JAY-Z’s controversial ‘4:44’ goes platinum in six days, responds to Beyonce’s ‘Lemonade,’ disses Kanye and ruffles the rap industry
Rap mogul, Jay-Z is not only making news for the birth of his twins, but for his 13th album, “4:44” released June 30th through Roc Nation and July 7th on iTunes/Apple Music, Goggle Play, and Amazon Music. Assuming half of the world has heard the album or heard the drama surrounding it, to say the album is controversial is to say the least. Jay-Z has become a huge media topic. According to eurweb.com, “4:44” has been certified platinum by the RIAA, based solely on Tidal streaming and Sprint downloads alone, and less than six days after it dropped on its premiered date. The news was delivered Wednesday morning, July 5th by both the RIAA and Jay’s label, Roc Nation. “Props to JAY, he’s done it again! Another Platinum album adds to an already iconic career,” RIAA ceo Cary Sherman said in a statement. According to Roc Nation, all 13 of Hov’s studio albums have gone platinum, more than any other rap artist — as well as four other platinum albums in collaboration with Kanye West, Linkin Park, and R. Kelly.” The album not only introduces thought provoking lyrics, but responds to the accusation of whether he cheated on Beyonce in “Lemonade on track “4:44,” and why he dissed Kanye in song “Kill Jay Z”. While his album has received much success, on the flipside the rap icon’s peers have given the album mixed reviews, 50 Cent stated on Instagram in a ramble of curse words that Jay-Z’s music is too smart for this generation, that is sounds like golf course music and you can’t be considered the best rapper at 47 years old. Similar to 50 Cent, numerous rappers are in a frenzy and they’re not happy with the “4:44” rapper. It is reported that Blu Ivy has joined her father on bonus track of “4:44.” There will be more news to follow, considering the hype surrounding the story.
RCA Inspiration and Provident Music Group Announce Relaunch of Iconic Label, Verity Records
RCA Inspiration and Provident Music Group celebrate the relaunch of Verity Records, reviving the iconic label that has been a modern standard-bearer in Gospel for almost two decades! Reintroducing Verity kicked off by the newly-launched single “Close” from Gospel icon Marvin Sapp, excitement is buzzing high among artists, the industry, and fans about the return of the beloved brand. Verity Records will be operated under Provident Music Group. Continuing to shine a spotlight on the timeless inspirational music that’s impacted countless-millions worldwide, Verity is home to a vast catalog that shaped a signature legacy in the Gospel landscape, featuring a history-making slate of releases from contemporary superstars and pioneering acts such as Marvin Sapp, Fred Hammond, Yolanda Adams, John P. Kee, Vickie Winans, Richard Smallwood, Kirk Franklin, among others from the 1990’s to 2013. Highlighting this prolific trove of music, Verity is sparking ongoing inspiration for longtime fans and new generations, driving discovery and appreciation through new music, legacy performances, curated playlists, merchandise, special collections, and more! Marvin Sapp’s single “Close”, gives a taste of more new music to come, from one of Gospel’s biggest global leaders. Quickly becoming a new hit, “Close” makes a powerful influence on the charts, rising at radio, ranking in the Top 5 among Gospel Indicator charts of Most Added and Most Increased Plays for the song. “Close” is the lead single from Sapp’s highly-anticipated upcoming 11th solo album CLOSE, to be released on September 29th. Terry Hemmings (Provident Music Group CEO) says: “We are pleased to relaunch Verity, a brand that has been an integral part of forging the sounds of Gospel Music today. The Verity Label represents a rich history of cherished albums encompassing contemporary and classic hits that can be enjoyed time and again. Uplifting entertainment is more important now than ever, inspiring all of us-no matter what path we may be on. We look forward to sharing this new chapter of Verity with all of you!” Phil Thornton (Verity and RCA Inspiration SVP & General Manager) says: “There is so much incredible music to experience, and amazing new Gospel and inspirational music to come from Verity. Every record has a story to tell. Whether you’re introduced to ‘Close’ for the first time or re-discovering past works, these records weave distinctive tales serving as a continual source of hope and love, to discover strength and hold faith through tough times, celebrate joyful times, and be a constant companion for all the complexities of our daily lives.” For more information about Verity Records, visit: www.VerityRecords.com and https://www.facebook.com/VerityGospel/ Twitter / Instagram: @VerityGospel
Grammy-Winning Artist and Producer Raphel Saadiq Headlines Afropunk Brooklyn with projects from Solange, ‘Insecure, ‘Underground’ and ‘Luke Cage’Raphael Saadiq will return to the stage this summer as the headliner at Afropunk Festival on Sunday, August 27, taking place at Commodore Barry Park in Brooklyn, NY. The show will be his first major U.S. performance in over 5 years. “Looking forward to playing at Afropunk,” notes Saadiq. “I’ve never played in Brooklyn, It’s the most diverse crowd with the biggest spirit. I can’t wait to take the stage, Hands up, Voices Loud.” Saadiq’s festival appearance follows high profile projects over the last year from the constantly busy Grammy Award-winning musician and producer. Despite his hiatus from the music scene, Saadiq executive produced Solange’s critically lauded album, “A Seat at the Table” ( Grammy award winning track “Cranes In The Sky”). He also appears on Rick Ross’ recent single “Apple of My Eye,” which he co-wrote. Saadiq is the composer for HBO’s hit series, “Insecure” and “Underground,” and appeared on the premiere episode of Netflix’s “Luke Cage” as a performer at Cottonmouth’s club, Harlem’s Paradise. For the last two decades, Saadiq has also worked behind the scenes as a celebrated producer and song writer for major artists including D’Angelo (Grammy-winner for “How Does It Feel”), John Legend, Miguel, The Roots, A Tribe Called Quest, Stevie Wonder, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, The Isley Brothers, TLC, Whitney Houston, the Bee Gees, Joss Stone, and so many more A-list artists. Raphael Saadiq has released critically acclaimed solo albums including his five-time Grammy-nominated debut album “Instant Vintage” (2002) and “Ray Ray” (2004). His first foray into the international music scene came as a teenager when he performed as part of Sheila E.’s backing band and toured with Prince. Many may recall Saadiq as one of the founding members of the multiplatinum-selling group Tony! Toni! Toné!. Look for much more from Raphael Saadiq over the next few months. http://www.raphaelsaadiqofficial.comhttps://www.facebook.com/raphaelsaadiq
