Jay-z
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Dame Dash is in a great space years after severing ways with Jay-Z. The Roc-a-fella founder says is more than open to speaking to him to resolve their issues.
XXL Magazine is reporting that the Harlem, New York native recently discussed his former partner in great detail. During the newest episode of The CEO Show he and acclaimed Hip-Hop journalist Datwon Thomas talked the fall of Roc-A-Fella Records in relation to him and Hov. “When I look at what happened between me and Jay it’s like I blame Jay for letting it happen but all the people that really made it happen are the ones that are…benefiting from him the most now,” he explained. “I was stopping them from getting money. My friendship comes before the business. Either way unless he [Jay-Z] was down with it then it wouldn’t [have] happened.”
The former cake-a-holic went on to make it clear that he is willing to have a sit down with Jay-Z to discuss what went wrong. “Where I’m at now is that if Roc-A-Fella and the ones that weren’t billionaires want to get money on the right terms I’m down,” he said. “I’m telling you publicly I will [have the conversation]. And I’ve never not said that. But Jay’s never had that accountability to have that real conversation with me.” Dame Dash went on to add “I always said as a man that we could always talk it up. Men should always be able to talk things up, but I’m really happy with my life right now.”
While he is hopeful that the two can move on from the past don’t expect him to be doing his signature dance at any Jay-Z concert. “I know the world would love to see it and I’m down for it. If we could create something that inspires me, period. I don’t want to be f**king running on the stage dancing around I’m too chubby for that right now” he said.
You can watch the interview below.
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The Carter family has another reason to be proud. JAY-Z and his mother were honored at the annual Brooklyn Public Library gala for their philanthropic efforts.
The New York Times is reporting that the mogul and his mom were both given a special distinction in their beloved borough. They were honored for their joint efforts to bring balance to America’s educational system via their Shawn Carter Foundation. On Monday, October 2 the invite only event was held at the main branch of the facility. While Gloria Carter was not in attendance the “Empire State Of Mind” MC was joined by Desiree Perez, senior executive at Roc Nation. Also in the house were other high profile names including Gayle King, Mayor Eric Adams, Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, Clara Wu Tsai who co-owns The Brooklyn Nets while Questlove provided the music. JAY-Z was introduced by Senator Chuck Schumer who made multiple references to Hov’s biggest songs.
“As Senate majority leader, I got 99 problems,” joked the politician. “By the way,” Schumer said, “I live across the street and I wake up every morning reading your lyrics,” referring to the rapper’s lyrics that brand the outside of the library. Wearing a black tuxedo JAY-Z took the stage and made it clear he was humbled by the “Book Of Hov” exhibit. “I thought maybe it was like a small room, and it was more than what I deserved,” he explained. “I walked in, and I saw this incredible display. And my [grandmother] Hattie White got to see it,” he added. “She just turned 98 years old, and she’s seen a lot of things. That experience was just overwhelming”.
According to the website the Shawn Carter Foundation provides “college scholarships for young people who have talent and drive but due to mitigating circumstances their grade point averages fall below the minimum to qualify for support at other foundations and institutions.”
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Usher is on cloud 9 about performing at Super Bowl LVIII. He recently shared how he got a call from Jay-Z right after the announcement was made.
On Saturday, September 24 the National Football League made the reveal with a hilarious spoof of Usher’s “Confessions, Pt. II” video featuring Kim Kardashian. Huffington Post is reporting that the Grammy Award winner recently sat down with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe. While the two discussed several things the hottest topic was that he will be headlining one of the biggest shows of 2024. He went on to say that Jay-Z was one of the first people to hit his phone to congratulate him. “But when I got this call… he said, ‘It’s time, it’s magic time. You know, it’s time for you to have that moment.’ I’m like, ‘What are you talking about?’” Usher recalled. “He’s like, ‘The Super Bowl.’ I’m like, ‘Oh, you ready? Absolutely.’”
The “I Don’t Mind” singer went on to explain that this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity was destiny.
“I think that everything that led up to that moment, going to Las Vegas for my residency for the last two years, the legacy, obviously that is the music, the celebration of entertainment in that place. It’s the City of Lights. You know, it’s always been a place where entertainers go and find love and passion, connection to their fans,” Usher said.
This is not the first time Usher has graced the Super Bowl stage. Back in 2011, he joined The Black Eye Peas during their headline show. You can see Usher and Zane discussing things below.
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There’s a grainy clip on Youtube that captures the exact moment Timbaland played JAY-Z the culture-shifting “Dirt Off Your Shoulder” beat. While offering Hova the beats for what became Ludacris’ “The Potion,” the super-producer accidentally played the zany instrumental that prompted Jay to respond the same way everyone does when “Dirt Off Your Shoulders” drops—to grimace and violently bop your head.
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One would think that would be Timbaland’s favorite beat he produced for Hov, but it’s not.
While on the pink carpet at the 2023 VMAs, Timbaland revealed the favorite beat he produced for Jay is actually, “It’s Hot (Some Like It Hot)” off Jay’s Vol. 3… Life and Times of S. Carter.
When asked what his favorite beat he produced for JAY-Z, he cooly responded, “When It’s Hot It’s Hot.” He added, “That’s my favorite one.”
“It’s Hot (Some Like It Hot)” wasn’t released as a single, but became a classic Jigga track thanks to the popular line, “Go against Jigga yo a** is dense/ I’m about a dollar — what the f*ck is 50 cents?”
According to HipHopDX, Jay performed the Timbaland-produced track at Hot 97’s Summer Jam to clap back at 50 Cent who had dissed him, earlier in the year, on his ‘99 street anthem, “How To Rob.” 50 Cent revealed the mention helped validate and propel his career.
“I never went to radio until after he said that about me. I don’t know if my career would be where it’s at if he didn’t respond,” he told Rolling Stone in 2003.
Timbaland and Jay Z have collaborated on some of JAY-Z’s biggest hits. From “Dirt Off Your Shoulder” to “Big Pimpin’” to “Nigga What, Nigga Who,” (a personal favorite, “Is That Yo Chick”) and ‘Holy Grail,” Timbo and Jay are a match made in hip-hop heaven.
“It’s Hot” samples Elsie Mae’s “Whole Lot of Lovin’.”
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The Book Of Hov exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum has been a resounding success, and it’s going to stick around a little longer. Also, the Brooklyn rapper turned mogul’s famed “Off-White Lexus” is going to be parked right outside the building.
Source: Lexus / Lexus
Roc Nation has partnered with Lexus to bring a vintage 1993 Lexus GS 300, the same one Jay-Z flexed in the “Dead Presidents” video, to the Brooklyn Museum. Is it the exact same whip? Probably not, but it’s all about the nostalgia. The Book of HOV was originally scheduled to close up shop in the fall but will now end its run at the close of 2023.
“We’re excited to partner with Lexus to bring JAY-Z’s iconic ‘Off-White Lexus’ to The Book of HOV. The new installation adds another element of JAY-Z’s career to the exhibit that visitors can enjoy,” said Desiree Perez, CEO Roc Nation, in a press statement. “The response to The Book Of HOV has been overwhelming, so we’re excited to extend the exhibit to December to ensure new and returning attendees can have enough opportunities to fully immerse themselves into the experience.”
Since opening July 14, the Book Of Hov has reportedly hosted over 255,000 visitors and in turn created over 21,000 new accounts thanks to limited edition Jay-Z library cards.
According to Kelly Blue Book, the Lexus GS 300, a four door sedan, had a retail price of a cool $40,000 back in ’93. High-end Lexus automobiles have been name-checked in various Hip-Hop songs throughout the years, and that fact isn’t lost on the brand itself.
“In further celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip hop, we are thrilled to partner with Roc Nation in this special tribute to JAY-Z’s musical legacy,” added Mia Phillips, Senior Manager, Lexus Advertising & Media, in a statement. “The vehicle display is recognition of the mutual respect and admiration between Lexus and JAY-Z, whose brilliance and contributions to culture extend far beyond hip-hop.”
Real recognize real.
Source: Lexus / Lexus
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JAY-Z is about to double down on his commitment to criminal reform. He is hosting a 007 themed party that will raise funds for those fighting the system.
Page Six is exclusively, and allegedly, reporting that the Brooklyn, New York native is planning yet another super exclusive charity event this year. Later this month he will host a party in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Players will have to pony up $100,000 dollars to buy in to the blackjack game where the winner will win a million dollars. Non players will have to pay $50,000 dollars to for general entry. It is rumored that the “99 Problems” MC got the inspiration from Michael Rubin’s yearly all white fourth of July party in The Hamptons.
While the invite list has not been publicly released some of the rumored attendees include Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, Tom Brady, Travis Scott, DJ Khaled, Emily Ratajkowski, Megan Thee Stallion, several athletes, high profile CEO’s, hedge fund managers and more. Kevin Hart to serve as the emcee with Robert Kraft, Michael Rubin and Meek Mill are set to co-host. The party is said to be happening Saturday, September 30 at Ocean Casino Resort.
JAY-Z’s event will raise funds for REFORM Alliance; which aims to transform probation and parole by changing laws, systems and culture to create real pathways to work and wellbeing. You can read more about organization here.
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JAY-Z is once again using his influence to aid those in need, specifically those who are victims of shady law enforcement.
Spotted on TMZ Hip Hop, JAY-Z and Roc Nation are coming to the aid of a Wisconsin man who was wrongfully and violently arrested, and despite the police admitting they threw coughs on the wrong man, he is still facing charges.
Per TMZ Hip Hop:
TMZ Hip Hop has learned Jay-Z’s Team ROC org has enlisted powerhouse lawyer Alex Spiro to rep Jermelle English Jr. and his family … in hopes of getting all charges dropped, and possibly to sue the Kenosha PD.
Team ROC Managing Director Dania Diaz tells TMZ Hip Hop, “The reckless arrest of Jermelle English Jr. and the careless endangerment of his infant child by the Kenosha Police Department is an absolute travesty … the Team ROC team is here to support Jermelle and his family through this traumatic experience, demand justice and hold the Kenosha police officers accountable.”
Kenosha PD’s Leo Viola tells us the department is still undergoing an internal investigation, and plans to be extremely transparent with the public once it’s completed. He adds, the Dept. initiated its probe without any outside pressure.
What Exactly Went Down That Day
According to reports, English Jr. was mistaken for a suspect in a hit-and-run. A Black couple and a child involved in an accident ran towards the Kenosha, Wisconsin Applebee’s.When police officers arrived, employees pointed them toward English Jr., sitting with his family at the time. In a video captured by an employee, English Jr. can be seen holding his child as the cops approach him.
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“He tried to go the other way, and they eventually tackled him into a wall, and the baby had his head on the wall. They had at least four cops on his back,” said restaurant manager Jennifer Harris. “At least a cop or two, each grabbing his arm. And still, one cop punching him over and over again in his face.”
Witnesses in the restaurant during the incident said English Jr. and his family were there well before the incident took place.
Police later realized they had the wrong man when they found the family they were looking for hiding in the Applebee’s bathroom.
Even though he was cleared, police still had the audacity to charge him and the woman he was with, Shanya Boyd, with disorderly conduct, resisting and obstructing an officer. Boyd was also accused of marijuana possession.
Spiro is working to get all of the charges dismissed.
The Kenosha PD has launched its internal investigation into the incident.
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Jay-Z is back on Instagram. The “Politics As Usual” rapper has returned to the social media platform to promote The Book Of Clarence movie.
As spotted on Vulture the Brooklyn, New York native has come back to IG. But in signature fashion his most recent post was not in vain but to push Black art even further. “The Book Of Clarence January 2024” the caption read. The post was the official trailer to the film starring LaKeith Stanfield which is being billed as a clever take of the biblical times. This project is directed by Jeymes Samuel. “A down on his luck Jerusalemite embarks on a misguided attempt to capitalize on the rise of celebrity and influence the Messiah for his own personal gain. The journey leads him on an exploration of faith and an unexpected path,” reads the film’s official synopsis.
“Clarence is a person that doesn’t believe in anything outside of what’s in front of him, what he can see and hear,” Samuel recently told Vanity Fair. “Clarence has a lot of inside belief—he has a lot of inside confidence. This man is sure he could fly. He reminds me of me growing up, but unlike me, he has no outside faith. I think it’s just a really interesting vantage point to explore living in that particular time and place, where most everyone around him is speaking about the Messiah.”
The Book Of Clarence will also feature music from Jay-Z. It is slated for a 2024 release. You can view the trailer below.
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Any time Irv Gotti is on Drink Champs he is sure to go viral. The Queens native made a recent visit to the podcast and said that Jay-Z did not need Dame Dash to be successful.
The entertainment mogul sat down with N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN for his third appearance on the popular podcast. The Murder Inc. Records founder spoke on several topics including the backlash he received after slandering Ashanti so excessively. Additionally, he addressed Dame Dash’s recent comments stating that Jay-Z’s “Super Ugly” response to Nas’ “Ether” was Irv Gotti’s fault. “The response, I wasn’t there for the response,” Dash said on the That’s F***ed Up Podcast. “I had landed… Irv Gotti f**ked that one up!”
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When asked about Dash, Irv said bluntly “I don’t think Jay likes Dame. Did I say something that people don’t know already?” He went on to allude that Damon gets too much credit for Hova’s success. “Jay didn’t need nobody. [Dame Dash] started Roc-A-Fella with Jay and Biggs, so he should get credited. I’m saying the making of the records, I don’t know what you want me to say. Jay didn’t need nobody. Jay was picking the beats, Jay was rapping over the beats, Jay was making things. It was all Hov. Dame was along for the ride. It was a great ride.”
Elsewhere in the interview he also revealed that he cut all ties with Fat Joe after Joe called him a sucker for talking bad of Ashanti. “Once you show me who you are or you speak negatively about me, it’s over. His defense and Ja’s defense is they do shows with Ashanti, but Rule will never come out and say, ‘Gotti’s a sucker.’ Fat Joe said, ‘Oh, Gotti’s a sucker.’ I got to pull back and regress from that. Because if I was to go respond or anything with that, it could get crazy. He was on some ‘If I’m your brother I should be able to tell you when you’re wrong.’ My thing is like, you don’t know what went on with me and Ashanti.”
You can see Irv discuss Damon Dash below.
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When Jay-Z famously spit, “Bleek could be one hit away his whole career/As long as I’m alive, he’s a millionaire,” on Kanye West’s “Diamonds (Remix)” it didn’t really do his homie Memphis Bleek any favors career-wise. While the fellow Brooklyn rapper has continued to work hard at his craft—despite not really needing to considering his big homie’s billionaire status—he’s still getting curved when it comes to a joint project with Mr. Carter.
Bleek admitted so during a quick interview with TMZ.
“I’m on that boat, too. I wish,” said Bleek about seeking another collab, whether it be a song or even an EP project. The “Is That Your Chick” rapper is realistic about landing that Hov collab, though. “I don’t think so,” Bleek told TMZ. “Hov too far gone, man! I was supposed to try this when he had $100 million, not a billion. When you got a billion, it’s hard to get you in the booth. Only his wife can do it.”
Beyonce and Jay-Z did drop the critically acclaimed Everything Is Love Project in 2018. But besides the occasional guest verses, it’s been crickets on a Jigga album since 2017’s 4:44 (not counting his essentially riding shotgun on Jay Electronica’s A Written Testimony in 2020). Nevertheless, Bleek isn’t giving up.
“I’m trying,” added Bleek. “I sending joints. I get shot down like a clay pigeon. Something going to stick one day. If we can drop an EP together come on now.”
Will Bleek and Jay-Z be able to close that “Coming of Age” trilogy? He wants y’all to hold your breath, but Jay-Z is notoriously frugal when it comes to his collaborations. For example, 2 Chainz is another artist who has been petitioning for a collab with Jay-Z to no avail.
But don’t let the lack of joint material let you think Bleek and Jay-Z ain’t still cool. He’s a perennial Roc Nation brunch attendee and Jay-Z was there at Bleek’s wedding back in 2014. See Bleek’s interview with TMZ below.
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