In a star-studded twist, the campaign showcases uncanny doubles of Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, and Kylie Jenner, making you do a double-take.
On May 20th, the fashion designer showcased a clip of the models, with the caption reading: “100% certified authentic.”
The Ricco bags range from $850 to $1,050.
According to Wang, the brand “wanted to play with the idea of deepfakes, exploring the multiple realities within the digital landscape.”
He said, “Imitation is the best form of flattery, after all.”
The post Alexander Wang Uses Celebrity Look-A-Likes For New Ricco Bag Campaign appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>
When speaking with Vogue’s “The Run-Through,” the hairstylist revealed that Blue is often her toughest critic when it comes to her social media posts. Mama Tina has become an Instagram influencer of sorts, sharing several posts, jokes and lengthy messages in defense of her children. According to Knowles, Blue sometimes calls her phone to give her a pep talk.
“She’ll say ‘Grandma, that was really wack what you just did. That’s really wack. You should delete that,’” Mama Tina recounted. She laughed it off and stated she rarely takes the young performer’s advice.
Days ago, Tina spoke out in support of Kelly Rowland, who was harassed during the Cannes Film Festival by a white security guard. After Rowland emotionally recounted the experience, Tina jumped to her defense online in an IG post, writing in part, “One silly monkey, don’t stop no-show!!!”
However, some posts have gotten Miss Tina in hot water. Fans believed she was shading Janet Jackson in January after Tina liked an Instagram post that compared Jackson’s ticket prices to Beyonce’s. She clarified that she was in no way throwing a dig at the legendary singer. Tina said she simply hit the like button accidentally.
Clearly, Blue Ivy pays close attention to her grandmother’s online behavior for a reason.
The post Tina Knowles Admits Blue Ivy Carter Sometimes Checks Her Over Instagram Activity: “Grandma That Was Really Wack” [Video] appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>As one-half of the influential hip-hop duo OutKast, alongside Big Boi, André played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Southern hip-hop, particularly with the release of their critically acclaimed debut album “Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik” in 1994, spawning their hit track, “Player’s Ball.” This earned them the 1995 Source Award for Best New Group, which was met with boos from the crowd. Luckily, this did not sway them.
Their second studio album, “ATLiens,” arrived in 1996 and helped showcase their unique blend of funk, jazz, and futuristic beats, once setting them apart from their peers. Their third album, “Aquemini” followed, leading to the duo’s 2000 project, “Stankonia,” which further cemented their legacy, featuring hits like “Ms. Jackson” and “B.O.B. (Bombs Over Baghdad).”
Three stacks branched out on several solo ventures. The group’s 2003 double album, “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below,” showcased each one’s individual capabilities. André’s “The Love Below” included the chart-topping single “Hey Ya!” which won a Grammy for Best Urban/Alternative Performance. Ironically, that was his final solo album, though he granted features on songs such as Drake’s “The Real Her,” UGK’s “International Players Anthem,” Beyonce’s “Party,” and many others.
André finally unveiled his debut solo album, “New Blue Sun,” in 2023, though it wasn’t the rap album fans were hoping for. Nevertheless, the artistry of the instrumental compilation is still widely respected. As he enters a new level, let’s take a look back at some of our favorite André 3000 on his 49th birthday.
The post André 3000 May Not Return To Rap But He Gave Us Classics That’ll Stand The Test Of Time appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>Mo’Nique (2003, 2004, 2007)
If we’re going to talk about iconic hosts, we have to mention comedian Mo’Nique. Her time as the host of the BET Awards was nothing short of legendary. With her bold personality and sense of humor, Mo’Nique was a delight to watch on stage. One of her most memorable moments was in 2004 when she performed a rendition of Beyoncé’s “Crazy in Love,” accompanied by a group of plus-size background dancers to promote inclusivity and showcase her ability to capture the audience’s attention.
Mo’Nique’s talent for mixing comedy with heartfelt tributes set her apart from other hosts. Whether cracking jokes or paying homage to industry legends, her hosting style was always genuine and impactful.
Jamie Foxx (2009, 2018)
Jamie Foxx hosted the 2009 BET Awards, bringing his talents in acting, singing, and comedy. Foxx was the perfect choice as the world was mourning the death of Michael Jackson, who had passed away just days before the event. Foxx recognized the grief everyone was feeling and delivered an entertaining and memorable tribute to the King of Pop. His performance highlighted Michael Jackson’s legacy and reminded us of his impact on the world. Years later, Foxx hosted again and delivered a special tribute to iconic singer Anita Baker.
Queen Latifah (2010)
When Queen Latifah hosted the 2010 BET Awards, she brought a different type of energy. As a true trailblazer in the industry, Latifah’s hosting felt effortless. Throughout the night, she delivered inspiring monologues, engaged in jokes with the audience, sang a tribute to the night’s honorees, reflected on her past looks and roles, and reminded the crowd that she still knows how to rock the mic with her rapping skills. Queen Latifah’s hosting was one for the books and will go down in BET history.
Regina Hall (2019)
Regina Hall’s ability to blend humor with charm is unmatched. At the 2019 BET Awards, Hall dominated the stage from the moment she stepped on it. During the opening performance, she paid homage to her hometown of Washington D.C., setting the tone for the night. The musical break featured a marching band similar to Beyoncé’s “Homecoming” performance, supporting #DontMuteDC, a campaign against gentrification. Hall’s comedic timing and punchlines kept the audience laughing throughout the ceremony. By the end of the show, she had not only entertained the crowd but left an indelible mark on the BET Awards.
Taraji P. Henson (2021, 2022)
Known for her versatile performances in film, Taraji P. Henson added laughter and authenticity to the stage in 2022. Despite teleprompter slip-ups and awkward moments, Henson powered through her second year as host. She made a grand entrance in a gold dress to complement the event’s Black Excellence theme. Additionally, Henson addressed the overturning of Roe v. Wade, criticizing the Supreme Court’s decision in an unapologetic way.
As we prepare for the arrival of the 2024 BET Awards, the legacy of these hosts has undoubtedly set the bar high for anyone following in their footsteps. Each host brought their unique style to the stage, creating unforgettable memories that have become part of the network’s history. With anticipation building, we eagerly await the reveal of BET’s next host.
The post The Most Memorable Hosts Of The BET Awards appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>On Wednesday, Apple Music unveiled the list, which included Lauryn Hill’s “Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” at number one. Drake, Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, and The Beatles were just a handful of acts recognized on the list. Unfortunately, despite Keys’ illustrious career and iconic music catalog, the streaming platform did not include any of her work.
The singer took to Instagram on Friday, standing in front of her decorated trophy case as she unboxed her 16th Grammy for Best Immersive Audio Album for the re-release of her sophomore album, “The Diary of Alicia Keys.” While it’s unlikely Keys was trying to be shady towards Apple, her fans praised her for the many recognitions she has received, which also include a host of MTV Video Music Awards and more.
In addition to her nine studio albums, Keys has also released eight live albums. Though Apple Music might not count Alicia Keys’ albums as some of the greatest, they have certainly spawned many of our favorite songs, which have remained staples on our playlists and in our hearts.
Fallin (from “Songs In A Minor”)
If I Ain’t Got You (from “The Diary of Alicia Keys”)
No One (from “As I Am”)
Unthinkable (from “The Element of Freedom”)
Fire We Make feat. Maxwell (from “Fire We Make”)
Pawn It All (from “Here”)
So Done (from “Alicia”)
Best Of Me (from “Keys”)
Come For Me feat. Khalid & Lucky Daye (from “Keys II”)
The post Alicia Keys May Not Have Made The Apple List, But She Has Remained An Icon appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>
Nevertheless, with the rise of TikTok, these mixed tracks have become a popular spin on some of our favorite tunes. Social media is a hub for these unique combinations. Whether for casual listening or dance floor energy, these flawless blends exemplify the limitless possibilities of digital music production and, in some instances, have even replaced the original tracks in popularity. Here are a few of our favorite ones that have hit the internet.
Cater 2 Texas Hold ‘Em by Manual Mashups
Songs: Destiny’s Child – “Cater 2 U
Beyoncé – “Texas Hold ‘Em”
WY@ x Get Up On It by OJ THE DJ MASHUP
Songs: Brent Faiyaz – “WY@”
Keith Sweat feat. Kutt Klose “Get Up On It”
Right & a Wrong Way x Fukumean by JP ON THA BEAT
Songs: Keith Sweat – “Right & a Wrong Way”
Gunna – “Fukumean”
Jodeci “Cry For You” – “Fukumean”
Fortunate Carriages (“Fortunate” x “16 Carriages”) by JayBeatz
Songs: Maxwell – “Fortunate”
Beyoncé – “16 Carriages”
Turn Yo Love Up by JayBeatz
Songs: Quavo feat. Future “Turn Yo Click Up”
Beyoncé – “Party”
Keith Sweat – “How Deep Is Your Love”
March Madness x Nice & Slow by OJ THE DJ MASHUP
Songs: Future – “March Madness”
Usher – “Nice & Slow”
Say Yes To The Last Memory by Rebirth Of Lean Picasso
Songs: Floetry – “Say Yes”
Takeoff – “Last Memory”
Songs: Beyonce – “Cuff it”
Twista – “Wetter”
Songs: Aaliyah – “Rock the Boat”
Rihanna – “Work”
The post These Music Mashups Have Us Revisiting The Originals appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>
The Case of Da Showstoppaz vs. Beyoncé: Background and Allegations
Who’s Involved?
The plaintiffs are Tessa Avie, Keva Bourgeois, Henri Braggs, and Brian Clark, collectively known as “Da Showstoppaz.” They claim their song “Release A Wiggle” was used without permission in Beyoncé‘s hit “Break My Soul” and Big Freedia’s “Explode.” The defendants include Beyoncé, Big Freedia, Jay-Z, Parkwood Entertainment, Sony Music Entertainment, and more.
What Are They Claiming?
Da Showstoppaz say their song “Release A Wiggle,” which they created in 2002, was sampled without permission in Big Freedia’s “Explode” and later in Beyoncé’s “Break My Soul.” They argue that their unique phrases, melody, and musical arrangement were used without any authorization, acknowledgment, or payment.
Key Points of the Complaint
Infringement and Misappropriation:
The plaintiffs allege that Beyoncé and her team used parts of “Release A Wiggle” in “Break My Soul” and “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé,” leading to huge success without giving credit to Da Showstoppaz. They say this is a clear case of copyright infringement and stealing their intellectual property.
Unfair Trade Practices:
The lawsuit also claims that Big Freedia violated the Louisiana Unfair Trade Practices Act by using the plaintiffs’ work without permission. This has supposedly caused serious financial and reputational damage to Da Showstoppaz.
Unjust Enrichment:
Da Showstoppaz argue that Beyoncé, Big Freedia, and their teams have made big bucks from their work without giving them any credit or compensation. Despite all the profits and awards, Da Showstoppaz say they haven’t seen a dime.
Copyright Law and Fair Use:
The plaintiffs argue that the defendants went way beyond fair use.
The post Exclusive: Beyoncé, Jay-Z Sued for Copyright Infringement Over Song “Break My Soul” appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>The BET Awards 2024 will broadcast live from Los Angeles on Sunday, June 30, at 8 PM ET/PT.
With seven nominations, Drake is ready to dominate the night. His hits like “First Person Shooter” with J. Cole and “Rich Baby Daddy” with Sexyy Red and SZA have earned him nods for ‘Album of the Year,’ ‘Best Male Hip Hop Artist,’ and more.
Nicki Minaj’s six nominations include ‘Album of the Year’ for “Pink Friday 2” and ‘Best Female Hip Hop Artist.’ Her “Barbie World” collaboration with Ice Spice and Aqua is also up for multiple awards.
J. Cole, Sexyy Red, SZA, and Victoria Monét each have five nominations, showcasing their significant impact on music and culture this year. Other notable nominees include 21 Savage, Beyoncé, Doja Cat, Megan Thee Stallion, Tyla, and Usher, all tied with four nominations each.
This year’s BET Awards will also feature live performances from some of the hottest names in music. Expect performances from GloRilla, Latto, Muni Long, Sexyy Red, Shaboozey, and Victoria Monét.
Here’s everything you need to know about the nominees:
Full List of Nominees
Album of the Year
- “11:11” – Chris Brown
- “A Gift & A Curse” – Gunna
- “American Dream” – 21 Savage
- “Coming Home” – Usher
- “For All The Dogs (Scary Hours Edition)” – Drake
- “Jaguar II” – Victoria Monét
- “Michael” – Killer Mike
- “Pink Friday 2” – Nicki Minaj
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist
- Beyoncé
- Coco Jones
- Doja Cat
- H.E.R.
- Muni Long
- SZA
- Tyla
- Victoria Monét
Best Male R&B/Pop Artist
- Brent Faiyaz
- Bryson Tiller
- Burna Boy
- Chris Brown
- Drake
- Fridayy
- October London
- Usher
Best Group
- ¥$, Ye, Ty Dolla $ign
- 2 Chainz & Lil Wayne
- 41
- Blxst & Bino Rideaux
- City Girls
- Flo
- Maverick City Music
- WanMor
Best Collaboration
- “All My Life” – Lil Durk feat. J. Cole
- “America Has a Problem (Remix)” – Beyoncé feat. Kendrick Lamar
- “Barbie World” – Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice (with Aqua)
- “Bongos” – Cardi B feat. Megan Thee Stallion
- “Carnival” – ¥$, Ye, Ty Dolla $ign feat. Rich The Kid, Playboi Carti
- “Don’t Play With It (Remix)” – Lola Brooke feat. Latto & Yung Miami
- “Everybody” – Nicki Minaj feat. Lil Uzi Vert
- “Good Good” – Usher, Summer Walker & 21 Savage
- “Rich Baby Daddy” – Drake feat. Sexyy Red & SZA
Best Female Hip Hop Artist
- Cardi B
- Doja Cat
- GloRilla
- Ice Spice
- Latto
- Megan Thee Stallion
- Nicki Minaj
- Sexyy Red
Best Male Hip Hop Artist
- 21 Savage
- Burna Boy
- Drake
- Future
- Gunna
- J. Cole
- Kendrick Lamar
- Lil Wayne
Video of the Year
- “Agora Hills” – Doja Cat
- “All My Life” – Lil Durk feat. J. Cole
- “Barbie World” – Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice (with Aqua)
- “Bongos” – Cardi B feat. Megan Thee Stallion
- “First Person Shooter” – Drake feat. J. Cole
- “Good Good” – Usher, Summer Walker & 21 Savage
- “On My Mama” – Victoria Monét
- “Rich Baby Daddy” – Drake feat. Sexyy Red & SZA
Video Director of the Year
- Benny Boom
- Child.
- Cole Bennett
- Dave Meyers
- Janelle Monáe & Alan Ferguson
- Offset
- Tems
- Tyler, The Creator
Best New Artist
- 41
- 4Batz
- Ayra Starr
- Bossman Dlow
- Fridayy
- October London
- Sexyy Red
- Tyla
Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award
- “All of the Glory” – Shirley Caesar
- “All Things” – Kirk Franklin
- “Angel” – Halle Bailey
- “Come Jesus Come” – CeCe Winans
- “Do You Believe in Love?” – Erica Campbell
- “God Problems” – Maverick City Music, Naomi Raine & Chandler Moore
- “Me & U” – Tems
- “Try Love” – Kirk Franklin
Viewer’s Choice Award
- “Agora Hills” – Doja Cat
- “All My Life” – Lil Durk feat. J. Cole
- “Fukumean” – Gunna
- “Lovin On Me” – Jack Harlow
- “Made For Me” – Muni Long
- “On My Mama” – Victoria Monét
- “Rich Baby Daddy” – Drake feat. Sexyy Red & SZA
- “Sensational” – Chris Brown feat. Davido & Lojay
- “Texas Hold ‘Em” – Beyoncé
- “Water” – Tyla
Best International Act
- Asake (Africa)
- Aya Nakamura (France)
- Ayra Starr (Africa)
- BK’ (Brazil)
- Cleo Sol (UK)
- Focalistic (Africa)
- Karol Conká (Brazil)
- Raye (UK)
- Tiakola (France)
- Tyla (Africa)
Viewer’s Choice: Best New International Act
- Bellah (UK)
- Cristale (UK)
- Duquesa (Brazil)
- Holly G (France)
- Jungeli (France)
- Makhadzi (Africa)
- Oruam (Brazil)
- Seyi Vibez (Africa)
- Tyler ICU (Africa)
BET Her
- “16 Carriages” – Beyoncé
- “Blessings” – Nicki Minaj feat. Tasha Cobbs Leonard
- “Commas” – Ayra Starr
- “Fly Girl” – Flo feat. Missy Elliott
- “Hiss” – Megan Thee Stallion
- “On My Mama” – Victoria Monét
- “Saturn” – SZA
- “Yeah Glo!” – GloRilla
Best Movie
- “American Fiction”
- “Bob Marley: One Love”
- “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé”
- “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”
- “The Book of Clarence”
- “The Color Purple”
- “The Equalizer 3”
- “The Little Mermaid”
Best Actor
- Anthony Mackie
- Colman Domingo
- Damson Idris
- Denzel Washington
- Donald Glover
- Idris Elba
- Jeffrey Wright
- Lakeith Stanfield
Best Actress
- Angela Bassett
- Ayo Edebiri
- Coco Jones
- Danielle Brooks
- Fantasia
- Halle Bailey
- Issa Rae
- Regina King
YoungStars Award
- Akira Akbar
- Blue Ivy Carter
- Demi Singleton
- Heiress Diana Harris
- Jabria McCullum
- Jalyn Hall
- Leah Jeffries
- Van Van
Sportswoman of the Year Award
- A’ja Wilson
- Angel Reese
- Coco Gauff
- Flau’jae Johnson
- Juju Watkins
- Naomi Osaka
- Sha’Carri Richardson
- Simone Biles
Sportsman of the Year Award
- Anthony Edwards
- Gervonta Davis
- Jalen Brunson
- Jalen Hurts
- Kyrie Irving
- LeBron James
- Patrick Mahomes
- Stephen Curry
Don’t miss the BET Awards 2024, airing live on BET on June 30 at 8 PM ET/PT.
The post Drake Leads the Pack with Seven Nominations at the 2024 BET Awards: See Full List of Nominees appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>Fans continue to relive these incredible moments through stunning personal videos and a concert film released in theaters the same month the tour concluded. “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé” was a massive success, offering those who couldn’t attend a behind-the-scenes look at the makings of this phenomenal show. Now, rumors suggest Beyoncé might soon embark on another tour for her newly released album, “Cowboy Carter.” While we wait for confirmation, let’s revisit some of the most unforgettable moments from the Renaissance tour.
Blue Ivy Carter’s On-Stage Debut
Although fans were excited to see Beyoncé perform, her daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, stole the show as a surprise guest during the Paris stop. At just 12 years old, Blue Ivy joined Beyoncé and the ensemble of dancers for performances of “My Power” and “Black Parade,” marking her stage debut.
Beyoncé Named Honorary Mayor of Santa Clara
On August 30, 2023, the city of Santa Clara, California, declared Beyoncé honorary mayor for the day, coinciding with her concert there. She received the key to the city and celebrated the occasion with her fans. “You know today is special because today I am the mayor,” Beyoncé announced, prompting cheers from the audience.
@beeyonslays SHES SO CUTE DKDJDKDJDK #beyonce #renaissanceworldtour #rwt2023 #beyoncesantaclara #santaclara #funnymoments #cutemoment #beyhive #fypシ
The “Everybody on Mute” Challenge
A standout tradition of the Renaissance tour was the “Everybody on Mute” challenge. Each time Beyoncé performed her single “Energy,” she instructed the crowd to fall completely silent when she sang, “Look around everyone on mute.” While all cities participated enthusiastically, Atlanta was notably the most successful, achieving near-perfect silence.
@d_concert_goer The QUEEN herself said ATLANTA won the “mute” contest! Y’all knew we wasnt going to come to play! #ATLANTA #renaissanceworldtour #beyoncé #everybodyonmutechallenge
The Iconic “Bee” Outfit
One of the tour’s most memorable visuals was Beyoncé’s “Bee” costume. As she performed “America Has a Problem,” she donned a striking yellow and black Mugler bodysuit complete with an antenna headpiece, making a buzzing statement.
@popculturefm
#renaissanceworldtour @Beyoncé #renaissance #liveperformance #americahasaproblem #beyhive #beeoutfit #foryoupage #foryou #fypシ
Megan Thee Stallion Joins Beyoncé in Houston
In a special hometown performance, Megan Thee Stallion joined Beyoncé in Houston to perform their hit “Savage.” The duo donned matching camouflage outfits, energizing the crowd with their dynamic collaboration.
@austinbloggy @Megan Thee Stallion joined @Beyoncé to perform the Savage Remix on Night 2 of Renaissance World Tour in Houston. #fyp #beyonce #beyonceconcert #rwt #rwt2023 #renaissance #renaissanceworldtour #megantheestallion #savage #savageremix #concerts
These moments are just a few highlights from the Renaissance tour that continue to resonate with fans. As we reminisce about these spectacular events, we eagerly anticipate what Beyoncé will bring next. Share your favorite Renaissance memories with us as we look forward to potentially more exciting tours from Queen Bey.
The post One Year Since The Renaissance Began: Reflecting on Our Favorite Moments from Beyoncé’s Historic Tour appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>Beyonce/ Blue Ivy Carter
@eugeneanekwe BEST. NIGHT. OF. MY. LIFE! #beyonce #blueivy #goblue #blue #renaissance #renaissancetour #mypower #detroit
Kim Kardashian/ North West
@dmslol She does not loook happy
#kimkardashian #northwest #kardashians #foryoupageofficiall
Zoe Kravitz/ Lisa Bonet
Diana Ross/ Tracee Ellis Ross
@daves_inspiration Rhonda Ross, Tracee Ellis Ross, & Diana Ross at Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (2018) #blackwomen #blacktiktoks
Jada Pinkett-Smith / Willow Smith
Gabrielle Union / Kaavia Union-Wade
@topmixtapes
Teyana Taylor/ Junie Shumpert
@boomsheeka_ #fypシ #LENOVOJUSTBEYOU #SearchForWonderMom #teyanataylor Hey yall it’s my baby mama(in junie voice)
The post Celebrating Our Favorite Mother-Daughter Duos In Hollywood appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>