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MBSICK and Drego Release Their Newest Hit “The Difference”

After releasing his debut single “Real One” only 5 months prior, MBSICK returned to drop his second official track “The Difference” with Drego. The track has already been well received by fans and numbers are rising by the day.

“The Difference” offers listeners’ a unique listen featuring real lyrics about the life of the two rappers in the streets, getting money, and countless women. With a banging loop beat combined with MBSICK’s catchy chorus and hard verses from both artists, a moment is never wasted on the song. A summer jam this track is one perfect for the car speakers.

“The Difference” is just the beginning to MBSICK’s career and to what he is capable of. The creative plans on dropping his debut album along with other collaborations soon!

Be sure to listen to MBSICK’s second-ever single “The Difference” below as well as follow the up-and-coming artist on Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date with his journey and any new music:

Instagram: @mbsick

Twitter: @mbsick

https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-difference-feat-drego/1631262812?i=1631262813

Xzibit Pimped By Viacom Over ‘Pimp My Ride’ Money, Threatens Lawsuit

Xzibit accused Viacom, now known as Paramount Global, of cheating him out of money from the hit show Pimp My Ride.

The West Coast rapper described how MTV’s parent company allegedly avoided paying him in an Instagram post on Tuesday (June 28). Xzibit threatened to sue Paramount if the corporation continued to ignore his grievances.

“While I’m at it, hey @viacom_intl why is it you’ve made millions off the show #PimpMyRide I carried on my back and found ways to cut me out?” he wrote. “Like saying I would get percentages of all merch sold let alone streaming (which wasn’t even in the contract) and putting in the fine print ‘with my name and likeness’ then proceed to take my ‘name and likeness’ off of ALL the merchandise including dvd sales after season 1?”

Xzibit continued, “To top that you guys went back and EDITED all of my music out of ALL entire seasons in order to avoid paying me for my publishing. Let’s talk about worldwide syndication!!!! Wow. Hey, guys, my number is still the same. Hit me up. Or…… Can anybody hit me with a law firm who isn’t afraid of Viacom to get me right?”

The Pimp My Ride host addressed his message to Paramount’s president and CEO Robert Bakish. Xzibit also tagged MTV in the post.

Xzibit previously spoke about his Pimp My Ride money issues in a 2018 interview with The Breakfast Club.

“I feel as though it became profitable for everyone else except me,” he said. “When it was over, everybody couldn’t believe that I didn’t want to continue.”

Xzibit hosted Pimp My Ride from 2004 to 2007. The series ran for six seasons on MTV.

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A post shared by XZIBIT (@xzibit)

The 6th Annual Culture Creators Awards Brunch Honors L.A. Reid & More

The Culture Creators hosted its sixth annual Innovators & Leaders Awards Brunch at the Beverly Hilton during BET Awards weekend in partnership with Netflix.

The event has certainly grown to become one of the most sought-after, influential, and inspirational events of the culture every single year, and this year the ceremony was powered by Netflix, Ciroc, and Lexus.

Culture Creators founder Joi Brown shared the importance of her vision to continue to celebrate, edify, and highlight those of our culture who continue to produce excellence. 

The legendary L.A. Reid was honored with the Icon Award, which was presented by global superstar Usher.

Before L.A. took the stage to accept his award, he was presented with a video montage that included congratulatory remarks from Toni Braxton, Mariah Carey, 21 Savage, DJ Khaled, Jermaine Dupri and more. 

Robin Thede was honored with the Innovator Award, and she took a moment to explain her reason for innovating. Thede stated that she innovates because she is tired of seeing us left out of spaces where we belong, and she was adamant about reminding those in attendance that we need to be hired in all spaces (in front of and behind the camera) because we are talented, and we belong.

Additional honorees included  Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings (Business & Finance Award), Kenny Burns (Entrepreneur Award), Brandice Daniel (Fashion Award), Shari Bryant (Music Award), Kendrick Sampson (Impact Award), Nicole Lynn (Sports Award), and Flo Ngala (Visual Arts Award).

The 2022 red carpet honorees included Pinky Cole (Community Advocate), Baller Alert (Blog of the Year), and Lea Ademilola (HBCU Rising Culture Creator Award).

Talent and celebrities in attendance included Stephen Hill, Justin Combs, Chante Moore, Jacquees, Porsche Coleman, Jermelle Simon, Torrei Hart, Bridget Kelly, Bre-Z, Loni Love, Kosine, Queen Naija and more. 

Culture Creators continues to be a shining example of excellence in the community as it spotlights and amplifies the contributions of individuals who have shaped the global view of Black culture.

Nipsey Hussle Murder Suspect Needed Head Stapled After Violent Jailhouse Assault

Nipsey Hussle’s alleged killer required three staples in the back of his head after getting assaulted on Tuesday (June 28).

According to multiple reports, more than one person attacked Eric Holder Jr. in a holding cell. His lawyer Aaron Jansen noted one of his client’s attackers used a razor.

“Mr. Holder, Jr. was assaulted by multiple individuals while he was in the holding cell at the jail while waiting to be brought to court yesterday morning,” Jansen said in a press statement. “The attack included a razor and the back of his head was cut.”

The attack occurred while Holder waited for transport to a Los Angeles courthouse. The Nipsey Hussle murder trial was scheduled to continue on Tuesday but had to be delayed due to the assault. Holder needed a trip to the hospital, where he received an MRI and staples.

Closing arguments in the murder trial are now scheduled for Thursday (June 30). Prosecutors accuse Holder of shooting and killing Nipsey Hussle in March 2019.

Holder faces one count of murder, two counts of attempted murder and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon. He pleaded not guilty to the charges. If convicted, he could be sentenced to life in prison.

BREAKING: R. Kelly Sentenced To 30 Years In Prison

Singer R. Kelly was sentenced in his New York trial today (June 29th). The 55-year-old was hit with a 30 year sentence after being convicted in his sex trafficking and racketeering case.

The penalty stems from his 2021 conviction, where the “I Believe I Can Fly” singer was found guilty of nine charges, including a racketeering count where 14 individual acts like bribery, kidnapping, and forced labor were bundled together.

“You used your fame and power to groom and coach underage boys and girls for your own sexual gratification. Today we reclaim our name. We are no longer the preyed-upon individuals we once were. I pray that God reaches your soul,” a victim named Angela told R. Kelly during the hearing today.

As reported by AllHipHop.com, the Chicago singer has been held for almost three years for these transgressions.

The state asked for more than 25 years because of his “long and pervasive history of enticing children to engage in sexual activity” and their request was granted.

The singer’s defense team, led by Jennifer Bonjean had requested the judge be lenient and only give Kelly the mandatory minimum of 10 years.

There are eleven alleged victims in this case. Nine women and two men testified in his case, with six saying they were minors when the abuse allegedly occurred.

Five of the women to whom the criminal charges were connected were able to testify. However, the sixth woman was not.

That would have been the late Aaliyah Houghton, the singer protegé that he married when she was 15 years old and he was 27. 

The Forever Princess of R&B died in 2001, years after separating from the convicted predator and cultural Pied Piper.

R. Kelly, 55, did not take the stand during this trial. In August, the disgraced singer will face additional charges in a Chicago federal case for alleged child pornography and obstruction of justice.

The 2022 Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards Honors Cultural Game Changers

Photo credit: J’Quan Jarrell (@JquanJarrell)

The 2022 Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards was certainly one for the books! Jason Lee and Hollywood Unlocked held the swanky affair at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills to highlight and emphasize the importance of Black ownership, amplify Black voices, and reclaim Black narratives.

Every detail and moment was perfect from the ambiance to the beautiful centerpieces!

This year Hollywood Unlocked recognized legends of the culture for using their influence and platforms to impact and lift up their communities. 

The illustrious award show was hosted by award-winning comedian, actress & author Tiffany Haddish.

This year’s honorees included Lizzo (Fearlessness Award), Karen Bass (Community Award), N.O.R.E. (Culture Award), Jenifer Lewis (Perseverance Award), Floyd Mayweather (Pioneer Award), and Kelis (Innovation Award).

Presenters for the evening included Blueface, Jabari Banks, and Claudia Jordan, and attendees were wowed by a surprise appearance from the legendary and iconic Mariah Carey

Carey joined Haddish on stage to present Floyd Mayweather with the Pioneer Award.

The evening also featured performances from Le’Andria Johnson & David Sebastian.

The 2022 Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards was such a night of Black excellence and inspiration!

Rapper Big Boi And Wife End Their Marriage

Atlanta rapper Big Boi, one half of the iconic group OutKast, has ended his two-decade-long marriage to Sherlita Patton.

According to TMZ, the two are calling it quits.

Big Boi is said to have filed for divorce in April, and the couple filed the final divorce decree last month.

The court documents revealed that the two were already separated and had not been living together for some time.

In 2016, the two agreed on a postnuptial agreement. The celebrity Hip-Hop couple, who were “goals” for so many, have divided their assets and debt. 

They have also entered into a confidential settlement for other marriage-related details that the two may have had outstanding — agreeing to keep their finances private and out of the prying public’s eyes.

Both Big Boi, whose real name is Antwon Patton and Patton, agreed not to be messy, saying neither party would make threats of “injury, maltreating, molesting, harassing, harming, or abusing” the other in any way.

The two have been trying to make it work for years.

In 2013, AllHipHop.com reported the two were separated, and Patton filed for divorce, saying the marriage was “irretrievably broken.” At the time, she was seeking alimony, attorney’s fees, sole custody of their younger child, child support, and a fair allocation of marital property.

Now the divorce is real. 

In his filing almost three months ago, the ATLien said he believes there is “no reasonable hope of reconciliation.”

It seems like it is a done deal now.

Babyface Recruits Ella Mai, Queen Naija, Ari Lennox & Kehlani For ‘Girls’ Night Out’ Album

Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds is one of the most celebrated R&B acts of all time. The multi-time Grammy winner recently signed a deal with Capitol Records as he prepares to release a new studio LP.

“Babyface’s return to the studio is long overdue, and I couldn’t be happier that he’s chosen Capitol as the home for such a wonderful new album. To hear his one-of-a-kind voice paired with some of music’s most impressive female artists is a joy that we can’t wait to share,” says Michelle Jubelirer, Chair/CEO of Capitol Music Group.

Babyface’s upcoming Girls’ Night Out album will feature a lineup of high-profile R&B songstresses. The LaFace Records co-founder recruited Ella Mai, Queen Naija, Ari Lennox, Kehlani, Doechii, and other musicians for the project.

The Legend Expresses Excitement For His Forthcoming LP

“I am extremely honored and humbled to be signing to a legacy label like Capitol,” states Babyface. “They have welcomed me with open arms and treat me like family. And, in the end, that is what it’s all about – doing what you love with people who have the same love for music as you do.”

The 63-year-old iconic singer/songwriter also adds, “I am very excited about the upcoming album and everyone on it. The process for it reminded me of when I did Waiting to Exhale and I’m excited for the world to hear.”

Babyface & Ella Mai Hit The Stage At The BET Awards

Girls’ Night Out drops October 29 via Capitol Records. The studio LP will join a Babyface catalog that also contains other projects. His discography includes collections such as 1989’s Tender Lover, 1993’s For the Cool in You, 2001’s Face2Face, and 2015’s Return of the Tender Lover.

Babyface produced Girls’ Night Out with Rika Tischendorf serving as the co-producer. Earlier this month, Babyface shared his new “Keeps On Fallin'” collaboration with Ella Mai. Both vocalists performed the Girls’ Night Out single at the 2022 BET Awards on Sunday.

Jay Shells Relaunches “Rap Quotes” Project In Celebration Of Rock The Bells Festival

New York City’s Jay Shells is back with “Rap Quotes” after first introducing the street sign project in 2013. The multi-disciplinary artist is relaunching the series in tandem with the forthcoming Rock The Bells festival.

Jay Shells posted iconic quotes from Rock The Bells 2022 acts. Legendary Hip Hop artists are part of the event’s lineup. Festivalgoers will get to see LL Cool J, Ice Cube, Rick Ross, Lil Kim, Cam’ron, Jim Jones, Fat Joe, Remy Ma, Jadakiss, Scarface, Trina, and N.O.R.E.

“The ‘Rap Quotes’ campaign has become a creative journey that’s allowed me to discover a deeper understanding and connection to some of my favorite Hip Hop artists by providing additional context to their lyrics,” says Jay Shells.

He also adds, “I’m excited to be working with Rock The Bells during Black Music Month to celebrate the festival lineup and showcase their lyrics around New York City. As long as Hip Hop artists keep making new music, this public art campaign will never be done, and I’m excited to bring it to life in new and unique ways with partners that share the same vision.”

Back in 2013, Jay Shells installed over thirty street signs with lyrical references to iconic Hip Hop songs across NYC. Over the past nine years, “Rap Quotes” expanded to other locales. Iconic bars by Hip Hop legends showed up in Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Houston, and Atlanta.

Rock The Bells 2022 Will Include Live Performances & More

Queens native LL Cool J is one of the organizers spearheading the return of the Rock The Bells Festival. The 2022 edition will take place on Saturday, August 6 at Forest Hills Stadium in Queens.

Hip Hop matriarch Roxanne Shante will serve as the festival’s host. The day-long Rock The Bells will feature live performances, interactive experiences, art exhibits, food, fashion, and more. Tickets for Rock The Bells are available at rockthebells.com.

Kendrick Lamar’s Crown Cost More Than A Lambo

A lot was made of the Glastonbury performance of Kendrick Lamar. First of all, we realize that bro is a good dude. He seems to be a great human being. He stood up sturdy for women’s rights in the ashes of Roe V. Wade. If you are clueless, Roe V. Wade being overturned essentially says abortions are illegal on a federal level. On a state to state level, it may not be illegal. New York is already expecting an influx of people come in from out of state and Plan B “the abortion pill” is seeing a rise in sales. All of this is sad.

A lot was made of Kendrick’s statement. This all culminated in the finale of the performance, a song called Savior. Kendrick yelled, “they judge you, they judge Christ. Godspeed for women’s rights! “

So, when Kendrick wore a crown of thorns, many thought it was just a crown of thorns. No. It was actually a diamond encrusted crown of thorns. According to reports, the crown actually yielded 8,000 diamonds. It was made by Tiffany & Co. and cost a reported $200,000. Some of this is speculative, but that seems to be the prevailing notion. Also, the crown of thorns features 50 thorns in total, all of which are very sharp.

Obviously, Dave Free, the jeweler who created the thorny crown, knew what he was doing. He knew that Kendrick wanted to invoke the name of Jesus and even the blood, which was portrayed in that amazing performance at Glastonbury.

It took 10 months to create this thing. All 137 carats! According to reports it also took 1,300 work hours and numerous other people to make it happen. When I saw this on the cover of Kendrick‘s album, I didn’t realize it was diamond encrusted. Anyway, we need more artistry like this. Hip-Hop is an art but we are regulated to booty shaking and clapping guns for too much. People can do what they want to do, but I just prefer a little bit more intellect in my heart.

Here’s the performance.

https://youtu.be/KRb3HDA2DyE
https://youtu.be/ULPaG0cfw60

On second thought, check out Kendrick’s performance at the Louie V fashion show. LOL! Some of this is ridiculous, all in the name of fashion.

Danny Brown Accuses Die Antwoord’s Ninja Of Sexual Assault

The South African music group known as Die Antwoord continues to be steeped in controversy. Detroit rapper Danny Brown shared another serious accusation against one of the Die Antwoord members.

During an appearance on the 2 Bears, 1 Cave podcast, Danny Brown recalled an unwanted interaction with Die Antwoord’s Watkin “Ninja” Jones. Brown claims Ninja sexually assaulted him inside a nightclub in Paris.

“The n#### was sitting on my lap trying to make out with me, and it freaked me out,” said Brown. The XXX album creator added, “I was a single, experimenting man at the time, but he was too aggressive. He sat on my lap and started trying to kiss me and doing weird s###. I’m like, ‘Man, you’re tripping!’”

Brown also stated that he was “scared” by Ninja’s alleged behavior. The Danny Brown Show presenter then told 2 Bears, 1 Cave host Tom Segura, “I could’ve canceled cuz. Me too. Me too. I was sexually assaulted by Ninja. I stand by that. He knows I ain’t lying.”

Ninja Allegedly Wanted To Go Back To A Hotel With Brown

Danny Brown went on to explain that he thought about fighting Ninja for kissing his neck, but he did not want to end up in a Parisian jail. The American rapper also implied the Die Antwoord frontman sought to take things further at another location.

“And guess what he said again? He was like, ‘What hotel [are] you staying at?’ I’m like, ‘Man, I don’t know.’ [Ninja said], ‘Don’t worry, I’ll find you.’ He said it in a DM and then said it again in my face,” said Danny Brown.

The “Really Doe” rhymer continued, “That’s what started making me pound drinks because I’m like, ‘I might have to stab this n#### tonight.’ Because if this n#### knocks on my hotel room door, bro, I’m stabbing, and it’s gonna be a big deal.”

https://youtu.be/gsMmj_8u8qE

Man Accuses Die Antwoord Of Abusing Him As A Child

Earlier this year, Die Antwoord’s adopted son accused the band of physical abuse, sexual abuse, and exploitation. Ninja and Anri du Toit (aka Yolandi Visser) reportedly adopted Gabriel ‘Tokkie’ du Preez at the age of nine.

The now-20-year-old Gabriel du Preez alleges Ninja and Yolandi Visser brought him into the family only to serve as a slave. His 14-year-old sister was under the care of the Die Antwoord duo as well. Du Preez also suggested there were instances of incest in the home.

“Yolandi called me into the room, she was naked and vomiting all over. She was laying with her legs open like the [sex] doll I had in my room. She called me into the room to call Ninja in the lounge,” said Gabriel du Preez.

He added, “Experiencing my mother being drunk, naked and wanting me to spend time with her in the room while she was naked… that I found very disturbing.” A representative for the band responded, “Die Antwoord don’t agree with Tokkie’s statements.”

https://youtu.be/YenOVzUonFA

Lil Durk Confirms Next Album Will Be A Joint Project With Metro Boomin

One of the hottest rappers at the moment will officially team up with one of the hottest producers for a full-length project. Fans can expect to hear Lil Durk rhyming over plenty of Metro Boomin production in the near future.

Lil Durk recently spoke to Apple Music 1’s Ebro Darden to preview his Apple Music Live performance in Los Angeles on June 29. The Chicago-raised recording artist also discussed his next body of work.

“As far as the next album, you must’ve heard something? Nah, it’s really the Metro,” said Lil Durk, referring to the St. Louis-bred beatmaker. He added, “Guaranteed. If that got leaked, ya’ll can have that. It’s another level.”

Lil Durk Reflects On Collabing With Lil Baby For The Voice of the Heroes

Lil Durk dropped his chart-topping 7220 album in March. The 29-year-old OTF leader launched a deluxe version of 7220 last Friday. The additional tracks will likely help the LP jump back into the Top 10 of the Billboard 200 chart.

Previously, Durk partnered with Atlanta’s Lil Baby for The Voice of the Heroes in 2021. That joint effort also debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200. The RIAA certified The Voice of the Heroes as Gold last October.

“We were vibing so crazy in the studio, we had to. We were just in that zone. He who he is, he turned up and actually can rap. He ended up rapping his ass off, I’m changing my energy. Matter of fact, we both made each other start writing,” Durk told Ebro Darden. “I would do another one. Sure.”

Metro Boomin Also Has A History Of Creating Collaborative Projects

Lil Durk has another big collaboration coming out this Friday, July 1. The self-described The Voice will appear on Cardi B’s upcoming “Hot S###” single along with fellow Chicago native Kanye “Ye” West.

Metro Boomin has several collaborative projects in his discography. In 2016, the Savage Mode EP played a role in breaking 21 Savage to a larger audience. 2017’s Without Warning (with 21 Savage and Offset), 2017’s Double or Nothing (with Big Sean), and Savage Mode II (with 21 Savage) are also in Metro’s catalog.

Plus, Metro Boomin has full mixtapes with acts like Nav and Gucci Mane. Metro released his own solo studio album in 2018. The star-studded Not All Heroes Wear Capes also debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart.

2022 BET Awards TV Viewership Jumps 23%

BET has a lot to celebrate this week. The network presented the 22nd BET Awards on June 26 to a larger television audience than last year.

According to a press release, the 2022 BET Awards drew 3.2 million viewers for Sunday’s simulcast across BET, BET Her, Comedy Central, Logo, MTV, MTV2, Pop, TV Land, and VH1. That total is a 23% increase from the viewership numbers for last year’s ceremony.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled about this year’s ratings!” says Scott Mills, CEO of BET. “Every year, we strive to have the BET Awards celebrate and reflect that which is best and most important to our community and culture in our hope to inspire them to dream big and take action. I salute my colleagues for delivering an event that has so profoundly resonated.”

In addition, the 2022 BET Awards amassed more than 103 million social views on Instagram Reels, YouTube, and Facebook. The network described the show as its best-performing telecast on BET Digital ever.

“We always knew we had a very special show, but now the ratings confirmed we are truly culture’s biggest night!” says Connie Orlando BET EVP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy.

Orlando continues, “We are grateful to our audience for tuning in live and on social media, all who stepped on stage, from the artists who delivered show-stopping performances and their teams, to our winners, nominees, and presenters. We could not be more proud.”

The 2022 BET Awards featured performances by Lizzo, Jack Harlow, Brandy, Lil Wayne, Chance The Rapper, Joey Bada$$, Roddy Ricch, Latto, Mariah Carey, Sean “Diddy” Combs, Mary J. Blige, Lil Kim, Jodeci, Chlöe, and many more.

Veteran actress Taraji P. Henson served as host for the 22nd BET Awards which aired live from Los Angeles. Silk Sonic, Kendrick Lamar, Latto, and Will Smith were among the big winners of the night. Diddy also received the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Photo Credit: Getty Images for BET

Idris Elba Reportedly In Talks To Join $1.2 Billion Bid For British Broadcaster Channel 4 

Idris Elba could be adding another role to his already growing list of titles if recent reports are accurate. 

The British multi-hyphenate began his career in the entertainment industry as a DJ while still a student before leaving school to pursue an acting career. He continued to spin the turntables to support himself in between roles and has released music as a rapper and featured in numerous collaborations. he also joined Stefflon Don and Sean Paul on Wiley’s#### “Boasty” on 2020. Watch the video below.

Wiley – Boasty (Feat. Stefflon Don, Sean Paul & Idris Elba)

He continued to do both before landing the role of Stringer Bell in the 2002 HBO drama series The Wire. Then in 2013, Idris Elba founded his production company Green Door Pictures. The organization aims to develop talent and promote inclusion, representation, and diversity. 

Now, according to The Sunday Times, Idris Elba is in talks with the founder of the international marketing firm Miroma Group Marc Boyan to make a joint bid for the British broadcaster, Channel 4.  

The reported bid comes after the U.K. government confirmed its plans to privatize Channel 4 earlier this year. The government says privatization will allow the channel to compete with platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime. 

Channel 4 called the plan “disappointing,” and claimed the plans disregarded concerns from the public. 

“With over 60,000 submissions to the Government’s public consultation, it is disappointing that today’s announcement has been made without formally recognising the significant public interest concerns which have been raised,” a statement from the broadcaster read.  

“Channel 4 has engaged in good faith with the Government throughout the consultation process, demonstrating how it can continue to commission much-loved programmes from the independent sector across the UK that represent and celebrate every aspect of British life as well as increase its contribution to society, while maintaining ownership by the public.” 

Meanwhile, Idris Elba launched a sneaker collab with Christian Louboutin earlier this week. He also teased yet another prospective career, this time as a fashion designer.  

“I might just drop my own sneaker collection. 😁 ( joking not joking),” he penned in the caption.  

https://www.instagram.com/p/CfMmGW9D2Ap/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Summer Walker Creates Hilarious Spoof Of Ray J’s Viral “One Wish” Verzuz Performance 

Summer Walker has hinted at leaving the music business on many occasions throughout her career. If she ever does, the R&B singer could reinvent herself as a sketch show comedian if her latest Instagram post is anything to go by. 

The Verzuz showdown between Omarion and Mario last week began with an eventful clash featuring Ray J and Bobby V against Pleasure P & Sammie. Ray J’s performance of “One Wish” became one of the highlights of the show due to his shaky vocal performance.  

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by AllHipHop (@allhiphopcom)

Though the moment has been the subject of many memes already, Summer Walker has now added her own. The “Purple Hearts” singer donned a drawn-on beard and mustache as she crooned into a hairbrush microphone while cradling a stuffed unicorn toy in an impersonation of Raj J during the Verzuz.  

“It’s all love 🤍 just having fun,” Summer Walker penned in the caption. Check out the spoof below.  

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CfYNDXPsIg_/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The Verzuz showdown appears to be the gift that keeps on giving. Royce Da 5’9” shared a clip of Ray J and Bobby V’s Instagram Live recap of the event. After announcing a new R&B supergroup with Pleasure P & Sammie the pair decided to try a vocal harmony. “Thank ya’ll for this,” wrote the Detroit rapper posting the clip.  

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Royce 5’9” (@royceda59)

Meanwhile, Summer Walker proudly displayed her growing baby bump at this weekend’s BET Awards shortly after announcing her pregnancy.  

https://www.instagram.com/p/CfSq8LvrUIf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Kim Kardashian Says Lawsuit Filed By Black Small Business Owner Is “A Shakedown” Over ‘SKKN’ Trademark 

Kim Kardashian says she’s the subject of a “shakedown effort” in response to the accusation she’s using her celebrity status to secure the rights to a skincare line after being sued for trademark infringement by a small business owned by a Black woman.  

Last year Cyndie Lunsford, founder of a Black-owned company called Beauty Concept filed an opposition to block Kim Kardashian’s attempt to trademark the name “SKKN By Kim.” She argued that the name was too similar to her brand SKKN +, which was already on the market. Lunsford has been operating the business out of a location in Brooklyn since 2018. She has been “taking steps to expand into a bigger physical location” in New York.  

According to TMZ, the company is now suing Kim Kardashian for trademark infringement, saying her brand is confusing customers. Lawyers for Beauty Concepts state they informed her of their trademark for “SKKN+” and asked that Kim not use similar branding. They claim the company ignored their request.  

Kim Kardashian Responds

However, Michael Rhodes, lawyer for Kim Kardashian, says the lawsuit “is not what it seems.” They claim the suit is a “shakedown effort” prompted by Kim’s efforts to protect her new brand.  

The attorney continued stating that they “applaud” Ms. Lunsford for “following her dreams” as a business owner. However, “that doesn’t give her the right to wrongfully claim that we’ve done something wrong.” 

Furthermore, they say “Beauty Concepts sold no products under the SKKN+ name,” as far as they know. They added, “the business was a one-person shop offering facials from a single Brooklyn location.” 

Rhodes states they declined the request to drop the SKKN name. “Beauty Concepts then challenged Ms. Kardashian’s trademark applications at the USPTO. Unsurprisingly, the USPTO rejected Beauty Concepts’ own SKKN+ mark saying that “skkn” just means “skin.” Undaunted, Beauty Concepts then tried to make its business seem more than it was – it leased a new storefront, changed its website, etc.” 

The documents state they attempted negotiations with Beauty Concepts. However, “running a small esthetician business in Brooklyn does not give it the right to shut down a global skincare line.”  

The fight between Kim Kardashian and Beauty Concepts continues. Lawyers for Kim claim the lawsuit in an attempt to leverage a settlement in the hopes of a big payout.  

The reality TV star and business mogul has been accused of profiting from Black culture and ruining Black business in the past. Earlier this month, after launching her new brands, SKKN and SKKN BY Kim, she was blasted online. Fans claimed her business was too similar to Lori Harvey’s skincare line SKN By LH. 

Candace Owens Labels T.I. A “Fraud” & “Performer” Over 2019 Revolt Summit Debate 

Candace Owen got into a heated debate with T.I. during the 2019 REVOLT TV summit in Atlanta. The pair joined a panel featuring Killer Mike, Steven Pargett, Katrina Pierson, and Tamika D Mallory to discuss a variety of societal issues facing the Black community.  

The avid Donald Trump supporter known for her controversial takes on issues affecting the Black community recalled the tense discussion with T.I. during a recent appearance on Off The Record Podcast with DJ Akademiks. She began by calling T.I. a “fraud,” before explaining she felt she had previously established a connection with the rapper.  

“That situation got me so angry because T.I. was the only person that I knew prior to stepping onto that stage,” said Owens. She claimed to have met the rapper a year before the summit after being introduced by Kanye West. “We had spoken on the phone for like, hours on the phone about what our opinions are politically.”  

Akademiks then interjected, suggesting T.I. “was trying to dunk on you a lot.” 

Candance continued, “It was crazy because when I spoke to him on the phone he was like, ‘I agree with you on this, I agree with you on this,’ agreed on everything we talked about. No debate. The only thing he said was, ‘I just can’t behind Trump.’ That was the only thing he ever said on the phone. ‘I can’t get behind Trump.’ Every other topic, we talked about Black America, he agreed with, he was so kind.” 

However, according to Candace Owens, the T.I. she spoke to on the phone disappeared once they got on stage. “He turned into a performer!… So, I say now, T.I. is a fraud, he is a very little man physically and mentally, he’s a small man. To do that for what?” 

Candace Owens Accused T.I. Of “Acting Like A Goon”

The conservative commentator claimed she wasn’t advocating for Trump during the panel discussion, which she classed as a conversation that “Black America deserved to have” that day. “And he halted it by acting like a goon,” she added. Check out the conversation between Candace Owens and Akademiks below.  

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A post shared by DJ Akademiks (@akademiks)

While he has yet to respond to her recent remarks, T.I. previously accused Candance Owens of being a “paid plant.” He believes “someone paid her to come out here and speak against everything the majority of us are standing for.”  He also claimed “She sent me a text, privately” after the summit that “really rubbed me the wrong way.”

Megan Thee Stallion Goes Viral With Sensational Twerking Videos 

Megan Thee Stallion took over the Internet on Tuesday evening (Jun. 28) after sharing several sensational videos of herself having fun with her friends while on tour in Europe.  

The Houston native is currently performing at festivals and shows all over the continent and has a grueling summer touring schedule. After putting in all that work, it’s only right that Megan Thee Stallion finds the time to relax and unwind between performances. 

One look at her social media gives the impression Meg is doing just that! Last week the H-town Hottie shared a couple of videos documenting her downtime while on the island of Ibiza. Cue sunsets, ocean views, bikinis, and Megan and her friends having fun in the sun.  

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A post shared by Megan Thee Stallion (@theestallion)

Megan Thee Stallion Displays Her Twerking Talent

However, the videos Megan shared on Tuesday were more of an unfiltered behind-the-scenes peek of the entertainer and her friends enjoying themselves away from public view. A couple of the clips in particular, were of Megan displaying her incredible twerking skills, causing the rapper to go viral.  

“All home grown from da mf soufffff🍑🍑🍑🍑🤘🏾🤘🏾🤘🏾🤘🏾🤘🏾” Megan Thee Stallion declared in the caption.  

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A post shared by Megan Thee Stallion (@theestallion)

Heart eyes and fire emojis filled the comment section, alongside replies from Megan’s celebrity gal pals.  

“Whewwwww,” noted Kash Doll, while SZA admitted, “I am no better than a man 🙂.” 

Like Coi Leray, Yung Miami dropped a bunch of emojis though her fellow City Girl JT wanted Megan to “REMIND THESE HOES!!!!!!😍😍😍😍😍” 

Meanwhile, the “WAP” hitmaker began trending on Twitter after some clips from IG made their way over to the platform.  

Katy Perry Reaches Out For A Duet

A snippet of Megan Thee Stallion singing along to a Katy Perry tune on IG Live caught the eye of the singer. Katy is a fan, asking Megan for a duet before telling her how much she loves her.  

Megan was equally excited, replying, “Omg yes hot girl Katy ! Let’s do a song 🔥 🔥 🔥”  

New Art Show Featuring Portraits of Emmett Till And His Dad Curated By Vic Mensa

Chicago rapper Vic Mensa, whose real name is Victor Kwesi Mensah, has partnered with the Kavi Gupta Gallery, one of the leading art spaces in the city, to produce an art show in the West Loop.

Kavi Gupta Gallery is located at 219 N. Elizabeth St. Vic Mensa said, “Music is what’s taken me around the world, and it’s my passion, but I’m also not limited to only one form of expression.”

According to WTTW, the show is called “Skin and Masks,” drawing its inspiration from Frantz Fanon’s transformative work, “Black Skin, White Masks,” and will run through August 13th.

“It’s his seminal text, and he’s dissecting the psychological ramifications of colonialism and white supremacy and imperialism and all of those things, and I felt that that concept could relate well to an art show,” Vic Mensa said.

Hebru Brantley’s work is on display. Also on display will be a portrait of young Emmett Till and his father, Louis Till, pulled from old photographs.

The artists have been growing as a man, including working as the founder of a Hip-Hop collective/ foundation called Savemoney, which includes Chance the Rapper and Joey Purp. The organization has a mission to help people in Chicago and the Republic of Ghana in West Africa.

“A quote by James Baldwin moves me, and that is, ‘Know from whence you came. That way there are no limitations to where you can go,’ and I believe that’s the ethos of what we’re creating in Ghana right now,” Vic Mensa said.

For more information, visit kavigupta.com.

Was Nipsey’s Killer Stabbed In Jail? 

I just got a report that says that the killer of Nipsey Hussle was stabbed in a Los Angeles county jail.

It’s very interesting that this happens at this time. The first report said that he was assaulted, a very general term without specificities. However, the rumor mill is emerging and has stated that he was actually stabbed.

READ THE NEWS: Nipsey Hussle Murder Suspect Reportedly Assaulted While In Custody

What’s interesting, is that this man has been incarcerated for the murder of one of our favorite rappers for around three years. During that time we all knew that he was the perpetrator, because it was all captured on tape. But, there have been no attempts on his life that I know of. And nothing that we have gotten has suggested that there was going to be retribution for his evil act.

Now, it appears that somebody actually made an attempt on his life in this county jail facility. Why now? Obviously nothing makes a whole bunch of sense in the prison system, but it does lend itself to a lot of rumors.

On the other hand it seems like one of the friends Nipsey had has beaten a bench warrant that should have landed him in jail. But it was all dropped somehow. Rimpau, who refuse to testify, originally had a warrant for his arrest because he refused to testify. He was even a pallbearer at Nipsey’s funeral. He stood next to Nipsey when he was shot. Judge George H. Clay issued a bench warrant for his arrest with $500,000 bail last Thursday. And suddenly it was just dropped.

No?

Cowboy, who is also one of Nipsey‘s really close friends, proclaimed Evan “Rimpau” McKenzie a coward. He said he ran when Nipsey was shot. Right now, they are trying to get Eric Holder the most jail time possible. There is a difference between a crime of passion and premeditated murder. The difference is life in jail!

So, some aren’t calling this an issue of no snitching vs snitching. But it seems more sinister to me. I am not going to print what I think, but it all smells really foul. Before we examine this further, at a later date, tell me what you’re thinking about this whole situation.

By the way, I would ride for Nip in anyway possible if I was given the opportunity.

Nipsey Hussle by Entertainment GIFs | GIPHY