A music video shoot with up-and-coming Chicago rapper THF Lil Law turned wild after foes began firing at each other at the intersection of W. 44th Street and Princeton Avenue on August 25, 2024. In the deluge of more than 76 bullets recovered at the crime scene, miraculously no one was injured.
The incident was reportedly sparked by a lyric from Lil Law, directed at fellow Chicago rapper Boss Top, currently locked up. The diss track got quickly sparking some life into the numerous tensions that run deep within the city’s drill music scene, where lyrical attacks frequently spiral into real-world violence. According to witnesses, the hit was called and executed by associates of Boss Top, who opened fire on the set in response to the perceived slight.
The Chicago rap scene, especially the drill music subgenre, has been the perfect voice for the raw portrayal of street life and often violent scenarios. This most recent incident only adds to the increasingly disturbing overlaps between art and reality, where lyrics in one realm seem to have all too frequently portended death in the other. While dishing and rivaling are something normal within hip-hop, when it comes to the drill scene—especially in Chicago—they most often turn from battles of words to that of gunshots.
Following the shots that rang out, THF Lil Law went on social media to reassure his following of fans that he was okay. It was kind of a relief from the shock and awe. He said in very few words,
“I am good, y’all. Appreciate the love.”
This shooting underscores that for all the good and bad of drill rap, one of its most alarming characteristics is the utter blurring of the line between entertainment and the real world—with consequences so deadly. As police investigate further, the incident calls into question the broader role of music in repeating patterns of violence and how the natural life span of music culture can be managed to avoid further tragedies.
The prominent rapper and fashionista Pusha T aims to bring back one of the more iconic hip-hop fashion statements: the Run-DMC sweatshirts of the 1980s. During an appearance on the podcast “Ghetto Runways,” Pusha T was quite adamant about his continued efforts in trying to get Adidas to remake the legendary sweatshirts. His plea is deeply rooted in great respect for Run-DMC and the desire to keep the original style which once turned out to be a symbol of hip-hop culture.
“I’ve been talking to Adidas for a while now about bringing these sweatshirts back,”
Pusha T said during the podcast.
“These designs are more than just fashion; they represent a pivotal moment in our culture. I want to preserve that core of the original with just a few modern tweaks, as a sign of respect to what Run-DMC created.”
Pusha T’s relationship with Adidas has been one of longevity, as witnessed through a number of successful collaborations. In 2019, the rapper inked a multi-year deal with the company to further solidify his standing within both hip-hop and streetwear circles. His various endeavors with the brand, including limited sneaker releases and apparel collections, have merely strengthened his positioning as an important figure in the company’s continued linkage to hip-hop culture.
The original Run-DMC Adidas partnership is the stuff of fashion history. Since their first collaboration in the mid-1980s, this was one of the very early and significant link-ups between a hip-hop group and a global sportswear brand. The bold, no-laces Adidas sneakers, worn by Run-DMC together with sweatshirts to match, became some kind of uniform for the fans and a vivid reflection of what the group was all about: gritty, street-smart, energetic, and very loud. This collaboration not only raised Adidas’ credibility in the fashion world but also defined what could be called the junction of music and fashion. It opened the door for future artists and brands.
VIA-YouTube/Ghetto Runways
This move by Pusha T sparked conversations about what would happen if Run-DMC sweatshirts ever made a comeback. The sweatshirts will be seen by long-time hip-hop heads as pieces of nostalgia from a time long forgotten, bringing them back in memory to the golden era of hip-hop. An introduction of these sweatshirts may bring that feeling back and give a whole recent generation a taste of the timeless style that defined a movement.
“It would be huge to bring these sweatshirts back-not only for Run-DMC fans but for anybody who really knows anything about the origins of hip-hop fashion,”
Pusha T said.
“It’s about paying respect to the past while still keeping relevant with today’s culture.”
The revival in mention would also further concrete the timelessness of the Run-DMC/Adidas phenomena, a testament to how such marriage between music and fashion is just as potent today as it was almost four decades ago. Whether this actually materializes remains in the sights, but Pusha T has definitely put the topic at the forefront, reminding us of just how iconic fashion can influence culture.
Cardi B isn’t a stranger to living a life of luxe, and her newest splurge on iced-out ice is no different. The rapperand style icon recently treated herself to some dazzling new pieces from Pristine Jewelers-a brand she has been loyal to for years. Taking to social media, Cardi B didn’t just flex her stunning new bling-she made it clear that quality is just as important as sparkle.
In her words, Cardi B proudly says:
“Every Diamond has a mf certificate”
this is to say that with her, no diamond exists without its certification. This goes to say that she does not only display her luxury but to make sure that everything she possesses is indeed of excellent quality and valued appropriately.
Cardi B gifts herself some jewlery from Pristine Jewelers.🥶💎
“Every Diamond has a mf certificate”? 😂 pic.twitter.com/d6EgZ1WKmr
Pristine Jewelers has been a favorite celebrity stop for years, conjuring up simply exquisite customized pieces. And rightly so, considering every minute detail enclosed within a single piece with flawless diamonds. Each of these pieces Cardi B purchased is unique to herself, reflecting not only the artistry of this great brand but also her great taste.
VIA-X
The trend is that because this rapper has focused on certification, the rising trend among celebrities would be investing in certified high-end jewelry. Operating in a world where many times authenticity is questioned, the result of having a certificate for each gem ensures that the diamonds are not only authentic but ethically sourced and of the quality they claim.
Cardi B’s choices don’t only make headlines, but also to set trends. And with any luck, her insistence on certified diamonds will encourage her followers to be a little more selective when buying their own bling. As always, Cardi B is moving and shaking the worlds of fashion and high-end style, one glittering gemstone at a time.
Philadelphia has a new culinary hotspot, brought to you by Beanie Sigel, the former artist under Jay-Z’s Roc-A-Fella Records. Sigel, known for his gritty lyrics and deep connection to his roots, has ventured into the food industry with his new food truck, Grab & Roll: Wings & Bowls. The truck officially opened on August 28, 2024, and has already become a beloved spot in the community.
Jay Z’s former artist Beanie Sigel quit rap and opened his first family food truck business called Grab & Roll, Wings & Bowls in Philadelphia. PIC.TWITTER.COM/JWYHEORQYB
Beanie Sigelwas born Dwight Equan Grant, a man who has loved food all his life. This business is a long-time aspiration he has finally fulfilled, reflecting his love of food and community. Sigel has expressed his excitement, adding that this launch makes him proud. This food truck is more than an enterprise; it is one sure way of leaving something lasting for himself and the family.
Grab & Roll offers several dishes, but the menu star must be the “Bully Burger.” This signature dish features two ground sirloin and ribeye patties, steak, beef bacon, gouda cheese, lettuce, pickle, and “Special Mack Sauce” on a toasted Bavarian pretzel bun. It’s a mouth-watering concoction that’s quickly become a favorite among locals.
Beanie Sigel announced the launch of his food truck, Grab & Roll, Wings & Bowls, through various platforms, including social media and local news outlets. He shared his excitement and details about the food truck on TikTok, where he received positive feedback. The food truck has also been featured on websites like Roaming Hunger, highlighting its unique menu.
The opening of Grab & Roll has been met with huge local fanfare. Fellow artists and community members have begun to show up to sample the food and celebrate the beginning of a new dream, testifying to the deep attachment Sigel feels to being born and raised in Philadelphia. This support is the bottom line of his greatness in wanting to give back positively to the community.
Sigel also focused on the demand to serve halal food so that all customers could be served. This is evident from the sales of his food products, so everybody can be assured of enjoying the delicious offerings of Grab & Roll.
In interviews, Sigel said that he wants the food truck to be where people get fed great food while communicating with each other. He is excited about this venture and hopes to make his customers feel welcome. His new chapter in life continues to serve as a beautiful intersection of love for music and food.
via-Getty images
Generally, the community has welcomed Grab & Roll positively and friendly. There is something excitingly different about what this store does compared with traditional dishes. The food truck has quickly gained a continuous presence in Philadelphia, and it is noted for its savory food flavors and creative menu.
Besides his music, Beanie Sigelhas had other business ventures. He launched a clothing line called State Property after the movie series he had been starring in. The brand involves urban streetwear and has helped bring more money into his accounts. He has also invested in real estate to further diversify his income streams.
Beanie Sigel became prominent in the late ’90s and early 2000s as a member of Roc-A-Fella Records, developing close relationships with Jay-Z and other artists like Freeway. His debut album, “The Truth,” was critically and commercially successful. In addition to his solo career, Sigel formed the group State Property, comprised of a few different Philadelphia artists.
Along with his music career, Sigel has also dabbled into the trade of acting, showing great speed in the versatility of an entertainer. With Grab & Roll now up and running, he adds another feather to his cap, showing that his talents reach so far past the music world.
Angelina Jolie, once more, did not hold her back from being compassionate and kind during the 2021 Venice Film Festival. During the red carpet premiere of her Marvel film, “Eternals,” Jolie was seen having a heartwarming encounter that quickly went viral.
As Jolie was walking down the red carpet, she stopped beside a woman who is confined to a wheelchair due to her ALS, Giovanna De Donato. Not only did she just pass by; instead, she went down on her knees and clasped Giovanna’s hand, speaking with her. Captured by cameras, it was an instant heart-stopping gesture for millions around the world.
Angelina Jolie kneeled down to meet a fan with ALS at the Venice Film Festival red carpet. PIC.TWITTER.COM/4FBONSI3QV
Outside of the Sala Grande, onto the red carpet with all its glamour and glitz, Jolie did manage, however, to acknowledge one fan in a wheelchair, Giovanna De Donato, a woman afflicted with ALS. ALS is a progressive disease where nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord deteriorate, weakening muscles. Among all the glimmer and the usual bustle associated with the red carpet, Jolie was in a position to acknowledge Giovanna and her condition.
But Jolie did not let this happen. She did not just walk past the lady. She stopped short, knelt down right beside Giovanna, and took her private talk with her to a whole new, personal, emotional, and time-consuming level. She held Giovanna’s hand in hers, looked straight into her eyes, and spoke with all the warmth and gentleness one could muster, showing that deep sense of empathy and respect. And with that simple yet ever so profound gesture, this act touched many hearts and showed that, truly, Jolie is one who concerns herself for others.
The moment was soon in the frame of cameramen and videographers present on the red carpet. In hours, pictures and videos began to go viral across social media platforms. Onlookers and fans were touched by Jolie’s act of pure empathy, calling the moment “heartwarming,” “inspiring,” and “a beautiful display of humanity.
But this was contrary to the routine dress of celebrity walks on red carpet occasions, as glamour overcasts moments of actual communication. Social media were filled with accolades for Jolie as many gave kudos to her for taking the time out to acknowledge a fan struggling with a serious health issue. Public admiration was reflected in everything from entertainment news sites to major news outlets that reported on the story of Jolie’s compassionate behavior and the depth of emotion with which she greeted this encounter.
Angelina Jolie has never been a stranger to humanitarian work. As one of the Special Envoys for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, she has participated in numerous campaigns on behalf of human rights, refugee rights, and access to healthcare. The actions of Angelina Jolie in the Venice Film Festival are part of the persona people expect from her as a caring advocate for the most vulnerable members of society.
Apart from her work on refugees, Jolie has also actively raised her voice against health issues. She shared publicly her personal health struggles, including a preventative double mastectomy and removal of her ovaries due to a high risk of cancer. That in itself made her iconic, as her openness with regard to her health was fearless, and she has thus remained an object of strength and empathy.
The meeting of Jolie and Giovanna sent a pulse to the hearts of many even though it also put into light ALS which is usually never discussed within the public and social platforms. This is because, as ALS affects a small percentage, these rare dramatic moments send much attention to the challenges people with the condition face.
This moment also shows the power of celebrities to be able to highlight social issues and health conditions that exist in society. All she had to do was acknowledge a fan with ALS, and Angelina Jolie could make a disease that’s kept behind closed doors a bit more human, all through some sort of compassion.
Finesse2Tymes recently went viral after he shared a video of himself kicking a woman out of his house for constantly asking him for money. This situation brought up the topic of relationships, money, and expectations, which begs many questions about the complications accompanying them.
In a video captured by his home security camera, Finesse2Tymes expressed frustration about what he seemingly thought was fast becoming an unending trend: women asking guys to blow cash on them. “I’m not about that life,” he said forthrightly. “If you’re here for the money, you’re here for the wrong reasons.”
Finesse2Tymes kicked her out his house because she kept asking him for money 😭💵 PIC.TWITTER.COM/UIYFHKX38T
The story went viral quickly, with social media abuzz about Finesse2Tymes’ position. Some hailed him for the move, calling him out for standing up to what they perceive as a commodity-based way of looking at relationships. In contrast, others felt sorry for the woman, who later used social media to express her hurt and disappointment over the situation.
In a follow-up video posted to his social media, Finesse2Tymes explained the situation. “She asked me for money, and I told her to get out,”Finesse2Tymes said over voiceover accompanying the footage. He explained that this lady continued asking him for money until he asked her to leave. “I’m not here to buy nobody’s love,” he continued, clarifying that he is not in the business of paying out to continue a relationship. The candor is a character for the rapper, whose social media presents real and sometimes inflammatory.
After the incident, the woman took to social media. She shared an emotional response and said she felt hurt and rejected. Scores of users across varied platforms sympathized with her, and the incident started a discussion on how relationships can be pretty tough when there is an expectation of money involved. This incident brought to the fore how money talks can cause much emotional loss and drain relationships.
Finesses2Tymes is no stranger to the spotlight. His music often reflects the tough realities of life in Memphis, where he grew up. He’s built his career on being unapologetically himself, and this latest episode seems to be another chapter in his journey of staying true to his values.
In the video, Finesse2Tymes strongly opposed a behavior he termed a “new wave.” “I don’t know what the new wave is, what the females are talking about, breaking n****s and breaking rappers,” he said. This is not that.” His sentiments pleased many of his fans, who congratulated him for not giving in to the pressures that come with fame and fortune.
Finesse2Tymes has lived a pretty eventful life in the music industry. With his 2022 overnight sensation, “Back End,” he found himself on the Billboard Hot 100 for the first time. Powerfully voiced, lyrically motivational, and with fans growing on Instagram and TikTok, his career took off in 2019 with the mixtape “Hustle & Flow,” showcasing his talent and determination.
Finesse2Tymes has not been a stranger to controversy over his career. Despite claims there is some paperwork revealing the snitching, he has been rumor mill-accused of being a snitch. This came into the limelight in a beef between him and Akademiks, who offered up $20,000 for anyone to prove the rapper had snitched.
In 2023, he publicly revealed that he had three girlfriends simultaneously, which sent social media into a frenzy. Not everyone was accepting of this unconventional relationship arrangement.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams this week made headlines with a curious move during the high-profile operation against illegal marijuana sales. On August 28, 2024, Adams oversaw the incineration of an astonishing four tons of illegal cannabis to make an emphatic statement that his administration was on the take in ridding the city of illegal weed shops. But what he did before the burning caught the public’s attention: he snuffed the weed!
New York mayor Eric Adams sniffing a bag of weed before 4 tons of marijuana was burned by police. PIC.TWITTER.COM/OC6DATQQYW
The action was part of a larger effort called “Operation Padlock to Protect,”an effort to curb illicit cannabis operators. The NYPD has been conducting unannounced checks on some 4,000 smoke shops since spring, with long-term closure for more than 1,000 found to have operated without a license. Seizing and destroying four tons of illegal marijuana was thus quite an important victory within this ongoing battle.
Adams was serious with commitments, standing in front of the huge pile of cannabis-the haul that was seized by the police. He drew gasps from the onlookers as he tried giving out a sniff before the cannabis went to the fire. “We’re going to destroy illegal cannabis in this city,” he announced, about to attend “It’s not going to go in our neighborhoods”.
Well, it would appear that Mayor Adams wanted to smell the weed. It wasn’t merely a stunt; it was a statement: Adams wanted to hammer home his point that unregulated cannabis products could be laced with harmful chemicals. “What they are smoking is the chemicals,” he warned, trying to make his point about how dangerous illegal weed can be to one’s health. With that whiff, Adams was drawing attention to the gravity of the situation, unafraid to get up close and personal with the problem.
VIA-x
After his flamboyant sniffle, Adams seized a crane to hoist the weed into an incinerator.The mayor further stressed, however, that the burning of cannabis was not about disposing of illegal products but, rather, the way of safe disposal for the environment. “By burning the cannabis, it doesn’t remain in our landfills. It doesn’t remain on our streets,”he said. Adams pointed out that landfills of dumped weeds might be rummaged through, continuing to create more problems, rather than solutions.
However, burning the weed did not get a thumbs up from everyone. Most well-wishing environmentalists expressed their worry about the burning of excess cannabis. Besides the environmental contestations, Adam promised the public the burning process was safe; however, people were worried that there might be air pollution or harmful emissions from the burning cannabis. The debate over which is the best way to dispose of illegal drugs is still rolling, and others have come up with such alternatives that may not be damaging to the environment.
via-Yutube
No surprise here, as Adams’ actions met a storm of varied reactions among the public. To the chagrin of supporters, many hailed him for taking proactive action against illegal cannabis shops, stating that the products being out of any control are truly a menace for public health. They find the mayor’s determined move suitable for protecting New Yorkers from possibly dangerous substances.
via-Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office
Not everyone is on board with this approach. Using sharp words, some critics have expressed frustration, implying that the mayor’s emphasis on cannabisenforcement detracts from the ills that truly haunt the city, like affordable housing and more general public safety concerns. They believe the resources could be used for community services such as education and housing rather than what they describe as a continuation of the “War on Drugs.”
Actions by Mayor Adams have broadened the debate toward balancing incisive public safety and personal freedom, the role of government in regulating cannabis, and the best way to ensure that New Yorkers are well. It’s a debate likely to continue as the city navigates the complex landscape of cannabis legalization and enforcement.
A retired New York City Transit Police and captain with the NYPD, Adams had over 20 years combined with both departments. He was loud and clear on police brutality and innumerable reforms needed in the department.Brought into office in 2013, and the first African-American to take this position, Adams was re-elected in 2017. As mayor, he focused on public safety, reintroducing a plain-clothed police unit in addition to enacting a zero-tolerance policy on homelessness in subway cars. He provided leadership and activity on economic recovery and disparity within the city.
But as he moves to address the problem of illegal cannabis, Adams himself is battling several different lawsuits and a federal probe. Adam’s campaign has come under scrutiny mainly due to questions over its fundraising practices. He also faces a civil lawsuit filed against him charging him with sexual assault, said to have taken place in 1993. Adams has denied all charges levied against him, but these other issues have further complicated his tenure in the mayorship.
Mayor Eric Adams’s decision to sniff illegal marijuanabefore it was incinerated may have seemed a quirky moment, but the truth is that this forms part of a wider strategy to dive headfirst into keeping the house in order. Agree with his methods or not, there’s little question that Adams is making a message. Thus, as New York City demonstrates its ongoing struggle to make sense of marijuana regulation, public health concerns, and environmental responsibility, Adams will, for a likely very long time, continue to have his actions be one of the most concentrated talking-point issues.
The stream surge does not stop for TUL8TE nor does his growing style, as evidenced in July 2024 with his album “Cocktail Ghena’y”. This is an artist cloaked in mystery and not the focus of marketing or promotion, nor propped by label machinery; nonetheless, the anonymous artist has been famously streaming worldwide with over 10 million combined streams across giant platforms Spotify, YouTube, and SoundCloud. This is a testament to his blossoming influence as an independent artist, with the album making it to the Spotify Viral 50 charts across the world.
Egyptian artist @TUL8TE’s latest album, ‘Cocktail Ghena’y’ has reached over 10 MILLION combined streams with no marketing or label backup.
The album has also broken into the Spotify Viral 50 Global, Moroccan & Saudi Arabian charts respectively. PIC.TWITTER.COM/H2XFUXCFGE
TUL8TE quickly found his place as perhaps the most discussed figure on the market-not only because of his music, but also because of all the mystery surrounding his identity.
Artists like Sia and Daft Punk already hide their identities from the public, and TUL8TE uses kindred spirit through a masked attitude that bars all optimistic sights into his identity. This has served to raise the mystery around his person, drawing people to him with a strong fanbase that spills onto social media sites like TikTok and Instagram to keep up with the enigmatic artist. The veil of anonymity he wears lets the music be front and center and develop a connection with the fans that goes beyond the artist-audience relationship.
“Cocktail Ghena’y” is one of the most important milestones in TUL8TE’s career. The album has resonated with listeners from around the world, amassing over 10 million streams-the impetus for the album was organic, without the backing of a major label or extensive marketing campaigns. The album’s topping Spotify Viral 50 charts in multiple regions-including Morocco and Saudi Arabia-in less than a year, really underlines its widespread appeal and organic growth of TUL8TE’s fanbase at best.
This album is quite different from his previous work with TUL8TE, which combined hip-hop, pop, and indie styles in a peculiar way. With “Cocktail Ghena’y”, TUL8TE explores pop so much more, borrowing prominently from 90s Egyptian pop influences. Probably most notably, this comes forth in the album’s hit single “Habiby Leh”, which reaped more than 4.3 million views on YouTube and crowned itself a trending hit. This is the nod toward 90’s Egyptian pop, the sound that was popularized by icons such as Amr Diab; it’s a retro look back and rebirth into a modern style.
Cocktail Ghena’y” has been an event of euphoria for some with its polished production and plethora of nostalgic references; for others, it has had them hotly debating its critique and fandom. For its throwback to early 90s Egyptian pop alone, critical praise was highly noted for being invidious and adroit. Some critics even believe that this is a traitor to his style, which he sacrificed to get more commercial appeal.
This critique would suggest that, though the album has achieved what it wanted through such success with a wider audience, maybe doing so came at the price of what made TUL8TE different from any other independent artist. The brighter his future seems in the world of music, the more influential TUL8TE gets. Not many of his contemporaries can grasp the essence of 90’s Egyptian pop while modernizing the sound and opening it to the globe. This mystery of his identity only brings more intrigue, solidifying this enigmatic figure deep into the music world.
Coldplay is now officially a member of a very exclusive billion-dollar club, this time with Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour.”The band’s “Music of the Spheres” tour has pulled in over a billion dollars—nearly $ 1 billion, to be more specific—marking it as the first rock tour to achieve that milestone and the second tour overall. It’s not just the significance of Coldplay’s longevity but also the band’s ability to hold an audience in rapture.
Coldplay joins Taylor Swift as the only artists to have a tour gross over $1 BILLION. PIC.TWITTER.COM/VBWVT96QFY
It was quite a journey for Coldplay to achieve such a milestone since by August 25, 2024, the band had sold close to 9.3 million tickets. Some dates remain on the calendar but are on track to break the 10 million mark. The success cements Coldplay’s status as one of the highest-grossing touring acts of all time and further secures the group’s legacy as one of the most elite artists. They become the 11th artist to join the billion-dollar Boxscore club and one of four British acts to do so, a list that includes legends like Elton John and Paul McCartney.
Starting on March 18, 2022, in Costa Rica and finishing on November 16, 2024, in New Zealand, the band held the “Music of the Spheres” tour. Let’s off in support of Coldplay’s ninth music album, ”Music of the Spheres”, and their upcoming tent album, ”Moon Music”. The tour is advertised to have a new production that turns out to be emotional — Coldplay turns out to have dealt with that kind of artistic energy with focused outcomes.
via-Jordi Vidal/Redferns
Chris Martin, the band’s charismatic lead singer, revealed what this meant to them. “It’s been a dream come true,” he said of the experience touring in such grand style. Coldplay has put their heart and soul into this tour, ensuring every performance isn’t a concert but an experience one would have never forgotten. That relationship with their audience is reflected in the remarkable energy that seems to seep from every venue they play.
One of those shows that helped take the act into the rarefied air of the billion-dollar career business came on June 8, 2023, at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. This night was standout; surely it had to be, in terms of how the band relates to the people in the audience. That, according to Chris Martin, is because “it was the best fucking show ever,” related to the energy and passion he always puts into every concert.
via-curlytales
Coldplay’s commitment to their fans shows their willingness to change and grow. Additional European dates for summer 2024 have just been announced, answering the fans’ high demands. This contagious excitement reflects deep gratitude for their years of support. Martin shared that the tour has been a dream come true, allowing the band to connect with fans worldwide and share their music on a grand scale.
Beyond the numbers, Coldplay‘s environmental initiatives have made a huge difference: the band has made giant strides to shrink its size by 59% by reducing CO2 emissions compared to earlier tours. This includes powering shows with a mobile rechargeable battery and planting one tree per ticket sold. This commitment to sustainability gives added meaning to its concerts, which is crucial and serves a purpose in terms of enjoyment and saving the planet.
via-billboard
Coldplay’s “Music of the Spheres” tour keeps making headlines and can’t avoid being compared with Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour.” Swift’s tour is on pace to gross more than $2 billion, outpacing the previous record and further solidifying her status as a global superstar. But that doesn’t make Coldplay’s feat any less impressive.
via-gmanetworkBut not to be outdone, Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour”also garnered headlines. Beginning on March 17, 2023, in Glendale, Arizona, and running through December 8, 2024, in Vancouver, Swift’s tour has been widely referred to as a career-spanning tour for her entire discography. She performs over 44 songs in a three-hour concert, with complex, constantly changing stage designs and innumerable costume changes. Such has been the commercial success of the tour that has equaled critical acclaim, putting into focus her dedication to making moments for her audience. But Coldplay implied that a sea change in their career was in the wind.
Chris Martin said last year that Coldplay would no longer make new records starting in 2025. This surely raised several questions among their fans about what was in store for them. But certainly, Coldplay does not bid adieu to music. They might instead collaborate with other artists, work solo, or put on more live performances that will keep their audience connected to them.
Reaching the billion-dollar milestone only in ticket sales for Coldplay does not indicate the number itself but instead a party of creativity, connection, and dedication to the most loyal fans. As they continue their journey, fans still wonder what’s next for this iconic band. Whether through powerful lyrics, stunning performances, or their environmental initiatives, Coldplay demonstrates that music can profoundly impact both on and off the stage.
On this sweltering August night in New York City, Big Sean had an album release party that was more about celebrating resilience than it was about the music. Emotional, reflective, and connecting, this was the beginning of something: his highly anticipated album, Better Me Than You. Fans have had a peek into the artist’s journey over the last few years.
And in his turn, while speaking about everything he passed through to deliver the album, Big Sean started his own tough battle with COVID-19, and for many days, he was struggling with the physical and emotional hurdles.
“COVID-19 wasn’t just about the illness. It was about facing fears, doubts, and the fragility of life,”
he shared, his voice were thick with emotion. Aside from taking such a great toll on his health, the virus managed to bring his creating process to a grinding halt, during which time he had to stop and rearrange his life and his art again.
It is these struggles that have deeply influenced Better Me Than You, making it one of Sean’s most introspective projects to date. He spoke candidly about how these experiences pushed him to explore themes of resilience, growth, and self-discovery, ultimately shaping the album into a reflection of himself.
Big Sean’s NYC album release party was not just for the release of new music; it was a deeply personal event in which he connected with his fans.
Big Sean took his time to emphasize how much these intimate shows meant to him—how they allowed him to convey the stories behind the music and, most importantly, to become much closer to his supporters.
“I wanted this to be more than just an album release. I wanted it to be a moment where we all could come together and really feel the music, feel the journey,”
he told the crowd.
It was electric yet intimate, with fans and industry people alike hanging on every word as Sean resumed his journey. Taken full circle by the event, music nights can be both personal and engaging, leaving indelible marks to create lasting memories and bonds between artists and their audiences.
Better Me Than You wasn’t an overnight project. The album was scheduled to drop on 9th August, but Big Sean had to make the decision to postpone the date further to 30th August. And why was that? Perfection: it’s “something I couldn’t rush,” Sean reflected on the delay. He also said,
“Every detail had to be just right, not just for me, but for everyone who’s been waiting on this”.
This decision was a testament to his loyalty toward the craft and his fans. The additional time meant that Sean could perfect the album and organize events to go along with this nicely, such as the release party. It was a move that paid off-the night flowed without hitches and left a lasting memory for all in attendance.
Big Sean had some important singles released before the album: “Precision” and “Yes.” These almost instantly became the fans’ favorite picks from the new album being worked on. These also garnered a lot of buzz and talk, creating a lot of anticipation before the actual release. A different side is shown on every song of his, for example, how he presented harder bars on “Precision” and more of his introspective journey on “Yes.”.
The singles were much appreciated by fans and critics because of contents and wittiness, besides a lot pointing to how the tracks symbolized Sean’s growth as an artist. All these tracks, along with many others, are helping to raise the anticipation levels for Better Me Than You, which might very well go down in the eyes of many fans as the biggest hip-hop release for the year.
And now with Better Me Than You finally dropping, expectations are high up in the air. Already critics have started speculating on its impact, many predicting it is going to be a commercial success and a critical darling. It’s a way of displaying the ever-evolving face of Big Sean’s artistry, underlining his commitment to staying real and growing.
SZA has continued to prove that she’s just as relatable and down-to-earth as her fans. Other than soulful music and heartfelt lyrics, the multi-artist went head-to-head with an OMG fan in a surprising, hilarious message exchange on Instagram that has left the internet in stitches.
It all began when a fan, grappling with the complexities of geometry, decided to shoot a shot with SZA in the DMs for some tips. The fan messaged,
“SZA, I’m failing geometry. Can u give me math tips?”
Obviously, he seeks some advice. But no, SZA is the supreme audio master, not mathematics.
And as always, SZA didn’t disappoint to respond candidly and honestly. She replied once again honestly and with wit:
“Lmaooo ma’am I’m a math dummy I’m not sure what u expected”.
But even as she said she wasn’t any great shakes in math, she’d joke,
“Tell me about the shapes chile how can I help?”
It was one of those perfect oh-so-SZA moments: witty and clear-cut.
When the fan sent her a photo of his homework, SZA took one look, and uttered a line that would go down in history:
“Oh b—h ur cooked.”
The remark, which succinctly encapsulated the dread many of us feel when staring down a particularly obtuse math problem, struck a chord with fans around the world.
It didn’t just stop there; SZA later shared the exchange on her Instagram Story with the caption,
“I appreciate the faith in me.”
The post quickly went viral, with her eventual turn of phrase garnering fans on fans across social media platforms remarking on her candor and humorous outlook. With most people feeling related—struggling with mathematics and asking for help, the relatable nature of the conversation struck the right chord with most. Hence, SZA became more favorite in most of the fans’ eyes.
VIA-X
While SZA may not have solved the geometry problem, she has consistently solved many hearts through her music. Recently, the musical powerhouse was presented with the prestigious Hal David Starlight Award at the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards which is a pretty cool deal. Her album “SOS” has also spent weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, further proof that though math may not be her strongest suit, she’s clearly acing everything else.
Ryan Reynolds has rallied behind the campaign for the introduction of a special category at the Oscars for stunt performers. He said, “Stunt work is an integral part of modern film production, and it has a right to be recognized at the highest level of industry awards.
It’s the impassioned plea put forth by Reynolds, but one that’s shared more and more in the current film industry, where it’s felt that stunt performers should be included in official recognition for their work and dedication. From spine-tingling performances by the likes of Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd during the silent era to high-octane modern-day stunfests like “John Wick” and “Mad Max: Fury Road,” stunt work has been forever integral to movie storytelling.
Ryan Reynolds says he wants to see stunts get an Oscar category someday.
“So many films have smashed it this year. Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd and Chaplin were stunt performers as well as filmmakers. Telling stories with their entire bodies.” PIC.TWITTER.COM/JUTNMRDAYN
The fact that there is, quite simply, no Oscar category for stunts has been a rather bald point with many in the industry for years. Of all the technical achievements honored with categories in areas as diverse as cinematography and visual effects, the sheer physical skill and athleticism of the performers themselves has never been recognized. Reynolds takes it one more step in that direction to address such an imbalance.
But beyond brawn, stunt performers contribute greatly to the telling of the story and the emotional arc of a film. From them can come the thrills, frights, and drama that have audiences gasp. In addition, the increased development with regard to technological capabilities, such as CGI and motion capture, allows for even more fanciful and creative stunts.
The campaign for such a category does raise some important questions-over and above the question of mere safety for these performers. The overall safety standards have improved in significant ways but are still part and parcel of these performers’ profession. Allowing stunt work at the Oscars will also show further just how much they entail, which could put more pressure on the industry so that the performers’ well-being is considered first above other things.
As the film industry advances, it’s important to keep recognizing all of the players in working toward making magic on screen. An Academy Award category for stunt performers doesn’t merely acknowledge incredible talent but registers as an inspiration to future generations in this demanding craft.
Ryan Reynolds’ call to have an Oscar category set aside for stunt performers is a timely and highly important matter in the world of film. This is highly important because, as the film industry grows, the artistry involved through one’s athleticism and dedication to their work in putting their life at risk for unforgettable action should be recognized.
A$AP Rocky is releasing his brand new single, “Tailor Swif,” tonight, and the music world is abuzz with the news. His album, Don’t Be Dumb, was supposed to drop on August 30, 2024, but fans are eagerly waiting. Owing to various delays due to leaks and sample clearances, the fall release has now been pushed further into the season. But Rocky is not leaving his fans high and dry; he gives them the much-needed taste of what is to come with this unexpected single.
The title “Tailor Swif” created a stir of interest and suspicion at the same time, as many have speculated that it is a pun on the name of pop icon Taylor Swift. It has further heightened the anticipation surrounding the track, as the fans and the music amenities alike wonder how this reference will play out in the song.
Musically, “Tailor Swif” promises to be a genre-bending masterpiece, with Rocky continuing to push the envelope of rap and trap into experimental aspects. This track is just about bound to be the pinnacle of Rocky’s innovations with music, combining beats and styles in ways nobody else does. Early reports say the track puts hard-hitting rap on eclectic production for a unique sound that doesn’t fit neatly into a box.
The wait for “Tailor Swif” had started collectively since Rocky first premiered the song live at Rolling Loud Portugal on July 7, 2022. Two days later, on July 9, 2022, the track and its music video fully leaked as the waiting seemed to be unbearable for fans. Rocky also performed the track live for fans at Positivus Festival on July 16, 2022, and with that, he set “Tailor Swif” as one of the highlights of his upcoming album.
First off, the guest list for Don’t Be Dumb is as star-studded as they come, tucking high-profile collabs from the likes of Tyler the Creator, Pharrell Williams, and Metro Boomin. The production credits are just as flashy, repping contributions from industry greats such as The Alchemist and Mike Dean. The powerhouse team behind this lofty sounding project-at least, on paper-means that the fans are sitting at the edge of their chairs for its release.
Let’s hope that, despite the delays, tonight’s drop of “Tailor Swif” will give a tantalizing glimpse into the creative direction and innovative sound of Don’t Be Dumb. The excitement is palpable, with the time counting down toward the drop of the track, and once more, all eyes rest on A$AP Rocky to press the boundaries of music.
Q Money shares new pictures from prison and tells fans, there’s nothing cool about being locked up: “I don’t wanna send the wrong message to the youth” PIC.TWITTER.COM/TLUOSUPAIA
Q Money appeared in several videos on his social media timelines, donning prison attire and looking noticeably subdued. He made the event fairly well by talking directly to his audience, targeted mostly at youth. “There’s nothing cool about being locked up,” he said, followed by an important heads-up on the need for better choices and never heading toward those violent and criminal ways.
The COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with other legal challenges, has delayed Q Money’s case from going to trial. No date has been determined for his trial.
In contrast to that, the personal message by the rapper is juxtaposed with pure images of himself in prison that have evoked some big responses via social media. Many fans reached out in support for Q Money and shared sadness for the predicament he has been placed in, even going so far as to praise him for using his negative situation as a positive message. Others have debated the severity of his alleged crime, reflecting on the broader implications of what he did.
Q Money’s story is more than a personal reflection; it takes that reflection to bigger perspectives on societal issues of crime and punishment. His speaking from behind bars, warning others, serves only to illustrate just how desperately needed are positive role models who can help the younger generation make good choices in life.
Welcome to Hypefresh.com! Before you proceed to make a payment using PayPal, please carefully read and understand the following terms and conditions regarding our services and refund policy:
Service Description: Hypefresh.com offers various services including but not limited to sharing ad space on our website, editorial services, sponsored content, and promotion of brand/business/artist news content.
Service Packages: We offer different packages with varying features and prices. Details of each package, including price, word count, SEO optimization, backlink types, media inclusion, social media promotion, indexing on search engines, and publication timeframe, are clearly stated on our website.
Why Choose Hypefresh: We provide a streamlined process for publishing news stories on our influential platform, reaching a vast audience at an affordable price. Our expert team crafts SEO-optimized content to showcase your brand or business effectively.
Duration of Published Content: The duration for which your article will remain live on our site depends on the package you choose. Generally, sponsored content stays live for at least 12 months, with the option for longer duration.
Backlink Types: Backlink types vary based on the package chosen by the client. Please refer to the package details for more information.
Article Content Requirements: To ensure the best possible article, we encourage clients to provide as much context and information about themselves, their business, or brand as possible. This includes website or social media links, portfolio URLs, detailed information, contact details, and any specific requirements for the article. Sponsored Content Labeling: Depending on the package selected, sponsored content may or may not be labeled as such. Please refer to the package details for clarification.
Refund Policy: We appreciate your business and strive to provide you with the best possible service. However, please note that due to the nature of our services, we do not offer any refunds. Once an article is written and published on our site, it signifies the completion of our service. We may make revisions to the content according to your requirements, with up to 3 to 10 revisions allowed per article. We will only publish the article upon your satisfaction. Personal Information: We do not store any personal information of buyers beyond what is necessary for processing payments and delivering our services.
By proceeding with the payment, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these terms and conditions. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us- (nycier@hypefresh.com) before making a payment.
We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners. View more
Cookies settings
Accept
Decline
Privacy & Cookie policy
Privacy & Cookies policy
Cookies list
Cookie name
Active
Privacy Policy
What information do we collect?
We collect information from you when you register on our site or place an order.
When ordering or registering on our site, as appropriate, you may be asked to enter your: name, e-mail address or mailing address.
What do we use your information for?
Any of the information we collect from you may be used in one of the following ways:
To personalize your experience
(your information helps us to better respond to your individual needs)
To improve our website
(we continually strive to improve our website offerings based on the information and feedback we receive from you)
To improve customer service
(your information helps us to more effectively respond to your customer service requests and support needs)
To process transactions
Your information, whether public or private, will not be sold, exchanged, transferred, or given to any other company for any reason whatsoever, without your consent, other than for the express purpose of delivering the purchased product or service requested.
To administer a contest, promotion, survey or other site feature
To send periodic emails
The email address you provide for order processing, will only be used to send you information and updates pertaining to your order.
How do we protect your information?
We implement a variety of security measures to maintain the safety of your personal information when you place an order or enter, submit, or access your personal information.
We offer the use of a secure server. All supplied sensitive/credit information is transmitted via Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology and then encrypted into our Payment gateway providers database only to be accessible by those authorized with special access rights to such systems, and are required to?keep the information confidential.
After a transaction, your private information (credit cards, social security numbers, financials, etc.) will not be kept on file for more than 60 days.
Do we use cookies?
Yes (Cookies are small files that a site or its service provider transfers to your computers hard drive through your Web browser (if you allow) that enables the sites or service providers systems to recognize your browser and capture and remember certain information
We use cookies to help us remember and process the items in your shopping cart, understand and save your preferences for future visits, keep track of advertisements and compile aggregate data about site traffic and site interaction so that we can offer better site experiences and tools in the future. We may contract with third-party service providers to assist us in better understanding our site visitors. These service providers are not permitted to use the information collected on our behalf except to help us conduct and improve our business.
If you prefer, you can choose to have your computer warn you each time a cookie is being sent, or you can choose to turn off all cookies via your browser settings. Like most websites, if you turn your cookies off, some of our services may not function properly. However, you can still place orders by contacting customer service.
Google Analytics
We use Google Analytics on our sites for anonymous reporting of site usage and for advertising on the site. If you would like to opt-out of Google Analytics monitoring your behaviour on our sites please use this link (https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout/)
Do we disclose any information to outside parties?
We do not sell, trade, or otherwise transfer to outside parties your personally identifiable information. This does not include trusted third parties who assist us in operating our website, conducting our business, or servicing you, so long as those parties agree to keep this information confidential. We may also release your information when we believe release is appropriate to comply with the law, enforce our site policies, or protect ours or others rights, property, or safety. However, non-personally identifiable visitor information may be provided to other parties for marketing, advertising, or other uses.
Registration
The minimum information we need to register you is your name, email address and a password. We will ask you more questions for different services, including sales promotions. Unless we say otherwise, you have to answer all the registration questions.
We may also ask some other, voluntary questions during registration for certain services (for example, professional networks) so we can gain a clearer understanding of who you are. This also allows us to personalise services for you.
To assist us in our marketing, in addition to the data that you provide to us if you register, we may also obtain data from trusted third parties to help us understand what you might be interested in. This ‘profiling’ information is produced from a variety of sources, including publicly available data (such as the electoral roll) or from sources such as surveys and polls where you have given your permission for your data to be shared. You can choose not to have such data shared with the Guardian from these sources by logging into your account and changing the settings in the privacy section.
After you have registered, and with your permission, we may send you emails we think may interest you. Newsletters may be personalised based on what you have been reading on theguardian.com. At any time you can decide not to receive these emails and will be able to ‘unsubscribe’.
Logging in using social networking credentials
If you log-in to our sites using a Facebook log-in, you are granting permission to Facebook to share your user details with us. This will include your name, email address, date of birth and location which will then be used to form a Guardian identity. You can also use your picture from Facebook as part of your profile. This will also allow us and Facebook to share your, networks, user ID and any other information you choose to share according to your Facebook account settings. If you remove the Guardian app from your Facebook settings, we will no longer have access to this information.
If you log-in to our sites using a Google log-in, you grant permission to Google to share your user details with us. This will include your name, email address, date of birth, sex and location which we will then use to form a Guardian identity. You may use your picture from Google as part of your profile. This also allows us to share your networks, user ID and any other information you choose to share according to your Google account settings. If you remove the Guardian from your Google settings, we will no longer have access to this information.
If you log-in to our sites using a twitter log-in, we receive your avatar (the small picture that appears next to your tweets) and twitter username.
We are in compliance with the requirements of COPPA (Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act), we do not collect any information from anyone under 13 years of age. Our website, products and services are all directed to people who are at least 13 years old or older.
Updating your personal information
We offer a ‘My details’ page (also known as Dashboard), where you can update your personal information at any time, and change your marketing preferences. You can get to this page from most pages on the site – simply click on the ‘My details’ link at the top of the screen when you are signed in.
Online Privacy Policy Only
This online privacy policy applies only to information collected through our website and not to information collected offline.
Your Consent
By using our site, you consent to our privacy policy.
Changes to our Privacy Policy
If we decide to change our privacy policy, we will post those changes on this page.
