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We Build The Block is a New York City-based organization. Its mission is to build a future of public safety in the community. According to their <a href="https://webuildtheblock.org/about-us/">website</a>, the organization advocates for the reduction of violence, replacing over-policing, and supporting local youth in those communities.<h3 id="h-we-build-the-block-s-call-to-action">We Build The Block's Call to Action</h3>Shortly after the pandemic hit, We Build The Block started moving full force. This is a direct outcome after the founders noticed the racism that was happening in communities of color during the pandemic. With people of color being disproportionately ticketed over social distancing regulations, the murder of George Floyd that shook the nation, and the Black Lives Matter movement pushing to action, We Build The Block rapidly gained its momentum.Now in 2022, We Build The Block is currently accomplishing its goal of building a public safety ecosystem that doesn’t center around the police department but rather centers on the community and its needs. Community leader Dana Rachlin and one of our own, Shani Kulture, are the co-founders of this program. The two sat down with Ebro in the Morning to discuss their plan of action earlier today (August 25). <h3 id="h-initiatives-strategizing-for-the-future">Initiatives & Strategizing For the Future</h3>During the interview, Rachlin explains how the two already have implemented initiatives in the community: “We work with a crew that was in the height of a gang war and put those boys into group therapy”. She continued, “And guess what? They stopped. The shootings stopped”. Shani Kulture then goes into detail about the importance of building a community that would have each other’s back to prevent dangerous situations. In addition to initiatives like this, We Build The Block also stresses the significance of the relationships between police officers and students. As a result, the police are not only learning about the community through the students, but their perceptions of the kids are different. Officers who are not from the community are seeing kids from the block as people, not as perpetrators. Late co-founder of the organization, Michael Kenneth Williams, also came out with his newly published memoir “Scenes of My Life” where he discusses his journey of love and healing.

'We Build The Block' Calls For Community Activism On Ebro In The Morning

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Ebro in the Morning discuss the latest fails of the day during the Congratulations You Played Yourself segment.Topics Include:- Kyrie Irving & Stephen A. Smith React To Each Other On Social Media- Kyrie's Future With The Brooklyn Nets

Thoughts On Kyrie Irving VS Stephen A. Smith + Nets Future

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<h1>A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie is working smarter, not harder.</h1> On the heels of Drake’s house-inspired album Honestly, Nevermind and Beyoncé’s new house track, other artists are looking to capitalize! A Boogie has remixed his hit-song “Drowning” into a jersey club mix. Not only that, the New York artist has utilized the other regional sound and dropped a Drowning drill remix along with the jersey club mix. So whether you're at a BBQ in the Bronx or rooftop bar in Bushwick, A Boogie has something for you! Five years after their original release, Drowning now has two new remixes. <iframe style="border-radius: 12px;" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/3nIatv0DsncjyHL9aNKYv7?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="380" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>Rather than waiting for a popular DJ or someone on TikTok to remix these songs, A Boogie Wit da Hoodie is taking charge and releasing remixes of his own songs. This way A Boogie retains ownership, credit, and the streams generated by his song. A Boogie is setting an example that other artists can now follow, why wait for someone else to claim your songs when you can capitalize on the moment. <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hip-hop-news/hot-news/drill-vs-house-the-battle-for-the-sound-of-hip-hop/#:~:text=The%20difference%20between%20popular%20house,house%20music%20is%20top%2Ddown.">Right now the house sound and the drill sound are both making waves in hip-hop</a>, but A Boogie said “why not capitalize on both?” Both drill and house are sample heavy subgenres, so technically any song can be manipulated into those styles. Drowning makes a lot of sense as a song to remix because it’s not a very cluttered song. It’d be much harder to remix songs by artists like Kendrick Lamar or Smino because their songs normally have really full sounds involving horn sections and vocal layering. Whereas A Boogie has more of a spacious and airy sound as an artist. Being a New York artist, A Boogie has the green light and local clout to pull off both jersey club and drill remixes without frustrating fans. It would be much harder for an LA artist to pull this off, but A Boogie’s regional roots let him take full advantage of the local trends.

A Boogie Releases Jersey Club & Drill Remixes of \"Drowning\"

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Miabelle caught up with The Girll Codee right after hitting the Festival Stage at Summer Jam! They kept their energy as they discussed their outfit for the day, reppin' for Brooklyn, and how it felt to hit that stage!Stay tuned for more highlights and exclusive content from Summer Jam which went down Sunday, June 12, at Metlife Stadium.

Girll Codee On Reppin' For Brookyn, Being Grateful, + Fashion

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Jay Z is giving back to his neighborhood.Hov, alongside Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, is offering a free class teaching residents living in Brooklyn Marcy Projects about “the future of <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hip-hop-news/hot-news/tried-it-four-men-caught-hacking-gas-pumps-to-reduce-the-price/">money.</a>” Jay Z made a rare appearance on social media and announced on Twitter he’s launching the Bitcoin Academy. Jay said, “Shout out to<a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://twitter.com/jack?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1534921133199347712%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.xxlmag.com%2Fjay-z-bitcoin-academy-marcy-projects%2F" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> @Jack</a>.<a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1534921133199347712%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.xxlmag.com%2Fjay-z-bitcoin-academy-marcy-projects%2F&src=hashtag_click" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> #Bitcoin</a> Academy, starting in Marcy, a place that taught me so much, is hopefully the first of many. The simple goal is to provide people tools to build independence for themselves and then the community around them.” The message goes on to say, “Thanks to the teams at<a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://twitter.com/blocks" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> @Blocks</a> and <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://twitter.com/ShawnCarterSF" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@ShawnCarterSF</a> and educators <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://twitter.com/CryptoPlug3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@CryptoPlug3</a> and<a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://twitter.com/BlkBTCBillions" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> @BlkBTCBillions</a> for all the work to make this happen!”https://twitter.com/sc/status/1534921134612914182?s=21&t=6QijwnYbYUI6bR4akd2jaAhttps://twitter.com/jack/status/1534928795031023617?s=21&t=kOQe8ETQwoCZOaTAljUbQgAccording to the website, the academy will offer in-person and online<a href="https://www.hot97.com/hip-hop-news/hot-news/surprise-stimulus-checks-are-being-sent-out-heres-what-you-need-to-know/"> classes</a> for one- year. It’ll be offered from June 22 through September 7, only for Marcy residents, but they plan to expand to other places in the <a href="https://youtu.be/-4ABd_xG1wo">future.</a> The instructors include Lamar Wilson and Najah J. Roberts. The site also points out that the funding for the program was made possible due to personal grants from Jay, Jack and on-the-ground support from Block and the Shawn Carter Foundation. It was designed in collaboration with Crypto Blockchain Plug and Black Bitcoin Billionaire, a program that aims to provide education and empower the community with knowledge.The mission statement notes, “education is power.” Per the report, participants in the program will receive MiFi devices and a one-year limited data plan, plus smartphones if needed. Residents may keep the devices. Hov wants the youth to have financial literacy as well. There’s also a Crypto Kids Camp program that will take place on two Saturdays for Marcy kids and teens ages 5-17. https://twitter.com/JAY_Z_Daily/status/1534896755954917376?s=20&t=qXUgzqjbL_pWgJ1ROavHVQHave you been exploring Bitcoin? Would you want to attend one of these classes if one came to a city near you?

Jay Z Launched A Free Program Educating Marcy Project Residents About Financial Literacy

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Ebro speaks about an experience he had this week when he was pulled over for using his phone while driving and given a ticket, and at the same time being recognized by fans and being handed weed. A new New York experience.

Ebro Gets Pulled Over & Sold Weed AT THE SAME TIME!

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Robert Kelly's Chicago trial is still set for August 1.As reported on news sources, the disgraced singer has an upcoming trial for charges of child pornography and obstruction of justice charges. <a href="https://abc7chicago.com/amp/r-kelly-news-jail-trial/11835087/">ABC</a> reports that R. Kelly's defense attorneys "failed to persuade a judge" to delay the trial for <a href="https://www.rap-up.com/2022/05/13/kendrick-lamar-raps-about-kanye-west-drake-reunion-r-kelly-new-album/">three months</a>. U.S. District Judge Harry Leinenweber was not in favor of postponing the<a href="https://www.hot97.com/hip-hop-news/hot-news/derek-chauvin-denied-motion-for-new-trial-still-awaiting-sentencing/"> trial</a> after it had already been delayed so many times in the past. The outlet says Jennifer Bonjean, the attorney who helped free Bill Cosby, sought the delay and told Leinenweber Tuesday (May 10) that there is "an exorbitant amount of material to digest" to get ready for trial. Bonjean also said R. Kelly is "looking down the barrel of a life sentence." Leinenweber said: "The problem is, this case has been delayed time and time again. This case is going to have to go to trial."R. Kelly is facing another potential life sentence in federal prison after a jury in Brooklyn convicted him of racketeering. He'll be sentenced on June 15. Bonjean pushed to delay his Brooklyn sentencing until after his Chicago trial, but the Brooklyn judge refused.The "Bump N' Grind" singer remains in a federal detention center in <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/may/04/everyone-failed-these-young-black-girls-journalist-jim-derogatis-on-his-decades-long-battle-to-expose-r-kelly">New York</a>. Last year the singer was found guilty. He was convicted by a federal judge for racketeering conspiracy, alleging he headed a criminal enterprise that employed agents, runners, bodyguards, and others to lure and trap girls and young women to satisfy his sexually predatory desires, The Chicago Tribune reports.The trial began on August 18. There were a total of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ULgfpfTdZ8">50 witnesses</a>. More than half a dozen witnesses <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.google.com/amp/s/mobile.reuters.com/article/amp/idUSKBN2GK1SR" target="_blank" rel="noopener">testified</a> against <a href="https://www.hot97.com/hip-hop-news/hot-news/r-kellys-lawyer-gives-shocking-reaction-to-his-guilty-verdict/">R. Kelly</a> and said they were abused by the singer when they were underaged. Males and females told stories of meeting Kelly, one of his associates, after a concert or the infamous Mcdonald's. They alleged the singer made promises for their singing career in exchange for sexual favors. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Gi8SPK37V4

Judge Rejects Motion To Delay R. Kelly's Chicago Trial

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Chigozie Onyema is running for West Ward City Council in Newark, New Jersey and he sits down with the Ebro in the Morning team to share how he plans to make a difference if elected.Some of the issues he discussed is housing, engaging with the community, and more!Elections in Newark are being held May 10!

Chigozie Onyema On Running For Newark City Council, Housing, + Engaging w/ Community

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Ebro in the Morning chime in on Stephen A. Smith ripping Ben Simmons a new one for missing the Brooklyn Nets do or die game 4 against the Boston Celtics.Ebro in the Morning discuss the latest trending topics during Flashing Lights.

Flashing Lights: Stephen A. Smith Rips Ben Simmons A New One

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Vince Staples came to HOT 97 to talk to Nessa on 3/14/22 about his upcoming album Ramona Park Broke My Heart. They talked about the difference with the rats in New York City vs California and being on tour with Tyler the Creator, being in studio with DJ Quik, the most important thing to success, his mother, his friendship with Joe Budden, how thoughts on the industry, his influences, Tupac and not liking excuses.

Vince Staples talks Joe Budden, DJ Quik and the Most Important Thing to Success

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Nicki Minaj season is upon us, and the QUEEN ain't letting up! Nicki announced she wants artists to <a href="https://youtu.be/EUhQxvZJK6I">submit</a> their verses for her latest single, "We Go Up," featuring Fivio Foregin. In the Twitter message, Nicki said, "Going once Going twice Are there any 'rappers' that would like a verse on the WGU remix?" She continued, "The instrumental is on iTunes. F*ck it up & send it to me. [shrug emoji] that's WTF EYEEEEEEE [eye emoji] USED TO DO [eye emoji] but that is I and I am him. Slim THICK wit da tilted brim. [hate emoji][tongue emoji] .” Take a look:https://twitter.com/nickiminaj/status/1516568125495410688?s=21&t=cRCsZOrcQOBi_2G9oNVSGA The "We Go Up" visual was released on April 19. Nicki and Fivio paid homage to NYC in the video, as it was shot in Nikki's hometown, Southside Jamaica Queens. The video is luxurious with a dose of hood. The pair head to the big apple in a private jet, then stunt on NYC streets with Ferraris and Lamborghinis. Nicki warned fans that if the "We Go Up" video doesn't get a lot of love, she'll delay her <a href="https://thejasminebrand.com/2022/04/19/nicki-minaj-warns-fans-to-stream-new-video-for-we-go-up-or-she-will-delay-her-upcoming-album/">album</a>. The "Pills N Potions" rapper has been spitting out a ton of singles. Before "We Go Up," Coi released her collab with Nicki on "Blick Blick" last week. A few weeks ago, Nicki dropped two hot singles with Lil Baby on "Bussin" and "Do We Have A Problem." It's not clear exactly when Nicki plans on dropping. Billboard points out Nicki appeared on The Late Show in February and hinted that she has one in the works. Nicki said, "I do know that it's soon, and I do know that it's a lot sooner than it's ever been. And I know that it's coming this year. And I know that it'll be out before the summertime."Nicki's last album was her 2018, <a href="https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/nicki-minaj-fivio-foreign-we-go-up-video-1235060940/amp/">Queen</a>. Check out some "We Go Up" submissions from Cupcake and Omretta The Great:https://www.instagram.com/p/Ccnt8PeLfDJ/https://www.instagram.com/p/CclE8NBjkFm/

Nicki Minaj Looking For A Rapper To Hop On' We Go Up RMX,' Who Will It Be?

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Over the weekend, hip hop legend and our HOT 97 family member Keith Grayson, best known as DJ Kay Slay passed away at 55-years-old.His family released this statement through HOT 97:<blockquote>Our hearts are broken by the passing of Keith Grayson, professionally known as DJ Kay Slay. A dominant figure in Hip Hop culture with millions of fans worldwide, DJ Kay Slay will be remembered for his passion and excellence with a legacy that will transcend generations. In memory of DJ Kay Slay, our family wishes to thank all of his friends, fans, and supporters for their prayers and well wishes during this difficult time. We ask that you respect our privacy as we grieve this tragic loss. The Grayson Family</blockquote>The "Drama King" was first introduced to the world as one of the biggest graffiti artists in New York, and was featured in the 1983 documentary Style Wars. Years later he would find success as a DJ and publisher.In the early-to-mid 2000's the Harlem native became one of the most prominent DJ's on the mixtape scene being knows for featuring exclusive, and unreleased music in his mixtapes. He also released his first two albums Streetsweeper Vol. 1 & 2 in 2003 and 2004 respectfully through his first deal with Violator Records.Kay Slay released a total of six studio albums, and has worked with the top artists in hip hop over the years including Nas, Jadakiss, Fabolous, Busta Rhymes, Fat Joe, Foxy Brown, and many more over the years as well as Papoose who he had signed to the Streetsweepers imprint and released multiple mixtapes with. He also made a big impact on the hip hop community as the CEO of Straight Stuntin Magazine.The legend also held a longstanding slot on HOT 97 with the Drama Hour.HOT 97 is shocked and saddened by the loss of our beloved DJ Kay Slay. We cherish the many memories created through the twenty-plus years he dedicated to the “Drama Hour.” A cultural icon, The Streetsweeper Kay Slay was more than just a DJ, to us he was family and a vital part of what made HOT 97 the successful station it is today. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and fans worldwide and we will always and forever celebrate The Drama King's legacy. Help us in sending prayers to friends and family and celebrating the life and impact of Keith Grayson aka DJ Kay Slay.

RIP DJ Kay Slay Has Passed Away At 55

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Brooklyn, New York rapper Bizzy Banks pulled up on Funk Flex to drop some bars!He dropped his Same Energy project last month with Atlantic. <a href="https://www.hot97.com/new-hip-hop-music/bizzy-banks-returns-with-new-project-same-energy-features-from-pnb-rock-more/">Check it out</a>.Let us know what your <a href="https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.www.complex.com/music/bizzy-banks-driftin-video">favorite line</a> from the freestyle is!

Bizzy Banks Joins Funk Flex For Freestyle 164

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Officer Edwin Raymond joins Ebro in the Morning to discuss his decision to run for City Council.He also discusses subjects such as his personal experiences during last year's protests, the NYPD's perception with citizens of New York City, how to bring more change and diversity to the department, recent crime in the city, and his thoughts on issues such as bail reform.Watch the whole conversation below.https://youtu.be/kbi0vxsEvYQ 

Edwin Raymond Shares Thoughts On NYPD + Talks Protests, Diversity, Threats & Running For Office

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Current NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer speaks to Ebro about his decision to run for mayor, his plans to fix the economy following the COVID-19 crisis, opening and improving public schools, NYPD reform, and rank choice voting.Watch the full conversation below.<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MUF6jLAU3Qs" width="100%" height="496" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

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'We Build The Block' Calls For Community Activism On Ebro In The Morning