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    New Video: “Top Tier” – Ninety ft. BenNY

    New York rappers Ninety and BenNY have built strong chemistry that has resonated into large numbers. And with their collaboration project in the works, the two Bronx acts build anticipation with their latest collaborative effort, titled, “Top Tier.” Produced by SloppyJoeBeats and shot by the talented Pixelmotiv Media, Ninety and BenNY stars as high-stakes gamblers betting big while under surveillance by the law.

    Throughout the flashy crime drama, the two rising stars trade slick-talking gritty bars filled with excitement. “Top Tier” is intriguing, persuasive and astonishing. The perfect jump-on point for newly discovered fans as the duo takes things to the next level with Ninety’s latest project, Truth Be Told.

    “Top Tier” is streaming now on Future Ikon Music Group. Watch it above.

    Top Tier - Ninet

    ABOUT NINETY

    When Ninety and Benny team up, it’s always straight bars, and this time was no different. The New York artists hold no bar back as this visual is nothing short of a Classic, The hard-hitting SloppyJoeBeats production opens the way for these two to talk the talk. Ninety is currently gearing up to release a project that is sure to cater to all hip hop fans, both new and old.

    Twitter’s AngelAerin Makes A How To Pack For Protesting

    Aerin Creer or @AngelAerin777 Started a thread on twitter that essentially became a How To Pack For Protesting!

    Twitter users have created a How to Pack for protesting thread on the social media site. The thread may prove useful, especially after the official charges were announced in George Floyd’s murder.

    The city of Minneapolis is under a curfew after the mayor declared so, following the announcement of chargers for Derek Chauvin. The former officer has been charged with 3rd-degree murder and 2nd Degree Manslaughter. Floyd’s family, along with others have expressed anger towards the D.A pursuing the lesser charges.

    As Minnesota prepares for another night of protest and demonstrations, protesters are coming together to help each other get ready.

    Aerin Creer understands that some people may be underestimating the gravity of entering violent protests. Thus she put together a thread that became the:

    How to pack for protesting!

    Before you leave to go protest do your essentials check!

    Make sure your backpack is protesting ready!

    Footwear is key, and a couple of key don’ts during a protest

    Protesting is a full-day of work be ready! Hoodie Size is Everything

    Keep a Low Profile and if you must “LOOT smartly”

    Advice for Photogs, Some Love, and Final Thoughts

    There you have it the complete How To Pack for protesting brought to you buy Aerin Creer. Happy Protesting everyone and for more tips follow the entire thread here!.

    Let us know what you think of the How-To in the comments.

    Rappers Respond To George Floyd’s Murder

    The Hip-Hop community is in outrage over George Floyd’s murder!

    Prominent members of the Hip-Hop community have spoken out demanding justice for George Floyds Murder. Diddy, Cardi B, Meek Mill are just some of the names of Artist who spoke out.

    Diddy initially shared a photo of George Floyd’s name with prayers hands. However, he followed that up with the footage of the gruesome murder with the caption.

    💔 AMERICA THE WORLD IS WATCHING 👀 #GeorgeFloyd

    https://www.instagram.com/tv/CArBKScHoJn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Cardi B message was of the same sentiment echoing Diddy in using the hashtag #EnoughisEnough.

    Meek took another right with a simple bar as his caption to show he was feeling!

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CAqPou3puAJ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    As Minnesota deals with the aftermath of George Floyd’s death, the world is left with a significant question. Where do we go from here? Because we have been here so many times before. It’s like we are stuck in a time-loop when it comes to dealing with police and the murder of Black people. Rappers have expressed outrage, protested, etc. every time, and yet here we are. Not to call the rappers out, but they play such an integral role to influence in this country they have to be held accountable.

    Lil Wayne made a controversial remark while on a Live Stream with Fat Joe. While discussing the Floyd situation, Wayne said: “And if we want to place the blame on anybody, it should be ourselves for not doing more than what we think we’re doing.”

    I’m not exactly sure who Lil Wayne was referring to in that statement, but if he is talking himself and his peers, I agree 100%. Until rappers stop glorifying a life that perpetuates a cycle of violence, crime, and poverty, their efforts are null. As the assigned “leaders” of the black community, they should represent and lead the people in the right direction.

    There are plenty of rappers who deserve acknowledgment for all the work they do, but for most, their actions don’t match their words. Everyone has measures they should hold themselves and others accountable for. The people responsible for the death of innocent black people should be held accountable. Those who uphold a corrupt system that disproportionately incriminates, and abuses black and brown people have an account as well. As do the black and brown people who glorify the life they escaped and watch as spectators when they now have influence.

    Let us know your thoughts in the comments about the hip-hop communities’ response to George Floyd’s death.

    Skooly Proves He Is The “GOAT” In Latest Video

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    Skooly “GOAT” Video Drops

    T.R.U. (The Real University) recording artist Skooly completes the narrative in his visual succession of “I’m Really Him” and “Coachella” with the launch of “GOAT.” Watch the Howard Ross-directed visual HERE. The new visual arrives on the heels of the “Neva Know” ft. Lil Baby visual component also directed by Ross.

    “GOAT” and “Neva Know” come just days after the release of the Atlanta rapper’s long-awaited full-length album, Nobody Likes Me. The 17-track LP features Lil Baby and 2 Chainz with production from Tay Keith, Chophouze, and more.

    Nobody Likes Me

    Nobody Likes Me is available now to stream and download HERE. Complex notes how the project puts “Skooly’s electric rap style and vibrant vocals on full display, showcasing his ability to do lyrical acrobatics . . . while simultaneously flexing his singing ability over smooth Tay Keith production. This project is also very reflective of Skooly’s Atlanta roots, and the internal battles he’s had to try to understand why some people don’t want to see him win.” Earlier this month, Skooly dropped the album’s debut single “Go.”

    Skooly marked the release of his album “Nobody Likes Me” with a fantastic listening party and documentary screening at Atlanta’s iconic Starlight Drive-In Theatre. Fans had the opportunity to enjoy his new music safely, right from the comfort of their cars.

    Skooly New Video Skooly "GOAT" video
    Album for Nobody Likes Me. Image via HypeBeast

    Watch a recap HERE. Prior to the LP’s release, the tested Atlanta singer and rapper dropped a series of appetizer tracks including the Next Friday-inspired “Nasty,” his co-directed video with Ross for “Mulatto,” and the timely “Coachella” which debuted on the would-be first weekend of the Southern California festival.

    About Skooly

    Without bragging or boasting, Skooly quietly instigated one wave after another in his hometown of Atlanta. As a result, he left an indelible mark on the game evidenced by tens of millions of streams and glowing critical praise with Pitchfork even arguing he, “Changed the way Atlanta rapped.

    At 14-years-old, he introduced himself to the culture as part of the influential group Rich Kidz. Among Straight Like That 1 & 2 [2011] and Everybody Eat Bread [2012], he turned up in the studio alongside icons such as Ludacris, Young Thug, and more.

    His voice would be heard by billions on instantly recognizable tags for like London On Da Track’s (“We got London On Da Track”). After solo success on the 2015 mixtape Blacc John Gotti, the Don’t Ever Forget Me trilogy, and a series of fiery singles, he ignites the next phase with his T.R.U. and Atlantic Records debut mixtape, Nobody Likes Me.

    The Success of Nobody Likes Me

    Setting the stage for the project, Skooly shined on the T.R.U. collective’s 2020 debut compilation, No Face No Case. His energy spiked through tracks like “Reliable” [feat. Quavo], “Jefe Shit,” “Pop Off,” “How I Feel” [feat. Quando Rondo & NoCap], and “Virgil Discount” [feat. 2 Chainz], the latter eclipsing 17 million streams and counting.

    In addition to plugs from GQ, Sway’s Universe, Genius, MTV, The Breakfast Club, and more, XXLdeemed them one of “8 Rising Rap Crews You Need On Your Radar. Riding this wave, Skooly comments on his place in the game and secures his future with Nobody Likes Me introduced by the single “Go” and highlighted by bangers like “Never Know” [feat. Lil Baby].

    “I know Skooly is a superstar,” says 2 Chainz. “I’ve been watching him since he was about 14 in Atlanta. As a little kid, he had a Lil Wayne vibe. I’m staying down with him. He’s 25-years-old, and he’s nowhere near his peak. He really knows where to sing and where to put the bars down.”

    Final Thoughts

    What do you have to say?

    Did Skooly prove he’s the “GOAT” with his new video? Are you a fan of his new track/ music in general? If so what are some of your favorite songs by him? And if not what artists do you prefer?

    Leave your thoughts in the comments.

    Jaah SLT Ready For His Close-Up in Fiery “Dottin Up” Video

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    North Carolina rapper Jaah SLT gears up for his spotlight in the fiery music video for “Dottin Up.”

    The rising artist, known for his viral hit “Tuff,” takes us to his neighborhood in this captivating visual.

    A natural emcee brings a crackling energy and a wide range of influences to his music, Jaah SLT confidently struts toward stardom. Packing his pink Nike backpack for a neighborhood tour, the North Carolina shares “Dottin Up,” his new video, premiered by Lyrical Lemonade.

    Jaah SLT video Jaah SLT music video

    Running roughshod atop a minimalist, percussion-driven beat, Jaah strings together a litany of keyed-up punchlines in a hard-hitting cadence.

    “I’m a suburb n**** but I still keep sticks./And I put it on my life this all real sht/My btch so bad she don’t exist./And I’m livin’ real great, these n****s still pissed!” In the video, the rapper takes the streets in his white-on-white getup, shaking his blonde dreads as he smiles for the camera.

    Recent Success

    “Dottin’ Up” arrives as Jaah’s recent single “Tuff” continues to catch fire and climb charts. The Brelly Beats-produced turn-up anthem recently crossed the 1 million view threshold on YouTube, and currently sits on Spotify’s US Viral 50 chart and Rolling Stone’s Breakthrough 25 chart.

    Since its release in September 2019, “Tuff” has steadily gained popularity, especially after gaining traction on TikTok with nearly 300k video creations. It even made its way to urban radio in North Carolina. In February, Jaah dropped his latest EP, titled “2-7-2020,” through Alamo Records. As Jaah’s presence continues to grow following the success of “Tuff,” he is prepared to showcase his true potential. Stay tuned for more exciting things to come.

    The Background

    Jaah SLT, a rapper from North Carolina, gained viral fame with his 2019 track “Tuff.” Combining trap-punk beats with unique vocalizations, Jaah SLT’s music has been featured in popular TikTok videos and has achieved success on platforms like Spotify Viral Charts, Shazam Top 200, and Rolling Stone Charts. As a result, he is transitioning from the internet underground to the mainstream hip-hop scene.

    Final Thoughts

    What are your guys’ thoughts?

    Are you a fan of the new Jaah SLT video? And what are some of your other favorite tracks by Jaah?

    Let us know what you think in the comments.

    Watch “Dottin Up”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lN0fqzlunmY

    Buy/Stream “Dottin Up”: http://smarturl.it/DottinUp

    Buy/Stream “Tuff”: http://smarturl.it/JaahSLTTuff

    Check out the LL premiere: https://lyricallemonade.com/p/premiere-dottin-up-jaah-slt

    ICYMI: Verizon Pay It Forward Live Series!

    Verizon offered free concerts to their users via the Pay it forward live series!

    To help small businesses affected by Covid-19, Verizon hosted the Pay it Forward Live Series. Big-name artists such as Usher, Chance The Rapper, Alicia Keys, and Janelle Monae headlined the music portion.

    Pay it forward Live(PIFL) allowed viewers to support local small businesses in collaboration with Verizon. Having given $5 million to a non-profit, that is distributing $10,000 loans to small businesses. The telecommunications company double-ed down by offering fans free entertainment series and a way to help out.

    During the PIFL, fans can go online to find local small businesses to support. Also, you can buy a gift card to use upon reopening, or you can purchase a meal. Additionally, you can use the hashtag #Payitforwardlive, and Verizon will donate $10 up to 2.5 million.

    Besides the musical aspect, fans got a chance to watch some of the favorite athletes and entertainers play games and have fun. Saquon Barkley, Faze Clan’s Nate Hill, and Team Penske Racing are just some of the names a part of the series.

    Verizon is said to be working on continuing the series into the summer months, as small businesses will still need help. The last concert was May 28, featuring Dave Matthews, who kicked the series off. Fans can still enjoy the latest show via Twitter.

    What do you guys think about Verizon’s efforts to help small businesses through its Pay it forward Live series? Did you get to enjoy any of the content of PIFL?

    Let us know in the comments?

    New Palace Skateboards Clothing Line Drop Tomorrow

    New Palace Drop Friday, May 29th

    Palace Skateboards has had a few recent releases including the Summer 2020 drop as well as new the Palace x Adidas Lucas Puig shoe. Give this other a read HypeFresh article for a review of the Palace x Adidas Lucas Puig collaboration. It seems that the brand is keeping up with the trend of new content. There will be a online Palace drop tomorrow on their website (May 29th).

    The times for the drop are at 11 AM BST, 11 AM EDT, and 8 AM PDT‬
. There will also be a online relase in Japan on Mayh 30th at 11 AM JST.

    What to Expect

    Overall Palace is a great brand. The vibe they bring is pretty on point and funny. The apparel they sell is pretty fresh, but unfortuantely can be pricey. Sadly, that’s just how it goes with streetwear sometimes. Even though the clothing isn’t too cheap it can definitely be worth buying at times. The below tweet shows some of the clothing that will be in the new release.

    Not to take anything away from Palace, but nothing featured above really sparks my interest too much. Most of the above clothing looks a bit bland. I am personally moreso a fan of the content that they have posted on their IG.

    The jersey featured on the left is more so my style. The item featured on the right is a flip-book of filters that depict Jamaal Smith doing a manaul trick. I’m a big fan of anything Jamal Smith related so I can definiteely appreciate that item.

    Jamal Smith Appreciation

    A recent Palce Instagram post mentioned the release of Jamal Smith pro equipment, so whose to tell if other Smith related items will be for sale. This is just a guess but it’s possible a new Jamal Smith deck is dropping, which is never a bad thing. Smith is a hilarious person with a unqiue style on the board. He recently went pro and had this video to accompany the occasion. Check it out below to witness his skills.

    Final Thoughts

    The new Palace Skateboards drop isn’t really my style, but their website features a range of fresh apparel. I’m more so into the vintage vibe when it comes to their clothing, which they definitely have a fair amount of. Hit up their website if you’re bored and looking to treat yourself. Even if you don’t plan on purchasing anything I suggest looking at the captions for their product.

    What do you guys think about the latest Palace drop?

    Are you willing to drop some cash on the newest release? Or are you more interested in anything they’ve previosuly released? What do you think of Jamal’s style? And what are some other brands like Palace that you are a fan of?

    Minnesota Protest Turn Looting, National Guard Requested

    The Minnesota protest that started after George Floyd’s Death turned into looting!

    During the second day of protest in Minnesota, things began to elevate after some people started looting. Tensions have been high since the protest began as police met protesters in riot gear.

    Protest Turn LootingMuch has been made about the reaction police have had to protest in Minnesota over George Floyd’s death, as opposed to the reaction to protestors for opening up the city. Wednesday night, as some protesters began looting and the protest stops being peaceful, the truth was shown.

    Looting

    These protests are too emotion-filled to remain peaceful, and the police know that. When armed white-man took over state capitols across the nation, they were met peacefully.

    Protest

    It’s not only because they are white, but it also because authorities know that privileged white people are fake upset. On the contrary, people who are tired of hearing of black people being killed by police are agitated.

    When people have an emotional motive, they are dangerous, protesters against police brutality have plenty of emotional motives. The police know they are wrong, that their tactics of profiling and discrimination are unfair. Yet, they do not care, many of them anyway because not all cops are corrupt—just any police who has ever thought that there was a “Blue Life” to matter anyway.

    In a series of tweets Governor Tim Waltz had this to say about the protest going on in his state:

    The governor was right because the world is watching, how Minnesota deals with the protest and charges against the police. With the law, it’s complicated; the name of the game is the benefit of the doubt. Depending on what the prosecutors try to convict them with will determine if they are really for justice or just to show face.

    What do you guys think? Will the D.A go for a charge they know can’t stick?

    Let us know your thoughts in the comments

    Kevin Bradley x Nike “Kevin and Hell” Shoes Dropping Soon

    Kevin Bradley Gets his Own Nike SB Orange Label Pack

    Kevin Bradley brings a care-free and fun attitude towards life (give his IG a follow to see what I mean). This is able to be seen through the smooth style that he has on a skateboard. His talent is clear, and it would seem that Nike has taken note of this. Bradley is getting his own Nike SB Orange Label pack that will feature a mid and low-top SB Blazer.

    This is not the first shoe that Kevin Bradley has had with Nike. He previously had his own version of the Dunk. The KB Dunk had a few cool features including a palm tree logo for LA as well as an inner red-lining that was revealed as the shoe wore down from skating.

    What to Expect from “Kevin and Hell”

    Bradley has stepped it up in terms of creativity with his latest shoes for Nike. The “Kevin and Hell” pack has two contrasting shoes that play off the theme of the name. The idea of Heaven and Hell can definitely be seen with these shoes. Although these are solid ideas, after hearing what Kevin Bradley had to say about the inspiration for the designs, I was able to gain a better appreciation for “Kevin and Hell”.

     

    The low-top version of the shoe is inspired by Bradley and his grandmother’s love for the rain. This is where the idea for the cloud swoosh and raindrop on the shoe comes from. Sometimes you just want to kick back and chill on a rainy day, and these shoes are great for that. Velcro straps are usually not my style, but I feel that they work well with this shoe and what it’s going for.

    “I like the velcro straps, sometimes I’m really lazy and I don’t like to tie my shoes. Sometimes I don’t even strap the velcro! You gotta be comfy.”- Kevin Bradley (via Orange Label)

    The mid-top shoe features a red and black color-palet based off of the Stars Wars character Darth Maul. Add to this the velour fabric picked for the design and you have a sleek looking shoe. These shoes are likely better for intense skating than the low-top blue pair. Even if you don’t skateboard this shoe is sure to look solid on you.

    Where You Can Buy the Shoes

    These shoes will not be available for purchase online. Instead, the Kevin Bradley Nike SB Orange Label collection will be sold in skate shops. This might seem inconvenient, but it is actually a nice way to support skate shops during these trying times.

    The “Kevin and Hell” shoes will be for sale starting on June 2nd. A limited number of shops will have the shoes for sale on May 30th. Bradley’s board sponsor, Fucking Awesome, already released the shoes on their website last night (5/27/20), but they were very quick to sell out.

    Follow this link to see if your local skate shop has the shoes, or give them a call.

    Final Thoughts

    Kevin Bradley has a unique and fun style on the board and in the way, he lives his life. I feel that he has been able to incorporate that into these kicks. The low-top SB Blazer offers some stylish comfort for a lazy day. Whereas the mid-top features a more intense vibe that can be brought to the streets of skating. Or if you don’t skateboard, you can still look stylish in some fresh velour kicks.

    What are your guy’s thoughts on the “Kevin and Hell” pack though?

    Do you think the velcros are a good addition to the SB Blazer? Which SB Blazer do you prefer? And what are some of your other favorite pairs of Nike shoes?

    Lastly, let us know your thoughts in the comments.

    Watch: Gucci Mane and Lil Baby Drop off ‘Both Sides’

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    The Summer is starting to heat up thanks to Lil Baby and Gucci Mane.

    With a new project in the works, rap god Gucci Mane has dropped the sunny video for his latest video with fellow Atlanta rapper Lil Baby, “Both Sides.”

    Both Sides is a every man for himself anthem. Lil Baby and Gucci Mane is letting everyone know not to mix them up in their business.

    The visual brought out the entire neighborhood. Check out the visual above.

    George Floyd A Rapper? Ties To H-town and DJ Screw

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    George Floyd was known as Big Floyd when he used to run with DJ Screw and the Screwed Up Click.

    He wasn’t a household name until the video of his death went viral, but George Floyd was more than just a victim.

    So often, when a Black man dies at the hands of police, the media tries to paint the victim as a criminal. With Mike Brown, it was that he robbed a convenience store, Eric Garner was selling loosie’s, and now George Floyd. The first thing reports said about the incident was the man was the accusition of forgery. Every time it’s the same thing, he has committed a crime, resisted arrest, which resulted in his death.

    There is the immediate attempt to diminish everything a person is into an accusation of petty crimes that in no way warrants death as punishment. However, the legacy of the lost is left to be told by people they loved and who loved them. For George Floyd, the outpour of love was instant from his family, friends like former NBA star Stephon Jackson and more. As more details emerge about Floyd, his legacy appears more influential than initially thought, as his part in hip-hop screwed up scene comes to light.

    https://www.instagram.com/tv/CAqPSYcBuKw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    George Floyd was not just a victim; he as a father, a friend, an athlete; he was a person who didn’t deserve the death penalty for an accusation. The four officers involved in his murder have been fired, but we have seen this before as well. They deserve the same sentence they gave George Floyd without a judge or jury. They deserve to known as murders who killed an innocent man and abused their power. Furthermore, their legacy should be that of cowards and written by those they have hurt. Think that’s not fair, neither is George Floyd dying.

    What do you guys think? Do the four officers deserve the death penalty? Or is that a barbaric sentence?

    Lastly, let us know your thoughts in the comments.

    New Song: “I Got You” – Tony Dannaz ft. Sy Ari Da Kid

    After dropping “Shawty Trouble” in 2019, new artist Tony Dannaz reemerged with another explicit sexual escapade in the new single, titled, “I Got You.” Linking up with popular act Sy Ari Da Kid, Tony trade sensual situations for the women of The A to devour just in time for the Summer.

    While Sy delivers a star-studded verse, Tony Dannaz intrigues newly discovered fans and keeps the momentum going for the long-time fans that have been following the artist since last year. Tony Dannaz is gearing up to be one of the freshest new acts in 2020.

    After three years in the making, Tony Dannaz has gained significant popularity in the underground scene with his infectious freestyles and steamy late-night hits like “Sumthin About You,” “Pipe Down,” and “One Night Cha.” Hailing from Texas, Dannaz’s music strikes a perfect balance between being radio-friendly and street-approved, with its creative vulgarity and sensuality. The sky is the limit for this musical Casanova.

    His highly anticipated debut, “I Got You,” is set to release later this year, and it won’t be long before his name is mentioned alongside the biggest names in the music industry and gracing the top of the charts. Stream the sizzling single now and make sure to keep up with Tony’s daily story on Instagram.

    Don’t miss out on this red-hot track. Sy Ari Da Kid makes an appearance, courtesy of his own label.

    ABOUT TONY DANNAZ

    Tony Dannaz is an independent songwriter and rap artist, from Killeen, Texas. A young lyrically
    penetrating artist gaining a reputation for setting fire to tracks both melodically and lyrically. Tony has gained momentum after the newly released intro tease mixtape and video “Mean With It” (A Meek Mill track). Tony has recently worked with well-known R&B artist Sy Ari Da Kid and the single they created together called “I Got You” will be released very soon. Tony is also currently working on an upcoming EP which will be released on all platforms.

    As a performer, Tony brings energy and excitement to the stage but also brings forth real
    relatable lyrics that connect with fans young and old. Tony’s collaborations in the hip hop/rap, pop and EDM universes and inspired by past experiences make his style of music unmatched.

    Stay tuned to Hypefresh for the latest news in hip hop and the culture!

    🎧Hear Me Out: Jacob Latimore is Fire

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    The Chi’s, Jacob Latimore has a voice beyond the TV screen.

    The 23 year-old plays Emmett, a young adult experiencing growing pains set in today’s Chicago. You may recognize Latimore from Black Nativity, Ride Along, and Maze Runner. However, the talented star saw his career beginnings in music. His debut single, “Best Friend” was released in 2005. You may remember his 106 & Park video countdown favorite, “Like ‘Em All” featuring Diggy Simmons.

    Since then the promising star has done a lot of growing and it’s all audible in the music. It’s evident that Latimore has grown comfortably into his own artist and is able to fully express his emotions. C3 is a fusion of Jacob’s previous bodies of work C1 and C2 and the final installment. The EP features Mulatto, Calboy, and Trevor Jackson among others.

    The preciously crafted project is a smooth collide of early 2000s – mid 2000s R&B with the perfect amount of new age R&B. Don’t just take my word for it. Listen to C3 above and let us know what vibe it gives you below.

    Colin Kappernick and George Floyd: The Power in a Knee

    One lost his life, the other his Job, but George Floyd and Colin Kaepernick are forever linked to kneeling.

    Neither Colin Kaepernick nor George Floyd is the first of their kind, yet as African Americans’ most recent martyrs, they are linked. We have seen both the activist pro-athlete and the black victim of police brutality. However, never have we be presented with such explicit contrasting imagery that illustrates the clear difference race makes when it comes to something as simple as kneeling.

    When Kaepernick began his protest, the images of Eric Garner were clear but apart of a memory. Contrastly, the murder of George Floyd is a current direct reminder as to why Kaepernick began his protest in the first place.

    The Backlash players received for “taking a knee” was downright disgusting. Even more, the fact that a peaceful protest received such hate and disrespect revealed America’s true colors. In an attempt to hide their true intentions, critics of Kap and friends tried making it about patriotism and the troops. The truth, though, was always clear that the problem wasn’t the kneeling; it was who was doing the kneeling.

    From the beginning, Colin Kaepernick said his protest was to bring awareness and change to police brutality in the black community. With countless names to mention from before his rally and after. George Floyd is the latest victim of the same problem Colin is trying to fix actively.

    I didn’t watch the video of George Floyd’s murder, because I know how it ends. An innocent black man(despite other news outlets mentioning reports of forgery) was killed by a trained and paid white public servant. I’ve already experienced the trauma of hearing a dying man plead, “I Can’t Breathe.”

    We have lived through this experience multiple times; the question is, what can we do to makes things different going forward?

    There is no clear answer to that, anyone who says otherwise is crazy. However, one thing we, as in black people, can start doing is more a stop. We can stop supporting the fake activist of social media and start encouraging the real. Celebrities today participate in social media, and we eat that up. While it’s people like George Floyd who are dying in the streets in real life and all he gets is a hashtag and a T-shirt. We get caught up in hearing what Celebrities think about events without requiring them to even have knowledge.

    http:/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7b5hJ0G_9c

    Activism in the past required sacrifice, you couldn’t just say you were with the cause, you had to show. Colin Kaepernick is the closest thing to that type of activism we have from celebrities of today. The difficulty of being a man in his prime, playing the sport of your dream, and giving that up for others is only imaginable. However, that is what Kap did and continues to do as he fights for social justice. Not only did he sacrifice his Job, but he also continues to support the mission through various efforts.

    Colin Kaepernick and George Floyd are victims of White America’s desire to control it’s African American brothers and sisters. We kneel it’s a problem. We get mad when you kneel on us; it’s a problem.

    Kap is still here, though, and deserves our support now more than ever. While I didn’t watch the video, I saw a still picture of the incident. Police Officer Derek Chauvin doesn’t look too old or out of touch with information of the last decade. One might even assume he also has heard of Eric Garner or Philando Castle. One could go even further and say he has at least listened to the slogan “I can’t breathe” or at least seen it on a shirt.

    Derek Chauvin

    From the look of his face during the still, Officer Chauvin was more than aware of all those things. He was knowledgeable, and that’s why he pressed down just a little harder because he thought to be able to say anything was breathing too much. There was a sense of Pride in Derek Chauvin’s face as he looked in the camera phone of an onlooker. It said, “Yeah, so what? I am a cop, and he’s black.”

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