Don’t miss this powerful Sway In The Morning exclusive! Rap Queen Rapsody opens up about her new album and the emotional struggles behind its creation. In this heartfelt interview, she dives deep into the pain and growth that shaped her latest project, Please Don’t Cry. From heartbreaks and healing during the pandemic to breaking barriers in hip-hop, Rapsody’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Watch as she recounts her collaboration with legends like Robert Glasper and Anthony Hamilton, and how she navigates being an anomaly in the industry. This is hip-hop at its rawest and most authentic—Rapsody like you’ve never seen her before.
Westeros fans, the fiery Game of Thrones prequel is almost back! House of the Dragon Season 2 is quickly approaching its premiere date, and the excitement is through the roof! Based on George R.R. Martin’s epic Fire & Blood, this series dives into the Targaryen civil war, nearly 200 years before Robert Baratheon claimed the Iron Throne. As tensions rise between the Greens and the Blacks, Season 2 promises even more thrilling action on the battlefield, at sea, and in the skies. Who’s ready for more Dragon drama? Share your thoughts and theories! #HouseOfTheDragon #GameOfThrones #TargaryenWar
House of the Dragon Season 2 Premiere Date
Mark your calendars for Sunday, June 16 at 9/8c on HBO and Max! The dragons are set to soar again, reigniting old feuds and sparking new ones. Don’t miss out! Who’s excited? Share your thoughts and join the convo!
What Will House of the Dragon Season 2 Be About?
At the same press conference, the cast shared what viewers can expect. Matt Smith, who plays Daemon Targaryen, said that “Grief is the great sort of catalyst of the season.” For Daemon, everything centers around the death of his brother, Viserys Targaryen, which sends shockwaves across Westeros. Emma D’Arcy, who portrays Rhaenyra Targaryen — Viserys’ only child and now Daemon’s wife — mentioned that Viserys’ death puts a strain on her relationship with Daemon. “I’m not sure either of them can find comfort in each other after losing Viserys,” D’Arcy said.
Another significant loss to address is Rhaenyra’s son, Lucerys Targaryen (Elliot Grihault), who was killed in the Season 1 finale. Condal commented, “Vhagar killing Luke felt like a big turning point in how things will be viewed. And then, what are [the Blacks] going to do next — what’s the counterpunch?” The trailers suggest the story picks up shortly after Luke’s tragic death.
House of the Dragon Season 2 Trailers
Just over a month before the season premiere, Max released a thrilling new trailer. “F— dignity, I want revenge,” shouts Aegon II Targaryen (Tom Glynn-Carney) in the clip, a line likely to become one of the temperamental king’s most iconic. If this trailer doesn’t get you hyped for Season 2, then perhaps nothing will.
Key Cast Members Returning
Season 2 will feature many familiar faces:
Emma D’Arcy as Rhaenyra Targaryen
Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen
Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower
Rhys Ifans as Otto Hightower
Steve Toussaint as Corlys Velaryon
Eve Best as Rhaenys Velaryon
And new additions to the cast include:
Clinton Liberty as Addam of Hull
Jamie Kenna as Ser Alfred Broome
As we edge closer to the premiere, the anticipation only grows. Get ready for another epic chapter in the saga of House Targaryen!
In a disturbing development, surveillance footage has emerged showing music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs assaulting his then-girlfriend Cassie in a Los Angeles hotel eight years ago. The footage, which CNN recently aired, corroborates the allegations detailed in Cassie’s November lawsuit against Diddy.
The incident took place on March 5, 2016, at the now-closed InterContinental Hotel in Century City. The video shows Cassie wandering the hallways, seemingly heading towards the elevators. Moments later, Diddy is seen chasing after her, clad only in a towel. Upon catching up, he strikes and kicks her before attempting, unsuccessfully, to drag her back to their room.
In a subsequent clip, Cassie is seen trying to make a call using the hotel phone. Diddy reappears, throwing a vase at someone off-camera—presumably Cassie—before returning to their room while continuing to shout at her.
A 2016 video shows Sean "Diddy" Combs assaulting then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura in an altercation that matches some allegations in now-settled lawsuit https://t.co/fYUQ2z2MYN
Cassie’s lawsuit described this harrowing event in detail: “In or around March 2016, during an FO at the InterContinental Hotel in Century City, Los Angeles, Mr. Combs became extremely intoxicated and punched Ms. Ventura in the face, giving her a black eye.” The suit went on to state, “After he fell asleep, Ms. Ventura tried to leave the hotel room, but as she exited, Mr. Combs awoke and began screaming at Ms. Ventura. He followed her into the hallway of the hotel while yelling at her.”
The lawsuit further noted, “He grabbed at her and then took glass vases in the hallway and threw them at her, causing glass to crash around them as she ran to the elevator to escape.” This incident was just one of many instances of alleged abuse and illegal conduct outlined in her complaint, which was ultimately settled out of court.
Diddy has consistently denied Cassie’s allegations. In the wake of her lawsuit, other women have also come forward with accusations of sexual misconduct against him, all of which he has refuted. These allegations have since sparked a federal investigation.
Regarding potential legal repercussions for this specific incident, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) say that the statute of limitations would prevent them from opening a new case. For incidents occurring before January 2020, the statute of limitations is three years, extending to five years for those after January 2020. Consequently, the LAPD will not be pursuing criminal charges related to this 2016 incident.
This surveillance footage brings a troubling chapter in Cassie’s life to light, highlighting the physical and emotional abuse she endured and raising questions about accountability and justice in cases of domestic violence.
Great news for hip-hop fans! Torae has renewed his contract with SiriusXM, meaning listeners can continue to enjoy his dynamic radio shows, “The Tor Guide” on Hip-Hop Nation and “That Raw” on LL Cool J’s Rock The Bells Radio. Both shows have become essential listening for anyone passionate about hip-hop music and culture.
For those who love starting their mornings with the best in hip-hop, “The Tor Guide” will keep its prime slot on Hip-Hop Nation, airing weekdays from 6 am to 12 noon EST on channel 44. Torae’s engaging personality and in-depth knowledge of hip-hop make “The Tor Guide” a must-listen for early risers craving the latest hits, classic tracks, and insightful commentary.
“That Raw” on LL Cool J’s Rock The Bells Radio remains a cornerstone for fans of hip-hop’s golden era. Continuing to broadcast Monday through Friday at 7 pm Eastern and Saturdays at 4 pm on channel 43, “That Raw” provides an unfiltered look at the genre’s history and its ongoing influence. Torae’s authentic representation of hip-hop makes “That Raw” a unique and invaluable show for true hip-hop aficionados.
Torae’s renewal with SiriusXM underscores his role as a significant voice in the hip-hop community. “I’m excited to continue this journey with SiriusXM and our listeners,” Torae said. “Hip-hop is more than music; it’s a culture and a community. I’m honored to be part of its storytelling.
In addition to his weekday shows, Torae will now join Hip-Hop Nation’s Saturday lineup from 8 am until 12 noon EST. This expansion offers fans even more opportunities to connect with Torae’s expert programming and passion for hip-hop. You can also catch Torae on May 26th paired up with Skyzoo in NYC for the 10 year anniversary of the Barrel Brothers.
Yo, heads up! ScHoolboy Q, the West Coast hip-hop heavyweight and a five-time GRAMMY® nominee, is marking a decade since his legendary debut LP dropped with a sick limited-edition Oxymoron (10th Anniversary Edition) vinyl. Set to hit the streets on June 14 via Interscope Records/UMe, this piece is straight-up essential for any legit collector or true hip-hop head.
Don’t sleep on this – it’s not just another release. It’s a nod to a decade of game-changing tracks that have left their mark on the scene. Ready to cop this piece of history? Pre-save here.
For the first time, this anniversary edition includes fan faves like “Oxymoron” and “Californication” [feat. A$AP Rocky]. Plus, mark your calendars for July 26 when exclusive clear and silver vinyls hit Target stores nationwide. This special release is definitely something you’ll want to snag for your collection.
A Celebration of Musical Excellence and Cultural Impact
On May 11, 2024, the Agganis Arena in Boston was filled with excitement and celebration as Berklee College of Music held its annual commencement ceremony. This year, the prestigious institution honored three exceptional artists with honorary doctorates: Grammy Award-winning rapper and producer Q-Tip, Grammy-winning R&B singer and songwriter Ledisi, and Grammy- and Latin Grammy-winning bandleader and sonero Gilberto Santa Rosa. The degrees were presented by Berklee’s Interim Executive Vice President Betsy Newman.
Q-Tip: A Pioneer in Hip-Hop Culture
Q-Tip, a founding member of the legendary hip-hop group A Tribe Called Quest, was recognized for his significant contributions to early hip-hop culture and his innovative fusion of rap, jazz, and other musical styles. Berklee celebrated his socially conscious lyrics, his impact as a producer, actor, educator, and cultural ambassador.
During his acceptance speech, Q-Tip shared words of wisdom with the graduates, saying, “To choose this path [of the artist] is a courageous choice indeed. You are handed the task to be courageous in your personal lives, to find balance between intellect and instinct . . . to not let bad choices define you, but to refine you.” He encouraged them to celebrate their personal accomplishments as “precious mantras . . . to remind you that you are worthy, and that you can do it. You got this!”
In an Instagram post, Q-Tip expressed his gratitude for the honorary doctorate, sharing how honored he felt to receive it alongside such esteemed artists as Ledisi and Gilberto Santa Rosa.
Ledisi: An Inspirational Journey of Resilience
Ledisi, who has served as an artist in residence at the Berklee Institute of Jazz and Gender Justice since 2022, captivated the audience with her heartfelt acceptance speech. She spoke about overcoming adversity throughout her career, recalling how she had been told, “that I wasn’t pretty enough, you’ll never make it, and I’m still here.” This resilience fueled her creativity, leading to a song that garnered her first Grammy nomination.
During the commencement, Ledisi performed her hit song “Pieces of Me” and a special rendition of the gospel classic “Take My Hand, Precious Lord.” Her powerful voice and emotional delivery left a lasting impression on everyone present.
Gilberto Santa Rosa: A Legacy of Latin Music
Gilberto Santa Rosa, known as “El Caballero de la Salsa,” was celebrated for his remarkable contributions to Latin music. His charisma and talent as a bandleader and sonero have earned him numerous accolades, including Grammy and Latin Grammy awards.
Santa Rosa joined Berklee students on stage for a vibrant performance of his song “Que Alguien Me Diga,” showcasing his enduring passion for music and his ability to connect with audiences across generations.
A Night to Remember
The commencement ceremony featured a medley of performances by Berklee’s most talented vocalists, instrumentalists, arrangers, track producers, dancers, and visual artists. They honored the recipients with renditions of their greatest hits, including Q-Tip’s “Vivrant Thing” and Santa Rosa’s “Perdóname.”
This memorable evening was a testament to the power of music to inspire, unite, and transcend boundaries. The honorary doctorates awarded to Q-Tip, Ledisi, and Gilberto Santa Rosa not only celebrate their individual achievements but also highlight their collective impact on the world of music and culture.
As the graduates of Berklee College of Music embark on their own artistic journeys, they carry with them the wisdom and inspiration of these iconic artists, ready to make their mark on the world.
Music has always been a powerful force, transcending boundaries and forging new bonds. This Labor Day weekend, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Black culture at the Blue Note Jazz Festival’s Black Radio Experience in Napa Valley, California. From August 30 to September 1, 2024, the picturesque landscape of Napa will serve as the perfect canvas for an unforgettable journey of music, food, wine, and unparalleled vibes.
The Event: A Celebration of Artistry and Culture
The Black Radio Experience is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of Black culture and artistry, curated by the renowned, GRAMMY-winning musician Robert Glasper. This exclusive weekend getaway promises to be the premier Labor Day celebration for the cultured, suave, and sophisticated.
Key Highlights:
Renowned Artists: With Robert Glasper at the helm, the lineup features musical legends such as John Legend, Jill Scott, Andre 3000, Nile Rodgers & Chic, Andra Day, Ledisi, Common & Pete Rock, Musiq Soulchild, Marsha Ambrosius, Madly, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and many more.
Exclusive Experiences: Enjoy artist-led events that offer a rare chance to interact with and learn from these musical icons.
Culinary Delights: Savor signature culinary events that pair world-class music with Napa Valley’s renowned cuisine, creating a unique sensory experience.
Wine Tastings: Indulge in wine tastings from local vineyards, perfectly complementing the music and enhancing the festival’s sophisticated ambiance.
Scenic Venue: The festival will take place at the beautiful Meritage Resort & Spa, offering on-site room accommodations (limited availability) and a stunning backdrop for the event.
At the heart of the Black Radio Experience is Robert Glasper, whose visionary approach to music has redefined contemporary jazz and soul. His collaboration with artists like Musiq Soulchild and Marsha Ambrosius promises to deliver performances that will be nothing short of magical.
Stellar Lineup
The festival boasts an impressive lineup of over 30 artists spread across three stages. From the soulful melodies of John Legend and Jill Scott to the electrifying performances of Andre 3000 and Nile Rodgers & Chic, there’s something for every music lover. The diverse roster ensures a vibrant and dynamic musical experience.
Hosted by Sway Calloway
The event will be hosted by none other than Sway Calloway, adding an extra layer of charisma and excitement. Known for his engaging personality and deep connection to the music industry, Sway will guide attendees through this extraordinary journey.
What to Expect
1. Breathtaking Location
The Meritage Resort & Spa in Napa Valley offers the perfect setting for the Black Radio Experience. Its beautiful surroundings and luxurious amenities provide an idyllic backdrop for the festival.
2. Stages and Performances
With three stages and over 30 artists, attendees can expect a non-stop musical extravaganza. Each stage will feature a mix of intimate performances and grand showcases, ensuring a diverse and engaging experience.
3. VIP and GA+ Seating
For those seeking an elevated experience, reserved main stage seating is available for VIP and GA+ attendees. Enjoy the performances from the best vantage points, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the action.
4. Wine Garden
Experience the best of Napa Valley’s vineyards in the festival’s wine garden. With representation from many top vineyards, you’ll have the chance to sample a variety of exquisite wines.
5. Culinary Experiences
Foodies will delight in the festival’s culinary offerings. From gourmet food trucks to artist-led culinary events, there’s no shortage of delicious options to satisfy your palate.
6. After Parties and Pool Party
The fun doesn’t stop when the main performances end. On-site after parties and a lively pool party will keep the energy high and the good times rolling.
7. Intimate and Boutique Atmosphere
The Black Radio Experience is designed to be an intimate, boutique event with lower capacity. This ensures a more personalized and engaging experience for all attendees.
The Cultural Impact
The Black Radio Experience is not just about music; it’s a celebration of Black culture, history, and artistry. It’s an opportunity to honor the contributions of Black artists and creators while enjoying the best of contemporary jazz and soul music.
The Blue Note Jazz Festival’s Black Radio Experience promises to be an unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and community. Set against the stunning backdrop of Napa Valley, this event offers a unique blend of world-class performances, culinary delights, and exclusive experiences. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or a music lover, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
Join us for a weekend of pure musical bliss and cultural enrichment. See you in Napa Valley!
Conway The Machine just dropped his latest masterpiece, ‘Slant Face Killah’. This album isn’t just another drop in the bucket; it’s a defining moment for Conway, mixing hard-hitting beats with sheer lyrical brilliance. It’s all about that grit and flow, putting him right up there with the legends of hip-hop.
With a lineup that reads like the who’s who of hip-hop—think Raekwon, Swizz Beatz, Joey Bada$$, Method Man, and a whole lot more—this album’s got a sound for everyone. From The Alchemist’s soulful beats to Cool & Dre’s fresh rhythms, and Daringer’s iconic sounds, the production level is off the charts.
Legends like Raekwon and Method Man killing it with their iconic flows, and then you’ve got fresh blood like Joey Bada$$ and Larry June adding a whole new level of energy. When Conway teams up with Tech N9ne and Key Glock, you know it’s gonna be fire. And then there’s this whole other vibe with Jay Worthy and Ab-Soul that gets you thinking.
Check out the full trackless below and press play.
Slant Face Killah Tracklisting
Despertar (Prod Elijah Hooks)
Mutty FEAT Stove God Cooks (Prod Conductor Williams)
Give & Give (Prod Cool & Dre & 808 Ray)
Milano Nights, Pt. 1 (Prod Camouflage Monk)
Kin Express FEAT Larry June (Prod Conductor Williams)
Meth Back! FEAT Method Man, Flee Lord & SK (Prod Daringer)
Ninja Man FEAT Swizz Beatz (Prod Swizz Beatz)
Vertino FEAT Joey Bada$$ (Prod Camouflage Monk)
Ten/Rya Interlude FEAT Key Glock (Prod Don Cannon)
Kosha Dillz is no stranger to controversy, especially when it involves standing up for his community in an age where anti-Semitism is becoming alarmingly normalized. Last year, he took a stand against Kanye West, and this year, he’s addressing Macklemore.
His latest track, “Time For A Conversation,” is a direct response to Macklemore’s song “Hinds Hall.” Using the same format, Dillz presents an opposing viewpoint while emphasizing the need for dialogue—something that seems to be missing. The music video features Macklemore superimposed onto the face of Abby Martin, who appears in a debate on Piers Morgan with former Hamas member Mosab Hassan Yusef. In the debate, Yusef criticizes Hamas propaganda, and Dillz echoes this sentiment, refuting both obvious and subtle claims within a two-minute span.
The song tackles heavy topics such as anti-Semitism, cultural appropriation, genocide, protests against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Ethiopian hostages, Toomaj Salehi (an Iranian rapper facing the death penalty), and Hersh Goldberg Polen, a Chicagoan-Israeli hostage whose injury was exploited in a Hamas propaganda video. Dillz refers to his work as a “response record” rather than a “diss record.”
Despite the contentious nature of his message, Dillz’s approach has resonated widely, garnering over 400K views across social media platforms in just three days. He has received support from notable figures such as Matisyahu, Selma Blair, and Scooter Braun. While acknowledging the Nakba and the call for a free Palestine, Dillz argues that these goals are unattainable under the current conditions, encapsulated in his line, “Free Palestine, but you gon’ free the hostages first.”
The ultimate aim of Dillz’s track is to initiate a conversation. Can it happen? Is it possible to hold two conflicting truths simultaneously?
He concludes “Time For A Conversation” with a powerful call to action: “If you still don’t believe us, visit Nova Exhibition, it’s on Wall Street. Please call me; we can have a discussion. I’ll buy us two cups of coffee. Seven months in, I think we’re all losing our patience. Leave the echo chamber; it’s time for a conversation.”
In a world increasingly divided by echo chambers, Kosha Dillz’s call for open dialogue is both timely and necessary.
In an episode that has been eagerly awaited by fans and followers of hip-hop culture alike, therapist David Webber made a guest appearance on Sway In The Morning to shine a light on Mental Health Awareness Month. However, what truly set this segment apart was his deep-dive analysis into the much-discussed rivalry between two of hip-hop’s greatest forces, Kendrick Lamar and Drake.
David Webber, not just any therapist but one with a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern, offered a fresh and profound perspective on the feud that has dominated headlines and stirred the passions of music lovers worldwide. His expertise allowed listeners to explore the psychological underpinnings of this intense rivalry, offering a glimpse into the complex emotions and strategies at play.
Beyond the Music: Delving into the Psyche
Webber’s approach went far beyond the surface-level beef seen by many. He explored the core values, personal struggles, and psychological tactics employed by both Kendrick Lamar and Drake in their music and public personas. Through his analysis, Webber posed intriguing questions: Can Kendrick Lamar’s family-oriented values endure amidst the glare of Drake’s commercial success? How does Drake manage an identity crisis under intense public scrutiny?
This exploration wasn’t just an academic exercise; it was a captivating look into what makes the feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake so compelling and relatable. Webber’s insights shed light on the broader human experience, touching on themes of ambition, vulnerability, identity, and resilience.
More Than Entertainment: A Lesson in Conflict Navigation
What made Webber’s discussion on Sway In The Morning stand out was how he connected the dots between the high-profile rivalry of Kendrick Lamar and Drake and the everyday conflicts that listeners might face. Drawing from his wealth of experience in mental health counseling, David offered practical advice for navigating personal and professional conflicts, emphasizing growth, understanding, and empathy.
His analysis was not just about dissecting a celebrity feud but about offering a roadmap for individuals dealing with their own battles. Webber’s segment provided valuable lessons on dealing with pressure, facing public scrutiny, and finding one’s authentic self amidst external expectations.
A Must-Watch Episode
David Webber’s appearance on Sway In The Morning was more than just an engaging talk show segment; it was an enlightening discourse that bridged the gap between popular culture and mental health awareness. By using the Kendrick Lamar and Drake rivalry as a lens, Webber invited listeners to reflect on their own lives and the conflicts they face.
For fans of hip-hop, psychology enthusiasts, and anyone interested in personal development, this episode of Sway In The Morning was a must-watch. It was not only an in-depth analysis of two of the most influential artists in modern music but also a session rich with insights applicable to daily life.
Be sure to check out this enlightening discussion on Sway In The Morning, and don’t forget to engage with the content. Like, share your thoughts in the comments, and subscribe to the channel for notifications on the latest videos. This is one conversation you won’t want to miss.
