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href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/joeyech/” rel=”author”>Joey EchPublished: March 15, 2023Johnny Nunez/Getty Images

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Finesse2Tymes might have to increase his name by one number as the Memphis rapper says he is dating three women at the same time.

On Tuesday (March 14), Finesse2Tymes joined the hosts of Angela Yee's Lip Service podcast for a round-table discussion on the time he's served in prison, becoming a fast-rising star in hip-hop and of course, romance, which the salacious show has become known for. To that point, Finesse2Tymes made an interesting revelation regarding his current relationship status—it includes three women all at once.

"I got a situation," replied Finesse2Tymes when Angela Yee inquired about his love life at the 2:54-mark in the video below. "You know, I'm in a polygamy, like, I gotta have more than one woman."

Yee immediately asked Finesse how many women he was referring to and whether or not they know about each other. The "Back End" spitter explained that he and "three" women currently "stay together."

Finesse2Tymes then expanded upon his approach to polygamy when one Lip Service host asked about how he went about presenting the situation to each of the three women involved.

"I ain't gone lie, one of ’em, well, two of them, I did it wrong," confessed Finesse. "I kinda just threw it on ’em. Like, 'This is what it is. I accept what come with you, you gonna accept what come with me.'"

The seasoned interviewers then wanted to know how the women first reacted to Finesse2Tymes telling them about being involved in a polyamorous arrangement.

"It was like an 'aw' moment but at the same time, I'm such a gentlemen and ladies' man, it was kinda easy," Finesse casually explained. "I done had all of them tell me this separately. They like, 'It's kinda easy to accept what come with you because you so humble and so, you know, down to Earth. It's kinda easy. I don't ask for nothing but help from my women anyway."

He later added to the topic: "I felt like it was weird at first like, 'Ain't no woman gonna accept that.' But I thought about my past life and like, women ain't gonna accept that but it's a difference between being a h*e and a woman. A h*e gonna accept it because it's they job to accept other h*es but it ain't no woman's job to accept other women. So, for me to present that, it was kinda weird."

After Finesse2Tymes explained that all three of his lovers came to easy terms with being involved in the multiple partner situation, things on Lip Service became even more lively. The discussion quickly turned to sex and what Finesse's situation is like when it comes to the bedroom. The Memphis rhymer divulged that since his arrangement is, in fact, a relationship, he as well as the three women are only sexually active with himself and each other.

Finesse2Tymes and his love life have been a steady topic of conversation throughout the rap game in recent days. News of his polyamorous relationship with three women comes just days after Finesse spoke on why he broke up with "Buss It" rapper Erica Banks.

"I'm a man, so when I wake up in the morning and me and my woman…when I get up, my woman get up because it's time to cook, it's time to have some sex, it's time to clean up," said Finesse2Tymes in his explanation of why things between he and Banks didn't work out. "And when you get up and you get in your phone, I don't like that. Don't get straight in your phone when you're around a man."

In response to his claims, Erica Banks opined that Finesse was looking for more of a "servant" than a partner but that wasn't the type of time she was on regarding romantic relationships. Days later, on March 12, Erica Banks explained that when it came to sex during their time together, Finesse2Tymes wasn't exactly what she was "used to" in the bedroom but "it was cool."

Watch Finesse2Tymes Explain What It's Like Dating Three Women at the Same Time on Angela Yee's Lip Service Podcast BelowSee the Definitive List of Bizarre Tweets From RappersFiled Under: Finesse2tymesCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 15, 2023Prince Williams/Getty Images

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Young M.A. has released a statement on her health status after fans showed concern when new video of the rapper surfaced online earlier this week.

On Wednesday (March 15), Young M.A addressed people voicing worry due to video of the rapper shared by her barber that left people speculating that the "OOOUUU" rapper is unwell.

"As many of my supporters know I’ve been dealing with various personal health issues the last few years," Young M.A. said in a statement given to XXL. "I recently was hospitalized and was successfully treated for several conditions. I’m doing better now, will take some time but I’m on the road to recovery and look forward to the future. Rest assured I’m in good spirits and everything will be explained in the MUSIC! Plus documentary..Love y’all MAB! Don’t worry I’m good! -M.A."

Young M.A. fans began to show concern on Tuesday (March 14) when video was shared by the rapper's barber @fatsdabarber showing before-and-after footage of the New York rhymer getting an edge-up and retwist.

Fats even faced backlash after people blasted him on social media for sharing the footage, which he responded to on Instagram.

"Y'all got so much to say as if I'm trying to embarrass my dawg," wrote Fatsdabarber. "If she didn't want me to record, she would've told me. Y'all don't know our bond nor our friendship."

He jokingly continued: "What y'all need to do is just send your prayers for her and that's that she didn't have a haircut in a month and she wanted me to bring her haircut back to life, which I did. Thank you for coming, sis [Young M.A], and rocking with me like always. Love ya."

Young M.A. followed up by coming to Fats' defense.

See Rappers’ BirthdaysFiled Under: Young M.ACategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 15, 2023Prince Williams/Getty Images

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Tickets for Drake's It's All a Blur Tour with 21 Savage went on pre-sale today (March 15) and people are going off on Twitter about the price of admission for the cross-country stadium jaunt.

The Her Loss rappers announced the tour on Monday (March 13) via a trailer released on Drake's Instagram page. The duo will be making 28 stops in 21 cities starting on June 16 in New Orleans up to the finale in Glendale, Ariz. on Sept. 5. Cash App card holders got early access to purchase pre-sale tickets on Wednesday, and many of them have been voicing their displeasure about the steep prices on social media.

"Drake smoking d**k with these ticket prices," one person wrote.

"Drake ticket prices are wild for the Atlanta show. I didn’t even pay this to see Beyoncé," another person captioned a screenshot showing $400 tickets for 100 level seats for the Atlanta show at State Farm Arena on July 1.

"WHY ALL YALL SAYING DRAKE TICKET PRICES WILD…do I really gotta sell puss" someone else jokingly commented.

"Drake lost his mind with these tour prices let’s be fr," another fan wrote. "2 floor tickets legit equal my rent."

This will be Drake's first headlining tour since The Aubrey & The Migos Tour in 2018. General tickets for the tour go on sale starting on Friday (March 17).

See Reactions to Drake and 21 Savage's It's All a Blur Tour Ticket Prices BelowSee Hip-Hop Album Cover Art Fans Hated Over the Last Few YearsFiled Under: 21 Savage, DrakeCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 15, 2023Marcus Ingram/Getty Images

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50 Cent is planning to seize a man's property after winning a $6.2 million lawsuit.

Back in September of 2021, 50 Cent's Sire Spirits filed a lawsuit against former director of brand management Mitchell Green, accusing him of taking $2.2 million in under-the-table kickbacks from 2018-2020. In October of 2022,  the court found Green guilty of liable to Sire Spirits for breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, fraud, and unjust enrichment. 50 Cent was awarded a $6,194,293 judgement. However, Green has yet to pay up. On March 14, he filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, according to court documents. Now, 50 plans to take the man's property in order to settle the debt.

On Wednesday (March 15), 50 shared a blog post about the judgement where he is quoted as saying, "I need you out my house by Monday."

50 Cent captioned his own post, "I think i’m gonna put Epoxy floors in this place. I’m gonna keep it and his family pictures around, you know as a theme for the place. LOL."

It looks like 50 is playing back into his Fofty alter-ego from a few years back when he was calling out everyone who owed him bread and hilariously demanding it be delivered on the first work day of the week. It started with Power producer Randall Emmet, who 50 claimed owed him $1 million. 50 pulled the same stunt on Power actor Rotimi, Bow Wow and actor Jackie Long. Teairra Mari also got the "money by Monday" treatment after losing a lawsuit to the G-Unit boss.

See 50 Cent's Instagram Post About Seizing Green's Home After Winning at $6 Million Lawsuit BelowSee Rappers Named After Notorious Crime FiguresFiled Under: 50 CentCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/joeyech/” rel=”author”>Joey EchPublished: March 15, 2023Prince Williams/Wireimage/Getty Images

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Young M.A is now defending the barber who posted video footage of the rapper that left fans concerned for her health.

On Tuesday (March 14), barber to the stars and Wild ’N Out cast member Fatsdabarber hit up Instagram to show off some before and after clips of Young M.A getting a fresh cut. When the videos began to make its round across social media, the conversation became less about the Brooklyn, N.Y. MC getting a shape-up and her dreadlocks twisted and more about fans being deeply worried that Young M.A may be going through some sort of health crisis. Both M.A and Fatsdabarber have since addressed the growing concern.

As Young M.A began to trend on Twitter due to the widespread concern, many social media users turned against Fatsdabarber, adamantly questioning why he would post such videos if, in fact, the "Ooouuu" spitter's health was down bad in some way.

"That barber is completely f*****g wrong and unethical," wrote one Twitter user upon seeing Fatsdabarber's videos. "Young MA whole body language looked like she ain't wanna be recorded and you posted that s**t?"

Another tweeted: "I just feel like that barber never even had to post that video of Young MA, like you can clearly see she’s sick asf right now. Why not just give her that privacy and let her get a damn shape up in peace?"

"Idc if she reposted it a million times," the same Young M.A fan continued. "I just feel like common sense is common sense. He see she sick… just do her hair and move along."

Another social media user chimed in with: "Why tf that barber post Young Ma like that? I hope she never go to him again, you can see all in her face she ain’t wanna b recorded. I hope she’s ok "

"That barber foul for posting that vid of Young MA," tweeted another person carrying the same sentiment. "You could definitely tell she ain’t really wanna be recorded like that smh."

However, on Wednesday (March 15), Fatsdabarber returned to his Instagram Story to sternly address the backlash from fans complete with his own comedic flair. At that point, Young M.A was quick to back him up on her end.

"Y'all got so much to say as if I'm trying to embarrass my dawg," wrote Fatsdabarber. "If she didn't want me to record, she would've told me. Y'all don't know our bond nor our friendship."

He jokingly continued: "What y'all need to do is just send your prayers for her and that's that she didn't have a haircut in a month and she wanted me to bring her haircut back to life, which I did. Thank you for coming, sis [Young M.A], and rocking with me like always. Love ya."

Over on her own Instagram Story, a seemingly unphased Young M.A reposted Fatsdabarber's pointed response to his detractors and concerned fans while throwing in a little comedic correction for what her barber had written.

"We blessed don't let that get to you blooda," Young M.A wrote to her barber in the IG Story's caption. "And I told you it was like 4 months."

Given the way both Young M.A and Fatsdabarber have handled the situation, it would appear as though fans of the "Unaccomodating" MC have nothing to be concerned about. In fact, M.A provided XXL with an official statement regarding her current health status.

"As many of my supporters know, I’ve been dealing with various personal health issues the last few years," the statement reads. "I recently was hospitalized and was successfully treated for several conditions. I’m doing better now, will take some time but I’m on the road to recovery and look forward to the future. Rest assured I’m in good spirits and everything will be explained in the MUSIC! Plus documentary… Love y’all MAB! Don’t worry I’m good! -M.A"

See Young M.A Defend the Barber Who Posted the Video of the Rapper That Concerned Fans BelowYoung M.A. Defends Barber Who Posted New Footage Against Backlash From Fansyoungma/Instagramloading…See the Definitive List of Bizarre Tweets From RappersFiled Under: Young M.ACategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 15, 2023Ilya S. Savenok, Getty Images

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Jay Electronica claims he's had an encounter with the shadowy group known as the Illuminati and say's he walked away from the meeting unimpressed.

Jay Elec has never been one to hold his tongue on any topic. On Monday (March 13), the New Orleans rapper went on a choppy Twitter diatribe, enlightening fans of his esoteric beliefs.

"Ps, The Illuminati? I met em," Jay Electronica tweeted in a string of dozens of posts. "They ain’t all that. Ask em about me."

In follow-up posts, he claimed Dominicans secretly control the entertainment industry and banks.

"Ps, The Dominicans control Hollywood," he added. "Ps, The Dominicans control the banking system."

Jay didn't stop there. "Ps, The Visigoths are running a pedophile ring in Hollywood," he continued. "Ps, The Albinos control the military industrial complex."

As for the music industry, the Roc Nation rapper believes it is controlled by a Christian religion.

"Ps, The Jehovah’s Witness control the music industry," he added.

This isn't the first time, Jay Electronica has been connected to conspiracy theories about the Illuminati. Back in 2012, he was rumored to be dating Kate Rothschild who is a part of the Rothschild Jewish noble banking family, widely believed by conspiracy theorists to be part of the Illuminati, a secret society some believe controls the world and are seeking a New World Order. Jay Electronica reportedly had a fling with Rothschild, who was then married to Ben Goldsmith, the son of the late billionaire financier Jimmy Goldsmith.

See 50 of the Most Clever Hip-Hop LyricsFiled Under: Jay ElectronicaCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 15, 2023Marcus Ingram/Getty Images

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Hurricane Chris has been acquitted on all charges in his murder trial.

On Tuesday (March 14), a four man, eight-woman jury found the Louisiana rapper not guilty in connection to the 2020 shooting death of Danzeria Farris Jr. following a seven-day trial, XXL has confirmed.

"We are excited," Hurricane Chris' attorney Alex Washington told reporters outside the courtroom. "We are proud of the jury. Finally, a jury that had the courage to say that he's not guilty. Everybody in Shreveport is not guilty. This system is flawed sometimes. He have poor investigation. It was a poor investigation that has affected Mr. Dooley's life since 2020. So, I appreciate the courage of the community to say, 'No. Say, not guilty.'"

Hurricane Chris also released a statement about his acquittal to The Shade Room.

"Tonight I was found not guilty of second degree murder and illegal possession of stolen things," the "Halle Berry" rapper wrote. "I wanna thank God, my attorneys at the Washington & Wells law firm, and my family for standing with me as my life was on the line."

Hurricane Chris, born Christopher Dooley, was initially arrested on June 19, 2020 and charged with shooting Farris multiple times at a Texaco gas station at Hearne and Hollywood avenues in Shreveport, La. Chris told police he believed Farris was trying to rob him when the man opened the door to the 2016 Mercedes Benz the rapper was driving. A car that had been reported stolen from Texas.

At the time of his arrest, Hurricane Chris' attorney released the following statement: "The prayers of Mr. Dooley are with the family of the deceased as well as his own family at this time. He is confident that at the end of a thorough and just investigation of this incident, his name will be cleared."

Chris was charged and later indicted on murder and illegal possession of stolen items. The "A Bay Bay" rapper maintained he shot Farris in self-defense The jury agreed, acquitting the rapper on both charges.

See 44 of the Longest Prison Bids in Hip-Hop HistoryC-Murder, Max B, B.G. and more.Filed Under: Hurricane ChrisCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/xxlstaff/” rel=”author”>XXL StaffPublished: March 14, 2023Prince Williams/WireImage

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UPDATE (March 15):

Young M.A has provided XXL with an official statement regarding her current health status:

"As many of my supporters know, I’ve been dealing with various personal health issues the last few years," the statement reads. "I recently was hospitalized and was successfully treated for several conditions. I’m doing better now, will take some time but I’m on the road to recovery and look forward to the future. Rest assured I’m in good spirits and everything will be explained in the MUSIC! Plus documentary… Love y’all MAB! Don’t worry I’m good! -M.A"

ORIGINAL STORY (March 14):

Fans are vocalizing their concerns regarding Young M.A's health and well-being after videos began circulating online of the rapper in a barber chair.

On Tuesday (March 14), an initial clip surfaced on the internet, showing the Brooklyn rhymer in what appears to be comedian and celebrity barber @fatsdabarber's chair, getting a shape-up and her dreadlocks retwisted. In the short video, shared by Instagram blog @gossipofthecity, there is a before-and-after of Young M.A getting her hair done. However, what fans have expressed worry about is her physical appearance and if M.A may be battling some sort of health issues.

Young M.A also began trending on Twitter, with some fans extending prayers and sharing gentle messages.

One person said, "God bless you young ma, I declare and decree love and health over your body amen."

Another wrote, "Whatever Young MA has going on is honestly none of our business. Now is not the time to speculate or speak negatively. Just wish her well and let it be."

Another Twitter user brought attention to the barber posting the video of Young M.A to social media, writing, "That barber is completely f**kin wrong and unethical!!! Young MA whole body language looked like she ain’t wanna be recorded and you posted that s**t? 🗑️"

Young M.A has not spoken out on the circulating video and her Instagram page has been wiped clean. She did, however, repost the barber's IG Story video, which shows her in the barber chair after receiving her shapeup.

XXL has reached out to Young M.A's team for a comment.

Following this recent video of Young M.A making its rounds online, a video of her from December of last year, in an electric wheelchair at a grocery store, appears to have resurfaced as well. In the clip, a woman spotted the "Ooouuu" rapper and was uncertain if it was actually her. At the end of the video, the woman spoke confidently, stating that she saw M.A several times in the store and was certain it was her.

Many people on social media have drawn their own conclusions as to what has attributed to Young M.A's potential health issues or are speculating about what is going on with the rapper, noting the yellow color of her eyes, but nothing regarding Young M.A's health has been confirmed at this time.

See the Videos of Young M.A BelowScroll Down to Find Reactions to Young M.A's Viral VideoSee Rappers’ Real NamesFiled Under: Young M.ACategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 14, 2023TMZ

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Lil Uzi Vert was drug-free when he made his upcoming album The Pink Tape.

On Tuesday (March 14), TMZ caught up with Uzi and his crew in Beverly Hills, Calif. and asked the Philadelphia rapper about Don Cannon recently revealing Uzi created nearly 700 songs for his new album while Uzi was in the midst of his newfound sobriety.

"It was challenging at first. But then after probably after a month, I got used to it," Lil Uzi Vert said of creating his new album sober. "I thought that my creative process wasn't going to be the same because I wasn't on drugs no more. It was the same. Even better. Because I could think more clear and I could actually, like, instead of my words slurring, which is kinda of cool, everything made sense. I didn't just make random music. How can I say? I didn't play off the beat. I actually made song with topics this time."

Lil Uzi Vert said he would advise all of his peers to go the drug-free route.

"It's the best thing to do," the "Just Wanna Rock" rapper added. "It will change your life. And you'll look better."

Back in February, Lil Uzi Vert's label co-owner Don Cannon talked about Uzi's proficiency while making the new album during an interview on Math Hoffa's My Expert Opinion podcast.

"Sober, high, when he used to get high and now he sober doing ’em," said Don Cannon. "Ain’t nothing changed so he one of them guys. And it’s different because we’re getting all kinds of songs out of him. Might get a rock song, a real rap song, because he really rap.  Might get the melodic shit that he do. That's a fun thing."

Lil Uzi Vert has been teasing his new album for a while now. Yesterday, he said the project would be coming in a couple months.

See Lil Uzi Vert Explaining How He Made His New Album While Sober BelowSee Most Anticipated Hip-Hop Albums of 2023Filed Under: Lil Uzi VertCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 14, 2023Theo Wargo/Getty Images

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It appears Frank Ocean has debuted a new look with a new selfie but not everyone is convinced the photo is real.

On Monday (March 13), Frank Ocean Twitter fan account blondedhomer shared a photo purported to be recently shared by the Odd Future crooner with his "close friends." The new pic shows the Grammy-winning singer with shoulder-length dreads. The last time Frank was spotted he was sporting a low cut. Naturally, the photo has gotten Frank's fans in a fuss.

"Looks like Jesus is that Frank Ocean?" one person posted along with a crying laughing emoji.

"What the hell did earl sweatshirt did with frank ocean?" someone else questioned.

"This N***a really disappeared for so long he grew locs PAST HIS SHOULDERS. f**k you, Frank Ocean," another person posted.

"Frank ocean came back looking like Waka [Flock Flame]," reads another post.

Not everyone is convinced the new photo is real.

"That frank ocean selfie is FAKEEE," someone opined.

"I wish that picture of Frank Ocean with the dreads was real lol," another disbelieving Twitter user posted.

The reclusive singer has been mostly out of the public eye since the release of his 2016 album Blonde. In the time since then, he's released music sparingly. He headlined the Coachella Festival in 2020. That summer, his brother died in a car crash. The last time Frank was trending for a viral picture was last summer when he posted a nude photo on Instagram.

See Frank Ocean's New Look and Reactions BelowSee Rappers’ Real NamesFiled Under: Frank OceanCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/joeyech/” rel=”author”>Joey EchPublished: March 14, 2023backgrid/YouTube

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French Montana and Rubi Rose are both the topics of some dating rumors after being spotted out together and engaging in a little PDA.

On Monday (March 14), Backgrid posted paparazzi video footage of rappers French Montana and Rubi Rose as they were reportedly headed for a dinner together at the world-famous Mr. Chow in Beverly Hills, Calif.

In the clip below, the two former XXL Freshmen can be seen casually strolling down the sidewalk outside of Mr. Chow shortly after hopping out of a candy apple red luxury SUV. As photographers on hand rapidly snap flicks of the potentially newly minted hip-hop couple, Rubi Rose, who dons an all-white sweatsuit, is heard saying "what the f**k?" as she bashfully smiles at French Montana.

"They always out here," explains French as the two rhymers proceed to their delicious destination.

From there, French Montana drapes his arm around Rubi Rose in the embrace that serves as the catalyst for the dating rumors in the first place.

According to TMZ, a source close to Rubi Rose says that the "He in His Feelings" spitter is definitely French's girlfriend although there has yet to be any concrete confirmation that the two are officially boo'd up.

Dating French Montana wouldn't be the first time Rubi Rose has been romantically linked with a fellow rapper. In fact, it wouldn't even be the first time the Kentucky-born artist was involved in a relationship with another XXL Freshman. Back in 2020, Rubi Rose famously dated DDG, a past relationship that continues to make headlines recently.

Last month, Rubi Rose called DDG a "weirdo" for allegedly letting his latest love interest, singer Halle Bailey, wear one of Rubi's old t-shirts. After a back-and-forth spat on Twitter following Rubi's call-out, DDG seemingly threw some shade at Rose in a Valentine's Day post on TikTok.

As for French Montana, his former relationships include having dated Khloe Kardashian, whom he featured in the music video for "Don't Panic" back in 2014.

See French Montana and Rubi Rose in the Video That Sparked Dating Rumors BelowSee Rappers’ Real NamesFiled Under: French Montana, Rubi RoseCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/joeyech/” rel=”author”>Joey EchPublished: March 14, 2023Paras Griffin/Getty Images

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A new photo of Young Thug from inside prison has surfaced and in it, the YSL rapper is showing off his muscles.

On Sunday (March 12), a new photo of Young Thug that was originally posted to social media by his sister, Dolly White, began to circulate throughout the internet. The now-viral image makes it appear as though, Young Thug, who is currently awaiting trial in a widely publicized RICO case, is at least taking solid care of himself physically from behind bars.

In the photo posted below, Thugger's sister shares an image she captured from a monitor while speaking with her incarcerated brother via video chat. As Dolly White takes the opportunity to show off Young Thug's seemingly newfound physique, both siblings are seen smiling from ear to ear while the "Flexing on Purpose" rapper does exactly that—flexes his biceps.

"My Heart," reads the photo's caption.

Unfortunately, Young Thug has had plenty of time to exercise and focus on his health as he has been locked up for the better part of 10 months. Back in May of 2022, the Atlanta rapper was indicted along with 26 other members of YSL.

Accused of being a violent street gang formed by Young Thug in the early 2010s, the YSL affiliates were hit with a 56-count indictment that includes charges of murder, armed robbery and conspiring to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) act in the state of Georgia. Thug also faces additional charges of possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of codeine with intent to distribute, possession of cocaine, possession of a firearm and possession of a machine gun.

In the nearly one year since, 15 YSL members arrested in May 2022, including Gunna, have taken plea deals.

As it stands, Young Thug's upcoming trial is expected to take several months due to the fact that a judge is requiring a jury pool of more than 500 individuals to choose from and the State of Georgia claims to have over 300 witnesses willing to testify against YSL.

See Young Thug Showing Off His Muscles in the Newly Surfaced Prison Photo BelowSee 44 of the Longest Prison Bids in Hip-Hop HistoryC-Murder, Max B, B.G. and more.Filed Under: Young ThugCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 14, 2023casadimusic/TikTok

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Yung Miami's acting debut on BMF last week is the gift that keeps on giving. Content creators and people ready to crack jokes about the City Girls rapper's lack of acting chops have been going in with memes and videos. The latest viral clip involving the infamous scene finds a music producer turning the clip into a "hood musical."

On Monday night (March 13), TikTok user casadimusic, who's known for remixing viral clips on TikTok, shared his latest creation, which makes use of the BMF clip that has had the internet going nuts. In the clip, BMF character Deanna Washington, as played by Yung Miami, gives her now famous lines "Meech, where's my husband?," "Ty why?" and "I want whoever did this to pay." Casadimusic chops the vocals and puts them over a trap sounding instrumental. You can peep the hilarious clip in the video below.

Yung Miami's acting skills were mercilessly clowned following her debut on the show on March 10.

"Bruh…Yung Miami is the worst actress ever ‍…If I didnt know it was BMF, I would think that scene when she slapped Meech was on Tubi," one person tweeted.

"Please give actors/actresses the chance to be on this show," another post on the topic read. "No more guest star rappers that can’t act. We already let it slide with bad acting Lala but that Yung Miami shit is not it."

Yung Miami confidently reacted to the bad reviews on social media. "The more they hate, the more opportunities come. It's only the beginning for me," she wrote in one post.

Watch Yung Miami's BMF Scene Turned Into a "Hood Musical" BelowSee 50 of the Most Clever Hip-Hop LyricsFiled Under: Yung MiamiCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 14, 2023datpiff.com

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Popular mixtape streaming platform DatPiff is currently down with rumors swirling that the site has met its demise. Datpiff has responded to the issues and speculation.

On Monday (March 13), many DatPiff users began to notice the site's usual plethora of mixtape content was unavailable. Others got 404 errors while logging on to the site. Currently, the site sits mostly dark.

Datpiff website down.datpiff.comloading…

Many fans expected the worst-case scenario.

"RIP Datpiff," Andrew Barber of Fake Shore Drive tweeted. "Who probably has the most important archive of music from the past 10-15 years anywhere on the internet. It was a bridge between the blog era and the streaming era — and a hub for projects that will never see the light of day on DSPs. Thank you for your service."

"We really lost Eastbay & Datpiff in less than 6 months," someone else captioned video of Tory Lanez's father going off outside the courtroom.

"Datpiff shutting down is the bleak future that we're facing with how these soulless corporations want to monopolize how we listen to music, resulting in multiple iterations of the burning of the alexandria, wiping away decades of precious culture – most of it we'll never salvage," another person posted.

It turns out, rumors of the site ending its 18-year run may have been exaggerated. On Monday night, DatPiff released a statement about concern over the site's possible demise.

"Despite the rumors, we are happy to report that we will still be supplying you with all the mixtapes you love," the statement reads. "We're working through technical issues on our site and app, but still actively update our youtube! Thanks for all the love and concerns but we promise, we are still here."

DatPiff launched in 2005 and has been a staple in the hip-hop community via which mixtapes have been distributed online. In early 2022, they suffered a data breach.

See Most Anticipated Hip-Hop Albums of 2023Categories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/joeyech/” rel=”author”>Joey EchPublished: March 14, 2023Ghetto Girlz Eat/YouTube/Santiago Felipe/Getty Images

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Erica Banks is speaking openly about the intimate relationship she had with Finesse2Tymes. The "Buss It" rapper says sex with her former partner wasn't what she was used to.

On Sunday (March 12), Erica Banks joined Love & Hip Hop Atlanta's Sierra Gates on the first episode of her new cooking show, Ghetto Girlz Eat. Over wine, the two ladies discuss things like social media techniques and being a woman in hip-hop all while cooking up a classic Southern-style dish—fried fish with yams and cabbage. However, things in the kitchen took a spicy turn when the topic of conversation switched gears to Erica Banks' former lover, Finesse2Tymes.

In the Ghetto Girlz Eat episode below, Banks and Sierra chop it about her past romance with Finesse2Tymes. While Erica Banks was quick to refer to her fling with the Memphis spitter as "a cute moment" that was "fun for what it was" and ended on good terms, she said that being intimate with Finesse in the bedroom was a bit different than what she had experienced with previously.

"Sex was, it was cool," said Erica Banks around the 29:14-mark in the video below. "It was cool. It was cool for me, you know, because everybody got they own preference. I could've been just cool to him."

At that point, Sierra took the cues Erica was giving and pressed the Texas-bred rapper on what she meant by simply stating that sex with Finesse "was cool."

"When a girl say, 'It's just cool,' I ain't gon’ lie, it sounds like the man's thing was small," said Sierra Gates.

After a deep breath and a brief grimace while she took a second to process what she was about to say, Erica Banks replied: "Ah, well, it wasn't what I was used to. Let me say that. It ain't what I was used to. I'm used to a certain type. You know what I'm sayin’?"

Erica Banks' explanation about her former sex life with Finesse2Tymes comes just days after Finesse spoke on why, in his opinion, the couple ended things. In an interview with The Breakfast Club on March 10, the "Back End" spitter said that Erica's relationship goals simply didn't line up with what he looks for in a woman.

"I'm a man, so when I wake up in the morning and me and my woman…when I get up, my woman get up because it's time to cook, it's time to have some sex, it's time to clean up," said Finesse2Tymes. "And when you get up and you get in your phone, I don't like that. Don't get straight in your phone when you're around a man."

In response, Erica hit up Instagram Live to explain that she isn't a maid and couldn't accommodate the "servant" lifestyle that Finesse was looking for her to live wasn't possible. She also shed some light on why she looks at her phone when she wakes up in the morning, as Finesse2Tymes previously alluded to.

"Bookings happened on the phone, money is calling on the phone, they hit what to give you some bread, the phone," Banks explained.

However, when it was all said and done, Erica Banks maintained her stance that Finesse2Tymes is a good man and a funny person despite their relationship not working out.

See Erica Banks Admit Sex With Finesse2Tymes Wasn't What She Was Used to BelowSee Rappers With an OnlyFans AccountAre you subscribed?Filed Under: Erica Banks, Finesse2tymesCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 14, 2023Jeff Kravitz/Getty Images

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Megan Thee Stallion is back on social media following a three-month hiatus.

On Monday night (March 13), the Houston rapper shared her first Instagram post since November of 2022, about a week prior to the start of the Tory Lanez trial. The newest post from Megan (below) features a carousel of photos, some of which were taken during Megan's recent appearance at the 2023 Vanity Fair Oscar Party hosted by Radhika Jones at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, Calif. on Sunday (March 12). In the photos, she wears a form-fitting black dress, a diamond necklace and diamond earrings.

Not only is MTS back outside, she is also working. The same night Megan also revealed she is working on a new album during a brief interview with ET.

"Oh, I am," she replied when asked if she was putting together a new LP. "New music, F**k y'all hoes. Bye," she added before walking off.

At the end of the month, she will be headlining the March Madness Music Festival AT&T Block Party in Houston during NCAA Men’s Final Four weekend.

"There’s no place I’d rather be for my first performance of the year than my hometown of Houston," Megan said in a statement about the upcoming performance. "The AT&T Block Party Concert is gonna be such a vibe, and I can’t wait to get back on stage in the city where it all began. I’m looking forward to seeing my Hotties and putting on an unforgettable show for them."

Tory Lanez was found guilty of shooting Megan on Dec. 23, 2022. He is slated to be sentenced on April 10. Megan has remained mum on the verdict since it was announced.

See Megan Thee Stallion's First Instagram Post in Months BelowSee the Definitive List of Bizarre Tweets From RappersFiled Under: Megan Thee StallionCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 14, 2023Thaddaeus McAdams/Getty Images/DJVlad/YouTube

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Troy Ave took the stand at Taxstone's murder trial and told his truth about what happened the night his bodyguard was killed.

On Monday (March 13), day nine of popular podcaster Taxstone's trial for the murder of Troy Ave's bodyguard Ronald "Banga" McPhatter, Troy Ave appeared in court and testified on behalf of the state. According to the New York Post, the BSB rapper told the jury he and McPhatter were in the VIP of Irving Plaza when they ran into Taxstone, with whom he had a longstanding feud. Troy claimed Tax yelled out "What's popping?" in a manner that Troy believed was threatening.

"Banga turns around to me and says, 'I’m gonna rock him,' which means, 'I’m gonna hit him,'" Troy Ave testified. "And then I wink at him—I tell him, 'Do your thing.'"

Troy claimed Tax then pulled out a gun and shot McPhatter. Troy said he then wrestled with Taxstone for the gun and was shot in both legs in the process.

"When the shot goes off I see the light from the spark and I hear the shot," he testified. "This is all happening fast. I get up and start fighting Taxstone, trying to take him, grab the gun, and another shot goes off. I put my leg up to kind of block the shot from hitting me in the face or chest."

"I got up," Troy Ave added. "I’d rather die fighting. People die from leg shots. I’d rather die fighting than laying on the ground. I got up immediately."

Troy testified he was able to get possession of the gun and tried to shoot it only to have the gun misfire. He then saw his friend motionless.

"I rolled his body over and I’m like, 'Banga, get up. Come on.' I’m smacking him, like, 'C’mon bro. Get up,'" Troy testified. "And his eyes were rolling to the back of his head. His shirt was red so I could tell he got shot."

Hours prior to taking the stand, Troy Ave commented on his appearance in court on Instagram.

"To all my real ones that been riding with & for Me, today is the day I finally get to clear my name," Troy Ave wrote in the caption of a photo of Jay-Z testifying in a 2021 lawsuit. "It’s been almost 7 years since I lost one of my closest friends #RIPBANGA, 7 years of a narrative about it being my fault, 7 years of my character being assassinated all the while Trying to defend myself without saying much! I took it all on the chin, never complained about the stress even tho I felt it. Never complained about the pain even tho it hurt! Never shed a tear even tho my heart was crying! At my weakest points I drew strength from GOD! drew strength from my Children & drew strength from Yall but today."

"Ya Boi is Strong! Today .. is our day!" Troy Ave continued. "We in court & the facts will speak louder than any words! It’s time to get this false narrative off my name and dark cloud off my head. To all my supporters today is the day you can tell whoever went against Us 'Eat a D! I Told you So' let’s continue to spread Love & Destroy Hate! wether u sending prayers or pulling up to the court today with positive energy I dead ass appreciate it all! #FREETROYAVE #SelfDefense."

Taxstone is on trial for the shooting death of McPhatter, which occurred at the infamous 2016 shooting at Irving Plaza in New York City on May 25, 2016. Police believe Tax, born Daryl Campbell, shot McPhatter during an altercation in the VIP section of the venue. Troy Ave was arrested and charged with attempted murder a day after the shooting when video showed him firing a weapon in the venue. He since claimed he wrestled the gun away from the killer and fired in self-defense. Which he reiterated in court yesterday.

Taxstone faces 15 years to life in prison if found guilty of second-degree murder. He has already pleaded guilty to a gun charge in connection to the shooting.

According to the Post, prosecutors promised Troy Ave a one-year sentence in exchange for his testimony against Taxstone. He was facing 15 years.

See 44 of the Longest Prison Bids in Hip-Hop HistoryC-Murder, Max B, B.G. and more.Filed Under: Taxstone, Troy AveCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 13, 2023Mike Coppola/Getty Images/Meek Mill/Instagram

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Meek Mill is attempting to sell his Atlanta mansion on Instagram.

On Sunday (March 12), the Philadelphia rapper went on Instagram to tell his 23 million Instagram followers about his new listing. Apparently, Meek Mill is upset that his realtor isn't working fast enough to get the property sold, so Meek decided to do the work himself. The video Meek posted shows an aerial view of the home, which is in the Atlanta suburb of Sandy Springs, Ga. According to the video, the home has eight bedrooms and nine bathrooms. It also features a four-car garage, tennis court, pool, theater room and sauna.

"MANSION FORSALE IN ATL," Meek Mill captioned the video. "My realtor not getting this off fast enough & I think I can lol I never moved in it had for a few years. sandy springs/buckhead area! When somebody get traded to the hawks or falcons come grab this Jawn! I’m not even gone tag who shot this shitty video lol."

Meek Mill did not giving an asking price for the home, so there's a chance this could be a subliminal message for his realtor to put some pep into his or her step when it comes to getting the property gone.

Meek Mill is doing his independent thing when it comes to music as well. After parting ways with Roc Nation and Maybach Music Group last year, he announced he will be dropping 10 independent mixtapes starting last September. So far, he has only released Flamers 5, which dropped last November.

See Video of Meek Mill's Atlanta Mansion for Sale BelowSee Rappers and Hip-Hop Artists Who Sold Their Publishing for Huge PayoutsFiled Under: Meek MillCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 13, 2023Steve Granitz/Getty Images

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Megan Thee Stallion is back in album mode.

The Houston rapper revealed she is working on her new album during a very brief red carpet interview at the 2023 Oscars on Sunday (March 12). Meg was stopped by ET and asked if she had any new music coming down the pike.

"Oh, I am," she replied. "New music, F**k y'all hoes. Bye," she added before walking off.

Megan Thee Stallion is returning to the public sphere after being mostly quiet and out of the public eye since the Tory Lanez trial. After giving an emotional testimony during the first week of trial, Megan has been laying low. Tory was found guilty of the shooting the Traumazine rapper on Dec. 23, 2022. He is slated to be sentenced on April 10, barring a successful appeal for a new trial.

While she's maintained radio silence on social media, last week it was announced that she will be headlining the March Madness Music Festival AT&T Block Party in Houston. Megan will perform on the first day of the three-day music event, which takes place during NCAA Men’s Final Four weekend from March 31-April 2.

"There’s no place I’d rather be for my first performance of the year than my hometown of Houston," Megan said in a statement. "The AT&T Block Party Concert is gonna be such a vibe, and I can’t wait to get back on stage in the city where it all began. I’m looking forward to seeing my Hotties and putting on an unforgettable show for them."

Megan Thee Stallion's previous album Traumazine came out last August and debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 chart.

See Megan Thee Stallion Announcing Her New Album BelowSee Most Anticipated Hip-Hop Albums of 2023Filed Under: Megan Thee StallionCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/trentfitzgerald/” rel=”author”>Trent FitzgeraldPublished: March 13, 2023Maury Phillips/Getty Images

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Blueface appears to be questioning the paternity of Chrisean Rock's baby and seemingly suggests that she get an abortion.

On Sunday (March 12), Blueface went on his Instagram page and wrote a lengthy message that appears to be aimed at his on-and-off girlfriend Chrisean Rock. In his missive, the California rapper seemed to be questioning the paternity of Rock's child and implied that she should get an abortion.

"This is what it's supposed to look like when a women tells a man she pregnant," Blue wrote alongside a video of his ex-girlfriend, Jaidyn Alexi, revealing to him that she's pregnant with their second child. "Any other response or question you should abort the baby a treat the next n***a better for the sake of you him a the baby.

"No man should question the paternity of a child if they do 9x outta 10 the women hasn’t been valuing herself enough which makes them believe theirs a possibility it’s not theirs this is a wholesome beautiful moment that every righteous women deserves fr," he continued.

Blueface's IG post comes just days after Chrisean Rock posted pictures of herself and her baby bump on her social media pages. See below.

Rock and Blueface did go back and forth on Twitter earlier today (March 13). Rock said she's not going to let Blue's hurtful comments bring her down as she prepares to carry the pregnancy to full term.

I get it I’m not mad at him or bout whatever I’m grateful you loved me this far," she tweeted. "N I'll never stop loving you. You so angry u can just fight with yo self get all dat off ya chest." She also added, "I hear you loud n clear."

"I feel every bit of pain n anger Your reaction is reasonable. Revengeful heart just don’t go anywhere so be safe with tht n two I hurt you so bad that you you lose your self n convinced your self to hate me publicly," she continued.

When Blueface responded, "The truth hurts fr," Rock responded, "Nah . You just petty when yo feelings hurt."

Blueface replied, "She pregnant missing a tooth with 7 tattoos finna make a fool of herself with the next nigga an I’m not pregnant at all finna live my life perfectly fine with the next bitch who gone take me even more serious now it’s really tragic fr."

To which Rock responded, "I take you serious. You just hate me rn . I don’t need the next Nigga I got my self."

Rock added, "Ion regret anything about my self so honestly trynna put me down is a low blow coming from a man that know he loves me." And she concluded with this: "Don’t feel bad for me ima shake dis off fr. Plus I’m grown I did this to my self."

Clearly, they are in a very toxic relationship. Hopefully, Blueface and Chrisean Rock will amicably find a way to co-exist together for the sake of the baby.

Read Blueface's Instagram Post BelowSee 12 Rappers Who Have Deleted Their Social Media AccountsFiled Under: Blueface, chrisean rockCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 13, 2023TMZ

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Lil Uzi Vert is addressing the controversy due to his satanic lyrics about City Girls' JT on a new track.

On Monday (March 13), TMZ caught up with Lil Uzi Vert and his crew in Beverly Hills, Calif. where the Philadelphia rapper was asked about the viral track he debuted at 2023 Rolling Loud California that contained the lyrics, "I made a City Girl believe in Satan."

"Not actually Satan, but just basically, I make a girl do whatever I say-so," Lil Uzi Vert explained, after confirming the song would be on his new album The Pink Tape, which he said will be dropping in a couple of months.

When asked what his girlfriend JT thought of the lyric, Uzi replied, "She really didn't think too much of it. She was there when she heard me make the song. She knows what I really mean."

The "Just Wanna Rock" rapper went on to explain he doesn't believe in Satan and isn't concerning himself with the people accusing him of worshipping Lucifer.

"I really don't pay attention to them even saying that," he added. "Because I just say whatever I want in my songs. It's just like my freedom of speech. I come from a real religious household. But, me finally living my life and being an adult, I actually just kinda say anything I want to say. Even if I offend people, I don't mean to offend people. But if they don't like it, they have the option to turn it off…They probably need to just chill a little bit."

Lil Uzi Vert caught heat for the lyrics following his Rolling Loud performance on March 5. Singer Summer Walker called Uzi out in an Instagram post.

"lol…I genuinely be curious have these people ever seen or heard a demon before," she wrote over a video of Uzi's performance. "Or it's just trend because I feel like if you have you'd stop playing…really nothing funny or cute about it. May God be with y'all."

Tony Tayo aslo shunned Uzi's lyrics.

See Lil Uzi Vert Respond to Backlash He Recieved for His Satanic Lyrics About JT BelowSee 50 of the Worst Lyrics From RappersFiled Under: City Girls, JT, Lil Uzi VertCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/joeyech/” rel=”author”>Joey EchPublished: March 13, 2023Entertainment Tonight/YouTube/ABC/Contributor/Getty Images

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A$AP Rocky offered up a toast to Rihanna following her emotional performance of "Lift Me Up" at the Oscars.

On Sunday (March 12), A$AP Rocky was spotted in the crowd during Rihanna's performance at the 95th Academy Awards in Hollywood, Calif. As Rihanna wrapped up her soul-stirring live rendition of "Lift Me Up," the lead single from the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack, A$AP Rocky basked in the moment with a prideful acknowledgment of his longtime girlfriend and soon-to-be mother of two.

In the video posted below, A$AP Rocky can be seen beaming with pride as the tearful Oscars audience at Los Angeles' Dolby Theater greets the end of Rihanna's touching tribute to late Black Panther actor, Chadwick Boseman, with a raucous standing ovation. Donning an immaculate white tuxedo with black accents, the "Praise The Lord (Da Shine)" rapper pumps his first in a moment of triumph before raising his glass to toast Rihanna accompanied by a warm smile from ear to ear.

Rihanna's flawless live presentation of "Lift Me Up" and Rocky's heartwarming reaction is the second time in a month that the A-list hip-hop couple has made major headlines. During Ri Ri's outstanding performance at Super Bowl LVII, A$AP Rocky immediately began to trend across social media as speculation rapidly circulated that Rihanna may be pregnant due to the fact that she rocked the halftime set with a noticeably adorable baby bump.

Within moments following the performance on Feb. 12, it was confirmed that Rihanna and the "A$AP Forever" spitter are indeed expecting the birth of their second child.

See ASAP Rocky Toast Rihanna and Her "Lift Me Up" Oscars Performance in the Videos BelowSee Rappers’ BirthdaysFiled Under: A$AP Rocky, RihannaCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/trentfitzgerald/” rel=”author”>Trent FitzgeraldPublished: March 13, 2023Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto/Getty Images

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Spotify has expanded their Discovery Mode program to offer artists a chance to receive more exposure on their streaming platform in exchange for a lower royalty rate.

Last Wednesday (March 8), Spotify announced their augmented program during their Stream On event. CEO Daniel EK described Discovery Mode as "an entirely new and updated Spotify experience."

How Does Discovery Mode Work?

Through the Spotify for Artists tool, artists and labels enter their primary songs into Discovery Mode and add them to the platform's algorithms that determine personalized listening sessions. Spotify will monitor how listeners are engaging with a particular song and provide a detailed analysis.

"While labels can continue to access Discovery Mode through our team, I'm excited that Discovery Mode is now available directly within Spotify for Artists today," Joe Hadley, the streamer's global head of artist partnerships and audience, said on Wednesday (via Billboard). "Now, thousands of independently distributed artists and labels have access to Discovery Mode."

Spotify's updated Discovery Mode program has received some mixed reactions. Some artists and managers see it as a way for artists to get their music in front of as many listeners as possible.

"I am someone who has benefited from using Spotify’s Discovery Mode before it was public," wrote one musician on Twitter. "I am also someone who is now comfortably a full-time musician because of it[.] The lower royalty rate is nowhere near as bad as you think it is."

However, some music and artist advocacy organizations view the Discovery Mode program as a digital form of payola that will lead to lower royalties for artists and creators on Spotify.

"#spotifystreamon now touting Discovery mode, which is nakedly an attempt to cut artists' pay in exchange for algorithmic boosting. It's clearly an abusive business practice that harms workers and audiences. The @FTC [Federal Trade Commission] must investigate," tweeted Future of Music Coalition, a music and artist advocacy group.

It will be interesting to see how Spotify will convince artists and labels the benefits of using their Discovery Mode program.

Read More Reactions to Spotify's Discovery Mode Program BelowSee 20 of the Best-Selling Hip-Hop Albums of All TimeFiled Under: spotify, Tech, technologyCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/xxlstaff/” rel=”author”>XXL StaffPublished: March 13, 2023D Dipasupil/Rich Fury/Leon Bennett/Getty Images (3)

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This summer marks 50 years of hip-hop. Who knew the rappers in this genre would take it this far. Rap went from barely being noticed at its inception to one of the most influential genres to exist. While hip-hop continues to grow, as always, homage must be paid to the artists that started the culture and pushed it forward.

Lyrics are the focal point for rappers and fans alike. Putting together a selection of words in a cool or slick manner that grabs everyone's attention is what makes a good song great. Take for example when Lloyd Banks’ said, "But as long as I’m here, I’m gon’ grab checks/And make my cash stretch longer than giraffe necks" on Obie Trice’s 2003 track "We All Die One Day" featuring 50 Cent and Eminem. Or when Ye said, "Too many Urkels on your team, that’s why your wins low" on his 2010 song "Dark Fantasy" featuring Teyana Taylor. Lyrics like these stand out from the rest because not only are they double entendres, but they reference things that everyone can relate to.

It’s hard to forget the bars that make people smile, laugh or think. Oftentimes, catchy lines or witty phrases are the reasons that a song is loved. Everyone remembers clever lyrics from a hit record, no matter which rapper it came from. Remember when Nelly said, "My grammar be’s Ebonics, gin, tonic, and chronic/F**k bionic, it’s ironic, slamming n***as like Onyx" on his 2000 debut single "Country Grammar (Hot S**t)"? Or when Ice Cube rapped, "Go ahead and keep your drawers, giving up the claps and who needs applause" on his 1992 hit "Check Yo Self." Again, compositions with double entendres and relatability.

Over time, there have been plenty of other notable lines from many different rappers. To see the many examples from Lil Wayne, Jay-Z, Nicki Minaj and more revered lyricists, check out the gallery below for 50 of the most clever hip-hop lyrics.—Brandon Simmons

See 50 of the Most Clever Hip-Hop LyricsFiled Under: 21 Savage, 2Pac, 50 Cent, Ab-Soul, Andre 3000, AZ, Benny The Butcher, Big Daddy Kane, Big L, Big Pun, Common, Cordae, Dr. Dre, Drake, Eminem, Fabolous, Fat Joe, Feature, Future, Galleries, Gallery, Gucci Mane, Heavy D, Ice Cube, J. Cole, J.I.D, Jadakiss, Jay-Z, jeezy, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, KRS-One, Lauryn Hill, Lil Kim, Lil Wayne, Lloyd Banks, Ludacris, Method Man, Nas, Nelly, Nicki Minaj, Pusha T, Raekwon, Redman, Remy Ma, Rick Ross, Snoop Dogg, Styles P, Talib Kweli, The Notorious B.I.G., Travi$ Scott, Tupac, Tyler The Creator, Vince Staples, YeCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 13, 2023Johnny Nunez/ Kevin Winter/Getty Images (2)

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Troy Ave is testifying in the Taxstone murder case and he has a message for his detractors, which includes him sharing a photo of Jay-Z in court.

On Monday (March 13), Troy Ave is set to take the stand in Taxstone's murder trial, in connection to the 2016 shooting at Irving Plaza in New York City that took the life of Troy Ave's bodyguard Ronald "Banga" McPhatter. Prior to Troy making his appearance in court, he offered up a message on Instagram. Sharing a photo of Jay-Z on the stand in court during Hov's lawsuit with Parlux Fragrances in 2021, Troy wrote over the photo: No f**k n****s formed against me shall prosper. #FreeTroyAve." He scored the photo with Jigga's track "U Don't Know."

"To all my real ones that been riding with & for Me, today is the day I finally get to clear my name," Troy Ave wrote in the caption. "It’s been almost 7 years since I lost one of my closest friends #RIPBANGA, 7 years of a narrative about it being my fault, 7 years of my character being assassinated all the while Trying to defend myself without saying much! I took it all on the chin, never complained about the stress even tho I felt it. Never complained about the pain even tho it hurt! Never shed a tear even tho my heart was crying! At my weakest points I drew strength from GOD! drew strength from my Children & drew strength from Yall but today."

"Ya Boi is Strong! Today .. is our day!" Troy Ave continued. "We in court & the facts will speak louder than any words! It’s time to get this false narrative off my name and dark cloud off my head. To all my supporters today is the day you can tell whoever went against Us 'Eat a D! I Told you So' let’s continue to spread Love & Destroy Hate! wether u sending prayers or pulling up to the court today with positive energy I dead ass appreciate it all! #FREETROYAVE #SelfDefense."

Taxstone is on trial for the murder of McPhatter, which occurred May 25, 2016 during a shooting in the green room at Irving Plaza during a T.I. show. Tax is accused of shooting McPhatter following an argument. Troy Ave was initially arrested the following day in connection to the shooting when surveillance video captured him firing a gun in the venue. Three other people suffered non life-threatening injures, including Troy who suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

In January of 2017, popular Tax Season podcast host Taxstone was arrested in connection to the Irving Plaza shooting. The following month, Taxstone was indicted on weapons charges stemming from the Irving Plaza shooting. That June, he pleaded guilty in the gun case. A month later, he was indicted for the murder of McPhatter. Troy Ave later said he wrestled the gun away from Tax and fired in self-defense. If found guilty of second-degree murder, Taxstone faces 15 years to life in prison.

See Troy Ave's Post About Testifying in the Taxstone Trial BelowSee Rappers Named After Notorious Crime FiguresFiled Under: Troy AveCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/joeyech/” rel=”author”>Joey EchPublished: March 13, 2023Arturo Holmes/Scott Dudelson/Getty Images (2)

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Nicki Minaj is showing some support for Ice Spice by quoting some lyrics from Ice's song, "Princess Diana." Queen Barb told the Bronx-bred rising star to give "No more passes."

On Sunday (March 12), Nicki Minaj slid into the comments section of an Instagram post that Ice Spice made on March 7 following her performance at Rolling Loud California 2023. In quoting a line from the chorus of Ice Spice's "Princess Diana," the Queens hip-hop icon offered up encouraging words to Ice as it pertains to her current career status, which is steadily on the incline.

"B****es slow so I gih dem a pass," wrote Nicki Minaj in the comment below under a series of photos Ice Spice posted of herself after last week's Rolling Loud set. "Nah. Grah! No more passes, princess. Let's go."

The section of "Princess Diana" Nicki makes reference to finds Minaj anointing Ice Spice as a "princess" in her own right, implying that at this stage in the Like..? spitter's career, she doesn't owe a "pass" to anyone.

B****es move wock ’cause they know I got bands (Damn)," Ice Spice raps on "Princess Diana." "They be chattin', I don't give a damn and I'm still gettin' money, I know who I am (Grrah)/Tryna be low, he gon' hit up my ’Gram (Grrah)/If he smart, he gon' act like a fan (Damn)/Thinkin' you bigger, they got ya head gassed (Grrah)/B****es slow, so I give ’em a pass."

Nicki Minaj's simple acknowledgment of Ice Spice is proving to be a huge moment for both the "Munch (Feelin' U)" rapper and her fans alike. When word got back to Ice that the Pinkprint legend commented on her IG post, the Bronx, N.Y. rhymer replied to one of her own tweets from 2020. Back then, Ice posted that Nicki began following her on social media, only to later explain that she was just "practicing" for when the moment actually happened.

With a simple "OMG" via Twitter on Sunday (March 12), Ice's offered up an implication she is now being followed by her idol, Nicki Minaj, a moment that she has been fantasizing about for years.

In the roughly 24 hours since Nicki Minaj's social media interaction with Ice Spice, fans of both immensely popular artists have begun expressing strong feelings of excitement in hopes that a collab may be on the way, perhaps on a remix of "Princess Diana."

"Nicki on Princess Diana," tweeted one fan. "Immediately."

Another replied: "It's gonna happen."

"I speak for everyone when I say y'all need to make a song together," an Ice Spice and Nicki Minaj enthusiast suggested.

Another user chimed in: "Waiting for Nicki-Ice Spice collab!"

"We need you to collab wit her, mommy," begged another.

Nicki Minaj has made multiple headlines recently in the weeks since she's returned from her public hiatus over the past several months. After a lively performance during Carnival in her native country of Trinidad and Tobago, Nicki dropped her latest single, "Red Ruby Da Sleeze," on March 3. Amid the populatary of the track, which contains a prominent sample of Lumidee's 2003 hit, "Never Leave You (Uh-Oh)," much speculation circulated the internet with the notion that Nicki Minaj disses both Megan Thee Stallion and Latto in her first single of the year.

As for Ice Spice, this isn't the first time her increasingly popular lyrics have been the focal point of a viral moment. Just last month, an artificially manufactured conversation between Ice Spice and President Joe Biden found a fake version of the Commander-in-Chief reciting bars from Ice's single "In Ha Mood" in a fictional yet comical attempt to shoot his shot at the Bronx rapper.

See Nicki Minaj Support Ice Spice by Quoting "Princess Diana" Lyrics Belownicki minaj quotes ice spice princess diana lyrics on instagramnickiminaj/Instagramloading…Here Are the Many Times Nicki Minaj Gave Flowers to Other Women in Hip-HopFiled Under: Ice Spice, Nicki MinajCategories: News

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/robbyseabrookiii/” rel=”author”>Robby Seabrook IIIPublished: March 13, 2023Dill35mm

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The best way to stand out has always centered on being unique, especially in music. Some of hip-hop's most memorable artists got their start by simply turning left when everyone else turned right, or by filling a viable niche. Luh Tyler, the 17-year-old Tallahassee, Fla. product, checks both boxes. Going viral in the late summer/early fall with his song "Law and Order," Tyler employs a kind of sing-song flow where he drags out the syllables in the last word of each bar. His raspy voice, light subject matter (girls, money and more money) and shining charisma turned him into an actual overnight sensation, considering "Law and Order" was only his third song ever.

While "Law And Order" got Tyler through the door when he released it in July of last year, he's had songs before and after which illustrate that he isn't a one-trick pony. "Jayda Wayda," which was a nod to the influencer of the same name (because everyone knows her and he thinks she's cute), feels like a building block of his current style. His future references of struggling to choose between Jayda Wayda and former XXL Freshman Rubi Rose are based off of this record, and his flow is more pointed than it is on "Law and Order." Of course, "Law and Order" was bigger, sitting at 9 million YouTube views, but his subsequent records aren't slouches either.

"Back Flippin," released in December of 2022, shows an even more laidback and confident Luh Tyler, rhyming over a beat that feels like a summer ride with friends. As it closes in on nearly 3.5 million streams on YouTube, this helped Luh Tyler carry his momentum into 2023, where he swapped songs with fellow buzzing Florida rapper, Trapland Pat. Their two songs are "Can't Move Wrong," which is all energy. And "Backstreet," a thoughtful break down of the ups and downs of hustling where Tyler is the feature. Both tracks dropped in late February, ahead of Luh Tyler's debut project My Vision, slated to arrive at the end of March. Luh Tyler also has a remix of his song "Fat Racks" on the way, now featuring 2022 XXL Freshman Babytron. To put it plainly, Luh Tyler has a lot ahead of him; he's crafted a rap career for himself in less than a year.

In this week's episode of The Break: Live, Luh Tyler sits down to talk about his quick rise to fame, dropping out of school with plans to get his GED, "Law And Order" and more. Check out the video below.

Follow Luh Tyler on SoundCloud and Instagram.

Standouts:

"Law & Order"

"Back Flippin"

"Can't Move Wrong" featuring Trapland Pat

See March 2023 New Music ReleasesFiled Under: Feature, Luh Tyler, The BreakCategories: The Break, Videos

href=”//www.xxlmag.com/author/cvernoncoleman/” rel=”author”>C. Vernon Coleman IIPublished: March 13, 2023Paras Griffin, Getty Images

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Lil Durk is still hoping to mend his broken relationship with his ex-fiancée India Royale.

On Sunday (March 12), Lil Durk delivered another message to Royale after she confirmed she is single on social media.

"Let me just look crazy Cause GM y'all [two double heart emojis] she not dumb or justot her money or her own even after I went broke she help me… …watch my page all day ima give the street and relationships some tips later from the voice not the people who post drama," Durk wrote, in part.

"She played a small part she really a good [girl] who live life ima good guy good husband cause I just over talked never listen to her pain back when she was back pregnant willow in the belly aka fat ma [double hearts emoji]," he continued.

"So I ain't perfect but I'm for you and I love you and I'm all ears when ever we get back in a relationship," he added. "You saved my life with you and willow and big sky outside all my kids you was there ripthang."

"This real s**t don't attack her she definitely the best in the world trust me[,]" he added. "I ain't do her wrong I just keep her from the world. I love you having fun and we ain't fighting. I said not fight and I started one but I miss you that's all we ain't no joke we really that we get the bag bag together without doing the most or copy cat what they did."

Lil Durk concluded by wishing India Royale a belated happy birthday and writing, "Real love not paid situation I just love her to death[.] She fed up but ima save us [double hearts emoji]."

Though Durk appears to want to rekindle his relationship with India, it might be too late. Rumors of their breakup began last September. Last month, she appeared to confirm the speculation by shooting down his Valentine's Day message on social media. Durk's latest message comes after the Chicago rapper said he wanted another child on social media and India confirmed she is single.

See Lil Durk's Latest Instagram Post About India Royale BelowSee the Definitive List of Bizarre Tweets From RappersFiled Under: Lil DurkCategories: News