As the suffix hints, this is a new and revamped version of “Badman Lighter [Remix],” one of the standout cuts from the groundbreaking African Dreams, released in December 2022. This true meeting of minds united the Grammy-nominated Afrobeat ambassador/sociopolitical powerhouse Seun Kuti and arguably one of the greatest MCs alive today, legendary The Roots frontman/poet laureate Black Thought, over an electrifying synthesis of Afrobeat and hip-hop.
The empowering, socially conscious EP caused a worldwide stir, with significant radio and media support, millions of streams across all platforms, a coveted place on the FIFA 23 game soundtrack, and a dedicated billboard in Times Square, not to mention fulfilling its ultimate purpose: aligning with the powerful Kuti family mantra “music is the weapon” by engaging with and provoking reactions amongst Africans and the African diaspora.
Without a moment of respite, the pair have decided to reignite the flame, continuing the momentum with this release of the fiery “Badman Lighter 2.0,” inviting fellow progressive rapper/activist Vic Mensa to join them on the journey. Fresh off his revolutionary Black Star Line Festival in Ghana, Mensa delivers a scorching verse that serves as the cherry on top of an already formidable composition.
Alongside the incredible vocal performances, every musical element found in this high-energy production has been lifted from Seun Kuti’s critically acclaimed albumBlack Times, carefully spliced, and woven back together. The hybrid Afrobeat/hip-hop formula uses driving beats to tie together the very best of both worlds, from the iconic Egypt 80 horn section and signature call-and-response chorus to a classic saxophone solo that serves as the masterpiece’s finishing touch, underpinning its powerful messages.
So we ask, on March 10, 2023, who’s got the Badman Lighter?
“Badman Lighter 2.0” Primary Artists: Seun Kuti, Black Thought Featuring: Vic Mensa Producer: Molotov Writers/Authors: Seun Anikulapo Kuti, Tariq Trotter, Alex Jennings, Victor Kwesi Mensah Mixed & Mastered by Forest DLG for KMJ45 Genre: Hip-hop/Afrobeat Release Date: March 10, 2023 Digital Release Vic Mensa appears courtesy of Roc Nation Records
Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 2023 Tour 4/15 – Apollo Theater, New York (US) 5/23 – Pumpehuset, Copenhagen (Denmark) 5/25 – Afro-Pringsten Festival, Winterthur (Switzerland) 5/27 – World Village Festival, Suvilahti TBA, Helsinki (Finland) 5/28 – Les Petites Folies, Théâtre de Verdure, Lampaul-Plouarzel, (France) 6/23 – Nuits Carreers Festival, Esplanade Du Pré Des Pêcheurs, Antibes Juan-les-Pins (France) 6/30 – Arsenal Festival, Kragujevac (Serbia) 7/15 – Sherwood Festival, Park Nord Stadio Euganeo, Padua (Italy) 7/22 – Colours Of Ostrava, Ostrava – (Repubblica Ceca) 7/28 – Uppsala Reggae Festival, Uppsala (Sweden) 8/4 – Festivalle, Valle dei Templi, Agrigento (Italy) 8/10 – Locus Festival, Masseria Ferragnano, Locorotondo (Italy) 8/12 – Color Fest, Agriturismo Costantino, Lamezia Terme (Italy) 8/16 – Overjam Festival, Tolmin (Slovenia)
The WorldBaseballClassic is the ultimate collection of premier international baseball talent, so what better stage to unite the global impact that DaddyYankee has had as an artist to the worldwide reach of this premier international tournament. As a passionate baseball fan, DaddyYankee looks to use the unique opportunity that the tournament brings to help showcase and connect cultures that embrace the game of baseball.
As a culture creator, game changer, and groundbreaker, DaddyYankee has consistently inspired, impacted, and influenced generations of creators. An indisputable icon, he remains one of the most influential personalities of all time, bringing reggaeton worldwide for the first time. After changing the face of Latin music forever, he leaves on the highest note possible in 2022 with his twelfth full-length offering and final album, LEGENDADDY, brought to life with his farewell tour, LA ÚLTIMA VUELTA (The Last Round). “La Última Vuelta” wrapped as his biggest ever with $198M in grosssales. La ÚltimaVueltaWorldTour finished as the second-biggest tour by a Latin artist in Boxscore history over 88 shows in 2022.
As part of the special role in this year’s tournament, “Chispa,” produced by DaddyYankee and award-winning producing duo Play-N-Skilz, will serve as the World Baseball Classic anthem and be featured across WBC & MLB social platforms and content, in-park activations and presentations and throughout broadcast coverage of the WBC. DaddyYankee is also expected to attend several games played at loanDeportpark in Miami throughout the tournament, including throwing out the first pitch on SundayMarch 12 before the Venezuela vs. Puerto Rico game at 7:00 PM ET.
Play-N-Skillz, the Latin/American record production/DJ group duo consisting of brothers Juan “Play” Salinas and Oscar “Skillz” Salinas, produced “Chispa” with Daddy Yankee. Their production has won several Grammys including the Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2007 and the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album in 2008. The brothers act as creative directors at CTM Latin Music Publishing while also gaining a position of ownership in the company. In March of 2022 the duo produced and wrote 6 songs on the album “LEGENDADDY” the last album for Daddy Yankee which debut #1 in the world.
The World Baseball Classic is the premier international baseball tournament, sanctioned by the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC), as the sport’s official National Team World Championship, and features the best players in the world competing for their home countries and territories. More than 3.4 million fans from all over the world have attended the tournament games, held in March 2006, March 2009, March 2013 and March 2017. Team USA is the reigning World Baseball Classic Champion after beating runner-up Puerto Rico during its 2017 championship run, joining previous tournament champions Team Japan (2006 and 2009) and Team Dominican Republic (2013). The 2023 World Baseball Classic will again feature the world’s greatest baseball-playing countries and territories.
ABOUT DADDY YANKEE:
As a culture creator, game changer, agent of change, and groundbreaker, Daddy Yankee has consistently inspired, impacted, and influenced generations of creators. An indisputable icon, he remains one of the most influential artists of all time, bringing reggaeton worldwide for the first time. Latin music and culture would not look, sound, or feel the same without him. It’s hard to even imagine the genre itself without “Gasolina,” “Despacito” [with Luis Fonsi], or “Con Calma” [with Snow], and more.
Since 1995, he has consistently conquered charts, toppled records, and made history on his own terms. The magnitude of his accolades proves nearly impossible to match or exceed. Living up to the title of “King of Reggaeton,” he has moved north of 30 million records as “one of the best-selling Latin music artists of all-time.” Out of hundreds of awards, he has scored five Latin GRAMMY® Awards, two Billboard Music Awards, 14 Billboard Latin Music Awards, two Latin American Music Awards (including the Icon Award), eight Lo Nuestro Awards, an MTV VMA, and six ASCAP Awards in addition to earning a spot on the Puerto Rican Walk of Fame and the“Presencia Latina” at Harvard University. He also stands out as “the only Latin Artist with four Spanish-language entries on the Top 20 of the Billboard Hot 100.” He received “Songwriter of the Year” three times at the 2021 ASCAP Latin Music Awards and distinguished himself as “the first urban Latino artist to enter the Billboard Hall of Fame.”
Most importantly, he runs and leads his charity “Daddy’s House,” which Billboard commended with the Spirit of Hope Award.
After changing the face of Latin music forever, he leaves on the highest note possible in 2022 with his twelfth full-length offering and final album, LEGENDADDY, brought to life with his farewell tour, LA ÚLTIMA VUELTA (The Last Round). The album combines the essence of Reggaeton with salsa, dancehall, rap, trap bachata, EDM, and Caribbean music like never before.
Iconic School Exclusive Sneakers From the ‘90’s and ‘00s, Available March 25
Reviving four iconic hardwood sneakers worn by the nation’s top colleges throughout the ‘90s and ‘00s, the pack includes:
Question Mid ‘White/Green’ (ID6690, $170) – This coveted white/green iteration of Allen Iverson’s first signature shoe was worn throughout a dominant ’99 – ‘00 tournament run. (Full-family sizing. Available exclusively from Reebok.com, Foot Locker, and Champs Sports.)
Pump Omni Zone II ‘White/Blue’ (IG7891, $170) – This early ’90s version of Dee Brown’s historic Pump basketball shoe dons a classic southeastern color combo of blue and white. (Adult sizing. Available from Reebok.com and select retailers.)
Answer DMX (HR1061, $170) & Hurrikaze II (ID1529, $130) ‘Blue/Gold’ – These Cali blue/gold iterations of Allen Iverson’s Answer DMX and the bold Hurrikaze II were donned out west in the mid-late ‘90s. (Adult sizing. Available exclusively from Reebok.com and Foot Locker.
Reebok’s “Collegiate Pack” is available beginning March 25 from Reebok.com, with select styles available exclusively from Foot Locker and Champs Sports.
The RadRunner 1 is a unique bike that runs for $1,299 on Rad Power Bike’s website. This model is the very first e-bike to offers adjustable driver seats. What makes the RadRunner 1 stand out is its puncture-resistant tires. These tires are made from a layer of aramid and ceramic particles inside of the tire, under the tread. There is also a LED control panel, which makes it super easy to turn the vehicle on and off. This bike is unique and up to date.
A low step, fat tire electric bike that fits everyone. The bike has an integrated brake light, which lights up whenever the breaks are being used–making the RadRover Step-Thru 1 safe for nighttime biking. This e-bike includes front and rear fenders that help protect from the elements.
The perfect bike when loading up and needed to go somewhere. The RadWagon 4’s tires are smaller and wider, which create a smoother drive than other e-bikes. The rear rack holds up to 120 pounds, allowing for heavy-duty supplies transport or for kids to ride on the back.
Aventon stated that this e-bike is the “most powerful and versatile e-bike we’ve ever designed.” With the front suspension fork, fat tires, and great handling, Aventon promises a fun and comfortable ride.
A high-performance electric bike. Juiced Bikes offer various models that range from 55+ miles to 80+ miles. The CrossCurrent S2 and Crosscurrent X are fast and beautiful bikes that compare with each other in speed and distance.
Himiway bikes are fast, safe, and exciting. Focusing on the Moped-Style Electric Bike, this bike runs for $1,699 with 45+ miles per charge. Reviews state that it is “easy to assemble” “[Himiway offers] great customer service” and [it] “changes my lifestyle.”
A luxury, handmade bike. This bike ranges in price, costing up to $4,149. Each bike is handmade in one of their two facilities in California. When placing an order, it can take up to two months to receive it. This is a high-quality bike that offers a wonderful riding experience.
The KBO Breeze is the perfect e-bike for comfortable city cruising and commuting. If you’re looking for more adventure, the KBO Breeze can handle rough terrain as well, thanks to its front suspension and mechanical disc brake system. For young people and professionals on the go–whether you’re going into the office, picking up groceries, or just getting some exercise–the KBO Breeze is the perfect electric bike option.
GoTrax recently released their 2021 electric bike series, which includes the Emerge Electric Bike. Environmentally friendly and efficient, this bike is essential for active, ecologically conscious cyclists. This e-bike is especially designed with shorter, smaller riders in mind. GoTrax’s products are certified to UL safety standards.
The first ever foldable e-bike, Ducati’s MG-20 packs in portable convenience wherever you go. This versatility makes the MG-20 the ideal urban mobility e-bike. For commuters on the go, this e-bike– which travels up to 25mph– is ideal. A waterproof, 20-inch LCD display and included controller allows for cyclists to have total control. This luxurious e-bike will be on sale in July 2021 for $1902.
American motorcycle manufacturer Harley Davidson is now stepping into the world of electric bikes. The company’s new Serial 1 eBicycles series consists of four models: MOSH/CTY (“the ultimate urban play-bike”, designed for trend-setting adults in urban environments, includes pedal assist, $3,799), RUSH/CTY STEP-THRU (loaded with features and includes a step-thru frame, “an essential urban-commute feature for some riders”, $4,999), RUSH/CTY STEP-OVER (a premium vehicle for cosmopolitan e-bikers, “the sophisticated commuter”, $4,999), and the upcoming RUSH/CTY SPEED (provides electric assistance to allow speeds of up to 28mph, “the quickest way to navigate any city”, $5,599.)
Automaker BMW has recently forayed into the world of e-bikes with their Urban Hybrid E-Bike. This e-bike keeps with BMW’s typical 4 spoke pattern. The matte black bike model comes in three sixes, small, medium, and large. Equipped with Shimano 180 mm hydraulic disc brakes, the e-bike is able to handle rugged terrain with durability and stiffness. Technical features, such as the HMI display with integrated remote, allow for riders to stay up to date while on the go. The Urban Hybrid E-Bike retails for $2,330 on BMW’s website.
Sporty and sophisticated, Porsche’s e-bike promises to be the most stylish, luxurious ride around town. Unconventionally, the bike is designed with an upside-down suspension fork from MAGURA and FOX to provide the most balanced and smooth journey possible. This high-end e-bike is installed with Shimano’s color LED display, allowing cyclists to easily access information while riding. Reminiscent of driving in a Porsche car, the e-bike’s Continental Speed King tires make for a comfortable adventure, where ever the road takes you. The Porsche eBike sport retails for $10,700 HERE.
Ford’s new eBike carries on Henry Ford’s original vision while introducing new electric bike technology to the automaker’s arsenal. Designed for Pedego by world-renowned bicycle architect Tony Ellsworth, this ebike can reach speeds of up to 20mph with its 7-speed geared twist shifter and Schwalbe Big Ben tires. Interestingly, the bike’s adjustable handlebars can move up and down or in and out. The Pedego Ford Super Cruiser eBike is priced at $3,959 and can be purchased HERE.
SONDORS’ Metacycle is the newest, shiniest toy on the electric motorcycle market and could be the first largely affordable high-way capable model in the US. Wrapped in bespoke designed aluminum casing, this e-bike’s cast “exo-frame” looks both powerful and sleek. With an installed rear hub motor, this urban electric motorcycle is able to travel up to a fast and furious 80 mph for 80 miles. Other features of the revolutionary vehicle include hydraulic brake locks, adjustable suspensions, reverse gear, wireless charging, LED lighting, and a full color digital display. The Metacycle will be available in Q3 and retail for $5,000. While this electric motorcycle is pricier than other models, riders will know that every penny was well spent after their first exhilarating joy ride. For more information and to reserve your Metacycle, please visit SONDOR’s website.
Super73 provides unarguable e-bike excellence with their R-series, S-series, and Z-series models. The six available e-bikes– the Super73 ZI, the Super 73 ZX, and The Super 73 SI, the Super 72 S2, the Super 73 R, and the Super 73 RX–are all brawny, ferocious, and capable vehicles. All of these bikes have a throttle, powerful engine, and stylish design. Super73’s vehicles are all made from aluminum alloy or steel, so riders can rest assured that their e-bike is made to last. The bikes with the most longevity in the collection are the Super73 S2, R, and RX models– all of which have 960 watt-hour batteries. These three bikes are also installed with an aggressive 1200 watt nominal/ 2000 watt peak motor. Many Super73’s e-bikes equipped with Shimano speed shifters, hydraulic rotors, multiple pedal assist options, and Bluetooth connectivity smart displays. For more information regarding each individual e-bike model, visit Super73’s website.
Ridel’s best-selling, double-seat Snugger eBike packs in twice the fun and adventure of an ordinary eBike. Take friends, loved ones, and fellow adventurers along for the ride in this capable vehicle. The Snugger is equipped with a 750W 48V rear hub motor, so you can unleash your inner rebel on your joyride. Able to travel up to 28mph for up to 38 mi, your next expedition awaits. Travel further than ever before, with the vehicle’s 48V 15.6Ah removable battery. which charges in just 3-4 hours. This matte black bike has major curb appeal and is sure to be the start of the streets! Ridel’s Snugger is currently on sale for $1,999.00 and can be purchased on the company’s website.
Luxury car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz develops n+ bikes in Brackley, England. These e-bikes take inspiration from the premiere Mercedes-AMG Formula One car. The V-12 chassis contains an ultramodern aerodynamic design and won’t be found anywhere else. The Gates Carbon Belt drive allows for an oil-free chain and the hydraulic breaks provide quick suspension. A centrally located battery mount provides 50/50 weight distribution. Charge time is 3.5 hours with a 60-100 km range. The weight is only 37 pounds and is able to reach 20 mph. Prices vary from $1,990-$4,500 and can be broken up into monthly purchases using Splitit HERE.
Within a blink of an eye, some of our favorites became our foes. And the iron horse we dreamed of has actually manifested.
*Fat tire bikes are the most preferred for off-roading. Their oversized tires usually measure around 3.8 inches tall or larger. Their height allows for fat tire bikes to travel in dunes, snow, sand, and mud. These type of bikes are designed for low ground pressure to create the best riding experience in extreme climates.
The Himiway Escape was reimagined by 360 MAGAZINE. Affectionately nicknamed ‘Purple Haze’ after a few cosmetic updates alongside a custom bike bra, which was developed by Vaughn Lowery.
Dakota Johnson stars in a new film and imagery that revisit the emblematic handbag’s storied origins.
JlA longstanding mainstay within the House’s collections, ‘The Jackie’ experienced a well-chronicled rise to icon status—ever since its debut in 1961, the handbag’s perpetual presence on the arms of celebrated figures around the world crystallized its everlasting association with their signature sophistication.
Dakota Johnson finds herself at the latest inflection point of the line’s celebrated chronology in which a certain attitude encounters a certain era, marking the beginning of a new chapter through the House’s latest campaign. Johnson makes her way through everyday moments in Los Angeles with different versions of the Jackie 1961, each with its own personality, each perfectly paired to the occasion. The film and imagery, captured by Glen Luchford, pay homage to the style’s storied origins as spontaneous snapshots highlight the silhouette’s intrinsic versatility and enduring elegance, reflecting a state of co-existence that spans decades and personas.
The Jackie 1961
Following a distinguished line of reiterations, each emblematic of its time, today’s Jackie 1961 emerges to transcend the traditional with its sleek silhouette and universal attitude.
The selection is presented in three different sizes—mini, small, and medium—in a wide range of colors that highlights the design’s inherent versatility. Clean lines bring the focus to the unique piston closure, as well as the quality of the material itself, whether natural grain, patent, or precious leather, or the emblematic GG Supreme canvas. A longer, removable shoulder strap, either in leather or as a chain, enhances the Jackie 1961’s adaptable personality and practicality. Within each collection, the House introduces creative interpretations, including in woven raffia and straw, as well as with velvet tapestry patterns for Cruise 2023.
The original model introduced in 1961 became expressive of the 1960s and 1970s jetsetter lifestyle for which Gucci was known and new sensibilities were brought to the signature style in 1999 and 2009, drawing from a contemporary intuition and attitude and ever–assuming new characters that defy definition.
Founded in Florence, Italy in 1921, Gucci is one of the world’s leading luxury brands. Following the House’s centenary, Gucci forges ahead continuing to redefine fashion and luxury while celebrating creativity, Italian craftsmanship, and innovation.
Gucci is part of the global luxury group Kering, which manages renowned houses in fashion, leather goods, jewelry, and eyewear.
The Vanities exhibition reveals his work inspired by the Old Masters classical works of art history and his fascination for the figure of the smoker. His first year of study at KNUST, Joseph Hoggar, devoted it to the theme of the cigarette smoker, the tobacco roller, and the consequences of smoking on his own body: red eyes and black lips. His observations support his perception, widespread in Africa, that tobacco makes you impure. He included these marks in his compositions, and his first works attempted to represent the interior of smokers’ houses. Subsequently, his paintings were inspired by the still lifes of the old masters, loaded with symbolic objects similar to those of the Dutch Vanities.
There are objects of curiosities, lanterns, fruits, oranges, symbols of exoticism as it was perceived in the 16th and 17th centuries and skulls, symbols of death in all civilizations. This fascination for European Old Masters emanates as much from his university courses as from his personal research.
The Water Maid is an interpretation of The Milkmaid by Vermeer. The figure of the maid is pouring water from a glass container in a white ceramic bowl. Water in most cultures is symbolic of purification. On the table are placed other symbolic objects such as an empty wine glass, which symbolizes fragility and death; fruits, perishable foodstuffs, already wasted; bottled wine, a phallic image of one who lives a wasted life. Finally, the skull on the table is representative of the fatality of life. The two ends of butts in front of the skull put the final point of the representation of a woman in the service of a man, whom she deludes himself that he will be able to change his life for the better, when we have all the clues that he wastes his.
VANITIES exhibition by Joseph Kojo HOGGAR will take place from March 16 to April 8, 2023, opening on March 16 at 6 p.m. (registration required).
Collaborations don’t come much bigger than PNAU and Khalid’s heavyweight meet-up for their brand new single“The Hard Way.” The two artists share a combined total of over 70 million monthly listeners at Spotify, with a host of international #1 smashes to their credit, with their biggest moments including PNAU’s unmissable Elton John /Dua Lipa collab “Cold Heart” and Khalid’s “lovely” alongside Billie Eilish.
“The Hard Way” out via Sony Music Germany/RCA Records, instantly lives up to its billing. It’s a big scale contemporary pop at its finest, with PNAU’s sublime synthpop providing the towering melodies and a supremely confident hook that allows Khalid’s starry vocal majesty to shine. The two artists really lean into each other’s vibe to establish a depth of feeling, with Khalid’s lovelorn lyricism and sentimental emotions complemented by PNAU’s ability to evoke nostalgic ‘80s sonic elements within a modernistic production.
PNAU’s Nick Littlemore says, “We are so very excited to share this with you. Working with Khalid has been an absolute dream, we hope this song shall live in your hearts like it does ours. Big love, PNAU.“
Khalid adds, “It’s just awesome, it’s feel-good but then the lyrics have that melancholy, bittersweet thing about them. It’s that juxtaposition, that the lyrics are heartbreakingly sad but if you listen to the song you can’t help but smile. Those are my favourite songs, the ones that contradict. Just waiting for the world to hear it, they’re going to attach to it and just love it.”
PNAU are Australia’s biggest streaming exports, a multi-Platinum ARIA award-winning electronica trio with Nick Littlemore joined byPeter Mayes andSam Littlemore. Their career is rooted within Australia’s underground dance scene, but they possess a midas touch for a crossover dance hit which saw them achieve huge domestic success with “Go Bang” and “Chameleon” before delivering a global smash with “Cold Heart.” Now approaching 2 billionstreams, “Cold Heart” fired to #1 in the UK and saw PNAU reach the US Top 10 for the first time, resulting in award nominations at the BRITs, the Ivor Novellos, the Billboard Music Awards and the American Music Awards. PNAU have also remixed and/or collaborated with Diana Ross, Tame Impala and Lizzo, most recently teaming up with fellow Aussie superstar Troye Sivan for“You Know What I Need,” while simultaneously nurturing a new era of talent with their own record label, Lab 78.
Khalid is a multi-Platinum global superstar who has been heralded in the TIME100 list of The Most Influential People and as a “pop prodigy” by Rolling Stone. He has taken the world by storm since releasing his debut single “Location” while still a teenager, leading to two global hit albums in the shape of “American Teen” and the critically acclaimed Billboard #1 Free Spirit. He has collaborated with some of music’s biggest stars, achieving UK #1s with Benny Blanco and Halsey (“Eastside”), and Ed Sheeran (“Beautiful People”) as well as further UK Top 10 hits, both solo (“Talk”) and with Logic and Alessia Cara (“1-800-273-8255”), and Marshmello (“Silence”). In 2020, he was named the youngest artist to surpass 15 billion streams on Spotify alone and was named BMI’s Pop Songwriter of the Year. To date, Khalid has exceeded 30 billion streams, and has been nominated for seven Grammys, and won six Billboard Music Awards, three American Music Awards, a Teen Choice Award, an MTV Video Music Award, and an MTV Woodie Award. He was also honoured with the Key To The City in his hometown by The Mayor and Council of the City of El Paso. This summer, Khalid will be joining Ed Sheeran on his “+ – = ÷ x Tour” playing major stadiums in select cities across North America.
OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO SET TO PREMIERE 3/10 12PM EASTERN TIME (ET)
CERTIFIED HIT RECORD “DON’T PLAY WITH IT” AMASSES GLOBAL SUCCESS WITH OVER 77M+ WORLDWIDE STREAMS TO DATE
LOLA BROOKE GEARS UP INTERNATIONAL TOUR DATES VIA A BOOGIE WIT DA HOODIE ‘ME VS. MYSELF TOUR’
Rap superstar in-the-making Lola Brooke quells an eagerly awaited demand for new music with the release of her latest track, “So DISRESPECTFUL,” out now via Arista Records/Team Eighty Productions. The roaring, bass-heavy new music release from flourishing rap phenom is available on all music streaming platforms HERE.
Within the first seconds of the Reefa Music[Lola Brooke “Here I Come,” “Back To Business”] and Gyard [Lil Durk] produced track “So Disrespectful,” listeners are met with an intimidating, grim beat that encapsulates the presence of Lola’s ‘Big Gator’ energy. Lola floats over the base-knocking track on wax like the heavyweight champ she has proven to be in music and more. Her punchlines and adlibs taillies up more victories as she reminds you that she’s always ready for war and wins—it’s Gator Season.
Within the last year, Lola Brooke’s rise in music has soared to astronomical heights. Her single “Don’t Play With It,” still setting a tone as a breakout hit, has amassed 77M+ worldwide streams to date. The track has recently earned placements on flagship Hip Hop playlists like Spotify’s “RapCaviar,” Apple Music’s “Rap Life,” and Amazon Music’s “Rap Rotation.”
This past weekend, Lola concluded the North American leg of her first tour with A Boogie wit da Hoodie via the ‘Me vs. Myself Tour.’ Lola brought efforts home as she performed at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, in front of a sold-out show with over 19,000 concert-goers in attendance. The Brooklyn native took to social media to share her gratitude and fulfillment for the night via Instagram HERE. The night of celebration at Barclays also included a heavy-hitting preview performance of today’s latest release, “So DISRESPECTFUL,” which incited cheers and chills the moment Lola voiced the first line.
Moreover, on the touring and live-performance front, Lola will perform in Austin, TX, at SXSW on Billboard’s ‘The Stage at SXSW’ on March 16. For more information, visit HERE. Lola will also visit the U.K. in London, Manchester, and Birmingham later this month via A Boogie with da Hoodie’s ‘Me v. Myself Tour.’ Rounding up the first half of the year, as it stands, the 2023 artist to watch will be embarking on an entire string of festival show dates via Broccoli City Festival in Washington D.C, Openair Frauenfeld taking place in Switzerland, Wireless Festival in Finsbury, London & Roling Loud Germany, Rolling Loud Portugal and Rolling Loud Rotterdam.
This latest in strides for the one-to-watch artist Lola Brooke arrives on the heels of Lola being deemed ‘one of eleven artists set to make it big in 2023’ via Rolling Stone, ‘one of twenty rappers to watch in 2023’ via Complex along with several other artist to watch spotlight profiles from iHeart, Pop Sugar, Genius, HHDX and Vogue. In the same breath, for the month of February, the Bed-Stuy native held the title of Rookie of the Month for Billboard and BET Amplified Artist of the Month. Renowned footwear brand Timberland® last month unveiled their latest campaign with Lola celebrating the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop and the Original Timberland Boot, both formed in 1973. This past Sunday, Lola made with acting debut via the hit CBS series East New York for episode fourteen, ‘Family Tithes.’
More to come from The Face of New York, Lola Brooke, as she dominates in global success.
Kicking off what promises to be a momentous chapter,two-time GRAMMY® Award-winning multiplatinum artist Tori Kelly announces her return with “missin u,” a new single set for release on Friday, March 17, 2023. In addition, today she officially announces her signing to Epic Records. “missin u” marks the superstar’s debut for her new label home and stands as her first original solo release since 2020.
Produced by Jon Bellion, “missin u” sees Tori stepping fully into her brilliance, showcasing her evolution both artistically and personally. An ultra-modern take on R&B, her soaring vocals are instantly recognizable, stretching her range between slick verses and a fluttering chorus. The forthcoming accompanying visual perfectly showcase Tori’s evolution, taking her into a new terrain. The colorful and high-energy clip exuding charisma and confidence, fulling taking fans into Tori’s next era. Full of fun easter eggs, it proudly wears its influences on its sleeves.
“missinu” is just the beginning of the new Tori. She’s working on a whole lot more music for release very soon.
Tori Kelly consistently captivates with a powerhouse voice, eloquent songcraft, and vibrant spirit. Thus far, the California native has garnered two GRAMMY® Awards out of four nominations. Her catalog encompasses platinum-certified singles such as “Hollow” and “Should’ve Been Us” as well as gold-certified singles, including “I Was Made For Loving You” and “Nobody Love.” Her gold-certified 2015 full-length debut, Unbreakable Smile, bowed at #2 on the Billboard 200, paving the way for the GRAMMY® Award-winning Hiding Place [2018], Inspired by True Events [2019], and A Tori Kelly Christmas [2020]. Expanding her influence across media, she notably starred in the blockbuster animated series Sing and Sing 2 in addition to making appearances on Sesame Street¸ The Masked Singer, American Idol, Rugrats, and more. Beyond collaborations with everyone from Lecrae and Kirk Franklin to Chris Lane, Illenium, Jacob Collier, Jon Batiste, and Pink Sweat$, she teamed up with Justin Bieber for “Name” from his platinum-certified #1 blockbuster Justice. Signed to Epic Records, she embarks on her next chapter with new music in 2023.
Did you missTori Kelly? Well, she’s back – brighter, bigger, and better than ever.
WHO: Hosts Halle Bailey, Paul MescalandJulia Garner, and attendees including Aaron Holliday, Alexia Del Valle, Amelia Dimoldenberg, Anna Sitar, Anson Boon, Ashley Yi, Austin North, Bailee Madison, Beatrice Grannò, Benito Skinner, Billy Harris, Boman Martinez-Reid, Brianna LaPaglia, Brittany Broski, Brooke Ashley Hall, Caitlin Reilly, Cameron Monaghan, Challan Trishann, Chanté Adams, Charlie Hall, Charlotte Lawrence, Chloe Cherry, Chloe East, Chloe Rose Robertson, Cristian Dennis, Daniel Mac, Daphne Le, David Ma, DeWanda Wise, Dexter Darden, Drea Okeke, Dylan Brosnan, Emily Uribe, Emma Kenney, Francesca Farago, Gavin Casalegno, Gavin Leatherwood, GKAY, Hunter Doohan, Isabelle Kusman, Jack Innanen, Jack Martin, Jaicy Elliot, James Charles, James Henry, Jake Shane, Jaren Lewison, Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman, Jesse “Sulli” Sullivan, John Owen Lowe, Jonathan Daviss, Jordan Firstman, Josh ‘Bru’ Brubaker, Josh Otusanya, Josh Richards, Juju Green, Julia Schlaepfer, Kevin Alves, Kola Bokinni, Krys Marshall, Kukombo, Larray, Lauren Lyle, Lorraine Nicholson, Lukas Gage, Lukita Maxwell, Madeleine White, Madeline Brewer, Madison Bailey, Maggie Rogers, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Makayla Did, Manu Rios, Marco Hall, Marcus Scribner, Masani Musa, Matt Friend, Megan Cruz, Megan Stalter, Megan Suri, Michael Evans Behling, Michael Le, Michelle Randolph, Monet McMichael, Myles O’Neal, Nia Sioux, Niles Fitch, Noah Beck, Odeya Rush, Olivia Holt, Paris Brosnan, Pearl Thusi, Quincy Isaiah, Rachel Sennott, RAMIZEINN, Reece Feldman, Remi Bader, Samantha Hanratty, Shamier Anderson, Salem Mitchell, Sri Ramesh, Tefi Pessoa, Christina “Tinx” Najjar, Victoria Pedretti, Zaria, and more
WHAT: On Wednesday, March 8th, Vanity Fair and TikTok celebrated Vanities: A Night for Young Hollywood at Mes Amis in Hollywood. The private event–co-hosted by a committee of rising stars who have been featured in VF’s Vanities column–spotlighted the actors, musicians, artists, and #filmtok community that make up the new creative class.
VF’s Campaign Hollywood, which has become synonymous with Oscar week, celebrates the year’s exceptional performances, and honors the artists, storytellers, and innovators who are moving the culture forward. The season also coincides with the debut of Vanity Fair’s 29th annual Hollywood issue, featuring twelve of the year’s standout stars, photographed by Steven Klein.
Tequila Don Julio and Johnnie Walker are the exclusive tequila and whiskey sponsors, pouring at Vanity Fair’s Campaign Hollywood events throughout the week.
Muscular long-form journalism, stunning photography, insightful essays, and superb design make each issue of Vanity Fair a must-read. Every month, the magazine commissions the best writers and photographers to explain the pressing issues of the day and take the pulse of the culture. Vanity Fair consistently delivers crucial reporting on business and finance, domestic politics, and world affairs, even as it covers the very best in arts and entertainment.
About TikTok
TikTok is the leading destination for short-form mobile video. Our mission is to inspire creativity and bring joy. TikTok has global offices, including Los Angeles, New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, Jakarta, Seoul, and Tokyo. www.tiktok.com
