The man accused of murdering Atlanta rapper Trouble has accepted a plea deal that will see him spend the next two decades in prison.
According to reports from Atlanta News First and Fox5 Atlanta, Jamichael Jones pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter on Friday (March 21) in connection to the June 2022 shooting death of Trouble (real name Mariel Semonte Orr).
Jones accepted the plea deal on the same day jury selection was set to begin for his trial. Jones had initially faced multiple charges, including malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, criminal damage to property and family battery. However, under the terms of the negotiated plea, he pleaded guilty to felony murder and received a 20-year prison sentence.
Jamichael Jones receives a 20 year prison sentence for the murder of Trouble after pleading guilty to voluntary manslaughter
Jones was facing charges of malice murder; felony murder; aggravated assault; possession of a firearm during commission of a felony; criminal damage to… https://t.co/9MdAdkg0Clpic.twitter.com/RePYowmsBY
Trouble was fatally shot outside an apartment complex in Conyers, where police found him lying on the ground with a gunshot wound. The events leading up to Trouble’s death were pieced together through witness statements and surveillance footage. Deputies were first alerted to the scene after receiving a 911 call from a neighbor who heard a female resident screaming for help.
Investigators learned that Jones had recently broken up with the woman who lived at the apartment. Authorities said the incident stemmed from a domestic dispute. Trouble had traveled to visit a female friend at the complex when Jones, her ex-boyfriend, arrived and an altercation ensued.
Jones reportedly forced his way inside and discovered Trouble asleep in her bed. He then began attacking the woman, prompting Trouble to intervene. A struggle followed, during which Trouble was shot. He was rushed to Rockdale County Piedmont Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Deputies recovered a spent .40 caliber shell casing at the scene but did not find a firearm.
Authorities tracked down Jones through surveillance footage and witness testimony. Investigators visited his mother’s home, where they were able to speak with Jones over the phone. Rockdale County Sheriff Eric Levett noted that Jones surrendered to authorities a few days later, after being urged to turn himself in by his mother.
Donald Trump continued his mission to dismantle the Department of Education surrounded by schoolchildren at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., on Thursday (March 20).
The former president signed an executive order instructing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to “take all necessary actions to facilitate the closure of the Department of Education.”
The controversial move aims to transfer academic oversight back to state and local authorities and reduce the federal government’s role in education policy.
Trump claimed the department is “doing us no good,” adding, “We’re going to eliminate it, and everyone knows it’s the right thing to do.”
In a theatrical moment, Trump turned to the children seated at desks around him and asked, “Should I do this?” before signing the order.
The executive action also explicitly bans federally funded education programs from promoting diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives or gender ideology.
Trump’s administration has already drastically reduced the department’s workforce.
On March 11, 2025, the Department of Education announced nearly half of its employees would lose their jobs. Those affected will be placed on administrative leave starting Frida (March 21).
However, abolishing the department altogether isn’t as simple as signing an executive order. Congress established the Department of Education in 1979, and only Congress can fully dismantle it.
Critics have slammed Trump’s actions, arguing the cuts will worsen the already existing inequalities in America’s education system.
Legal challenges are anticipated, with multiple advocacy groups working on lawsuits to halt the order.
Representing East Nashville, rising hip-hop artist $hrames is making major waves with the release of his brand-new music video for “FYTB,” featuring Demo. This hard-hitting track sets the stage for his highly anticipated album, Billionaire Boy, which will drop on April 18, 2025.
The release of “FYTB” is gaining significant attention, with All Hip Hop spotlighting the video as a must-watch moment in today’s rap scene. Directed by Chuck Indigo, the visuals are a cinematic mix of gritty realism and high-powered performance, capturing the essence of ambition, street mentality, and resilience. With pulsating beats and raw lyricism, $hrames and Demo make it clear—”FYTB” is more than just a song; it’s a statement.
As $hrames gears up for the release of Billionaire Boys, “FYTB” offers fans a glimpse into his bold, unfiltered sound, setting the tone for what promises to be a career-defining project.
The controversy ignited Tuesday night when West, who now prefers the moniker Ye, posted a derogatory message via X aimed directly at the couple’s youngest children, twins Rumi and Sir.
In the now-deleted post, West wrote, “Wait has anyone ever seen Jay Z and Beyonces younger kids theyre ret*rded no like literally and this is why artificial insemination is such a blessing having retarded children is a choice.”
Though Kanye West initially removed the inflammatory message, he inexplicably reposted it early Wednesday morning.
Shortly thereafter, he deleted it again, explaining, “I need everyone to know that I took the post about Jay Z and Beyoncé’s family down… because there was a possibility of my Twitter being cancelled. [sic]”
Sources close to Beyoncé and Jay-Z told Page Six the couple is outraged and “will absolutely not stand for it,” indicating they may pursue legal action against West for his comments.
The incident drew a swift public response from Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Knowles, who took to Instagram to defend her grandchildren.
Knowles shared her frustration and resolve, writing, “It’s hard to remain positive and classy in the face of ignorance and evil.”
She later edited the caption but maintained her stance, adding, “But I know that no weapon formed against me or my family shall prosper.”
This latest outburst adds to West’s growing social media controversy list, which has increasingly isolated the rapper from former friends and collaborators.
Beyoncé and Jay-Z, who have maintained a relatively private stance regarding their family, appear determined to protect their children from further public attacks.
Iggy Azalea has finally exposed the “weird” fantasies she claims Kanye West has about other men days after clashing with the polarizing artist on social media during one of his explosive Twitter rants.
In case you missed it, Azealea and West have been at odds over his mention of her son with Playboi Carti in response to his grievance with the MUSIC album maker for recruiting his daughter North West for his project. Azalea warned West to cut it out and leave her out of his “manic episode” because of the crazy things she claims she knew about him.
Now, during a recent livestream, she has pulled the curtain back on an outrageous story about a 2012 business meeting with Kanye West that took an unexpected and wildly inappropriate turn. Azalea explained that at the time, she was attending multiple label meetings, most of which were professional. But her encounter with Kanye was anything but, and seemingly involved pornography within the first few minutes of their sit down.
“I just met this guy like five minutes ago, and I’m supposed to be in a business meeting, so super weird,” Azalea recalled. “I really looked up to Kanye, so it threw me off. I didn’t know what to say.”
The conversation took a turn when Kanye allegedly revealed he had been looking at her photos regularly every morning.
“He was like, ‘Yeah, I j####### to them,'” she said bluntly. “Weird. Don’t know what to say. Weird.”
According to Iggy, Kanye then started asking about her personal life, specifically about her then-boyfriend in an even more bizarre manner.
“He’s like, how big is his dick? Not kidding you,” she revealed. “My face must’ve been like, the f###? He’s like, you don’t got to tell me. You don’t got to tell me. I know it’s big.”
The rapper described feeling stunned by the exchange, questioning why Kanye would even ask about another man in that way. But it didn’t stop there.
“He was like, I know it is. You got to let your boyfriend f### as many different girls as he can. Cause if you’ve got a big dick, then it’s his God-given right to f### as many women.”
While Azalea didn’t elaborate on how the meeting ended, West himself confirmed her claims were valid by replying to a tweet with a clip from Iggy’s live with a remark that didn’t shy away from the encounter.
“This is true,” West wrote in the tweet along with a shoulder shrug emoji.
In another tweet she claimed that West offered her to fly out to Wyoming in 2020 to shoot the Yeezy campaign, to which she declined, calling him and men at large “delusional.”
See additional tweets from both Azalea and West below.
D’Wayne Wiggins, musician and co-founder of the iconic R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné! will be honored with a public celebration of life in his hometown of Oakland, California, this May.
The Wiggins family announced the commemorative event through an emotional Instagram post on Thursday (March 20).
The post highlighted the immense love and support received from admirers, musicians and communities around the globe following Wiggins’ passing.
“The outpouring of love from fans, friends, fellow musicians, and communities worldwide has been nothing short of extraordinary,” the family’s statement read. “Each message, tribute, and shared memory is a testament to how deeply D’Wayne’s music resonated with souls across generations and borders.”
In collaboration with Oakland city officials, the Wiggins family will host an outdoor music festival celebrating the artist’s life and influential musical contributions. The event will be held in May, and the family will announce the details soon.
The family stressed that this public celebration will be the sole official event in partnership with the city. They also requested privacy and respect as they plan a separate private memorial service in accordance with Wiggins’ wishes.
D’Wayne Wiggins died on Friday, March 7, 2025, at age 64 from complications related to bladder cancer. He had privately fought the illness for approximately one year.
His passing occurred peacefully in the morning hours, surrounded by close family members and loved ones.
The musician’s death was initially announced by his family through social media statements two days after revealing he was experiencing “medical complications.”
D’Wayne Wiggins was widely recognized for pioneering contributions to the R&B and Hip-Hop scenes. Tony! Toni! Toné! rose to prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s with hits like “Feels Good,” “Anniversary,” and “It Never Rains (In Southern California).”
Hollywood and poker – weird? Not at all. Many movie and music stars love the excitement of this game, because in it, as in their profession, you need to keep face, bluff and calculate the opponents. Someone prefers cozy home games in the circle of famous friends, someone appears in poker clubs in Las Vegas, and there are those who sit down at the table in large tournaments, where millions are at stake. For example, Ben Affleck not only likes poker, but even won serious tournaments, and Tobey Maguire is rumored to have participated in underground games with huge stakes. Let’s find out which celebrity poker players are not just fans of the game, but real masters of bluffing.
Hollywood Actors Who Love Playing Poker
When celebrities sit down at the poker table, they remain as competitive as they would on a movie set. Many actors don’t just love the game, they immerse themselves in it on a professional level, participating in tournaments and even winning impressive sums. Some do it for the sake of excitement, others – for prestige. Let’s find out which Hollywood stars are seriously into poker and what attracted them to this game.
Ben Affleck – From High-Stakes Games to Tournament Champion
Ben Affleck is not just a Hollywood star, but one of the most famous poker players among celebrities. He has been spotted many times in elite cash games with huge stakes, and in 2004 he even won the prestigious California State Poker Championship tournament, taking home a prize of $356,400. Affleck is known for his analytical approach to the game and has even taken lessons from professionals to pump up his skills.
Tobey Maguire – The Underground Poker King
Tobey Maguire may have been a humble man on screen, but at the poker table he turned into a real predator. In Hollywood, he is considered the king of underground games, especially in elite poker parties organized for the richest people in America. He is rumored to have made millions from such games, and his style is characterized by hard bluffing and mathematical miscalculation.
Matt Damon – A Poker Enthusiast Inspired by Rounders
Matt Damon might not have been such a passionate poker player if it weren’t for his role in the cult movie Rounders (1998). In preparation for the role, he studied poker with real professionals, and he was so passionate about it that he continued to play after filming. Damon even participated in the World Series of Poker (WSOP), the largest poker tournament in the world, where he competed against the best players.
Kevin Hart – Comedian, Actor, and Poker Ambassador
Kevin Hart is not just a comedian, but a true poker ambassador. He has worked with PokerStars, participating in high-stakes tournaments and promoting the game. Despite the fact that he has more fun at the table than trying to turn pro, Hart does play for serious money. His playing style is aggressive and expressive, which fits his comedic nature.
Musicians Who Are Passionate About Poker
When it comes to poker, musicians are just as good as the pros. Their love of excitement, attention to detail and ability to control emotions make them dangerous competitors. Whether they’re rappers, metallers or producers, they find a new field of expression at the poker table.
Nelly – Hip-Hop Star with a Poker Passion
Rapper Nelly, known for his hits Hot in Herre and Dilemma, got into poker for more than just entertainment. He has repeatedly participated in the WSOP and appeared at the tables of high-stakes tournaments.
In 2007, he became part of PokerStars’ Hip-Hop Team, making him even more recognizable in the poker world. Nelly is known for his aggressive style of play, is not afraid to take risks and likes to put his opponents in front of tough decisions.
Scott Ian – Metal Guitarist Who Dominates the Tables
Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian is not only a thrash metal legend, but also a serious poker player. He participates in major tournaments and has reached the final stages of the competition more than once.
His analytical approach and patience at the table make him a dangerous opponent. Ian himself has admitted that poker helps him practice self-control, a skill that is so important in the world of music and show business.
Steve Albini – Music Producer and WSOP Bracelet Winner
Steve Albini, one of the most respected music producers known for his work with Nirvana, Pixies and PJ Harvey, has proven that poker is more than just a hobby for him. In 2018, he won a WSOP bracelet, beating over 300 opponents and taking home a $105,000 prize.
Private Games and Exclusive Poker Circles for Celebrities
In the world of celebrity poker, there is a special category of games that are not written about in the public lists of tournaments. These are private poker nights where the stakes can reach six-figure sums and the opponents are Hollywood stars, famous athletes and business tycoons. In such games not only the process is important, but also the atmosphere, where professional poker players, actors and musicians fight not only for money, but also for prestige.
High-Stakes Hollywood Home Games
Los Angeles and New York host some of the most famous underground poker games, which are impossible to get to without a personal invitation. These parties are organized in luxurious mansions or elite penthouses, and the entrance ticket is not only an impressive bankroll, but also belonging to a closed circle.
One of the most famous participants of such games was Tobey Maguire, whose name is associated with the underground poker circles of Hollywood. In the early 2000s, he was part of one of the most exclusive games organized by Molly Bloom (known for the movie Molly’s Game). These games also featured Ben Affleck, Leonardo DiCaprio and Matt Damon, and the stakes could reach millions of dollars a night.
Nowadays such private poker games have not lost their relevance, they have just become even more classified. It is said that in elite poker circles you can often meet Dan Bilzerian, a famous poker high roller, who claims to have made hundreds of millions on private games.
Celebrity Charity Poker Tournaments
Not all celebrity poker games take place behind closed doors. Many celebrities prefer to participate in charity tournaments where their winnings go to support various foundations.
One of the biggest such tournaments is the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure (PCA) Charity Event, where stars such as Kevin Hart, Aaron Paul and Jennifer Tilly can be seen. Another popular event is the One Drop Foundation Tournament, organized in partnership with the WSOP. This tournament featured Leonardo DiCaprio and Tony Parker, helping to raise funds to provide access to clean water for those in need.
Celebrities also often participate in special poker nights hosted by sports teams, movie studios or charities.
How Celebrities Influence the Popularity of Poker
Celebrities have long been an important part of the poker industry. Their participation in major tournaments, publicity for poker brands and even appearances in poker movies attract new players, making the game more popular. When a world-class celebrity sits down at a poker table, millions of fans become interested in the game, trying their hand in online rooms or at live tables.
Poker Endorsements and Sponsorship Deals
Poker companies actively cooperate with global stars, signing advertising deals and making them ambassadors of their brands. It’s not just a marketing move – celebrities help shatter the myth that poker is a game only for professionals.
The most famous examples are:
Kevin Hart is an actor and comedian who has worked with PokerStars promoting poker as entertainment and a social game;
Rafael Nadal is a tennis legend who has partnered with PokerStars to show poker’s connection to athletic endurance and strategy;
Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar are soccer players who have become the faces of poker platforms, attracting millions of sports fans to the game.
Even those who don’t participate in poker tournaments often appear in poker rooms’ commercials and online campaigns.
Hollywood’s Impact on Poker’s Popularity
Movies and TV series have also played a huge role in popularizing poker. Some scenes have become iconic and inspired thousands of people to start playing.
The most iconic examples:
Rounders (1998) is a movie starring Matt Damon and Edward Norton that is considered by many to be the Bible of Poker;
Casino Royale (Casino Royale, 2006) – The poker scene played by Daniel Craig (James Bond) created an incredible hype around the game;
TV series and reality shows – projects like High Stakes Poker and Poker After Dark have given viewers a glimpse into the world of high stakes poker.
Hollywood and celebrities together have made poker a part of popular culture.
The Ongoing Relationship Between Celebrities and Poker
Poker remains a favorite pastime for actors, musicians and athletes because of its intellectual component, competitive spirit and the opportunity to experience excitement without having to go on stage or in a sports arena.
One of the reasons why stars choose poker is its versatility. It’s perfect for both social parties and high-stakes private clubs. Many celebrities find it a way to relax, while some see it as a serious challenge and a path to new achievements.
Another factor is prestige. Participation in the biggest poker tournaments, such as the WSOP, adds celebrity poker players status and allows them to prove that they can win not only on the screen or stage, but also at the card table.
Poker for celebrities is more than just a pastime. It’s an opportunity to prove themselves, to test their luck and strategic thinking, and sometimes to make their mark on the history of the game.
Eminem is at the heart of a legal battle as former employee Joseph Strange faces federal charges for allegedly stealing and selling unreleased tracks from the rapper’s private collection.
Strange, a 46-year-old former audio engineer, worked at Eminem’s Effigy recording studio in Ferndale, Michigan, from 2007 until 2021, per WWNY TV.
He faces serious federal charges, including criminal copyright infringement and interstate transportation of stolen property.
Authorities allege Strange swiped more than two dozen unreleased Eminem songs spanning nearly two decades, from 1999 through 2018.
The stolen tracks were reportedly stored securely on password-protected hard drives in a locked studio safe.
Federal prosecutors claim Strange secretly sold the unreleased material for around $50,000 worth of Bitcoin. Among the buyers was a Canadian individual using the online alias “Doja Rat,” who later leaked the songs publicly on platforms like Reddit and YouTube in January 2025.
The theft came to light when Effigy studio employees recognized Eminem’s unreleased tracks circulating online and promptly alerted the FBI.
Federal agents executed a search warrant at Strange’s residence, uncovering thousands of audio files, handwritten lyric sheets, and even an unreleased Eminem music video.
If convicted on all charges, Strange could face up to 15 years behind bars—five years for copyright infringement and an additional 10 years for interstate transportation of stolen goods.
Eminem’s camp was quick to condemn the alleged betrayal. His spokesperson, Dennis Dennehy, told Variety, “The significant damage caused by a trusted employee to Eminem’s artistic legacy and creative integrity cannot be overstated, let alone the enormous financial losses incurred by the many creators and collaborators that deserve protection for their decades of work. We will continue to take any and all steps necessary to protect Eminem’s art and will stop at nothing to do so.”
Drake scored a staggering $40 million gambling jackpot at Dave and Buster’s in January 2024 and spilled the details in a new video ad for the online casino Stake released Thursday night (March 20).
The Hip-Hop superstar recounted the surreal evening, recalling how an unknown woman became his lucky charm at the roulette wheel.
“The biggest win I ever had. I was in Dave and Busters,” Drake explained. “I was getting this random girl to call roulette numbers. For me, I hit like eight out of 10 numbers, and I think by the end of the night, we had won. Like, 38 million? 40 million? Yeah, $40 million. It’s crazy, the craziest night ever gambling for sure, January, January of 2024.”
Drake is no stranger to high-stakes wagers. The Toronto-born rapper has previously made headlines for his extravagant wins and equally spectacular losses.
Among his notable triumphs, Drake pocketed $17.9 million from a single roulette spin in May 2022 and raked in over $24.9 million playing roulette alongside rapper French Montana two months later.
He also cashed in $3.2 million betting on UFC London fights in July 2022 and won $2.7 million backing UFC fighter Israel Adesanya in April 2023.
But the “Hotline Bling” hitmaker has also seen his share of costly defeats. Drake reportedly lost nearly $25 million in a casino session with French Montana. He also dropped $2 million betting on Adesanya at UFC 281 and another $1.6 million when Adesanya faced Alex Pereira in November 2022. Other notable losses include $1 million on the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final and $700,000 on NBA and NHL wagers in a single season.
In the Stake video, Drake also shared his admiration for NBA legend Michael Jordan’s gambling prowess, dubbing him the ultimate betting champ.
“The real-life gambling G.O.A.T. to me, controversial take, but probably Michael Jordan, to be honest,” Drake said.
Drake recalled beating Jordan at ping pong at an All-Star Weekend in Toronto.
“He kept just betting bands,” Drake recounted. “10 bands, 20 bands, like, just kept betting because he just couldn’t stomach the loss.”
Fivio Foreign landed behind bars after allegedly pointing a gun at a woman on New Year’s Day in Edgewater, New Jersey.
The Brooklyn-born Hip-Hop artist has been in custody at a New Jersey detention center since January 18, TMZ reports. Fivio is facing multiple serious charges, including aggravated assault, unlawful weapon possession, and making terroristic threats.
The incident reportedly unfolded when the woman approached Fivio seeking assistance to jumpstart her stalled vehicle. Instead of lending a hand, the rapper allegedly threatened her with his gun, reportedly saying, “If I see you in front this building again, there is going to be a f****** problem.”
Witnesses who recognized the rapper immediately dialed 911. Surveillance footage from the apartment complex reportedly backs up the woman’s account.
Fivio’s attorney maintains the rapper’s innocence, arguing that authorities found no firearm in his client’s possession.
The lawyer described the prosecution’s case as weak, suggesting it may not hold up in court and believes Fivio Foreign will be out in the next couple of months.
Legal troubles aren’t new territory for the “Big Drip” rapper. In October 2020, he was arrested in New Jersey on a simple assault charge.
Months later, in April 2021, Fivio faced charges for weapons possession, resisting arrest, and having a defaced firearm.
Even as he remains incarcerated, Fivio Foreign continues to release new music, seemingly unfazed by his current legal predicament. Just two days after his arrest, on January 20, 2025, he dropped a single titled “PlaqueBoyMax.”
One month later, on February 20, 2025, he followed up with another track, “Get Out The Way.”
Fivio Foreign reportedly remains detained and is awaiting further legal proceedings.
Rappers, you have to understand something. When you stay in hotels, perform at concert venues and interact with regular people—they talk. You can’t treat folks like trash and expect them not to tell people. Welp… I’m “people.”
Playboi Carti is the latest one being talked about. Once upon a time—but not too long ago—Carti did a show at a venue in a major city. I’ll keep it vague out of respect (and to avoid giving away too much), but he and his crew were posted up in a Skybox… and reportedly tore the place to pieces. This was a sports complex that was converted into a concert house. They treated everyone terribly and did a few other things that had people raising their eyebrows.
Somehow, some way, the crew left people with the impression that they were devil worshippers. Now, I’m not out here confirming that Carti is a follower of Satan, but there’s a lot of sulfur. Word is he had an inverted cross which definitely symbolizes being anti-Christian or one could say one who is not aligned with Jesus.
Fast forward to today. Carti recently performed at Rolling Loud and brought out a surprise guest who shocked the crowd. I don’t even know dude’s name, and I’m not about to say it here—that would just give him more shine. But whoever it was, the appearance even shocked Kai Cenat and had people believing Carti had literally brought a devil worshipper on stage. Look below.
Kai Cenat’s face says it all. Artists often flirt with devilish imagery to seem edgy and it usually falls off of them like a bad wig in the wind. But Carti is holding firm and bringing people with him. It’s starting to feel like more than just aesthetics. I don’t know for sure… but something’s off. Either way, they play too much.
Back to the lady in the Skybox. She was not a fan. And I don’t mean she hated Carti in a demonic way but in a very Christian way. She was genuinely upset about how disrespectful the crew was and how they trashed the suite. They left the staff, which was probably minimum wage or something, behind to clean up all their mess. This venue, located on a college campus, has already decided they’ll never book him again.
I guess even the devil can’t cover all the bills, because this particular spot made it clear that Playboi Carti isn’t welcome back.
Drake is not backing down in his lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG) over allegations that Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics in “Not Like Us” falsely labeled him a pedophile—and now, he’s throwing actor and media personality Michael Rapaport into the legal fire.
In a new court filing, Drake’s legal team argued that UMG’s attempt to dismiss the defamation lawsuit relies on a flawed legal precedent, specifically, Rapaport’s failed defamation case against Barstool Sports.
Drake claims UMG is trying to dodge accountability by citing the Rapaport case, which involved a series of hostile and exaggerated online feuds rather than serious accusations of criminal behavior.
According to Drake’s filing, UMG is grasping at legal straws, comparing a case where Rapaport sued Barstool over insults like being called a “fraud” and a “creepy herpes riddled failure” to one where Drake was publicly accused of being a pedophile.
The difference? Context and believability.
Rapaport’s case was dismissed because the court ruled that no reasonable person would interpret Barstool’s over-the-top attacks as literal truth.
But in Drake’s case, he argues that millions of people worldwide did, in fact, take Kendrick’s lyrics seriously.
The song at the center of Drake’s lawsuit—Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” —became a cultural phenomenon, was performed at the 2025 Super Bowl and swept the Grammys in 2025.
Drake’s filing stresses how this global exposure made the allegations even more damaging.
Drake also points out that UMG has continued to promote the song despite knowing the damage it has caused him.
His lawyers emphasize that unlike the Barstool case, which was essentially social media mudslinging, Kendrick’s lyrics were presented in a format that implied inside knowledge—suggesting to fans that there was actual evidence backing the claim.
On top of that, Drake claims the impact has gone far beyond online gossip. His filing details real-world consequences, including vandalism of his businesses and a shooting at his home.
Unlike Rapaport’s situation, where the court ruled that no one actually believed the defamatory statements, Drake argues that his reputation and personal safety have been put at risk.
While UMG has pushed to get the case thrown out, arguing that Drake is better because he lost the battle and that Kendrick’s lyrics are artistic expression and protected opinion, Drake isn’t letting them off the hook.
His lawyers demand that UMG turn over internal communications to determine whether the company knowingly profited from spreading a false narrative.
Yella Beezy was arrested on Thursday (March 20) for the 2020 murder of Houston rapper Mo3. He’s been charged with capital murder. According to Dallas County inmate records, he was picked up by authorities at 4:45 p.m. local time, accused of intentionally and knowingly causing the death of Mo3 (real name Melvin Noble). No bond is listed.
Mo3 was shot and killed on a Dallas interstate in November 2020, just a few days after King Von was murdered in Atlanta. A Dallas County grand jury indicted 22-year-old Kewon White in February 2020 and on April 21 of that same year, the same grand jury indicted 28-year-old Devin Brown as the second suspect in the case.
At the time, Dallas News reported jealously played a pivotal role in the murder. Brown, who was already in custody by the time White was arrested, told police he was aware Mo3 was dating “a known witness” and got upset over a Facebook video involving the late rapper, however he denied being involved in the shooting.
However, police said cellphone data placed White near the apartment where Mo3 stayed the night before. Phone records also showed several calls between Brown and White on the days leading up to the murder.
Not long after his arrest, Brown pleaded guilty to federal charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute a controlled substance. White was also indicted on a charge of aggravated assault in connection with Mo3’s murder.
Mo3 was signed to Boosie Badazz’s label BadAzz Music Syndicate and just 28 years old at the time of his death. As far as Yella Beezy’s connection to the killing, documents accuse him of enlisting White to carry out the murder.
Jim Jones clapped back at Ye’s social media jab by accusing the rapper of drug use.
Jones took to Instagram on Thursday (March 20) and said: “Ye sniffin’ Ye, lol but keep my name alive champ we love KanYE,” turning “Ye” into a playful double entendre about cocaine use.
The Harlem rapper’s response came after Ye suddenly lashed out online, initially tweeting “F### JIM JONES” without explanation, despite the two artists recently appearing friendly during a Tokyo trip just weeks earlier.
The Chicago rapper later clarified his grievances on X.com, accusing Jones of handsomely profiting from a business introduction.
“SOOO JIM JONES GOT PAID 2 MILLION TO INTRODUCE ME TO A GENTLEMAN NAMED MR PINK TO DISCUSS MY CRYPTO COIN AND NEVER TOLD ME HE WAS GETTING 2 MILLION AND NEVER CUT ME IN,” he wrote.
Adding insult to injury, he mocked Jones’ technical skills, claiming the rapper couldn’t handle a simple document request.
“I ACTUALLY LOVE JIM JONES AND I’LL NEVER NEVER GO FULL YE, BUT I WANT THE PDF MORE THAN THE MONEY,” Ye tweeted.
Their Tokyo meetup seemed to go well, and Ye even sported a Dipset chain as a gesture of solidarity. Despite the pointed barb, Jones kept the tone fairly lighthearted.
“He’s lucky I don’t have time to talk bout lies right now only th [sic] truth lol lol lol,” Jim Jones added in addition to advertising his latest album At The Church Steps.
Kay Flock was convicted on federal racketeering and firearm charges by a jury in New York City on Thursday (March 20) after prosecutors successfully argued his rap lyrics were not just entertainment but evidence of violent crimes.
Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky didn’t hold back in celebrating the conviction, emphasizing the verdict’s significance against the Bronx-based rapper.
“[Kay Flock] instilled fear across the community with his violent actions, and then threatened rivals, bragged about shootings, and taunted victims in his rap lyrics,” Podolsky said.
The jury found Kay Flock guilty of racketeering conspiracy, use of a firearm resulting in death, attempted murder and assault with a dangerous weapon.
However, jurors acquitted him on a separate murder charge connected to the 2021 death of Hwascar Hernandez.
The trial, which kicked off March 10, 2025, attracted significant attention due to prosecutors’ controversial strategy of introducing Kay Flock’s music and videos as evidence.
Prosecutors argued that the rapper’s lyrics explicitly detailed his involvement in violent acts, notably citing his music video “Who Really Bugging,” which allegedly referenced a specific shooting incident.
Defense attorney Jeffrey Lichtman vigorously contested the charges, claiming the December 2021 shooting was purely self-defense. Lichtman argued that surveillance footage backed up his client’s assertion of innocence.
Additionally, Kay Flock’s legal team portrayed the prosecution’s approach as an unfair attack on drill rap, a subgenre of Hip-Hop often criticized for violent themes.
Kay Flock’s legal troubles began when he surrendered to authorities in December 2021 following the killing of Hernandez. He was later indicted in February 2023 alongside seven other defendants in a sweeping federal racketeering case.
Podolsky praised the collaborative efforts of prosecutors and law enforcement in ending the rapper’s alleged reign of violence.
“Thanks to the hard work of the career prosecutors of this Office and our law enforcement partners, the cycle of violence that [Kay Flock] engaged in is over. This Office remains resolute in its commitment to prosecuting gang members who sow fear and spread violence on our city streets,” Podolsky added.
Kay Flock faces a mandatory life sentence at his upcoming sentencing hearing scheduled for July 16, 2025.
B.G. is back. And his return is being felt all over the globe, from the streets to the internet. In this candid conversation, the New Orleans native opens up about his return to society following an extended incarceration.
Nearly 13 years in jail has the Baby Gangsta offering an illuminating perspective on a music industry transformed. Seismic digital shifts, social media and more have fundamentally changed B.G. and yet, he remains fundamentally the same.
Throughout his imprisonment, B.G. kept his pen sharp, refining his craft behind bars. His ability to fight back is intact too. He’s the new poster child for the First Amendment.
His lyrics have been scrutinized and the authorities are forcing him to be the role model he never wanted to be. In fact, he compares himself to Denzel Washington in “Training Day.” Witness the growth of a Hip-Hop game changer.
Also check for all the new projects and collaborations B.G has on the slate. B.G. re-imagines positive change and clean living, despite those that wish to impose their value systems. ChrisDorseyisn’t the one. Read on or watch the interview below.
Chuck Creekmur (AllHipHop): BG, it’s great to see you out here again. What’s life been like since you got back?
B.G.: It’s been beautiful, man, just adjusting and sliding back into society. Rebuilding my career, hustling, and doing what I love. It’s been a process, especially adapting to how drastically things changed while I was gone.
AllHipHop: What was the biggest shock when you first came out?
B.G.: Social media. When I went away, we still had CDs. Coming out to a digital world, learning about streaming—it’s wild. Social media’s definitely a gift and a curse.
AllHipHop: Do social media comments bother you?
B.G.: Early on, I learned not to even look. People hide behind dummy pages to say whatever. It can mess with your mental if you’re not strong. I’m comfortable in my skin, don’t need validation from the comments.
AllHipHop: How was reconnecting with your family after 12 and a half years?
B.G.: Man, it’s been amazing but emotional. When I left, my kids were babies; now they’re grown—my son’s in college, my daughter’s graduating. You can’t get the lost time back, but we’re creating new memories.
AllHipHop: Did you write a lot in prison?
B.G.: Initially, I didn’t. I was bitter, felt over-sentenced. But I started writing again, initially too focused on my jail experience. Eventually, I shifted my mindset to writing as if I was already free, envisioning my future. That’s when it really clicked.
Chris “B.G.” Dorsey At Home.
AllHipHop: Tory Lanez dropped music from jail and got praised for it. Did you consider doing that?
B.G.: If I was releasing from inside, I definitely would’ve. But I didn’t want to come out and only rap about jail. People quickly pigeonhole you. Balance is key.
AllHipHop: There’s controversy around your lyrics needing to be reviewed. What’s going on there?
B.G.: They tried controlling my content, wanted me to rap like Will Smith or a gospel rapper. I won part of the fight, but I still have to submit lyrics to my PO, who shares them with prosecutors. They claim I’m glorifying violence, but it’s just entertainment. I’m not glorifying crime; I’m depicting reality.
AllHipHop: Why do you think they’re coming at you so hard?
B.G.: Honestly, because I didn’t cooperate. I wouldn’t snitch. They had me under pressure trying to flip on people, but I stayed solid. Now I’m back, successful, and vocal—that irritates them.
AllHipHop: You compared yourself to Denzel Washington, which raised some eyebrows. What’s your take on that?
B.G.: Nah, that wasn’t literal. I meant just because Arnold Schwarzenegger played the Terminator doesn’t mean he supports killing, right? Just like Denzel playing a crooked cop in “Training Day” doesn’t mean he supports crooked cops. I’m Christopher Dorsey playing BG—it’s entertainment. I could’ve used other examples, like Robert De Niro playing a mob boss without being in the mob. People took it literally, suggesting I’m active in the streets. To be clear, the old BG definitely wasn’t an angel. I did things that could’ve got me locked up. But the new BG? Completely different—I’m staying out of trouble and off the streets entirely.
AllHipHop: Speaking of music, tell us about the new album.
B.G.: The album’s called Freedom of Speech. It’s my truth, featuring Juvenile, Boosie, Birdman, E-40, Fredo Bang, and more. Picking tracks was tough because of surveillance by the authorities, but it’s authentic. I got major projects lined up, including albums with Mike Will Made-It, Boosie, and Birdman.
AllHipHop: What’s the status with Lil Wayne? Rumors of tension?
B.G.: Wayne’s my brother. Yeah, we’ve had disagreements, I spoke out when I was in my feelings, but we cleared it up directly. We’re solid.
AllHipHop: What’s your take on current Hip-Hop?
B.G.: My only issue is the lack of originality. Too many artists sound identical. I believe in authenticity and setting trends, not following them.
AllHipHop: You coined “Bling Bling,” now in the dictionary. How’s that feel?
B.G.: It’s an honor. We created a timeless term in Hip-Hop culture. Cash Money, the Hot Boys—that’s forever embedded in this culture.
AllHipHop: Is a Hot Boys movie coming?
B.G.: Absolutely. It’s definitely in the works. The story needs to be told.
AllHipHop: Thanks for your time, BG.
B.G.: No, thank you, man. Looking forward to doing this in person next time.
Kendrick Lamar could be tapped to participate in the festivities surrounding the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
On Thursday (March 20), a report from ESPN revealed Kendrick Lamar could be making a major appearance at the 2028 Summer Olympics during the opening ceremony. Kendrick is expected to play a key role during the ceremony on July 14, where he’s will likely be joining a line-up of super star artists and performers.
According to organizers of the games, the focus is turning the Olympics into a symbol of resilience and rebirth as the recovery efforts continue following the devastating wildfires that swept through earlier this year. Organizing committee chairman Casey Wasserman spoke about the importance of using the Games to inspire a new chapter for Los Angeles.
“The rebirth, the rebuild, maybe reimagining L.A. 2.0 – and the Olympics as a catalyst for all those things – we think is really part of our ethos,” he said. Wasserman, who also represents Kendrick Lamar through his international talent agency, hinted that the rapper’s involvement was all but confirmed.
“He is truly an L.A. icon, so I think it would be a pretty fair bet that Kendrick [Lamar] will be involved in the Olympics in Los Angeles in some way,” he said.
From the Super Bowl to the Olympic Games?
During a recent interview with the AP, Casey Wasserman of the Wasserman Media Group, which represents Kendrick Lamar, said, "it would be a pretty fair bet that Kendrick will be involved in the Olympics in Los Angeles in some way." pic.twitter.com/SPVrlO8a20
Wasserman also expressed optimism for the Games, ensuring that athletes, officials and fans would be welcomed and safe.
“We got very lucky from an Olympics perspective,” he said, emphasizing that the true priority remains helping residents get back to their homes and lives. “What’s important is helping people get back settled.”
Lamar’s anticipated appearance adds a distinct cultural touch to the opening ceremony, following his unforgettable performance at the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show. Additionally, the announcement of Kendrick Lamar’s participation in the 2028 Olympics comes after his music played a pivotal role in the 2024 Paris Olympics. His track “Not Like Us” Drake diss track quickly became a viral sensation, not just for its sharp lyrics but for the reactions it sparked. The song gained unexpected attention when footage emerged of U.S. basketball stars, including Steph Curry and LeBron James, discussing their feelings about the track during a pre-game warm-up.
Curry, famously indifferent to the song’s overplay, jokingly remarked, “It’s not the only song in America,” while LeBron appeared ready to hear something else. Their comments ignited a broader debate about the song’s cultural relevance and whether it had overstayed its welcome. Music producer Jermaine Dupri weighed in, offering a perspective that aligned with the ongoing discussion about the impact of music in today’s industry.
Dupri argued that “Not Like Us” had made an undeniable impact on the culture, a level of influence that few current rappers seem to have reached.
“The reason why it’s no male stars in Hip-Hop anymore that have the impact that LL COOL J has and had, is because the goal in Hip-Hop used to be impact,” Dupri explained.
In the wake of the funeral of his mother Voletta Wallace, a deal has been made forging a partnership between the late Biggie Smalls’ estate and Primary wave.
According to Billboard, Primary Wave announced a major deal with the estate of The Notorious B.I.G., acquiring a stake in the rapper’s music publishing, recordings and certain rights to his name, image and likeness on Thursday (March 20).
While the exact financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, reports suggest that the overall value of Biggie Smalls’ estate is estimated at $200 million. The agreement comes just months after Voletta Wallace reportedly reached the deal with Primary Wave shortly before her passing in February.
Biggie’s estate partnered up with Primary Wave as they acquired a stake in BIG’s publishing and recordings, as well as certain name, image and likeness rights for $200M
Biggie has continuously been regarded as one of most influential figures in Hip-Hop history in the decades following his 1997 shooting death. His catalog includes some of rap’s most iconic works, such as Ready to Die, Life After Death and Born Again. Together, these albums have sold over 28 million copies in the U.S. and have consistently appeared on the Billboard charts.
Primary Wave, known for its extensive portfolio of artists including Whitney Houston, Nirvana and Prince, plans to collaborate closely with the estate to ensure Biggie’s legacy continues to thrive. The company’s focus will include licensing his music for biopics and other media projects.
“The estate and Primary Wave will collaborate on all business moving forward in an effort to continue the incredible and innovative ork done thus far with one goal in mind, to keep the legacy of The Notorious B.I.G. alive,” the company said in a statement.
However, the deal has not come without controversy. Gene Deal, a former associate of Biggie Smalls, has accused music executives close to Sean “Diddy” Combs of exploiting Voletta Wallace during her final days. In a recent interview, Deal claimed that while Wallace was gravely ill and under hospice care, two longtime Combs confidants, Mark Pitts and Wayne Barrow, were allegedly negotiating the sale of Biggie’s catalog without the full understanding or benefit of the Wallace family.
According to Deal, Pitts and Barrow were primarily motivated by personal gain, rather than securing the best deal for the rapper’s estate or his children.
“They were Puff’s boys,” Deal stated, referencing the pair’s close ties to Combs during Biggie’s life.
Deal further criticized their actions, suggesting that they were working to finalize a deal worth $100 to $150 million for themselves, rather than for the family.
Negotiations with Primary Wave were reportedly nearing completion as of the time of Deal’s remarks, with Pitts and Barrow serving as representatives for the estate. The tensions surrounding the deal and the accusations of opportunism have raised concerns over the ethics of how the sale was handled, especially during the sensitive final days of Voletta Wallace’s life.
Teyana Taylor has finally broken her silence about the drama surrounding her divorce from the father of her children, Iman Shumpert.
In a recent emotional livestream, the singer and actress accused her ex-husband of using media outlets to shape the public narrative of their split while failing to support or protect her throughout the process. The issue first arose days after Taylor shared an Instagram post of herself pictured with British actor Aaron Pierre following the Oscars, reports began surfacing describing a supposed lavish divorce settlement.
Taylor reportedly walked away with four luxury properties valued at over $10 million, multiple expensive vehicles—including a $300,000 Maybach, $70,000 Mercedes Sprinter and customized tour bus—and complete control of her businesses. She claims the ex-NBA champion is to blame for the circulation of the details of their divorce, and alleged he hasn’t “protected” her in the same way she has shielded him throughout their divorce proceedings.
“When I came to Iman [Shumpert] and told him that I didn’t feel safe, nothing else should have mattered,” she said. “Why are we even on this phone arguing? I’m coming to you saying, ‘Yo baby daddy I don’t feel safe, like n##### are talking about they’re going off me about boom boom boom,’ I’m telling you I don’t feel safe, you, ‘Yeah well back in 2023 when I did,’ huh? What are we talking about? I’ve done nothing but protecting the whole way through.”
Teyana Taylor says she has proof that Iman is paying blogs to post things about their divorce.
She claims she’s protected him throughout this entire process and even when she went to him about death threats, he did nothing.
Taylor emphasized that she had always tried to keep their divorce private, even alleging she made moves to keep his actions from being revealed to the public when Iman took steps to expose their legal battles.
“You can even Google Teyana and Iman’s divorce,” she said. “All you ever see me speak on is begging n##### to stay out of our business. Even when he filed the motion to make our names public to the world, I literally went on and blamed TMZ. I could have easily said, ‘It’s really unfortunate that my ex-husband would make our divorce public.’ I did not.”
Despite her efforts, she claims Shumpert continued to manipulate the narrative. However, one of Teyana’s most shocking claims was that he deliberately allowed damaging stories about her to surface while she stood by him.
“Protected him when all my utilities and s### was cut off and it made it to the blogs because it was in a court,” she said. “Who came running to the internet protecting him? Iman ain’t turn nothing off, ain’t nobody turn nothing off. But it’s the problem that every single time something has came out, I’ve protected him myself and our children with love, respect and grace, and none of that was reciprocated.”
While remarking on how the emotional toll of the situation has been overwhelming, Taylor further placed the blame for her current circumstances on Iman. Along with alleging that Iman gets “a kick” out of the anxiety she says social media induces for her, she claimed she has evidence that he’s is paying blogs to control the media narrative surrounding their divorce.
“It’s awfully strange how every single time something come out about me it come out on the same blog it starts off little and then it gets bigger and bigger and bigger and bigger,” she said. “I have the proof that you’re paying people to post this stuff. Like, come on.”
Taylor ended the explosive live by begging social media users to allow her to “get her back blown out in peace” but not before clearing up yet another misconception she feels is being misrepresented in the media cycle.
In a separate clip circulating from the lengthy live video she shared, Taylor addressed the discrepancy between the narrative that she is after Shumpert’s money because of his NBA career. She vehemently denied the idea that she’s a “gold digger” referencing how he hasn’t played professionally since 2020 and that she was making more money than him throughout the divorce.
Teyana Taylor goes on IG live and speaks about her divorce with Iman Shumpert. pic.twitter.com/gpjpZas8ZY
Drake’s associate Top5 has Issued an ominous warning as Kanye West allegedly plans visit to their home turf.
During a recent livestream, Drake’s associate Top5 added fuel to the fire simmering the social media feud between himself and West by making a series of cryptic, threatening remarks about West’s rumored plans to visit the Toronto. Among other things, Top5 appeared to imply that the West may not be welcome when discussing West’s erratic behavior via a phone call on stream.
“That guy lost it—that guy ain’t the same man,” Top5 said. He also hinted at behind-the-scenes issues, referencing West’s former alliance to the Kardashians and Khloe’s ex-husband Lamar Odom, adding, “Lamar Odom probably passed him the pipe, you know what I mean?”
But the most shocking revelation came when Top5 claimed West had just texted him directly, saying he was headed to Toronto—and without security.
“They just text right now said he’s come to Toronto,” he said. “Let’s see if he’s gangster enough. Let’s see if he’s gangster enough to walk in my city. He said no bodyguards either. That’s what he just text me.”
Though Top5 didn’t explicitly threaten Kanye, his tone suggested that West’s arrival in Toronto might not go without consequences.
“Let’s see what happens, right? I don’t like to say too much on that,” he said.
The comments come after West’s latest social media rant, in which he took shots at Drake once again. West took to Twitter to share screenshots of text messages allegedly sent by Top5.
“Where’s the 30 phone calls in a row now that I posted the weird ass threatening text,” West wrote. He also dismissed Top5’s attempts to intimidate him, saying, “Broooo I don’t care about threats.”
The situation escalated when West labeled Top5 as “Drake’s shooter” and taking a jab at Kim Kardashian, referring to her as an “old white lady.”
“This dumb ass n#### gone get everybody locked up,” Kanye West said of Top5. “Next thing you know Drake gets charged with a Rico.”
Top5 also shared a video directed at 50 Cent asking him to tell Big Meech to stop DM’ing him and calling the ex-drug kingpin a rat hours before he made the statements about West.
