited as one of the greatest rappers in history. His debut album, “Illmatic,” is considered a masterpiece, with its intricate lyrics and raw depiction of life in New York City.

Lauryn Hill:

As a member of the Fugees and as a solo artist, Lauryn Hill blended soul, reggae, and hip hop to create a unique sound. Her album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” remains one of the most critically acclaimed records in hip hop.

Wu-Tang Clan:

Enter the Wu-Tang: a collective not just of rappers but of visionaries. Emerging from the streets of Staten Island, the Wu-Tang Clan became an entity that forever changed the landscape of 90s hip hop. Their influence was profound, their style unmatched, and their legacy immortal. This blog delves into the seismic impact the Wu-Tang Clan had on the genre during its golden age.

A Collective Powerhouse:

Unlike solo artists or duos that dominated the scene, Wu-Tang was a robust collective, each member bringing a unique flavor to the table. RZA, GZA, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa, and Ol’ Dirty Bastard: together, they created a synergy that was electric.

Kung Fu Meets Hip Hop:

Wu-Tang’s distinctive blend of martial arts aesthetics with gritty rap made them stand out. Their tracks, layered with samples from kung fu movies, created a novel narrative style, making their music an experience rather than just a listen.

DIY Ethos:

RZA’s unique production style, characterized by its off-kilter beats and innovative sampling, was largely DIY. This self-reliant ethos added a raw authenticity to their music, further distinguishing them from contemporaries.

Street Poetry:

Wu-Tang’s lyricism was unparalleled. Their verses, complex and intricate, painted vivid portraits of life in urban America. Tracks like “C.R.E.A.M” didn’t just offer catchy hooks but provided deep social commentary.

Revolutionizing Rap Business:

Beyond music, Wu-Tang was innovative in their business dealings. Their unprecedented deal allowed individual members to sign solo contracts with different labels while still retaining group cohesion. This model not only maximized their reach but also revolutionized industry norms.

Cult-Like Following:

Wu-Tang’s impact wasn’t just musical—it was cultural. Their “W” symbol, music, and ethos created a cult-like following. Fans weren’t just listeners; they were disciples of the Wu-Tang philosophy.

Branching Beyond Music:

Members like Method Man and RZA branched out into acting, further expanding the clan’s influence. Moreover, the group ventured into the fashion industry, video games, and even movies.

Legacy and Continuation:

Despite the ups and downs, including the tragic loss of Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Wu-Tang’s influence persists. New generations of rappers frequently cite them as inspirations, ensuring the clan’s ethos lives on.

Dr. Dre:

Not only did Dre produce some of the decade’s biggest hits, but he also introduced us to other legends, including Snoop Dogg and Eminem. His album “The Chronic” is a landmark in West Coast G-funk.

Salt-N-Pepa:

Pushing the boundaries for female rappers, Salt-N-Pepa became one of the first all-women groups to achieve significant success in the hip hop scene with hits like “Shoop” and “Push It.”

OutKast:

Andre 3000 and Big Boi brought the sounds of the South to the forefront of hip hop. Their eclectic style and innovative lyrics paved the way for the rise of Southern hip hop in the subsequent decades.

Jay-Z:

Starting in the late 90s and dominating well into the 2000s and beyond, Jay-Z’s “Reasonable Doubt” showcased a mix of mafioso rap and slick production, cementing his place as a hip hop mogul.

The 90s was a period of innovation, rivalry, and pure lyrical genius in the world of hip hop. The artists from this era didn’t just define a decade; they shaped the trajectory of the genre for years to come. While today’s hip hop has evolved in countless ways, the roots planted by these 90s icons remain evident in every beat and bar. As they say, old school never goes out of style.

From the raw streets of Staten Island that birthed the Wu-Tang Clan’s revolutionary sound to Tupac’s poetic verses that reverberated across the West Coast, the ’90s was an era of hip hop titans who not only redefined music but also culture. These artists, with their unmatched talent, created a legacy that has impacted generations.

And as the influence of these icons has endured, so has the opulence that often accompanies success in the hip hop world. Have you ever wondered how the affluence of today’s rap moguls compares to that of our favorite ’90s legends? Dive into this captivating read by SpinGenie.Ca titled, “Discover Which Rapper Has The Most Expensive House In The World”. It’s fascinating to see how the groundwork laid by ’90s icons has paved the way for the luxurious lifestyles of contemporary rappers!

World News

Kenyan President Ruto withdraws controversial finance bill following violent protests

Published

22 hours ago

June 26, 2024

VJ Scaro

Kenya’s President William Ruto says he will withdraw a finance bill containing controversial tax hikes after deadly protests which saw parliament set ablaze on Tuesday. (more…)

World News

Social Trends: American rapper, Foolio Fatally Shot at 26th Birthday Celebration

Published

4 days ago

June 23, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

Florida rapper Julio Foolio, also known as Foolio, was shot and killed while celebrating his 26th birthday in Tampa.

RIP Julio Foolio
The rapper was killed while celebrating his birthday party in Tampa 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/wsA0UegylH
— FearBuck (@FearedBuck) June 23, 2024

The incident occurred during a party, and details surrounding the shooting are still emerging.

🔥🚨BREAKING: Florida rapper Julio Foolio has been shot and killed at his birthday party. This rapper was notorious for going viral in 2021 after he made a song mocking all of the people who he didn’t like that were killed. pic.twitter.com/Tx6qUNh093
— Dom Lucre | Breaker of Narratives (@dom_lucre) June 23, 2024

Foolio was known for his controversial song ‘When I See You,’ which discussed the death of his enemies on their birthdays.

His death has sparked discussions about violence in the rap community and the consequences of provocative lyrics.

Yungeen Ace Drop This Same Night Julio Foolio Died Rest In Peace pic.twitter.com/AkM0ZwzeJh
— General (@pluggysteph_) June 23, 2024

Listen

6LACK Returns With New Song “Fuck The Rap Game

Published

6 days ago

June 21, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

6LACK Returns With New Song "Fuck The Rap Game

Today, the multi-platinum, four-time GRAMMY-nominated artist 6LACK returns with the release of his stirring new song “FTRG” (“Fuck The Rap Game”) via LVRN/Interscope Records. The track sees 6LACK in deep reflection as he honors his rap roots, revealing much about his own staggering personal and professional journey. A journey lined with the tumultuous ups and downs of the music industry that goes hand-in-hand with his own journey as a man in today’s world. It’s the result of a man vehemently working to be his best for his family, his friends, his peers, his community and himself, choosing to stay focused on his higher purpose that led him to find music. Directed by AboveGround, the video brings to life the many sentiments at play in this song: The flashiness and allure of the industry while 6LACK bares himself and remains authentically him.

“FTRG” follows the release of his beloved More Lonely Nights acoustic project that celebrated the one year anniversary of his Grammy-nominated album, Since I Have A Lover. It also arrives as 6LACK is in the middle of his striking No More Lonely Nights Tour that has introduced a series of intimate performances that capture the raw emotion that lines the collection of songs on Since I Have A Lover, delving into 6LACK’s personal journey with mental health, healing, personal growth, love and finding his way through it all — the good and the bad.

Since I Have A Lover has received large critical acclaim from the likes of NPR, Zane Lowe, Rolling Stone, Forbes, Business Insider, Complex, Fader and Pitchfork to name a few. It introduced a collection of profound songs speaking on mental health, recovery, self-improvement, love and revealed much about 6LACK’s personal journey navigating life’s highs and lows. It’s 6LACK like we’ve never seen or heard him before. The album features stunning collaborations with Don Toliver, Wale, India Shawn, Ty Dolla $ign, QUIN, and production by Leon Thomas, OZ, Fwdslxsh, Scribz Riley, EarthGang’s Olu, Teddy Walton and others.

ABOUT 6LACK:

Pronounced “Black”, the four-time GRAMMY-nominated and multi-platinum selling artist has brilliantly captured a voice of a generation through his dynamic art for years now. Born and raised in Zone 6 of Atlanta, 6LACK exploded onto the scene with his breakout debut FREE 6LACK album in 2016, cementing his insatiable, singular sound. He was later catapulted into stardom in 2018 with the arrival of his critically acclaimed album, East Atlanta Love Letter, which hit No. 1 on the Top R&B Albums and peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard 200.

The revered artist has amassed over 9.2 billion global streams across platforms while also giving the world some of the biggest hits from the past decade through explosive collaborations with some of today’s most beloved artists including J. Cole, Future, Selena Gomez, Young Thug, Timbaland, Normani, Isaiah Rashad, Rita Ora, Ty Dolla $ign, Lil Baby, Khalid, Jessie Reyez, Nao and many more. Most recently, his colossal collaboration with Lil Tjay on the song “Calling My Phone” earned him a No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, No. 1 on the Hot Rap Songs chart and hit No. 3 on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100 chart. The track has since reached platinum status and was brought to life through a moving performance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

6LACK: NO MORE LONELY NIGHTS TOUR DATES:

Sat Jun 22 | Waukee, IA | Vibrant Music Hall

Thu Jun 27 | McKees Rocks, PA | Roxian Theatre

LISTEN TO THE SINCE I HAVE A LOVER LP HERE

LISTEN TO THE NO MORE LONELY NIGHTS EP HERE

6LACK Press Photos: https://umusic.box.com/s/aul0i6w5w7x1c3kos9jtihrnwsxo5y86

Follow 6LACK: INSTAGRAM I TWITTER I YOUTUBE I SOUNDCLOUD | FACEBOOK I WEBSITE

For more information visit www.6LACK.com

World News

Travis Scott arrested on disorderly intoxication, trespassing charges in Miami

Published

7 days ago

June 20, 2024

VJ Scaro

Rapper Travis Scott was arrested and booked into Miami-Dade County Jail early Thursday morning on charges of trespassing property after being given a warning and disorderly intoxication, county jail records show. (more…)

World News

Swizz Beatz & Timbaland Cement New Distribution Partnership Between Verzuz & X

Published

1 week ago

June 19, 2024

Ameyaw Debrah

Swizz Beatz & Timbaland Cement New Distribution Partnership Between Verzuz & X

Making a monumental power move, VERZUZ—the online award-winning, multi-media platform launched by Swizz Beatz and Timbaland—has cemented an exclusive partnership with Xfor distribution. Swizz and Timbaland personally broke the news at an activation in Cannes, France today.

Earlier this year, Swizz and Timbaland reacquired VERZUZ from previous partner Triller, now owning 100% of the platform, while retaining their equity (along with the artists who participated in VERZUZ) in Triller. Upon resuming complete control, they sought out the perfect channel for independent distribution.

The partnership journey with X has now begun!

Together, the companies orchestrated a mutually beneficial alliance where Swizz and Timbaland maintain their full ownership and creative control, while X receives exclusive distribution rights. As a result, VERZUZ will now broadcast to an audience of over 550 million active users, exponentially expanding its viewership and international reach like never before. Since the inception of VERZUZ, the conversations around each VERZUZ naturally evolved on X from fans and enthusiasts alike. Viewers will now be able to watch for FREE exclusively on X, bringing the visual series, and viral conversation, all to one platform! Stay tuned for the announcement of the next VERZUZ matchup coming soon.

About this chapter, Swizz stated, “We are beyond thrilled to have found the best partner for Verzuz. Not only are we excited to have Verzuz on X, we’re excited to help X build the biggest entertainment company in the world. I would like to thank Elon Musk, Linda Yaccarino, Brett Weitz, Mitchell Smith and the entire X team for believing in the Verzuz vision. We can’t wait to get to work.”

Timbaland added, “We are thrilled to partner with X, the most innovative platform globally. Our goal has always been to bring Verzuz to the world which we can now do bigger than ever.”

As they have since the first VERZUZ, the founders uplift the culture and community into the spotlight in the center of the world’s stage. However, they preserve the same grit, honor, authenticity, and integrity that makes hip-hop, rap, R&B, soul and ALL genres of music so special. They have the opportunity to magnify its resonance, thanks to Elon Musk, Linda Yaccarino, CEO of X, and the entire X team championing their unfiltered voices.

Linda Yaccarino stated, “X is so proud to partner with trailblazing creators, artists, and entrepreneurs Swizz Beatz & Timbaland. Our platform stands at the forefront of innovation, and Verzuz defines the essence of an innovative content experience. As we continue to work with the most exciting voices to bring premium content to X, there is no better fit than this series. Together we will redefine how consumers engage with their favorite entertainment, one Verzuz at a time.”

VERZUZ has partnered with Uncontained Media, led by Christian Sarabia, and Raymond Garcia. Together, they have produced multiple hit shows including Emmy Winner DRIVE WITH SWIZZ BEATZ and will serve as the production company and Executive Producers of VERZUZ.

The influence and impact of VERZUZ has proven to be undeniable. So far, it has produced over 40 episodes, generating 100 million-plus live views and over 70 billion impressions. It has naturally encompassed other verticals with VERZUZ SPORTS, and VERZUZ COMEDY, all which play well to some of the most highly engaged communities on X. Not to mention, the power of the #VERZUZEFFECT cannot be overstated. Every artist that has participated in a VERZUZ have seen dramatic increases in streaming, ticket sales, merchandise, and overall revenue from just one appearance.

Welcome to the biggest, boldest, and best era of VERZUZ. Welcome to the future of entertainment.

World News

“Lord Of The Rings” actor Ian McKellen hospitalized after falling off stage during London performance

Published

1 week ago

June 18, 2024

VJ Scaro

Sir Ian McKellen has been taken to hospital after falling off stage during a performance of Player Kings at the Noël Coward theatre in London. (more…)