HeavyHittas

After more than sixteen years behind bars, Harlem rapper Max B has been released from prison, marking a long-awaited return for one of New York’s most influential underground figures.

Originally sentenced in 2009 to seventy-five years for his alleged role in a fatal New Jersey robbery, his conviction was later reduced, cutting his time dramatically and reopening the door to a future few thought was possible.

Nas Breaks Down the Meaning of 'King's Disease' and MC Shan's Impact

Nas appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert to discuss his album King's Disease, explaining that the title reflects the pitfalls of overindulgence and how it can lead to an unfulfilled life. He shared how lyrics from MC Shan’s “The Bridge” deeply influenced him, particularly the verse encouraging listeners to follow their hearts and resist being misled by external negativity: “Dead dreams, bought and sold. You gotta try and receive your goal... Go by what your heart feel, ’cause if you don’t you’ll be misled by stupid little things put inside your head.”

Nas stresses that overcoming ego and focusing more on the art and authenticity is key to curing the "King's Disease."

Music: "Glory" by Jonney E

"Making Love" (Instrumental) by Jonney E

License this beat: https://beatstars.com/beat/making-love-2430475

Inspired by Memphis Bleek - "Smoke The Pain Away"

Originally produced by 9th Wonder

Re-production by Jonney E

A Celebration of 50 Years of Hip-Hop at Yankee Stadium

On August 11, 2023, Yankee Stadium hosted 'Hip Hop 50 Live,' celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop in the borough where it all began. Legends from New York and beyond delivered nearly eight hours of performances, highlighted by Nas crowning DJ Kool Herc as the Godfather of Hip-Hop and Run-DMC's possible final show. The night was a powerful tribute to hip-hop’s legacy, uniting generations in a celebration of its indomitable spirit.

Brooklyn Public Library Celebrates Jay-Z’s Life and Career in 'The Book of HOV'

The Book of HOV was a free exhibit at the Brooklyn Public Library celebrating Jay-Z Shawn Carter's life and career, curated by Roc Nation. It showcased never-before-seen photos, artifacts, and a replica of his early recording studio, along with murals and stories highlighting his 13 albums and entrepreneurial achievements.

Open from July 14 to December 4, 2023, the exhibit inspired visitors with Jay-Z’s journey from Brooklyn’s Marcy Projects to global success, encouraging them to chase their own dreams the way he did.

NYC hip-hop stories through interviews, shows, tributes & behind-the-scenes moments

A platform dedicated to capturing the essence of NYC’s hip-hop culture, serving as an archive of hip-hop’s past, present, and future. With original interviews, live concert footage, events, and behind-the-scenes access to pivotal moments. Tributes to legendary figures, originally directed music videos, and projects that spotlight the voices and events shaping the community.

"The Machine" by Jonney E

License this beat: https://bsta.rs/fVwiUd

"Making Love" (Instrumental) by Jonney E

License this beat: https://beatstars.com/beat/making-love-2430475

Lauryn Hill's Impromptu Speech on Poverty, Tech & Integrity Steals the Show at LA Event

At an NBA All-Star Weekend rooftop event, Lauryn Hill delivered an unexpected speech on poverty, technology, and humanity’s responsibility to solve global issues. With Isiah Thomas beside her, she reminded us: “We have the answers — we just have to be willing to share them.”

Filmed & edited by Jon Edwards

Originally recorded February 17, 2018 in West Hollywood, CA

Nas Breaks Down the Meaning of 'King's Disease' and MC Shan's Impact

Nas appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert to discuss his album King's Disease, explaining that the title reflects the pitfalls of overindulgence and how it can lead to an unfulfilled life. He shared how lyrics from MC Shan’s “The Bridge” deeply influenced him, particularly the verse encouraging listeners to follow their hearts and resist being misled by external negativity: “Dead dreams, bought and sold. You gotta try and receive your goal... Go by what your heart feel, ’cause if you don’t you’ll be misled by stupid little things put inside your head.” Nas stresses that overcoming ego and focusing more on the art and authenticity is key to curing the "King's Disease."

Music: "Glory" by Jonney E

License this beat: https://beatstars.com/beat/glory-22188673

Limited-Edition NYC MetroCards Honor Hip-Hop Icons LL Cool J, Rakim, Cam’ron, and Pop Smoke

The NYC MTA partnered with UME to launch special-edition MetroCards featuring NYC rappers LL Cool J, Rakim, Cam'ron, and Pop Smoke. Available for a limited time, the cards were distributed in each artist's home borough. With 40,000 cards per artist, these MetroCards celebrated NYC's rich musical legacy.

Giuliani's RICO Indictment Echoes the Lessons of 50 Cent's 'Slow Doe'

Rudy Giuliani, once celebrated for using the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) against New York mobsters in the 1980's and later mayor of New York City, has recently been charged under Georgia's RICO law. Giuliani, alongside Donald Trump and 17 other individuals, is accused of being part of a conspiracy to overturn the 2020 presidential election.

Fat Joe Reflects on Unreleased Collaboration with The Notorious B.I.G. Dissing 2Pac

Fat Joe recently opened up about working with The Notorious B.I.G. on a joint album, recalling that they cut a range of five to ten songs together. This lost collaboration is considered one of hip-hop's intriguing artifacts and was highlighted on the anniversary of Biggie's death. During his Instagram Live show and on his The Fat Joe Show, Joe revealed that the unreleased tracks contained disses aimed at 2Pac, and out of respect, since both Biggie and 2Pac have passed on, he decided those tracks should never see the light of day. The project, which represents a compelling moment in hip-hop history, was allegedly verified by Puff Daddy and others, marking a collaboration that, despite being real, will likely remain a well-kept secret.

Purchase Notorious B.I.G.'s autobiography "It Was All a Dream: Biggie and the World That Made Him" here: https://amzn.to/3ONW19r

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