Music

29 Nov 2023

Michael Jackson’s ‘Beat It’ Dances Its Way Into YouTube’s Billion Views Club

The King of Pop reigns forever. Despite coming from a completely different era of media, Michael Jackson‘s seminal “Beat It” music video has become the latest clip to reach one billion views on YouTube, as confirmed by the streaming giant on Wednesday (Nov. 29).

“Beat It” is Jackson’s third music video to enter the Billion Views Club, following the Moonwalk-featuring “Billie Jean” and 1996’s “They Don’t Care About Us.” For the period of Nov. 17-23, MJ ranked at #58 on YouTube’s U.S. Top Artists chart and at #96 on their Global Top Artists chart.

Nearly 15 years removed from his tragic passing, Michael Jackson continues to earn new chart achievements off the strength of his timeless catalog. Earlier this month (on the chart dated Nov. 11), Jackson’s accidental Halloween anthem “Thriller” re-entered the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 21, marking the sixth consecutive year that the song has reappeared on Billboard’s marquee singles chart. During its original chart run, the track reached No. 4.

In a matter of days (Dec. 2), a new documentary commemorating 40 years of Jackson’s historic Billboard 200-topping Thriller album will premiere on Showtime and Paramount+. Scores of chart-topping artists, including Usher, Mary J. Blige, Maxwell and Mark Ronson, are slated to appear for interviews in the new film, which will also include previously unseen footage of the making of the album.

Of course, “Beat It” appears on Thriller as one of the album’s seven Hot 100 top 10 hits alongside “Billie Jean” (No. 1), “The Girl Is Mine” (with Paul McCartney, No. 2), “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” (No. 5), “Human Nature” (No. 7), “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” (No. 10) and the aforementioned title track.

Celebrate the King of Pop’s latest achievement by watching the official “Beat It” music video above.

29 Nov 2023

10 First-Timers on Billboard’s Charts This Week: Wyatt Flores, Ye Vagabonds, Nicotine Dolls & More

Billboard has more than 200 different weekly charts, encompassing numerous genres and formats.

While established artists often compete for a spot on the Billboard Hot 100 songs chart and Billboard 200 albums ranking, which track the most popular songs and albums of the week, respectively, up-and-coming talents typically start off on genre-specific lists.

Here’s a look at 10 titles by artists who appear on surveys for the first time on the Dec. 2-dated charts:

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Wyatt Flores



The singer-songwriter from Stillwater, Okla., arrives on Billboard’s charts for the first time with his breakout single “Please Don’t Go,” and his two sets The Hutson Sessions and Life Lessons. The track, released in July 2022 via OEG Records, debuts at No. 43 on Hot Country Songs with 3.4 million U.S. streams (up 26%) Nov. 17-23, according to Luminate. TikTok has been a significant factor in the song’s growing profile, as a portion has been used in over 40,000 clips on the platform.

Flores’ 2022 debut four-track EP The Hutson Sessions (which includes “Please Don’t Go”) debuts at No. 19 on the Heatseekers Albums chart with 3,000 equivalent album units earned, and his new seven-track set Life Lessons enters at No. 24 (2,000 units). Flores released Life Lessons Nov. 17 on OEG/Island/Republic Records – his first release on a major label.

Flores is currently on the road on his Times Are Getting Hard Tour, which runs through mid-December. On Dec. 7 and 8, he’ll support recent Billboard first-timer Charles Wesley Godwin at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium.

Ye Vagabonds



The Irish folk duo, comprising brothers Diarmuid and Brían Mac Gloinn, scores its first Billboard chart appearance, thanks to “The Parting Glass,” with boygenius. Released Nov. 17 on Interscope Records, the collaboration debuts at No. 10 on the Alternative Digital Song Sales chart with 1,000 sold.

“The Parting Glass” is a traditional Scottish folk ballad, also popular in Ireland. It’s often sung at the end of a gathering of friends, similar to “Auld Lang Syne.” On the new version, boygenius’ Phoebe Bridgers, Julien Baker and Lucy Dacus trade vocals, while the Gloinn brothers provide instrumentation. The song was released as a tribute to the late Sinead O’Connor, who also recorded it for her 2002 album, Sean-Nos Nua. The cover art for the new song is a photo of O’Connor, with proceeds going towards the Aisling Project, an after-school initiative to help children growing up in disadvantaged areas of Dublin, Ireland.

Ye Vagabonds have released three LPs: Ye Vagabonds (2017), The Hare’s Lament (2019) and Nine Waves (2022).

Nicotine Dolls



The New York City-based band lands on Billboard’s charts for the first time, thanks to its cover of Tina Turner’s classic hit “The Best.” The song, released Nov. 17 on Nettwerk Music Group, debuts at No. 9 on Rock Digital Song Sales with 1,000 sold. TikTok has been a key factor in the song’s rise, as the cover went viral on the platform leading up to its official release.

Nicotine Dolls are fronted by lead singer Sam Cieri and also comprises John Hays (guitar), John Merritt (bass) and Abel Tabares (drums). Cieri appeared on NBC’s America’s Got Talent in 2022 and was part of the second national tour of the musical Once (playing one of the leads, Guy) in 2016-17.

Turner’s original recording only reached No. 15 on the Hot 100 in 1989, but has since become one of her seminal songs. The track is her second-most-streamed song in the U.S. in her career (after “What’s Love Got To Do With It”), since Luminate began tracking music data in 1991.

Ocean Alley



The Australian psychedelic rock band draws its first Billboard chart placement with its single “Confidence.” The song, released in 2018 on the act’s album Chiaroscuro, debuts at No. 27 on the Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart with 2.6 million U.S. streams (up 35%), boosted by buzz on TikTok. It’s also new at No. 15 on Hot Alternative Songs and No. 21 on Hot Rock Songs.

Ocean Alley, from the Northern Beaches of New South Wales, Australia, has released four LPs: Lost Tropics (2016), Chiaroscuro (2018), Lonely Diamond (2020) and Low Altitude Living (2022). The latter two sets both reached No. 3 on the Australian Albums chart. The band comprises Nic Blom, Baden Donegal, Lach and Mitch Galbraith, Angus Goodwin and Tom O’Brien.

Sistek & Sadie Rose Van



Both artists score their first Billboard chart entry, as their collaboration “Pull You Closer,” released Sept. 29 on Armada Music, begins at No. 36 on Dance/Mix Show Airplay (up 17% in plays). Sistek, a DJ and producer from Santiago, Chile, has been releasing music since 2017. He has also collaborated with Rosie Darling, Ethan Hodges and Mark Mendy, among others. Sadie Van Rose, from Southern California, has released over a dozen songs, all since 2019, including tracks with Ryan Ennis and Matoma.

Maxine Ashley



The singer-songwriter reaches Billboard’s charts for the first time with her single “Somebody Else.” Released Oct. 13 on JBR, it debuts at No. 40 on Rhythmic Airplay (up 34% in plays). Ashley has been releasing music since 2014. She dropped her debut four-track EP Intuition in 2019 and collaborated with Black Coffee and Sun-El Musician on “You Need Me” in 2021. The song is from Black Coffee’s Subconsciously, which won for best dance/electronic music album at the Grammy Awards in 2022.

Saxl Rose



The multi-instrumentalist, producer and touring musician earns his first-ever Billboard chart hit, thanks to his featured appearance on Jacob Webb’s “All In.” The song, released in August on Next Paradigm, debuts at No. 23 on Smooth Jazz Airplay (up 32% in spins).

Saxl Rose (real name: Antonio Hancock; his name is a play on his go-to instrument, the saxophone, and Guns N’ Roses’ Axl Rose) has performed onstage alongside many other artists, including Chris Brown, Paramore, The Used and Wiz Khalifa. Earlier this year, he collaborated with Motionless in White on a “synthwave” version of the group’s viral track “Werewolf.” He is also active on social media, where he posts videos of himself adding his signature saxophone solos to popular songs.

Cody Webb



The singer lands his first Billboard-charting hit, thanks to “Out of This World.” The track, which he self-released in November 2018, debuts at No. 24 on the Holiday Digital Song Sales chart with 1,000 sold. Webb released his debut self-titled six-track set in 2016. He has served up a string of songs in 2023 alone, including “If Daddy Didn’t Have a Truck,” “Don’t Grow Up Too Fast” and “Peaches.” Outside of his own recorded music, he’s also written songs for other artists, including Luke Combs (“Memories Are Made Of”).

Riordan



The DJ makes his Billboard chart debut with “Needle on the Record.” The song dropped Nov. 10 on REALM Records and debuts at No. 11 on Dance/Electronic Digital Song Sales. Riordan, from the United Kingdom, has released eight house tracks on streaming services, all since 2020.

Melinda Lindner



Lindner notches her first Billboard chart hit thanks to her new cover of “White Christmas.” The song, released Oct. 20 on her holiday album Melinda Lindner… At Christmas on Heaven Records, debuts at No. 25 on Adult Contemporary. Lindner has been releasing music, including other covers of popular hits, since 2020. She released her debut eight-track studio album It Only Happens With You in July.

Lindner’s new recording was produced by Michael Lloyd who, notably, hit the Hot 100 in 1975 as a member of the trio Cotton, Lloyd & Christian with its cover of Peter and Gordon’s “I Go to Pieces.” He also produced songs by Shaun Cassidy and the Osmonds in the ‘70s and Belinda Carlise’s No. 3-peaking 1986 hit “Mad About You.”

Irving Berlin wrote “White Christmas” for the 1942 film Holiday Inn, and it has since become a holiday standard. Bing Crosby’s recording, with Ken Darby Singers and John Scott Trotter and His Orchestra, debuted on the Hot 100 in 1958 (the chart’s inaugural year) and peaked at No. 12 in 1962. The song has re-entered the Hot 100 every year since 2018. Last season, it reached No. 16, its highest rank since its 1962 peak. One other version of “White Christmas” has charted on the Hot 100: The Drifters’ 1956 classic, featuring Clyde McPhatter and Bill Pinkney, reached No. 88 in 1962.

“It’s been a forever dream of mine to have my first Billboard hit,” Lindner tells Billboard. “‘White Christmas’ is one of my and my mom’s very favorite holiday songs. It has a very special place in my heart.”

29 Nov 2023

Bad Bunny Has Spotify’s Most Streamed Album Globally of 2023

Today marks the launch of Spotify‘s Wrapped program, revealing the most streamed artists, songs and albums of 2023. Bad Bunny’s Un Verano Sin Ti has secured the title of most streamed album globally, accumulating 4.5 billion plays on the streaming platform, according to Spotify. Notably, Bunny’s top-charting album — produced by Mag and Tainy — wasn’t a new release this year; rather, it retains its position from the previous year.

In the most streamed artist globally category, El Conejo Malo takes second place; he topped the list the previous three years in a row. Taylor Swift takes the prize as Spotify’s most streamed artist of 2023.

Overall on the Latin music scope, the genre continues its global dominance, achieving a historic milestone on the streaming platform with the highest number of Latin songs reaching the No. 1 spot with eight. The top 50 most streamed global artists featured 16 Latin artists, including Bad Bunny at No. 2, as mentioned above, and Peso Pluma, the year’s breakout Mexican star at No. 5, who debuted with more than 9 billion streams.

Notable additions in the top 50 also include Feid at No. 6, KAROL G at No. 9, Junior H at No. 18, Rauw Alejandro at No. 21, and Shakira at No. 22. This marks a significant 60% increase compared to 2022 when 10 Latin artists made it to the Global Top 50.

As for the most streamed song globally, Miley Cyrus’ “Flowers” earns No. 1, which accumulated 1.6 billion streams and hit an eight-week Billboard Hot 100 streak at No. 1.

See how Latin artists fared on Spotify’s charts below, and get the full look at the streaming platform’s results across genres here.

Most Streamed Latin Artists Globally 

  1. Bad Bunny 
  2. Peso Pluma
  3. Feid
  4. KAROL G
  5. Junior H 

Most Streamed Latin Female Artists Globally 

  1. KAROL G
  2. Shakira
  3. ROSALÍA
  4. Ana Castela
  5. Kali Uchis

Most-Streamed Latin Songs Globally

  1. “Ella Baila Sola” by Eslabon Armado, Peso Pluma
  2. “Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53” by Bizarrap, Shakira
  3. “TQG” by KAROL G, Shakira
  4. “La Bebe – Remix” by Yng Lvcas, Peso Pluma
  5. “un x100to” by Grupo Frontera, Bad Bunny

U.S. Most-Streamed Latin Artists

  1. Bad Bunny
  2. Peso Pluma
  3. Junior H
  4. KAROL G
  5. Fuerza Regida

U.S. Most-Streamed Latin Songs

  1. “Ella Baila Sola” by Eslabon Armado, Peso Pluma
  2. “La Bebe – Remix” by Yng Lvcas, Peso Pluma
  3. “un x100to” by Grupo Frontera, Bad Bunny
  4. “PRC” by Peso Pluma, Natanael Cano
  5. “AMG” by Natanael Cano Peso Pluma

29 Nov 2023

Harvey Brittain’s Journey From Berklee Student To iTunes Charting Artist

This article was written in partnership with No Fortune

Harvey Brittain, the 21-year-old sensation hailing from the UK, is making waves in the music industry, and his journey is nothing short of inspiring. With a unique blend of pop and jazz influences, Harvey’s music stands out in a crowded field, capturing the hearts of listeners around the globe.

Harvey’s love affair with music began at the young age of four when he first laid his hands on a piano. Growing up in a musical household where his father was a musician, it’s no surprise that Harvey’s soul resonated with the magic of music. He immersed himself in melodies, and his innate talent allowed him to recreate tunes by ear, much to the chagrin of his piano teacher. Despite the classical music exams he reluctantly endured, Harvey’s heart was drawn to the world of jazz. Influenced by legendary artists like Herbie Hancock, Oscar Peterson, and Chick Corea, he yearned to improvise and explore the uncharted territories of music. As he honed his skills, he discovered his singing voice and began crafting his own compositions.

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Harvey’s journey took a pivotal turn when he started performing at small gigs while still in school. He even auditioned for major television shows like Britain’s Got Talent and The X Factor, gracing stages at prestigious venues like Wembley Arena and The London Palladium. Yet, Harvey felt that these avenues weren’t authentic to his artistic vision.

In 2020, a golden opportunity arose when Harvey secured a scholarship to the illustrious Berklee College of Music in the USA. The acceptance letter was a dream come true, but the financial shortfall threatened to shatter that dream. Undeterred, Harvey embarked on a quest to secure sponsors and support. His determination led to a remarkable encounter with bestselling author Lee Child, who graciously backed his journey to Berklee. Lee Child’s act of generosity left an indelible mark on Harvey, instilling in him the importance of paying it forward. Harvey is determined to support others in their pursuit of dreams, just as he was supported on his journey.

Fast forwarding to June of 2022, Harvey used his momentum to release his debut record, “Honest.” Produced in collaboration with American producer H4RRIS, this single skyrocketed into the top 50 of the iTunes Pop Top 100 in the US. The accompanying music video, shot around Boston and executively produced by Lee Child, showcased Harvey’s creative spirit and boundless energy.

Harvey Brittain’s journey from a young piano prodigy to a rising star in the music industry is a testament to the power of talent, determination, and the support of those who believe in you. As he continues to create music that resonates with audiences worldwide, Harvey’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists everywhere. Keep an eye out for his upcoming singles, and remember his promise to pay it forward, ensuring that the magic of music continues to thrive in the hearts of future generations. Harvey Brittain is a name you’ll want to remember as he continues to light up the music scene with his passion and talent.

29 Nov 2023

Housefires, JWLKRS Worship, Blake Wiggins & Ryan Ellis’ ‘I Thank God’ Tops Christian Airplay Charts

Housefires and JWLKRS Worship rise to No. 1 on Billboard’s Christian Airplay chart dated Dec. 2 with “I Thank God,” featuring Blake Wiggins and Ryan Ellis.

The collaboration also reaches No. 1 on Christian AC Airplay.

During the Nov. 17-23 tracking week, the song drew 5.4 million audience impressions, according to Luminate.

“I Thank God” was written by Dante Bowe, Chuck Butler, Jesse Cline, Maryanne George, Enrique Holmes and Aaron Moses. It was produced by Tony Brown, Jonathan Jay and Aaron Robertson.

The song is the first entry on both Christian Airplay and Christian AC Airplay for Atlanta-based worship collective Housefires, following four entries, including two top 10s, on Top Christian Albums: Housefires lll hit No. 3 in September 2016 and We Say Yes reached No. 6 in June 2017.

On the streaming-, airplay- and sales-based Hot Christian Songs survey, the act has logged five tracks. “I Thank God” lifts 14-13 on the latest list, a new career high for Housefires.

Orlando, Fla.-based JWLKRS Worship (the first word in their name is pronounced Jaywalkers) logged one prior Christian Airplay appearance as “Silence” reached No. 43 in August, as well as No. 31 on Hot Christian Songs in February.

“I Thank God” marks the first billed Christian Airplay and Christian AC Airplay entry for Wiggins, who is a member of Housefires. Ellis, meanwhile, has one additional top 10 on both lists: his own “Heart of the Father” hit No. 3 on the rankings in 2022.

Angel Taylor’s ‘Speak’ Now No. 1

Angel Taylor ascends to No. 1 on Gospel Airplay with her first solo entry on the chart, “Speak,” which increased by 13% in plays Nov. 17-23.

Taylor is one of the founding members of Trin-I-Tee 5:7, which formed in New Orleans in 1997. The act has notched three No. 1s on Top Gospel Albums: its self-titled LP, in 1998; Spiritual Love (2000); and Angel & Chanelle (2011).

The outfit has earned three top 10s on Gospel Airplay: “Listen” (No. 9, 2008), “Over & Over” (No. 2, 2011) and “Spirit Break Out” (No. 3, 2016).

29 Nov 2023

Drake’s ‘Dogs’ Deluxe Draws Double Debuts in Top 10 on Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs Chart

Drake scores another pair of top 10 hits on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart as “You Broke My Heart” and “Evil Ways,” featuring J. Cole, debut at Nos. 5 and 10, respectively, on the list dated Dec. 2. Both songs spring from the deluxe “Scary Hours” edition of the rapper’s latest studio album, For All the Dogs, which rebounds to No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard 200 and grabs a seventh straight week in charge of Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums.

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In addition to a top-five start on the multi-metric Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart — which combines streaming, radio airplay and sales into its rankings — “You Broke My Heart” also leads the six new deluxe Dogs additions in streams for the week. The cut registered 18.3 million official U.S. streams in the tracking week of Nov. 17 – 23, according to Luminate, and opens at No. 2 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Streaming Songs chart.

“Evil Ways,” meanwhile, wins the sales race among the new half-dozen tunes. The collaboration sold 2,500 downloads in the week, enough to nab a No. 3 entrance on R&B/Hip-Hop Digital Song Sales.

With two new top 10 deposits, Drake’s account swells to 130 such hits on Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs. It extends his record for the most top 10s among all artists, which the superstar took from James Brown in February 2018. Here’s an updated count of the acts with the most top 10s on the chart, dating to October 1958, when the chart became the first all-encompassing songs survey for the genre:

  • 130, Drake
  • 57, James Brown
  • 52, Aretha Franklin
  • 51, Lil Wayne
  • 48, Stevie Wonder

Plus, the “Evil Ways” arrival secures J. Cole’s 27th top 10 on Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and third of 2023. Both prior visits this year – also through featured roles – captured the No. 1 slot, with the Lil Durk-collab “All My Life” leading the list for seven weeks and another Drake teamup, “First Person Shooter,” reigning for one frame.

Beyond the new top 10s, the other four deluxe Dogs cuts all land in the top 25 on this week’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs. “Red Button” begins at No. 15, with “The Shoe Fits” (No. 16), “Stories About My Brother” (No. 18) and “Wick Man” (No. 23) closely behind.

29 Nov 2023

Offset Announces 2nd Annual Toyz 4 the Nawf Charity Event: ‘I’m Excited to Bless Others’

To close out his banner year — which included an appearance on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs Year-End Chart (“Annihilate,” No. 100) — Offset has announced his plans and goals for his second annual Toyz 4 the Nawf Christmas charity event.

The event will return to Offsett’s hometown of Gwinnett County, Ga., on Dec. 2. “We had a great turn out last year, and I’m hoping for an even better one this year,” Offset said in a statement. “I’ve been so blessed this year, I’m excited to bless others. That’s the reason for the season.”

Offset launched the event last December with the assistance of more than 85 community volunteers and partnerships, including the Lawrenceville Boys & Girls Club and BGLOs such as Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. More than $35,000 in toys was distributed across 248 families, including around 500 children. Last year’s Toyz 4 the Nawf event netted both the charity and the “FAN” rapper an honorary key to Gwinnett County and an honorary key to the city of Lawrenceville, Ga..

As a father of five — including Kulture Kiari Cephus and Wave Set Cephus, his children with his Grammy-winning wife Cardi B — Offset’s own experience with fatherhood has spurred him to set even more ambitious goals for the sophomore iteration of Toyz 4 the Nawf. Most of the goals focus on expanding the services provided by the charity event, including a winter coat drive, on-site wellness checks, raising awareness for the Internet Affordable Connectivity Program, barber services for kids and a hope to double the number of families served.

This year’s event — which Offset is hosting in partnership with the Ann Cephus Family Fund Corporation — will have a “Christmas carnival” theme, with fun eats such as cotton candy and corn dogs available to all.

Toyz 4 the Nawf will help put a cap on a big year for Offset. In 2023, the Migos rapper unleashed his sophomore studio album Set It Off, which peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 and spawned the Billboard Hot 100-charting singles “Jealousy” (with Cardi B, No. 55), “Say My Grace” (with Travis Scott, No. 48) and “Worth It” (with Don Toliver, No. 92).

29 Nov 2023

Travis Kelce Shouts Out Taylor Swift for Liking a Post About His New NFL Record

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have got this whole supportive couple thing on lock. Soon after the 33-year-old pop star showed some love to the 34-year-old football player’s exciting new NFL record on social media, Kelce gave his superstar girlfriend a special shoutout on his New Heights podcast Wednesday (Nov. 29).

The sweet moment came after Travis’ older brother and podcast co-host Jason Kelce, who plays center for the Philadelphia Eagles, brought up Swift’s headline-making “like” on a post from the Kansas City Chiefs’ official Instagram account celebrating the tight end’s latest feat: fourth and fastest player to reach 11,000 receiving yards in NFL history, and the only Chiefs player to ever do it.

“Thanks, Tay,” Travis said, suddenly bashful. “I appreciate you.”

Jason went on to sarcastically ask whether the “Anti-Hero” singer has always been such a fan of NFL tight-end news, to which Travis said, “I’m not sure, that’s a good question.”

“Maybe, I don’t know,” he added, smiling. “I don’t know if she’s a fan of tight ends or not. I’ll have to ask her.”

The latest podcast episode comes days after fans went wild over Swift giving the Chiefs’ post a double tap, the second time she’s done so to “like” a post about her new beau. She also “liked” a post about Travis becoming Kansas City’s all-time leading receiver earlier this month.

The pop star’s most overt show of love for Travis so far, however, was definitely when she changed her “Karma” lyrics onstage at an Eras Tour show in Rio de Janeiro to “Karma is the guy on the Chiefs coming straight home to me.” Immediately after, videos from the concert show that a blushing Travis hid his face in his hands before continuing to dance along to Swift’s performance, after which they shared a big hug and kiss.

Watch Travis thank “Tay” on New Heights above.

29 Nov 2023

Machine Gun Kelly Offers Travis Kelce $500K to Leave Kansas City Chiefs for Cleveland Browns 

Look out, Chiefs Kingdom — there are some powerful forces at play trying to poach Travis Kelce. In a hilarious moment on the Wednesday (Nov. 29) episode of the New Heights podcast, Machine Gun Kelly genuinely tried to bribe the tight end to leave Kansas City for the Browns in Cleveland, which both MGK and Kelce have called home. 

“I’m sure you get asked this question behind closed doors a lot, but I would be remiss if due to the nature of our friendship and just as a Clevelander if I did not insert this question personally,” began the rapper-turned-rocker, calling in to New Heights with a surprise request.  

“I will give you $500,000 cash upon arrival just for shopping or whatever you want,” he continued. “As well as matching that same amount as a donation to both of our high schools — both Shaker Heights and Cleveland Heights — as well as every day breakfast and coffee delivery from my restaurant, if you would just come home and put on these colors right here.” 

“Come on home, Trav!” added the “My Ex’s Best Friend” musician. “Come home, put these colors on and rock the city.”

Both Travis and his older brother/podcast co-host Jason Kelce — who plays center on the Philadelphia Eagles and was later extended the same offer by MGK — laughed out loud with bewildered shock. “You know that was the original dream, dawg,” Travis replied. “You know that was the dream!”

And although the 34-year-old football star admitted it was “an intriguing offer,” Chiefs fans need not worry. He won’t be sporting an orange and brown uniform any time soon (and consequently, his superstar girlfriend Taylor Swift will probably stick to watching his games from her usual suite in Arrowhead Stadium). “You know how much we love the East side of Cleveland, the Heights,” Travis told his friend. “I’m not gonna lie, the situation’s pretty good in Kansas City.”

“My fingers [are] crossed, there is no decision that needs to be made right now, but just know my offer is real and it’s on the table,” conceded MGK, noting he’d be sending new music soon to Travis, who he called his “secret muse.”

Watch the new episode of New Heights above.

29 Nov 2023

With ‘Rich Baby Daddy,’ Drake Banks 39th No. 1 on Rhythmic Airplay

Drake blasts into another orbit on Billboard’s Rhythmic Airplay chart as the list’s most frequent chart-topper adds to his staggering total, earning a 39th career No. 1 with “Rich Baby Daddy” featuring Sexyy Red and SZA.

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“Rich Baby Daddy” jumps from No. 3 to lead the chart dated Dec. 2. The song’s advance comes after a 24% spike in plays that made it the most-played song on U.S. monitored rhythmic radio stations in the week ending Nov. 23, according to Luminate. By reaching the summit in its sixth chart week, “Rich Baby Daddy” becomes Drake’s eighth leader to have wrapped its run to No. 1 in six weeks or less. Here’s a look at his quickest climbs to the penthouse among the 39 chart-toppers:

Weeks to No. 1, Song Title, Artist (if other than Drake), Date Reached No. 1

  • 4, “In My Feelings,” Aug. 11, 2018
  • 5, “God’s Plan,” March 3, 2018
  • 5, “Toosie Slide,” May 9, 2020
  • 6, “Work,” Rihanna featuring Drake, March 19, 2016
  • 6, “One Dance,” featuring Wizkid & Kyla, May 28, 2016
  • 6, “Nice for What,” May 26, 2018
  • 6, “Way 2 Sexy,” featuring Future & Young Thug, Oct. 23, 2021
  • 6, “Rich Baby Daddy,” featuring Sexyy Red & SZA, Dec. 2, 2023

As he banks his newest Rhythmic Airplay victory, Drake extends his record for the most champs among all artists. His latest, though, comes with a bonus. With 39 No. 1s, he now has at least three times as many leaders as every other act who has ever hit the top of the list — save for only Rihanna, who has 17 No. 1s. Here’s a look at the current leaderboard for the most No. 1s in Rhythmic Airplay history, which dates to October 1992:

  • 39, Drake
  • 17, Rihanna
  • 13, Bruno Mars
  • 13, Chris Brown
  • 13, The Weeknd
  • 13, Usher
  • 12, Beyoncé
  • 12, Lil Wayne

For Sexyy Red, “Rich Baby Daddy” secures the breakout rapper her first Rhythmic Airplay No. 1 with her third appearance. She previously landed hits on the radio ranking with two viral-turned-radio hits: “Pound Town 2” with Tay Keith and Nicki Minaj, which reached No. 19 in August, and “SkeeYee,” which repeats at its No. 13 peak for a second frame.

SZA, meanwhile, nabs her fifth Rhythmic Airplay champ and third of 2023, tying Drake and Ice Spice for the most this year. The R&B hitmaker first ruled the radio chart via a featured spot on Doja Cat’s two-week champ “Kiss Me More” in 2021. Between “Kiss Me More” and “Rich Baby Daddy,” SZA ruled with three of her own tracks: “I Hate U” (one week, 2021), “Kill Bill” (three weeks, 2023) and “Snooze” (two weeks, 2023).

“Rich Baby Daddy” appears on Drake’s latest studio album, For All the Dogs, which gave the superstar his 13th champ on all-genre Billboard 200 albums chart. Thanks to the arrival of a deluxe edition release with six new tracks, the set rallies from No. 4 to earn a second week at the summit on this week’s chart.