Cash Cobain is speaking up about the artists who imitate his formula in its entirety. The rapper, known for inventing the sexy drill style, was with Onsite! During the weekend when he complained about the new trend. He acknowledged that it was okay for other artists to follow his style. However, Cobain shared that he takes exception to them imitating him without making changes.
Cash Cobain Speaks On Sexy Drill Formula
Cash Cobain was at Hot 97’s Summer Jam 2025, where he was billed to perform. Onsite! caught him for a quick interview about his music. The Bronx native obliged and shared his feelings about the sexy drill wave spreading across the nation. Cash Cobain revealed that he was apprehensive about the development because many artists simply copied his formula in their music.
He said, “I feel like when you do something, you’ve got to do it in your own way. I feel like a lot of people really try to just copy, not just the music, but like my whole formula, like being around a lot of girls.”Cobain pointed out that few, if any, artists made drill music with a lot of girls around them before him. “Now, everybody wants to do the same thing,” he said, adding, “It’s cool, but it’s not cool. Do your own thing.”I took drill, and I made sexy drill. I ain’t make drill, but I made sexy drill. I took drill and made it sexy.”
Cash Cobain Glad That Sexy Drill is Making Waves
Cash Cobain is not entirely against having other artists hop onto the sexy drill wave; he is just against them copying his formula. In a November interview with Mixmag last year, the Fisherrr rapper discussed why he creates sexy drill music.
“Drill music, but imagine it being about sex. Instead of [rapping] about killing each other, mine is about having a good time, having sex, meeting somebody you like, and saying to them in all so many words what you want to do to them. It’s a groove where you can dance and move your body,” he said.
Cobain revealed that he was glad several artists, including those he looked up to, like Playboi Carti and Drake, are warming up to it. Notably, Drake worked on the album art for the Play Cash Cobain album, as confirmed by Cobain’s Instagram post.
The Nobody artist also revealed that he never wanted to be a rapper and wants other artists to “shine and take the spotlight.” He said:”Rapping comes with a whole set of problems and responsibilities. I got in the door and made that bridge for everything else. Producing is my love. Being a creative, I just love making beats, and I can’t stop. I still want to be on top, but I want my other artists to shine and take the spotlight.”
Cobain added that he wants “everyone else to have the spotlight” while he oversees everything. However, he admitted that he wants to do all he can to become a star in the music scene.
Cash Cobain’s remarks about having his entire formula make sense. Hopefully, those imitating his entire style will start adding creative twists to their music.
#Clique, let us know what you think of Cash Cobain’s comments.
Every summer, fans get to decide which songs make it to the top of the scoreboard. These summer anthems reflect what resonates the most with fans. Summer is here again, and fans are already deciding which song wins the summer song of the year. As we kick off the first official day of summer on June 20, we’ve selected some of the top music contenders for this summer, with the help of Spotify, including some of the biggest names in hip-hop and R&B.
“Show Me Love”: WizTheMc, Bees & Honey and Tyla
Music has always been a significant feature of summertime, and Show Me Love is already showing great potential. The song offers a blend of electronic, Afrobeats, and R&B sounds, making it a suitable choice for BBQs and poolside fun.
“YA BABA”: DYSTINCT & French Montana
Some of the top summer songs for 2025 feature great musical and cultural diversity, and YA BABA is heavily represented in this space. Its international appeal is also undeniable as it has gathered momentum across Europe, the United States, and Africa.
Moroccan-Belgian singer DYSTINCT teamed up with Bronx-raised French Montana on this catchy, infectious bop that is winning hearts. It is no surprise that Spotify added this to 2025’s biggest summer hits.
“NUEVAYoL”: Bad Bunny
Summer without Bad Bunny’s NUEVAYoL isn’t complete, and the public agrees. Few playlists exist without this tune, which seamlessly blends trap, reggae, dancehall, hip-hop, and Latin rhythms.
The presence of reggaeton particularly makes NUEVAYoL sound like a love letter to New York’s Latin neighborhoods. As summer progresses, be on the lookout for this sound at bars, rooftop parties, and beach outings.
“NOKIA”: Drake
Drake combines melody, rap, and crooning in this song that reminds listeners of past delightful days. It’s the perfect soundtrack for the summer, especially on warm nights and late-night drives when moments become memories. It’s no surprise that it is among the top songs of summer 2025.
“Back to Friends”: sombr
Sombr gives us the pop sound that makes summer what it is in Back to Friends. Its vulnerable and emotional lyrics make it stand out amid summer’s line-up, even while fusing R&B, alt-pop, and hip-hop. Back to Friends‘ virality confirms what we already know; it is a top contender for the 2025 summer song.
“With You”: Davido ft. Omah Lay
Davido and Omah Lay combine smooth Afrobeat rhythms with heartfelt lyrics in With You. The song is already a favorite with the ever-increasing fans of the Afrobeats wave in the United States.
Moreover, it looks ready to clinch its place among the top summer songs of 2025. With You combines smooth Afrobeat rhythms with heartfelt lyrics, making it an ideal choice for romantic summer evenings.
“Shake It to the Max (FLY) Remix”: MOLIY, Silent Addy, Skillibeng & Shenseea
Shake It to the Max (FLY) Remix is a cross-cultural party bop delivered skillfully to make you dance and party. Ghanaian-American artist MOLIY collaborated with Jamaican stars Skillibeng and Shenseea to provide fans with a Caribbean energy experience.
For fans of dancehall, Shake It to the Max (FLY) Remix is the ultimate party jam for summer 2025. The song is perfect for summer nights at rooftops, clubs, and anywhere people are willing to bring peak summer energy.
“Running Around”: Ely Oaks
Running Around brings summer vibes with its funky and groovy beats. It’s the perfect song for when you’re on the move or active. Sung by Ely Oaks, a newcomer in the music scene, this high-speed garage and rave hit is set to overtake many summer songs.
“Dark Thoughts”: Lil Tecca
Dark Thoughts is not your typical upbeat affirmation song, but it is quietly becoming a favorite as summer approaches. Although introspective, Lil Tecca also delivers enough upbeat tempo that makes fans nod to its rhythm. Dark Thoughts has excellent potential, and it is exciting to see how far it will go this summer.
“Ordinary”: Alex Warren
Alex Warren’s Ordinary reminds us of summers when we were head over heels. The artist’s emotional vocals and R&B sound no doubt lend to the feeling. Listeners will definitely take several trips down memory lane as they listen to this summer song that feels made for intimate moments.
These top summer songs reflect a shift in taste to more diverse, fun, and emotionally rich songs. And while there is still time to crown a new tune as the official 2025 summer song, you are sure to find a song for every occasion in this selection.
#Clique, which of these summer tunes will you be bumping to? Let us know in the comments.
India Arie and her mother are exposing a deep family hurt perpetrated by her father. The singer opened up on Father’s Day, indicating that she had something to reveal. She shared a message from her mother, who revealed the childhood trauma she suffered at the hands of her father. India Arie’s mother, Joyce Simpson, said in her audio message that her husband, Ralph Simpson, also Arie’s father, raped her. However, she noted that the singer had survived and had done a great deal of work to overcome the trauma.
India Arie Shares Insight Into Abusive Relationship With Her Father
Image Source: India Arie/Instagram
On Father’s Day, India Arie did something that went against the grain when she chose to expose rather than celebrate her father. The Acoustic Soul artist posted on Instagram, sharing insight into her experience with him.
“I’m not posting this today to tell you that I’m struggling because I’m not. I’ve spent my entire adult life working through my issues with my father. I’ve come a long way,” she wrote, adding, “My mother, though, is coming to terms with her feelings, and we’re supporting each other in telling a deeply personal, shared, story. A family story.”
Arie directed followers to a Substack link in her bio, where they would find a voice recording of her mother. In the audio, which Onsite!obtained, her mother, Joyce Simpson, exposed the abuse the singer suffered from her father, Ralph Simpson. Joyce claimed she hid decades of abuse and claimed she and her daughter were working to overcome “the family curse.”
India Arie’s Mother Exposes Sexual Abuse By Father
“No Father’s Day for you, Ralph Simpson. A secret has a stench that can rot a family from the inside out and destroy future generations. The family curse stops here on this Father’s Day, June 15, 2025,” Joyce began. “I’ve kept this secret for over 45 years. My India Arie is a survivor.”
At this point, the matriarch ensured to clarify that she was not referring to Ralph Simpson of the Houston Rockets. She said India Arie’s father is Ralph Simpson, who played professional basketball for the American Basketball Association. He also played for the National Basketball Association from 1970 through 1980. Ralph Derek Simpson was one of the most popular NBA players in the 1970s. He was a five-time ABA All-Star from 1972 to 1976 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012.
Joyce said her ex-husband, India Arie’s father, was physically and sexually abusive, including to their daughter.
“You raped me, I stayed quiet. You molested your daughter when she was a very young child; I stayed quiet. I still allowed you to publicly be the father that you appeared to be and not the sick father that you are,” she revealed. “You, Ralph Simpson, there will be no Father’s Day cards for you or calls or texts from India,” Joyce declared against her ex who will be 76 this year.
India Arie’s Mother Says She is Fine Now
India Arie’s mother continued her story, recalling a well-known song her daughter had written. She sang the song, Get It Together, and revealed that the lyrics were a pointer to the abuse Arie suffered. Joyce added that she watched their daughter struggle for years because of the trauma her father inflicted.
“I watched India for years on the national and international stages before and after her concerts. I watched her cancel some of her tour dates because she needed to receive medical care. She just struggled. She struggled,” Joyce said, adding, “You, Ralph Simpson, gave her a lot to heal from.”
However, she claimed Arie, who still canceled a tour and some shows last year to prioritize her mental health and healing, was “good” now. She revealed that the singer stopped her from ending her ex-husband’s life, as Arie didn’t want to lose her. Meanwhile, Joyce revealed that India Arie’s father is currently experiencing a financial crisis. She divulged that he asked Arie for money and highlighted the abuse she and her daughter suffered.
Joyce Simpson Says The “Family Curse” Must End
India Arie’s mother was not done exposing all of Arie’s father’s atrocities. She accused him of stealing money from their son, J’On, after he worked all summer, bussing tables to buy a car. Meanwhile, Ralph Simpson simply gambled the money away. However, J’On forgave him and now pays his rent.
Joyce ended by saying she “would never” be able to forgive her ex-husband for the violent physical abuse she suffered from him. She said these episodes left her needing medical attention. She also promised to withhold forgiveness from him because of all he had done to their children. “The family curse stops here,” she concluded, even as she admitted to praying for him despite his shortcomings.
Fans and friends of India Arie are speaking out in support of the singer after her mother’s confessions. We hope the singer is okay and has fully healed, as her mother claimed.
#Clique, share your thoughts on India Arie’s revelations about her father in the comments.
Twenty-nine years after his death, Tupac‘s legacy endures, cementing his status as one of the most influential Black American figures in history. Tupac Amaru Shakur was and will always remain one of Black America’s finest. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential music artists and is remembered for his activism and advocacy. The rapper single-handedly transformed hip-hop from a party anthem to an activism tool with his lyrics and movies, which drew attention to the plight of Black people in America. Decades after he was gunned down on September 13, 1996, Tupac’s legacy lives on and continues to transform society. Here are 10 ways he shaped the culture:
1. An Icon Of Activism
Tupac’s legacy in activism can be traced to his mother, Afeni Shakur, who was a member of the Black Panther Party. Afeni renamed him from Lesane Crooks to Tupac Amaru Shakur when he was a year old. She named him after the Peruvian Indian revolutionary, Tupac Amaru II, and Tupac lived up to his name.
Tupac followed Amaru II’s steps to become a renowned political activist confronting several systemic issues. In songs like Brenda’s Got a Baby and Changes, he highlighted problems like teen pregnancy, poverty, police brutality, and systemic racism. This made him a voice for the unheard and heralded his work in social and political advocacy.
2. Shaping Hip-Hop And Encouraging Vulnerability
One of the testaments to Tupac Shakur’s legacy is his influence on emotional openness in hip-hop today. The rapper easily switched from hard-hitting lyrics and political commentary to introspective music in his tracks.
Songs like Dear Mama and So Many Tears highlighted his vulnerable side and gave his music depth that very few could achieve. Tupac’s rawness and emotional storytelling are evident in the music of rappers like Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, and J. Cole today.
3. Popularizing Gangsta Rap and Thug Life
Tupac Shakur was one of the leading voices of gangsta rap in the 90s. He helped shape the style and sound of the genre, as well as humanize it. Tupac blended hard-hitting street tales with poetic melodies and structure, coining a blueprint for those who would come after him. He also made it more aggressive, bold, political, and marketable.
Tupac’s legacy is also perpetuated by “Thug Life,” a philosophy that he coined and popularized. The term stands for “The Hate U Give Little Infants F*s Everybody.”
The phrase reflects issues of systemic oppression and the survival of marginalized communities and points to the struggles of Black people. It became a cultural mantra that has helped inspire social justice literature and movements.
4. Tupac Redefined Music Artistry
Tupac’s emergence in the music industry proved that rap music could be more than just entertainment. He blurred the line between hip-hop and activism and was a celebrated poet, philosopher, and revolutionary.
His revolutionary ideologies were evident in his music, and he helped awaken the social consciousness of hip-hop artists. Tupac’s introspective and intelligent music proved that rappers can be tender and freedom fighters. His influence is reflected in the protest anthems of Kendrick Lamar, Joey Bada$$, Killer Mike, Rapsody, and Denzel Curry.
5. Influence In Academia
Tupac’s legacy is also evident in academia. Academics regard him as one of the most influential musicians of his time, and his name comes up in classroom discussions. Several documentaries and scholarly articles have been made about him, and he is included in school curriculums and syllabi.
Tupac’s work has also provided material for professors and scholars who dissect his lyrics and poetic structure. Additionally, filmmakers draw inspiration from his life, making him a bridge between hip-hop, academia, and the media.
6. Global Credibility and Reach
One of the enduring testaments to Tupac’s legacy is the global influence his name continues to command. The rapper’s charisma and depth endeared him to fans worldwide. His music also bridged racial and national divides because of how relatable it was.
Today, Tupac is regarded as a freedom fighter and honored in several nations, including South Africa, France, Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, Nigeria, Kenya, Brazil, and Jamaica.
7. Inspiring Generations of Artists
Numerous rappers and hip-hop artists have paid homage to Tupac’s work. Meek Mill’s Trauma and Otherside of America, Lil Baby’s The Bigger Picture, Jay Rock’s Redemption, and Nipsey Hussle’s Face the World and Fountain of Youth all echo Tupac’s spirit.
Other artists, such as J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, Drake, and YG, have named the rapper as a foundational influence. Their works highlight the impact of Tupac’s legacy in shaping modern-day hip-hop, and his music continues to influence their lyrics and activism.
8. Posthumous Relevance
Tupac may be dead and long gone, but his work remains relevant to date. The many issues he confronted and addressed in his music and interviews remain, unfortunately, prevalent. Hence, many regard him as a prophet or as being ahead of his time with his attack on police brutality, social inequality, and racism.
9. Shaping Pop Culture
Tupac was also a cultural icon whose influence transcended music. He was a critically acclaimed actor whom many believed could have become a Hollywood A-lister had he lived longer. His work in Juice, Poetic Justice, Gridlock’d, and Above the Rim demonstrated his strong talent, range, and authenticity.
Tupac also significantly influenced pop culture, fashion, politics, and the global youth identity. He wore his bandanas tied to the front, a style that quickly gained popularity on the streets in the 1990s. His “Thug Life” tattoos, baggy jeans, Timberlands, nose rings, and gold chains have also now become symbols of his legacy.
10. Tupac’s Digital Resurrection
Tupac died decades ago at 25, but the world is not ready to move on. Thankfully, technology helps preserve the rapper’s memory. In 2012, Coachella organizers shocked the world with Tupac’s holographic performance. Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly also features a fictional interview between himself and Tupac.
Moreover, posthumous albums like The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory and Until the End of Time keep the rapper in the new generation’s faces.
Tupac Shakur was more than a music artist; he was and still is a movement today. His work brought attention to the plight of Black people and helped shape the next generation of hip-hop artists. He promised to raise those who would change the world, and he is doing just that even after his demise. #Clique, share your thoughts on Tupac Shakur’s legacy.
Get ready for some lyrical lessons from #LupeFiasco as he joins the faculty at Johns Hopkins University’s Peabody Institute in Fall 2025.
The Grammy Award-winning rapper announced the thrilling news on Instagram. He shared a snapshot of himself sporting a Johns Hopkins cap and announcing his new title as a Distinguished Visiting Professor.
“Thrilled to share that I’ll be joining the faculty at the prestigious Johns Hopkins University’s Peabody Institute in Fall 2025 as a Distinguished Visiting Professor, teaching Rap as part of the groundbreaking new 4-year Hip Hop Degree Program.”
Lupe has worked with both Yale and MIT in the past.
Chris Brown’s South Africa concert is set to take place in December 2024, and fans’ anticipation is over the roof. However, as the event dates draw closer, the singer is facing backlash from women’s rights activists in South Africa. Many have called for the concert’s cancellation, citing Brown’s violent past. Recall that the icon was embroiled in a controversy in 2009 when he assaulted his then-girlfriend, Rihanna. The activists are convinced that allowing a figure like Brown to perform will send a damaging message.
Activists Create Petition to Cancel Brown’s South Africa Concert
It is about two months to Chris Brown’s South Africa concert, and the countdown has already begun. However, while fans look forward to seeing the artist live, South African campaigners for women’s rights aren’t happy about the event. Recently, BBC reported that the activists created a petition to ban Brown from performing in the country. The petition came after the musician sold out tickets to the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg in less than two hours — the stadium is the largest in Africa, with over 94,000 seats.
Speaking to BBC, Sabina Walter, the executive director of Women for Change, expressed her frustration. She said:
“When I saw the news that Chris Brown was coming to South Africa, I was shocked and deeply disappointed.”
Walter explained that they started the petition to send a strong message. She said they made it clear they would not tolerate the celebration of individuals with a history of violence against women. She also noted that giving someone like Brown a platform in a country where gender-based violence was at its peak only sent a damaging message.
Walter revealed it simply meant that fame and power outweighed accountability. The activist also expressed her disappointment in the Department of Home Affairs’s decision to grant a “convicted abuser” a visa. Walter said the decision was “concerning and indicative of systematic failure.”
Fans Are Behind Chris Brown
Although the campaigners called for the concert’s cancellation, the singer’s fans stuck with him. Recently, Prof Mamokgethi Phakeng, former University of Cape Town vice-chancellor, took to social media to share her thoughts. In a post shared on X, she revealed she would attend the event. Phakeng shared that she stood against gender-based violence and condemned it. According to her, perpetrators should face the full might of the law without exceptions or leniency. However, Phakeng emphasized that Brown’s history and upcoming concert were not mutually exclusive.
She said suggesting that enjoying an artist’s concert meant aligning oneself with their past actions was intellectually dishonest. The professor added:
“Music is bigger than the individual.”
Ultimately, Phakeng argued that boycotting Brown’s concert would not end gender-based violence in South Africa. Similarly, many South Africans agree with Phakeng, as Walters has stated that she has even received threats because of the campaign. Nevertheless, she maintains that the criticism they are facing shows a deep disconnection in how society views violence against women. Meanwhile, Walters and other activists aren’t canceling the petition, which has gotten over 20,000 signatures.
#Clique, what do you think of the petition against Chris Brown’s South Africa concert? Do you think he should be allowed to perform? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section.
Drew Dixon has filed a lawsuit against Grammy-winning music executive Antonio “L.A.” Reid, reports Fox News. Dixon claims that he sexually assaulted her on two occasions in 2001 and hindered her career when she rejected his ongoing advances.
The lawsuit was filed on Wednesday in a New York federal court. Dixon, who worked under Reid’s leadership when he served as the chief executive of Arista Records, alleges that Reid not only reduced her budget but also sidelined artists once she declined his continued harassment. Dixon left Arista in 2002 and asserts that her promising career in the music industry was abruptly halted due to Reid’s actions.
“This litigation is not only about the horrific physical assaults that Ms. Dixon had to endure but it is also about the irreparable damage done to the rare and blossoming career of an extraordinary talent,”
the lawsuit said.
Dixon is seeking unspecified damages in her lawsuit against Reid. Dixon filed her lawsuit under New York state’s Adult Survivors Act, which was enacted last year. This law allows individuals who have experienced sexual abuse to sue within a one-year window, even if the original statute of limitations has expired. The deadline for filing under this act is November 24th.
In 2017, Reid stepped down as CEO of Epic Records following allegations of sexual harassment made by a former female assistant. Reid told The New York Times at the time,
“I’m proud of my track record promoting, supporting, and uplifting women at every company I’ve ever run. That notwithstanding, if I have ever said anything capable of being misinterpreted, I apologize unreservedly.”
Back in June, Californian rapper Blueface announced the birth of his record label Milf Music. He started the label with one artist Jaidyn Alexis, who is now fiancée. However, four months in he has revealed his mixed gender five artist lineup.
Originally when Blueface launched his record label he told XXL Mag,
“I’m only signing women with children. Your BD [baby daddy] is your only reference that I can use. If he don’t vouch for you, I ain’t f***ing with you. You don’t have to be a rapper. I just need to see star quality in you.”
Apparently, he has made executive revisions on who his label will sign. On Tuesday, October 31, 2023, Blueface uploaded a post on X, of his label’s roster. Artists who were named on the list were Jaidyn Alexis, Chrisean Rock, Lil Mabu, Jay Cinco, and lastly X.o Rico. This is only the beginning for Milf Music as Blueface is already creating conversations based around his strenuous controversial marketing schemes.
In the African-American community, Line Dances have become a pillar of the culture. It has united the community together with soulful music for generations.
Line Dancing has provided a sense of comfort and pride throughout time, originating overseas in Africa and the Caribbean and migrating west throughout the world with smooth footwork and swift dance moves.
Whether you are at a Graduation BBQ or an Anniversary party, when these tunes come on you have no choice but to get up and dance with your loved ones.
Cha Cha Slide
In the late 1990s, Willie Perry Jr, better known as DJ Casper, created the dance routine we all recognize today as the Cha Cha Slide for his nephew, David Wilson, who at the time was an aerobics instructor at Bally’s Total Fitness.
The song began to receive a lot of attention spreading to clubs and local hot hangout spots around town and then eventually spreading throughout the globe.
This song became as popular as it did because it was a tune that anyone of any age could vibe to. According to The Washington Post,
“I think it was widely embraced because everybody could dance to it”
says LaDonna Tittle, a veteran radio personality, who contributed to the success of spreading awareness of the soon-to-be worldwide gem.
Cupid Shuffle
Bryson Bernard, better known as Cupid, artist of the song Cupid Shuffle tells a source at Newsone, how he got the idea to create his hit song.
“I was a 19-year-old Blues singer touring with the SOS Band and Lenny Williams when I recorded the song,”
Cupid told Newsone.
“Everywhere we would go before we’d start the show, we’d get the crowd going with a line dance. I saw how the crowd was reacting and I wanted to create a modern-day line dance.”
In 2007, Cupid intentionally came up with a song and dance that he felt everybody in the dance community could come together and dance to. Little did he know that it would later be honored and recognized in the White House and honored by First Lady Michelle Obama for her Let’s Move campaign.
Wobble
A dance group from Atlanta, Georgia created one of the most influential line dances in the early 2000s. Wobble was created to bring people together to have fun and stay in shape.
Although this song is a part of the line dance family, it is well-known as an aerobics dance that is usually paired with hip-hop music.
This dance has become popular with videos of fitness groups, family gatherings, and other social group events circulating throughout social media platforms creating viral moments of the song.
