Brian McKnight
On May 18th, the American Society of Composers, Authors & Publishers (ASCAP) presented a 575,000-signature petition in an effort to get reformed the federal laws from 1941 that regulate how songwriters license their works. The signatures come from artists including Monica, Brian McKnight, Omi (of “Cheerleader” fame), Nate Ruess of .Fun, Bon Jovi, Pat Benatar, as well as writers like MoZella (who co-wrote Miley Cyrus’ No.1 song “Wrecking Ball”) and Priscilla Renea (who’s written for Mariah Carey, Chris Brown, Rihanna and Demi Lovato).
In a statement, ASCAP President Paul Williams said, “We’re asking policymakers to stand with songwriters at a time when our future livelihoods and the future of American music are both in jeopardy. Streaming has vastly changed music listening habits but licensing laws haven’t kept up with the way people consume music today, so songwriters are struggling… We’re asking legislators to recognize that songwriters deserve laws which enable them to be paid fairly for the use of their music.”
Due to overwhelming fan demand, after quickly selling out Brooklyn’s Barclays Center for the May 20th and May 21st Bad Boy reunion concert, Puff Daddy has officially announced the first-ever Bad Boy Family Reunion Tour.
One of the most dominant hip-hop artists from the 80s, KRS ONE, is back in the forefront of the rap game. The legend just released a brand new music video that is loaded with battle lyrics, all aimed at MC Ren. Though we have tried to find out why KRS ONE & MC Ren are at odds we were unsuccessful. Whatever the reason for the ‘beef’ between both men, we are excited that KRS ONE is dropping bombs again. Watch, share and comment on the video.
On Friday, April 15, Ricky Walters, more popularly known as Slick Rick, was sworn in as a U.S. citizen in New York City.
Internationally acclaimed Hip Hop artist Stic of dead prez continues to expound on the meaning behind dead prez’ smash hit and philosophy “Bigger than Hip Hop” with the launch of his new record label, RBG FIT records, dedicated to establishing and curating a new genre of hip hop, which emphasizes healthy living, dubbed “Fit-Hop”.
Nkiru Books was the oldest African-American bookstore in Brooklyn, New York. Initially founded by Leothy Miller Owens in 1976, the bookstore was bought by Brooklyn MCs Talib Kweli and & Mos Def (now known as Yasiin Bey) in 1997. Thereafter it was operated as the Nkiru Center for Education and Culture, a nonprofit organization promoting literacy and multicultural awareness for people of color. In its last incarnation it was located at 732 Washington Avenue, but was regrettably closed in 2002.
