21 Savage may be one of the biggest rappers today, but he will never forget the people that made him evolve into such a superstar from back home. He recently took to Instagram to share some throwback pictures of him with Lotto Savage, who reportedly and tragically passed away at the age of 36 this week due to a shooting in Decatur, Georgia. Not much else emerged about the incident or a possible motive, although plenty of people already took to social media to share conspiracy theories and trivialize this loss. While 21 didn't have anything to say on the matter yet, his silence and pure reminiscing says a thousand words. Our sympathies go out to all of Lotto's loved ones and close colleagues.
For those unaware, 21 Savage and Lotto Savage rose like foam in the mid-2010s, putting their Slaughter Gang collective on their backs before the former's blow-up in the mainstream. They go way back, and collaborated with a lot of other Atlanta artists for gritty and grimy bangers. While it's a difficult time right now, they clearly made their legacy a potent one that fans will celebrate and treasure on Lotto's behalf.
Elsewhere, the "Runnin" MC made some big plans for 2025, and we're sure he will carry the memory of Lotto Savage with him everywhere he goes. For example, 21 Savage joined the very last Dreamville Festival in North Carolina as a headliner, which will take place later this year on April 5 and 6. Other big names include J. Cole, Lil Wayne and various Cash Money collaborators, J.I.D, Erykah Badu, GloRilla, Chief Keef, and many more.
Meanwhile, you may have heard about 21 Savage's loyalty in other instances this year, such as a recent shoutout from the battle-berated Drake. "Savage, you the only n***a checkin' on me when we really in some s**t, brother," he rapped on "GIMME A HUG" off of his PARTYNEXTDOOR collab album, $ome $exy $ongs 4 U. The brotherhood that he shared with Lotto and many other Slaughter Gang members is even more potent, and one that will endure for a long time. RIP Lotto Savage.
For artists, industry professionals and music fans alike, the second Thursday of April means one thing: arriving in Indio, California. Once again this year, Billboard is setting the tone for the big weekend by hosting The Arrival, a private, invite only event created to welcome select artists and key figures from the music world just ahead of the festival.
Held at an upscale private estate in Indio, the gathering will spotlight performances from a curated group of electronic acts. The lineup includes fan favorites Louis The Child, UK hitmaker Jonas Blue and rising dance music talent Arlo, all scheduled to take the stage.
Louis The Child plan to mix some of their most recognized tracks such as “It’s Strange” and “Better Not” with brand new material during their performance. The Chicago pair are also preparing to release their sophomore studio album later this year. At the same time, internationally known producer Jonas Blue will deliver a set filled with his signature dance sound, including his 2025 hit “Edge of Desire.” Additional performers who have not yet been revealed are also expected to appear during the night.
Throughout the evening, guests will be able to enjoy a selection of drinks along with a specially curated food menu from Jimmy John’s Dream Rotation lineup. The popular supper club Mary Lou’s, known for its presence in Palm Beach, Miami, Montauk and Aspen among other destinations, will also provide exclusive VIP dining experiences.
The Arrival is intended to serve as a space where leaders from media, music and entertainment can meet and build relationships ahead of three of the most talked about days in the desert. Past editions of the event have attracted notable names such as Charli xcx, Sydney Sweeney, Saweetie, Halsey, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Paris Jackson, G Eazy, Victoria Justice and other well known personalities.
Additional partners helping bring The Arrival to life include Skechers U.S.A., Inc, FanUp, Buldak Ramen, Bandero Tequila, Adobe, Blind Lemon Hard Lemonade, The Beast, Haku Vodka, 196 Vodka Seltzer, Voss Water and Monster Energy. Guests will also have access to a beauty lounge presented in collaboration with ESW Beauty, PanicPanties, Fazit and Clutch Glue.