Publishing date: Jun, 23, 2023
If you’re anything like us, we see an interesting headline during our daily scroll—pause to read it—but then keep scrolling without reading the actual story. So at the end of each week, we’re rounding up all the buzziest, news-worthy headlines you might have missed. Think of it like the “saved” feature on Instagram but for news instead of aesthetically pleasing photos. Pharrell’s star-studded Louis Vuitton debut was a success, Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice teamed up for the single “Barbie World” for Greta Gerwig’s Barbie movie, and Doja Cat announces her headlining tour—this is what you missed.
#1
Pharrell Debuts His First Collection for Louis Vuitton in Paris
Pharrell Williams debuted his first Louis Vuitton collection in a highly anticipated and star-studded event in Paris. The show was a fashion spectacle that showcased Pharrell’s vision and marked a paradigm shift for LV and the fashion industry at large. The collection represented a fusion of luxury and pop culture, with a guest list that included Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Kim Kardashian, Zendaya, Tyler, The Creator, and our parents, Rihanna & A$AP Rocky. Clipse, a hip-hop duo consisting of Pusha T and No Malice, made a cameo on the runway rather than on the sidelines, with a new track to which even Bey and Jay were bopping. The choir Voices of Fire, led by Pharrell’s uncle, Bishop Ezekiel Williams, delivered a powerful performance of another new song by Pharrell titled “Joy (Unspeakable)” before the finale of the show, which featured an epic musical moment where the orchestra and choir joined together. Pharrell, wearing a Louis Vuitton suit in a Damouflage print, walked the runway alongside his design team. Jay-Z concluded the legendary night by performing after the debut show, even performing “Frontin’” with Pharrell. Icons, legends, and stars aside, Pharrell’s collection showcased his unique creative vision and craftsmanship, encompassing various categories, including tailoring, comfort, resort, sport, and a core collection of timeless basics. One standout element of the collection was the Damouflage print, a pixelated version of LV’s iconic Damier chessboard pattern, appearing on various garments, accessories, and footwear. Pharrell’s genius for creating mass-adored music and products is clear and has been proved decades over. His appointment as Louis Vuitton’s men’s creative director brought together a team of 55 departments and 2,500 master artisans, providing him with the resources to bring his vision to life, demonstrating his enthusiasm and passion for the brand, as he eagerly tried on and highlighted his favorite pieces. Pharrell’s new role signifies a shift in the fashion industry, breaking boundaries and creating opportunities for Black artists. He credits Marc Jacobs, the former creative director of Louis Vuitton, for paving the way and allowing artists like himself to design and create within the fashion world, merging luxury fashion with pop culture.
#2
Bad Bunny Is Spotted with ‘Utopia’ Briefcase, Confirming Travis Scott Collab
Spotted! Bad Bunny and Travis Scott have confirmed that they’re cooking up something special in the studio as Benito is seen with the reputable Utopia briefcase. Fans have been buzzing with excitement, and now it’s official. Travis Scott’s highly anticipated album, Utopia, has been the talk of the internet, and the speculations have reached fever pitch. While there’s still no concrete release date for the follow-up to the iconic Astroworld, we can’t contain our excitement for what’s to come. The intrigue deepens as a mysterious briefcase, emblazoned with the “Utopia” logo, has been making appearances by the likes of The Weeknd and SZA to signal their appearances on the album. Now, Bad Bunny himself was spotted with the enigmatic briefcase, adding more fuel to the fire of anticipation. It seems like the stars are aligning, and we can’t wait to see what magic they’ve created together. As for the release date, the jury is still out. Travis Scott fans have been divided, with some hoping for a June drop and others speculating about a later release. With June coming to a close, we’re eagerly awaiting the moment when we can step into the sonic utopia that Travis Scott has meticulously been crafting with Mike Dean. Stay tuned for more updates because Utopia is just around the corner—we hope.
#3
Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice Team Up for Single “Barbie World”
Get ready to enter the fabulous world of Barbie like never before. Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice have teamed up for the ultimate collaboration, releasing their catchy new single, “Barbie World,” for Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Barbie movie. The RiotUSA-produced track puts a fresh spin on Aqua’s iconic “Barbie Girl” and the duo also dropped a vibrant music video, directed by the talented Hannah Lux Davis, that immerses us in a pink paradise. Watch as Nicki, Ice Spice, and their doll counterparts have a blast in their very own Barbie Dreamhouse. It’s a visual feast that captures the essence of Barbie’s world. “Barbie World” is just one of the exciting tracks from the Barbie the Album soundtrack. Previously, we were treated to electrifying singles like Dua Lipa’s “Dance the Night,” Karol G’s “Watati,” and PinkPantheress’ “Angel.” The album and movie are set to release on Friday, July 21, for a Barbie-inspired musical extravaganza. For Nicki Minaj, a self-proclaimed Barbie herself, this collaboration with Ice Spice is a match made in pop culture heaven for Munchkins and Barbz. “Barbie World” is a dream come true for fans who eat up everything this dynamic duo has to deliver. So join the party and let the music transport you to a world where all the Barbies are pretty, bad It girls who dominate the music scene.
#4
Young Thug Drops ‘BUSINESS IS BUSINESS’
Young Thug is back, bringing the heat with his latest album, BUSINESS IS BUSINESS. The project is the first from Young Thug since 2021’s Punk, and features an all-star lineup including Drake, Future, 21 Savage, Lil Uzi Vert, Yak Gotti, Travis Scott, and more, with Metro Boomin leading the charge as executive producer with additional production by the likes of Southside, Wheezy, and FNZ. In true Young Thug fashion, he cryptically teased us with a mysterious QR code unleashing a wave of anticipation for their respective albums. Thug’s album saw support from Drake, 21 Savage, Coi Leray, and others who shared the album’s cryptic countdown on their social media pages a few days prior to its official announcement. “Abracadabra” has a beat that powers the songs, with smooth elements, making for an infectious melody which Travis Scott shines over. Similar to “Wit Da Racks,” Travis switches his style a few times, building on the tone Thugger establishes. “Wit Da Racks” solidifies itself as one of the toughest songs on the album, with 21 Savage and Yak Gotti, in addition to Travis, bringing nonchalant rizz over impeccable production that goes hard. Whereas in “Hellcat Kenny” featuring Lil Uzi Vert, the two rappers use laidback rap stylings over a soft, bouncy beat. While Young Thug has been facing legal troubles along the way, his undeniable talent and impact have continued to shine even during his time behind bars. He’s been a force to be reckoned with, lending his signature style to tracks like “My Wrist,” “Run,” “Potion,” and “Royal Flush,” showcasing his ability to effortlessly elevate any song he touches, even nominated for two 2023 Grammy Awards for his appearance on Gunna’s “Pushin P”. It’s obvious that Young Thug’s creativity knows no bounds and he maintains a genuine drive to keep making music which reminds us all why he’s a true rap icon.
#5
Doja Cat Announces Arena ‘Scarlet Tour’ With Ice Spice and Doechii
Does Doja Cat have your attention? Doja Cat takes center stage on her first-ever headlining “Scarlet Tour” across North America. This 24-date journey kicks off on October 31st in San Francisco, and it’s set to sweep through major cities like Miami, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles, leaving a trail of awe-inspiring performances in its wake. Joining Doja Cat on select dates are the sensational princess Ice Spice and the mesmerizing Doechii. While she may have expressed moments of uncertainty and criticism recently about her own music on social media, Doja Cat has triumphantly returned with her latest single, “Attention.” This captivating track showcases her rap skills and addresses the critics head-on. In an interview with Variety, she teased her upcoming album, revealing a shift towards a less pop-driven direction and a focus on her rapping. She’s determined to silence the naysayers and prove her prowess in the genre. She’s set to deliver an unforgettable live experience that will leave fans in awe. Mark your calendars because ticket presales start on June 28th, with general on-sale beginning on June 30th.