50 Cent Opens G-Unit Studios in Shreveport, LA (video)
Media mogul Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson is making a major investment in Shreveport, Louisiana. He’s launched G-Unit Studios there and plans to expand his influence beyond the studio by developing nightlife and collaborating with local politicians on other ventures. This move coincides with Louisiana’s existing Motion Picture Production Tax Credit program, which offers significant financial incentives for film productions in the state up to 40%. 50 Cent’s studio, along with the city’s Millennium Studios, position Shreveport to become a film industry hub, creating jobs and revitalizing the local economy.
Drake Makes “Push Ups” an Official Release with Streamers
Drake has released “Push Ups,” a track responding to Kendrick Lamar’s criticisms in “Like That.” The song also targets J. Cole, the Weeknd, Rick Ross, and Metro Boomin. Drake’s lyrics address Lamar’s status in the rap industry, mock his physical attributes, and critique his collaborations. He also responds to Cole’s ambivalent “7 Minute Drill” and Ross’s “Champagne Moments,” while criticizing the Weeknd’s departure from Toronto and his recent collaborations. Additionally, Drake briefly rebukes Metro Boomin for his involvement in the dispute.
Bad Boy Artist G. Dep Released from Prison after 13 years, Asking Diddy to Get Back in the Studio
After serving 13 years in a New York prison for a murder committed in 1993, Trevell Gerald Coleman, better known by his stage name G-Dep, was released recently, marking a poignant chapter in his life. A former protege of Sean “Diddy” Combs at Bad Boy Records, his return to society is not just about freedom; it’s about redemption and a second chance at his music career. G-Dep’s career was ascending during the late 1990s and early 2000s, highlighted by hits like “Special Delivery.” However, his promising career was overshadowed by a haunting secret … a crime from his youth.
SAG-AFTRA Wins Groundbreaking AI Protections for Artists in Record Label Agreement
SAG-AFTRA and major record labels reached a tentative agreement for a new contract covering singers and recording artists. This includes groundbreaking protections for artists regarding the use of artificial intelligence in music. The agreement was unanimously approved by the SAG-AFTRA leadership and will now be voted on by the members. If ratified, these AI protections would take effect immediately.
The Music Producers Guild announces Inspiration Award Winner: Emily Lazar
The Music Producers Guild, in association with Dolby & Mix with The Masters, are delighted to announce Grammy Award-winning, mastering engineer Emily Lazar as winner of the 2024 MPG Inspiration Award. This prestigious award, sponsored by Audio Note, is given to a professional who, in the opinion of the MPG Awards board of directors, is responsible for work that has significantly inspired others.
Frank Ski Announces New Project
“Incredible meeting with Sony Music Publishing’s Licensing & Sync Team in Los Angeles. I dreamt about having this meeting 4 years ago when I started this musical project! The Album “Climate Change” is the Soundtrack! Frank Ski Presents, Climate Change: The Album! My 1st single drops on Earth Day, THIS Monday, April 22nd!!! Full Album Drops Friday, April 26th!! @djclass.official @motohama_ @sonymusicpub @vydiaofficial”
Yung Joc and Nessa at the NAB Show
Yung Joc, Pio Ferro, Dan Seeman (Hubbard Radio) Nessa at NAB 2024
THROWBACK: Lisa Bonet’s Interview on Arsenio from 1992
Jermaine Dupri, Isaac Hayes III Talk Fast Cash Vs. Equity, Creators Getting Handled By Tech Corps
Jermaine Dupri and Isaac Hayes III emphasized the importance of equity over fast cash for black creators in the social media and tech industries. They noted that black individuals often drive the success of these platforms but typically do not receive appropriate compensation or equity, leading to missed opportunities for wealth creation.
They advocated for focusing on equity ownership in companies, like the social media platform Fanbase, as a strategy for building generational wealth. They highlighted how investments in tech startups could yield substantial returns, citing Fanbase’s growth from a $20 million to $160 million valuation. They stressed that understanding and investing in music publishing and tech equity can empower the black community by providing the means to raise capital and create lasting wealth.