Kendrick Lamar Sighting Sparks New Year Optimism

It's become almost parody to suggest that 2020 was, as a general whole, a shitshow of apocalyptic proportions. And yet, as the New Year officially kicks off, many have opted to embrace hope and optimism moving forward; as they say, it's always darkest before the dawn. Though it's uncertain what the future will bring on a societal level, it's looking likely that the early months will see an influx of massive albums from hip-hop's Big Three -- J. Cole, Drake, and Kendrick Lamar. For many, that alone is enough to bring great comfort.

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While Drizzy and Cole have both confirmed titles for their upcoming endeavors, with Certified Lover Boy and The Fall Off respectively, Kendrick's follow-up to 2017's Pulitzer-Prize-winning DAMN. remains shrouded in mystery. Much like the artist behind it, who stands among the game's most elusive figures. So much so that, like Andre 3000 and Frank Ocean before him, a simple sighting is enough to spark excitement from his extensive fanbase. After all, the man did once say that we as a group will be "alright," and we could all use his wisdom right about now. 

As further details about his upcoming studio album remain relatively scarce, save for the long-rumored "rock influence" unearthed way back when, even the smallest bit of K Dot news is enough to get the ball rolling. Case in point, a recent sighting captured by one fan who actually crossed paths with the legendary emcee, a photo that naturally got the hopefuls all riled up at the prospect of new music. After all, it was confirmed that Kendrick would be performing some cuts from his forthcoming album this year, and if that isn't cause for optimism -- what is? 

source https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/kendrick-lamar-sighting-sparks-new-year-optimism-news.123950.html

Rihanna Reacts To Benzino's Royce Da 5'9" & Eminem Diss

Few things in life are certain. As Royce Da 5'9" once so eloquently pointed out, death is one such thing. So too, in an unexpected turn no less, is Benzino's undying hatred for Eminem and all who love him (including Joyner Lucas, who recently received his first dose of Zino scorn). Ever since the pair engaged in a brutal beef on wax that helped develop Eminem's reputation as one of the game's most feared opponents, the embers in Benzino's fire of hatred have yet to snuff out.

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This past year, Zino has been relatively vocal in his utter disdain for Slim Shady, and his Bad Meets Evil compatriot Royce Da 5'9 was recently dragged into the crosshairs. After the former Source employee found himself embroiled in a war of words with the Grammy-nominated Allegory lyricist -- one that popped off after Zino co-signed Lil Pump's misguided attempt at staying relevant -- Benzino attempted to go for the fatality by challenging Royce to a Verzuz battle.

"I know for a fact my catalog better than Royce's, somebody set up a Verzuz," wrote Zino, prompting a retaliatory teardown from Royce, who seemed to find the whole situation amusing. "You all owe me for these laughs," he responded, by way of his Instagram page. "I want my flowers for these hysterical outbursts during these trying times. This motafucka done challenged me to a Verzuz battle." Naturally, Royce's post sparked replies ranging from incredulous to downright awestruck by the audacity.

In fact, it even drew Rihanna into the fold, who offered her own take on the matter by way of a single, yet notably telling emoji: the facepalm. It should be noted that Rihanna has not, as of yet, addressed Eminem's recent apology made on "Zeus," one made after a disrespectful verse on "Things Get Worse" leaked. Still, if this reaction is any indication, it's clear that Rihanna still has love for the Bad Meets Evil team -- or at the very least a dislike of Benzino. Check out her reaction below. 

source https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/rihanna-facepalms-over-benzinos-royce-da-59-and-eminem-slander-news.123949.html

Lupe Fiasco Pays Tribute To MF DOOM With "Crosshairs" Freestyle

Yesterday evening, it was confirmed that the legendary MF Doom had passed away at the age of 49. Given his status as one of hip-hop's best lyricists of all time, it wasn't surprising to see tributes arising from all corners of the rap game. Those who value their penmanship were especially appreciative of everything DOOM brought to the table, a plentiful feast jammed with clever punchlines, sharp observations, villainous references, and brilliant wordplay. In honor of the man's legacy, Lupe Fiasco took to Twitter to pay homage in a suitable fashion: by spitting bars.

"Thanx DOOM...I learned so much from you about the art of rapping," writes Lupe, sharing a freestyle over DOOM's "Crosshairs" instrumental. "Studied and analyzed you for years as recently as a few days ago. I wish I could’ve met you to tell you that." Over the slick beat from DOOM and Danger Mouse's The Mouse & The Mask, Lupe actually channels MF's cadence as he pens a "message from the DOOM fans." As he spits, it's clear that his flow is inspired by the stylings of Viktor Vaughn, firing off apparent non-sequiturs that actually brim with deeper meaning. A fitting tribute from one hip-hop intellectual to another -- rest in peace to MF DOOM, the mind behind Madvillany, MM...Food, and many more.

QUOTABLE LYRICS

Scram, quick before the portal ends
Mind the coral, especially round' your dorsal fins
Cause he horrible, you can go from adorable to barely audible
I'm just warning you

source https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/lupe-fiasco-pays-tribute-to-mf-doom-with-crosshairs-freestyle-new-song.1989805.html

Uncle Murda's "Rap Up 2020" Gets Personal

Uncle Murda is back with a wrap up of 2020. Titled "Rap Up 2020," the track takes a turn away from his normal routine. In the past, Uncle Murda has run down a list of all the events that took place over the year. In a year like 2020, where the social commentary from celebrities and media was at an all-time high, Murda decided to take a different route. 

"Rap Up 2020" finds Uncle Murda rapping about his own year, and the things he went through personally. He even reminisces a bit. Things get deep as he touches on family, COVID-19, deals gone wrong, and more. The instrumental is comprised of a gorgeously sampled singing woman over beautiful piano keys. The sweet croon of the vocals gives the lyrics an extra gut-punch. 

Quotable Lyrics
At that point in my life my attitude was "fuck everything"
The streets proposed to me, I accepted the wedding ring
These all facts, these ain't lies
This is back when the three best MC's out was Biggie, Jay-Z, and Nas

source https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/uncle-murdas-rap-up-2020-gets-personal-new-song.1989804.html

Bun B & LE$ Drop Off Collab EP "Distant"

Bun B's hustle doesn't stop. He just hopped on "Pistol" with Tone Nwigwe andCyHi The Prynce and DJ KaySlay's Rolling 50 Deep, while also peppering 2020 with a slew of more music in the form of features. Bun has been missing on the album and EP game since 2019 when he dropped Bun B Day.

Now, the veteran is starting off the new year with a collaborative EP alongside Houston rapper LE$. The six-track EP is a brief and sweet piece of art. Le$ shows off with his different flows while Bun B just sits back and bosses things up. 

Tracks like "Maintain" and "Distant" are really stand out records that have high replay value. Bun already has a pretty large catalog, and was recently involved in a conversation about entering a Verzuz battle against Outkast. "My conversation with Swizz [Beatz] was about UGK Verzuz 8Ball & MJG. It's the people that are now asking for UGK and OutKast, right," he responded to fans pushing for the battle. Until then, enjoy the latest project from Bun B and LE$

source https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/bun-b-and-les-drop-off-collab-ep-distant-new-mixtape.121117.html

Tony Hawk Shares Hilarious Story About His COVID-19 Test

Tony Hawk was once known for skating, but is now known for sharing funny stories about his everyday life. Now that he is not spending all his time as an extreme sports athlete, Hawk is being a father and regular guy. The regular guy part is what usually makes his stories even funnier. One again, we were treated to a great moment from the life of Mr. Hawk when he shared a funny story on Twitter. 

"At a Covid testing site (wearing masks), handing over paperwork for me & two of my kids: woman looking over paper: 'okay... Anthony, Keegan and Kadence... Hawk? Are you guys related to Tony Hawk?'" Hawk tweeted. Once he answered yes, the worker asked... "'Are you pulling my leg?'" Hawk then replied "'No, we are all directly related to him.'"

The end of the story is somewhat anticlimactic though. When asked what happened, Hawk replied, "She pointed us towards our “swabber” and that was it. True story. Oh, and we were all negative." The regular guy adventures of Tony Hawk doesn't make for a great video game compared to skating, but it sure is good for a few laughs around the holidays. 

source https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/tony-hawk-shares-hilarious-story-about-his-covid-19-test-news.123947.html

YG. Dua Lipa, & More Headline YouTube's "Hello 2021" New Year's Eve Special: Watch Now

The usual festival and outdoor madness that takes place on New Year's Eve have been somewhat shut down due to the ongoing pandemic. However, live music fans are being treated to virtual shows that cost them nothing from the comfort of their homes. There are a few options for New Year's Eve entertainment, and YouTube is bringing their own program to the party. This year, as part of the YouTube Originals series, the streaming giant is releasing a five-part series called "Hello 2021."

"With the world ready to move past an extremely challenging year, YouTube will use its global reach to celebrate the hope and promise of 2021," Global Head of Original Content for YouTube Susanne Daniels stated in a press release. Along with the American release, there will also be "Hello 2021: UK," "Hello 2021: Korea," "Hello 2021: Japan," and "Hello 2021: India." These events will all usher in the New Year around the world. "We look forward to closing the book on 2020 and throwing a worldwide celebration that our YouTube community can safely enjoy from home," Daniels continued.

The "Hello 2021: Americas" New Year's Eve special starts at 10:30 PM EST and is hosted by Storm Reid and Juanpa Zurita. YG is set to perform, along with Dua Lipa, J Balvin, Karol G, and Kane Brown. YG recently saw a surge in the streams for his single "FDT" after the election that pushed the song to number one on iTunes. Matthew McConaughey, RuPaul, Demi Lovato, Jimmy Fallon, and more are expected to make guest appearances as well. Check it out below.

source https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/yg-dua-lipa-and-more-headline-youtubes-hello-2021-new-years-eve-special-watch-now-news.123946.html