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DJ Khaled Explains Why He Stayed Neutral In Drake’s Drama With Rick Ross & Future

DJ Khaled kept his distance from last year’s tension between Drake, Rick Ross and Future, telling Fat Joe on the “Joe & Jada” podcast that he refuses to get involved when his longtime collaborators are at odds.

“I love Drake, I love [Rick] Ross, I love Future,” Khaled said on the latest episode of the podcast. “What it feel like is that I didn’t get in that energy. There’s two energies I’m not gonna get in: hate.”

The veteran producer, known for his chart-topping collaborations with all three rappers, made it clear that loyalty doesn’t mean taking sides.

“Those are my brothers. You can question my friendship. How? It’s impossible,” he said.

Khaled, who’s built a career on bringing artists together, said the beefs were less about deep-rooted issues and more about miscommunication.

“A lot of this s### is a misunderstanding and a lot of not [communicating]. And that’s what it be about,” he explained. “When it comes down to DJ Khaled, I’m the one that’s gone’ try to fix it.”

He added, “I love my brothers and my brothers know that. I would love to squash it.”

Khaled has a history of stepping in when things get tense. Years ago, Young Jeezy credited him with helping resolve his feud with Rick Ross, which eventually led to their collaboration on “War Ready.”

While he’s steering clear of the current drama, Khaled is focused on his upcoming album Aalam of God.

He’s already dropped two tracks—one with Post Malone and NBA YoungBoy, and another featuring a lineup of dancehall artists.

NBA YoungBoy Brings Out Sexyy Red In L.A.—Sparks Pregnancy Jokes

Sexyy Red lit up the Crypto.com Arena stage earlier this week during NBA YoungBoy’s “Make America Slime Again Tour” stop in Los Angeles, then lit up Instagram with a post that had people doing double takes.

The St. Louis rapper joined YoungBoy for a surprise appearance during the second night of his sold-out LA shows, delivering crowd-favorite tracks like “Pound Town” and “F My Baby Daddy” to a packed house.

But it was what happened after the show that had social media buzzing.

Red posted a series of photos with YoungBoy and added a caption that sent her followers into a frenzy: “Get me pregnant… who tf just said dat??”

The comment section lit up with jokes and warnings, referencing YoungBoy’s famously large family.

“aht aht you finna b the 12th bm,” one person wrote. Another added, “Don’t do it you gone be BM 35.” A third chimed in, “she serious that’s what make it funnier.”

YoungBoy, 25, has fathered at least 11 children with multiple women, a detail his followers never let him forget. But that didn’t stop Red from stirring the pot with her cheeky caption.

This tour marks a major return for YoungBoy, who is back on the road following his early release from federal prison in March.

He had been serving a 23-month sentence after being convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, a case that stemmed from a 2020 arrest.

His legal troubles took a dramatic turn when former President Trump granted him a full pardon, ending his supervised release. Though his original release date was set for July, his legal team secured his freedom four months ahead of schedule.

Jon B On 2Pac’s Final Verse, Michael Jackson’s Call, Nas’ Pull-Up & 30 Years Of Classic R&B

Jon B is a rarity: a white artist in R&B who never compromised his craft for pop crossover. He stepped away from album-making for more than a decade to prioritize family, and now, returning to a transformed music landscape, he rises like a phoenix. Born Jonathan David Buck, Jon B is back with Waiting on You, a set steeped in classic soul. He brings along vibrant collaborators—Rick Ross, Tank, and Alex Isley—but the album, start to finish, is unmistakably Jon B.

AllHipHop sat down with the R&B mainstay at WonWorld Studios for a conversation that feels both like a reunion and a reset. Fresh off the release of his album Waiting on You, Jon is in classic form—writer, producer, vocalist—reaffirming the warm, soul-first sound that made Bonafide a touchstone in 1995 and still packs venues today.

In this candid talk, the singer revisits a pivotal era when Hip-Hop and R&B learned to share the same room, revealing how his studio session with Tupac Shakur, which turned out to be ‘Pac’s final recorded verse, helped push the line authentically. He salutes mentors and peers (Babyface, Nas, Tank, Donell Jones, Rick Ross) and spotlights rising collaborator Alex Isley, whose tone he calls timeless.

Beyond credits, Jon centers authenticity. He was reared in a classical music household with a lifetime steeped in Black music culture as well as an 18-year marriage that grounds the star between sold-out weekends and school-day routines. Jon B makes a powerful case for R&B that grows up without growing dull. Watch the full interview below or some of the highlights in the edited transcript.

Tupac: The Studio, The Blessing, The Last Verse

Jon B: “Hip-hop and R&B weren’t really fused yet. We didn’t give people a choice…‘take it or leave it.’ Tupac being on the record changed everybody’s mind.”

In the lab with Pac: “We were in the studio two weeks before he went to Vegas, three or four hours in and we were already halfway done. As tough as his persona was, Pac was the nicest, most diligent worker. He was cutting another song in the next room while working on mine.”

Afeni’s green light: “I was reluctant to put it out after he died, didn’t want to exploit my man. Afeni Shakur told me, ‘My son loved that song. He wanted it to come out.’ That’s what made me release it.”

Creative push: “I’d drift from the melody and Pac would lock me in, ‘Nah, it goes like this…’ He coached and produced me too.”

Babyface & The 18-Year-Old Major-Label Run

Jon B: “Babyface was and is a mentor—vocally and musically. Signing to Yab Yum Entertainment with Tracy Edmonds opened the door to Epic Records. I was 18 walking into Sony like, ‘Whoa’…publishing deal, record deal, Learjet flights to New York.”

Michael Jackson: Remix + Phone Call

Jon B: “I remixed ‘You Are Not Alone’—they didn’t ask many people. Michael called the studio: ‘I love it—it’s different from the original and I like it.’ Later I shook his hand at the BRITs. He’s the goat of goats—my first favorite artist.”

Nas Pulled Up to the House: “Finer Things”

Jon B: “Nas came to my spot—we’re playing pool, chilling. I play him the beat. He goes, ‘That’s some male Sade—smooth. I can rock over that.’
He wrote the song twice. First version was dope; he said, ‘I hate it, I’ll redo it.’ The second time, he asked for names, cars, visuals—turned it cinematic.”

“If I was your man, your knowledge would expand till we both are equal… There’s three things on my list… Number one, you got to be real… Number two, be who you are… Number three, give me peace and I’ll show you the world.” —Nas on “Finer Things” as recited by Jon B

Authenticity, Race, and Kicking Down Doors

Jon B: “Early on my complexion was a challenge, people made jokes. I didn’t see other artists in my lane getting that. I feel like I knocked down walls so the next man didn’t have to.
Before there was a Justin Timberlake or Robin Thicke, I’d already dropped three R&B albums with platinum singles. This isn’t dress-up. I’ve lived R&B and Hip-Hop since junior high.”

The New Album: Classic Soul with Heavy Friends

Jon B: “Waiting on You is me bringing it back to what you know me for. Guests include Rick Ross, Donell Jones, Tank, and Alex Isley (Ernie Isley’s daughter).

Tank pulled up to my studio. I asked which verse he wanted—he said, ‘You bodied those. Let me put a bridge on it.’ Then he gave it the bridge of life-piano, strings-uplifted the record.
Alex has this classic, Sade-esque subtlety but her own jazziness. She heard a joint and cut it exactly as I wrote it. That’s the best compliment to a songwriter.”

Marriage, Family, and the Business That Actually Works

Jon B: “I’ve been married 18 years—two daughters (18 and 11). My wife is my manager—clothes, videos, bookings. If it wasn’t for her, this might not be the same interview.
We keep it classy, no reality shows, but we did our first magazine cover together and hit Sherri and Tamron Hall to celebrate our 18th.
Real talk: a lot of rappers managed by their wives are the ones doing well. Corporations can take 20% and not really pull for you. Your wife will, because it’s her household too.”

30 Years In—And Still Selling Out

Jon B: “Thirty years since Bonafide—shows are sold out, people singing album cuts that weren’t singles. I’m going to sing my heart out until I can’t. The celebration continues.”

August Alsina Defends His Relationship With Younger Boyfriend—Slams Grooming Accusations

August Alsina shut down grooming accusations and confirmed his relationship with rumored boyfriend Zu, after a photo post sparked backlash over their age gap and timeline.

The New Orleans native, who turns 33 later this month, faced criticism online after hinting he and Zu have been together for nearly five years. That detail led social media users to question when the relationship began, prompting Zu to directly address the speculation.

“I’m a grown ass man, with his own mind and free will,” Zu wrote in a lengthy Notes app message shared to social media. “I met August when I was already of age, an adult. Aug didn’t even know me when I was 16 or 17…not sure where that came from.”

He confirmed their romantic relationship, adding, “Yea there’s a slight age difference but y’all pick and chooses who to judge when it comes to that. We will have known each other for 5 years toward the end of the year, so he’s speaking in future terms because that’s where we plan to make it.” He ended the post with, “Hope this clears up any confusion.”

But the internet didn’t quiet down.

One user commented, “‘August is my boyfriend’ gone head and clear the AIR for anyone confused.”

Others remained skeptical, questioning the maturity gap and timing.

One critic wrote, “it really doesn’t babe regardless if he met you at 18 or 19 you weren’t grown and he was grown as the f###.”

Zu clapped back, “Awwwe cry me a river.”

The exchange continued with the critic responding, “i’m not sad i wasn’t groomed or dating a predator i like people in my age group.”

Zu replied, “Everybody entitled to the opinion, ik what it is..and I’m living the greatest life.”

August Alsina Weighs In Following Backlash

Another user added, “This don’t clear up anything. If anything makes y’all sound more guilty.”

Alsina didn’t stay silent. He fired back in a separate post, writing, “Guilty? This word implies that you thought yall held some sort of court or dominion over two grown ass people to be judged for some sort of outcome…. The level of delusion and narcissism yall live in is psychotic! Yall don’t even hold authority in your own life… let alone, MINE! Heal & pay ya rent family!”

He also revealed, “Zu lied to me about how old he was when we first clicked up. Granted, he was over 18… but the fact still remains. & I found out later, upon meeting the family.”

Alsina dismissed the “predator” label and made it clear that Zu is with him by choice. “Play somewhere, where it’s safe,” he added, telling critics to stay out of their relationship.

Donald Trump’s Hair Has Internet Running Wild With Conspiracies

Donald Trump’s hair and health are the internet’s latest obsession and the theories are wilder than ever.

The internet has been set ruminating over speculation after new photos of the former president surfaced, showing him looking noticeably different. Social media wasted no time letting the jokes fly. Comments like “Where is his hair?,” “That is not a healthy man,” and “Grim Reaper do your thing” spread like wildfire, making Trump the reluctant star of another viral storm.

Trump disappeared from public view for a few days, which only created more conspiracy. When he finally popped back up, the pictures didn’t do him any favors. His hair appeared thinner. Some even said that wig is gone! Axnd that familiar orange glow seemed dimmer than usual. The hat he wore looked tight enough to be covering something. Some of the comments I saw wondered if Trumpy had quietly gone bald.

I know you heard this next rumor. A lot of folks online are convinced he’s dealing with some kind of health crisis. His hand, which has been photographed a lot, looks like it has a recurring growth. Theories are running laps around the truth, which we do not know. They go from minor illness to something far more serious. One extreme MAGA commented, “Cut that hand off, damn it!” They want to save the president. A lot of people do not want that.

READ ALSO: Donald Trump’s DHS Slams Kim Kardashian Over ICE Raid Criticism

The Trump doppelgänger theory made its way back to the front. Some claim the man seen on the golf course yesterday wasn’t him at all, just a stand-in double keeping up appearances while the real Trump rests. The man is almost 80. Those naps get longer and longer…until the big nap.

Seriously, the timing couldn’t be worse. While the world deals with mass shootings, wars and global instability, Trump’s priority seemed to be hitting the golf course. Is there something we should know?

We are in the distraction era.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s Shocking Weight Loss Starts Rumors, Truth Prevails

The first thing I saw was, “He’s not on ‘roids anymore.” The internet can be a terrible place. So began my trip to find the truth in the rumors.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson traded in his normally giant physique for a leaner look at the Venice Film Festival. Like the internet dark places I peruse, audiences were stunned. The 53-year-old wrestler-turned-actor slimmed-down for his role as MMA legend Mark Kerr in the new film “The Smashing Machine.”

READ ALSO: The Rock Has Bars: Tech N9ne Reveals Creative Process Behind 2021’s “Face Off”

The transformation was like a shot across the world. Somehow, I think it was apart of the marketing of this movie. I had not heard of it until now. Also, it could be his run and being taken seriously as a thespian. At Saturday’s Miu Miu Women’s Tales event, The Rock stepped out in a blue button-up and black trouser. He has not looked like this in decades. He was joined by co-star Emily Blunt, who plays Kerr’s ex-wife, Dawn Staples.

Social media immediately started calling him “The Pebble.” Honestly, I think the jokes are corny, because “The Rock” is still a big dude. I am sure he could bust a couple skulls if needed. But that’s another story.

The film tells the story of Kerr’s rise in UFC and MMA and his struggles with prescription drug addiction. But according to Johnson, the story cuts deeper than cage fights.

At a Monday press conference, Johnson opened up about taking on the most challenging role of his career. “When you’re in Hollywood — as we all know, it had become about box office. And you chase the box office, and the box office can be very loud and it can become very resounding and it can push you into a category and into a corner,” he said.

“I just had this burning desire and voice that was saying, ‘What if there is more and what if I can?’” Johnson continued. “Sometimes it takes people that who you love and respect, like Emily and Benny, to say that you can.”

He admitted the role forced him to confront questions he’d avoided. “I looked around a few years ago and I started to think, you know, am I living my dream or am I living other people’s dreams? You come to that recognition and I think you can either fall in line — ‘Well, it’s status quo, things are good, I don’t want to rock the boat’ — or go, I want to live my dreams now and do what I wanna do and tap into the stuff that I want to tap into.”

This reminds me of Sly Stallone in “Copland.” That was a good movie but did not turn him into that heavy actor he sought to be. Hopefully The Rock gets some grace.

“I’ve been scared to go deep and intense and raw until now, until I had this opportunity,” he said at the press conference. Dame Dash would pause him, but we’re going to let it slide.

“The Smashing Machine” is set to hit theaters Oct. 3.

Sidney “Omen” Brown, Grammy-Winning Producer For Beyoncé, Drake & Lil Wayne, Dead At 49

Sidney Brown, the Grammy Award-winning producer known as Omen, has died. He was 49.

Details of his passing have not been made public, but his friends and peers have expressed their dismay and sorrow over his death.

A Harlem native, Omen carved out a reputation as one of the most versatile and sought-after producers of his generation. His work spanned Hip-Hop and R&B, touching projects from industry giants such as Drake, Beyoncé, Lil Wayne, Ludacris, Fabolous, Action Bronson, Redman and Mýa.

Ethyl’s a popular venue in Harlem where Omen would DJ made a public post expressing their sadness as a staff.

“We are beyond [heartbroken],” the venue wrote on Facebook. “Omen has been a major part of what made Ethyl’s beat from the very beginning. Sidney ‘Omen’ Brown was not only a DJ who could get our Dance floor jumping, but he was also a Grammy Award Winning Producer who worked with Beyonce, Lil’ Wayne and …helped write and produce (‘Tell It Like It Is’) for Ludacris!”

Early Career

Born August 21, 1976, Brown began making noise in the late 1990s and early 2000s when his beats appeared on early Roc-A-Fella Records releases. He produced “Everybody” on Memphis Bleek’s Coming of Age and “No 1 Can Compare” on Amil’s debut All Money Is Legal.

By the early 2000s, Omen’s production was in steady demand. He contributed “Change You or Change Me” and “Why Wouldn’t I” to Fabolous’ Street Dreams and crafted “Taste This” for Mýa’s Moodring. His sound also reached Keith Murray’s He’s Keith Murray with “Swagga Back.” In 2002, Omen scored the Roc-A-Fella/Universal Pictures comedy Paper Soldiers, helping set the tone for the Roc’s cinematic foray.

Recording Academy Recognition

Omen’s breakthrough came in 2006 when Ludacris tapped him for “Tell It Like It Is,” a standout on the rapper’s double album Release Therapy. That project won the 2007 Grammy Award for Best Rap Album, securing Omen his first Grammy. Around the same time, he landed another placement with Redman on “Soopaman Luva 6” featuring Hurricane G.

Mainstream Impact

A pivotal career shift happened when Omen connected with Noah “40” Shebib. Through 40, he was introduced to a then-rising star Drake. Omen co-produced “Shut It Down” featuring The-Dream on Drake’s 2010 debut album Thank Me Later.

That same period, Omen collaborated with 40 on Lil Wayne’s “I’m Single.” The track first surfaced on Wayne’s No Ceilings mixtape before being re-released on I Am Not a Human Being, which hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200. The song also received an MTV2 video premiere in 2010, further expanding Omen’s mainstream visibility.

Beyond those high-profile placements, Omen’s beats touched artists across multiple generations and styles, from underground mainstays like Immortal Technique to R&B royalty like Beyoncé. His ability to move fluidly between the streets and the charts made him a trusted collaborator in both worlds.

Legacy

Across nearly three decades, Omen left an indelible mark on Hip-Hop and R&B. Known for his humility and work ethic, he built a catalog that reflected both soul and street edge, shaping the sound of an era while helping deliver some of the genre’s most memorable records. He was a beloved son of Harlem that touched lives, including AllHipHop.

Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.

JAY-Z & Beyoncé Slammed For Canoodling With Ivanka Trump & Jared Kushner At Casino Gala

JAY-Z found himself at the center of online chatter after he and wife Beyoncé were allegedly spotted seated near Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner during the REFORM Alliance Casino Night and Gala at Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City on Saturday (September 13), an event that raised $20 million for criminal justice reform.

The high-profile fundraiser, hosted by JAY-Zs, Meek Mill and Michael Rubin, and emceed by Kevin Hart, drew a star-studded guest list. But it wasn’t the performances or speeches that had people talking — it was the seating chart.

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A post shared by Michael Rubin (@michaelrubin)

Photos from the gala began circulating online, with some claiming the power couple sat close to Donald Trump’s daughter and son-in-law. Other reports suggested the two Grammy Award winners were seated alone in the center of the room. The ambiguity didn’t stop critics from weighing in.

“Guess the Kamala endorsement was just to get good PR,” one user posted on X, formerly Twitter. Another added, “All that campaigning for Kamala was clearly a front.”

Supporters quickly pushed back, pointing to Beyoncé’s past political involvement.

“Beyonce wasn’t dancing her ass off while being 8 months pregnant with twins to support Hillary Clinton’s campaign for you h*es to be calling her MAGA,” one user wrote. Another chimed in, “‘Beyoncé is maga’ the same Beyoncé that attended and gave a FULL SPEECH at Kamala’s rally? the same Beyonce that sent a cease and desist on trump for using ‘Freedom’ on his campaign? are we crazy?”

Beyoncé did appear at a Kamala Harris rally in Houston last October, where she joined Kelly Rowland onstage and introduced the then-vice presidential candidate.

“It’s time for America to sing a new song. Are y’all ready to add your voice to the new American song?” she said. “Let’s do this. Ladies and gentlemen, give a big, loud Texas welcome to the next president of the United States, Vice President Kamala Harris.”

The REFORM Alliance, founded in 2019 by JAY-Z, Meek Mill, Michael Rubin and others, works to transform probation and parole laws in the United States. The organization aims to reduce the number of people trapped in the criminal justice system through legislative advocacy and policy reform.

Automation in Supplier Management: The Strategic Shift Toward Smarter Operations

In the age of digital transformation, automation is not just a buzzword—it’s the engine driving efficiency, accuracy, and scale across all aspects of business operations. When it comes to supplier management, the transition to automation is proving to be one of the most impactful shifts organizations can make. An automation supplier solution modernizes the way companies handle supplier onboarding, invoice processing, compliance tracking, and communication, ultimately reducing manual workload and improving supplier relationships.

This article delves into what supplier automation means, why it matters, the key processes it improves, and how solutions like MontoPay are enabling companies to embrace automation with confidence and ease.

What Does “Automation Supplier” Mean?

An automation supplier or supplier automation solution refers to software or platforms that use technology to streamline, digitize, and manage supplier-related workflows with minimal manual intervention. Instead of relying on spreadsheets, emails, and human follow-up to manage a supplier base, automation tools standardize and accelerate the entire process—from onboarding and order management to invoicing and payments.

These systems use workflows, validations, alerts, and integrations with existing ERP or procurement platforms to create a smooth and repeatable process for interacting with vendors.

Why Automating Supplier Processes Is Essential

Managing suppliers involves a wide range of tasks, including vendor registration, compliance document collection, purchase order distribution, invoice matching, payment approvals, and performance tracking. When these processes are handled manually, they lead to:

  • Human error and data inconsistencies
  • Delayed payments and missed discounts
  • Frustrated suppliers due to lack of visibility
  • High administrative costs
  • Poor compliance and increased risk exposure

By automating supplier workflows, businesses can eliminate these inefficiencies and instead build a streamlined, responsive, and scalable procurement function.

Core Functions of Supplier Automation

An effective automation supplier solution typically focuses on the following key functions:

1. Supplier Onboarding

Automation simplifies the process of registering new suppliers. Vendors are guided through a self-service portal to submit company information, banking details, tax documents, and certifications. Automated checks ensure all required documentation is submitted and validated before approval.

2. Invoice Management

Suppliers can submit electronic invoices directly through the portal. These are automatically matched against purchase orders and receipts using three-way matching, flagging exceptions or discrepancies. This drastically reduces errors and speeds up approval cycles.

3. Payment Processing

Once invoices are approved, automated systems schedule and execute payments according to agreed terms. Suppliers can view payment status in real time, reducing the need for inquiry emails and phone calls.

4. Compliance Tracking

Automation ensures that vendor documents (insurance certificates, licenses, tax forms) are kept up to date. Expiration alerts and automated re-submission workflows help maintain compliance without constant manual follow-up.

5. Performance Monitoring

Dashboards and analytics allow companies to monitor vendor performance metrics like delivery timelines, invoice accuracy, and responsiveness, helping them make informed procurement decisions.

Benefits of Supplier Automation

1. Significant Time Savings

Manual supplier management consumes a considerable amount of time—especially in invoice approval, onboarding, and responding to inquiries. Automation frees up internal teams to focus on strategic tasks rather than paperwork.

2. Reduced Costs

Automation cuts administrative overhead, lowers the risk of overpayments or duplicate invoices, and improves opportunities for early payment discounts—leading to tangible cost savings across departments.

3. Improved Accuracy and Audit Readiness

Automated systems enforce data validation and business rules, reducing the chance of errors. This also provides a digital trail of every interaction, making audits faster, easier, and less stressful.

4. Faster Payments, Better Supplier Relationships

Vendors value predictability. Automated systems allow for faster invoice approvals and on-time payments, which in turn lead to stronger supplier partnerships and better negotiating positions.

5. Scalability

Manual processes don’t scale well. Automation enables companies to handle a growing number of suppliers without adding headcount, making it ideal for fast-growing or global businesses.

Supplier Automation Use Cases Across Industries

No matter the industry, supplier automation can bring transformative benefits:

  • Manufacturing: Automate parts ordering, inventory checks, and supplier scorecards.
  • Retail: Speed up invoice matching for high-volume transactions with hundreds of vendors.
  • Healthcare: Maintain accurate, up-to-date records for a regulated supplier environment.
  • Construction: Track subcontractor compliance and payment across multiple job sites.
  • Technology: Accelerate vendor onboarding and procurement for global suppliers.

Whether managing five suppliers or five thousand, automation brings consistency and control.

Choosing the Right Automation Supplier Solution

When selecting a supplier automation platform, here are some key features to consider:

  • Intuitive user experience for both suppliers and internal users
  • Customizable workflows for approvals, validations, and exception handling
  • Integration with ERPs like SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or Microsoft Dynamics
  • Real-time tracking of payments, invoices, and document statuses
  • Security protocols to protect sensitive supplier data
  • Analytics tools for insights into performance, spend, and risks

A great platform not only digitizes tasks—it gives you control, visibility, and agility.

From Manual to Modern: Making the Transition

Implementing supplier automation doesn’t require a complete system overhaul. Many businesses start with a phased approach:

  1. Digitize invoice submission
  2. Introduce automated validations
  3. Integrate with existing financial software
  4. Expand to include onboarding and compliance management
  5. Leverage analytics and dashboards for decision-making

This incremental transformation allows businesses to adopt automation at a pace that aligns with their operational and technical capabilities.

How MontoPay Supports Supplier Automation

MontoPay offers a full-featured automation platform designed specifically for supplier and vendor management. With powerful tools for onboarding, invoicing, compliance, and communication, MontoPay allows companies to eliminate bottlenecks and achieve full process transparency.

MontoPay integrates seamlessly with leading ERP systems, offers multilingual support for global operations, and provides customizable workflows to fit your internal processes. Whether you’re a mid-sized business or a large enterprise, MontoPay scales to your needs and evolves with your business.

Our mission is simple: to help companies move faster, operate smarter, and build stronger supplier ecosystems through the power of automation.

Final Thoughts

Supplier automation is no longer a luxury—it’s a strategic necessity. From boosting efficiency to improving vendor satisfaction, automation unlocks capabilities that manual systems simply can’t match. Organizations that invest in supplier automation today are setting themselves up for success tomorrow.

With MontoPay, your business can gain all the benefits of supplier automation—without the complexity. Take control of your vendor operations, streamline your workflows, and create a foundation for growth.

Vampire Chords on Guitar

How to strum clean, steady and expressive on classical, acoustic and electric

Playing vampire chords well is not only about knowing the shapes. The way you hold the guitar, the way you strike the strings, and how patiently you repeat the motion until it becomes natural will decide how good it sounds. Below is a clear guide that focuses on healthy grip, musical strumming, and a simple practice routine that works for classical, acoustic and electric guitars.

Setup and grip that help your strumming

  1. Sit or stand tall, shoulders loose, guitar close to the body. Keep the neck angled slightly upward so the fretting wrist can stay relaxed.
  2. Fretting hand, place the thumb behind the neck roughly opposite the middle finger, not wrapped over. Arch the fingers so each tip presses just behind the fret. Lighten the squeeze as soon as the note rings to avoid tension.
  3. Pick grip for acoustic or electric, hold a medium pick between the side of the index finger and the pad of the thumb. Only a few millimeters should peek out. The wrist is soft, the motion comes from a mix of wrist and a little forearm. Think of brushing across strings rather than digging in.
  4. Fingerstyle option for classical, shape P I M A over the strings. Keep nails smooth and at a slight angle to avoid harshness.

The musical feel of vampire

Most versions of vampire move from an intimate verse feel to a bigger chorus. Use dynamics to tell that story. Start with soft strokes or broken chords, then open up your strum as the arrangement grows.

Count in four. Subdivide quietly in your head as one and two and three and four and. This gives you a grid to place the pick. Even when you skip a stroke, keep the hand moving down on the numbers and up on the ands. That continuous motion is the secret to steady time.

Two reliable strum patterns

Pattern A, gentle verse feel
Count, one two and three and four and
Motion, down down up rest up down up
Tip, mute lightly with the side of the palm near the bridge to keep it intimate.

Pattern B, fuller chorus feel
Count, one and two and three and four and
Motion, down down up up down up
Tip, lean into beats two and four. Let the pick glide across the top four strings on the lighter strokes to keep it clear.

Use the chord shapes you already have for vampire and test each pattern. If the song key or capo changes between versions, the strum ideas still work.

Classical, acoustic and electric, what to adjust

Classical guitar
For a warm verse color, use a thumb sweep downward for the beat and a quick brush of index and middle for the up. To widen the chorus, fan the fingers for a fuller brush. Keep the wrist loose and let the forearm guide the larger moves. Add light rest strokes on bass notes when you want extra weight on the root.

Steel string acoustic
Choose a thin to medium pick if you want more shimmer, medium for a balanced attack. Strum closer to the fingerboard for a softer tone in the verse, then move nearer to the bridge as you open up. Use selective strumming, sometimes hit only the top three or four strings so the harmony breathes.

Electric guitar
Lower gain keeps chords articulate. Use both hands to control noise, fretting hand releases pressure a touch between hits, picking hand rests the side of the palm on low strings when needed. Electric responds to very small motions, so keep the arc tight and focus on even sixteenth note movement in the wrist.

Chord clarity checklist

  1. Ring each chord one string at a time before you strum. Any buzz means finger too far from the fret or not arched enough. Fix that first.
  2. Strum then quickly mute with the fretting hand to hear if any string rings longer than the rest. Even decay sounds more professional.
  3. Practice changes between the two most common chord pairs in the song. Loop each pair for one minute at a time, no gap between changes.

Timing and dynamics that make it musical

  1. Start your metronome at sixty to seventy beats per minute. Play Pattern A for four bars, rest one bar, then repeat. When it feels easy, move up by five beats.
  2. Use accents on two and four with a slightly deeper downstroke. This gives groove without extra volume everywhere.
  3. Add controlled mutes. Lightly touch the strings with the strumming hand right after a stroke to create short percussive chords. Place these on the and of two or the and of four to push the chorus forward.

Common hurdles and quick fixes

• Scratching or harsh tone, reduce how much pick is exposed and tilt it a little so it glides.
• Rushing the ups, keep the hand moving even on strokes you do not play. Count aloud until it locks.
• Dead strings, lift the fretting wrist away from the neck a touch so unused fingers do not touch adjacent strings.
• Fatigue, check the right forearm and shoulder. If they feel tight, you are pressing too hard. The pick should feel like a brush, not a shovel.

A short routine for steady progress

  1. Warm up with eight bars of muted strums while counting aloud. Aim for identical volume on every stroke.
  2. Play Pattern A on the verse chord loop for two minutes. Record fifteen seconds on your phone and listen for timing and noise.
  3. Switch to Pattern B on the chorus loop for two minutes. Add accents on two and four.
  4. Combine verse and chorus back to back, still with the metronome. Use the guitar volume or touch to shift from soft to strong.
  5. Finish with one minute of transitions only. Change chords every two beats without breaking the hand motion.

Put it all together

Good vampire chords are the result of simple elements done well. Sit or stand comfortably, keep the fretting hand clean and relaxed, move the strumming hand in a steady pendulum, and shape the sound with dynamics that fit the verse and chorus. Give yourself permission to repeat the same motion many times. Consistent practice builds even timing, even timing makes the harmony ring, and once the harmony rings you can focus on emotion and storytelling.

Take the pattern that matches your version, start slow, repeat with patience, and the song will sit under your fingers on classical, acoustic or electric with the same confident feel.

The Cool Kids Reveal New “Hi Top Fade” Album Arrives Next Month Via A-Trak’s Label

Chuck Inglish and Sir Michael Rocks—collectively known as The Cool Kids—have announced their first new album in three years, Hi Top Fade, will arrive October 10 via Fool’s Gold Records.

According to a recent interview with SPIN, the 15-track project sprouted from a side collaboration with Mannie Fresh and Fool’s Gold founder A-Trak, who’d recruited the duo for another project.

“We kind of started working backward,” Mikey said. “While we were doing the Mannie project, Chuck was like, ‘Yo, what if we drop another album before this one to heat things up and make it a prequel?’ After the first two tracks, we figured we got something special on our hands, so we doubled down and focused more on another Cool Kids album.”

From there, the duo bounced around Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Chicago, laying down the tracks that would become Hi Top Fade. The album marks a return to the group’s early sonic DNA—stripped-down beats, heavy 808s and a nostalgic nod to their late-2000s rise.

The Cool Kids’ journey hasn’t been without turbulence. In 2008, the duo found themselves locked in a legal standoff with Chocolate Industries, delaying their debut album, When Fish Ride Bicycles, by three years. Despite the setback, their 2008 EP, The Bake Sale, and several mixtapes preserved their momentum.

“Back then, we were in between all that indie label drama and it just didn’t work out,” Mikey said. “This time, we saw that opportunity to reset the timeline and do this s### right.”

The rollout for Hi Top Fade began in July with the release of “Banana in the Tailpipe” featuring Seafood Sam. August brought the second single, “Foil Bass” and on Friday (September 19), they’ll drop “95 South” featuring A-Trak and Sango, with a video directed by GL-Joe, the same videographer behind their 2007 breakout visual “Black Mags.”

While Chuck has explored other creative lanes, including his Vanilla Is Black project, he’s now fully locked in on The Cool Kids’ next moves.

“I think a lot of artists dream of doing other things,” Chuck said. “Growing up, I watched Pharrell do it and, more recently, Tyler [The Creator]. They were able to cover all these bases. I want to do that, too. But our [the Cool Kids] sound was always what I did best.”

As Sir Michael Rocks explained, The Cool Kids’ bond has kept them grounded.

“We got ravaged by a lot of things,” Mikey said. “We were victims of predatory industry stuff. We are victims of not knowing how to navigate through this business with the type of people that you have to deal with in the music industry. We were just kids who made good music. We saw other artists stealing our ideas and record labels stealing our money. It was tough.”

“But the thing that would take us back to a place of alignment and balance was when we would get together. And that didn’t even have to be for a recording or musical reason—just together anywhere in the same space. That’s where we figured out just how strong our friendship actually was.”

The Cool Kids formed in the mid-2000s after connecting over MySpace and a shared love for golden era Hip-Hop With roots in Detroit and Chicago, they stood out for a retro-meets-futuristic style, blending influences like Boom Bap, G-Funk, house and the Neptunes, capturing the blog era’s zeitgeist and inspiring a generation of independent artists and fans through their minimalist beats, playful lyrics and distinct fashion.

Beyond their influential work as a group, The Cool Kids have collaborated with the likes of Freddie Gibbs, Mac Miller and Chance The Rapper. In 2022, they released a triple album—Before S### Got Weird (Chapter 1)Baby Oil Staircase (Chapter 2) and Chillout (Chapter 3), further cementing their status as masters of their craft.

Pre-order Hi Top Fade here. (Featured image by: Josh SPNR)

Thundercat Roars Back With First New Music In 2 Years

Thundercat returned Monday (September 15) with two fresh singles, “I Wish I Didn’t Waste Your Time” and “Children of the Baked Potato” featuring Remi Wolf, marking his first original music in two years and setting the stage for his upcoming North American tour.

Both songs were released through Brainfeeder and include production from Grammy Award-winning producer Greg Kurstin. “I Wish I Didn’t Waste Your Time” leans into Thundercat’s signature blend of mellow bass grooves and falsetto vocals, while “Children of the Baked Potato” brings a more animated energy, driven by Wolf’s dynamic delivery and a nod to a legendary Los Angeles jazz venue.

“She’s a child of the Baked Potato like me,” Thundercat said of Wolf. “She knew exactly what the song needed. And it was wild to watch her make it happen. The more I listen to the song, it’s clear there was no one better I could have picked.”

The track’s title pays tribute to The Baked Potato, a small but legendary jazz club in Studio City known for its baked potato menu and decades-long history of hosting top-tier musicians. The venue has long been a touchstone for Thundercat, who credits it as a major influence on his musical upbringing.

The song debuted on Shibuya TV’s massive outdoor screen in Tokyo’s central district, along with 42 screens at Miyashita Park. The rollout included an in-person viewing experience and an interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music’s New Music Daily show, where Thundercat and Wolf discussed the collaboration.

Born Stephen Bruner, Thundercat is a prodigious bassist, singer and producer known for his genre-blending approach to jazz, funk and R&B. A former member of the crossover thrash band Suicidal Tendencies, he gained wider recognition for his solo work and collaborations with artists like Kendrick Lamar, Flying Lotus, Erykah Badu and Mac Miller.

His 2015 album, The Beyond / Where the Giants Roam, and 2017’s Drunk earned critical acclaim, with the latter featuring the viral hit “Them Changes.” In 2020, he released It Is What It Is, which won Best Progressive R&B Album at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards. Thundercat’s contributions to Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly also helped shape one of Hip-Hop’s most celebrated albums of the last decade.

Thundercat North America Tour Dates

October 15 — Atlanta, GA — Coca—Cola Roxy

October 17 — Miami, FL — III Points Festival

October 25 — Brooklyn, NY — Brooklyn Paramount

October 28 — Washington D.C. — The Anthem

October 29 — Philadelphia, PA — Franklin Music Hall

October 30 — Boston, MA — Roadrunner

November 1 — Toronto, ON — Massey Hall

November 7 — Chicago, IL — Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom

November 11— Denver, CO — Fillmore Auditorium

November 16— Los Angeles, CA — Camp Flog Gnaw

Charleston White Mocks Charlie Kirk’s Death & Suspect’s Race in Viral Video

Charleston White filmed himself driving through Florida while mocking the killing of Charlie Kirk and taunting the fact that the alleged shooter is white, a video that has since spread widely across social media platforms.

“Charlie Kirk was killed by his own guy,” White shouted from his car window. “I just want to remind you, Charlie Kirk was killed by his own guy. What the f### can they say? He was taken out by his own little white babies… We having fun and living life. Don’t nobody give a damn about Kirk but y’all.”

The video, which shows White laughing and yelling at pedestrians, has reignited backlash over his previous comments about Kirk’s death. In an earlier clip, White made a series of inflammatory remarks.

“I don’t give a f### about Kirk’s death,” he said. “N####, I don’t give a f### about no white man dying. […] I don’t give a f### about no white boy dying, I don’t give a f### about no peckerwood. […] F### his kids, I don’t give a f### about that white boy’s kids. […] F### Charlie Kirk’s babies.

“All the poor n##### that’s died? […] I don’t give a f### about white on white crime. White people don’t care about Black on Black crime. F### that white boy and his death. ‘He had two kids.’ So? King Von did too. F### his babies too. N####, I’m having fun.”

Kirk, a conservative commentator and founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University on Wednesday (May 15). Authorities later named 22-year-old Tyler Robinson as the primary suspect in the homicide investigation.

The killing prompted a wave of public tributes from political figures and supporters. Donald Trump addressed the loss on his Truth Social platform.

“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead,” Trump wrote. “No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”

EXCLUSIVE: Lawyer Says Damon Dash’s Life Is Fair Game In Bankruptcy Battle

Damon Dash may soon see more than his money on the line—his personal story and image could be up for grabs in his ongoing bankruptcy case in Florida.

Attorneys for some of Dash’s creditors argue that the former Roc-A-Fella Records executive failed to disclose his “life rights” in his Chapter 7 filing, claiming those rights could be sold to help pay off more than $20 million in debts.

The legal team states that Dash’s public persona and career history possess significant commercial value, particularly given his ties to Jay-Z and the legacy of Roc-A-Fella.

Christopher Brown, an attorney representing multiple judgment creditors, accused Damon Dash of omitting key assets and providing misleading information in his bankruptcy petition.

“The debtor has failed to disclose his life story rights,” Brown wrote in the filing, adding that Dash’s statements about a biopic based on his life prove he knows the rights exist and that they hold value.

Brown pointed to Dash’s public comments about developing a film based on his life, referencing 2022 media coverage about a potential Roc-A-Fella movie.

He claims Damon Dash intentionally left out these rights from his asset list, which would make them eligible for liquidation.

The filing also accuses Dash of listing a UPS Store mailbox instead of his actual residence and failing to report business interests already seized by the U.S. Marshal for public auction.

Brown alleges Dash’s bankruptcy filing is a tactic to delay or block creditors from collecting on court-ordered judgments.

“Debtor’s bankruptcy filing is a transparent attempt to frustrate the collection of final judgments,” Brown stated, comparing Dash’s case to that of Alex Jones, whose defamation-related debts were also ruled non-dischargeable in bankruptcy court in a billion-dollar lawsuit brought by victims of

Brown emphasized that the automatic stay triggered by the bankruptcy filing does not prevent the auction of Dash’s corporate assets already in government custody.

If the court agrees, Damon Dash could lose control over how his own story is told.

Lil Nas X Enters Rehab After Nude L.A. Stroll That Left Three Officers Injured

Lil Nas X is reportedly undergoing inpatient treatment at a facility outside California as he navigates felony charges tied to a bizarre early morning incident in Los Angeles.

The 26-year-old rapper (real name Montero Hill) appeared in court Monday (September 15) via his legal team, who confirmed he’s currently receiving care out of state.

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Shellie Samuels approved a change to his release terms, allowing him to remain in treatment while awaiting trial.

“Defendant is allowed to remain out of state as long as he remains in treatment,” Judge Samuels said, according to Rolling Stone. The court sealed the specifics of Lil Nas X’s care. His next hearing is scheduled for November.

Lil Nas X was arrested on August 21 after police responded to reports of a naked man walking along Ventura Boulevard in Studio City around 5:40 a.m.

Prosecutors say Lil Nas X resisted arrest and injured three officers during the encounter. He now faces three felony counts of battery on a police officer and one felony count of resisting an executive officer. If convicted, he could serve up to five years in prison.

TMZ published video footage showing Lil Nas X in underwear and cowboy boots, at one point wearing a traffic cone on his head. The footage quickly circulated online.

Lil Nas X’s attorney, Drew Findling, addressed the rapper’s condition outside the courtroom.

“You heard the ‘treatment’ word,” he said. “We’re doing what is best for Montero from a personal standpoint and a professional standpoint, but most importantly, for his well-being.

“He is surrounded by an amazing family, an amazing team of people that care about him and love him. And we’re just addressing those issues, it’s really as simple as that. He’s had a great life, and he’ll continue to have a great life.”

Lil Nas X pleaded not guilty on August 25 and was released after posting $75,000 bail. Authorities initially took him to a hospital for a suspected overdose before transferring him to jail.

Following his release, Hill posted a message on Instagram Stories: “Your girl is gonna be OK, y’all,” he said. “OK? She’s gonna be all right. S###.”

He then laughed before adding, “That was f###### terrifying. That was terrifying. That was a terrifying last four days. But your girl is gonna be all right.”

Lil Nas X became a global star in 2019 with “Old Town Road,” which spent 19 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The viral hit earned him two Grammy Awards and launched a career defined by bold visuals and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

His debut album, Montero, released in 2021, featured hits such as “Industry Baby” and “That’s What I Want.” Hill has also won multiple Billboard and MTV Video Music Awards.

Lil Nas X’s father blamed his son’s breakdown on the pressure of being in the music business.

“We all have breakdowns every now and then, but the difference is, yours get played out in the public eye,” Robert Stafford said. “Hopefully, this is a turning point in his mental stability,” he said. “Sometimes God will take you through your worst moment to give you your best moment.”

Charlie Kirk Suspected Killer’s DNA Discovered On Towel Concealing Murder Weapon

Tyler Robinson was identified through DNA evidence as the suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, according to FBI Director Kash Patel, who spoke Monday (September 15) on Fox News.

Robinson, 22, was arrested and booked into Utah County Jail on charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious injury and obstruction of justice. He’s expected to be formally charged Tuesday (September 16). Authorities haven’t confirmed whether he has legal representation.

Patel said DNA matching Robinson was discovered on a towel allegedly wrapped around the firearm used in the shooting and on a screwdriver found on a nearby rooftop. Both items were recovered close to the crime scene.

“I can report today that the DNA hits from the towel that was wrapped around the firearm and the DNA on the screwdriver are positively processed for the suspect in custody,” Patel said.

The firearm itself, a Mauser bolt-action rifle, is still undergoing forensic analysis at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives facility in Maryland.

According to Patel, Robinson’s alleged motive was political. “His family has collectively told investigators that he subscribed to left-wing ideology, and even more so in these last couple of years, and he had a text message exchange — he, the suspect, with another individual — in which he claimed that he had an opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and he was going to do it because of his hatred for what Charlie stood for,” Patel said.

The rifle was reportedly found near bullet casings etched with messages, including one that read, “Hey fascist! Catch!”

Patel said he and a team of FBI agents personally walked the crime scene to gather evidence and confirmed the DNA findings.

The FBI director also addressed criticism over his early announcement that a “subject” was in custody, a statement made before charges were filed. “The job of the FBI is not just to manhunt the actual suspect who did the killing, or suspects, but it’s also to eliminate targets and eliminate subjects who are not involved in the process, and that’s what we were doing,” he said. “Could I have worded it a little better in the heat of the moment? Sure. But do I regret putting it out? Absolutely not.”

Patel dismissed reports of tension with local law enforcement but acknowledged he was frustrated by delays in receiving investigative materials. “The photos were produced, they just weren’t produced in a timely fashion that I felt was appropriate for an investigation of this magnitude. So I came in and I accelerated that process,” he said.

Relatives and neighbors described Robinson as a “squeaky clean” and “considerate” young man from suburban Utah who had recently become politically active.

Saweetie Says Beauty Brings “Pretty Punishment” In Music Industry

Saweetie spoke about the downside of being attractive in the entertainment world, insisting her looks have often worked against her, calling it “pretty punishment.”

“They were like they talk about pretty privilege but don’t talk about pretty punishment,” Saweetie told Nessa Diab on Hot 97’s Nessa On Air. “There’s been so many times, I’ve just been counted out. And I know that it’s behind animosity. I know it’s because of a hidden agenda. But it makes me work harder.”

The term “pretty punishment” refers to the idea that while beauty may open doors, it can also lead to resentment and doubt. Saweetie, born Diamonté Harper, said she’s dealt with this kind of pushback for most of her life.

“There’s been so many times I’ve just been counted out, and I know that it’s behind animosity,” she said. “I know it’s because of a hidden agenda, but it makes me work harder. But this has happened my whole life.”

Since her 2017 viral hit “Icy Grl,” Saweetie has faced criticism about her skills as a rapper. Some online critics have dismissed her success as being based more on appearance than talent.

Comments on social media after the interview included, “You can’t rap babe…hope this helps,” and “Sweetie you are beautiful but your music is terrible baby.”

This isn’t the first time Saweetie has addressed the issue. In a 2021 interview with Power 106, she said pretty privilege “wasn’t a privilege” for her, adding that people often assume attractive women don’t work hard.

Despite the criticism, Saweetie has kept her momentum.

She’s launched multiple business ventures, collaborated with top artists and stepped into acting with a role on Starz’s BMF.

She recently dropped her EP HELLA PRESSURE and is still working on her long-awaited debut album, Pretty B#### Music.

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Jermaine Dupri Flips Script On Janet Jackson Breakup Narrative

Jermaine Dupri isn’t letting the internet write the final word on his past with Janet Jackson, flipping the long-running narrative that he “fumbled” the pop icon after their seven-year relationship.

“I don’t know what a fumble is, though,” Dupri said during a recent sit-down with Hot 97’s Nessa. “I be trying to figure out why y’all don’t say she fumbled me.”

The Grammy-winning producer dated Jackson from 2002 to 2009. Their relationship ended amid cheating rumors, but Dupri made it clear he doesn’t see himself as the one who dropped the ball.

“I’m not something that you just let roll down the street,” he said. “I don’t look at it like that. I look at it like it’s a relationship. We was together for eight years.”

Dupri also recalled an awkward moment in 2023 when Jackson brought him onstage during her “Together Again” tour stop in Atlanta.

“She ain’t even actually talk to me when she came out,” he said. “I was trying to get her to talk, but she was walking away.”

The two music heavyweights first connected backstage at one of Jackson’s shows in 2002.

Dupri has said he initially kept things professional to avoid mixing business with romance.

Their breakup, confirmed in 2009, came after Jackson reportedly discovered Dupri had been unfaithful.

In her 2022 documentary, Dupri admitted to being “reckless” during their time together.

“Girls wanted to talk to me more because I was dating her, which was really weird,” he said in the film. “And I was a man.”

At the time of their split, Jackson wanted to start a family. Sources close to the couple said the overlap of personal and professional life added strain to the relationship.

Drake Confronts Adin Ross Live After “Iceman” Track Leak By Crypto Streamers

Drake phoned Adin Ross live on stream after an unreleased track from his upcoming Iceman album surfaced online without his permission.

The Toronto rapper was visibly frustrated after a pair of cryptocurrency streamers known as Bagwork played the unreleased song during their broadcast.

Ross, who was streaming live at the time, answered a call from Drake that quickly turned tense.

“I don’t even know who the f### those kids are,” Drake said, his voice clearly irritated. “I asked you who they are. What the f###?”

The moment was caught on Ross’s stream and quickly circulated across social media, adding more heat to an already chaotic rollout for Iceman. Drake has been using his own livestreams to tease new music and build momentum for the project, but this leak threw a wrench into those plans.

Drake Disses DeMar DeRozan In “Iceman” Leaked Track

The leaked snippet included a pointed jab at NBA star DeMar DeRozan. The former Toronto Raptors player was a longtime friend of Drake. In the track, Drake raps:

“When you was part of the team we used to be planning our Mexico trips in the spring/We must’ve been dealing in the spur of the moment/Cause why (Kawhi) did we think you could get us a ring?”

The lyrics reference DeRozan’s trade from the Raptors to the Spurs in 2018, a move that brought Kawhi Leonard to Toronto.

Leonard would go on to lead the team to its first-ever NBA championship in 2019—something DeRozan never achieved during his time with the franchise.

Many interpreted the verse as a response to DeRozan’s appearance in Kendrick Lamar‘s “Not Like Us” video and his on-stage cameo at Kendrick’s Pop-Out concert. Both moves were seen as public support for Kendrick in his feud with Drake.

Despite the leak, Drake has continued to preview new music on his own terms. Recent tracks include “That’s How I Feel” and “Dog House,” a collaboration with Yeat and Julia Wolf.

No official release date has been announced for Iceman.

NLE Choppa Accused Of Starving Toddler Son In Tense Custody Dispute

NLE Choppa found himself at the center of a messy custody dispute after ex-girlfriend Marissa Da’Nae blasted the Memphis rapper online, accusing him of dragging her to court over their infant son despite what she described as minimal involvement in the child’s life.

On Sunday night (September 14), Da’Nae, who shares two children with the 22-year-old artist, posted a series of tweets criticizing the rapper’s parenting.

“I can’t believe this b#### is taking me to court about a child he doesn’t even call lmao I get so angry just thinking about this s###,” she wrote. “B#### can’t even tell a mf when’s the last time Chozen been to the doctor or even been to a doctor’s appointment.”

Da’Nae didn’t stop there. She claimed Choppa had little knowledge of their son’s day-to-day life and mocked the idea that he could produce any real evidence of quality time spent with the child.

“He wouldn’t even be able to fill up all 20 Instagram slides of different occasions when he saw Chozen,” she tweeted.

When asked by a follower about the legal situation, Da’Nae alleged that Choppa was seeking custody despite rarely seeing the child.

“Yeah trying to take me to court for a child he barely see,” she replied. “A child he had fasting at 1 year old. Saying a child didn’t need to eat 3 times a day. Kids come home starving.”

The former couple’s relationship has been rocky since they were first linked in 2021.

They share daughter Clover Brylie Potts, born in June 2020, and son ChoZen Wone Da’Shun Potts, born in August 2023.

In September 2022, NLE Choppa publicly announced their breakup, saying he wasn’t ready to settle down. “I had some growing up to do,” he admitted in a YouTube video titled “clearing the air…”

Phylicia Rashad Honors Malcolm-Jamal Warner With Emotional Emmy Tribute

Phylicia Rashad opened the “In Memoriam” segment at Sunday night’s Emmy Awards with a heartfelt tribute to her late Malcolm-Jamal Warner, her longtime on-screen son from “The Cosby Show,” who died in July at age 54.

“He was a beloved teenager in an iconic television series who the world watched grow into manhood,” Rashad said during the solemn moment. “And like all our friends and colleagues who transitioned this past year, Malcolm-Jamal Warner remains in our hearts.”

The tribute came just months after Warner’s sudden death from an accidental drowning while vacationing in Costa Rica.

The actor, best known for playing Theo Huxtable across all eight seasons of “The Cosby Show,” earned an Emmy nomination in 1986 for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.

Rashad, who portrayed Clair Huxtable, stood center stage as photos of departed television figures played behind her.

She continued, “We remember them not just for their immense talent but also for the way they made us believe in something bigger, the best that is within us.”

Warner’s legacy extended far beyond his breakout role. After “The Cosby Show” ended in 1992, he built a steady career with roles in series like “9-1-1” and “The Resident,” while also working behind the camera and pursuing music.

Since Warner’s passing, tributes have poured in from across the entertainment world.

Beyoncé honored him on her website, writing, “Thank you for being a big part of our shared television history. You will be missed.”

Viola Davis shared a message on Instagram, saying, “Theo was OUR son, OUR brother, OUR friend.”

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Bob Vylan Faces Backlash After Referencing Charlie Kirk’s Death Onstage

Bob Vylan drew criticism during a concert in Amsterdam after frontman Bobby Vylan referenced the killing of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at a Utah university event.

While performing at Club Paradiso in the Netherlands, Bobby Vylan addressed the crowd before launching into a song, saying, “I want to dedicate this next one to an absolute p############ of a human being. The pronouns was/were. Cause if you chat s###, you will get banged. Rest in peace Charlie Kirk, you p############.”

Kirk, 31, a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump and founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed Wednesday (September 10) during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University. Authorities have labeled the incident a politically motivated assassination.

Some people interpreted Bob Vylan’s comment as a celebration of Kirk’s death, sparking backlash online and from conservative circles.

Bobby Vylan Denies Celebrating Charlie Kirk’s Death

In response, Bobby Vylan posted a video to social media denying any such intent. “At no point during yesterday’s show was Charlie Kirk’s death celebrated. At no point whatsoever did we celebrate Charlie Kirk’s death,” he said.

Club Paradiso stood by the performance, issuing a statement in defense of the band’s right to artistic expression.

“Paradiso believes in the power of artistic freedom. Music, and punk in particular, has traditionally been a form of art that amplifies anger, discontent, and injustice without filter.”

The venue also linked the performance to broader political issues, stating, “Paradiso shares the outrage and concern regarding the genocidal violence taking place in Gaza. That Bob Vylan raises his voice against it is legitimate and necessary.”

This is not the first time Bob Vylan has drawn criticism for controversial political statements.

During a live BBC broadcast at Glastonbury Festival in June, the duo called for the “death” of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), prompting a police investigation by Avon and Somerset Police.

BBC director general Tim Davie later described the broadcast as “a very significant mistake,” and the network issued an apology, calling the segment “antisemitic” and “deeply disturbing.”

Following that incident, the U.S. State Department revoked the group’s visas, effectively barring them from performing in the United States.

Bobby Vylan has consistently defended his comments as political speech, not hate.

After the Glastonbury controversy, he wrote on social media, “There was nothing antisemitic or criminal about anything I said.”

Despite the controversy, Bob Vylan’s upcoming shows in the Netherlands are still set to go ahead. Venues Doornroosje and 013 both confirmed the events will proceed.

Ay Huncho Escapes Death After Shooting Targets Rapper’s Family Home

Rapper Ay Huncho avoided harm after a hail of bullets struck his former residence in western Sydney early Sunday in what police are calling a dangerous escalation tied to ongoing gang rivalries.

Just after 1 A.M., gunmen opened fire on a house on Harris Street in Merrylands, a property where the Hip-Hop artist once lived. Inside the home were members of his family, two women, ages 22 and 40 and a 15-year-old boy.

All three escaped injury.

Police described the shooting as reckless and deliberate.

“It’s brazen, it’s dangerous behavior, it’s putting the community at risk, it’s behavior we won’t tolerate,” Inspector Ricki Lindner said during a press briefing.

Investigators confirmed the home previously belonged to Ay Huncho, who was granted bail last month despite police opposition. Authorities allege the rapper has ties to the Alameddine crime network, a group linked to several violent incidents across western Sydney.

The Alameddine group has been under intense scrutiny by New South Wales Police. In March, officers carried out large-scale raids, claiming they dismantled much of the gang’s infrastructure.

Despite those efforts, Sunday’s shooting suggests the violence is far from over.

The NSW Police’s Taskforce Falcon, created to respond to a surge in public shootings and stabbings, is now involved in the investigation.

According to police, this is not the first time Ay Huncho or his circle has been targeted. In June, a 15-year-old and a 22-year-old allegedly attacked the home of the rapper’s bodyguard in Guildford.

The suspects reportedly stabbed the bodyguard’s father during the incident.

Authorities are now working to determine if Sunday’s gunfire is part of a broader pattern of retaliation and internal disputes within the Alameddine network.

Ay Huncho, who has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, remains out on bail as his legal case continues.

Ray J Begs IShowSpeed To Shower Together, After Kai Cenat Turned Him Down

Ray J is back trying to make viral magic in a bathroom again—this time asking IShowSpeed to hop in the shower with him after Kai Cenat already told him “nah.”

Ray J uploaded a video from inside a steamy shower—no shirt, water running, aiming his next invite at IShowSpeed, who’s currently on Day 18 of his 35-day “Speed Does America” livestream marathon.

“My next person I want to take a shower with is iShowspeed. Yeah, n####. I heard you about the stream with Kevin Gates. And Kevin Gates is my brother. I’m gonna have that n#### line it up, bro. I’ll see you soon, iShowspeed. Talk to me, n####.”

This isn’t Ray J’s first time trying to turn a bathroom into viral content.

Just days ago, he barged into Kai Cenat’s bathroom during the streamer’s “Mafiathon 3” event—rocking shades and a Speedo—trying to join Kai mid-shower.

The second Kai saw Ray J pulling his drawers off, he dipped out of the shower so fast you’d think it was a prank, but it wasn’t.

To make it even weirder, a DJ started playing Ray J’s “One Wish” while all this was happening, turning the whole scene into some kind of surreal meme moment.

Ray J ended up showering alone, but it didn’t matter. Social media lit up instantly, with people clowning the whole thing and wondering what he’s really on.

In earlier streams, Ray J said he wanted to do a shower segment with Kai, but promised to keep his clothes on. That clearly didn’t happen, which explains why Kai looked so uncomfortable and snapped at him after.

Now that Kai’s out, Ray J’s got his sights set on Speed.

And even though Speed already said no once, Ray J’s doubling down like he’s trying to make this shower collab a real thing.

Jon B Revisits 2001 Nas Collaboration & Talks Latest Album Release

In the not so distant past, Jon B walked into Nas’ London concert expecting simply to enjoy the show, but he left with a memory that stitched their careers even tighter. The R&B singer recalled how the Queensbridge legend welcomed him backstage after performing with a full symphony orchestra. They had a special history that made the link-up so much more special.

“They got Jon B here to see you,” he remembered hearing. Nas responded with a grin, “R&B Jon B? The singer? Tell him come in.”

The reunion sparked conversation about their 2001 collaboration on “Finer Things,” a track Jon B crafted specifically with Nas’ style in mind. The smooth song mixed R&B textures with suave-street storytelling.

“I wanted a pocket like the ‘Street Dreams’ tempo. I cooked it up specifically for him,” Jon B told AllHipHop in WonWorld Studios. “He was on it. Two verses. He wrote the song twice, actually, dedication like Pac.”

Watch Jon B talk about Nas at the 20-minute mark below.

Jon B said Nas’ precision in the studio was unforgettable. He rewrote his verses to reach a standard only he could reach. “That closing rap…fire,” Jon B said, reciting the bars with admiration.

That moment and others underlined Jon B’s enduring dedication between R&B soul and Hip-Hop. His career took off in the mid-1990s with hits like “Someone to Love” and “They Don’t Know,” but his collaborations with Hip-Hop figures has distinguished him from others. He worked with Tupac Shakur, Nas, Fat Joe and, more recently, Rick Ross. These links have cemented his crossover viability.

Three decades later, Jon B continues to push forward with integrity. His latest album, 2024’s Waiting on You, marked his first studio project in more than a decade. The opus is classic R&B, live instrumentation and grown-man songwriting. Beyond his singing, the album underscores his evolution as a producer and arranger.

Jon B credits Hip-Hop culture for shaping him from the start.

“I grew up with hip-hop in the ’80s—truck jewelry, breakdancing, locking, graffiti, the DJ…there’s nothing like it,” he said.

He admitted that rap has always been in his musical toolkit. “I wouldn’t call myself a rapper, but rap is a musical tool for me. I have fun freestyling, been doing it for years,” he said.

For Jon B, the link between Hip-Hop and R&B—and more broadly so-called urban culture—has always been authentic, not just a business strategy. Tt’s been a creative lifeline. With Waiting on You, he reminds longtime listeners and newer ones he’s back like he never left, much like Hip-Hop’s greatest MCs.

Toosii Lands Football Scholarship To Sacramento State

Toosii just pulled off a rare double play—securing a football scholarship at Sacramento State while still riding high on the charts as a multi-platinum Hip-Hop artist.

The 25-year-old rapper announced Sunday that he received an offer to join the Hornets football team as a wide receiver in the 2026 recruiting class.

Sacramento State head coach Brennan Marion extended the offer during a FaceTime call Friday, creating a buzz that quickly spread across both the sports and music worlds.

“Man the lord is powerful,” Toosii posted on social media. “Blessed to receive an offer from Sacramento State. Thank you and big shout to Head Coach Brennan Marion and Coach C.J. Pollard. This don’t even feel real man. I’m speechless right now. I don’t even know what to say.”

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Known for chart-toppers like “Favorite Song” and “Love Cycle,” Toosii becomes the first multi-platinum recording artist to pursue Division I college football.

“A blessing and an honor coming from what I come from. Especially to be able to go back and chase my dreams,” Toosii told On3′s Pete Nakos after receiving the offer.

Before his rap career took off, the Syracuse native played high school football at Rolesville High in Raleigh, North Carolina. Though he shifted focus to music, the dream of returning to the gridiron never faded.

In August, he hinted at his ambitions on social media: “I’m chasing history. First multi-platinum recording artist to go back to school and play DIVISION I football. Next year I’m gonna be on somebody’s team mark my words!”

Toosii also toured campuses at Maryland and USC, which helped him realize that his goal was within reach.

Sacramento State, a program gaining traction under Marion’s leadership, could benefit from Toosii’s visibility and crossover appeal as it eyes a move to a more competitive conference.

Although he posted videos of himself working out with the Hornets, Toosii has yet to make an official decision, which is expected to be made in December.