Busta Rhymes is receiving his long-overdue flowers The hip-hop legend will be honored with the 2,818th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The ceremony is slated for Friday, August 1, at 11:30 am PT at 6201 Hollywood Boulevard in front of East Town. Rhymes will be honored with his star in the category of Recording. Guest speakers for the ceremony include Chris Rock, LL Cool J, Chuck D., and Big Boy. “The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce will be adding Busta Rhymes, one of Hip-Hop’s most enduring and electrifying voices, as a new member of Hollywood’s iconic sidewalk, “ said Ana Martinez, Producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. ”His talent and influence are undeniable. His star on the Walk of Fame will stand as a testament to his lasting impact on hip-hop music and how important it is to the American culture,” added Martinez.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ana Martinez (@stargirl_stuff) Regarded as one of the best rappers of all-time, Busta Rhymes has earned 12 GRAMMY® nominations and sold over 60 million records certified gold and platinum songs in his catalog. He has had eight songs reach the Top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. These include hits like “Woo Hah!! Got You All In Check”, “Dangerous”, “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Can See”, “What’s It Gonna Be?!”, “Pass the Courvoisier, Part II”, “I Know What You Want”, and “Touch It”.  Also, Busta Rhymes has released several classic albums such as The Coming, When Disaster Strikes, and Extinction Level Event, just to name a few. He has sold more than 20 million albums worldwide, landing seven Top 10 debuts on the Billboard 200.

Don Toliver has some new music coming. Taking to Instagram, the Houston native shares his big news with his followers with a concise message. “ALBUM INCOMING 2025 ,” his post read. He also shared that he was the featured artist on the new FAULT Magazine cover story.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by DON TOLIVER (@dontoliver) During the interview, Toliver revealed that he is looking forward to showing his “creative identity” with the new project. “The part I’m most excited to reveal is my next album, and really, just my future in general,” Toliver said. “It’s going to be a fun time, and I’m excited for it all.” With all the success that he’s experienced, Toliver said that he feels no pressure with the upcoming project. No, my current run of hits doesn’t make me feel pressured,” he responded. “And I don’t find it hard to keep experimenting or finding new winning formulas.” The forthcoming, untitled album follows his 2024 album Hardstone Psycho, and a collaborative project, Cactus Jack’s Jackboys 2, with Travis Scott. Since his debut in 2018 no his mixtape Donny Womack and a feature on Travis Scott’s song “Can’t Say” from the Astroworld album, Toliver has been a prolific artist. He’s dropped singles such as “No Idea,” “After Party,” and “Lemonade” (with Internet Money and Gunna featuring Nav), which have charted on the Billboard Hot 100. Toliver also released several other albums, including Heaven or Hell (2020), Life of a Don (2021), and Love Sick (2023).

Clipse and Travis Scott’s Jackboys took over the hip-hop scene last weekend, while established and emerging artists such as Awich, Abrina, Dorrough, and Fordo weathered the storm. As the “Song of the Summer” race heats up, more of hip hop’s biggest stars prepare to join the battle royal. Summer 2025 is quickly becoming the season of seasoned artists. The legends and established acts continually prove how to create impactful music, while new artists struggle to maintain their relevance or find their unique sound. However, there are numerous new artists establishing their cult followings with unique new music. As the debates begin, blockbuster tours continue, and anticipated albums arrive, there’s still a lot of amazing new music that has gone overlooked this week. From Awich’s continued takeover to Tay Money and Rob 49’s surprise collab to Fordo doubling up, here’s all the new music you might have missed this week. Awich Proves Her Skills With FERG & Lupe Fiasco In “Wax On Wax” The rising female rhymeslayer sharpens her skills against credible master craftsmen such as the Trap Lord and Fiasco. The song is a sensual, confident anthem blending Japanese and English lyrics to explore empowerment through intimacy. She asserts control in both romantic and artistic expression. Abrina & DCMBR Show Us That “Good Love Forever” Inspired by San Diego’s Sunset Cliffs, a place in her hometown for clarity, reflection, and personal growth, the “Actin Up” hitmaker transforms her favorite escape into a bold, musical state of mind. The collaboration delivers undeniable chemistry and sensual energy. It re-enters the singer and her amazing talent into today’s music, while reuniting her with loyal fans who have been supporting her through all the ups and downs. Tay Money & Rob49 On The Search For A “Snow Bunny” More “Baddie Music” from the popular Dallas rap star. Linking with Rob for the infectious new party anthem, Big Tay brands herself the baddest with obligations of being dripped with the finer things and nothing less. The single promises an exciting new album from the “Assignment” hitmaker later this year. Dorrough Music Takes Us On A Wild Night Through “Uptown” The Legendary Dallas rapper blends swagger and Southern charm, contrasting past struggle with hard-earned rewards. It’s not just a party track—it’s a reflection of perseverance, elevated living, and the triumph of Southern rap resilience. Fordo Makes Moves To The Top Like “Nobody’s Watching” From his debut album, 2001, the Milwaukee rap star addresses public appearances and how the world perceives you. It is an anthem for anyone ready to drop the masks and be unapologetically themselves. Young Dro & K Carbon On “I Go” Bonding the past with the present in a bold anthem of confidence, hustle, and Southern bravado. Over a hard-hitting beat, both artists trade verses packed with swagger, flexing street credibility and lyrical dominance. The track celebrates relentless ambition, fast living, and unshakable self-assurance in the face of doubt. Kaash Paige Got “2BadBitches” The bona fide hit takes fans into Kaash Paige’s life after-dark. Surrounded by a crew of alluring women, the Dallas recording artist embraces her “toxic alter ego” in full form. It marks her return with a big bounce back to the top of music on the way. Da’Ville Is Ready For “Sunshine Days” Making a triumphant return after over a decade’s absence, the Reggae superstar picks up where he left off with the high-energy single. “This is the most personal and spiritual chapter of my journey,” he said. “Sunshine Days is about gratitude, love, and walking through life with your head up. The world needs that energy right now, and I’m here to give it.” Da Deputy & Big A Show Off Their Wheelpower The Fort Worth, Texas rapper takes us on a ride in his vibrant, quick tape that connects his love for car culture with his love for hip-hop. The tricked-out wordplay blends perfectly with Big A’s bass-driven production. It’s a go-to soundtrack for those long rides or meet-ups.

Jeezy made it clear that “everything he does” is for his “hood” nearly 20 years ago with his debut album, Let’s Get It: Thug Motivation 101. So, to celebrate its 20th anniversary, the rapper is bringing those words to fruition with a “Community Day” near his hometown of Atlanta, Georgia. According to TMZ, the rapper is collaborating with “one of the USA’s largest community development organizations,” Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC). The event is scheduled to take place at Impact Church on Saturday (July 26) in East Point, Georgia (a suburb of Atlanta), and is free and open to the community. Along with giving out almost 25,000 pounds of food, attendees will also be able to receive free health screenings. There will also be a free giveaway of back-to-school supplies for almost 500 children. On July 26, 2005, Jeezy dropped his debut album, Let’s Get It: Thug Motivation 101. While the project was his commercial debut, the rapper had dropped two albums prior — Thuggin’ Under The Influence (T.U.I.) in 2001Come Shop Wit Me 2003. Source: Google.com The album would go on to spawn four singles: “And Then What” featuring Mannie Fresh, “Soul Survivor” featuring Akon, “Go Crazy”, and “My Hood.” Upon its release, the project debuted at No.2 on the Billboard 200, selling nearly 172,000 copies in the first week. Per the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), the album has been certified double platinum. Jeezy told the Associated Press in an interview back in June that he believes the album still resonates with fans today because “the music and the words” had “come from a real place.” He added, “I wasn’t trying to entertain — I was trying to reach.” The rapper also noted that rap was his way “out” of his environment, and he was determined to make his dream a reality. “If you’re doing something to change your life and you know that the only other avenues are prison or death, you’re just like, ‘This gotta work.”

Justin Bieber returns to music with his seventh studio album, SWAG, with guest appearances ranging from Sexxy Red and Gunna to Druski and Marvin Winans. Similarly, with 2014’s Journals, throughout the 21-track album, the Canadian pop singer once again ventures into R&B, paired with smooth vocals and soulful melodies. With SWAG, Justin Bieber pulls back the curtain, showcasing his vulnerabilities as he juggles fame, family, and fatherhood. Released on Friday (July 11), the project comes somewhat as a surprise, given that Bieber never did an official rollout. However, recently, billboards featuring the album’s cover appeared around Los Angeles. Despite only releasing the project today, the singer’s track, “Daisies,” is currently sitting at 1,000,000 million views on YouTube. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Justin Bieber (@lilbieber) The singer’s last project, Justice, was released on March 21. It features appearances from Khalid, Chance the Rapper, Daniel Caesar, Giveon, and Burna Boy. Upon release, Justice debuted atop the Billboard 200 charts. The album was supported by six singles, including “Peaches,” giving the singer his seventh No.1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Bursting on the scene in the early 2010s, Justin Bieber’s impact on pop music is unmatched. Discovered by both Scooter Braun and Usher, his debut EP, My World (2009), established him as a teen idol. Bieber is one of the most successful pop acts of all time, with over 150 million albums sold globally and five certified diamond certifications from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Check out the complete tracklist below: ALL I CAN TAKE DAISIES YUKON GO BABY THINGS YOU DO BUTTERFLIES WAY IT IS FIRST PLACE SOULFUL (featuring Druski) WALKING AWAY GLORY VOICE MEMO DEVOTION (featuring Dijon) DADZ LOVE (featuring Lil B) THERAPY SESSION SWEET SPOT (featuring Sexxy Red) STANDING ON BUSINESS (featuring Druski) 405 SWAG (featuring Cash Cobain & Eddie Benjamin) ZUMA HOUSE TOO LONG FORGIVENESS (performed by Marvin Winans)

Clipse believe that Tyler, the Creator, is their biggest fan. Speaking with Ebro Darden about merch in support of their highly anticipated album, Let God Sort Em Out, in the Complex Shop, they revealed that Tyler holds the top spot as their biggest fan. “As a fan of the discography, Tyler is the number one Clipster,” Pusha T said. “He can tell me things about albums and the time periods and everything, from production to raps, when it comes to Clipse albums.” Tyler and the rest of Clipse nation can rejoice on July 11 when the album drops, which is solely produced by Pharrell Williams. .@tylerthecreator is the number 1 Clipster. We’re a close second. Don’t miss the livestream on Thursday, July 10 at 8pm PT / 11pm ET on Apple Music. https://t.co/KoxiFMSZhQ pic.twitter.com/Z6ZOafIsKr — Apple Music (@AppleMusic) July 8, 2025 Speaking on Popcast,  the dynamic duo shared their thoughts on the absence of Chad Hugo, co-founder of the iconic production duo the Neptunes. “Absolutely miss Chad. As far as you know, being on the album,” No Malice said. “But I’ll see Chad in the airport, in the street, at Buffalo Wild Wings, you know, in VA. Whatever they got going on, just hope for the best for that […] Whenever we see each other, it’s always still love. Always.” “For me, no, you know, no. Everybody knows my favorite album is  Hell Hath No Fury Pharrell did that alone. That’s it […] Chad’s my guy. I love Chad. Pharrell’s my guy, love Chad, too. We’re brothers, we came up together,” Pusha explained. “But, you know, when you say missing in the music, there is no missing in the music when it comes to the Clipse. And if it’s just P, it don’t matter—we find what we find.” In April 2024, Williams and Hugo were involved in a legal dispute over the group’s name, which HO797 previously reported.

Scott Storch recently had some harsh words for The Roots. The super producer claimed the legendary group were “haters” after he began working with Dr. Dre. Storch was a member of The Roots band from 1993 to 1995 and contributed to several albums after his departure Appearing on Patrick Bet-David’s podcast, he took aim the the Philadelphia rap legends, “I started in The Roots and did a lot of the stuff for them, very underappreciated. I was the guy who, again, came up with a lot of the nucleus of what that shit was,” Storch recalled. “And I left the group and was told that I was, like, the Pete Best of The Roots. You know, Pete Best is the guy that quit The Beatles.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Art Of Dialogue (@theartofdialogue)  “Even my girlfriend broke up with me and said, ‘Oh, you f**ked up’ and this and that. I was like, ‘No, I didn’t. I see bigger.’ I’m not gonna go on the road with a bunch of guys that don’t appreciate me and be like, ‘That’s the white guy who plays keys in The Roots.’ I’m the fucking guy coming up with all the sh*t,” he continued. “In fact, they called me the white devil.” Storch also shared he tried to help DMX kick his drug habit while he struggled with his own demons. It was like the blind leading the blind. I’m a coke addict and he’s a crack addict, and I’m trying to help him. I’m like, ‘[Snorts coke] you really need to get clean, man.’ What the fuck? I’m like, ‘You need to go to rehab.’ “So I convinced him to avoid a jail sentence for a charge he had or whatever. He went to rehab and was getting his shit together at a place where I had gone, but it didn’t really work for me. I had him there, I really did care about him, I wanted him off that shit. That was a faster suicide than I was even on.”

Jeezy said his grandmother would always tell him, “Don’t ask anybody for anything without giving them something first.”  This wisdom helped to launch his iconic rap career. In a recent interview with Billboard, Jeezy is talking about the 20th  anniversary of his classic album Let’s Get It: Thug Motivation 101, which was released on July 26th, 2005. During the process, he developed polyps in his throat and required surgery. With no insurance, he had to pay out of a brown paper bag of cash and took months to recover. “It humbled me and I remember not having insurance at the time,” he recalls to Billboard with a laugh. “Imagine that, I had insurance on my Ferrari and not [medical] insurance!” After all his hard work, the album leaked before its official release. Instead of looking at it as a setback, Jeezy saw it as a blessing in disguise “I knew that was designed to hurt me,” Jeezy explained. “That took the pressure off, because the world had heard the music. That was the promo.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by @jeezy When Let’s Get It: Thug Motivation 101 finally dropped, the LP peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, selling 172,000 units in the first week. Standout tracks include “And Then What” featuring Mannie Fresh, “Soul Survivor” featuring Akon, “Go Crazy” and “My Hood.” Looking back, he’s amazed that 20 years have passed by so fast. “If there was nothing else in the world, no book or other mixtapes and albums to represent me, I think people can see who I am and my character, my moral compass, my integrity and everything I’m about in that one body of work,” he reflects. “That’s why I call it ‘the blueprint.’ That’s him, Jay ‘Jeezy’ Jenkins.”

Ebro Darden is known for making bold statements about Hip-Hop, a fact that is well-documented.In the latest episode of Ebro in the Morning, the media personality recognized the contributions of legendary recording artist Nas in an unexpected hot take, stating that Nas has done more for Hip-Hop than any other rapper in history. Ebro’s mentions of Nas are related to the rapper’s company, Mass Appeal, which is preparing to release the highly anticipated sequel to Ghostface Killah’s album, Supreme Clientele 2. “New Ghostface,” said Ebro, following Peter Rosenberg’s announcement of the sequel album. “Shout out to Mass Appeal.” Ebro says Nas has done more for Hip Hop than any other rapper in history pic.twitter.com/ZmpDVpW172 — Navjosh (@Navjosh) June 25, 2025 Ebro’s hot take came after co-hosts Laura Styles and Peter Rosenberg acknowledged the excellent work being done at Mass Appeal right now. Abruptly, he says, “Hot take: Nas has done more for hip hop than any rapper in history.” Rosenberg followed Ebro’s claim, welcoming the debate. “That’s in the convo, right there,” Rosenberg replies. Ebro elaborated further, stating: “He has given back more to hip-hop than any rapper in history.” Nas, arguably one of the greatest lyricists of all time, created a classic catalog of timeless hits throughout the 90s and 2000s, including “If I Ruled The World,” “Street Dreams,” and “One Mic.” By the 2010s, he flipped the script from mic to millions, investing early in tech giants like Coinbase and Ring through QueensBridge Ventures. From bars to boardrooms, he turned hip-hop clout into Silicon Valley cash, building a legacy off equity and vision. In 2013, Nas joined Mass Appeal as investor and creative force, helping relaunch the former hip-hop mag into a multimedia brand. He expanded its reach with a record label and documentaries like Rapture, turning it into a platform that bridges hip-hop roots with bold, future-focused storytelling. Ghostface Killah’s upcoming sequel is a part of a highly publicized music series, titled “Legends Has It.” The Mass Appeal series will drop seven albums in 2025 from icons such as DJ Premier, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, De La Soul, Big L, Mobb Deep, and Nas himself. Honoring hip-hop’s roots and legends, the series celebrates New York’s legacy while spotlighting rap’s most influential voices and timeless impact. Ebro’s Nas claim would receive attention on social media, ranging from fans agreeing with the statement to disagreeing regarding other artists and their contributions. An X user tweeted, “True in the context of championing hiphop globally too. As a rapper, yes, but even more so as an entrepreneur.” Ebro’s comment sparks an ongoing debate that seems never-ending.

Jim Jones is once again talking about Nas. Appearing on the latest episode of Nightcap, co-hosted by NFL legends Shannon Sharpe and Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, the former Dipset members had some more words to share about Nas. “Were you smoking when you said you were better than Nas?” Sharpe asked, During the heated exchange, Jones acknowledged that the Queensbridge legend’s skills but downplayed the reach of his influence. “Nas was nice when I was in high school. Nas was dope. We appreciate him. He had a little bit of a run,” Jones explained. “But Nas always came up second to [Jay-Z] and DMX and all these other people. He never had that type of influence on us, except for his first album.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nightcap (@nightcapshow_) “I used to want to dress like Nas… He had one of the illest albums of all time. I’m a real fan of Nas. But he kind of lost me after the movie Belly and s**t like that,” Jones continued. Sharpe strongly disagreed with Jones’ assessment of Nas’ accomplishments. “You can’t eff with Nas lyrically,” Sharpe told Jones. “I know you on that good stuff, but you not seeing Nas. Let’s be real.” Jones then went on to challenge Nas to meet him in the booth. “Let Nas stick up for himself and meet me in the booth or something if he wants to do something historical,” Jones challenged “I would run circles around Nas rapping right now, bro. Right now, 2025, I’m in the game still rapping at a high capacity,” Jones responded. “If Nas wants the smoke, come in the booth.” “I’m not mad, it’s about the sportsmanship of the game,” he continued.  I’m a very aggressive person. I seem to get misconstrued when I’m talking my sh*t. I’m just talking my sh*t, you heard?” Jones added: “Let me talk my sh*t, ’cause I am on the field. If anybody got a problem with that, they can meet me on the field. That is the booth. Anybody from that era.” This isn’t the first time that Jones has taken shots at Nas. As HOT97 previously reported, appearing on Fat Joe and Jadakiss’ podcast, Joe and Jada, Joey Crack spoke about a viral clip where a 22-year-old compared Capo and Nas, suggesting Jones has more influence than the Queensbridge legend. “I was a superior Nas fan, but when you get into the game, you realize your idols become rivals,” Jones said. “Not to take anything away from that. I developed my own style and my own lane that these kids started to gravitate towards, the same way I gravitated towards Nas when I was younger.”