Atlanta Rapper Rich Homie Quan Dead at 34

The hip-hop community is reeling from the sudden death of rapper Rich Homie Quan, who was found deceased in his Atlanta home on Thursday. Multiple sources have confirmed the tragic news, with online speculation suggesting a possible drug overdose as the cause. However, official confirmation of the cause of death is still pending.

Fellow rapper Boosie BadAzz was one of the first to break the news on social media, expressing his shock and sadness over Quan's passing. "JUST TALKED TO YOU BRA 😓 #tipQUAN Never go forget yo smile n the way talked n of course yo music 💯," BadAzz wrote in a heartfelt tribute on X (formerly Twitter). In another post, he alluded to a potential overdose, stating, "JUST GOT WORD @RichHomieQuan JUST OD ‼️"

JUST GOT WORD @RichHomieQuan JUST OD ‼️JUST TALK TO WUAN THE OTHER DAY #gomissunigga

— Boosie BadAzz (@BOOSIEOFFICIAL) September 5, 2024

Quan, whose real name was Dequantes Devontay Lamar, was just a month shy of his 35th birthday. He was scheduled to perform in his hometown as part of Nick Cannon's Wild 'N Out tour, sharing the stage with other notable artists such as Wacka Flocka and Nardo Wick. His family, understandably devastated by the sudden loss, told TMZ they are "shattered and heartbroken."

YSL Woody pays his respects to Rich Homie Quan following the news of his passing. pic.twitter.com/50PqmkHMIc

— No Jumper (@nojumper) September 5, 2024

The Atlanta native rose to prominence in the rap scene in 2011, with his breakthrough single "Type of Way" climbing to the 50th spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2013. He continued to make waves with subsequent hits like "Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh)" and "Ride Out." Quan also gained recognition as a member of the group Rich Gang, alongside Young Thug, through a Cash Money Records project. His collaborations extended to other big names in the industry, including 2 Chainz and Jacquees.

Even in recent years, Quan remained active in music, releasing his latest single "Ah'Chi" featuring 2 Chainz. He was also slated to testify in the ongoing trial of Young Thug, his former bandmate who is facing charges related to street gang activities.

Playboi Carti paying tribute to Rich Homie Quan via IG 🖤 pic.twitter.com/kSyVoQ89A5

— Kurrco (@Kurrco) September 5, 2024

Quan's journey to music stardom was not without its challenges. An aspiring baseball player in high school, he briefly attended Fort Valley State University before financial constraints led him to pursue music full-time. His personal life was also touched by tragedy in 2014 when his father, Corey Lamar, was shot in a barbershop. The incident was connected to Kenneth "Lil Woody" Copeland, a key witness in the Young Thug trial.

In 2017, Quan faced legal trouble himself when he was arrested in Louisville, Georgia, on felony drug possession charges. However, the case was later dismissed.

Watch: Megan Thee Stallion Puts 'Savage' Spin on Queen Classic for Pepsi

A new Pepsi campaign inspired by Paramount Pictures' upcoming "Gladiator II" kicks off the 2024 NFL season, starring Megan Thee Stallion and NFL superstars Josh Allen, Derrick Henry, Justin Jefferson and Travis Kelce.

Pepsi is turning up the heat this NFL season with a new anthem featuring three-time Grammy Award winner Megan Thee Stallion. Set to the iconic "boom, boom, clap" beat from Queen's "We Will Rock You," Megan's fresh take is already making waves across major music streaming platforms. She's also set to host the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards on Sept. 11, where this track and its music video will be featured prominently.

Known for her chart-topping hits and fierce persona, the rapper is no stranger to the spotlight. From her "Savage" TikTok explosion to collaborations with fashion brands like Coach and Revlon, she's been a force in both the music and advertising worlds. But this time, she's stepping into the gladiator arena, and it’s not just about music — it’s about creating a legacy.

"I'm honored to follow in the footsteps of legends who appeared in this Gladiator campaign 20 years ago and proud to carve out my own legacy," Megan said in a news release announcing the collaboration. "Pepsi really brought the worlds of music, sports, and entertainment together in a powerful way to kick off the new NFL season. It was fun putting my creative spin on such an iconic Queen song, and I can't wait for the Hotties to hear it!"

The ad, produced by Ridley Scott Associates and directed by Jake Scott, draws inspiration from the upcoming "Gladiator II" film. Lamorne Morris and Jake Lacy crack open a can of Pepsi Zero Sugar, and suddenly, they’re in a coliseum with Megan at the helm as Empress. NFL stars including Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald, and New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley scramble for her approval — and a sip of that ice-cold Pepsi — as the battle for game-day supremacy begins.

Jake Scott, no stranger to creating visual spectacles, said, "Bringing the epic world of 'Gladiator II' to life in a modern, dynamic way through this Pepsi campaign was incredibly exciting. We wanted to create a visual spectacle that captured the energy and intensity of the sport while also paying homage to the iconic film and the original Pepsi campaign."

This isn't the first time Pepsi has teamed up with music royalty. From Michael Jackson’s moonwalk to Britney Spears’ “Joy of Pepsi,” the brand has a storied history of blending pop culture with its refreshing beverages. Megan’s new track is set to join the ranks of these legendary moments, adding her own flavor to the mix.

Fans can dive even deeper into the Roman Empire theme with a slew of campaign extensions, including the "My Roman Empire" portrait generator and limited-edition Talking Cans. And, of course, Megan’s "We Will Rock You" version is now available on all major streaming platforms.

See the spot for yourself below.

Motown Legend Pat Lewis, Influential Backup Singer and Soul Star, Dies at 76

Pat Lewis, a Detroit soul singer whose voice graced some of the most iconic recordings of the past six decades, has died. She was 76.

Lewis, renowned as a background vocalist for legends like Aretha Franklin and Isaac Hayes, died unexpectedly Tuesday, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential yet underappreciated figures in American music.

Born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, in 1947, Lewis moved with her family to Detroit in the early 1950s. In the early 1960s, she co-founded the vocal quartet The Adorables alongside her sister Dianne and friends Betty and Jackie Winston.

The group recorded for Golden World Records, laying the foundation for what would be a remarkable, if largely unsung, career in music.

Lewis began her solo career in 1966 with the release of her single "Can't Shake It Loose." But it was her work as a background singer that truly defined her career.

Her break came when she stepped in to provide backing vocals for Stevie Wonder during a session at Motown Records. From that moment, Lewis' voice became a staple on Motown tracks, leading to collaborations with a roster of stars that included Franklin and Hayes.

In the 1970s, Lewis joined Hayes' ensemble, contributing to some of his most memorable recordings. She also became a key collaborator with Franklin, providing backing vocals on two of her most acclaimed albums, "Amazing Grace" and "Young, Gifted and Black."

Lewis' talents extended beyond the microphone. She was also a gifted arranger, praised by her peers for her ability to craft intricate vocal harmonies.

In a heartfelt tribute, producer Ian Levine, who worked extensively with Lewis during the 1980s and beyond, described her as "the kindest, warmest, loveliest lady I ever knew in my life." Levine recalled how Lewis recorded more songs with him than any other artist throughout his 50-year career, becoming not only a close collaborator but a dear friend.

IN LOVING MEMORY OF PAT “PATSY” LEWIS - 1947 - 2024

I have written many obituaries for many artists, but nothing was ever as hard and painful as this was.

My world will never be the same again. pic.twitter.com/O3AdkbLKAw

— Ian Levine (@IanLevine) September 3, 2024

In 1989, Levine spearheaded a Motown reunion project under the Motorcity Records label in the U.K. The project aimed to record new material with former Motown artists. Lewis was instrumental in its success, contributing vocals to an astounding 800 tracks out of the 857 recorded between 1986 and 1992. Her dedication and skill earned her the admiration of many, including Motown luminaries like Sylvia Moy and Johnny Bristol.

Despite the label's eventual decline, Lewis continued to work with Levine, recording gospel tracks and cover versions of classic soul songs. She also performed at Northern Soul venues in the U.K., where she was celebrated as a "Northern Soul Queen." Her occasional tours with Martha Reeves and the Vandellas kept her connected to the music community she loved.

Lewis' influence extended beyond her musical talents. She was known for her loyalty and unwavering support for her friends and collaborators. Levine recounted how Lewis defended him publicly against false accusations, demonstrating the depth of her character and the strength of her convictions.

Her passing has left a void in the music world, but her legacy lives on through the countless recordings she contributed to and the lives she touched. George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic paid tribute to her on social media, stating: “Rest in eternal peace and Detroit Soul, Pat Lewis! A Northern Soul Queen! Farewell, Motor City Sister!”