On a recent episode of the Million Dollaz Worth Of Game podcast, Lizzo reflected on the roots of hip-hop. She highlighted the genre’s struggle for recognition within a music industry long dominated by established players. Her comments offered insight into the challenges faced by Black artists, particularly around sampling—a practice central to hip-hop’s identity and creative innovation. Speaking with hosts Gillie and Wallo, Lizzo explored hip-hop’s complicated relationship with sampling. By borrowing sounds, rhythms, and melodies from existing recordings, artists have built the foundation of the genre. Yet she emphasized that copyright laws have often constrained Black creativity rather than safeguarding it. Recalling Biz Markie’s legal battles over “Alone Again,” Lizzo noted how disputes like his led to albums being pulled from stores. These actions reveal the broader consequences of restrictive sampling rules on Black musicians. Tracing the earliest pioneers of sampling to Black rappers of the 1980s and ’90s, Lizzo highlighted the ingenuity behind the practice. “They were sampling records because they didn’t have access to big studios,” she said. Many repurposed their parents’ vinyl to forge new sounds, often without formal musical training. “They were just outside, just like, ‘OK, this is just what it is.’ And then hip-hop was born, and it was this beautiful thing,” she added. This underscored the genre’s organic and innovative beginnings. Policing Black Creativity Reflecting on contemporary perceptions, Lizzo criticized the framing of sampling as theft. “The theft of it all, putting theft on Black culture, that’s the part that kind of turns me off,” she said. For her, sampling is a legitimate and essential creative practice, embedded in hip-hop’s DNA. Yet, it is often mischaracterized as criminal. She suggested that these restrictions may have racial undertones, functioning as a means to limit Black artistic expression. Fans can also expect Lizzo’s involvement on Cardi B’s forthcoming album, Am I The Drama?, set for September 19. The collaboration hints at further explorations across hip-hop, pop, and R&B. It signals the evolution of her artistry while honoring the foundational roots of the genre.

According to Billboard Canada, The Weeknd has set the record for most performances by a Canadian artist at one of Toronto’s biggest stadiums — the Rogers Centre, which also houses the Toronto Blue Jays. The singer performed four shows on his After Hours Til Dawn Tour at the Rogers Centre, which began on Thursday, August 7. The outlet also reported that he set the record for “most shows at the venue by a male solo artist on the same tour.” This trek would count as The Weeknd’s seventh concert tour. The stadium tour was in support of his fourth, fifth, and sixth studio albums: After Hours (2020), Dawn FM (2022), and Hurry Up Tomorrow (2025). This tour serves as a victory lap for the “Timeless” singer and marks the end of his Weeknd era. View this post on Instagram A post shared by NFR Podcast (@nfrpodcast) Last month, The Weeknd was awarded the ultimate honor from his hometown of Toronto by receiving the Key to the City and a citywide proclamation of “The Weeknd Weekend” from July 26-27.  Complex reported that the City of Toronto recognized” the pop star actor for his accomplishments as a singer-songwriter and producer, his enduring humanitarian efforts, and his dedication to giving back to his city.” During the private ceremony, The Weeknd was presented by Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, who was attended by youth from West Scarborough and The Weeknd’s alma mater, Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute. “I’m deeply honored to receive the Key to the City. It feels good to be home,” The Weeknd said. “Toronto is where I found my voice, and I’m committed to helping the next generation find theirs. That’s why I’m proud to support the Boys & Girls Club of West Scarborough and my former high school, Birchmount Park, providing youth with the means to unlock their full potential.”

Is there anything that Queen Bey can’t do? Whether it’s sparking online debates or shattering Grammy records, Beyoncé has more than proven herself worthy of all her accolades. So it’s no surprise that when Billboard released its “The 75 Best R&B Artists of All Time” list, Beyoncé ranked high among her peers. Landing at No. 4 on the list, the Renaissance singer follows behind icons like Michael Jackson (No. 3), Aretha Franklin (No. 2), and Stevie Wonder (No. 1). The late, legendary, singer and diva, Whitney Houston, rounded out the group at No.5. The criteria for ranking included “vocal prowess, body of work, career longevity, industry achievements, game-changing influence, and enduring generational/cultural impact.” “Billboard’s Greatest Pop Star of the 21st Century also happens to be one of the Best R&B Artists of All Time. In fact, it’s her dedication to her R&B foundation that has helped her become one of music’s most innovative, impactful, and impressive artists,” the outlet wrote. “The 35-time Grammy-winning Houstonian first hit the Billboard charts as the lead vocalist of Destiny’s Child, the girl group in which she honed her now-signature staccato rap-singing, a vocal approach that can be heard in virtually every contemporary R&B song today.” Beyoncé has been named the #4 ‘Best R&B Singer of All-Time’ by Billboard staff. pic.twitter.com/bFcg8myACW — Pop Tingz (@ThePopTingz) June 19, 2025 Other notable artists included in the list include: James Brown (No.6), Prince (No.7), Mariah Carey (No.8), R.Kelly (No.9), and Marvin Gaye (No.10). Last December, Billboard crowned Queen Bey as the greatest pop star of the 21st century. The publication said she’s “the century’s biggest pop star based on her full 25 years of influence, evolution, and impact.” “The reasons why Beyoncé captured the top spot on our list were beyond numerous. Ranging from her 25 years of timeless albums and singles to her incalculable industry impact and influence on other artists, to her peerless raw talents as a singer and performer.” Billboard said. “Few artists this period can match her in any of the most critical basic categories of pop stardom. Commercial success, performance abilities, critical acclaim and accolades, industry influence, iconic cultural moments – and absolutely no one can equal her in all of them,” Billboard continued.

In the fast-moving world of contemporary music, collaborations can shift as quickly as the headlines. The relationship between Ty Dolla $ign and Kanye West now appears strained. This is largely influenced by West’s controversial statements earlier this year. Once a consistent creative alliance, their partnership has become more guarded. This leaves fans uncertain about future joint projects. Ty Dolla $ign and Kanye West have a history of successful collaborations. Their tracks resonated across charts and audiences alike. But recent developments suggest those ties are loosening. In a conversation with Complex, Ty was asked about his connection with Kanye. He offered only, “6 7,” and added, “I don’t really wanna talk about it, next one.” His response signals little inclination toward reconciliation or immediate collaboration. Earlier this month, Ty echoed similar uncertainty regarding his upcoming project, Vultures 3. While acknowledging that a significant portion of the album was completed, he remarked cryptically, “there was a lot of music that was done… But, uh, how should I say this? Uh… 6 7.” Fans are left to interpret whether these comments hint at stalled collaborations or a more permanent rift with Kanye. Ty Dolla $ign and Kanye: Clash and Conviction The tension traces back to February, when Kanye’s widely criticized social media posts sparked public backlash. Ty responded directly, tweeting, “I do not condone ANY form of hate speech towards ANYBODY,” accompanied by fist emojis representing various skin tones. Kanye later addressed his disappointment in a discussion with DJ Akademiks. He asserted, “You letting these n***as put words in your mouth,” emphasizing that disagreements should be handled privately rather than publicly aired. Their evolving dynamic underscores the complexities of navigating professional relationships under constant public scrutiny. As both artists continue on separate creative paths, the influence of these exchanges will likely shape their reputations and future collaborations. This offers a glimpse into how personal convictions and public perception collide in modern hip-hop. Ty Dolla $ign speaks on his current relationship with Ye “6 7. I don’t really wanna talk about it, next one.” (via @ComplexMusic / @jrosethereturn) pic.twitter.com/tt3NoLXqNU — Kurrco (@Kurrco) October 16, 2025

Hip-hop’s landscape thrives on rivalry, and 6ix9ine has once again stepped into controversy—this time reigniting tensions with Young Thug. In his latest release, the polarizing rapper brands Thug a “rat,” referencing a circulating video where the Atlanta artist appears to discuss Peewee Roscoe during an interrogation. The diss arrives as part of 6ix9ine’s renewed streak of public feuds, placing Young Thug squarely in his line of fire. The track, pointedly titled “Fax,” doubles down on aggression and bravado. 6ix9ine delivers sharp, confrontational verses that blend mockery with accusation. “Thought you was a thug, jack, gotta start yappin’,” he raps, a line that strikes directly at Thug’s street credibility. He pushes the insult further with, “Real life slimeball, go get a napkin,” positioning Young Thug as both a hypocrite and a symbol of the blurred lines between image and authenticity in rap culture. Gunna’s name surfaces too—woven into the lyrics as a reminder of loyalty tested and reputations fractured. Through biting commentary and a tone of calculated disdain, 6ix9ine paints a portrait of betrayal within the hip-hop hierarchy. “You care what you did and you can’t take it back,” he declares, turning the track into a pointed moral indictment as much as a musical attack. A History of Tension The rift between the two artists dates back to August, when 6ix9ine took to social media to blast Young Thug over the interrogation clip. He questioned why other rappers—like Lil Baby, Future, and 21 Savage—remained silent, asking bluntly, “Why everybody so quiet?” His outspokenness stands in contrast to the coded subtleties typical of rap beefs, casting him as both provocateur and disruptor in a genre built on reputation. While 6ix9ine embraces his controversial past and even his own “snitch” label, Young Thug has yet to respond publicly to “Fax.” Still, the track’s bold tone and the attention it’s already sparked suggest that this feud is far from finished. In a culture where grudges often become legacy, 6ix9ine seems determined to keep the fire burning.

Chris Brown’s “Breezy Bowl XX” tour continues to make waves, but one viral club moment recently stole the spotlight. A woman who was seen dancing with the Grammy-winning artist spoke up to set the record straight after clips of the encounter spread across social media. In a video she posted, the woman explained that she actually has a history with the singer. “Okay, so the crazy part is I’ve known Chris for years now, but that’s the first time we interacted in that way. I’ve worked for him before. I’ve casted for him before. Just having fun at the club,” she said, adding that Brown was “dancing with everybody” that night. After the clip made its way to LiveBitez, social media users quickly weighed in with differing opinions. Some felt the exchange was all in good fun, while others were more skeptical about the interaction. A few comments suggested that Brown has a particular type, while others criticized how people chase attention rather than meaningful experiences. Meanwhile, Brown is still traveling across the globe on his “Breezy Bowl XX” tour. The concert series kicked off in Amsterdam in June and will wrap up in New Orleans later this month. So far, he has brought his high-energy performances to cities such as Houston, Atlanta, Denver, and Boston, with artists like Summer Walker, Bryson Tiller, and Jhené Aiko joining him on stage. His next stop is Raleigh on Tuesday. Fans in Memphis, however, will have to wait a bit longer to see him. Brown’s October 18 concert was canceled due to ongoing renovations at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. Oak View Group told USA Today, “Chris Brown’s Breezy Bowl XX performance in Memphis on Saturday, October 18 has been canceled… Refunds will be issued through Ticketmaster.com.”

In hip-hop, rivalries are often as defining as the music itself, shaping both careers and public perception. Recently, 50 Cent and Cam’ron solidified their alliance while reigniting long-standing disputes with Dame Dash and Jim Jones, demonstrating how old tensions continue to reverberate through the culture. Last weekend, Miami’s LIV Nightclub hosted a high-energy showcase as 50 Cent joined Cam’ron on stage. Fans captured the electric atmosphere as the two rappers traded verses, blending nostalgia with current relevance. Against the backdrop of simmering conflicts with former collaborators Dash and Jones, the performance carried a charged subtext, turning the night into more than just a concert—it was a statement. Tensions with Dame Dash resurfaced when 50 Cent announced plans for a premium television series inspired by the 2002 film Paid in Full. Cam’ron, integral to the original project, partnered on the venture. Dash challenged 50 Cent’s claims to the rights and later suggested a truce, which was quickly rebuffed. “I agree with Dame [100] percent; it’s better to work together,” 50 Cent admitted. “But then CAM chimed in with a resounding ‘f*ck Dame,’ highlighting just how deep the divisions run.” Cam’ron’s Perspective on Long-Standing Tensions The feud with Jim Jones adds another layer to the story. On the Roc Solid podcast, Cam’ron reflected on 15 years of unresolved disputes. “The reunions and arguments—it’s been 15 years,” he said. “Our time together as a group lasted only seven years, yet the disputes have extended far beyond that.” He also recalled the diss tracks exchanged over the years. “He released a song titled ‘Frienemies’ back in 2009; that’s 17 years of dissing. I don’t focus on it anymore, though; my attention is on more positive things.” The entangled histories of 50 Cent, Cam’ron, Dame Dash, and Jim Jones underscore how alliances and rivalries define hip-hop’s narrative. Music, ego, and legacy intertwine, keeping audiences captivated as these artists navigate collaboration, competition, and personal stakes. As the story continues to unfold, the possibility of future partnerships—or renewed confrontations—remains a compelling lens through which to view the genre. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 2Cool2Blog (@2cool2bl0g)

On November 8, Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater will host one of the year’s most anticipated music events. Sleepy Brown, Killer Mike, and JID are set to perform a tribute to Outkast as the Atlanta duo is officially inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Fans and artists have long called the honor overdue, recognizing Outkast’s groundbreaking influence on Southern hip-hop. Their enduring mark on global music culture makes this tribute significant. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame confirmed the lineup on Instagram. They revealed that the three artists will celebrate André 3000 and Big Boi’s contributions to music and storytelling. For Sleepy Brown and Killer Mike, the performance carries deep roots. Both artists are longtime members of the Dungeon Family, the Atlanta collective that shaped the city’s hip-hop identity. JID, one of the most acclaimed voices in modern rap, represents a new generation inspired by Outkast’s innovation. His participation adds a fresh layer to the tribute, connecting past and present through Atlanta’s creative legacy. JID’s admiration for Outkast goes beyond respect. The rapper recently hinted at collaborating with André 3000, sparking speculation about a potential project. This could bridge eras of Atlanta hip-hop. While the details remain unconfirmed, the idea alone underscores Outkast’s lasting artistic impact. Even decades after their rise, their influence continues to inspire artists. They are redefining sound and style today. Killer Mike Reflects on Rivalry with Travis Scott In a recent conversation with Shannon Sharpe, Killer Mike opened up about his friendly rivalry with Travis Scott, mixing humor with competitive pride. “He brought some light bars. It was cute, you know? I appreciated it,” Mike said. Though he respects Scott and often takes his kids to his concerts, he made clear that his confidence as an MC remains unshaken. “Aye, man, I’m here to win. If you a Travis Scott disparaging me, I don’t give a damn. I wake up every day and kiss my Grammys. What you gon’ do? Nobody can outrap me,” he said. His words capture the spirit of hip-hop at its core—where competition fuels creativity, and legacy is built through mastery and self-belief. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (@rockhall)

As Hispanic Heritage Month shines a spotlight on Latin voices shaping culture today, rising star Honey Bxby stands out as one of the most authentic and fearless. Blending R&B, soul, and Latin rhythm, the New Jersey native channels her heritage into every note — turning personal stories into universal anthems. In an exclusive conversation with HOT 97, Honey Bxby opens up about how her upbringing influences her sound, the importance of representation in music, and what it truly means to celebrate her roots while paving her own lane in the industry. How does your Hispanic heritage influence your sound and artistry?My heritage shows up in everything I do. I grew up surrounded by so much energy and that naturally finds its way into my music. Whether it’s the way I sing certain melodies or the attitude I bring to a record, that influence is always in there. It’s part of my DNA, so even when I’m not thinking about it, it comes through. Are there any traditions or cultural values from your background that shape the way you create or perform?Family and community are huge in my culture, and that plays a big part in how I move. Everything I do isn’t just for me, it’s for my family. I wanna be able to give them the world one day so it makes me wanna work harder. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Honey Bxby (@itshoneybxby) What does Hispanic Heritage Month personally mean to you?It’s a reminder to celebrate who we are. For me, it’s about honoring my roots and showing love to the people who made it possible for artists like me to have a voice. How do you see Latin culture shaping the future of music right now?Latin culture is everywhere in music right now. Like, Bad Bunny is literally doing the Super Bowl! it’s influencing every genre. Is there a song in your catalog that feels the most personal to you? Why?“Broken Mirrors” feels really personal to me. It came from a real place and how it feels dealing with my own personal struggles in silence. It’s the first time I opened up like that on a record that has been released. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Honey Bxby (@itshoneybxby) Do you think there’s enough representation of Afro-Latin or diverse Latin identities in mainstream media?I think we’re making progress, as I said before a Latin artist, one of the biggest artist in the world is doing the Super Bowl! That says so much in itself. What message do you hope young Hispanic fans take away from seeing you succeed?That they can do anything and I want them to see that you don’t have to change who you are to shine. Who you are is your power. If your culture had a “sound,” what would it be?It would sound like love, rhythm, and attitude all mixed together. How do you use your platform to celebrate your roots?I try to keep my culture present in everything from how I speak, to the visuals I create, to the music itself. I love showing pride in my background in ways that feel natural to me, even if it’s through little details. One word to describe how you feel during Hispanic Heritage Month? Proud. What’s next for Honey Bxby?More music, more stories, more growth. I’m in a space where I want to push myself creatively and keep giving people the real me. I’ve got a lot to say, & I’m ready for the world to hear it. As Honey Bxby continues to carve her own space in music, she stands as a reminder of how culture, confidence, and creativity can coexist beautifully. Her journey reflects the power of embracing one’s roots while pushing boundaries — a message that resonates deeply during Hispanic Heritage Month and beyond. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Honey Bxby (@itshoneybxby)

Rod Wave has formally challenged Grizzly Touring, claiming the company is attempting to force him into renegotiating their partnership after a series of canceled performances. The dispute revolves around his “Last Lap” tour, originally slated for late last year but now postponed into 2025. Grizzly Touring maintains that contractual obligations require Rod to continue working with them, despite mounting tensions from the delays. In a counter-filing on October 12, Rod Wave’s legal team asserted that Grizzly management applied undue pressure for him to fulfill tour obligations. Rod cited logistical hurdles, production setbacks, and routing conflicts. These made the original tour plan untenable. He is now petitioning the courts to allow him to self-promote his upcoming “The Redemption Experience” tour. It is tied to a new album, and he seeks to have his contract with Grizzly declared void. James Sammataro, Rod’s attorney, described the demand to perform under the existing contract as akin to “indentured servitude.” Sammataro added that Rod no longer trusts Grizzly to manage his music. He is unwilling to participate in any further promotional work with the company. Grizzly Touring’s Response Grizzly Touring, in turn, contends that Rod Wave’s canceled performances constitute a breach of contract. The company is seeking $27 million in reimbursements for advance payments. Grizzly argues that Rod’s claims—labeling its booking decisions as “unilateral and onerous”—do not exempt him from financial responsibility. Their countersuit notes that only 12 of the originally scheduled 35 shows occurred as planned. Additionally, many were rescheduled without Rod’s prior knowledge. Rod Wave is pursuing compensation not just for canceled dates but also for reputational harm caused by the disruptions. As both sides dig in, the outcome of this dispute could significantly influence his upcoming tours. It may also set broader precedents for how promoters engage with high-profile artists. The clash between Rod Wave and Grizzly Touring highlights the delicate balance between artist independence and contractual obligation in the music industry. Its resolution may reshape touring practices. It could also redefine expectations for the relationships between performers and promoters across the broader entertainment landscape.