During a conversation with Nessa on HOT 97, Franklin remembered West visiting his home with his father and cousin the day after Thanksgiving in 2014. The rapper had driven from Oklahoma and apparently arrived with an appetite, because Franklin joked that Ye and his father ate all his Thanksgiving leftovers. However, their conversation eventually turned to music, with West expressing an interest in contributing to gospel. He offered to produce beats anonymously because he didn’t want his involvement to upset the Christian community.

Franklin immediately rejected the arrangement. “I told him, I said, ‘No, we not doing that,'” he recalled. “Because that sends a message that your gift is good enough, but you’re not.” The distinction mattered to Franklin, who has faced criticism for working with secular artists. Rather than conceal West’s participation to satisfy religious audiences, he wanted the producer to receive the recognition he deserved.

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Read More: Kirk Franklin Discusses Kanye West And His Place On The Mount Rushmore Of Gospel

Kirk Franklin Has Continued Defending His Hip Hop Collaborations

The two eventually worked together publicly on “Ultralight Beam,” the opening track from West’s 2016 album The Life of Pablo. Franklin also joined Ye on Saturday Night Live, performing alongside Chance the Rapper and a gospel choir. Their collaboration drew criticism from some Christian listeners, but Franklin defended his relationship with West. He said he wouldn’t turn his back on the rapper just because others questioned his faith.

That position has remained consistent, especially as Franklin continues working with Hip Hop artists. His collaborations with GloRilla have generated similar objections, including criticism after their song “Rain Down On Me” won a BET Award in 2025. Gospel singer Deitrick Haddon argued that the award reflected problems within the genre, while Franklin has defended GloRilla against those questioning her place in gospel music.

The pair have reunited on “This Time,” featured on Franklin’s new album, I Am What I Am, released Friday (Oct. 30). Speaking with Big Boy earlier this week, Franklin said the criticism directed at GloRilla had been particularly hurtful, with some religious listeners questioning whether she was sufficiently Christian to participate. More than a decade after his conversation with Kanye, Franklin still won’t let those objections determine who gets to make gospel music.

Read More: Kanye, Kendrick, & Kevin Gates: God, Grit, And The Gospel Of Rap

The post Kirk Franklin Recalls Kanye West’s Unusual Offer To Produce Gospel Music appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Here is every pair you need to know about, in order of release date.

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Air Jordan 11 MCS Cleat “Space Jam”

The Jordan 11 MCS Cleat “Space Jam” arrives on November 5th for $225. It kicks off a huge month of Space Jam anniversary releases.

The cleat wears a purple, color-shifting finish that changes tone in the light. Black accents add contrast, and the glossy look keeps the spirit of the classic patent leather Jordan 11.

It is a creative way to bring a famous silhouette to the baseball diamond. Fans of the model and the movie will love this one.

Air Jordan 6 OG “White Infrared”

The Air Jordan 6 OG “White Infrared” returns on November 7th for $215. It is the first time this colorway has come back since 2014.

White leather covers the upper, and bright red appears on the lace lock, the Jumpman, and the midsole. A recent unboxing look showed how clean it looks, and Nike Air branding is back on the heel.

It is one of the most loved Jordan 6 colorways, and this version looks closer to the original than ever. Collectors will be very happy.

Air Jordan 15 “Black Pack”

The Air Jordan 15 “Black Pack” releases on November 7th for $245. It is available through select NBHD retailers and 232323232323.com.

Black covers most of the shoe, and snakeskin texture appears on parts of the side panels. The dressed-up look gives the unusual Jordan 15 shape a sharp and elegant feel.

It is a great way to celebrate one of the most distinctive designs in the line. The Black Pack continues to give lesser-known models a spotlight.

Air Jordan 17 Low “Black Pack”

The Air Jordan 17 Low “Black Pack” joins the Jordan 15 on November 7th for $245. It follows the same retail plan, so look for NBHD stores.

Black and anthracite tones cover the upper, and a faux stingray finish sits around the laces. The result is a polished, premium look that fits the low-top shape well.

Together, the two Black Pack pairs complete a fantastic collection. The 17 Low is a great pick for anyone who loves clean, dressy sneakers.

Air Jordan 11 “Magic Ball” (W)

The Air Jordan 11 “Magic Ball” is a women’s exclusive releasing on November 11th for $235. It is the first of the Space Jam 11s to arrive.

It uses a color-shifting finish that looks different depending on the angle, with black accents around the shoe. The unique look makes it feel like something from another world.

It is a bold and creative twist on the Air Jordan 11, and it is a fun way to honor the movie’s magic basketball. Women’s sizing makes it a special release.

Air Jordan 11 “Green Screen”

The Air Jordan 11 “Green Screen” releases on November 14th for $255. It celebrates how Space Jam was made.

Bright green suede covers the whole shoe, and the outsole glows in the dark with orange traction pods. The official photos also showed special insoles of Michael Jordan in the air, with “JUMPMAN JAM” on the tongue.

The packaging is just as fun, with Monstars artwork and a film clapperboard inside. It is one of the boldest Air Jordan 11s ever made.

Air Jordan 3 “Lola Bunny” (GS)

The Air Jordan 3 “Lola Bunny” is a grade school release arriving on November 21st for $155. It adds a fan-favorite Space Jam character to the lineup.

Soft pink and white leather give the shoe a bright, playful look. One tongue has a pink Lola Bunny Jumpman, while the other keeps the classic yellow Jumpman, and a bunny-tail pom-pom hangs from the shoe.

The insoles show Lola dunking a basketball, which is a great finishing touch. This is a fun and well-designed pair for young fans.

Air Jordan 3 “Santa” (GS)

The Air Jordan 3 “Santa” is another kids release on November 21st for $155. It is a perfect pick for holiday gifts.

Bright red leather covers the upper, with white on the tongue and eyestays like Santa’s suit. A fuzzy black lining sits inside, and the Air Jordan 3 “Santa” insoles feature artwork from a 1985 Nike Christmas ad.

It is a cozy and creative holiday sneaker. Kids will love it, and parents will love the story behind it.

Air Jordan 3 “Not Nice”

The Air Jordan 3 “Not Nice” is the adult holiday pair, releasing on November 21st for $215. It arrives on the same day as the “Santa.”

Cracked black leather gives the upper a burnt, weathered look, with gold showing through in the creases. Red and black elephant print, an aged tan midsole, and “Checked It Twice” insoles complete the Air Jordan 3 “Not Nice” design.

It is one of the most creative holiday Jordans in years. Fans who like a darker look will find a lot to enjoy.

Air Jordan 4 OG “Bred”

The Air Jordan 4 OG “Bred” returns on Black Friday, November 27th, for $230. It is the perfect way to end the month.

Black covers the upper, with fire red, cement grey, and white details around the shoe. Nike Air branding returns on the heel, and the classic Air Jordan 4 wings and mesh stay intact.

The “Bred” is one of the most important colorways in the Air Jordan 4 story. It will be one of the biggest releases of the year.

Overall, November has something for every kind of Jordan fan. From Space Jam gems to the “Bred” 4, this is a month worth planning for.

Read More: UCLA Football Steps Out In Blacked-Out Air Jordan 11 Cleat

The post Every Air Jordan Dropping In November 2026 appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Overall, the box leans into the holiday story. The inside of the lid has a red Jumpman next to “Air Jordan” in a curly script, and a green ribbon wraps around the box.

Tissue paper sits inside, and a tag with green lettering hangs from the shoe. A small bag with extra red laces is also tucked in the box. The black upper looks cracked and burnt, with gold showing through in the creases.

Red and black elephant print covers the toe and heel, and an aged tan midsole completes the worn-in look. A visible Air unit in the heel adds a pink and purple glow.

Other details are hidden on the inside. The Nike Air heel tab lifts to reveal “Not Nice” stitching, and the insoles read “Checked It Twice” in gothic lettering.

The style code is IF4396-001, and the pair is expected in men’s sizing through SNKRS and select Jordan Brand retailers. The Air Jordan 3 “Not Nice” first surfaced as a darker take on the holiday season, and this unboxing shows the full presentation.

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Air Jordan 3 “Not Nice”

The pair is one half of a two-shoe holiday story. The adult “Not Nice” is the darker side, while the kids-only Air Jordan 3 “Santa” is the bright, festive side.

Both shoes reference a 1985 Nike Christmas ad that showed Santa coming down a chimney in Air Jordan 1 “Chicago” sneakers.

Using the Air Jordan 3 for the idea was an unusual pick, since the ad featured the Air Jordan 1. Still, the shoe has had a strong year, and the cracked look suits it well.

Holiday Jordans have become an annual tradition, and the packaging has grown more detailed each year. This one fits that trend nicely.

Overall, the “Not Nice” looks like one of the most creative holiday releases of 2026. Fans who like a darker look will have a lot to enjoy.

Read More: Kevin Gates Shrugs Off $1 Million Court Order For Dreka

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Glo first recreated the cover of Ciara’s 2004 debut album, Goodies, sporting the recognizable pink hoodie, long hair, and cross necklace. She later switched things up for the “Like You” recreation, with Ingram stepping into Bow Wow’s role. The original 2005 video featured the then-couple playing neighbors who were romantically interested in one another. Their real-life relationship made the collaboration especially popular, with the song reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100.

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Read More: GloRilla Isn’t Afraid To Let The World Know She Loves Brandon Ingram

Ciara Previously Dressed As GloRilla For Halloween

Interestingly, Glo’s tribute comes two years after Ciara dressed as her for Halloween. In 2024, the singer hilariously recreated GloRilla’s viral interview with Speedy Morman, complete with the rapper’s Memphis accent and colorful outfit. She even mimicked Glo’s pronunciation of certain words, which had left Speedy struggling to contain his laughter during their original conversation. The impersonation earned an enthusiastic response from Glo, who wrote, “One thing about it CICI gone do df outta Halloween lmao I luv dis @ciara.”

Their mutual admiration isn’t limited to Halloween, either. The two previously collaborated on the remix of Ciara’s “Better Thangs” in 2022. This year’s costumes are a playful return of the favor, although Glo brought her boyfriend along for the occasion. She and Ingram have been publicly linked since 2025, with the Toronto Raptors star occasionally appearing in her social media posts. This time, he traded the basketball court for Bow’s wardrobe, helping Glo revisit two of Ciara’s most celebrated early-career moments.

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Read More: GloRilla & Brandon Ingram’s Lovey-Dovey Relationship Timeline

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Lenny, whose real name is Lenny Santiago, has worked closely with Jay-Z since their Roc-A-Fella days, making his reaction particularly noteworthy. He didn’t elaborate on his comment or name Ye specifically, but the timing is hard to ignore. With Jay officially confirmed to headline Super Bowl LXI, discussions about potential guests have included everyone from Beyoncé to Rihanna. A reunion with Kanye has also become a popular suggestion, despite the considerable damage to their relationship over the years.

Read More: Joe Budden Explains Why Kanye West Will Come Out During JAY-Z’s Super Bowl Halftime Show

Kanye West’s Comments About Jay-Z’s Family Remain A Sticking Point

The speculation has already prompted renewed attention to Ye’s disturbing remarks about Jay-Z and Beyoncé’s children. In March 2025, he targeted the couple’s younger twins, Rumi and Sir, with offensive comments questioning their intellectual abilities. The rapper used an ableist slur and made unfounded claims about the children, drawing widespread condemnation. His history of antisemitic statements has also complicated the possibility of a major televised appearance. Although Ye has since apologized for his behavior, there’s been no public indication that Jay and Beyoncé have forgiven those particular attacks.

Not everyone believes the controversy rules out a reunion. During a recent episode of The Joe Budden Podcast, Budden suggested that Jay could still bring Ye onto the halftime stage. His co-hosts Ice and Ish agreed, while Marc Lamont Hill challenged the prediction, arguing that Ye’s comments about Jay’s children weren’t easy to overlook. Hill also questioned whether the NFL would welcome the rapper given his history of inflammatory public statements.

Interestingly, Jay hasn’t entirely dismissed Kanye’s artistic contributions. During his 2026 documentary series with Rick Rubin, he praised Ye’s creativity, calling him “one of the most brilliant creatives we’re ever going to see.” However, those remarks weren’t confirmation that the two had repaired their personal relationship. As questions continue about who might join Jay at SoFi Stadium, Lenny’s comment adds a perspective from someone within his longtime professional circle.

Read More: Kanye West’s Ableist Tweets About JAY-Z’s Kids Resurface As Super Bowl Halftime Show Talks Heat Up

The post Lenny S Reacts To Kanye West And Jay-Z Super Bowl Reunion Hopes appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

During an appearance on The TMZ Podcast, Gates was asked about the substantial payment and whether he had any reservations about parting with the money. He explained that he’s used to providing generously for the people he loves, suggesting Dreka received the same treatment throughout their relationship. When host Towanda Robinson pressed him about whether he was genuinely unbothered, Gates insisted he wasn’t angry about anything. He also discussed the role of fate in relationships, although he was less interested in addressing speculation about his current romantic life. Per TMZ, Gates made it clear he prefers to keep those matters private.

Read More: Kevin Gates Must Fork Over $1M From Music Catalog Sales To Dreka Gates

Kevin Gates And Dreka’s Divorce Has Been Anything But Peaceful

His latest remarks follow an Oct. 21 court order determining how proceeds from his music catalog sale would be distributed. Dreka was awarded $929,341.50 in child and spousal support, along with an additional $150,000. The agreement also provides payments for her legal representation and other professional expenses.

This seemingly peaceful response departs from Gates’ earlier comments about their separation. In January, he publicly accused Dreka and her family of stealing money from him throughout their relationship. He also alleged that she pursued divorce after he stopped providing financial assistance. Dreka’s attorney, Marty Singer, rejected the accusations as “completely false and fabricated.” Dreka has separately accused Gates of failing to financially support her and their children beginning in 2021.

Despite their disagreements, Gates now appears unwilling to spend much time publicly discussing his former relationship. His reluctance to address his personal life is particularly noteworthy given how much of the couple’s conflict he’s previously shared online. The divorce proceedings have already produced significant financial obligations, but his latest comments suggest he isn’t interested in fighting over this particular court order.

Read More: Kevin Gates & Dreka’s Relationship Timeline

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The rapper said Swift contacted him while he was in St. Louis and asked whether he’d travel to Houston to perform after she and her friends created a dance routine to his hit “Hot in Herre.” She apparently worried about offending him with her budget, telling him, “I don’t really have a budget like that.” Her offer, however, included $50,000, a private jet to bring him and his children to Houston, and hotel accommodations. Nelly wasn’t complaining. “Can you put that in a McDonald’s bag?” he recalled asking. Sure enough, someone from Swift’s team handed him the cash in exactly that packaging.

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Nelly Recalls His Longtime Friendship With Taylor Swift

Despite the generous payment, Nelly insisted money wasn’t his motivation. “I would’ve did it for free,” he said. Swift had also reserved a presidential suite for him and his family, but they never even checked into the hotel. After his brief appearance, they headed straight back to the airport, where her plane was available to take them home.

Their friendship has lasted well beyond those concert appearances. Nelly and Ashanti attended Swift’s July wedding to Travis Kelce at Madison Square Garden, with Ashanti describing the celebration as “so magical.” During an interview with Good Day New York, the couple also discussed their longtime relationship with the singer. Nelly called himself a Swiftie, while Ashanti affectionately referred to her as “Tay Tay,” per People. Their friendship has even extended to Nelly’s performances, where he said Swift has joined him onstage to sing “Dilemma.”

Check out the clip above of Nelly sharing his story.

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The post Nelly Recalls Taylor Swift Paying Him $50K In A McDonald’s Bag appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Sources familiar with the festival’s plans told TMZ that all three acts are close to being confirmed. The report also claims organizers pursued BTS and Rage Against the Machine, but both groups declined. The potential lineup has been developing behind the scenes for some time. In September, HITS Daily Double identified Lipa and Impala as expected headliners, with SZA among the artists being considered for another top spot. The publication has since updated its reporting, saying sources have confirmed SZA will fill the remaining headlining slot.

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Read More: Drake & SZA Reportedly Finalists To Headline Coachella

Drake Was Previously Rumored To Headline Coachella 2027

Interestingly, SZA wasn’t the only major name reportedly in contention for that coveted position. Earlier this month, Drake was identified as a possible headliner, alongside SZA and Radiohead. The Canadian rapper was reportedly among the leading candidates after BTS backed away from negotiations. His potential involvement drew attention as he prepares for another major touring year, but his name is absent from the latest reported headlining trio.

These appearances would also mean different things for the artists. Tame Impala previously headlined Coachella in 2019, while Dua Lipa has never performed a full solo set at the festival. She did make a guest appearance with Martin Garrix in 2017. SZA has also performed at Coachella before, including a prominent set in 2018, but this would be her first time headlining, if these rumors are true.

The 2027 festival is scheduled for April 9–11 and April 16–18 at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Karol G led this year’s festivities, setting a considerable precedent for the next lineup. Organizers are expected to reveal the official roster soon, which should also clarify whether previously rumored performers such as Drake and Fred again.. have any involvement. With the latest reports naming three expected headliners, there’s considerably less room for the other artists who were reportedly competing for those spots.

Read More: Drake Is Reportedly “In The Coachella Discussion” For Next Year

The post Coachella 2027 Reportedly Closing In On SZA, Dua Lipa appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Rocket shared several instrumentals on his Instagram Stories on Thursday (Oct. 29), showcasing some of his latest production work. XXL noted that he tagged North in one of the previews, although neither teenager has confirmed a collaboration. North has been developing her own sound as both a rapper and producer, leaning into the aggressive, bass-heavy production associated with the newer generation of Hip Hop artists.

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Read More: Pharrell Williams Stuns With Family In Photo From His Louis Vuitton Show

Pharrell Williams’ Son Already Has A Production Credit

Rocket already has experience working with another famous Hip Hop family. He produced “Sam & Colby,” a collaboration between Mag!c and Lil Novi, the son of Lil Wayne and singer Nivea. Interestingly, North has also worked with the pair, producing their song “Justswagup” earlier this year. She and Novi subsequently released “MULA THE ROOT OF ALL EVIL” in June. That gives Rocket and North a musical connection through artists they’ve both worked with, even without a confirmed collaboration of their own.

Rocket’s interest in music began well before he started posting beats online. Pharrell previously revealed that his son was already playing piano at just three years old, well before he learned the instrument himself. “He plays keys, it’s amazing,” the producer said during a 2014 interview with Good Morning Britain. “I didn’t start playing piano until I was like in my twenties because I was a classically trained drummer.”

Despite having one of music’s most recognizable producers as a father, Rocket has maintained a relatively private life. He’s occasionally appeared alongside Pharrell and his mother, Helen Lasichanh, including at his father’s debut Louis Vuitton menswear show in Paris in 2023. Now, with his 18th birthday approaching in November, he’s sharing more of his own creative work. Whether North will be part of an upcoming release remains unclear, but Rocket already has a production credit to his name, and his latest previews suggest more music is in the works.

Read More: Pharrell Gets Flamed For His Production On Quavo’s “QRÖMELIFE”

The post Pharrell’s Son Rocket Williams Follows In His Footsteps With New Beats appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

However, Wham said Meek pulled out of the process. It’s a curious tale, as we could’ve gotten Atlanta, Chicago, and Philly teaming up for a full LP with three MCs who have chemistry together and boast comparable artistic skills and aesthetics.

“Meek Mill had a house in Atlanta close to my house, I think Durk stayed somewhere close too, and he had us just pulling up,” Baby recalled. “So at first, we was making a joint tape, us three. Then, in the midst of it… We going to James [Harden’s] house recording, we coming to New York recording, we had got, like, six different records… [Meek] wasn’t really feeling it at the time. He was just like, ‘Y’all just do it.’ And I’m like, ‘We was really only doing it for you.’ We already was making records. Pre-then, me and Durk ain’t really make songs. We was, you know, cool. We weren’t collaborators, we wasn’t really studio buddies. But that’s what started me and him making the records… It wasn’t intentionally like I thought about who I needed to do a joint tape with.”

Read More: How 50 Cent And Tia Kemp’s Unlikely Alliance Turned Into Bitter Beef

The Voice Of The Heroes

Both Baby and Meek have supported Lil Durk throughout his legal woes this decade. After a jury acquitted Durk on murder-for-hire charges, he now faces a racketeering case next year.

Elsewhere, Meek Mill is hitting the road soon after dropping some new singles this year. It’s a short six-city run, but should hype up his newest releases and pave the way for future ones.

The Voice Of The Heroes made a pretty big splash in 2021. Maybe if Meek was on it, it would’ve been an even bigger moment. But everything happens for a reason.

Read More: Ray J & Whitney Houston’s Relationship Was Never That Simple

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