Nicki Minaj Ties Madonna and Dionne Warwick for Billboard Mark

Hip-hop’s current undisputed queen has her MAC-slathered eyes set on the history books, and she’s already in good company. With her new single “Bed of Lies,” Nicki Minaj joins Madonna and Dionne Warwick for the third most appearances on the Billboard Hot 100 by a woman. The song, which features Skylar Grey, debuted at No. 70, marking her impressive 56th showing on the prestigious chart. Only Aretha Franklin (73 appearances) and Taylor Swift (66) rank higher. Don’t be surprised if some more records from The Pink Print—out December 15—add to her admirable total.

Read it at Billboard.

Common Hearts Jay Electronica: “He’s Timeless Already”

Every day that passes without a Jay Electronica debut album may annoy thirsty hip-hop fanatics, yet Common already has the utmost respect for the N’awlins MC. Com, who invited the 38-year-old MC along on his current Nobody Smiling tour, gushed about Jay Electron’ in a recent interview with Complex. “He’s one of the dopest MCs. I can go back and listen to his raps he did in 2010 and be inspired,” the Chicago rap legend said. “He’s timeless already. His emceeing abilities is high level.” The 13-date Nobody Smiling tour kicked off November 21 and wraps up in New York City on December 10. “To have Jay Electronica on this tour is crazy,” Common says. “He is one of the freshest voices in hip-hop today. He truly is sparking the culture.”

Watch it at Complex.

Q-Tip Welcomes Lil Wayne Into the Zulu Nation

Lil Wayne has reportedly joined the Universal Zulu Nation. Q-Tip took to Twitter to announce Weezy F. Baby’s induction to the international hip-hop awareness organization founded by Afrika Bambaataa back in the ’70s. “Help me in welcoming @LilTunechi to fold of the Zulus,” Tip tweeted. “We need all the help we can get these r URGENT times and if folks are HEARTFELT in lending a face a voice a view so be it! Don’t judge.” Earlier this year, Nas, Freddie Gibbs and Joey Bada$$ also became members of the Zulu Nation.

Read it at MTV News.