Music

Barack Obama Theorizes Why So Many Rappers Supported Donald Trump

Getty Image There are parallels between Donald Trump and rappers that make the mogul seem more attractive to the artists that rallied behind him. …

During the recent election, many hip-hop fans were disappointed to find that some of the genre’s biggest stars chose to support Donald Trump in spite of his policies. Lil Wayne, Lil Pump, and more posted to social media openly professing their preference for Trump over his opposition Joe Biden, while others like 50 Cent joked that they liked Trump’s tax policy more than Biden’s. In a recent interview with The Atlantic, former president Barack Obama tries to explain why Trump’s presentation tended to resonate with this particular demographic.

“I have to remind myself that if you listen to rap music, it’s all about the bling, the women, the money,” he says. “A lot of rap videos are using the same measures of what it means to be successful as Donald Trump is. Everything is gold-plated. That insinuates itself and seeps into the culture.”

Indeed, there’s a lot of rap music that is explicitly about the topics mentioned above (and just as much that isn’t), while even some of the most progressive-minded minded rappers across the genre’s 40-year history have engaged at least a few of these tropes in their efforts to make their music and videos palatable to the widest variety of fans. Rappers in the 90s and 2000s often name-checked Trump to associate themselves with the perception of wealth and those constant cameos were a driving force in Kanye West’s 2016 decision to meet with Trump despite the then candidate’s divisive rhetoric. In Obama’s mind, this is symptomatic of growing materialism in the broader American culture, which makes someone like Trump seem more attractive than they really are.

“America has always had a caste system — rich and poor, not just racially but economically — but it wasn’t in your face most of the time when I was growing up,” he explains. “Then you start seeing Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, that sense that either you’ve got it or you’re a loser. And Donald Trump epitomizes that cultural movement that is deeply ingrained now in American culture.”

He does point out his optimistic view of the future, however, expressing his hope in a younger generation who values different standards for success. “When you look at the younger generation, Malia and Sasha’s generation, you see that more clearly,” he adds. “It’s more often articulated, what they want out of life. They’re much less likely to have a need to be on Wall Street by such-and-such date. That is not how they seem to be defining themselves quite as much. That makes me more optimistic.”

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Artist Spotlight

Ice Spice Stuns in Paris Fashion Week Photo Dump, Fans Celebrate Her Iconic Looks and Natural Glow

Ice Spice is showing that she’s not only a rising star in rap but also a true fashion icon. Recently, while in Milan, she brushed aside rumors about her dating football player Sauce Gardner and then took Paris Fashion Week by storm, leaving her fans in awe. In her latest series of Instagram photos, captioned “princess in paris,” she displayed an amazing mix of high-fashion styles, proving that she knows how to set trends. She flaunted various looks, from chic and cool to gracefully glamorous. Whether she was sporting wavy hair in a sheer dress or sleek and stylish in leather with straight hair, Ice Spice radiated confidence and creativity.

Some photos even featured her with fellow artists PinkPantheress and Chappell Roan, showing how well she blends music, culture, and fashion. Fans couldn’t help but shower her with compliments, celebrating her bold changes in style and her undeniable star quality. However, there was some chatter about her body along with the fashion talk. Some fans pointed out that Ice Spice seemed to have gained some weight, which reminded them of her earlier look, playfully nicknamed “Old Spice” by her followers.

While it’s easy for social media to focus on how celebrities change over time, it’s essential to remember that body image is a personal journey. As always, Ice Spice carries herself confidently, promoting self-acceptance and self-expression. No matter what others think, she embraces her individuality, balancing her artistry with a refreshing honesty that keeps fans engaged. Her time at Paris Fashion Week was a strong message. Ice Spice is determined to set her own. Whether she’s front row at the hottest fashion shows or casually sharing snapshots, the world is paying attention, and she’s making the most of every moment.

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Artist Spotlight

Drake’s Halftime Redemption? FIFA President Teases 6 God’s Shot at World Cup Glory

Drake might have faced some challenges in 2024, but FIFA President Gianni Infantino could offer him a golden opportunity for a comeback. During a recent chat on Good Day New York, Infantino teased the idea of Drake performing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup Halftime Show, which could spark another exciting chapter in the competition between Drake and Kendrick Lamar. Kendrick Lamar has been a strong competitor in their ongoing rivalry, gaining much attention with his songs “Meet the Grahams” and “Not Like Us.”

In 2025, while Kendrick continues to win Grammys and shine during big events like the Super Bowl Halftime Show, his album has remained a hit on music charts, standing firm against Drake’s latest work. Yet, everyone knows Drake is not one to shy away from a challenge. Then, there’s FIFA. When host Rosanna Scotto suggested the idea of Drake headlining the World Cup Halftime Show in 2026, Infantino seemed intrigued. “Drake… Kendrick Lamar dissed him at the Super Bowl,” she pointed out, highlighting a perfect chance for Drake to make a strong comeback. Infantino, who has previously collaborated with Drake to announce locations for the tournament, appeared enthusiastic about the idea, responding, “That’s a good idea. I should have his number somewhere.”

Could this be the ideal platform for Drake to turn things around? A performance at the World Cup is a massive global event and a chance for him to reclaim his story in front of millions of viewers worldwide. This could reinforce why he is still one of the biggest names in music. If this happens, it would symbolize a renewal for Drake, a kind of revenge tour during the world’s most-watched halftime show. Will FIFA reach out to him? Will Drake step up to the challenge? And will Kendrick have anything to say about it? 2026 is shaping up to be quite an exciting year!

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