by Monet, Who Else | Oct 18, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Joe Budden, a well-known rapper-turned-podcaster, recently shared his thoughts on Drake’s highly anticipated album, ‘For All the Dogs’, on Episode 664 of The Joe Budden Podcast. The conversation sparked a lot of discussion, with fans eagerly awaiting Budden’s critique of the album. While Budden has a complicated history with Drake, he has always maintained that he is a big fan of Drake’s music throughout his career.
In the podcast episode, Budden and his co-hosts delved into their thoughts on ‘For All the Dogs’, offering both positive and negative feedback. One of the standout moments from the podcast was when Budden called out Drake’s performance on the track “First Person Shooter” featuring J. Cole. This clip quickly went viral, catching Drake’s attention and reigniting their past issues. Drake responded by writing a lengthy Instagram caption aimed at Budden, criticizing his music career and questioning his credibility.
Budden’s Mixed Review of ‘For All the Dogs’
Despite the heated exchange between Drake and Budden, it’s important to note that Budden’s critique of the album was not entirely negative. Throughout the podcast episode, he shared his honest opinions on various aspects of the album, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses. Let’s take a closer look at Budden’s thoughts on different tracks and elements of ‘For All the Dogs’:
“8am in Charlotte” – A Disappointment for Budden
Budden admitted to being a fan of Drake’s past entries in the time stamp series, but he found “8am in Charlotte” to be underwhelming. He expressed his disappointment, stating that the track didn’t live up to the rest of the series. While he acknowledged that Drake was “rapping well” on the song, he felt that it didn’t fit the mood or temperament he expects from the time stamp series.
Budden believed that “Virginia Beach” should have been a diss track directed at Pusha T, one of Drake’s long-standing rivals. He praised the beat of the song but questioned why Drake didn’t go all out in dissing Pusha T. Despite his disappointment in the missed opportunity, he still appreciated what Drake was talking about on the track.
Shots at Rihanna – Confusion and Criticism
Budden expressed confusion over Drake’s decision to seemingly take shots at Rihanna in the song “Fear of Heights”. He questioned why Drake would go after her and ASAP Rocky, the father of her children. He viewed it as petty and unnecessary, particularly since Rihanna hadn’t released an album in seven years. However, he did acknowledge the beat switch in the second half of the song as “insane.”
“First Person Shooter” with J. Cole – Budden’s Overall Issue with Drake
Budden pointed out that the song “First Person Shooter” with J. Cole exemplified his overall issue with Drake. He criticized Drake’s decision to let Cole’s voice be the first voice heard on the track, suggesting that it showed Drake trying to align himself with Cole when they aren’t actually close. Budden felt that Drake failed to rise to the occasion in comparison to Cole’s performance on the song.
Drake Rapping in Spanish – A Missed Mark for Budden
Budden made it clear that he never wants to hear Drake rap in Spanish again, particularly referencing the track “Gently” featuring Bad Bunny. He felt that Drake’s execution of rapping in Spanish was subpar and compared it to when Drake started singing “Happy Birthday,” suggesting that it was a low point in his career. He also described the second half of the album as “a mess.”
‘For All the Dogs’ as Drake’s Best Since ‘Scorpion’
Despite his criticisms, Budden acknowledged that ‘For All the Dogs’ is Drake’s best album since ‘Scorpion’, released in 2018. While his co-hosts argued that this may not be saying much, Budden expressed his disappointment with the current state of hip-hop albums in general. He believes that many rappers sound uninspired and lack the creative energy to innovate. He suggested that Drake could do with some time off to recharge and potentially bring fresh ideas to the table.
Missing Verses and Dominant Hooks
Budden questioned the absence of the verse that Lil Yachty praised on ‘For All the Dogs’. He couldn’t find the verse that Yachty claimed was one of Drake’s best, raising doubts about its inclusion on the album. He also expressed his disappointment in the lack of memorable hooks from Drake in recent times, as he believes Drake’s strength lies in his ability to create catchy and dominant hooks.
Drake Rapping for the Children
Towards the end of the podcast episode, Budden suggested that Drake’s album sounded like he was “rapping for the children” rather than his longtime fans. He felt that Drake should focus on creating music that resonates with adult audiences and tackles more mature topics. Budden compared Drake’s growth to that of J. Cole, stating that he wants to hear Drake rap for adult people.
A Break for Drake
Budden expressed his happiness that Drake is taking a break from music, referring to Drake’s recent announcement that he will be stepping away from the studio to focus on his health. Budden and his co-hosts even suggested that Drake could benefit from taking a year or two off between albums. They emphasized that Drake has already accomplished so much in his career, and it shouldn’t be solely on him to set the standard for the music industry moving forward.
In conclusion, Budden’s critique of ‘For All the Dogs’ was mixed. While he had several criticisms and disappointments with the album, he still considers himself a fan of Drake. He acknowledged the album as Drake’s best since ‘Scorpion’ but questioned whether that’s saying much given the current state of rap albums. Budden hopes to see Drake take some time off and return with a refreshed perspective and innovative ideas.
In the end, it’s clear that Joe Budden’s critique of Drake’s ‘For All the Dogs’ album is multifaceted. He presents both positive and negative feedback, highlighting specific tracks and elements that left an impression on him. While his comments may have sparked controversy, it’s important to recognize that Budden’s opinions come from a place of deep knowledge and experience in the music industry.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Oct 10, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
In the realm of music where change is the only constant, one group has managed to stay relevant and true to their roots. The dynamic duo, Little Brother, has once again ignited the music scene with their latest EP, ‘Wish Me Well / Glory Glory’.
A Reunion with a Purpose
In a surprise move last August, Phonte and Big Pooh of Little Brother came together to announce a unique music extravaganza – ‘Made In Durham: A Little Brother Block Party’. Named after their hometown in North Carolina, this event is set to take the music world by storm this October.
In a promotional video that mirrors the excitement of a wrestling match, the duo confirmed that other music sensations like The Cool Kids, Big K.R.I.T., and even comedian Sam Jay will grace the event with their presence.
An EP as a Prelude to the Event
As a way to build anticipation for the upcoming event, Little Brother dropped a new EP on September 19. This EP features two tracks – “Wish Me Well,” brought to life by the musical genius of Deonis “Pumah” Cook, and “Glory Glory,” which showcases Big Pooh’s lyrical talents in the opening verse.
Big Pooh’s verse in “Glory Glory” is a testament to his lyrical prowess. It reads, ” Glory, glory, standing on the shoulders of giants, Robert Horry, a bit of history, bitter n**gas bore me, all praises due, I was rocking to Kane, my brother rocked ‘caine too, now they dopesick, I author like Beth Macy, penmanship that drive critics and crowds crazy, limitless, 20 in, there’s no safety, and we still letting rounds off…”
Music Video: A Testament of Relevance
In addition to the EP, fans can enjoy a music video for “Wish Me Well.” This track is a jazz-infused rework of Cook’s “Ecstasy,” serving as a testament to Little Brother’s musical relevance in 2023.
Phonte’s rooftop rap in this nostalgic track is a reminder of their unwavering commitment to music. He raps, “Wish me well or call me Ishmael, croquettes and grits, n**ga, this is that fishscale, this is that dispelled rumor that we not active, my man said, ‘Tay, come and get your plaque,’ and when I came and got it, saw our names was misspelled, pulled out the parking lot and almost fishtailed,”
Dive into the Musical Journey
Embrace this musical journey by playing their latest EP and the aforementioned music video. For those eager for more, additional details about ‘Made In Durham: A Little Brother Block Party’ can be found here.
Little Brother continues to push boundaries and redefine music norms with their unique style and innovative approach. Whether it’s their reunion or their new EP, they never fail to surprise their fans and keep them on their toes. Their journey is a testament to their talent, and their music, an embodiment of their spirits. It’s not just about the fame or the recognition, it’s about the music, the passion, and the unyielding determination to stay true to their roots. Here’s to Little Brother – their music, their journey, and their unwavering spirit.
by Laghe Andrews | Sep 29, 2023 | Latest, Social Justice |
Photo by Sebastian Pichler on Unsplash
A Louisiana judge has recently made a groundbreaking decision in the realm of juvenile justice, ordering the transfer of young inmates from a maximum-security facility to a more suitable environment. This action resonates as a significant stride towards social justice, particularly for those who have been advocating for the rights of incarcerated minors.
The Backdrop of the Decision
The Louisiana State Penitentiary, colloquially known as Angola, has been housing youth inmates under inhumane conditions. The penitentiary, infamous for its maximum-security status, has been the subject of numerous lawsuits and protests against its treatment of minors.
“The conditions at Angola were more than just harsh – they were downright cruel and unusual.” – Advocate for Juvenile Justice
Federal Judge Shelly Dick, the Louisiana judge in question, ruled in favor of a civil lawsuit brought against the state by advocates and family members of the incarcerated minors. On a momentous day in September, she ordered state officials to execute the transfer of these young inmates.
Parental and Advocacy Outcry
Parents and advocates have long argued against the placement of minors in Angola. The prison, which operated as a slave plantation in the past, is known for its sweltering heat and harsh conditions. They argued that it was inappropriate for minors to be housed in such an environment.
Angola: A Glimpse into its History
Angola, once a slave plantation, was converted into a prison during the Civil War before becoming a death row facility for adults. The prison is recognized as the largest maximum-security facility in the country, with the capacity to house over 5000 offenders.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Louisiana has been active in this fight for justice. David Utter, the lead counsel on the case, issued a statement voicing the demand for investment in children, not punishment. He called upon Louisiana’s leaders to address the systemic failures in the state’s juvenile justice system.
The Deadline for Justice
The state has been given a deadline until the middle of September to rehouse the youth. This decision is a significant step toward ensuring that all children — Black, Brown, and white — have equal access to opportunity and justice.
The Louisiana judge’s ruling serves as a beacon of hope for youth inmates and a victory for social justice advocates. As the story unfolds, it remains to be seen how the state responds and what further steps will be taken to protect the rights of incarcerated minors.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Sep 27, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Renowned rapper Offset, part of the famed Migos trio, has made waves with his newest single, “Fan.” The song, which is part of his upcoming solo album “Set It Off,” is accompanied by a music video that pays tribute to the legendary Michael Jackson. This article delves into the details of the song, the inspiration behind the video, and the anticipated release of Offset’s second solo album.
Offset’s Latest Offering: “Fan”
“Fan” is the latest release from Offset, ahead of his second solo album, “Set It Off.” A product of collaboration with producers Aaron Bow, FNZ, Teddy Walton, Thank You Fizzle, and Thurd, the single is a testament to Offset’s musical prowess as a solo artist. Coupled with the song is a music video directed by Offset himself, providing a visual narrative to accompany the compelling lyrics.
The music video for “Fan” isn’t just an average visual supplement to the song; it’s a homage to one of the greatest pop icons in history – Michael Jackson. Shot in the heart of Los Angeles, the video sees Offset channeling the King of Pop’s iconic eras, outfits, and music videos, including “Thriller,” “Billie Jean,” and “Smooth Criminal.” The tribute is a bold and creative move from Offset, bridging the gap between eras of music and showcasing his admiration for the influential artist.
“This season is personal for me. It marks a new chapter in my life,” Offset shared. “I feel like Michael Jackson coming from a successful group breaking records to superstardom on my own. This body of work is healing for me and a letter to my fans and supporters.”
Anticipating “Set It Off”
“Set It Off,” Offset’s sophomore solo album, is highly anticipated by fans and critics alike. The album is a follow-up to his 2019 solo debut, “Father of 4,” and is set to release on October 13. The album not only includes “Fan,” but also features a collaborative single with Cardi B titled “Jealousy.”
Offset’s tribute to Michael Jackson in the music video for “Fan” is a testament to the rapper’s creativity and respect for the industry’s legends. As fans eagerly await the release of “Set It Off,” they can enjoy the homage to the King of Pop and anticipate what other surprises Offset has in store for them.
Offset: A Constant in Music News
With his latest release “Fan,” Offset continues to be a prominent figure in music news. His tribute to the legendary Michael Jackson in the song’s video has garnered attention, further solidifying his status in the industry. As fans anticipate the release of his upcoming album “Set It Off,” they can expect more news, surprises, and innovative music from Offset.
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by Derrick T Lewis | Sep 26, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Image credit: John Steel / Shutterstock.com
Renowned artists Drake and SZA have teamed up to release a fresh song titled “Slime You Out“. The single, dropped a week before Drake’s much-anticipated album For All The Dogs, has already sparked considerable buzz in the music industry.
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Interestingly, Drake and SZA, both prominent figures in the music world, share a personal history. They were romantically involved in the late 2000s, specifically around 2008-09. Their past connection has added an extra layer of intrigue to their latest musical collaboration.
A Nod to Drake’s Past Crushes
The song’s promotional material features an image from 2012 of actress Halle Berry at the Kids’ Choice Awards, being covered in slime. This choice of imagery is not random. Drake, over the years, has been open about his celebrity crushes, and Halle Berry was one of them. However, this image did not make it to the cover of the streaming platforms. Instead, the cover art honors Adonis Graham, Drake’s son, in a tribute to the For All The Dogs album.
Drake’s Nickelodeon Slime References
Fans of Drake will be familiar with his penchant for referencing Nickelodeon’s iconic slime in his lyrics. In Young Thug’s Business Is Business opener “Parade on Cleveland,” released in June, Drake rapped, “Slime on your head, Nickelodeon time”. This trend continues in “Slime You Out”. Drake sings, “I’m slimin’ you for them kid choices you made,” in the first verse. This is a clear nod to the Nickelodeon culture and its tradition of sliming individuals.
SZA, on the other hand, offers a rebuttal in the song, stating she has “too much pride” to be slimed out. This interplay of lyrics adds a playful element to the song while reflecting the personal dynamics between the two artists.
A Glimpse into Drake’s Upcoming Album
The release of “Slime You Out” has given fans a sneak peek into what they can expect from For All The Dogs. The album, according to various sources, boasts some of Drake’s best verses and deals with controversial topics.
Drake’s father, Dennis Graham, has described the album as “some of the best music” he has heard from his son. Fans and critics alike are eagerly awaiting the release of the album, set to drop on September 22nd, the same day as Doja Cat’s Scarlet album.
Conclusion
“Slime You Out” marks a fresh chapter in the professional relationship between Drake and SZA. Their personal history adds a layer of intrigue to the song, making it a must-listen for fans of both artists. As we await the release of For All The Dogs, the new track gives us a glimpse into the musical genius of Drake and sets high expectations for the upcoming album.
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