arrests made 💪🏽 we need justice for Pop
hip hop's new daily operation | 7.9.20
Photo: Call Me Kev Art: Hattas Public Murals
TheMotto No. 64 is here. And just as I was checking out Complex’s new cover story on Pop Smoke, TMZ broke the news that five people were arrested in connection with his Feb 19 violent death. ‘Bout damn time.
We demand justice for Pop. It’s tough to get through a full listen of Shoot For The Stars Aim For The Moon without feeling an immense sense of loss. A reminder that Pop Smoke was twenty years old. This young man — Bashar Jackson — is not here to experience his artistic triumph.
Too many hip-hop murders, from Tupac Shakur to Biggie to Jam Master Jay, remain unsolved. It angers me. Those responsible should be held accountable. I’m hoping justice is served. And that Pop’s family and friends get some kind of closure.
top billin’:
mood⤵️
watch out, now:
Tiny Desk was transformed to West Coast Customs’ garage when Roddy Ricch broke out the keyboard and (backed by his 1500 or Nothin’ band) ran through a few joints from Please Excuse Me For Being Antisocial. Nice surprise appearance by Ty Dolla Sign (on guitar) for “Bacc Seat.”
⬇️ I make coke rap sound like a new invention.
Over a thumping and sinister background, Benny reminds the world that while he’s been on a three year run, and got a label deal for his crew, he himself remains unsigned ⬇️
Dreamville’s Lute reps Charlotte to the fullest and shares a personal song about his daughter, and staying mentally strong. Good one, Gold Mouf ⬇️
You just gotta make sure your circle tight | And they’re working right | That’s the key to win. Highbridge’s Don Q steps back out on his own, sharp as ever. And his new Lambo’s pretty appealing, too.
you must learn:
The Political Education Of Killer Mike 🎓 author: Donovan X. Ramsey / GQ
The Harsh Reality Of Being A Teenage Rapper In 2020 🎙author: Trey Alston / Complex
A Brief Guide To The Endless Hip-Hop Samples Of Ennio Morricone 🎶 author: Zach Schonfeld / Spin
made you look:
Saweetie enjoys the view 💦⤵️
Gunna stays drippy ⤵️
Tyler gets his social distancing on with friends. (OGTHH) ⬇️
turn it up:
Tried to copy my style | But wasn’t ready | I’m at the crib | Rackin’ up plaques | And building Chevys. Wiz Khalifa is back in his underground bag and wisely connects with producer Statik Selektah. Wiz’s mixtape, Big Pimpin’ is on the way.
what more can I say:
In 2015, my wife Danyel wrote a great piece on the NBA’s greatest sixth man, Jamal Crawford — it was for our HRDCVR project. Jamal has always been a favorite of the Wilsons — from way back to his days with the New York Knicks — and we’re excited to hear that he’s headed to the bubble in Orlando. Pass that man the rock and let him shoot! Good move, Brooklyn Nets.
@elliottwilson tweets | @elliottwilson IG | follow HRDlist
a danyelliott production
Danyel Smith + Elliott Wilson