Last week (the week of April 20th), there was a lot going on the hip-hop world. Catch up on all your latest hip-hop news here at TheOriginalChatman.com
Last time we heard from Ab-Soul was December 2016, from his solo album Do What Thou Wilt Do. Soulo’s “Dangerookipawaa Freestyle” song title borrows inspiration from Top Dawg’s social media handle @dangerookipawaa. On the track, he compares himself to greats of the past and present such as Craig Mack and Eminem, meanwhile name-dropping frequent collaborator and fallen rapper friend Mac Miller.
Tuesday 4/21/20
Lone wolf (his EP title from last year) Zacari, notably remembered from his assist on Kendrick’s hit song “LOVE.”, dropped “Edamame” and “This Woman’s Work.”
“Edamame” is about the loss of a love interest, and “This Woman’s Work”, an homage to the original song by Maxwell, expresses his relationship regrets.
Wednesday 4/22/20
Isaiah Rashad built a cult following, especially after Rashad’s sophomore effort 2016’s The Sun’s Tirade. While Rashad may be an artist on a highly-sought after rap label, his “everyday man” feel within his music attracts his fan base. That’s not the case with his latest single. “Why Worry” deals with forever changing rules to the ugly side of “fame.”
Thursday 4/23/20
SiR‘s latest sophomore album, Chasing Summer, did some big time placement on the Billboard 200 reaching the 64th placement. Following the success of this album, he released the Boogie-assisted song “Rapper Weed” which surprisingly doesn’t have a drug-induced sound to it. The vibe is very relaxed as always on any song by SiR.
Friday 4/24/20
Reason has made a name for himself outside his home label–especially fiercely rapping and competing with fellow Californian rapper Cozz of the Dreamville camp. “Might Not Make It” is another brash comparison similar to “LamboTruck.” “Might Not Make It” fantasizes about the crazy things Reason would do if he had 24 hours left to live on this planet. This is the biggest name-drop I’ve heard in a while!
For those of you who missed out on Something In The Water, check out my review/recap here at TheOriginalChatman.com!
Virginia has already been on the map, but Something in The Water made it official.
“It is beautiful to see that everyone realizes that this was always supposed to be more than a music festival,” shared Pharrell in an interview with The Virginian-Pilot. Now that Something In The Water has came and went–I speak for myself and other VA locals when I say this—we’re ready for next year! Pharrell’s festival creation will be back on the Oceanfront for 2020. Check out the source here.
“If you know, you know.” These prophetic words from Pusha T (one-half of the Virginia Beach rap duo The Clipse) were best said on his recent body of work, Daytona. Virginia natives (such as myself) have long recognized Virginia as a hotbed of musical and cultural relevance before the epic scale of Something In The Water. Hampton Roads is up to its neck in talent. It’s no coincidence Something In The Water (SITW) fell under the same weekend as College Beach Week; nor is it a coincidence Pharrell brought us SITW at the right time.
friday 4/26/19
That Friday was supposed to set the weekend tone; unfortunately, Mother Nature wasn’t letting anyone be great! Rain and thunderstorms prevented the day from running its course. While several people scrambled to various Oceanfront restaurants to take cover, I found myself hiding inside an arcade off 14th and Atlantic. The sun beamed through clouds a few times; nevertheless, the entire festival was shutdown that day.
In the eyes of some, Friday’s rainy forecast washed away high hopes of the festival being a success. I knew better, and I felt it too. Waking up Saturday morning with my optimism still in tact, day 2 of SITW was going to be different. Those words Pharrell echoed to the press, “more than a festival” were sustained by the various activities and community conversations offered throughout the weekend. Furthermore, the vast amount of food vendors, local and beyond Hampton Roads, was enough to keep me distracted from Friday’s fiasco.
More Than A Music Festival
For example, corporate sponsors Adidas and Timberland brought forth forward-fashion (free customizable tote bags and Adidas slides) mixed with grass-root community efforts that reach a global scale(Timberland presented festival-goers the chance to plant traceable trees that will revitalize Haiti’s ecosystem while also handing out free swag). American Express presented an Hampton Roads-themed/SITW Art-Walk scattered throughout the Oceanfront. Pharrell called on Chad Hugo and several other famous guests to join them for a live taping of OTHERtone, Pharrell’s Beats 1 Apple Music radio show. I firmly believe Pharrell took a page from other festivals, applied his own spin for SITW, and created a wave for the next few years.
saturday 4/27/19
Saturday’s line-up was like THAAAAAAAAT. A$AP Ferg, SZA, Kaytranada, Travis Scott, and Pharrell and Friends.
A visual representation of someone asking me how the Saturday line-up for SITW was on day 2!
Kaytranada
Kaytranada is a name everyone should know. He’s worked with names like Syd, Ty Dolla Sign, and his live DJ sets will get you moving no matter who you are! Unfortunately, not everyone was jamming as hard as they should’ve been. I know the word “vibe” is used a lot but it was nothing but tons of those during his DJ set.
SZA
If you’ve ever followed me on any social media over the past few years, you’re aware of my love for Solana Imani Rowe, better known by her stage name SZA. (For the record, I’ve been a fan since before her 2017 debut album Ctrl). Her signature free-flowing frolic dance and soulful smooth crooning are staples of her artist brand. There was no one/nothing that could stop me from witnessing her beauty and grace up close and personal for the first time. As powerful as that sounds, it’s a half-truth ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ . SZA does make very relatable music; however, her music is mainly from a female perspective. (insert photos/videos here)
Imagine how hard it was for someone over 6-feet tryna stay lowkey while singing songs like songs like “Go Gina”, “Say It Like That”, “Drew Barrymore” and “Love Galore”. Willing to risk any stares I received (and I did get some wild ones), I kept my cool even loudly whispering, “That’s my wife! I love you SZA!” After her set ended, I turned around to look for my dispersed friends. On the journey back to them, I met a random kid with a Ctrl 2017 Tour shirt. When asked about his t-shirt, he told me he was proud to wear it and even prouder to call himself a SZA fan. We dapped each other up and then I left. That small interaction with him made me feel less crazy for admiring her as a fan.
Pharrell & Friends
No Pharrell Williams slander will be tolerated as long as I’m alive. DON’T YOU. DO. IT! Who do know you has enough juice to bring out Snoop Dogg, Charlie Wilson, Tyler the Creator, Missy Elliot, Diddy, and Busta Rhymes on the stage.. on the same night!? P warmed up the crowd rapping some notable hits he’s produced/sang on over the years such as “Hot In Hurrr”, “Alright” and “Mr. Me Too.”
Diddy diddy-bopped and hit us with a smooth, crisp dance number shared along with his three sons. Timbaland gave the crowd nostalgic You Got Served vibes doing “Breathe In, Breathe Out” with fellow VA native and (often-forgotten) veteran artist Magoo. Snoop and Charlie chimed in to help Pharrell serenade the crowd with “Beautiful.” The stars were aligned on the beach.
You know that feeling when you reach the highest of highs, and excitement becomes an out-of-body experience? That’s exactly how I felt when JayZ slyly positioned himself next to Pharrell for his verse on “Frontin'”.
Any ounce of cool I *thought* had in that moment was lost when Jay popped up and continued doing hits like “Izzo”, “I Just Wanna Love You” and my personal favorite “PSA(Public Service Announcement)”.
Allow me to reintroduce myself…my name is Hov!
Sunday 4/28/19
By the time Sunday arrived, my voice, body, and mind were drained from the whylin’ out I put on for Saturday’s line-up. Nevertheless I kept that same energy from Saturday for Sunday. Chris Brown, Teddy Riley and Anderson . Paak were the last few artists I were ready to give my energy to.
In similar fashion to Pharrell and Friends, Teddy Riley snuck in some surprises throughout his set. 🎶 Doooon’t let me goooooo! 🎶I like the way you work it–No Diggity!🎶
Next thing I know, Coko of the ’90s girl group SWV came thru with her silky summertime voice to perform “Weak” and “Right Here (Human Nature Remix).” Somewhere between “No Diggity” and “Don’t Let Me Go”, Teddy transitions his keyboard playing into “Curious” by Midnight Star, the sample behind Lil Duval’s “Livin’ My Best Life.” Lil Duval jump-skip-hops along the stage and everyone goes nuts!
Chris Brown
Light rain came thru and reared its ugly head before Chris’s set causing him to hop on stage 20 minutes later than his 9:10 showtime. To be honest, I’m not even mad he was lip-synching for the most part. He danced so vividly I couldn’t believe the moves I was watching on stage. They were done so smoothly and effortlessly!
Anderson . Paak
Prior to me writing this, one of my friends recently just got hip to Anderson .Paak and I’m sad to inform y’all this person is no longer my friend! 😔
I kid, of course!😜 Without discrediting the legacy of the late soul singer James Brown, I can honestly say Anderson . Paak is the modern day James Brown with a modern approach. When the Chris Brown crowd left, I discretely inched closer towards the stage in an effort to catch the groovy vibe he and his band The Free Nationals gave off to wrap up Sunday night.
Something in the water was…
Overall one of the greatest experiences I’ve been a part of in a while! It’s about time people stop sleeping on Virginia and what we have going on in our hometown. Something is truly in the water, alright.
Check out the season 1, episode 3 review of #BoomerangOnBET here at TheOriginalChatman!
This week was about reclaiming one’s “power” which ironically happens to be the episode’s theme. How many of us feel or have felt powerless at work, in our love lives, or within other areas? * slowly raises my hand* For most people, power and control become synonymous ideals leading to our destiny.
Bryson still yearns for Simone’s heart, yet he’s still having trouble articulating his feelings for her—-in efforts to not destroy their friendship. Furthermore, his work superiors can’t properly understand the visions he has for the company. Bryson seeks guidance from his therapist. During this therapy session, he revealed that his power struggles began with his mother’s emotional neglect vs. her relentless work ethic.
Although these two power struggles collide, Bryson stands in his power towards the episode’s end.
Elsewhere, Simone is struggling to make her marketing skills flourish without The Graham Agency’s support(she was fired from the company with her name on it back in episode 1!).
At the agency, Bryson creeps his way to being back in control. His boss Victoria gently dismantles his project idea, but allows the young protege to follow his plan with confidence. All is well until Simone appears before him. Their chance encounter leads them working together on a project: but can he do his job without catching feelings?
In the midst of the project, Tia, Simone’s friend who she reached out to for rebuilding her brand image, is used as a pawn for Simone to pull on Bryson’s heartstrings. She’s used to getting her way but Bryson sticks up for himself by making an opinionated choice with logic instead of feelings, yes..those some feelings which got him here in the first place.
Let this be a lesson that being in your feelings can and WILL get you caught up. Don’t be afraid to boss up and be your best self ladies and gents!
Drake drops the video for the song of the summer, “In My Feelings”– meanwhile YG and Big Sean step on the neck of EA, the publisher of “NFL” Madden 19″ for good reason. More at TheOriginalChatman.com!
Hol up, wait a minute…. *Meek Mill voice* Can y’all believe it’s really August!?
We’re really in August, which is practically the Sunday of the summer.
Not gonna lie…I stole that joke from the Internet and have no shame in it! Anyways…check out this past week’s trending topics, brought to you by TheOriginalChatman.com.
-TheOriginalChatman
Mon. 7/30
1. Sony unveils a new trailer for the standalone “Venom” movie.
“The World Has Enough Superheroes” flashes thru out the second official trailer of Sony’s standalone Spider-man film, Venom. In this trailer, we see more of what Venom looks like.
The film follows journalist Eddie Brock (played by Tom Hardy) uncovering the truth behind an evil scientist releasing alien symbiotes on unsuspecting everyday citizens.
Venom looks to be extremely darker compared to previous Spider-man entries. Check out the trailer below!
Wed. 8/1
2. Colin Kaepernick’s name is bleeped out on a song from Madden 19; YG and Big Sean react to the news; meanwhile EA, the company responsible for Madden games issue an “apology.”
It’s disappointing and appalling @NFL & @EA took @Kaepernick7’s name out of my verse on Big Bank for Madden 19, like it was a curse word. When he's not a curse, he's a gift! Nobody from my team approved any of this.
Imagine having a person’s name–not a curse word!— bleeped out from a rap song in a video game. Who does that!?
This was the case when the Internet caught wind of EA’s slip-up within “Madden NFL 19”.
The error occurs halfway thru Big Sean‘s verse on YG‘s song “Big Bank.” Sean raps, “I lead the pack and sh-t/you boys all cap, I’m like Colin Kaepernick.”
EA issued an apology with: “We messed up, and the edit should never have happened. We meant no disrespect, and we apologize to Colin, to YG and Big Sean, to the NFL, to all of their fans and our players for this mistake.” For the full apology, read it here.
3. Sanaa Lathan shares the first trailer for her Netflix-assisted film, Nappily Ever After.
The upcoming Netflix film Nappily Ever After mirrors the identity crisis of Violet Jones’ need to be in control over every aspect of her life–until one day she breaks down and decides to free herself by shaving her head.
Nappily Ever After is a film adaptation of its literary predecessor by author Trisha R. Thomas starring Sanaa Lathan and others.
Lathan took themethod acting approachand showed the world her shaved head in an Instagram video from late 2017.
4. Drake finally unleashes the video for “In My Feelings.”
The video for the song of the summer (NON-debatable fact) is finally here! It features cameos from Shiggy (the Instagram sensation who started the #InMyFeelings challenge), LaLa Anthony, and the illustrious Phylicia Rashad.
No words for the video..just ENJOY it, because I deflee (word to Jess Hilarious) did!
Fri. + Sat. (8/3 and 8/4)
5. A tie worn by Randy Moss becomes the centerpiece of attention from the NFL Hall of Fame ceremony.
Photo via Sports Illustrated Twitter (@SInow)
The Internet has a way of making things blow up or go downhill. Depending on the circumstance, public figures are unfortunately are caught in that crossfire when they trade a regular life for fame and fortune.
Over the weekend, former player Randy Moss wore a necktie to the Football Hall of Fame ceremony that represented the names of black men, women, and children who lost their lives to police brutality or while in police custody.
Moss explained his choice of neckwear after the ceremony ended on camera with this anecdote:
“What I wanted to be able to express with my tie is to let these families know that they’re not alone. I’m not here, you know, voicing, but by these names on my tie, and a big platform as the Pro Football Hall of Fame—there’s a lot of stuff going on in our country, and I just wanted to let these family members know that they’re not alone.”
Will Smith does the #InMyFeelings challenge for the culture. Speaking of culture, Cardi B and Offset welcome their baby girl Kulture into the world! Read more on TheOriginalChatman.com!
This week for the Weekly Wrap Up..Will Smith does the #InMyFeelings challenge for the culture. Speaking of culture, Cardi B and Offset welcome their baby girl Kulture into the world! Read more below! -TheOriginalChatman
Mon. 7/9
1. Winston Duke to star in a biopic detailing the life of deceased MMA fighter Kimbo Slice.
After playing M’Baku in two Marvel titles (Black Panther and Avengers: Infinity War), actor Winston Duke continues his way to stardom by taking on a most daring role as the late fighter Kimbo Slice.
For those of you unfamiliar, Kimbo Slice (real name Kevin Ferguson) faced homelessness and transformed as a YouTube fighting sensation to professional MMA fighter. Slice died June 2016 of congestive heart failure.
No word on co-stars, director, or release date but the biopic is slated to be called Backyard Legend. Congrats to Duke on his new role!
2. Cardi B became a meme with an old childhood photo she posted to her Instagram!
If y’all ain’t know by now…the Internet has zero chill and is quick to turn ANYbody into a meme. This was the case with an old photo of five-year-old Cardi B. Here’s a sample of the latest Cardi memes that have been floating around:
“K U L T U R E 7/10/18 K I A R I C E P H U S” (Photo and caption via Offset’s Instagram @OffsetYrn)
3. Cardi B and Offset welcome Kulture, their new baby girl, into the world!
This past Tuesday, Cardi B and Offset welcomed their baby girl Kulture Kiari Cephus into the world! Kulture gets her name from Offset’s real name Kiari Cephus, meanwhile the child’s name pays homage to the Migos previous albums, Culture and Culture II.
Thurs. 7/12
4. Will Smith does the #InMyFeelings challenge.
You do what when you’re poppin’. CORRECTION: You can do what you want when you’re one of the world’s biggest movie stars— aka Will Smith!
This a screenshot of Will Smith doing the viral #InMyFeelings / #DoTheShiggy challenge, started by Instagram sensation, @TheShiggyShow (Shiggy). Photo from Instagram (@willsmith).
The #InMyFeelingsChallenge was originally started by Instagram sensation TheShiggyShow, who goes by Shiggy for short. Since it began late June, other celebs such as Kevin Hart, Ciara, and Russell Wilson have taken a stab at the viral dance.
Apparently the Internet thinks Will Smith “won” the challenge as the actor took his attempt to new heights— literally! Smith danced on top of a bridge in Budapest. Despite stiff dance moves, one cannot help but admire the effort Will put into the challenge. Check out Will’s daredevil-ish attempt and let me know what you think.
2018 hasn’t been great for Pittsburgh emcee Mac Miller. He was slapped with a DUI back in May of this year, and even split up with his former pop star girlfriend Ariana Grande.
However, Mac’s looking to make a comeback with his new album, Swimming. As mysterious as the project material and title may be, a 30-second promo trailer for the album provided “some” context.
Mac took it a step further by even announcing his tracklist. Swimming marks Mac’s first album since September 2016’s The DivineFeminine(which was a great birthday gift to myself back then, thanks Mac!).
1. “Come Back to Earth” 2. “Hurt Feelings” 3. “What’s The Use?” 4. “Perfecto” 5. “Self Care” 6. “Wings” 7. “Ladders” 8. “Small Worlds” 9. “Conversation Pt. 1” 10. “Dunno” 11. “Jet Fuel” 12. “2009” 13. “So It Goes”
6. Ari Lennox announces new single, “Whipped Cream.”
Despite multiple shows, tours, and festivals going on within the J.Cole-helmed Dreamville camp, one label mate has remained quiet for quite a while now: Ari Lennox.
The first lady of Dreamville informed fans via her Instagram and Twitter that her new single, “Whipped Cream” drops Monday, July 16th.
The single’s promo was simple yet suggestive enough to have listeners craving for more. Check out Ari’s tweet for her new single, and hit up the comment section for your thoughts.
Simple and straight to the point, Lebron James’ sports agency, Klutch Sports Group, made a quiet announcement with a press release announcing that he’ll play with the Lakers.
1. Lebron James signs a four-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers!
King James f.k.a. Lebron James is taking his talents to the Lakers, and did so in the quietest fashion ever..with a press release and practically no press conference this time!
Tues. 7/3
2. The official remix to Ella Mai’s “Boo’d Up” features guest verses from Nicki Minaj and Quavo.
Apparently the Internet hates it, and some people hated it before even hearing it. Me personally…I’m with the Internetz…issa no for me dawg!
Earlier this week, Chance the Rapper celebrated the the fourth of July and freaked it (*Kendrick Lamar “King’s Dead” ad-lib).
On the day most people in the United States seem to hate the most, Chance made sure to make the holiday a memorable one: by proposing to his long-time girlfriend and baby’s mother, Kirsten Corley.
Surrounded by loved ones at a barbecue, Chance alluded to the proposal with this tweet:
She said yes 🔗
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) July 5, 2018
Here’s video footage of the proposal, in which Chance asked, “Will you make me a man and be my wife?”
A “fan” disapproved of Chance’s proposal and Chano wasn’t having it. Chance exchanged tweets and even went as far as to personally DM this Twitter user. What do y’all think? Be sure to sound off in the comments below!
Can I be honest? I really thought Chance the rapper proposal was extra hot smelly trash. I'm all for keeping it simple but 5 years and kid. She deserved a little more effort. It was kinda fuck boyish like well I guess we can finally get married
— Makeveli Mab…the ruler's is back (@Its_RianM) July 5, 2018
So @chancetherapper decided to search his name on twitter and saw what I said about his proposal. Then took it upon himself to DM me. To respond to your statement I thought it was wack and I think you are too. Don't DM me. pic.twitter.com/VfpuT0VoZx
— Makeveli Mab…the ruler's is back (@Its_RianM) July 5, 2018
Fri. 7/6
5. Nicki Minaj and Ariana Grande drop the video for their duet, “Bed.”
So prior to making this post, I spent roughly 5 minutes watching the video for Nicki Minaj‘s latest duet with Ariana Grande. The video was bleh, and the video seemed very lackluster for a song that’s supposed to give a sexy summer-time vibe.
Nicki spends her time rolling around in the ocean as a mermaid, and towards the end magically transforms back into her human form to be on time for a date with Odell Beckham, Jr. from the New York Giants. Whoopee!
“If the Barbz and Arianators (fan bases for Nicki and Ariana, respectively) come for my neck, and I don’t come back from war..mark these as my last words…”
Sat. 7/7
6. Drake’s Scorpion album becomes the first project ever to hit one billion streams in a week across all platforms!
“Scorpion” broke records with one billion streams globally! Photo via Drake’s Instagram (@champagnepapi).
Champagne Papi. The 6 God. Drizzy. Whatever you may call him..Drake seemingly continues to shatter records with almost every album he drops!
According to Billboard, The superstar rapper’s newest effort became the first album to reach one BILLION global streams across all digital platforms.
Prior to Scorpion tearing up global streaming records, Post Malone‘s beerbongs & bentleys held the global record with under 700 million streams.
Congrats due to Drake! Let’s all help him celebrate by doing the #InMyFeelings / #DoTheShiggy challenge.
Check out all your entertainment needs from the Weekly Wrap-Up on TheOriginalChatman.com!
Mon. 6/25
1. A week after XXXtentacion was murdered, his hit song “SAD!” became the number one song in America.
XXXtentacion was a troubled kid yet his music lives on—literally. The troubled MC whose no longer with us created music that still touches fans from beyond the grave.
“SAD!” charted its way to the Billboard Hot 100, making it X’s first #1 hit.
According to Rolling Stone, this is the first time a rapper had a No. 1 song since Biggie’s “Mo Money, Mo Problems” back in 1997.
2. Cardi B and Offset secretly got married…and TMZ got the proof of their wedding certificate to prove it!
TMZ spilled the beans on Cardi B and Offset’s secret wedding! Photo Credit: TMZ
Here’s a snippet of the actual marriage certificate, which shows that they’ve been married since September 20th of last year. Check the full document here.
That gosh darn TMZ..maaaan, they be on it for real!
Apparently, they joined each other’s hand in marriage MONTHS ago…..OKURRRR (Cardi B voice)!
On Sunday, June 24th, the Migos accepted the BET Award for Best Group in which Offset said, “I thank my wife, you should thank yours.” (To be honest…I was too busy being upset that A Tribe Called Quest didn’t win to pay attention to what Offset was actually saying!)
Congrats to the happy couple, especially since they’re expecting their first child together sometime later this month!
Wed. 6/27
3. Kendrick Lamar landed on the cover of Vanity Fair!
It seems like everyday Kendrick Lamar is reaching not only new heights as a top-tier hip-hop artist, but also as a person aware of his responsibility to himself and his community.
Fresh off winning the coveted Pulitzer Prize, Vanity Fair just snagged an interview with Kung-Fu Kenny in which is discusses Kanye West, Colin Kaepernick, and more.
I haven’t read the interview yet myself; however, I’m sure there’s gems in it. I’ll be back in a few days to give my opinion on his Vanity Fair cover story. In the meantime, check out the cover below!
Kendrick Lamar is the new cover star of the latest issue of Vanity Fair. Photo was taken by Annie Leibovitz for Vanity Fair.
Thurs. 6/29
4. Drake dropped his latest effort “Scorpion.” Memes and IG captions are here all summer 2018!
Side A is rap, while side B is strictly R&B vibes. Which side is your favorite or are yall not feeling the album overall?
Fri. 6/29
5. Chance the Rapper speaks on upcoming joint projects with Kanye West and Childish Gambino.
Sat. 6/30
6. Paul George and Russell Westbrook of the OKC Thunder were seen hanging out with Nas as he performed new music from his latest album, Nasir.
Jay-Z and Beyonce dropped a joint album last night! While on tour! Oh yeah, some other things happened to. TheOriginalChatman.com
Welcome to a new installment ofTheOriginalChatman’sWeekly Wrap-Up! Happy Father’s Day weekend to all the fathers and fatherly figures around the world! Here’s what happened this past week.
Mon. 6/11
1. Jay-Z and Beyoncé reveal risque photos from their On the Tour Run II tour.
Without a doubt, Jay-Z and Beyoncé have been extremely influential in crafting the narrative behind the term “power couple.”
This week the pair granted fans access to some NSFW photos promoting the second installment of their On The Run Tour.
Beyoncé looks effortlessly comfortable in these photos while Jay-Z looks..well..uncomfortable! Be sure to give your comments below about the new tour photos.
2. PEOPLE Magazine reveal the scoop about Ariana Grande and Pete Davidson’s surprise engagement—after only weeks of them dating!
Saturday Night Livecast member Pete Davidson (24) and pop superstar Ariana Grande (also 24)are engaged after weeks of dating. The engagement has been confirmed by People.
The month of May was a shaky time for both Davidson and Grande, as they both were somewhat fresh off breakups with their previous significant others.
Moments after the news went public, Grande tweeted a emoji-filled message full of bliss. Check out Grande’s tweet and the beautiful new couple’s Kodak moment below.
“i love u 🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈 sm 🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈🙈 ok bye”
5. Cardi B and Offset’s Rolling Stone photo-shoot was leaked early!
There’s no stopping the meteoric star power of Cardi B. Cardi has a busy summer schedule, on top of prepping to be a new mommy!
Despite her and Offset‘s Rolling Stone July cover being leaked early, Cardi put the cover on her Instagram and informed her fans that they’ll be having a girl!
Check out the cover below and be sure to hit up the comments with your thoughts.
Sat. 6/16 – Sun 6/17
6. Jay-Z and Beyoncé drop their joint album, Everything is Love, while currently on the second installment of their “On The Run” tour.
Album art for Everything is Love.
Imagine being on a world tour with your superstar wife and dropping an album because you BOTH felt like it!
That’s exactly what Jay-Z and Beyoncé did last night via their exclusive streaming service, TIDAL.
The couple’s joint project, Everything Is Love, boasts only nine songs. They refer to themselves as “The Carters.” Stream it here to listen.
Weekly Wrap-Up of your favorite trending topics the week of February 18th-24th. TheOriginalChatman.com.
SPOILER ALERT: Most of these trending topics are about “Black Panther”!
Happy Sunday everybody! Who’s seen Black Panther? Better yet..the questionI SHOULDbe asking is who H A S N ‘ T seen Black Panther yet? Man ohhh man—this film is making a killing in the box office. I hope it does so for the rest of the year tbh. This entire wrap-up contains news about the movie, no spoilers or anything, so please enjoy what you see! #WakandaForever
Sun. 2/18
1. Sylvester Stallone releases the movie poster for “Creed 2.”
Sylvester Stallone took to his Instagram (@officialslystone) to share a fan-made poster for the upcoming sequel to Creed, Creed 2.
If you may recall, the original film follows the footsteps of Adonis Creed, the son of deceased boxer Apollo Creed— played by Michael B. Jordan. Check out the poster below!
According to IMDB, Adonis Creed will face Viktor Drago, the son of Rocky Balboa’s old nemesis, Ivan Drago.
2.Lupita Nyong’o honors her Black Panther co-stars Chadwick Boseman and Michael B. Jordan by imitating their latest magazine cover photo shoots.
As Black Panther‘s box office success continues to break records, the one thing also growing with time is the bond between the film’s cast members.
Lupita Nyong’o paid homage to her Black Panther co-stars Michael B. Jordan and Chadwick Boseman as she re-created Michael’s GQ photo shoot and Chadwick’s photo shoot for Rolling Stone.
Sidenote: Lupita….if you’re single, please don’t afraid to slide in my DMs on (@thechatmanjay/ @theoriginalchatman) Instagram. I promise I don’t bite!♥
Lupita Nyong’o recreates Michael B. Jordan’s GQ photo shoot and Chadwick Boseman’s rolling stone photo shoot 🖤 https://t.co/tmMVuUBWzS— MEFeater Magazine (@mefeater) February 20, 2018
3. Will Smith congratulates the cast of Black Panther in a celebratory Instagram video.
A co-sign from Will Smith must mean you out here killing the game!
Earlier this week, he took to Instagram to name drop and congratulate the entire cast of Black Panther—as the film deserves endless amounts of praise according to Smith.
Smith claims he was “damn near got brought to tears.” He adds on, “I’m proud and I’m excited, damn near giddy.” Feel free to check out Will Smith’s full-length heartfelt expression to the Black Panther cast below.
5. Ryan Coogler writes letter to fans of Black Panther.
Black Panther director, Ryan Coogler. Photo Credit to Jerod Harris/Getty Images.
As I mentioned earlier, a huuuuuge majority of this wrap-up is related to Black Panther. If you’ve made it this far without growing tired of me rambling on about the movie, I owe you big time!
Long story short, the brilliant director behind the movie, Ryan Coogler, penned an emotional letter to Black Panther fans and it just made every other negative thing in the world temporarily not matter. While the letter is a tad lengthy, Coogler basically expressed his gratitude while also admitting he didn’t expect the film to perform so well. The lesson here boys and girl is to NEVER underestimate yourself!
Here is the full letter from Coogler himself, posted from Marvel’s Instagram (@marvel):
I am struggling to find the words to express my gratitude at this moment, but I will try.
Filmmaking is a team sport. And our team was made up [of] amazing people from all over the world who believed in this story. Deep down we all hoped that people would come to see a film about a fictional country on the continent of Africa, made up of a cast of people of African descent.
Never in a million years did we imagine that you all would come out this strong. It still humbles me to think that people care enough to spend their money and time watching our film- But to see people of all backgrounds wearing clothing that celebrates their heritage, taking pictures next to our posters with their friends and family, and sometimes dancing in the lobbies of theaters– often moved me and my wife to tears.
For the people who bought out theaters, who posted on social about how lit the film would be, bragged about our awesome cast, picked out outfits to wear, and who stood in line in theaters all over the world– all before seeing the film…
To the press who wrote about the film for folks who hadn’t yet seen it, and encouraged audiences to come out…
And to the young ones, who came out with their parents, with their mentors, and with their friends…
Thank you for giving our team of filmmakers the greatest gift: The opportunity to share this film, that we poured our hearts and souls into, with you.
Sincerely,
Ryan Coogler
P.S. Wakanda Forever
[Source: Instagram (@marvel)]
Thurs. 2/22
6. Chris Tucker confirms a fourth installment of Rush Hour in the making?!
“I took a hiatus, now I’m back on you haters!” (Hov voice/Hov laugh)
Not a real Jay quote as far as I know. TheOriginalChatman.com!!
“I took a hiatus, now I’m back on you haters!” (Hov voice/Hov laugh)
P.S. Not a real Jay-Z quote, as far as I know. Anyways, check out the weekly wrap-up for the second week of February brought to you by TheOriginalChatman.
Mon. 2/5
1. Cozz’s new album Effected is on the way, so the Dreamville-affiliated rapper releases the album’s tracklist along with the release date.
While Top Dawg Entertainment (Kendrick Lamar, SZA) is tearing up the industry with its tours and imminent Hollywood takeover, the J.Cole-helmed label Dreamville is quietly making moves also.
Cozz’s new album Effected— a title paying homage to his first mixtape Cozz and Effect— will be available this Tuesday, February 13th. He’s already released two singles, “Badu” featuring Curren$y and “Ignorant Confidence.” Check out the album art below.
2. Donald Glover appears in the first trailer for “Solo: A Star Wars Story.”
Donald Glover is constantly balancing duties between music, film, and television like it’s nothing. No biggie, to be honest!
Originally, a teaser dropped on SuperBowl Sunday with the full trailer available for fan enjoyment the following day.
While Glover’s Lando Calrissian character doesn’t do much speaking in the Solo trailer, it’s assumed Glover supporting role will be one for the ages. Here’s the full trailer for the film. What does everyone think of the film’s trailer?
3. Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s video for “All the Stars”continues to build anticipation for Marvel’s Black Panther.
Can we skip over other movies for the rest of 2018 and crown Black Panther as the best film of all time? No? Yes? Is my geek showing? I know the movie hasn’t been released yet, but my expectations are already out of this world!
Dave Meyers and The Little Homies (Meyers and Kendrick Lamar himself) blessed us with the official music video for “All The Stars”, the lead single from Black Panther The Album.
In the video, Kendrick and SZA are seen surrounded by literal black panthers, an aesthetic of bright colors and a biblical-like landscape similar to Wakanda, the fictional setting from Black Panther. Check out the visually stunning and wonderfully illustrated video below.
4. Bruno Mars proposes that the NFL take place in Atlanta next year, and that the half-time acts be prominent hip-hop artists from the past and present.
Taking one step ahead of everyone, Bruno Mars boldly proposes via Twitter that the 2019 SuperBowl honor hip-hop by allowing prominent artists of the city play the half-time show.
“NFL, you have the opportunity to celebrate incredible Hip Hop Artist from Atlanta next year. Outkast, T.I., Gucci, Lil Jon, Jeezy, Jermaine Dupri just to name a few. it would be the best party Tv has ever seen!”
While hip-hop has long transitioned into the mainstream, I find it hard to believe the NFL will allow any of Atlanta’s rap gatekeepers that Bruno tweeted about to actually be there. Not because they are sub-par as artists/performers, it’s just that hip-hop and the NFL seem like an unlikely partnership moving forward in already divisive political climate we live in.
5. R&B/soul virtuoso Anderson .Paak promises a new album sometime this year!
It’s been two years since we’ve last received a solo project from Anderson .Paak.
According to .Paak, the album is in its mixing stages and will be released sometime this year, as he is still under the guidance of Dr. Dre and Aftermath Records.
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