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50 Cent Refuses To Battle Anyone On The VERZUZ Battle

These days, 50 Cents keeps himself busy by juggling several projects at one time. Last Thursday, he did a New York premiere of the spin-off POWER series Power Book III: Raising Kanan. Additionally he’s hard at work on his newest Starz series Black Mafia Family that is set to premiere in September. Not to mention, he’s producing the soundtrack for the new series. With so much going on, it seems unlikely that 50 Cent would have time for anything else. Though, when it comes to the VERZUZ battles, he makes it clear he has no interest in making an appearance.

 We Won’t See 50 Cent On A VERZUZ Battle Anytime Soon

VERZUZ
via Complex

The rapper maybe a busy man but he makes time for other activities as well. However, he absolutely refuses to participate in Timberland and Swizz Beats VERZUZ battle. During a recent interview, 50 Cent explained that the battles were only supposed to last during the pandemic lockdowns. With everything opening back up, he sees no point in continuing the virtual battles. “That happened during the pandemic when people stayed in the house. Now that we back outside, there’s other things to do. We should focus on creating a new history, not being back there,” the rapper said. Back in January, 50 Cent echoed his recent comments to The Morning Culture Show. Additionally, he noted that the virtual battles helped “contributed to rappers who didn’t receive enough recognition.” Obviously, 50 Cent believes he’s on a whole other level.

            Emcees Who’ve Requested A VERZUZ Battle With 50 Cent

VERZUZ
via XXL Mag

While 50 Cent seems absolute in his decision to not do a VERZUZ battle, he still has offers rolling in. Several emcees have already requested to battle it out with the G-Unit mogul. Everyone from the likes of T.I, The Game and even the Ja Rule have discussed going toe-to-toe with 50 Cent. Even the fans agreed that they’d love to see the rap mogul spit bars with his rap colleagues. For now, though, it’s a hard pass for 50 Cent. Who knows, he might change his mind in the future. After all, he almost agreed to battle it out with The Game.

DaniLeigh Is Pregnant, DaBaby & Fans React

DaniLeigh Confirms Pregnancy In Intimate Post

DaniLeigh was enjoying a vacation with her family when someone mistakenly broke the news. Immediately, the singer took to Instagram to confirm her pregnancy.

DaniLeigh surprised her Instagram followers on Friday. In a blissful photoshoot in front of a waterfall in the Dominican Republic, the singer and choreographer holds her pregnant belly in her latest post.

She happily wrote: “As you grow so does my love, discipline, and focus 🤍

DaniLeigh Laid Low

Following her breakup with DaBaby, DaniLeigh stayed out of the limelight. There is some speculation that her ex, DaBaby, is the father of the child. DaBaby simply acknowledged the news, but did not comment on the matter.

Despite the unknown status of the relationship between the two, DaniLeigh dished about how she carried herself while with DaBaby.

“Lol sad… but ok…,”she wrote at the time. “I’m looking forward to moving on from that situation. We’re all human, and we all make mistakes when we’re in love and not thinking clearly. But the important thing is to keep growing. I’ll take these lessons with me and keep moving forward. Even though I receive hate, it’s okay. Time will bring resolution.”

Stirring The Colorism Pit

In addition to the relationship split, the singer received backlash for her insensitive “Yellow Bone” single. She apologized for offending anyone and denied being a colorist.

It can be a personal thing to certain people ‘cause colorism is a real thing,” she said in part. “But I’m not that. I’m not a colorist or a racist. I date a whole chocolate man. I have chocolate friends.

“Skin is not something I even see. Because you don’t know me it’s like let me tell you guys what I meant by that. Hopefully you guys can watch it with an open heart and genuine mind. I’m sorry, again. I offended people who are truly offended. I am sorry.”

Congrats to DaniLeigh on her journey to motherhood! Fans hope that things will work out for the best.

Latto Seconds Claim That Female Rappers Get No Respect

Atlanta female rapper Latto has come a long way since her early days as a contestant on Lifetime’s The Rap Game. Since winning the first season, she’s gone platinum and even achieved gold status. Not to mention, she has a track featured on The Fast & The Furious 9 soundtrack. Apparently, the star has achieved plenty in the early stages of her rap career. Despite her accomplishments, Latto firmly believes that female emcees aren’t respected in the industry.

Latto Says Female Rappers Aren’t Respected Enough

Latto
via BET

Recently, Cardi B made a statement pertaining to the mistreatment and disrespect female rappers receive on the daily. Despite their success, they still have to prove themselves in the industry. Furthermore, Latto shared with NME that she seconds Cardi B’s earlier statements. The “Muwop” star says female emcees have to work twice as harder than their male counterparts. Additionally, Latto suggested that male rappers don’t experience the same hardships that female emcees do. In her opinion, they can keep making “the same moves” without consequence. The treatment of female artists in the industry seems like a competition in of itself.

Latto Appreciates The Hustle And The Struggle

Latto
via Urban Magazine

Unfortunately, the industry does put more pressure on female rap acts. Everything from their rap skills, their personal relationships and even their body image falls under scrutiny. Despite all the hardships female rappers face, though, Latto tells NME that the hardship only makes her stronger. “We value our success even more because as female rappers, this kind of achievement doesn’t happen overnight. Simple as that.” Hopefully, one day female rappers will receive the respect they deserve.

Lil Nas X Teases Upcoming Single “Industry Baby” Music Video

Being a huge pop and HipHop star can be difficult at times. Lil Nas X had a few speed bumps along the way to fame, but he’s certainly blowing up now. Within the last few months, the 22-year-old has put out a slew of great content. Everything from his social media antics to his new music and their accompanying videos has been surperb. The 22-year-old certainly knows how to network and work the camera. Not to mention, his music has spawned millions of streams worldwide. Recently, Lil Nas X just released the trailer for his upcoming music video for “Industry Baby.” The song already sounds like a banger.

                     Lil Nas X Teases “Industry Baby”

Industry Baby
via Pride

Lil Nas X knows how to make a hit record and sell millions of copies. The 22-year-old isn’t just an ordinary superstar, though, he’s a mega star. For the last few days, the rapper has been active on his social media platforms. In particular, he’s released a few cryptic TikTok videos that suggested he had a court appearance in relation to his Satan Shoes lawsuit. It turns out that the rapper did have “court” on Monday, but not in the way we’d think.

On July 19th, the young emcee shared a teaser for his court-themed music video “Industry Baby.” In the 2-minute trailer, Lil Nas X is seen acting out his own fictional legal battle against his Satan Shoes controversy. The “Holiday” rapper satirised the entire court case, acting as himself, his lawyer, the opposing counsel and the judge. Furthermore, the star puts himself on trail for selling the Satan Shoes but soon the topic of his sexuality becomes the main focus. When the judge demands to know if he identifies himself as gay, Lil Nas X confesses the truth. Soon he’s sentenced to 5 years in jail and gets thrown in the big house. In true Lil Nas X fashion, he’s doing everything in a big way.

                            What We Know So Far

Industry Baby
via Reddit

While the teaser for the video already has fans intrigued, there’s much more to know about the upcoming track. Sources note that the track was produced by rap genius Kanye West and Lil Nas X’s longtime collaborator Take A Day Trip. In addition to a strong creative team backing him up, X will also have an even bigger feature. The ending credits in the teaser revealed that Jack Harlow will be featured on the track. The song just keeps getting better. Fans can catch Lil Nas X’s “Industry Baby” track and music video on July 23, this Friday!

 

Big30 Shows Us Memphis Love With New Video “Mista”

New Memphis recording artist Big30 is the hottest thing coming out of the city with big-time collaborations with Yo Gotti, Gucci Mane, Moneybagg Yo and Pooh Shiesty and over two million streams right now. Preparing for his time to shine in the release of a highly-anticipated upcoming album, he previews the upcoming work with the new lead single, titled “Mista.” A song promoted with a new music video, Big30 shows the love of the people who raised him as he roams around and shares his newfound success with friends and family.

 

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A post shared by KingOfKillbranch (@ceobig30)

Big30 was recently featured on new albums from Moneybagg Yo, Gucci Mane, and the debut album of Pooh Shiesty, Shiesty Season, which debuted at #1 on Billboard Hip Hop at the top of 2021 via Atlantic Records. Plans of a Pooh Shiesty and Big30 collaboration project is also in the works after Big30’s debut. “Mista” is available everywhere via Bread Gang/N-Less. Big30 signed with Moneybagg Yo’s Bread Gang imprint earlier this year.

In two days, “Mista” accumulated over a million views on YouTube. For up-to-minute news on Big30, follow the rising star on social media. Stream the new single here and watch the new visual above.

Cam Wallace Taps Wiz Khalifa For Stylish New Video, “Retail”

Newly signed Motown recording artist, Cam Wallace, makes a trip out to the West Coast to cop some stylish new threads with the T-God himself, Wiz Khalifa, for the release of the new visual to the recent collaboration, titled “Retail.” In the high-definition video, the duo is joined by a group of diverse models wearing fashionable designer clothing. They take turns discussing their individual styles in today’s fashion scene.

Being one of hip-hop’s biggest stars with anthems like “Black & Yellow,” “Something New” and “See You Again.” Wallace couldn’t have picked a better guest to help usher him into the new era as one of the next big stars — ironically coming out of the lone star state. Wallace on working with Wiz Khalifa: “Wiz always brings amazing energy to any song he’s featured on. When I heard his verse, I knew it was a perfect fit. He added an extra level of coolness to the track.”

Both the original and Wiz Khalifa-featured version of “Retail” is available now, courtesy of Motown Records. Wallace signed with the legendary label a couple of months ago and upon signing, re-released his buzzworthy EP, titled 6rings. “Retail” is the perfect jump-on point for any newfound fan ready to learn what Cam Wallace and his hit-making sound are all about. Wallace, a rising artist, made his mark in 2016 with a major production credit on Beyonce’s “Upgrade U” featuring Jay Z. This success opened doors for him, leading to collaborations with Jeezy, B.o.B, Omarion, Justine Skye, Chris Brown, Yelawolf, Rock City, and Lecrae.

Wallace is currently working on his Motown debut, expected for a late-2021/early-2022 release. For more on Cam Wallace, follow the rising star on social media for daily updates and more. Wiz Khalifa just released the 10th-anniversary edition of his debut album and currently finishing up his new album, currently untitled, slated for late-2021.

Wiz Khalifa appears courtesy of Taylor Gang/Atlantic. Watch the new visual above and stream 6Rings, below.

Bobby Lytes Calls Out The Barbz For Stirring Up Rap Beef

Despite all the great music female rappers make, not all of them receive their “flowers.” For one, Nicki Minaj still hasn’t received recognition from the music industry for paving the way for upcoming female artists. Not saying she’s the founding mothers of the female rap game, but she’s well deserving of an elite title.

Her fans, the Barbz would agree as well. Although, their latest melodrama with Love & HipHop Miami’s Bobby Lytes may have taken things too far. Lytes has since accused Minaj’s diehard fanbase of being responsible for pinning female rappers against each other. In particular, the reality star blamed them for drudging up old beef between Nicki Minaj and Cardi B. The fans do love drama.

Bobby Lytes Just Wanted To Show Support To Cardi B

The Barbz
via MTO News

Feuding online never ends well. Not to mention, arguing with another star’s fanbase basically ends in social media murder. Furthermore, Bobby Lytes received backlash after showing love to Cardi B on her verse in Normani’s “Wild Side” song. The rapper’s only intention was to show support for all female artists. Apparently, the fans didn’t by the reality star’s act.

Furthermore, the Love & HipHop star took to Instagram to fight back against all the backlash he received from the Barbz for supporting Cardi B. On Friday, the star wrote a lengthy message to Nicki Minaj’s fanbase, telling them to “stop spreading the hate.” Additionally, he accused them of acting like a militant determined to pin female rappers against each other. Lytes even addressed Nicki Minaj and Cardi B’s epic 2019 fight, noting that both women have moved on from “that old beef.” The two rap Queens may have moved on with their lives, but clearly the fans haven’t forgotten.

The Barbz Attack Bobby Lytes Again

The Barbz
via TVShowcast

Unfortunately, the Barbz didn’t let up with their backlash toward Bobby Lytes. Many of the Barbz accused the Love & HipHop star of acting “messy” and “sticking your nose in places they don’t belong.” One fan tweeted the comment, “I hate hypocrites! @bobbylytes you were the main one dragging the beef just because Nicki decided not to do the MV with your cousin! You always input yourself into s**t that has NOTHING to do with you! YALL BLAME THE BARBZ FOR EVERYTHING!” Clearly, this Barbz had enough of Bobby Lytes. Furthermore, they suggested that the reality star drudged up the beef between the two rap Queens. The fan took things a step further by alluding to the “BAPS” controversy surrounding Minaj and Lytes famous cousin Trina. So much for showing love to female rappers.

2 Chainz Announces Last Trap Album

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2 Chainz Says No More Trap Music

2 Chainz is always evolving. The music industry is where most rappers get their fan base. However, time and time again rappers like Chainz find different ways to keep their fans engaged and entertained.

In fact, 2 Chainz revealed that his next LP will be his last trap album. The Atlanta legend tweeted:

“This will be my final trap album. Enjoy it.”

The concept for the album is currently unknown. It follows the November release of his last project, ‘So Help Me God.’ In addition, reports teased that he and Lil Wayne are working on the follow up to Collegrove.

Chainz’ Contribution to Trap

The rapper, also known as Tity Boi, remained silent about his upcoming Trap album, yet fans can reflect on his Trap legacy. 2 Chainz released a number of Trap albums during his rap career. His albums consist of ‘Based on a T.R.U. Story’ (2012), ‘B.O.A.T.S. II: Me Time’ (2013), ‘Pretty Girls Like Trap Music’ (2017), and ‘Rap or Go to the League’. Moreover, he released ten mixtapes and four EPs.

From Rapper to Businessman

No one quite knows what Chainz has up his sleeve, but he implied where his interest lies. 

Earlier this month, he announced his investment in a solar technology company.

 “I invested in this company that captures the sun’s energy and stores it for later use, even during the night. It’s like a sun refinery,” he explained.

Fans and the culture are eagerly awaiting some catchy and powerful songs from 2 Chainz. Hopefully the big reveal will happen sometime soon. 

Kanye West & Tyler The Creator Collaborating On “Donda” Album

This year has birthed tons of great music collaborations that we never knew we needed. The world may have went on lockdown last year, but all the newly released music certainly makes up for the lost time. With artists going hard on collabs, it’s difficult to choose which songs take the cake. Speaking of collaborations, Tyler The Creator and Kanye West were recently spotted working in the studio together. Two creative geniuses in one room definitely tells us there’s an epic record on the way.

            The Rappers Work On Yeezy’s Upcoming “Donda” Album

Donda
via Crack Magazine

Kanye West and Tyler The Creator have been considered as rap geniuses, as well as eccentric and controversial talents. Given that the artist’s similarities, it makes sense why they’d get along in the studio. Recently, Ty and Yeezy were spotted recording new music in the studio booth for West’s upcoming “Donda” album. The video footage of the two having a recording sess surfaced online and has since been shared to rapper Consequence’s Instagram. Furthermore, the emcee captioned the video as, “Ye x Tyler. Epic Level. Summer ’21.” Clearly, Yeezy and Ty’s friends believe “Donda” will be a masterpiece.

Moreover, the video footage shows Tyler The Creator standing behind Kanye West whose hard at work on the computer. The whiteboard behind the two emcees shows what appears as the tracklist for “Donda.” Furthermore, the album name is written alongside others like “Remote”, “New Again” and “Come To Life.” Unfortunately, the video doesn’t have any sound, which still leaves fans in the dark about the details surrounding Yeezy’s new album. At least, we can take comfort in knowing that the two have new music coming out.

            This Isn’t Their First Time In The Studio

Donda
via Dazed

West’s “Donda” album hadn’t been the first time they worked in the studio together. They’ve also collaborated on other tracks, such as Tyler’s “Puppet” and “Smuckers” songs. Clearly, Tyler and Yeezy have a great working relationship.

What do you think? Will you listen to West’s new “Donda” album upon its release? Let us know.

NY Rapper Eli Fross Takes His Road Rage To The Extreme

No one likes being caught in the middle of traffic jam after leaving work. However, some drivers just have zero patience for traffic congestion. Upcoming emcee Eli Fross certainly has road-rage issues. The rapper lost his mind after arguing with an unsuspecting motorcyclist in the middle of the street. Soon, their verbal altercation turned fatal when Fross started firing off at the motorcyclist. Clearly, Eli Fross doesn’t like driving with other people on the road.

Eli Fross Has Road Rage Issues

road rage
via WalkLikeUs

Last Thursday, Eli Fross wound up in a verbal altercation between himself and a motorcyclist. Though, their fight didn’t just stop at exchanging a few bitter words between each other. Eventually, the rapper attempted to murder the biker. Obviously, Fross has watched “Unhinged” one too many times.

According to sources, the rapper and his driver were seen arguing with the clueless biker early Wednesday morning in Times Square, New York. When talking down to the motorcyclist didn’t seem to work, Fross fired four shots at the driver. Furthermore, the shooting took place on Seventh Avenue and West 41st street. The police reported no casualties during the violent exchange. The “Grim Reaper” rapper should consider himself lucky for the moment.

The New York Rapper Makes Bail

road rage
via AceShowbiz

Although no fatalities were reported by the police, Eli Fross was arrested and charged with attempted murder, attempted assault, and possession of a loaded weapon. Though, the rapper pleaded not guilty during a court appearance at the Manhattan Criminal Court on Friday. Fross explained his side of the story, stating that “he accidently hit the motorcyclist with his Mercedes.” The biker’s friend shot at him and in self-defense, Fross fired back.

However, the rapper’s story seems suspect after he made bail with $100,000 in cash. His release from jail comes hours after bragging about his record label, RCA, bailing him out. Hopefully, the rapper considers working on his road-rage issues. Better yet, he should avoid traffic altogether.

Bucks Take Game 5 at Phoenix; NBA Finals.

Bucks Take Game 5 at Phoenix; NBA Finals.

What an upset for the Suns! Despite having homecourt advantage, Phoenix loses Game 5. As the Phoenix Suns were leading in the series, Milwawkee Bucks came back to gain control. And, their winning secret happens to be Jrue Holiday. Yet, Initially, it seem to be in the Suns’ favor. Especially, after making 10 straight field goals. Of course, it was an amazing feat. Evidently, the Suns are tied with the Los Angeles Lakers during their Game 5 stint in 2020 Finals for the longest streak in NBA Finals.

Additionally, to everyone watching, the Suns were racking up the points quickly. In the beginning, the Bucks were down 16 points to start game 5 but made an incredible comeback to steal the game back from the Suns.

Then, something switched to put Milwaukee Bucks up in the game. Of course, that something was Jrue Holiday that appeared to be a locked-in scoring machine.

Jrue’s alley Oop steal and pass to Giannis was one of the best plays of the game.

According to ESPN, Jrue recounts his infamous play.

NBA FINALS
Jrue steals and Olley Oops to a waiting Giannis who Dunks in an explosive play. NBA Finals; Milwaukee Bucks, Phoenix Suns

“Giannis took off and he was calling for the ball. At that point, I just threw it as high as I could and only where Giannis could go get it,”

Watch the Final 8 minutes in the game to see how it all unfolded to solidify Milwaukee Bucks to take Game 5. Phoenix Suns were unable to come back at home. Overall, Antetokounmpo scored 32 points, nine rebounds and six assists. Additionally, Khris Middleton added 29 points, and Holiday had 27 points and 13 assists. Milwaukee earned their outstanding victory.

Finally, on Saturday night, the Milwaukee Bucks were victorious over the Phoenix Suns with a score of 123-119.

All Star Weekend: Baseball’s Greatests? 10 Moments

All Star Weekend: Baseball’s Greatests? 10 Moments

All Star Game
All Stars Weekend MLB in Denver Colorado

Finally, MLB All Stars Weekend is back! This time, the All Star Game was held in Denver Colorado. However, was it worth watching? Usually, the All Stars Weekend is a celebration of baseball’s greatest voted by the fans and their peers. However, due to the pandemic, and vaccination rules, a loop hole allowed many to justify simply opting out. So, MLB chose fill ins in a mix and match buffudery that kind of watered down the talent. Ultimately, should players have the choice of opting out or should attendence be mandated ? Often, players are given bonus incentives to play. So, should there a be a deterrant established to dimish the amount of opt-outs?

Let’s Examine All Star Weekend’s Opt-outs:


First, out of everyone voted into the All Star Weekend Celebrations, a total of 11 players opted out of the All Star Weekend Events. Of course, not all Opt-outs were due to injury. And, weak replacements threatened fan’s interest in watching and showing up to the events. Afterall, it’s not just for the players. Most Importantly, it’s also for the fans. 

Understandably, the Astros decided not to be included because of the sign stealing fiasco they can’t live down. Those included José Altuve, Carlos Correa, Michael Brantley and Ryan Pressly. Moreover, Jacob deGrom of the Mets; Yu Darvish of the San Diego Padres; Brandon Woodruff of the Brewers; Also,  Kevin Gausman of the Giants also decided to opt-out without major reason. Then, the justified cases of Mookie Bets, Matt Scherzer, Yadier Molina, and Buster Posey opt-outs due to an actual injury.

10 moments from the All Star Weekend

Accordingly, MLB’s All Star Weekend is must watch baseball with a bit of glamor, a bit of talent flexing, and glorious all star greats. Even though, this year was a little different it still delivered some amazing moments. Those moments  will be talked about for some time. Without further Ado, here are the top 10 moments from All Star Weekend. What wasq your favorite moment?

1. Hank Aaron Tribute- Watch the tribute video

2. Liam Hendriks’ Knuckle ball

Liam Hendriks took the mound in the ninth inning (AL) and delivered a knuckleball to Ozzie Albies.

3. Ohtani Starting Pitching in All Star Game

Shohei Ohtani
via Jamie Schwaberow/Sports Illustrated All Star Weekend, All Star Game Pitching

In the first, Ohtani batted to start this game. Afterwards, Ohtani took the mound and pitched a 1-2-3 inning. In that inning, he successfully faced off against Tatis Jr. and threw pitches over 100 mph against Arenado. Of course, Ohtani is a favorite because he actually understood what this weekend was all about. Additionally, he has talent that spans further than just amazing pitching.



Officially, the young pitcher talked about frist hearing he was going to be included in the All Star Game.

“I was pleasantly surprised to hear that I was chosen as the starting pitcher for the All-Star Game.”

Shohei Ohtani said through interpreter Ippei Mizuhara. Then, he acknowledged the incredible honor it is to be voted into the All Star Weekend’s Events by the fans.

“It’s such a big honor. I didn’t see it coming at all. But when they announced my name, I got prepared, and my main goal was to showcase my skills on the mound. I believe I achieved that.”

5.Vlad Jr. hit a massive home run in the 3rd inning.

The ball came off the bat at 110.2 mph and traveled a staggering 468 feet to left field. This is the longest home run in the All-Star Game since 2015, according to Statcast, surpassing the previous record by 58 feet.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s Homerun Reaction

 

8. Gracious and Remarkable, Shohei Ohtani participates in Homerun Derby in addition to starting in the All Star Game. Hits 28 homeruns despite losing out overall. Juan Soto and Shohei Ohtani’s first-round, double-overtime showdown.


9. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is the Youngest Player Everr to Win All Star Game, MVP. A well deserving title for the superstar especially after getting robbed at the Homerun Derby two years ago.

BASEBALL’S GREATESTS
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is the youngest player to win All Star Weekend’s MVP. via Jamie Schwaberow/Sports Illustrated

10. AL beats NL for the 8th straight win against rivals.

Lil Durk & Girlfriend India Cox Survive Home Invasion

Some people just can’t stand to see others have nice things. Recently, Chicago rapper Lil Durk and his girlfriend India Cox experienced a home invasion at the emcee’s home just outside Atlanta. Though, the star rapper and his girlfriend were anything but victims of the intrusion. In fact, the famous couple acted like the modern-day Bonnie and Clyde, turning the home invasion into a shootout. Clearly, the burglars hit the wrong house. Not to mention, they targeted the wrong rapper.

                              The Home Invasion

home invasion
via Urban Islandz

Of course, any sane person would freak out during a home invasion. Though, Lil Durk and his girlfriend India Cox came prepared to fight the bad guys. This past Sunday, the couples turned into real-life vigilantes when “several unidentified persons” entered Lil Durk’s home in the Chateau Elan neighborhood of Braselton, Georgia.

Furthermore, police reports show that the burglars broke into Lil Durk’s home at 5:14am. Unfortunately for the home invaders, it became apparent that they were ill prepared to take on the rapper and his girlfriend. Law enforcement further revealed to TMZ, that the couple discharged their firearms, turning the burglary into a shootout. Luckily, neither Lil Durk or India Cox were harmed during the violent fallout. They certainly had a lucky break.

                       Lil Durk’s Brush With Crime

home invasion
via Daily Advent

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Lil Durk has been involved in several crimes prior to his recent home invasion. His latest offense took place just a few years back. In 2019, the Chicago emcee and the late King Von faced attempted murder charges, as well as aggravated assault, during a shooting at an Atlanta restaurant. The man just can’t seem to stay out of trouble.

 

Tajana B. Williams, Highlights Black Dance, Creativity

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Tajana B. Williams delivers a powerful and creative short film. With music by Deanté Hitchcock, JEFF & cktrl, and a talented ensemble cast of dancers, this 9-minute film explores the challenges and triumphs of black professional dancers. It showcases their unique stories of strength and camaraderie, creating an impactful and inspiring experience.

About The Film:

Tajana Bunton-Williams is a former professional dancer known for her remarkable performances at Coachella alongside Beyoncé and on the Formation World Tour. With a career filled with award shows, music videos, and prestigious venues, she has always recognized the healing power of dance in communities. Combining her experiences as a Black dancer with her passion for filmmaking, Tajana has created a captivating short film called “Back Beat.” This film highlights the challenges, beauty, strength, creativity, resilience, and unity of Black professional dancers.

 

“I wanted to create a film that honors the Black community by showcasing the voices of Black professional dancers in Los Angeles,” says filmmaker Tajana Bunton-Williams. “The commercial dance industry often hinders the career growth of Black talent and limits their opportunities to monetize their gifts in sustainable ways. Unlike ballet or contemporary dance, hip-hop dancers struggle to establish themselves beyond being background performers for music artists. Their innate gifts and artistry are rarely highlighted outside of music videos or live tours. With ‘Back Beat,’ I aim to empower Black individuals, celebrate their joy, and showcase the vulnerability and storytelling skills inherent in hip-hop dance.”

While the dancers share their challenges, they also express the happiness they find in their experiences. The film emphasizes the unifying power of dance in family gatherings and the reclaiming of ownership over their movements, often appropriated by others. Featuring music from artists such as Deante’ Hitchcock, JEFF, and cktrl, the film captures the essence of Black talent and creativity.

Tajana’s Background 

Tajana Bunton-Williams is a Sierra Leonean Queen, she spent her childhood in London. Currently, Williams calls both Los Angeles and London home. Williams’ dance career fueled her passion for the arts, leading her to become a sought-after visual artist specializing in film, branded content, and commercials. She has directed music videos and live performances for renowned artists like Ari Lennox, Chika, Bas, and more. Additionally, she has created captivating short films that showcase her talent for capturing movement and composing striking visuals. Explore her portfolio at https://vimeo.com/user99366315.

Watch “Back Beat” on Nowness: https://www.nowness.com/series/just-dance/back-beat-tajana-b-williams

“Back Beat” embed code: src=”https://www.nowness.com/iframe?id=6263018760001″ width=”500″ height=”315″ frameborder=”0″ allowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen></iframe>

“Back Beat” Credits:

Director – Tajana B Williams

DP – Kalea Calloway

Production Company Somesuch

1st Assistant Camera Minami Crease

Photography – Tajana B Williams

Duet Choreography – Zavion Brown

Wardrobe – TYDRYN

Colour – Gabe Sanchez, Roundhouse Post

Edit – Tajana B Williams 

Title Graphic – Medar De La Cruz

Please contact Michelle for Andrea or more info.

Tajana Bunton-Williams

Links:

Tajana Bunton-Williams As a Director 

Tajana’s directing style reflects her professional dance career. With extensive experience collaborating alongside Beyoncé and Janelle Monáe, she possesses valuable insights and inspiration from her involvement in groundbreaking creative projects with a worldwide impact. Her passion for dance greatly influences her artistic process, incorporating choreography, abstract storytelling, and vibrant musicality into each of her creations. She is currently working on projects in the music, fashion and branded content space. Most recently, Williams has worked with Ari Lennox, Chika, Victoria Monét and Destiny Rogers.

About SomeSuch

Somesuch is a leading global production company known for its innovative and award-winning commercials, music videos, branded content, and films. It has received accolades from prestigious awards and festivals such as Cannes, D&AD, The British Arrows, Ciclope, AICP, MTV, UKMVAs, and BAFTA. With multiple “Production Company of the Year” titles and the recent honor of “Production Company of the Decade,” as recognized by UK’s Campaign Magazine, Somesuch consistently delivers exceptional work.

Beyond its creative output, Somesuch is dedicated to sustainable production practices and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the industry. With offices in London and LA, it operates globally and represents Serial Pictures in the UK.

Links: [Insert relevant links here]

“Beat Back”: https://www.nowness.com/series/just-dance/back-beat-tajana-b-williams