MicDrop 5

Weekly Flow: Inside Hip-Hop's Evolving Echo

November 13, 2023

Triumphant Sampling: How Tribe Called Quest and Wu-Tang Clan Revolutionised Sample-Based Music

On the 30th anniversary of A Tribe Called Quest's "Midnight Marauders" and Wu-Tang Clan's "Enter the Wu-Tang," theGrio explores how these albums helped validate sample-based music and the skill involved in creating new songs using samples.

These albums pushed the boundaries of sampling, inspiring generations of rappers and producers.

Sampling is an art form that requires skill, and it is time to recognise its validity in the music industry.

Black Thought's 'Love Letter To Hip-Hop' Earns Grammy Nomination in Best Rap Song Category

Black Thought's "Love Letter To Hip-Hop" has been nominated for a Grammy in the "Best Rap Song" category. The song, released in honour of Hip-Hop's 50th anniversary, pays tribute to legendary figures in the genre.

Other nominees in the category include Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and Nicki Minaj. Black Thought, who has previously won Grammy Awards, is also set to release a memoir titled "The Upcycled Self".

Drill Music Under Fire: Met Police's Controversial Crackdown on Popular Genre

London's Metropolitan Police have a team dedicated to monitoring and removing drill music, which is popular among young people.

The police argue that the genre can be harmful and incite violence, and have made hundreds of removal requests to YouTube.

However, critics argue that the police's focus on drill music is unfair and may hinder the career prospects of aspiring artists.

They also question whether race plays a part in the clampdown on the genre, as there is a history of authorities targeting predominantly Black genres of music.

The Golden Age of Hip Hop Cinema: The 19 Greatest Movies from the '90s

The article highlights the 19 greatest hip hop movies from the 1990s, showcasing their impact on both the film industry and hip hop culture.

These movies tackled important topics such as gang violence, drug addiction, and racism, while also featuring iconic soundtracks and performances from legendary actors and rappers.

From "Boyz n the Hood" to "House Party," these films left a lasting impact on pop culture and continue to be referenced in hip hop today.

Little Simz's Monumental Performance at Alexandra Palace Proves She's a True British Talent

Little Simz delivered a triumphant performance at London's Alexandra Palace, showcasing her incredible talent and taking the crowd on a journey of self-discovery.

With her diverse music styles and powerful lyrics, Simz proved why she is a special British talent, leaving no doubt that she belongs on the stage.

Lauryn Hill Unapologetically Owns Her Concert Tardiness: 'Y'all Lucky I Make It on Stage!'

Lauryn Hill has defended her habit of starting her concerts late, telling fans at a recent show in Los Angeles, "Y'all lucky I make it on this stage every night!"

The singer-songwriter is currently on tour to celebrate the 25th anniversary of her debut album, "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill."

She also praised her mother, who helped raise her children while she pursued her music career.

The concert also saw a reunion of the Fugees, the hip-hop trio she formed in the 1990s.

Classic vs. Modern: The Never-Ending Battle for Hip-Hop Supremacy

The debate over whether classic hip-hop or modern hip-hop is better continues to ignite discussions.

Classic hip-hop, which emerged in the mid-1970s and includes artists like Tupac and Notorious B.I.G. from the 90s

Hip hop is praised for its compelling lyrics and raw sound. On the other hand, modern hip-hop, with artists like Travis Scott and Lil Yachty, is lauded for its experimentation with sound and diverse range of beats.

Ultimately, opinions vary on which era is superior, but both have unique elements that make them amazing.

Wu-Tang Clan's RZA Reveals the Surprising Inspiration Behind A$AP Rocky and Rihanna's Baby Name

Hip-hop innovator RZA of Wu-Tang Clan revealed that A$AP Rocky and Rihanna named their son after him as a sign of respect.

RZA kept the name a secret to protect the couple's privacy but expressed his honour and hopes that the name will guide their child through life, just as it has helped him.

He also discussed the enduring impact of Wu-Tang Clan and the recent celebration of Wu Tang Day.

View Source

Jay Rock Squashes TDE 'Breakup' Rumours, Confirms Strong Family Bond

Jay Rock has addressed the rumours of a breakup within Top Dog Entertainment (TDE), setting the record straight and confirming that the TDE family is "all good."

He also reiterated his strong bond with Kendrick Lamar, stating that their relationship remains unchanged.

The rumors began circulating after Kendrick Lamar announced his departure from TDE in 2021.

View Source

Rapper Danny Brown Breaks Silence on Rock Bottom and Overcoming Addiction

Danny Brown, explains how he reached rock bottom with addiction and depression before eventually beating his addition.

Brown tells his story from his new home in the suburbs of Austin, Texas, where he currently lives with his partner.

Despite his past troubles, Brown has been focusing on his new album and embracing his new life.