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Tabitha Brown Opens Vegan Soul Food Restaurant, #DariusCrooks Reportedly Screaming Into A Pillow Somewhere

By: Bernadette Giacomazzo Updated Category: Rumors
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We love to see Black women winning, and we love to see Tabitha Brown winning, especially.

Recently, Brown dropped her new book, Feeding the Soul (Because It’s My Business): Finding Our Way to Joy, Love, and Freedom. And fans couldn’t get enough of it. And why wouldn’t they love it, really? Who doesn’t enjoy some down-home cooking delivered with a side of Jesus and prayers?

Darius Williams, that’s who. The Cliffs notes version of the saga surrounding the man known as #DariusCrooks in independent cooking circles is as follows: Williams is a scammer who is currently (according to The Daily Beast) looking down the barrel of several lawsuits, mostly tied to illegal credit repair, failure to treat his employees properly, and violating the Georgia Fair Business Practices Act.

And for making food that looks like this — which isn’t a crime, but should be.

Despite making food that looks like puke and bad decisions, and would be considered an act of war under the Geneva convention, Williams frequently targets other Black women chefs — including Angela “The Kitchenista” Davis, Sunny Anderson, and now Tabitha Brown — by throwing shade, claiming that they’re “haters,” and basically acting like a jealous little child whenever one or more of these women gets some much-deserved shine.

This brings us to this latest bit of Tabitha Brown news. According to Essence, Brown has opened up her own vegan soul food restaurant called Kale My Name. The restaurant is actually a franchise from the existing restaurant in Chicago, IL. “After becoming a huge fan of the delicious dishes, she teamed up with Kale My Name’s owner, Nemanja Nekac Golubović, and they’re expanding the restaurant by bringing it to her hometown of Los Angeles. They’ve found a location in Encino and are getting the ball rolling on scheduling an opening day,” writes Essence.

Can we take a minute to appreciate the joy on Tabitha Brown’s Instagram? Okay. Good.

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A post shared by Tabitha Brown (@iamtabithabrown)

Now, let’s remember that Darius Williams admitted to unfollowing Tabitha Brown because he was “low-key” (try high-key, Darius) jealous of her success. With this bit of news, you know he’s probably somewhere screaming into a pillow as Anita Baker’s “Sweet Love” plays in the background. You’d better go find Marcel, Darius, and figure out how to make it right with him — because things ain’t looking too good for you right now, sir.

And The Kitchenista is somewhere chuckling with delight. We have no choice but to stan.

Congratulations, Ms. Tabitha Brown! Savor every minute of your sweet success!

Here He Goes Again: Donald Trump Says He’s Launching A New Social Media Platform, Swears It’s Really Gonna Be A Success This Time, TRUST ME!

By: Bernadette Giacomazzo Updated Category: Rumors
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Donald Trump is like that uncle who tries every type of hustle — from fish-fry plates to backyard mechanics — and can barely clear $500 a week no matter what he does. You want to root for him — that “give it all you’ve got” attitude is, really, an all-American trait — but the problem is, you know it’s all an act.

You know it’s all an act because in reality, he’s a spoiled rich boy who never had to work a day in his life — who blew through millions of dollars of his father’s money — who was solely tasked with not being a f*ckup and couldn’t succeed at doing that, either. At the end of the day, Donald Trump could only do one thing right: be a game show host. (Let’s be real: The Apprentice was a good show.) Everything else — from the “modeling agency” that was a front for Jeffrey Epstein’s perversions, to the presidency, to Trump Steaks & Trump University — has been one dub after another.

That’s what makes this man’s latest announcement about his new social media platform — called TRUTH Social — so hilarious and pathetic. You know this is going to fall flat, just like all his other sh*t he’s ever done. You just wonder when the hell Donald Trump is finally going to S### about losing the 2020 presidential election and just accept his defeat like a big boy. At this point, not accepting his defeat makes him sound like an even bigger b*tch than he really is. (And he’s a big one. Really, he is.)

Anyway, take a look at the announcement about his new TRUTH Social Media Network, and try not to laugh at the petulance. (Or continue to act like he’s the aggrieved party in all this. I really don’t care.) Really — there’s not much more to say about this mess than the two tweets below. It’s not worth much more.

Masika Kalysha ‘Accidentally’ Posts Pic of Saint West at Her Daughter’s School

By: Bernadette Giacomazzo Updated Category: Rumors
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You can count on Masika Kalysha to do two things: be messy, and stay in the headlines for being messy.

Fetty Wap’s baby mama decided to throw herself into some more mess on Instagram today when she posted what was, allegedly, a picture of her daughter at school.

There’s just one problem: she had to make sure that Saint West — Kim Kardashian’s child with Kanye West — was in the picture as well. And while she stopped short of tagging Kim in the post (probably because Masika Kalysha knows better, and she knows that Kim will make her take down the pic), she made sure that everyone knew her child was front-and-center with the Kardashian-West offspring.

Peep the pic below.

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A post shared by Khari Barbie Maxwell (@kharibarbie)

Fans of Love & Hip Hop will recall that Masika Kalysha was so difficult on the set — including constantly storming off and threatening legal action — that she actually nearly got fired. (Word on the Internet streets is, she was told to either leave or get fired.)

Then, in September 2020, the clout-chasing baby mama faked her own kidnapping to get more people to subscribe to her OnlyFans. When TMZ broke the story, she got fired from the TV show she was working on, and got publicly rebuked by the sex crimes organization she claimed to be working with.

I don’t know about you…but all this sounds like she needs mental help to me.

Obasi Jackson Is More Than Pop Smoke’s Brother

By: Chuck Creekmur (@ChuckCreekmur) Updated Category: Features
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Obasi Jackson is doing the best he can. As he walks into WonWorld Studios, he’s handling the business of Pop Smoke, his late brother. The estate presses on and Obasi Jackson continues to move forward as well. As painful as that may be, he has no choice. However, the Brooklyn native’s prescence in the Manhattan studio represents another step forward to his destiny.

His new album, Memories, is like white water rafting over a sea of emotions. The opus continues to gain attention as a body of work that delves deep into Obasi’s mind and mental state presently. Refreshing and, at times, distressing, Memories is a stark reminder that Pop Smoke’s older brother was an artist before the tragic murder of his sibling. The manevers effortlessly through a plethora of genres, motifs and styles. And yet, the questions linger.

Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur and Obasi Jackson talk about everything from mental health, to death to managing life. Tap in.

Joell Ortiz Announces ‘Autograph’ Album Featuring KXNG Crooked, Sheek Louch & More

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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Joell Ortiz, ¼ of the rap supergroup Slaughterhouse, is returning with a new body of work. His next solo effort, Autograph, is being described as the New Yorker’s most personal album to date.

Autograph will arrive on November 12. Sheek Louch, CyHi The Prynce, KXNG Crooked, Salaam Remi, Apollo Brown, The Heatmakerz, and Namir Blade contributed to the project.

“My creative process is pretty simple. I write to the music that moves me and speak my truth. That’s never wavered.  Once I feel like I got all of my thoughts out, I put the pen down and listen to everything in its entirety,” explains Joell Ortiz. “That’s usually where I figure out things like title and artwork.”

He continues, “After listening to this body of work, I realized that I shared a lot of personal feelings, stories, and ideas. Everything is authentic. This is signature me. Hence, the title. Autograph is an album from me to you. The old me, the current me, all of me. As usual, I hope you enjoy.”

Joell Ortiz Drops “OG” Single

The Autograph era begins with an official first single titled “OG.” The LP’s tracklist contains other cuts such as “Housing Authority” featuring fellow Slaughterhouse alum KXNG Crooked and “Love Is Love” featuring The Lox emcee Sheek Louch.

“I feel so lucky to be able to call myself an ‘OG.’ Where I come from adulthood isn’t always a guarantee. But here I am, alive, and well and still doing what I love to do. Music. As life changes, so does my story. Just happy to still be able to share it with you all the best way I know how. Over these beats! Yaowa,” says Joell Ortiz.

Previously, Joell Ortiz dropped the solo albums 2007’s The Brick: Bodega Chronicles, 2011’s Free Agent, 2014’s House Slippers, 2016’s That’s Hip Hop, and 2019’s Monday. The 41-year-old spitter also created full-length projects with Slaughterhouse, Illmind, Apollo Brown, Fred the Godson & The Heatmakerz, and KXNG Crooked.

Boosie Badazz Reacts To Reports Yung Bleu Is No Longer Signed To Bad Azz Music

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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Boosie Badazz dealt with multiple issues over the last few months. Some members of the LGBTQ community accused Boosie of promoting homophobia against Lil Nas X. Then Boosie got arrested for allegedly inciting a riot in Atlanta.

Now, Boosie Badazz also has to address reports that “You’re Mines Still” hitmaker Yung Bleu parted ways with Bad Azz Music Syndicate. Yung Bleu spoke about his personal and business relationships with Boosie during an interview with The Breakfast Club.

Boosie Badazz apparently gave Yung Bleu the opportunity to sign with another company. However, the Alabama representative seemingly still decided to honor his agreement with Boosie even if he is no longer officially under the Bad Azz umbrella.

Yung Bleu said, “We’re still in business together. Me and Him – we’re really boys. We’re really like family so it’s more than the contract. Whatever I said I’m gonna do, I’m gonna still do.”

Boosie was asked about the situation while speaking with VladTV. At first, the 38-year-old rapper/entrepreneur did not want to talk about Yung Bleu’s association with Bad Azz Music Syndicate before sharing some of his thoughts on the matter.

“That ain’t accurate. I don’t really wanna get into details on it, but we gonna make it work,” stated Boosie Badazz. “I don’t blame Bleu for this s###. I feel like some other people who are bigger than Bleu made mistakes. It ain’t no big deal. We gotta sit down and I gotta get compensated.”

Yung Bleu released his Moon Boy album in July via Vandross Music Group/EMPIRE. 2020’s Bleu Vandross 3 and Love Scars: The 5 Stages of Emotions both came out on EMPIRE as well.

R. Kelly Reportedly Placed On Suicide Watch Following Sex Trafficking Conviction

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: Exclusives
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Robert “R” Kelly’s legal woes are far from over. After being convicted of racketeering-related federal crimes in New York, the Grammy-winning musician must face another federal jury for child pornography charges in Chicago.

According to the Chicago Tribune, the sex trafficking conviction in New York led to U.S. Bureau of Prisons officials placing R. Kelly on suicide watch. Kelly’s attorney, Steve Greenberg, confirmed the monitoring process has since been lifted.

In addition, Steve Greenberg insisted he had no knowledge of R. Kelly threatening to harm himself while being incarcerated. The decision to oversee Kelly for potential fatal self-injuries could have been a routine act by the prison.

Prosecutors named R. Kelly the head of a criminal organization. A Brooklyn jury found him guilty of racketeering predicated on criminal conduct including sexual exploitation of children, forced labor, and Mann Act violations involving the coercion and transportation of women and girls in interstate commerce to engage in illegal sexual activity. 

“A predator who used his inner circle to ensnare underage teenage girls, and young women and men, for decades, in a sordid web of sex abuse, exploitation, and degradation. To the victims in this case, your voices were heard, and justice was finally served,” stated Jacquelyn M. Kasulis, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York.

R. Kelly Still Has To Stand Trial For Child Pornography

In 2019, law enforcement arrested R. Kelly on federal child pornography and obstruction charges. That Illinois-based federal indictment accused Kelly of engaging in sex acts with five minors and recording some of the abuse.

“This indictment demonstrates our office’s commitment to holding individuals such as Kelly accountable for criminal sexual abuse of minors, protecting the victims of such crimes, and punishing those who obstruct law enforcement investigations,” said John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois.

Producing child pornography carries a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years. Conspiracy to obstruct justice is punishable by up to five years in prison.

R. Kelly pled not guilty in the federal child pornography/obstruction of justice case. The self-described “Pied Piper of R&B” was acquitted in a 2008 state child pornography trial in Illinois after the alleged victim declined to testify for the prosecution.

The racketeering and sex trafficking guilty verdicts in New York come with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and up to life imprisonment. R. Kelly is scheduled to be sentenced in May 2022. His legal team is expected to appeal the convictions.

Dallas Austin Hosts Special Atlanta Event Celebrating Lil Nas X

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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Atlanta native Lil Nas X currently has the #1 song in America. “Industry Baby” featuring Jack Harlow climbed to the top of Billboard’s Hot 100 chart this week.

The 22-year-old rapper had another reason to celebrate on Wednesday. Grammy-winning producer Dallas Austin and the Gilead COMPASS Initiative hosted a private event in Atlanta for Lil Nas X.

“Through the Gilead COMPASS Initiative, we provide funding to support local community organizations working to end the HIV epidemic in the Southern United States,” says Dr. Shanell L. McGoy, Director, Public Affairs of Gilead Sciences, Inc. “Collaboration with partners to raise awareness about HIV and dismantle stigma is an essential part of the initiative. Lil Nas X is a fierce advocate and we are grateful that he continues to use his platform to raise awareness and change the public perception of HIV.”

Chlöe Bailey & Lil Nas X

McGoy adds, “Empowering new leaders to reach members of their communities was one of the main reasons we started the Gilead COMPASS Initiative® three years ago. Thrive SS and other partners throughout the U.S. South are making real progress dismantling HIV stigma in their communities.”

In addition, Mardrequs Harris of The Southern AIDS Coalition organized a choir performance of songs from Lil Nas X’s Montero album at the party. The entire choir was made up of LGBTQ community members, allies, and faith leaders. Each choir singer wore purple in honor of GLAAD’s #SpiritDay on October 21.

Kandi Burruss & Lil Nas X

“I would want to make sure they know that Lil Nas X is a part of the movement in the Atlanta music scene,” says Dallas Austin. “The scene is ever-growing and progressing with a community of creative people that push the envelope and that’s what we’re doing.”

Atlanta Councilman Antonio Brown was at The Gathering Spot event to proclaim October 20 as “Lil Nas X Day” in the city. LNX also stopped by Ponce De Leon Center to meet with youth and families affected by HIV and to learn about the advancements being made to treat and cure the virus. 

Lil Nas X will appear at the State Farm Arena for the opening night game for the Atlanta Hawks on October 21. The former Lithia Springs High School student is taking over billboards across Atlanta as well.

Robert Stafford (Lil Nas X’s Father) & Lil Nas X
photos via Columbia Records

Chuck D To Release Book Of His Artwork

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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Hip Hop legend Carlton Douglas “Chuck D” Ridenhour is best known as the lead rapper of the iconic Public Enemy. Chuck D is also a visual artist.

Genesis Publications announced the first official book of Chuck D’s artwork. The New York native created images of his musical inspirations such as Nina Simone, Bob Dylan, and the Beastie Boys.

Chuck D also offers readers his thought process as well as anecdotes about his one-of-a-kind pieces of art. He also provides social commentary with political cartoons.

“In a digital era where people are listening with their eyes, I think we’re seeing the elements of sight, sound, story, and style finally coming together in a way that I’ve been about my entire life,” says Chuck D. “I was raised with an artist’s mentality; my first 25 years were spent as somebody who wanted to live among graphics and artwork and illustration, and then for the next 30 years it was all music.”

The 61-year-old lyricist continues, “In the last six years, I’ve reverted back into the arts, combining all of these elements in my work, still trying to change the world. This is truly what I want to do. My deepest thanks to Genesis for giving me a place to be able to display all of this through my artwork.”

Akademiks on Rory & Mal’s Deal: “If They Got $10M, I Got 30”

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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During a recent appearance on Adam 22’s “No Jumper” podcast, the controversial media personality was asked his thoughts on Rory and Mal’s new deal with Stitcher. Particularly as Akademiks has not held back with his critique of the pair in the past. “Even though you was talking s### about Rory and Mal, do you think they trying to s### on you right now?”  

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A post shared by New Rory & MAL (@newrorynmal)

Not answering the question directly, Ak responded, “We just did ‘Off the Record Podcast’ on Spotify – exclusive with Van Lathan,” he said, referring to his podcast.   

“I’m a student of the game.” Akademiks continued, still ignoring the question. “When I comment on anybody…there’s nothing that I need to comment on, it’s obvious. But I still entertain it because it’s a passion in me.”

Finally addressing the issue at hand, he asked, “Do you think anything the two stooges could do in business anywhere could s### on anything I’ve got going on?” He continued, “If you legitimately look at it on a fair even-keeled level? 

Adam 22 said although he had no idea how much Rory and Mal are making, the comparison with Ak is unfair because he’s been grinding a lot longer. However, he conceded, “What they have accomplished on their own independent of Joe in like the last six months is pretty f###### unreal. Are they on your level? I would say no.” 

When asked if he believes the duo got the rumored $10 million for their deal he said, “If they got $10 million, I got 30,” he said.  

Ak then revealed the players who are really paying out in the podcast game right now. He said Spotify is the most committed and claimed to have walked away from a bigger deal to sign with them.

Watch Akademiks on “No Jumper” below.

Alicia Keys Was Unaware Lil Mama Crashed The Stage At 2009 VMAs

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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When Lil Mama crashed the stage at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards the viewing audience cringed in unison. It turns out that Alicia Keys doesn’t quite see it the same way. In fact, at the time, she didn’t even see Lil Mama on stage at all! 

It is one of the most memorable moments in the annals of Hip-Hop history. Jay-Z and Alicia Keys were performing their classic New York anthem, “Empire State of Mind,” at the awards ceremony. They were killing their set until, out of nowhere, Lil Mama danced her way onto the stage head nodding vigorously at Jay-Z. Hov looked shocked but ever the professional kept to “the show must go on” rules, while attempting to ignore the stage invasion. Undeterred, Lil Mama remained on stage even cozying up to the pair for their final pose.  

The aftermath was savage for Lil Mama who has spoken publicly about the incident several times. She attempted to reach out to Jay-Z and Alicia Keys to apologize but neither of them has responded.   

Lil Mama Speaks

“I entered the industry as a teenage Black girl from Brooklyn & Harlem NY. These situations are with mature adults at least 10 years my senior. I reached out in private to create an opportunity for communication and clarity.” She added, “Continuously misrepresenting my brand in public won’t be tolerated.” 

Jay-Z’s Response

Jay-Z addressed it shortly after it happened on Angie Martinez’s Hot 97 radio show back in 2009. “To interrupt that moment for us, I don’t think that was the right thing to do. It was a lot of planning that went into that performance. To disrupt that was outta line.” He went on to say though it angered him, there wasn’t much he could do about it. “What I’mma do, fight Lil Mama?” He rhetorically asked.   

Alicia Keys Says She Didn’t Even See Her!

On a recent appearance on “The Morning Hustle” Alicia Keys was asked if she forgave Lil Mama.  

“Of course, of course. Listen, to this day, I truly never knew she was even on the stage,” she admitted. “That’s the craziest part of the whole thing for me. I was on that stage, Jay was in the middle, she was on the other side of Jay, and I never saw her. Never. So, that was wild to me.”  

“But I absolutely…it’s not even a statement. That was then,” she continued. “You know, she’s from New York, too. You know, I think she really felt the energy of the record and she loved it and she couldn’t hold herself back. Look, this is what my music does to people. What can we say?”  

Watch the clip below.   

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A post shared by The Neighborhood Talk (@theneighborhoodtalk)

50 Cent Warns HBO & Showtime “They Be Sleeping On Me”

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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50 Cent’s real-life-inspired series’ “BMF” looks set to continue the media mogul’s remarkably successful run in television. Together with the show “Power” which aired for 6 seasons and the new series, “Power Book III: Raising Kanan,” plus many other “Power” spin-offs, Fiddy is proof that you can be successful outside of the standard Hollywood format.  

Starz admittedly owes a lot of its success to 50 Cent and his productions. CEO of the parent company of Starz, Jon Feltheimer acknowledged that “Raising Kanan” helped bring nearly 1M subscribers to the network within its first week. Power’s showrunner Courtney A. Kemp told Variety, “There’s no version of Power working without our partnership. He has always been a great producer.”  

However, 50 Cent does not believe he’s receiving the credit he deserves. He took to Instagram to share a post by journalist Danny Gold:  

“Maybe an interesting article to write would be how @50 Cent has single handedly brought Starz a bunch of successful shows that regularly outperform big HBO and Showtime shows.” He continued, referring to two of the characters from HBO’s “Succession,” “Tho tbh I would also read yet another article about Tom and Gregg’s chemistry.” 

50 responded: “See they be sleeping on me, but we know what time it is @dgold101 Green Light Gang.” 

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

50 Cent Knows His Power!

Last month, in an interview with CNN, 50 Cent said that he’s known for a long time that networks are lacking the type of content he offers with shows like “Power” and “BMF.” He said that his show’s diversity is what gives him the edge.  

“When they start to say diversity, when you see these projects hit the bullseye and its targeted audience is watching… like when Power went number one with African Americans and Latinos and the universe continues that success, it says you don’t have to have that cookie-cutter mentality that Hollywood has had,” he told CNN. “It’s exciting because things are shifting and changing,” he added. “By the time they see what I did here with BMF, [Hollywood] will be impressed. I’ve got the cheat code.” 

Season 2 of “Power Book II: Ghost” premieres on Sunday, November 21 at 8 pm ET. Watch the trailer below.

October 20 Officially “Lil Nas X Day” In Atlanta

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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Lil Nas X is having an incredible year, that much is indisputable. While he may have his critics, he just keeps racking up wins nonetheless. And do you know what else he has? His own special day after his hometown of Atlanta dedicated a day in his honor.  

Atlanta City Council has officially declared October 20 as “Lil Nas X Day.” A special dinner and ceremony were held last night at The Gathering Spot to commemorate the event. The “Industry Baby” rapper was surprised with a proclamation, presented by councilman and mayoral candidate Antonio Brown. The city councilman is Atlanta’s first Black LQBTQ council member and if elected, will be the first LGBTQ mayor. In his speech, Brown thanked Lil Nas and told him: “You inspire me and allow be to believe I can do it.” 

Take a look at the proclamation Lil Nas X received. 

Picking Up A No.1 Hit Song With Jack Harlowe 

On Tuesday the rapper took to Twitter to share how he broke the news to Jack Harlowe that their single, “Industry Baby” had hit the No. 1 spot. “facetimed jack harlow yesterday morning to tell him industry baby went number 1,” He said before revealing “he cried, then i crew as well, we both crode.” 

Lil Nas X Celebrating With Jack Harlowe On The Streets Of Hollywood 

https://twitter.com/LilNasX/status/1450521986375962625?s=20

His day just got better and better with the announcement that he nabbed six MTV EMA nominations. Only Justin Bieber scored more, receiving a total of eight while Doja Cat also received 6 nominations.  

Lil Nas X MTV EMA Nominations  

He topped off his eventful few days by celebrating the success of his album with the lovely Chloe Bailey. 

https://twitter.com/TheChloeWorld/status/1451024559965151234?s=20

Watch The Video For “Industry Baby” Below 

Jack Harlow Invests In The Plug Drink To Bolster Its $1.5 Million Funding

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News
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Jack Harlow has invested in The Plug Drink.

Ray and Justin Kim’s recovery beverage company secured $1.5 million in funding with the help of investors such as Jack Harlow. Other notable backers of the plant-based drink include Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner and Cleveland Browns cornerback Troy Hill.

“The Plug is a true disruptor in the functional recovery beverage space,” Jack Harlow’s manager Chris Thomas said in a press release. “After getting to know the founders, Ray and Justin, we’ve become strong believers in what they’re building, and it’s one of the main reasons why Jack and I decided to invest in this seed round.”

He added, “The Plug is the first to capture both the hydration and the herbal supplement markets. Very impressive to see how quickly they’ve grown in just a year, and can’t wait to see The Plug skyrocket next year!”

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A post shared by The Plug Drink (@theplugdrink)

To celebrate Jack Harlow’s investment, The Plug Drink is offering $10 dollars off any packs sold on its online store. Customers can use the code HARLOW10 at checkout until the deal expires on November 31.

“We are thrilled to have Jack Harlow as our latest investor,” Ray and Justin Kim said. “His professional career, work ethic, and vision truly resonate with our spirit and mission at The Plug. This is an exciting time to be in the functional beverage space as there’s been a lack of truly plant-based recovery products with delicious taste and efficacy. We’re confident The Plug will play a key role in driving the overall health and wellness trend in the broader consumer market.”

Jack Harlow’s latest business move comes on the heels of him scoring his first No. 1 hit. “Industry Baby,” his collaborative single with Lil Nas X, reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 on the chart dated October 23, 2021.

Ray J Seeking Joint Custody Of Kids With Princess Love As Divorce War Heats Up

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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Ray J is seeking joint physical and legal custody of his children in his divorce from Princess Love.

The singer and TV personality filed for divorce from his wife for the third time while in hospital earlier this month as he battled pneumonia.

According to the divorce petition, Ray is requesting that he and Princess share custody of their two children, three-year-old Melody and 21-month-old Epik.

The documents, obtained by TMZ, also see Ray list irreconcilable differences as the reason for their split, while he denied the court the ability to award either he or Princess spousal support – presumably due to the fact that the former couple signed a prenuptial agreement before they wed.

Ray J is back home after battling pneumonia in a Miami, Florida hospital. The singer and TV personality was discharged and is continuing his recovery at home.

He has also stopped using an inhaler and isn’t on oxygen anymore.

Ray J was admitted to the hospital earlier this month and was so ill doctors initially assumed he had contracted COVID-19.

He tested negative for the virus and was eventually moved out of the hospital’s COVID wing. While he was in the hospital last week, Ray filed to divorce his wife Princess Love for the third time.

Transgender Employees Faceoff Against Anti-Transgender Protesters At Netflix Over Dave Chappelle Special

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: Uncategorized
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Members of Netflix’s employee resource group Trans* staged a walkout in protest of Dave Chappelle’s special The Closer on Wednesday.

Transgender employees and allies left Netflix’s Hollywood office in response to the streaming service’s handling of the Dave Chappelle controversy. Staff working remotely engaged in a “virtual walkout” as well.

Hundreds gathered at a solidarity rally, which was organized by transgender activist Ashlee Marie Preston. Former Netflix employee B. Pagels-Minor, who was recently fired over a data leak, spoke at the event.

“As most of you know, I’m 33 weeks pregnant,” Pagels-Minor said, according to The Hollywood Reporter. “And when I thought about why I was participating in, it’s that my son does not grow up with content that hates me. I want my child to grow up in a world where they see that their parent, a Black trans person — because I exist, contrary to what the special says, contrary to what many people say — that I am valued and I am an important person as well.”

Celebrities such as Jameela Jamil and Colton Haynes showed their support for the Netflix walkout in a video. Actor Elliot Page and comedian Billy Eichner were among the notable names backing the protest on social media.

Dave Chappelle proponents and anti-transgender protesters also appeared at the rally. Gigi Laroux, who claimed to be a supporter of comedy, was among those in attendance.

“We are protesting this walkout,” she told Variety. They have the right to do it, but we have the right to stand up for Dave Chappelle and his freedom of expression. This boils down to equality, and if people want equality they to be put on the same level as anybody else. Comedians are equal opportunity destroyers.”

The anti-trans contingent included a woman who refused to be identified when interviewed by Reuters.

“The transgender cult kidnapped two of my children and transformed their bodies in ways they can’t change, and I’m damn angry about it,” she said. “I have children, and children are being put on a one-way path to permanent body destruction through the transgender ideology.”

Dave Chappelle’s The Closer has faced backlash for being transphobic. Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos initially defended the special but has since claimed he “screwed up” in his response to employee concerns.

An In-Depth Look Into the Journey of Music’s Rising Star Seno

By: Staff Writer Updated Category: Music
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Stefan Morales, or Seno as he is popularly known, is one of the fast-rising music talents in the country. Seno is a talented recording artist and songwriter, gradually cementing his position in the music scene. The Florida boy is taking over the industry by storm with his smooth vocals that perfectly blend any beats he lands on. Many music enthusiasts are thrilled by Seno’s extensive style of music that is unique and identical to him.

Some may recognize him as a rapper as that’s the sound he started out within his music career, but he has since dropped it to focus on making more melodic music. It was a tough challenge, but Seno has since grown to become an even better version of himself as a singer. 

The young, gifted music talent has been featured in various articles, publications, and platforms, including Hulu for a brief moment. Early into his music career, Seno performed on some of the best global stages. He made a mark in the music scene with his debut album, Stories From the Back, which he dropped in 2016. The album did exceptionally well, gaining traction in the industry. 

Unfortunately, Seno was arrested immediately after releasing the album for allegedly discharging a firearm in a public place. He was held for a year in county jail and spent four years on probation. This was a major setback for Seno just when his music career seemed to have picked up. It was a disappointment to him, his family, and his fanbase, who were looking forward to his next release. 

“With me never being to jail before and facing 25 to life really put me at a standstill with music, I was an emotional wreck,” says Seno.

Seno has since bounced back, and he is working on several projects. It’s been a while since the sensational singer dropped a track, but he promises his fans that more incredible things are coming soon. According to him, he is sitting on a lot of unreleased music that he promises will shake up the industry soon. 

His advice to anyone out there is that you need to do whatever it takes to follow your dreams. Seno believes that some people will doubt or discourage you, especially during tough times, but you should not give up on your dreams when that happens.

“The number of times people told us to stop what we were doing because we would never ever make it or make enough noise for anyone to hear or listen, those are the same people that keep reaching out now to hook up or find out when the next Backhouse party is,” adds Seno.

Seno’s dream is to grow his music brand to the international stage and hopefully go global. He envisions himself performing on one of the world’s biggest stages in front of thousands of fans. It’s also part of his goal to influence and motivate other people around him to find success. His vision is to see all his close friends succeed, as that’s the most significant gift for any friendship.

Common & Chance The Rapper Advocate For Parole Reform In Illinois

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: Uncategorized
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Common and Chance The Rapper are seeking parole reform in Illinois.

Both rappers are pushing for change in their home state, which doesn’t have discretionary parole. The two spoke alongside activists from the nonprofit Parole Illinois at a press conference outside Cook County Jail on Wednesday.

Common and Chance The Rapper are specifically advocating for Senate Bill 2333 to be passed by Illinois legislators. The bill would amend state law to allow people to be eligible for parole after serving at least 20 years behind bars.

“SB 2333 is a necessary policy that will begin to correct the harms of long-term incarceration in this state and putting an end to negative impacts that incarceration has on our community, family members and the loved ones of those who are incarcerated,” Chance The Rapper said, according to Block Club Chicago. “We need a criminal justice system that reflects the values we want to see in this world.”

He added, “We need to start pushing and transforming our criminal justice system in sentencing laws. With this reality in mind, that means pushing for policies like parole.”

At the presser, Common shared a story about reconnecting with someone from his youth who was serving a life sentence. The veteran rapper mentioned the man as an example of why parole is needed in Illinois.

“He said … ’It’s people like me that are dealing with mental sickness and dealing with mental pain that can change and transform,’” Common recalled. “It really struck me because I knew this brother, and I knew what he used to be. I knew who he was then. I’ve met some of the most enlightened and inspiring people in prison.

Illinois legislators are expected to vote on Senate Bill 2333 in the next two weeks. If Common and Chance The Rapper get their wish, the state will have discretionary parole for the first time since 1978.

Wu-Tang’s One-Of-A-Kind Album Sold Off To Investment Collective

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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After months of speculation, the person that purchased the Wu-Tang Clan’s *Once Upon a Time in Shaolin *album from the government is revealed.

The feds sold the project for a whopping $4 million. The New York Times says that the buyer, who paid that seven figures, is a private investment collective called PleasrDAO.

They received the album on September 10th and have kept it sealed away in a vault. The location of the vault is unknown and is listed as “somewhere in New York City.”

“I am one lucky ol’ dirty bastard to have heard the album first hand. I may have been biased, and my adrenaline was certainly pumping, but what I heard on that album was phenomenal. Lyrically it’s Wu-Tang Clan at their best and very reminiscent of their early albums coupled with a production quality that sounded like it was recorded yesterday,” gushed Jamis Johnson, “Chief Pleasing Officer.”

As reported by AllHipHop.com, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York sold the album earlier this summer, after seizing the one-of-a-kind musical masterpiece from Martin Shkreli, the crooked pharmaceutical CEO who sought to defraud millions with a series of unscrupulous business deals.

Shkreli himself purchased the project in 2015 for $2 million.

When he was convicted of fraud and sentenced to seven years in prison, the government took a total of $7.36 million of his assets in a forfeiture order, which included Once Upon a Time in Shaolin in 2018.

What a sigh of relief, as many (including members of the original Wu-Tang Clan) were furious that Shkreli was the one that purchased the album!

Now in the hands of PleasrDAO, the exclusive offering may be available to the public. Currently, they are working with RZA and producer Cilvaringz to get permission to sell the project.

Who’s up to enter the 36 Chambers…again?

Lil Yachty A Dad; Welcomes Baby Girl

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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Lil Yachty done went and had himself an even littler boat.

The Quality Control rapper recently welcomed his first child. And despite him being Southern-grown, his little girl was born a few weeks ago in New York City.

According to TMZ, who dropped the news, there is not a lot of information about his daughter or her mother, but we are sure that the new dad is on cloud nine.

Cloud nine or not, business is still going on.

His social media accounts show that he is not only in the studio, but shopping for beats. He tweeted on October 16th that producers should drop their beats in the comments. He said, “Drop yo beat snippets under this tweet,” to which hundreds flocked to submit tracks.

After listening to some submissions, Boat couldn’t help himself and responded saying, “Bra I hope y’all n##### don’t quit yall day job c##….”

Afterward, he took to Instagram to announce his new song titled, “Believing.”

“New song “Believing” on the @Pokemon #Pokemon25 album – listen NOW Link in bio”

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

The song is off Pokémon 25: The Album, which also features Post Malone, Tierra Whack, Katy Perry, Vince Staples, and J Balvin.

In September, after his involvement was announced, he said, “I’ve always been a huge Pokémon fan and I jumped at the opportunity to be on the album. I love the record I did for it called ‘Believing’ and I hope it inspires my fans to chase their dreams.”

Now, we are sure he will also inspire his new daughter to chase her dreams too!