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Word is Bond – Live Radio Show at NYC Stylz

Posted on August 10, 2021 by Clodagh Leon

Last week, I did an in-store appearance at NYC Stylz and spun tunes for the customers and staff all afternoon. I had a blast spinning tunes from a variety of different genres and eras.

If you are a loyal listener to the show, this one will sound a bit different. It’s not all underground boom-bap this time out. It’s more of what I like to do when I am mixing for a wedding or party. I let the vibe of the day take hold and never know exactly what I am going to play. As such, you will hear some rock, reggae, funk, and pop too.

I hope you enjoy this episode with a slightly different vibe. I certainly enjoyed mixing it up live and thought it was worth sharing with all of you who weren’t able to make it out to the store on Tuesday.

NYC Stylz is located at 394 Richmond St in London, Ontario, Canada. They are the longest running urban clothing store in the city and even have their own designer brand, Empressario. Go cop some nice gear and support local.

Word is Bond!

Chase March & Unlearn – Word is Bond Theme
Gang Starr – Mass Appeal
Hip Club Groove – Shootin’ the Gift
Beneficience & Confidence ft Keith Murray – Illest Mic Pros
DMX ft Alicia Keys – Hold Me Down
Mobb Deep & MiLKCRATE – Win or Lose
Delegation – Oh Honey
Nena – 99 Luftballons
112 ft The Notorious B.I.G. – Only You
Clipse – Grindin
Skull Snaps – It’s a New Day
Idris Muhammad – Crab Apple
James Brown – Papa Don’t Take No Mess
Biz Markie – Nobody Beats the Biz
The Nicest – No Swag
The Beatles – Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da
The Mamas & The Papas – California Dreaming
De La Soul – Saturdays
Coolio – 1-2-3-4 (Sumpn’ New)
Beastie Boys – Ch-Check-It-Out
Organized Rhyme – Check the O.R
Dream Warriors – My Definition of a Boombastic Jazz Style
Nas – The World is Yours
Jeru the Damaja – One Day
Bravenous ft Dragon Fli Empire – Won’t Stop
Evidence – Pardon Me
Nord1kone, El Da Sensei, & DJ M-Rok – Ghost Yard
Kardinal Offishall – Bakardi Slang
Busta Rhymes – Break Ya Neck
Goodie Mob – Cell Therapy
Ill Al Skratch – Where My Homiez?
Scarface – On My Block
Sister Nancy – Bam Bam
Collie Buddz – Good Life
Blondie – One Way Or Another
Fu-Schnickens – Ring the Alarm
Rascalz – Really Livin
Beatnuts – Props Over Here

Original Air Date – Thursday August 5, 2021

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If you liked this episode, check out last week’s episode.

Word is Bond Rap Radio – Ngajuana Throwback

Sa-Roc – “The Sharecropper’s Daughter” (Album Review)

Posted on October 2, 2020 by EDITORIAL FEATURES

Sa-Roc is a 38 year old MC from Washington D.C. who’s dropped a total of 6 albums a rarities compilation, 2 EPs & 2 mixtapes throughout the the first half of the previous decade before signing to Rhymesayers Entertainment in 2015. But after several years of singles, we’re finally being treated to her debut on the label & her 7th full-length album overall.

The opener “EmergencE” tells her haters to look at her now over a quasi-jazzy instrumental from longtime collaborator Sol Messiah whereas the next track “Gold Leaf” flexes her prowess over a boom bap beat with a well-incorporated flute. The song “Rocwell America” with Styles P sees the 2 tackling the corruption in our country over a beat with a somewhat mystical vibe to it while the track “Something Real” talks about wanting to get to know her partner over a sample of Alicia Keys’ “You Don’t Know My Name”.

The song “Hand of God” talks about proving one’s authenticity over a boom bap beat with an old school video game feel to it while the song “Deliverance” talks about elevating in a stress-free zone over a nocturnal instrumental from Evidence. The song “Lay It Down” talks about counting your blessings over an operatic beat while the title track over a funky, psychedelic beat. “The Black Renaissance” with Black Thought is a phenomenal ode to the Black Lives Matter movement with a piano-inflicted beat while the song “r(E)volution” talks about nothing’s gonna change but them over some popping drums & what sounds like a bass guitar.

The track “Goddess Gang” talks about being royalty over some horns & plinky keys while the song “Forever” talks about being a star over an slow beat. The track “40 & a Mule” comes through on the battle bar tip over a beat with a nice, faint background vocalist while the song “Dark Horse” talks about how they can’t deny her strength anymore over a thumping instrumental. The album finishes with “Grounded”, where Sa-Roc talks about being right about herself over a J Dilla inspired boom bap instrumental.

To me, this is Sa-Roc’s magnum opus & I think it further solidified her as one of the illest female spitters hip hop has to offer currently. The production is a lot more refined in comparison to her previous efforts & the listener gets a great look into her upbringings.

Score: 8/10

Usher Claims His Son Stole His Phone To DM PinkPantheress

Posted on April 25, 2024April 25, 2024 by EDITORIAL FEATURES

Usher has a reputation for being a smooth talker. He’s built an entire career on it, from his music to his effortless dance moves onstage. The R&B icon learned that he isn’t the only one in the family who has game, however. He took to Instagram on April 24 to reveal that his son, Naviyd, snatched his phone so that he could slide in the DMs of his current favorite artist: PinkPantheress. The revelation would have been funny on its own, but Usher decided to document the entire incident with screenshots and quotes.

Usher recounted his confusion upon realizing he had a DM interaction with someone he didn’t know. “So, a week or so ago my son, Naviyd, stole my phone so he could dm his favorite artist @pinkpantheress,” he wrote. “Now I just so happened to check my DMs earlier this past week and saw a message exchange from someone with a Powerpuff girl as their profile pic. So I’m like the hell is this.” The R&B singer then realized what had happened when he clicked on the pic. “I open it and I’m like oh this boy done DMd this girl from my damn phone,” he added.

You can scroll through Naviyd’s entire DM conversation below. The highlight is undoubtedly the message where Naviyd, 15, claims to have exposed his dad to Pantheress’ music. “I put him onto masterpieces,” he wrote with a salute emoji.

Usher’s Son Eventually Met PinkPantheress

Usher reached out to PinkPantheress to apologize, but the pop star took it in stride. “Don’t apologize,” she responded. “Happy to have this interaction. I’d love to host y’all at the next show.” Usher pretended that he was going to prevent his son from going to the show “because he did the MOST just to connect with her on my account,” but he relented. Naviyd even got a chance to meet PinkPantheress and take photos with her backstage. The DM long shot worked out!

Usher and PinkPantheress have not officially collaborated on a song, but they’ve been the recipient of several viral mashups on TikTok. The most popular mashup combines Usher’s “Burn” with Pantheress’ single “Just for Me.” Usher has also praised the current generation of R&B stars. “I’m very happy that there’s a new installation of R&B artists who care to be authentic to what they are creating, inspired by artists of the past,” he told Billboard. “Everybody who has ever said to me that R&B is dead sounds crazy.”

Boosie Badazz Apologies To LSU Player After Racially-Charged Comments

Posted on April 5, 2024April 5, 2024 by EDITORIAL FEATURES

Boosie Badazz likes to speak his mind. The rapper will give his opinion no matter the topic or how much flack he will get for it online. His unapologetic nature is part of what makes him such an entertaining hip-hop presence, but it’s also what makes the few times he actually does apologize feel sincere. One such apology came on April 4, when Boosie took to Instagram to address the racially charged comments he made towards white LSU athlete Hailey Van Lith.

Firstly, context. Boosie criticized Van Lith in a since-deleted X post following an LSU loss. The rapper accused Van Lith of being scared to compete against Iowa superstar Caitlin Clark. “Our white girl was scared to death of Clark,” he wrote. “Why was she guarding her in the first place? We gotta do some serious recruiting next year.” Boosie would have caught heat for singling Van Lith out regardless, but it was the racial component that bothered fans. Blaming one player for a team loss is a tough look, and Boosie relented.

Boosie Badazz Regrets Criticizing Hailey Van Lith

The rapper posted an Instagram video from inside his car, where he directly addressed Van Lith. He blamed his comments on the passion he felt for the game, and acknowledged that he was out of line in making them. “Hey, I want to apologize to Hailey Van Lith,” Boosie stated. “That’s my bad. I got in my feelings. I really wanted y’all to win, man.” Furthermore, he extended the apology to LSU, and clarified that it came from a place of support. “I apologize to you and to LSU,” he added. “I mean, that’s all I can say, I got in my feelings. Really wanted y’all to beat Iowa.”

Boosie’s LSU fandom is infamous among his fans. When the LSU women’s basketball team won their first ever NCAA tournament championship in 2023, the rapper celebrated by cutting the nets to the baskets in his backyard. “Congratulations from all of us,” he wrote in the caption to his Instagram post. Boosie’s antics went semi-viral, with many clowning the rapper for acting like a member of the team. Regardless of whether his antics were silly or not, fans can’t deny the passion he has for his college sports team.

[Via]

Wendell Pierce Net Worth 2024: What Is “The Wire” Actor Worth?

Posted on April 4, 2024April 4, 2024 by EDITORIAL FEATURES

Wendell Pierce, acclaimed for his versatile performances across stage and screen, has carved a niche in Hollywood with his compelling portrayals. Best known for his role as Detective William “Bunk” Moreland in the groundbreaking series The Wire, Pierce’s career spans decades, encompassing a diverse range of characters. As of 2024, Celebrity Net Worth estimates his fortune at a substantial $8 million, reflective of his prolific and impactful contributions to the entertainment industry.

The Foundational Years

NEW YORK CITY, NY – MARCH 5: Wendell Pierce attends HBO FILMS’ Screening of “LIFE SUPPORT” with Queen Latifah at Chelsea West Theaters on March 5, 2007 in New York City. (Photo by Billy Farrell/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)

Born on December 8, 1963, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Wendell Pierce discovered his passion for acting during his formative years. He honed his craft at the prestigious Juilliard School, laying the foundation for a successful career in the performing arts. Pierce’s early forays into acting included stage productions and small television roles, gradually garnering attention for his talent and dedication.

Breakthrough Moment On The Wire

Wendell Pierce with his wife during HBO’s Premiere of The Wire – Outside Arrivals at Chelsea Cinemas in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Jim Spellman/WireImage)

Undoubtedly, Wendell Pierce’s breakout role came with HBO’s critically acclaimed series The Wire. Portraying the pragmatic and morally grounded Detective Bunk Moreland, Pierce captivated audiences with his nuanced performance on what is undoubtedly considered one of the greatest television shows of all time. Furthermore, his portrayal of the seasoned detective navigating the complexities of Baltimore’s criminal underworld earned widespread acclaim and solidified his status as a formidable talent in the industry.

Expanding Horizons: Film & Television

LAS VEGAS, NV – NOVEMBER 10: (L-R) Chefs Roy Choi, Marcus Samuelsson, Comedian Bonnie McFarlane, TV personality Anthony Bourdain, actor Wendell Pierce and CNN anchor Don Lemon attend “Parts Unknown Last Bite” Live CNN Talk Show hosted by Anthony Bourdain at Atomic Liquors on November 10, 2013 in Las Vegas, Nevada. 24280_001_0555.JPG (Photo by Isaac Brekken/WireImage)

Beyond The Wire, Wendell Pierce continued to diversify his portfolio with compelling roles across film and television. He showcased his versatility in projects such as Treme, where he portrayed the jazz trombonist Antoine Batiste, earning further acclaim for his portrayal of a resilient musician navigating post-Katrina New Orleans. Pierce’s film credits include notable appearances in movies like Selma, Ray, and Malcolm X, where his commanding presence added depth to the narratives.

Broadway Success & Beyond

A new production of August Wilson’s landmark play Fences will open at the Pasadena Playhouse Sept. 1. The play stars Laurence Fishburne and Angela Bassett and a host of others. (l to r) Laurence Fishburne, Angela Bassett and Wendell Pierce on the set of the play. (Photo by Kirk McKoy/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

In addition to his screen work, Wendell Pierce has left an indelible mark on Broadway stages, delivering standout performances in acclaimed productions. His portrayal of Willy Loman in Death Of A Salesman garnered critical acclaim, showcasing his prowess in bringing complex characters to life on stage. Pierce’s contributions to theater have earned him accolades and cemented his reputation as a formidable force in both film and live performance.

Entrepreneurial Ventures & Advocacy

6th American Black Film Festival Honors - Red Carpet

Wendell Pierce at the 6th American Black Film Festival Honors held at the SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills on March 3, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)

Beyond his artistic endeavors, Wendell Pierce has also ventured into entrepreneurship and advocacy, utilizing his platform to effect positive change. He is involved in various philanthropic initiatives, particularly those focused on revitalizing his native New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Additionally, Pierce has demonstrated a keen entrepreneurial spirit, investing in real estate projects aimed at fostering community development and economic growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Wendell Pierce’s journey from humble beginnings to Hollywood success is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and dedication. With iconic roles like Detective Bunk Moreland in The Wire and a diverse body of work spanning stage, screen, and beyond, Pierce has carved a legacy that extends far beyond the confines of entertainment. As of 2024, his net worth of $8 million, as estimated by Celebrity Net Worth, underscores his stature as one of the industry’s most esteemed actors. Wendell Pierce’s enduring impact serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and a testament to the transformative power of storytelling.

Usher Celebrates 20 Years Of “Confessions”: “Let’s Keep Making History!”

Posted on March 25, 2024March 25, 2024 by EDITORIAL FEATURES

Usher celebrated the 20th anniversary of his iconic album, Confessions, on Instagram on Saturday. The project featured a number of tracks that went on to become some of the most popular in the singer’s entire discography including “Burn,” “Caught Up,” “Confessions II” and “Yeah!” He performed many of the hits from the album during his headling set for the Super Bowl Halftime Show, earlier this year.

“20 years ago today, we dropped the iconic ‘Confessions’ album, which is now 14x Platinum. Making it the highest RIAA certified album by a male soloist released this century,” he captioned the post. “The love and support from my Day 1s has been nothing short of incredible. Thank you for rocking with me through every lyric, every beat, and every confession. Thank you to each and every important collaborator that was apart of this very special project that helped mold and shape my career as an artist. Without you, Confessions wouldn’t be the masterpiece it is. Here’s to the memories, the vibes, and the timeless music that continues to move us. Let’s keep making history!!”

Usher Accepts NAACP Image Award

Usher at the 55th NAACP Image Awards held at The Shrine Auditorium on March 16, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by John Salangsang/Variety via Getty Images)

Despite the popularity of Confessions, the album failed to secure Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards, something Usher recently admitted still upsets him. Speaking with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe in February, he explained: “I’m still a little like, ‘Damn.’ I don’t know if there’s been an album that has actually sold as many or been as influential as that album has been.” Ray Charles’ final studio album, Genius Loves Company, ended up winning that year instead.

Usher Reflects On 20 Years Of “Confessions”

Check out Usher’s post about the anniversary of Confessions above. His newest album, Coming Home, released earlier this year. Be on the lookout for further updates on Usher on HotNewHipHop.

[Via]

Fans Celebrate And React To Summer Walker’s Growth As A Performer

Posted on March 23, 2024March 23, 2024 by EDITORIAL FEATURES

Summer Walker is growing as a performer and her fans are here for it. At the recent Souled Out Music Festival in Sydney, Australia, fans were treated to more than just electrifying performances. They witnessed a transformative moment in the career of R&B sensation Summer Walker. Known for her raw talent and introspective lyrics, Walker has long been a divisive figure in the music industry, with her performing abilities drawing both praise and criticism. However, her recent headlining performance has sparked a wave of positivity and celebration among fans, who have taken notice of her remarkable growth as a performer.

Furthermore, throughout her career, Walker has faced scrutiny over her stage presence. Some critics have questioned her ability to connect with audiences in a live setting. Last year, in a move aimed at addressing these concerns, it was announced that acclaimed artist Teyana Taylor would serve as Walker’s performance coach for upcoming shows. Since then, Walker has dedicated herself to honing her craft and refining her skills as a live performer. This commitment has not gone unnoticed by her fans.

Summer Walker Has Improved Her Stage Presence

At the Souled Out Music Festival, attendees were quick to recognize the marked improvement in Walker’s performance. Furthermore, they praised her newfound confidence and stage presence. Social media platforms have since been flooded with messages of support and admiration for the artist, with fans expressing excitement about her progress. “We love to see Summer Walker win,” one fan exclaimed, capturing the sentiment shared by many. Another echoed this statement, writing, “Yesss Summer progress!” The outpouring of positivity highlights the significance of Walker’s growth not only as an artist. But also as a symbol of resilience and determination in the face of criticism.

For Walker, the journey to this moment has been one of self-discovery. By embracing the guidance of mentors like Teyana Taylor and committing herself to continuous improvement, she has transformed into a confident and captivating performer. Furthermore, one thing is clear: Summer Walker is no longer just coming out of her shell. She’s shining brighter than ever before, lighting up the stage with a newfound energy. What do you think of Summer Walker’s growth? Let us know on HNHH!