Governors Ball kicked off the 2023 edition on Friday, June 9th, showing off their new digs in the sprawling in Flushing Meadows Park. After many years on Randall’s Island, and a brief stint in the parking lot of Citi Field, Governors Ball made the long anticipated move to the famed Queens park. Nestled amongst the giant trees and iconic landmarks, the festival feels right at home in the World’s Borough. The Canadian wildfire smoke cleared out entirely for the day, letting perfect weather shine for most of the day.
Lizzo, Governors Ball, 6/9/2023. Photo by Joseph Buscarello
On the GovballNYC stage, Saba set the tone with his early afternoon performance. He got the crowd going with hits like “Ziplock” and “Photosynthesis.” Over at the GoPuff stage, Tai Verdes kept it cool with “A-O-K” to get the crowd ready for Brooklyn’s own Joey Bada$$. Joey went through songs across his entire discography and made sure to let his hometown crowd feel his energy. Joey made a tribute to XXXTENTACION by performing their song “infinity (888).”
Joey Bada$$, Governors Ball, 6/9/2023. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil
The GoPuff stage did not disappoint with later sets from Ice Spice, Metro Boomin, and Lil Uzi Vert. Ice Spice drew one of the biggest crowds of the day, and took the house down with her viral songs “Much” and “In Ha Mood.” Metro Boomin’ followed up Ice Spice’s performance with an intricate DJ set. Rain started to pour but that didn’t stop the fans from screaming every word, bar for bar, during Metro’s performance. Over on the Bacardi stage, the brief rain shower made for an even raunchier set than normal from pop icon Kim Petras.
Kim Petras, Governors Ball, 6/9/2023. Photo by Joseph Buscarello
Lil Uzi Vert closed out the night with a bang. Interacting with fans throughout the set, he even announced that the highly anticipated “Pink Tape” will drop at the end of the month. Uzi went through the hits, brought out Ken Carson and Destroy Lonely and ended the night with their latest hit “Just Wanna Rock.”
Lil Uzi Vert, Governors Ball, 6/9/2023. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil
Meanwhile, over on the GovBallNYC stage, Lizzo dominated the stage with her larger than lifer performance. Flanked by a sea of dancers, backup vocalists, a killer live band, and several outfit changes, Lizzo’s powerful voice reverberated through Flushing Meadows.
Lizzo, Governors Ball, 6/9/2023. Photo by Joseph Buscarello
Day 2 gets going today, with sets from Finneas, Snail Mail, Rina Sawayama, Lil Baby, and Odesza. Stay tuned for our Saturday recap tomorrow morning.
Not all those who wander are lost. If you’re wondering, Rome Streetz travels far into well-versed pockets of the universe, never one to remain stagnant. His nomadic nature has landed him within several sectors of New York City and London. Nowadays, his rhymes are beginning to land him on concert flyers. Is Jerome in the house?
Nah. Jerome is out and about. At a young age his family sprung Rome into action. Moving back overseas and embodying change might have been his biggest blessing.The T-Mobile Sidekick LX inspired the rhyme writing at an early age but it wasn’t until he ended up back in London did the rhymes start to resonate. It’s almost like you don’t get love until you leave your hometown?
On the verge of a European record deal, Rome’s family moved him back to NY. It is impossible to name an exact region of NY where Rome roamed as he inhabited nearly every borough and bounced throughout every block in his lifetime. Alas, he has resided in Queens, Long Island, Brooklyn – say what you wish – this man is one of the most raw NY lyricists in the game today.
Rome Streetz goes from Mud to Moet
Rome Streetz emerged via DatPiff circa 2011. His mixtape, “Vagabond” earned a Coast to Coast Mixtapes title belt. At this moment, he began to align himself so that the chips would fall in his favor. As a result, Coast to Coast promoted the tape which sent his bars swirling within countless underground hip-hop circles. Unfortunately, Rome could not stake an ownership claim on any of the beats. Although this victory did not come with a paycheck – it symbolized the fall of the first domino for this lucrative Griselda Records Artist.
Fast forward to the present moment, Rome Streetz cannot miss. His tangential progression showcased a project per quarter last year which normally indicates an artist on a tear.
Creativity Breeds Consumption
Many artists harbor and labor over their projects as perfectionists. To each their own – those who consistently drop projects receive more placements, engagements and impressions.
Rome Streetz exists as a flaneur – an ambivalent figure of affluence with the ability to wonder; an acute observer of industrialized contemporary life (UGHH.) In other words, he has spent his time opening doors. Furthermore, when you think of Rome Streetz the word sonder comes to mind. Likewise, his rhyme patterns make you truly contemplate the fact that each and every passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as your own.
Last November, Rome Streetz represented Griselda Records to the fullest as the headliner at the Crib in Providence, RI. Ramon Lazo better known as 1000words hosts shows for those that rose from the underground concrete. The sacrifices that Lazo [More than just a Polaroid Photographer] makes for the underground culture cannot be undermined – only appreciated.
Warrior-like on a tape with Ransom – Rome sparred with an extraordinarily dense and picturesque emcee. His collaboration tape with DJ Muggs broadened reach to the West Coast. His verses on Westside Gunn’s eighth installment of Hitler Wears Hermes Side B (mixtape title is a play on Devil Wears Prada) were head and shoulders above other guests.
Capturing the Crown
Subsequently, the independent blueprint is alive and well thanks to non-gatekeeping individuals like Westside Gunn. Rome Streetz’ Joyeria mixtape released via Daupe! Media and for heads who know – not everyone receives placement via that platform. We’ve noticed that he loves to use imagery and alliteration while delivering art and storytelling. Furthemore, Rome Streetz clearly showed he can get his mixtapes poppin’ on his own. What Westside Gunn did was recognize his ability and accelerate the rate by which he could represent his region.
-Listen to Rome Streetz’ Griselda debut, Kiss the Ring–
The likening of his music to that of addictive substances cannot be overlooked. Many of the recanted tales could not be told if they hadn’t been lived. Undoubtedly, Rome knows how to add the right amount of seasoning to infuse the track with the proper flavorful adrenaline. His imaginatively infectious bars increase intention and interaction. Therefore, a hyphy energetic approach coupled with stamps of approval and strong rapport seal the deal.
Moreover, Streetz will continue to combine and intertwine laced rhymes for years to come. Especially with how the vinyl culture continues to flourish. Why sign to a major label when people are collecting CDs, cassettes and vinyls for $50 to $100 a pop?
NYC’s City Parks Foundation’s SummerStage is back for another year of concerts and entertainment. This season the series features everything from folk music icons to some of hip-hop’s most innovative voices. Most of the notable concerts will take place at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park. 12 different neighborhood parks across all five boroughs of NYC will also serve as venues. Concerts begin on June 3 and run until September 30.
Since its inception in 1986, SummerStage has established itself as one of New York City’s premier concert series. With 80 shows Summerstage showcases a diverse set of artists from various genres week after week. Apart from some ticketed benefit concerts, SummerStage events are usually open to the public and free.
In addition to concerts, Central Park will also screen films and host a multitude of different celebrations. The iconic greenspace has become an inseparable from NYC, hosting some of the most well known artists throughout the years. Curtis Mayfield, Elvis Costello, Crosby, Stills & Nash, and Jazmine Sullivan have all graced the stage in Central Park.
The other parks and outdoor spaces hosting SummerStage in 2023 include Marcus Garvey Park in Harlem, Tompkins Square Park in the East Village, Von King Park and The Coney Island Amphitheater in Brooklyn, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, Crotona Park in the Bronx, Stapleton Waterfront Park in Staten Island, and SummerStage’s flagship venue at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park.
This year SummerStage will celebrate hip-hop as the genre celebrates its 50th anniversary. The series aims to highlight not only its significance to NYC but also the impact it has had worldwide.
As part of the celebration, a special edition showcase will take over Coney Island on August 6. The event will feature artists Special Ed and many more, hosted by Ralph McDaniels. Frankie Cutlass and Black Sheep’s Dres will join the festivities on August 12 in Staten Island. A day later DJ Funk Flex will bring his birthday celebration to Brooklyn on August 13.
SummerStage’s 2023 roster boasts several international musicians but also tries to celebrate some of the city’s local artists. Argentina’s TRUENO and Puerto Rico’s Villano Antillano highlight the influence of Caribbean and reggaetón. Meanwhile Brooklyn-based artist Nick Hakim looks to bring his soulful R&B sounds back to his hometown.
We are thrilled to present another vibrant season filled with captivating artists from around the world and introduce music fans to their diverse sounds
Erika Elliott, Executive Artistic Director of SummerStage.
Saturday, June 3, 7 p.m., Central Park – Hippo Campus & Gus Dapperton – Benefit Concert
Sunday, June 4, 6:30 p.m., Central Park – Indigo Girls – Benefit Concert
Saturday, June 10, 6 p.m., Central Park – Opening Night American Blues – FREE Concert
Wednesday, June 14, 7 p.m., Central Park – New York Sings Yiddish! – FREE Concert
Thursday, June 15, 7 p.m., Central Park – Sammy Rae & The Friends – Benefit Concert
Saturday, June 17, 4 p.m., Central Park – The Aussie BBQ – FREE Concert
Sunday, June 18, 6 p.m., Central Perk – Buddy Guy’s Damn Right Farewell Tour – Benefit Concert
Monday, June 19, 4 p.m., Central Park – Park Jams, a Juneteenth Celebration – Benefit Concert
Tuesday, June 20, 7 p.m., Central Park – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Gabriella Reyes / René Barbera / Will Liverman and Dimitri Dover – FREE Concert
Friday, June 23, 7 p.m., Brooklyn Bridge Park – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Gabriella Reyes / René Barbera/ Will Liverman / Dimitri Dover – FREE Concert
Saturday, June 24, 5 p.m., Central Park – Stanley Clarke N 4ever / Kenny Garrett / Brandee Younger / DJ Logic in Association with Blue Note Jazz Festival – FREE Concert
Saturday, June 24, 7 p.m., Jackie Robinson Park – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Erika Baikoff / Thomas Glass / Cierra Byrd / Juan José Lázaro – FREE Concert
Sunday, June 25, 3 p.m. – Dreamland – Pride in Central Park – Benefit Concert
Monday, June 26, 6 p.m., Williamsbridge Oval – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Erika Baikoff / Thomas Glass / Cierra Byrd / Juan José Lázaro – FREE Concert
Wednesday, June 28, 6 p.m., Socrates Sculpture Garden – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Erika Baikoff / Thomas Glass / Cierra Byrd / Juan José Lázaro – FREE Concert
Wednesday, June 28, 7 p.m., – Michael Franti & Spearhead – Benefit Concert
Friday, June 30, 7 p.m., Clove Lakes Park – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Erika Baikoff / Thomas Glass / Cierra Byrd / Juan José Lázaro – FREE Concert
Saturday, July 1, 5 p.m., Central Park – Andy Shauf / Leith Ross / Yves Jarvis in association with the Consulate General of Canada in New York – FREE Concert
Sunday, July 2, 5 p.m., Central Park – Andy Shauf / Leith Ross / Yves Jarvis in association with the Consulate General of Canada in New York – FREE Concert
Saturday, July 8, 5 p.m., Central Park – Catalan Sounds On Tour: Queralt Lahoz / Marala / Lia Kali with DJ sets by DJ Trapella in association with the Institut Ramon Llull – FREE Concert
Sunday, July 9, 5 p.m., Coney Island – Tuff Gong Takeover feat Skip Marley & Friends – FREE Concert
Monday, July 10, 6 p.m., Central Park – Noel Gallagher & High Flying Birds and Garbage – Benefit Concert
Wednesday, July 12, 6 p.m., Central Park – Juanes / Conexion Divina in association with LAMC – FREE Concert
Thursday, July 13, 5 p.m., Central Park – Bastille Day: Joachim Garraud & Marie Berson / Passi / Bénabar / Adèle Castillon in association with Consulate General of France – FREE Concert
Thursday, July 13, 7 p.m., Von King Park – Works & Process at SummerStage: The Masterz at Work Dance Family with Courtney Washington – FREE Concert
Friday, July 14, 6 p.m., Von King Park – Nick Hakim / June McDoom / Evan Wright – FREE Concert
Saturday, July 15, 4 p.m., Von King Park – MIKE’S Young World III: Noname / Georgia Anne Muldrow / 454 – FREE Concert
Saturday, July 15, 5 p.m., Central Park – TRUENO / Villano Antillano / Dawer x Damper / KEXP’s El Sonido with Albina Cabrera ft. Camola DJ set in association with LAMC – FREE Concert
Sunday, July 16, 4 p.m., Coney Island – GOLDEN OLDIES ON THE BOARDWALK 2023 feat. The Duprees / The Coasters / Charlie Thomas’ Drifters w/ Jeff Hall / Bobby Wilson / Stan Zizka’s Del Satins / Vito Picone & The Elegants / The Chiclettes and More / Hosted by Joe Causi with DJ Vinnie Medugno in association with Fever Productions and Brian Rosenberg – FREE Concert
Sunday, July 16, 6 p.m, Von King Park – dead prez / th1rt3en / Large Professor DJ Set – FREE Concert
Wednesday, July 19, 5 p.m., Central Park – Julia Jacklin / Y La Bamba / Black Belt Eagle Scout -FREE Concert
Thursday, July 20, 5 p.m., Central Park – Horsegirl / Iceage / Water From Your Eyes / Lifeguard – FREE Concert
Saturday, July 22, 5 p.m., Central Park – Michael Brun Presents BAYO – Benefit Concert
Saturday, July 22, 5 p.m., Flushing Meadows Corona – Kool and the Gang – FREE Concert
Sunday, July 23, 5 p.m., Central Park – Taiwanese Waves: Waa Wei / The Dinosaur’s Skin / Mandarin Homework (DJ Mr. Skin) – FREE Concert
Sunday, July 23, 6 p.m., Flushing Meadows Corona Park – DJ Rekha’s Basement Bhangra Bacchanal: DJ Rekha / Malkit Singh with live band / DJ Ana / Sikh Knowledge / Rolex Rasathy / Param Singh / Dholi Anuradha and guests – FREE Concert
Thursday, Aug 3, 6 p.m., Crotona Park – Ted Smooth’s Freestyle Jam ft. TKA and Judy Torres – FREE Concert
Friday, Aug 4, 5 p.m., Crotona Park – “Birth of a Culture” Grandmaster Flash and Friends – FREE Concert
Saturday, Aug 5, 5 p.m., Central Park – The Originals: Stretch Armstrong / Rich Medina / Tony Touch / Clark Kent / D-Nice – FREE Concert
Saturday, Aug 5, 7 p.m., Crotona Park – Stonebwoy in association with Ghanafest-NY Crotona Park – FREE Concert
Sunday, August 6, 4 p.m., Coney Island – Hip-Hop 50: SPECIAL EDITION: Nice N Smooth / Special Ed /Buckshot of Black Moon / Masta Ace / CL Smooth / Rah Digga / Rampage / Black Sheep Dres / Sweet Tee / Joeski Love / Sparky D / Hosted by Ralph McDaniels (Video Music Box) – FREE Concert
Wednesday and Thursday, Aug 9 & 10, 7 p.m. Mt. Joy – Benefit Concerts – Sold Out
Saturday, Aug 12, 5 p.m., Waterfront Park – Frankie Cutlass / The Original Cover Girls / Cynthia / Black Sheep / DJ Millo and DJ Medina in Association with Maker Park Radio Stapleton Waterfront Park – FREE Concert
Saturday, Aug 12, 5 p.m., Central Park – VP Records Presents Roots Reggae Review – FREE Concert
Sunday, Aug 13, 5 p.m., Coney Island – Funk Flex & Friends Birthday Concert Featuring Raheem DeVaughn, Rob Base & More – FREE Concert
Aug 13, 5 p.m, Waterfront Park – Las Cafeteras / Natu Camara / Justy / DJ Kitty the Disc Jockey in Association with Maker Park Radio and La Isla Bonita Stapleton – FREE Concert
Thursday, Aug 17, 7 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Works & Process at SummerStage: The Missing Element with The Beatbox House / LayeRhythm – FREE Concert
Friday, Aug 18, 7 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Jason Moran and the Big Bandwagon: James Reese Europe and the Harlem Hellfighters: From the Dancehall to the Battlefield in Association with Jazzmobile – FREE Concert
Saturday, Aug 19, 5 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Mixtape (Film Screening) / DJ sets by Ron G / Doo Wop / Mister Cee / Tony Touch / Brucie B – FREE Concert
Saturday, Aug 19, 5 p.m. – Cautious Clay, Wet, Christian Kuria, and Zindelphia – Benefit
Sunday, Aug 20, 4 p.m., Coney Island – Jose Alberto “El Canario” / The Big 3 Palladium Orchestra: The Music Of Machito, Tito Rodriguez and Tito Puente – FREE Concert
Aug 20, 5 p.m., Central Park – Everyday People – FREE Concert
Aug 20, 5 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Hip-Hop 50: Native Tongue Edition: Monie Love / Black Sheep Dres / Chi Ali / DJ Red Alert hosted by Ralph McDaniels (Video Music Box) – FREE Concert
Wednesday, Aug 23, 4:30 p.m. – Manchester Orchestra and Jimmy Eat World – Benefit Concert
Thursday, Aug 24, 8 p.m. – Regina Spektor – Benefit Concert
Friday, Aug 25, 7 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Charlie Parker Jazz Festival: Orrin Evans and the Captain Black Big Band featuring Dianne Reeves / T.K. Blue in association with Jazzmobile – FREE Concert
Saturday, Aug 26, 3 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Charlie Parker Jazz Festival: The Cookers / Endea Owens and the Cookout / Nduduzo Makhathini Trio / Akua Allrich and The Tribe – FREE Concert
Sunday, Aug 27, 3 p.m., Tompkins Square Park – Charlie Parker Jazz Festival: Charles McPherson with Terell Stafford / Something Else! Vincent Herring Septet / HERA feat. Chelsea Baratz and Andromeda Turre / Michael Mayo – FREE Concert
Sunday, Aug 27, 5 p.m., Central Park – Palmwine Festival: Show Dem Camp and Friends in association with Move Forward Music – FREE Concert
Wednesday, Aug 30, 7 p.m. – Vance Joy with Dan Sultan – Benefit Concert
Thursday, Aug 31, 6 p.m., Central Park – In Our Own Sweet Time Tour: Vance Joy / Dan Sultan Subaru Music Series – Benefit Concert
Sunday, Sep 3, 5 p.m., Central Park – Emicida / Goyo / Screening: AmarElo: It’s All for Yesterday / in Association with 27th Inffinito Brazilian Film Festival – FREE Concert
Thursday, Sep 14, 5 p.m., Central Park – Tanya Tucker / Nikki Lane Subaru Music Series – FREE Concert
Ice-T rocked the stage at The 12th annual Bushwick Collective Block Party held on June 3rd in Brooklyn. The party proved to be an electrifying celebration of art, music, and community. Ice-T, the legendary rapper, actor, and cultural icon, headlined the concert and delivered a memorable performance that left the audience in awe.
Ice-T, who has been a prominent figure in the hip-hop scene for over three decades, has consistently pushed boundaries with his thought-provoking lyrics. As he stepped onto the stage, the cheers and applause erupted, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. Ice-T wasted no time in taking the audience on a musical journey through his extensive catalog. He seamlessly transitioned from classic hits like “Colors” and “6 in the Mornin’” to newer tracks that showcased his continued relevance in the ever-evolving rap landscape. He also brought a few special guests out including Kool Keith and Treach from Naughty by Nature.
The 12th annual Bushwick Collective Block Party was not only about Ice-T, though. Dres from Black Sheep had a set as well, as did Tony Touch and Statik Selektah who also both brought guests. Coney Island native Nems made a quick appearance during Tony Touch’s set. Statik brought out some younger acts like Kota the Friend and Recoechi as well as Termanology. Shade 45 talent D-Stroy hosted the event and DJ Evil Dee helped keep the crowd amped with a mix of classic hip hop hits. The collective talent on display was a testament to the hip-hop spirited community that continues to thrive in Brooklyn.
The event’s organizer, Joe Ficalora, created this open air gallery know as The Bushwick Collective over ten years ago. There are many murals of fallen hip-hop artists that pay tribute all around the area. Some include Guru, Nipsey Hussle, Biggie and Dave from De La Soul. The collective has transformed Bushwick into a hub of artistic expression. The annual block party serves as a culmination of their efforts, bringing together artists, musicians, and residents to celebrate the neighborhood’s vibrant spirit.
This is an important year for hip-hop. It marks the 50th Anniversary, a significant milestone that pays tribute to the genre’s enduring influence and cultural significance. From its birth in the streets of the Bronx to its domination of the global music scene, hip-hop has continuously challenged norms, and given voice to marginalized communities.
The celebratory and legendary concert Hip Hop 50 has been announced for Aug. 11 at Yankee Stadium, celebrating 50 years of Hip Hop with some of the biggest names in the genre including Run DMC, Lil Wayne, Snoop Dogg, and more.
Hip Hop 50 is celebrating 50 years of Hip Hop right in the birthplace of the genre, the Bronx. EMMY Award-winner and BASSic Black Entertainment CEO Adam Blackstone, who was the musical director for the dynamic, star-studded halftime show at Super Bowl LVI, where he also performed bass guitar on stage, is serving as managing creative music director, along with partner, producer/keyboardist Omar Edwards (Musical Director for JAY-Z).
The event is a part of Mass Appeal’s Hip Hop 50 initiative – a massive cross-platform initiative that celebrates Hip Hop’s anniversary in the most authentic and globally impactful way possible by acknowledging and recognizing Hip Hop as not only a genre but a movement that has impacted the worldwide community. Every facet of the Universe includes a charitable component connected to the Universal Hip Hop Museum.
Aug 11th is Hip Hop’s 50th birthday! So…’Up in the Bronx’ where it all started we will be celebrating this historic moment in history! I am honored to pay tribute to the culture that allowed this little shy kid from Queens to grow up and become The Mighty King of Rock! Thank you Hip Hop!!!
DMC
The event includes many well-known artists from the five boroughs and rappers born outside of New York. Featured is Run DMC’s “Bottom of the Ninth…The Walk-Off” performance, Lil Wayne, Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, a “Queens of Hip Hop” set featuring Eve, Lil Kim, Remy Ma, Trina, and more, as well as the beginning founders of rap like DJ Kool Herc, who was known for his turntablism that influenced early rap, and the Sugar Hill Gang. More artists are to be announced soon.
DJ Kool Herc, credit Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Hip Hop 50 live at Yankee Stadium tickets will become available beginning with presales on Thursday, June 8 at 10 a.m. EST until 10 p.m. EST before the general sale on Friday, June 9 at 10 a.m. EST. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit here.
Hip Hop group The Fat Boys will join the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame on June 11, a part of the LIMEHOF Hip Hop 50th Anniversary Event at their Stony Brook museum. Group member Kool Rock-Ski will be accepting the award on behalf of the group at this free, open-to-public event.
Starting in Brooklyn in the 1980s, Kool Rock-Ski would be accompanied by Prince Markie Dee and Buff Love, making up one of the first major rap groups to release full-length albums. Over their career came seven albums, four of which went RIAA-certified gold.
Their project Crushin’ would go platinum, with big thanks to the highly successful single “Whiplash” in a collaboration with the Beach Boys.
Fellow LIMEHOF inductee and hip-hop legend Kurtis Blow assisted in the group’s success in their first few years, producing two of their first pieces of work. Chart-topping singles “Jail House Rap,” “Can You Feel It?,” “Fat Boys,” “Stick ‘Em,” and many more hits follow the trio’s career.
NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 16: Fat Boys on June 16, 1989 in New York, New York. (Photo by Paul Natkin/WireImage)
The Fat Boys have also made appearances in multiple Hollywood movies including Krush Groove and Knights of the City, while also being a part of many hip-hop documentaries over the years.
The group’s induction comes during the 50th anniversary of hip-hop and will celebrate not only the Fat Boys but other LIMEHOF members who will be in attendance. To kick off the event, the organization will unveil the LL Cool J statue, featured at the Stony Brook museum location.
Besides Kool Rock-Ski, other rap figures including Son of Bazerk, DJ Jazzy Jay, DJ Johnny Juice of Public Enemy, and more plan to attend and even perform at the June 11 event starting at 1:00 pm.
Ernie Canadeo, the LIMEHOF Chairman, is thrilled to be celebrating the 50th anniversary of rap with some of its most prominent figures, calling it a tribute to the major pieces of Long Island music history.
“We are honored to pay tribute to the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop with a live concert performed by some of hip hop’s most influential artists, all from Long Island…it is a testament to Long Island’s prominent and continuing role in hip-hop’s legacy.”
– Ernie Canadeo
Throughout its history, LIMEHOF continues to support Long Island’s rap scene, holding inductions in the past for LL COOL J, Run-DMC, Public Enemy, Eric B. & Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, Kurtis Blow, Whodini, Salt-N-Pepa, and EPMD.
With the Fat Boys becoming the next rap talents to have their names in the Hall of Fame, free general admission tickets are now on sale at limusichalloffame.org/tickets-and-gift-cards/.
Janelle Monáe recently announced her “Age of Pleasure Tour”, which will feature two stops in the Empire State. The Grammy-nominated artist will visit the iconic Radio City Music Hall and Kings Theatre in Brooklyn. The 26-city tour kicks off on August 30 in Seattle at the WAMU Theater.
The tour coincides with Monáe’s long-awaited fourth studio album The Age of Pleasure which is slated to drop on June 9. Monáe released her critically acclaimed concept album Dirty Internet more than four years ago. The project earned the artist two Grammy nominations including one for “Album of the Year”, it also peaked at number 10 on the Billboard 200.
Since her last album Monáe has explored writing and acting, appearing in the films Harriet and Glass Onion, she also received praise for her role in the series We the People. Earlier this May Monáe dropped the single “Lipstick Lover” to go along with her upcoming album.
Presale tickets started on June 1, while on-sale tickets are set to be released on Wednesday, June 6. Tickets and more information can be found here.
Janelle Monae ‘Age of Pleasure’ Tour Dates
Wed Aug 30 – Seattle, WA – WAMU Theater
Thu Aug 31 – Vancouver, BC – UBC – Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre
Sat Sep 02 – Portland, OR – RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater
Wed Sep 06 –Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex
Thu Sep 07 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Sat Sep 09 – Kansas City, MO – The Midland Theatre
Mon Sep 11 – Minneapolis, MN – Armory
Wed Sep 13 – St. Louis, MO – Stifel Theatre
Thu Sep 14 – Chicago, IL – Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom
Sun Sep 17 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway
Mon Sep 18 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met
Wed Sep 20 – Montreal, QB – Mtelus
Thu Sep 21 – Toronto, ON – Massey Hall
Sun Sep 24 – Washington, DC – The Anthem*
Tue Sep 26 – New York City, NY – Radio City Music Hall
Thu Sep 28 – Brooklyn, NY – Kings Theatre
Mon Oct 02 – Charlotte, NC – Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre
Tue Oct 03 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium
Wed Oct 04 – Birmingham, AL – Avondale Brewing Company
Fri Oct 06 – Atlanta, GA – Fox Theatre Atlanta
Mon Oct 09 – Dallas, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory
Tue Oct 10 – Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center
Wed Oct 11 – Austin, TX – Moody Amphitheater
Sun Oct 15 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre
Tue Oct 17 – San Francisco, CA – Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
Cardi B continues her run of prominent features, this time bringing her New York flair to Grammy-nominated Latto’s thumper “Put It On Da Floor.” According to Billboard, Latto’s “Put It On Da Floor” debuted atop the Hot Trending Songs rankings. The official music video premiered on April 24 on YouTube and has gained nearly 6 million views.
In like manner, “Put It On Da Floor Again” sees the hottest from New York add her Midas touch to an already buzzing record. Similarly, the duo have released an accompanying music video that is trending #1 on YouTube. Together with cameos from Offset and college hoops star Angel Reese, the duo prance without care through a jewelry store flashing loads of cash before taking the sultry production to a house party as Latto and Cardi exchange combative lyrics, asserting themselves as the ones to be reckoned with.
Despite not releasing a studio album in five years Cardi B has maintained her threshold atop the hip hop mountaintop through a series of culture shifting features. Given that those records have been side-by-side with the likes of Megan Thee Stallion, Glorilla and Latto, Cardi B has also gained a reputation for wanting to help usher in the next generation of female rappers.
After all, since its release, “Put It On Da Floor” sparked significant conversation on social media platforms. Some listeners believed Latto took subliminal shots at her rap rival Nicki Minaj in the song after the duo clashed on social media last year. “She thought I would kiss her ass, she must ain’t took her meds,” raps Latto on both version of “Put It On Da Floor.” For their part, Cardi B and Nicki Minaj have their own complicated history that has even resulted in fisticuffs.
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has announced the opening of a new Hip Hop exhibit in commemoration of the genre’s 50 year anniversary. The exhibit, “Holla If Ya Hear Me,” will be the most in-depth of its kind and will open on June 29th at the Hall of Fame’s primary location in Cleveland, Ohio.
The exhibit, sponsored by Technics, will feature some of the most influential artists of hip-hop ranging back to its birth including: Jay-Z, Grandmaster Flash, Roxanne Shante, Chuck D, Salt N’Pepa, The Notorious B.I.G., Queen Latifah, and countless more. From these artists, “Holla If Ya Hear Me” will display handwritten lyrics, clothing, some of the earliest gear used to create hip-hop beats, as well as displays highlighting historic social issues that inspired infamous singles.
More specific artifacts being highlighted include the handbill from the “All Star Birthday Bash for DJ Kool Herc”, which served as the birth of hip-hop at the 1520 Sedgewick Avenue house party in 1973, along with items from other key moments such as the release of Rapper’s Delight and hip-hop’s first rivalry of 1984.
“Holla If Ya Hear Me” will continue through “the new school” era featuring artifacts from the time’s most important moments like LL COOL J’s first single on Def Jam Records; First Album by female hip-hop act to go Gold & Platinum; Salt-N-Pepa’s jacket’s from the “Push It” video; and select items that commemorate hip-hop’s social consciousness which will feature artists from Public Enemy; Kendrick Lamar; Ice-T and Queen Latifah. The Moguls of hip-hop will end the exhibit with pieces from Jay-Z, Sean “Diddy” Combs, Russell Simons and more.
Salt N’ Pepa, the incredibly successful hip-hop group from the 80s and 90s who gave public audiences the music staples “Push It” and “Shoop,” commented on their extraordinary past in hip-hop and their anticipation for the new exhibit.
Going on to receive multiple platinum records and becoming one of the best-selling hip-hop groups of all time, was more than we could have hoped for. It was a major milestone in hip-hop’s trajectory over the past 50 years and we are so excited to be able to celebrate this important moment in music’s history with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. We are honored to be a part of the new Holla If Ya Hear Me exhibit and hope everyone enjoys seeing some of our most iconic and important pieces from our career.
Salt N’ Pepa
To further celebrate the anniversary, the Rock Hall Shop will be offering an assortment of merchandise including T-shirts, hoodies, and accessories from some of hip-hop’s most influential artists and brands. New styles will be released all summer long.
Further information about the exhibition as well as the full artifact listing can be found here.
Fivio Foreign surprised fans with an unannounced 8-track EP titled, Without Warning. The unplanned mid-week release features Ye — formerly Kanye West — as the only guest on the song “Concussion.” Executive produced by managers Elliott Hardaman & Kahran Reefer, this latest project seems to have been strictly for his die-hard fans. In like manner, the free EP is only available on Soundcloud and Youtube and no other DSPs.
Along with the EP, Fivio and his team released a 15-minute “Without Warning” documentary where the “City of Gods” rapper shared the thought-process behind this surprise release. In addition, Fivio pays ode to his fallen friend TDott Woo, who was fatally shot in the Brooklyn neighborhood both artists frequented. The album’s opening track is titled “T DOT BACC,” sees him pay tribute to his friend by angrily rapping “how many opps I got to kill? I’m trying to bring TDott back.”
All in all, Without Warning sees Fivio return to his roots of sorts. Consequently, the catchy samples and expensive features that littered throughout his debut are not there. Rather, the project is laced with the fast-paced drill beats that have become synonymous with Fivio. Additionally, Fivio maintains his charisma, flow and contagious dialect that has made him the preeminent representative of New York hip hop culture.
