by Jonathan P-Wright | Jan 15, 2024 | Latest, Music News |
Tony Yayo, known for his hit song “So Seductive“, recently shared some insights into his experience as the supporting act for 50 Cent’s highly profitable Final Lap Tour. This tour was nothing short of a monster, spanning over 70 cities in more than 20 countries in a six-month period between July and December last year.
The Financial Breakdown
Though Yayo didn’t delve much into the specifics of his earnings, he mentioned that he made a ‘six-figure’ income from the tour and that 50 Cent’s merchandise earnings alone ran into the millions.
“His merch is in the millions. He’s an icon,” Yayo said.
This indicates the scale of 50 Cent’s influence and the success of his brand.
The Tour Organizers
The tour was organized by Live Nation, a global event company known for managing some of the biggest events in the music industry.
This quote from Yayo reveals how even industry insiders were taken aback by 50 Cent’s remarkable success on this tour.
The Luxury Lifestyle
Yayo gave us a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle they led on tour, describing their stays in high-end hotels like the Four Seasons and W in Bahrain, and their encounters with famous personalities.
- “People think that Fif is a bad guy, but when you’re staying in the Four Seasons, you got the Eiffel Tower there, you staying at the W in Bahrain sipping Ranis on the water.”
- “There’s an F1 race track around the hotel. You just missed Giorgio Armani at breakfast. It’s a fucking movie! Working with 50 is a fucking movie, bro!”
50 Cent’s Work Ethic
Despite the luxuries, it wasn’t all relaxation and partying. 50 Cent’s dedication to his performance was evident in his rigorous routine, even when on tour.
- “50’s running on the stages, lifting cranes, switching seven outfits, he goes to the gym twice a day. 50’s not fucking around.”
This glimpse into 50 Cent’s work ethic gives us an understanding of the determination and dedication that has led to his immense success.
In Conclusion
Whether you’re a fan of Tony Yayo, 50 Cent, or just an avid follower of music news, it’s clear that the Final Lap Tour was a significant event in the music industry. It’s not just about the ‘six figures’ or the lucrative tour, but the dedication, hard work, and strategic planning that went into making it a success.
Yayo’s account underscores the fact that in the music industry, success is not just about talent and creativity, but also business acumen, perseverance, and the ability to seize opportunities.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Dec 22, 2023 | Latest, Music News |
The music industry mourns the demise of a legendary figure, Joseph ‘Amp’ Fiddler, whose influence and contributions have left a significant imprint on the world of funk and soul music. Aged 65, the Detroit Funk superstar, as he was fondly referred to, succumbed to a long battle with cancer.
The Announcement of His Passing
In a heartfelt statement released on his Instagram account, his family shared the somber news.
“We face the insurmountable responsibility of sharing the passing of Joseph ‘Amp’ Fiddler, Detroit’s own world-renowned ambassador of funk, soul, and electronic music, keyboardist, producer, Afro-futurist, and guiding force of light for so many. He has transitioned at the age of 65. After an extensive and noble battle with cancer, he now gracefully rests in peace and power.”
The Man Behind the Music
Joseph ‘Amp’ Fiddler wasn’t just a musician; he was a creative force that breathed life into the music scene. His artistic prowess was not limited to performing. He was also a seasoned keyboardist, a visionary producer, and a guiding force for many upcoming artists. His musical style was an eclectic mix of funk, soul, and electronic music, which he used to create a unique sound that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Career Highlights
Fiddler’s career spanned over four decades, during which he worked with many renowned artists such as Maxwell, Brand New Heavies, Raphael Saadiq, Slum Village, Carl Craig, and Moodyman. His involvement with the legendary band Parliament-Funkadelic as a backup keyboardist and vocalist from 1985 to 1996 significantly shaped his musical journey.
In 1990, he teamed up with his brother Bubz to release the album “With Respect”. Later, in 2004, he embarked on his solo career, releasing his debut album “Waltz of a Ghetto Fly”. His sophomore album, “Afro Strut”, followed two years later, with his third album “Inspiration Information” released in 2008.
His Influence on J Dilla
One of the most significant contributions of Fiddler was his mentorship to J Dilla, one of the most influential figures in hip-hop. Fiddler is credited with introducing Dilla to Q-Tip and Clinton in July 1994, a pivotal moment that catapulted Dilla’s career.
Remembering Amp Fiddler
The Instagram announcement further read:
“It would be impossible to encapsulate the gravity of his energy, global impact & contributions. His life’s work, legacy, & most importantly… his love… will far exceed his earthly presence. How blessed are we, to have experienced Amp Fiddler in this lifetime. A beautiful spirit and gift of light.”
The Music Industry Reacts
The news of Fiddler’s passing has sent shockwaves across the music industry, with many expressing their sorrow and sharing their memories of the Detroit Funk legend.
GoFundMe for Funeral Costs
A GoFundMe has been set up to cover the funeral costs. At the time of this writing, the donations have surpassed the initial target of $9,000, reflecting the enormous love and respect people have for Amp Fiddler.
Conclusion
As we remember Joseph ‘Amp’ Fiddler, his music continues to live on, embodying the spirit of Detroit Funk and his passion for music. His influence on the music industry will forever be remembered, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians. Rest in peace, Amp Fiddler. You’ll always be our beloved ambassador of Detroit Funk.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Dec 20, 2023 | Latest, Music News |
Image credit: Jamie Lamor Thompson / Shutterstock.com
Recognized globally for his exceptional talent as a music producer, Metro Boomin recently came into the limelight for a different reason. The city of St. Louis honored the 30-year-old super producer with a key to the city, a symbolic gesture of the highest esteem.
A Nod to His Roots
Metro Boomin, born Leland Wayne, was presented with the prestigious honor on a Thursday, a day that turned out to be full of surprises. The ceremony, held in the heart of the city, was attended by St. Louis mayor Tishaura O. Jones, who had a few unexpected announcements up her sleeve.
Leland Wayne Day
In an unexpected twist, Mayor Jones proclaimed that every December 14th henceforth would be celebrated as “Leland Wayne Day”. This gesture was not only a tribute to Metro Boomin’s contributions to the music industry but also a nod to his roots, a celebration of the city that shaped him.
A Tribute to His Late Mother
Yet, the accolades didn’t end there. Metro Boomin, known for his humility and grace, quickly dedicated his honor to his late mother, Leslie Joanne Wayne. In response, Mayor Jones made a second proclamation, marking the day as “Leslie Joanne Single Mothers and Caregivers Appreciation Day”. This heartfelt tribute to his late mother underscores Metro Boomin’s deep family values and his respect for single mothers and caregivers.
Career Highlights
Over the years, Metro Boomin has made a significant impact on the music industry. He has worked with some of the biggest names in the business, producing chart-topping hits and redefining the sound of modern hip-hop.
Grammy Nomination
His recent work includes the soundtrack to Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and the album Heroes & Villains. The latter earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album, a testament to his incredible talent.
Single Moms Are Superheroes
Beyond his musical endeavors, Metro Boomin has shown his philanthropic side. He recently partnered with the Steve and Marjorie Foundation to launch the Single Moms Are Superheroes initiative. This initiative aims to support single mothers, a cause close to Metro’s heart, as demonstrated by his tribute to his late mother.
In Conclusion
Metro Boomin‘s recent recognition by the city of St. Louis is a testament to his impact, not just in the music industry, but in his community as well. His tribute to his late mother and his commitment to supporting single mothers and caregivers show his deep-rooted values. As he continues to make waves in music, Metro Boomin remains grounded, never forgetting his roots or the people who shaped him.
Metro Boomin’s journey is a testament to the power of persistence and the impact one can make on their community. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists and a reminder of the importance of staying true to one’s roots.
by Laghe Andrews | Nov 2, 2023 | Latest, Music News |
Image credit: Jacob giampa / Shutterstock.com
The Canadian rapper and songwriter Drake has been caught in the act. This time, not for anything controversial, but for something his fans will surely be thrilled about – filming a new music video.
It was anything but an ordinary day for TikTok user Carolina Fraiha. While enjoying her dinner, she stumbled upon a sight that would make any Drake fan’s heart race. The artist was spotted filming atop the iconic Scotiabank Arena.
“I was just having dinner when I saw Drake filming up there. It was amazing!” – Carolina Fraiha
Speculations About The Track
Though the track for the music video remains undisclosed, fans have been speculating that it might be for “First Person Shooter”, one of the popular songs from his recent album, “For All The Dogs”.
Ever since his entrance into the music industry, Drake has shown a penchant for music videos. His videos often feature elaborate set designs, bold visual aesthetics, and a narrative that complements the song’s lyrics.
The Impact of the Music Video
Choosing the Scotiabank Arena for his latest music video is a symbolic choice for Drake. As a Toronto native, Drake’s connection to the city has always been a key theme in his music.
The music video is not only a promotional tool for the song but also a platform for Drake to express his creative vision. Fans eagerly anticipate the release of this new video.
In the world of music news, Drake’s new music video is one of the most awaited events. Whether it’s for “First Person Shooter” or another track from his latest album, one thing is certain – fans can’t wait to see what Drake has in store for them.
by Fabiola Noel | Oct 23, 2023 | Latest, Music News |
Photo by Samuel Ramos on Unsplash
When Salt-N-Pepa sat down with Will Smith for a chat on his podcast, Class of ‘88, a candid conversation about their boycott of the 1989 Grammys unfolded. This article delves into the duo’s reflections on their bold stance and its undeniable impact on their career and the music industry.
The Birth of Hip-Hop: A Golden Anniversary
In the podcast, Smith was curious about Salt-N-Pepa’s views on the evolution of hip-hop, which has recently celebrated its 50th year. He asked the duo if they could have ever predicted the genre’s meteoric rise in popularity.
Will Smith: “Could you ever have imagined hip-hop becoming what it is today?”
A Journey in a Male-Dominated Field
This prompted Salt-N-Pepa to recall their journey in the music industry, a field largely dominated by men. They reminisced about their decision to join the 1989 Grammys boycott, a bold move that was rare for women in the industry during that era.
The Grammys Boycott: A Risk Worth Taking
Pepa confessed to Smith that at the time of the boycott, they hadn’t won any awards despite their contribution to the music scene. The decision to boycott the Grammys brought with it a substantial risk.
Pepa: “As women, we didn’t win any awards at that time at all. And as a male-dominated field and taking a chance, we didn’t even know if the Grammys is going to say, ‘You know what? You went against us. You never gon’ be seen.’ But they listened.”
Salt, on the other hand, elaborated on the boycott’s significance for them and for the industry. She believed that their stand likely influenced the Grammys to televise their win in 1995.
Salt: “We had no idea that it would actually make an impact for change.”
Class of ’88: An Insightful Trip Down Memory Lane
On October 26, all eight episodes of Class of ’88, featuring conversations with various music icons, will be available on Amazon Music and Audible. Other guests on the podcast include Queen Latifah, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, Rakim, Fab 5 Freddy, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Chuck D, J.J. Fad, and DJ Red Alert.
The conversation between Salt-N-Pepa and Will Smith provides a rare glimpse into the challenges faced by women in the music industry. Their decision to boycott the 1989 Grammys marked a significant moment in their career and helped pave the way for future female artists.
As we continue to celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, it’s essential to honor the pioneers like Salt-N-Pepa who helped shape this genre and fought for equality in the industry. Despite the challenges they faced, their story serves as an inspiration for aspiring musicians worldwide.
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