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Cardi B Talks Wanting To Bring Back The Old ‘Playboy’ As Its New Creative Director

Hip Hop megastar Cardi B continues to expand her ever-growing entertainment empire. The Bronx native (born Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar) recently became the first-ever Creative Director In Residence for the Playboy brand.

Playboy hired Cardi to provide artistic direction for sexual wellness merchandise collections, digital editorial, experiential activations, and more. She will also serve as the Founding Creative Director and a founding member of Playboy’s creator-led CENTERFOLD platform.

“Cardi B is a creative genius and we are absolutely thrilled and honored to bring her immense talent and creative vision to Playboy,” said Ben Kohn, Chief Executive Officer of PLBY Group in a press release.

Kohn also commented, “Through her unapologetic commitment to free expression, her dedication to lifting up artistic voices, and her celebration of sex and body positivity, Cardi is the embodiment of the Playboy brand.”

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Cardi B Expects To Feel Pressure To Deliver Sex Appeal Via ‘Playboy’

Billboard caught up with the Diamond-selling recording artist to talk about some of her latest business ventures which include the vodka-infused Whipshots whipped cream. Cardi B is focused on providing old-school sex appeal as Playboy‘s new Creative Director.

“I’ve been meeting with [Playboy] since May. I gave them some ideas that I have because I want the brand. I want sex. Sex appeal. I’m a wild girl,” Cardi told Billboard. “And that’s what I want on the brand. I want to have conversations that people are afraid to have. I want beautiful women.”

The “Wild Side” rapper continued, “I just think of Playboy like back-in-the-day Playboy. That’s what I want. I want to bring that back. I’m excited but now I’m getting a little bit overwhelmed because I could get a lot of pressure, but I know that I could do it.”

Late magazine publisher Hugh Hefner founded Playboy in 1953. The monthly – later quarterly – men’s publication grew into the PLBY Group global media and lifestyle company.

Partially as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ben Kohn announced the Spring 2020 edition of Playboy would be the final printed issue. The magazine is now a digital-only publication.

In addition to her connection with Playboy and Whipshots, Cardi B partnered with Reebok for an exclusive line of sneakers and apparel. The Invasion of Privacy album creator is also reportedly creating a cosmetics brand called “Bardi Beauty.” Cardi B is the executive producer of the Cardi Tries reality show as well.

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Astroworld Festival Victims File $10 Billion Lawsuit Against Travis Scott

Brent Coon & Associates filed cases on behalf of the Travis Scott Astroworld Festival victims. The tragic event took place in Houston on November 5.

Attorney Brent Coon is representing 1,547 Astroworld Festival attendees. The plaintiffs want $10 billion for the resolution of all cases.

In addition, Coon requested the Harris County District Court consolidate all of the involved cases into one trial. The goal is to ensure more efficient management of the docket. A hearing is scheduled for December 13.

“In addition to litigating high-profile mass tragedies all over the county the last 35 years, I also have run a concert promotion company for over 20 years and am very familiar with how you are supposed to plan these events,” states Brent Coon. “What happened at Astroworld was an unconscionable tragedy and it is important that justice is served for all those impacted.”

Coon continues, “I believe our firm is best suited to help lead this case, not only because of the number of victims who have selected our firm to represent them in this action but due to the fact that we possess the extensive legal experience as demonstrated by our lead counsel work on many plant explosions, product recalls, and other mass tort actions.”

Will Texas Pass New Laws Following The Deadly Astroworld Festival?

Brent Coon & Associates is also demanding legislative action in Texas. The potential new laws could include crowd control planning specialists to certify events, mandated training programs for event preparation, and criminal liability for any wrongdoing. 

Dr. G. Keith Still will serve as part of the Coon & Associates legal team in this case. The crowd surge and stampede expert will also hold an advisory/consulting role on governmental investigative commissions such as Governor Greg Abbott’s State of Texas Task Force on Concert Safety Panel. 

“We will roll over every rock in this matter. Everyone associated with these types of events has the power to halt conduct that is resulting in injury to attendees,” says Brent Coon. “It has been terribly disappointing that some defendants have already gone public misstating and down-playing their responsibilities that attach to events such as this. Anyone involved can at least temporarily stop an event when safety becomes a serious issue.”

Coon adds, “The fact that not a single company or individual involved in this incident EVER made an effort to do so here, when it was readily apparent things were out of hand, is shameful. Trying to publicly dodge culpability is irresponsible and inconsistent with what really goes on behind the scenes in these events. I know. I run them and I have had to stop one and did so before anyone got hurt. It’s part of the job.”

Ten people, including 9-year-old Ezra Blount, died as a result of the violent crowd surge at the Astroworld Festival. Dozens of people were hospitalized. Over 300 people were treated for injuries at the event’s field hospital on site. Travis Scott and others are now facing multiple high-dollar lawsuits.

Styles P & Havoc Release “Nightmares 2 Dreams” Music Video

Two of New York’s most prominent Hip Hop figures joined forces to create a collaborative body of work. Styles P and Havoc’s Wreckage Manner joint album arrived on December 3.

The 10-track project features production entirely by Havoc. Both emcees contributed verses to the LP. They also worked together to film music videos.

Visuals for “Nightmares 2 Dreams” hit YouTube on the same day as Wreckage Manner. The video already collected over 130,000 views on the platform.

Havoc rose to prominence as a member of Mobb Deep with the late Prodigy. The Queens-bred tandem is responsible for making the classic 1995 album The Infamous as well as other albums such as 1996’s Hell on Earth, 1999’s Murda Muzik, and 2014’s The Infamous Mobb Deep.

Prior to linking up with Havoc, Styles P is best known as one-third of The Lox. The Yonkers trio dropped 1998’s Money, Power & Respect, 2000’s We Are the Streets, 2016’s Filthy America… It’s Beautiful, and 2020’s Living Off Xperience.

Havoc also worked with The Alchemist for The Silent Partner which came out in 2016. Previously, Styles P teamed up with Talib Kweli for 2017’s The Seven and Dave East for 2018’s Beloved.

Rihanna Says New Music Coming “Soon”

Rihanna has spent the last few years building a colossal business empire worth an estimated $1.7 billion. Fans of her music have longed for something new from the Bajan singer whose most recent project, “Anti,” was released back in 2016. 

However, it seems as though the wait could soon be over as Rhianna teased an imminent release during an exchange with the paparazzi.  

As she was exiting a taxi she was asked: “Any new music? Anything?” Her reply of “Soon soon soon,” is sure to have her eager fans studying her every move in anticipation of a release.  

Meanwhile, Rihanna teased a hint of what to expect from her next musical offering back in September. During an appearance to promote her latest Savage X Fenty show, Rihanna told “Associated Press”: 

“You’re not gonna expect what you hear, just put that in your mind. Whatever you know of Rihanna’s not gonna be what you hear. 

“I’m really experimenting, and music is like fashion, you should be able to play,” she continued. “I should be able to wear whatever I want and I treat music the same way. So, I’m having fun, and it’s going to be completely different.” 

Rihanna Named A National Hero In Barbados

Elsewhere Rihanna was honored by her native Barbados last month after being named the country’s 11th national hero.

“Ambassador Robyn Rihanna Fenty has given service to Barbados which has been exemplified by visionary and pioneering leadership,” Prime Minister Mottley said during the ceremony. “May you continue to shine like a diamond and bring honor to your nation.”  

Rihanna gave a brief speech declaring, “This is a day that I will never, ever forget. It’s also a day that I never saw coming,” she said. “I have traveled the world and received several awards and recognitions, but nothing, nothing compares to being recognized in the soil that you grew in.” 

https://twitter.com/GalerieRihanna/status/1465702661399867404?s=20

The ceremony marked Barbados’ transition from a commonwealth to a republic and saw the Inauguration Ceremony for the country’s first-ever President, Dame Sandra Mason.  

Construction Underway For Kanye West & Drake “Free Larry Hoover Concert”

Kanye West and Drake are just two days away from staging one of the most anticipated performances for some time. 

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Fans of the long-feuding rappers were stunned when it was announced that Ye would be hosting a benefit concert in aid of Larry Hoover featuring Drake. As to be expected, the pair have something monumental in-store and it appears major construction is underway in Los Angeles.  

CBS Los Angeles photojournalist John Schreiber shared aerial footage from the Memorial Coliseum where the show is set to take place.  

“Massive build out tonight for the Ye (formerly Kanye West) and Drake concert set for Dec. 9th at the LA Coliseum,” he wrote. “Looks like a circular mound is being built with sand and concrete or stucco. At first, thought this was a monster truck rally setup. @CBSLA #Ye #Drake #KanyeWest” 

He continued, “The concert is the “Free Larry Hoover” benefit concert and will be Ye’s first concert in five years. Event page says it’s to ‘Raise Awareness and Support for Larry Hoover and the Cause of Prison and Sentencing Reform.’” 

Additionally, reports began to circulate on Twitter that the concert will also air in select IMAX theatres. While Kanye West has featured several performances on Apple Music, there is no word yet whether the Larry Hoover benefit will be streamed on the platform. 

Kanye West and Drake have been beefing for years and tensions hit peak levels when they both released albums this summer. J Prince intervened to help the pair reconcile and they were pictured together last month in Toronto.

Meanwhile, both superstars were among the celebs in attendance at the tribute to the late fashion designer Virgil Abloh. Kanye West and Drake paid their respects at the memorial in Chicago on Monday (Dec. 6). 

50 Cent Shares Success As 66 Kids Enrolled In His Entrepreneur Program Get Jobs

50 Cent has plenty of reasons to celebrate this week after 66 out of the 75 students enrolled in his “G-Unity Business Lab” program secured employment. 

The multimedia mogul took to social media to share the success of the enrollees. He posted a picture of some of the students and proudly referred to them as “my kids.” He wrote: 

“66 of my 75 kids have a job now @gunitybusinesslab. Houston i’m so proud of this program 3 ward, 5 ward let’s get it 💰” 

https://www.instagram.com/p/CXHT2H9uK8R/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

50 Cent started the program after moving to Houston back in May. 75 students joined the G-Unity Business Lab for a 12-week course where they receive an MBA-level curriculum taught by volunteers. 

“When you grow up under circumstances that I grew up under, it starts to feel like the biggest restraint is a financial restraint,” the G-Unit rapper said. “I just want to be able to help provide programs that allow you the information to do it the right way.” 

50 Cent initially invested $300,000 into the program. His partner in the project, Houston Independent School District, matched the figure taking the total to $600,000.  

50 Cent Wants To Empower The Youth

The rapper turned TV star shared his motivation for the scheme during a press conference to launch the program back in May.  

“These opportunities are huge opportunities that I didn’t have,” 50 Cent said. “Being able to provide that in the early stages, I think it changes the direction and the choices that they will make. It prevents them from making some of the mistakes that I made.”   

The students from three high schools meet twice weekly where they learn from professionals in the field. At the end of the year, they have the chance to pitch their business idea to investors. The successful candidate will win financial support for their start-up. Judges including 50 Cent will determine who the victorious budding entrepreneur will be.  

Suspect Charged With Murder In Fatal Shooting Of Clarence Avant’s Wife

29-year-old Aariel Maynor from Los Angeles is facing multiple charges in connection with the death of the wife of music executive Clarence Avant. Maynor has been charged with philanthropist Jacqueline Avant’s murder and the attempted murder of the Avant’s security guard who was reportedly shot at during the robbery though not wounded.  

Maynor is also facing charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and two counts of residential burglary. He was on parole at the time of the shooting on Dec. 1 and has previous felony convictions for assault, robbery, and grand theft.  

Maynor is due to appear in court for the first time today (Tuesday, Dec. 7) at the Airport Branch Courthouse in Los Angeles County. It has not yet been reported whether he has legal representation.   

Police were called to the home Jaqueline Avant shared with husband Clarence on Dec. 1 after a call was made reporting a shooting at 2:23 a.m. She was taken to the hospital but succumbed to her injuries. Later that same night LAPD officers received reports of another shooting in the Hollywood Hills, about seven miles from the Avant’s home. Mayor was taken into custody after being found at the scene, suspected of burglary. According to reports, Manor accidentally shot himself in the foot during the commission of the alleged burglary.  

According to a police briefing last week, the suspect had an AR-15 in his possession at the time of his arrest. They believe the weapon was used in both crimes. Furthermore, they said they had surveillance footage of Maynor’s car placing him in the Beverly Hill area at the time of the shooting.  

“Mrs. Avant was a treasured member of our community. Her generosity and goodwill touched so many lives,” District Attorney George Gascón said. 

The investigation is ongoing.  

ColdHeartedAC x Veeze – “Last Of A Dying Breed”

According to ColdHeartedAC or “AC” as his friends call him, this new track “Last of a Dying Breed” symbolizes everything that is “AC” as this West Coast, Los Angeles based talent proves he’s the “Last of a Dying Breed.”

“I am the Last of a Dying Breed, genuine people on this earth are scarce, mentors like Nipsey Hussle and Hollow da Don that put loyalty over money is a rare thing there’s only a few people left.” Knowing that I train my self to be the best I can be whether I’m running my car-rental, clothes , credit repair, or mobile tinting businesses.”

Getting love across the map, AC noted that Houston especially has been welcoming to him.

“I try to be the best at it while making movies on these beats it’s starting to pay off . The love I get in Houston from J Prince and Johnny Dang to New York from my switch the game up homies Hfrost and lilagz has nothing to do with music”

Virgil Abloh Chicago Memorial Attended By Kanye West, Drake, Rihanna & More

Friends of the late Virgil Abloh came together in his hometown to pay tribute to the noted fashion designer on Monday (Dec. 6).  

The memorial reportedly held at the Museum Of Contemporary Art in Chicago, saw some of the biggest names in music and fashion gather to honor the visionary including Kanye West, Rhianna, and A$AP Rocky.  

Tyler the Creator delivered a moving eulogy, his voice breaking with emotion as he spoke of Abloh’s manner of connecting people “of all colors, ages, backgrounds and religions.” 

He added, “That’s what he did, he brought the illest people together.” The pain was audible as he shared a memory from the day he learned of Abloh’s passing. 

Lauren Hill gave a musical tribute, performing “Everything Is Everything” through tears. 

Rhianna and A$AP Rocky attended the memorial together.  

https://twitter.com/thickannawhore/status/1468065092348620802?s=20

Kanye West stopped to spend time with his fans after the service. He met with a small crowd of people outside and signed autographs. Chicagoan Vic Mensa, who recently released a Virgil Abloh tribute song, “What You Taught Us” was pictured greeting Ye.  

Kim Kardashian was in attendance, sparking rumors of a second reunion with Kanye West. The former couple was seen together with their daughter North West at Virgil Abloh’s final Louis Vuitton show in Miami last week. 

Chicago Activist Englewood Barbie posted pictures and footage from the event featuring Kanye West, Drake, and Kim Kardashian.  

“Only Virgil could have me sitting casually across from @badgalriri or behind @kendalljenner or across from Ye & Kim my mind was blown… I was touched that he reached these people & they pulled up for him…” 

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She also shared a speech from Virgil Abloh’s sister.

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Model Eric Brynne Details Experience Modeling For Nike, Apple, Adidas and Amiri

Recently male model and fashion designer Eric Brynne detailed his plans after an impressive run of shoots with Apple, Nike, Adidas, Amiri, Puma, Amazon and Boss Hugo over the last several years. 

Born in Ghana and raised in Atlanta, model Eric Brynne has had a storybook experience in the modeling industry getting his start on a whim and establishing himself with some of the top brands in the world as a Mavrick Artists Agency Model. 

“My modeling stuff took off even though I didn’t have a passion for it. So when I got into modeling I really didn’t like it. Even though it’s cool, I didn’t really like it because I felt like I was still trying to find myself,” Eric Brynne explained. 

After standing in with a friend for moral support at a modeling audition, Eric Brynne was plucked from obscurity after being noticed by the agency’s scouts. 

The contract offer was good but Eric Brynne was still attending school at Georgia State University. He turned down the offer and told them he had to finish his engineering degree, but they liked Eric so much they agreed to wait until he finished school. 

Recently male model and fashion designer Eric Brynne detailed his plans after an impressive run of shoots with Apple, Nike, Adidas, Amiri, Puma, Amazon and Boss Hugo over the last several years. 

Born in Ghana and raised in Atlanta, model Eric Brynne has had a storybook experience in the modeling industry getting his start on a whim and establishing himself with some of the top brands in the world as a Mavrick Artists Agency Model. 

“My modeling stuff took off even though I didn’t have a passion for it. So when I got into modeling I really didn’t like it. Even though it’s cool, I didn’t really like it because I felt like I was still trying to find myself,” Eric Brynne explained. 

After standing in with a friend for moral support at a modeling audition, Eric Brynne was plucked from obscurity after being noticed by the agency’s scouts. 

The contract offer was good but Eric Brynne was still attending school at Georgia State University. He turned down the offer and told them he had to finish his engineering degree, but they liked Eric so much they agreed to wait until he finished school. 

After finishing school Eric Brynne avoided the 9 to 5 jobs and moved to Los Angeles to establish himself as a model. 

Eric Brynne Has Modeled For Some Of The Biggest Companies In The World Nike, Apple, Adidas, Amiri, Amazon, Puma and More

“In the beginning it wasn’t really great, I kind of had to learn. I learned all the grips of modeling and everywhere you put me I learned fast. My agency is Mavrick Artist Agency in Beverly Hills, they helped me land my first big gig with Adidas in New York,” Eric Brynne said. 

“I realized modeling is pretty much the fashion industry and pretty much I love playing with clothes, like wearing stuff and putting fits together and creating. As a model you are a mannequin and people dress you, but I wanted to dress myself and bring out the creativity. So during quarantine I experimented with that and really learned that I love clothes and I love being creative. “

Eric Brynne’s experiences modeling and working with clothes helped him find another interest in design and creating his own brand, Hellfighter. During the COVID lockdown he experimented with that interest, even applying some of the skills he learned while earning his engineering degree. 

“I started putting fits together and posting it on Instagram and people started following me. Right now that’s on pause for my real estate interest, but that should be back in effect early next year,” Eric Brynne explained. “I feel like the engineering degree helps me in terms of being creative in real life and it gives me courage and confidence in what I want to do. It helps me create and recreate in my life. We are all engineers of our lives as humans and we constantly grow and evolve and it’s not always smooth. But the degree has helped me go harder because I know that I always have something to fall back on.” 

DaBaby Cleared Of Misdemeanor Battery Charge In Las Vegas

DaBaby is no longer facing a misdemeanor battery charge in Las Vegas.

Online court records reveal the battery case against DaBaby was dismissed with prejudice on December 1. That means the charges cannot be refiled, clearing him in the alleged assault of a Las Vegas driver.

According to multiple reports, the Interscope Records artist was ordered to pay $7,500 to the alleged victim to settle the case. Timothy Cobb, the accuser, claimed he was punched by DaBaby while driving the controversial rapper to the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in November 2019.

DaBaby, whose real name is Jonathan Kirk, denied assaulting Cobb. His lawyers David Chesnoff and Richard Schonfeld insisted he was ready to prove his innocence at a potential trial.

“Mr. Kirk denied the allegations and came to court prepared to fight the case at trial,” Chesnoff and Schonfeld said in a statement to Rolling Stone. “In court, the case was dismissed with prejudice.”

DaBaby has been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons for much of 2021, making the battery case dismissal one of his rare moments of good news. His bad press includes a homophobic rant at Rolling Loud and getting into a domestic dispute with his ex-girlfriend DaniLeigh.

Actor/Rapper Kaalan Walker Accused Of Sexually Assaulting Over 30 Victims

Kaalan Walker has been accused of sexually assaulting more than two dozen women.

According to Rolling Stone, over 30 victims have come forward with allegations of rape or sexual abuse against Kaalan Walker. Prosecutors informed a Los Angeles judge about the mounting accusations ahead his serial rape trial on Monday.

Kaalan Walker was arrested in connection to a series of sexual assaults in 2018. A total of 11 alleged victims are cited in the charges against him.

The Superfly actor/rapper has pleaded not guilty to six counts of forcible rape, two counts of unlawful intercourse with a minor and more felonies related to his 11 alleged victims. Walker’s attorney Andrew Flier claims his client’s accusers are all liars.

“Mr. Walker was in consensual and voluntary contact with every one of these women,” Flier told Rolling Stone. “There’s no abduction rape. There’s no forced rape. Purportedly, he is giving them information like, ‘Hey, I could put you in a movie. I could put you in a rap video. I could create a star.’ And that’s what gets them to do things they might not normally want to do.”

He added, “And now that the stardom and glory didn’t come to fruition, they’re lying and saying he assaulted them. We believe that every one of these young ladies is lying.”

Prosecutors wanted to call five more of Kaalan Walker’s accusers as witnesses at his upcoming trial. On Monday, the judge presiding over the case limited them to four.

Kaalan Walker’s trial is scheduled to begin on January 11, 2022. He’s facing a potential life sentence in prison if convicted.

LL Cool J Gets His Own Statue In Queens’ Corona Park

LL Cool J has been honored with a unique sculpture in Queens, New York.

Artist Sherwin Banfield crafted a statue of the legendary rapper to put on display in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The installation features a musical component, implementing actual audio in the piece.

“Anything is possible,” LL Cool J wrote on Instagram. “Statue of me in Corona Park, Queens by the talented @sherwintheartist.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CXJza2QpL3n/

The LL Cool J sculpture is located in David Dinkins Circle within Corona Park. Banfield’s creation will be on view through November 2022.

“A Sculptural Sonic Monument dedicated to the legacy of Queens Hip-Hop legend @llcoolj, his native Queens NY and historical performances at Flushing Meadows Corona Park,” Banfield wrote on Instagram. “This Monument is also known as The G.O.A.T. Monument.”

He continued, “Over the course of this installation parts of the steel structure will naturally rust by the elements of Queens @coronapark, a metaphor for the Queens neighborhoods having a profound impact on Cool J. Also, different audio playlists by friends and fans of LL will be activated.”

The sculpted tribute to LL Cool J gives him another reason to celebrate during the final months of 2021. In October, the Hip Hop pioneer was finally inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. His induction ended years of snubs after being nominated several times over the past decade.

Shay McCray On-Air Host at iHeart Radio’s, FUBU Radio

Shay McCray lives by the belief that we predict our own life. She took the bull by the horns and plunged into the entertainment world taking it one step at a time. This Brooklyn native who relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, which has become the Hollywood of the South, has made a lane for herself in an industry where some dare to dream. She put in the work and landed two of the most sought after gigs in radio. She became the On-Air Personality of the iHeart Radio show, “The Takeover” on FUBU Radio Monday through Friday from 4pm to 6pm (EST).

Publicist Lynn Hobson states, “Shay McCray is killing it on radio. However, she had featured roles on BET’S#### series, ‘Being Mary Jane’ and the highly acclaimed ‘Green Leaf’ on OWN Television starring Lynn Whitfield and Keith David. She also played the daughter of Maxine Jones (former member of EnVogue) in the movie ‘The Hills’ just to name a few. Although she gained popularity working as a Red-Carpet host early in her career, she has taken her position in front of the cameras on the same red carpet. The tables have turned. Now the host wants to know what she is wearing.”

Juice WRLD Day Slated For December 9th In Chicago

The late rapper Juice WRLD will be honored during a global tribute produced by his mother’s non-profit, the Live Free 999 Foundation.

The event will be called Juice WRLD Day 2021 and filmed in his hometown of Chicago at the United Center Arena.

This year will launch this inaugural experience to recognize his contributions to Hip-Hop culture during his short-lived life.

This news comes a few days after his new song “Wandered to LA,” featuring Justin Bieber dropped.

Justin retweeted the promo over the weekend.

Juice Wrld’s Mom Launches Funds For People With Mental Health Issues

Juice WRLD Day 2021 will include a few surprise appearances and performances by some of the Billboard-charting artist’s closest friends.

People who get to the Windy City to see the event live will get a chance to cop souvenirs in the form of exclusive merch collabs. Those who cannot show up can purchase through the Amazon Music app and the Amazon Music Artist Merch Shop at Amazon.com/JuiceWRLD.

https://twitter.com/MyWrld_999/status/1466074681493139457?s=20

On December 8th, 2019, Juice WRLD died of an overdose after allegedly swallowing Percocet pills after police searched his private plane.

Later, police said they retrieved 70 lbs. of cannabis on the aircraft. In his lifetime, he dropped two albums: Goodbye & Good Riddance (2018) and Death Race for Love (2019).

His estate released his third album Legends Never Die posthumously in 2020.

As mentioned in the above tweet, he has an upcoming album, Fighting Demons, which will be released on December 10th. He also has an upcoming Juice WRLD documentary titled “Into the Abyss,” dropping on HBO before this year’s end.

His camp is keeping his memory alive with a whole month of activations.

Juice WRLD Day 2021 will be live-streamed on the Amazon Music app and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch at 8 p.m. CT/9 p.m. ET on Thursday, December 9th.

Travis Scott Finally Replies To Astroworld Lawsuit Denying Responsibility

Travis Scott is now taking a different approach to the overwhelming lawsuits coming his way after the Astroworld tragedy.

The Houston rapper is now saying through his attorneys that he does not believe he is liable for all of the trauma and has filed the first counter to one of the many cases.

According to TMZ, Jessie Garcia has filed a civil lawsuit against Scott, Jack Enterprises (his company), and the Cactus Jack Foundation.

He claims that he was in the concert crowd during the unexpected surge that took the lives of ten people and injured over 300 more.

The news outlet says that Scott is issuing a “general denial” to this case and many others.

According to the Legal Dictionary, it is “a statement in an answer to a lawsuit or claim by a defendant in a lawsuit, in which the defendant denies everything alleged in the complaint without specifically denying any allegation.”

His team is building a strategy to alleviate some of the massive potential financial losses coming his way through all of these lawsuits.

Last week, his team filed a motion to combine the 275 filings into “multi-district litigation.”

According to Heygood, Orr & Pearson, in the state of Texas, multi-district litigation is “a special legal procedure designed to speed the process of handling complex cases such as a single airplane crash or other disaster involving numerous claims or a large number of similar product liability suits.”

The law firm further states, “a Texas MDL must “state the common question or questions of fact involved in the cases”; provide “a clear and concise explanation of the reasons that transfer would be for the convenience of the parties and witnesses and would promote the just and efficient conduct of the cases” and “state whether all parties in those cases for which transfer is sought agree to the motion.”

No update on if the courts will honor his requests.

Jake Paul Talks Big Smack To Tyron Woodley And Offers $500K Extra For Knockout

Tommy Fury backed out of his boxing match Jake Paul in a sudden shake-up.

Now, after mixing it up in August, the YouTuber-turned-professional fighter will meet Tyron Woodley II in a highly anticipated rematch bout.

According to a press release, Jake Paul and Woodley are going to connect in the ring on Saturday, December 18th in a one-on-one called “Leave No Doubt.”

Paul, who can boast that he has never been defeated in his professional boxing career, says he does not care whom he fights.

He said, “When my team woke me up on Friday to tell me Tommy was pulling out, I told them I’m ready to fight anyone on December 18th. Troy, Trey, Trevor, Travis. I don’t give a damn who it is.”

“So, as I predicted Tommy Fumbles,” he jabbed. “And Tyron is there to pick it up, stepping in, and contractually he is getting an extra $500,000 if he knocks me out. First time I outboxed him. This time I’m gonna punish him and leave no doubt.”

He then took to his Twitter to talk trash.

“Tommy Fury has pulled out of the fight due to a ‘medical condition’ and Tyron Woodley is stepping in for December 18th for the official rematch.”

Wondering why he is talking all that boss talk? That is because Jake Paul owns Most Valuable Promotions, one of the producers of the event.

Woodley, not to be outtalked, said, “I didn’t expect him to eat my punches like that. But the fact that one judge only gave me two rounds is insane. Forget that Tommy Fury fight. Let’s run that back.”

“The ropes held him up when I hit him,” Woodley confessed. “I could have had that knockdown. I landed power punches and he missed shots all night.”

The two first met each other on August 29th in Cleveland, Oh.

The battle was a tough fought contest, with the judges scoring the fight 77-75 for Paul, 77-75 for Woodley, and 78-74 for Paul.

This is a co-main event.

The other draw will be the seven-division world champion and current unified featherweight champion Amanda Serrano. She will face 135-pound titleholder Miriam Gutiérrez.

Other fights on the card are three-time NBA All-Star and two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Deron Williams, who will go against San Francisco 49ers running back, and No. 3 all-time leading rusher Frank Gore in a four-round heavyweight clash.

The telecast opener will feature undefeated IBF, and WBO top-3 ranked junior welterweight contender Liam Paro, and the unbeaten top-10 ranked 140-pound Puerto Rican prospect Yomar Alamo. They will go for a 10-round contest.

“Leave No Doubt” will air live on SHOWTIME PPV live from Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida., on Saturday, December 18th (9p ET/6p PT).

Dave Chappelle To Headline Netflix Comedy Festival Despite Controversy

Netflix isn’t backing away from Dave Chappelle.

The streaming giant has announced Dave Chappelle as one of its headliners for Netflix Is A Joke: The Festival. The 11-day comedy event will run in Los Angeles from April 28 to May 8, 2022.

“It’s absolutely thrilling for Netflix to be hosting a comedy festival of this magnitude in Los Angeles, ” Netflix’s director of stand-up comedy Robbie Praw said in a press release. “We were so disappointed to postpone the event last spring and our line-up of comedians can’t wait to bring much-needed laughs to audiences in LA and around the world on Netflix. Netflix Is A Joke Festival is going to give comedy fans the opportunity to see the greats and discover new voices in one of the greatest cities in the world.”

Dave Chappelle has been booked for the festival despite generating controversy for the streaming service. The award-winning comedian faced backlash for making transphobic jokes in his stand-up special The Closer, which was released by Netflix in October.

Amid criticism, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos defended Dave Chappelle. He later said he “screwed up the internal communication” when transgender employees and allies organized a walkout in protest of the special.

Netflix’s festival will take place across more than 25 venues, including Dodger Stadium and the Hollywood Bowl. The star-studded lineup features Amy Poehler, Chris Rock, Conan O’Brien, Dave Chappelle, David Letterman, Jerry Seinfeld, Kevin Hart, Tina Fey, Wanda Sykes and many more.

Tickets for Netflix Is A Joke: The Festival go on sale on December 10. View the complete event schedule here.

Gorilla Stone Crack Dealer/Gun Runner Sends Letter To Judge Asking For Mercy

An associate of rapper Casanova, one of the 18 Untouchable Gorilla Stone Nation members charged in a RICO indictment, is pleading with a judge for mercy.

Jordan “Flow” Ingram was indicted with Casanova and other members of Gorilla Stone in a sweeping indictment in December of 2020.

Ingram is accused of distributing large amounts of crack cocaine around Peekskill, New York, along with the gang’s alleged Godmother, Naya “Baby” Austin.

He is also charged with the violent robbery of a rival gang member in Peekskill in June 2020, along with another Gorilla Stone member named Dezon “Blakk” Washington.

The Feds also claimed Ingram was one of the main suppliers of guns for the Untouchable Gorilla Stone Nation.

In July of 2021, Ingram decided to accept a plea deal in hopes of avoiding a mandatory sentence of at least two decades.

He recently wrote a letter to Judge Philip Halpern asking for leniency and apologizing for the error of his ways, for associating with the Untouchable Gorilla Stone Nation.

“I only want to say that I am standing now as a young adult who is taking full responsibilities for my own actions. Most of the charges I have been given does not fully pertain to myself. I do admit that I have done wrong and apologize for any damage I may have helped cause with the people I had previously associated with,” Ingram told Judge Halpern. 

“I honestly want the court to take into consideration that I had a few bumps with the penal system but nothing of this measure. I am still finding my place in society. One thing I am certain of is that this is not where I see myself. People I looked up to in the past has been leading me astray and this process has opened my eyes to the dangers I may have [caused] if my life was to continue down the path it was leading.”

Ingram did not mention anyone by name. 

Nevertheless, Ingram said he was blinded by peer pressure and a need to fit in as he asked Judge Halpern for mercy since he was facing a mandatory minimum of 22 years in prison before accepting a plea deal.

“I believe that most of the time I was doing it to be in good grace of my friends/associates. I say associates because I realized that we may all been used [for] someone else’s gain. The love I thought I had with the people I was around may or may not have been genuine. But I realized that it’s not worth the cost.”

So far, Ingram and at least five other members of The Untouchable Gorilla Stone Nation have accepted plea deals rather than facing hefty prison sentences.

As AllHipHop reported, rap star Casanova has pleaded not guilty to several serious charges, including possession of controlled substances, possession of weapons, and attempted murder in Florida.

Drake Withdraws His Grammy Nominations But Why?

Drake.

Drake has done something unprecedented. In the past we have seen rappers and others even boycott the Grammys. However, we have not seen an artist, to my knowledge, with a draw their Grammy nominations. That is exactly what Drake did today. The rapper with Drew three Grammy nominations for his latest album, certified lover boy, today.

But the big question is, why?

Last year, they cut his mic off when he was talking. Bet that won’t happen again.

A Recording Academy representative confirmed this news to Variety magazine. They have not determined why the megastar would do such a thing when his new album is nominated for Best Rap Album. The crazy thing is, they are not going to offer the now absent nomination slot to anyone else. That Lloyd Banks album needs a look! There were only be for nominees for the spaces that Drake is no longer involved in.

In the past, Drake has had a lot to say about the Grammys and said that people of the culture need to create something new. He also said that his fellow Canadian the Weeknd should have been nominated for some of those Grammys this year. 

Oh well!

I think it’s a good look in a rebellious sense of the word. I think that Drake is making a very bold statement and I also think that the Grammys have made extensive efforts to be more inclusive. They have included a large number of new recording Academy members to ensure that there is more diversity in the voting process. So there’s that! There have been numerous scandals and the CEO of The Recording Academy Harvey Mason Jr. is working really hard to clean up the past and bring them up to speed.

I guess we will just have to wait and see what the next development is. But Drake has said what he has said and that’s that.