Chris Rock returned to the spotlight to address the infamous Oscars slap and his willingness to host Hollywood’s biggest night again, revealing a refreshing perspective rooted deeply in forgiveness.
In an exclusive new chat with E! News, the renowned comedian and actor reflected candidly on the unforgettable moment from the 2022 Oscars, when actor Will Smith stormed the stage and slapped him after Rock made a quip comparing Smith’s then-wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, to “G.I. Jane,” referencing her shaved head due to alopecia.
The controversial slap quickly went viral, sparking widespread debate and resulting in a decade-long ban for Smith from all Academy events, including future Oscar ceremonies.
At the time, Smith famously shouted from his seat, “Keep my wife’s name out your f**king mouth!” But now, more than a year later, Chris Rock appears to have risen above the drama.
Speaking openly, the “Grown Ups” star shared his philosophy on forgiveness and hinted that he might be open to hosting duties at the Oscars again someday.
“This is what I would say, the most miserable people on earth are people that can’t forgive,” Chris Rock said. “And not just people, you have to forgive yourself sometimes. So, hey, you never know.”
Rock further emphasized the importance of moving forward, adding, “I live in forgiveness. True love starts at forgiveness.”
Nick Cannon is apparently not only interested in breaking Elon Musk’s record for number of children, but also in possibly shattering the ideologies behind the construction of the family tree.
During a recent interview, adult film actress Brandi Sheri opened up about her experience dating Nick Cannon at the same time as her identical twin sister, Brittany. Sheri explained the details of their time as a blissful throuple during an appearance on the Plug Talk Podcast last month. While discussing the trend of men attempting to “rescue” her from the lifestyle of the p### industry, Sheri revealed how her relationship with Cannon and her sister was particularly unique.
More specifically, when asked if Cannon attempted to “save” her, Sheri replied, “Uh, he’s the only guy that was able to properly date me and my sister together.”
Considering Nick Cannon has made it very well known that he plans to spread his seed and procreate with as many able bodied partners as his heart desires, Sheri was asked if they had discussions about having a babies together.
“We had that discussion, but who wants brother cousins or sister cousins or daddy uncle?” Sheri replied before adding, “How do I explain that to everybody?”
As the exchange continued, the conversation shifted to the particulars of their relationship, which Sheri confirmed lasted for at least a year and a half. During that time frame, Sheri admitted that they all lived together and shared nearly everything amongst each other, including sexual intimacy.
”Unless I wake up and he was like f*cking her in the bathroom, but I wouldn’t care,” she said.
Coincidentally, around the same time Sheri’s interview aired last month, Cannon congratulated Musk for welcoming his 13th child into the world—though it has since been revealed that he has fathered 14 children to date. In 2023, 50 Cent trolled Cannon for being the father of 12 during an interview promoting his G-Unit TV and Films endeavor.
“If I had Nick Cannon’s 12 kids or s### like that, you could put them all in a bedroom,” 50 Cent said. “Everybody’s here. Putting everybody together, then it would make sense. But I’m not going to have kids like that. I don’t want the responsibility of that many women that you got to deal with emotionally, especially after they don’t feel like your friend anymore.”
He continued, “I don’t know what the f### is wrong with Nick Cannon. This s### is just different. I have to work on that part right there when it slips out. That’s the old 50 Cent. I am the new 50.”
Angie Stone: The Hip-Hop Soul Pioneer Who Helped Shape the Game
In 1981, after she had a hit song, Angie B was backstage at Disco Fever in the Bronx with the first female rapper, a young MC Sha-Rock. By this time, the pair are rap stars at the forefront of the explosion of Hip-Hop. And Disco Fever was the spot that jumped off as Hip-Hop took hold of the city.
Disco Fever was in the South Bronx, considered one of the most blighted urban areas in the United States. The widespread poverty, abandoned buildings and crime were highly publicized. On that particular day, Sha and Angie—neither old enough to drink—posed for a picture, not knowing what was about to happen.
“My fondest memory of Angie is this night back in 1981 at Disco Fever in the Bronx,” Sha-Rock told AllHipHop. “Right after we’d taken this pic together,” she recollects. “Someone shot off a gun. People began to run and trample over each over. I fell and Angie covered me with her body; until we were able to get from under the chaos and get to safety.”
This was Angie Brown—a child of the deep South and Black church, she had ventured far from home to make her mark on music. After hit songs on Sugar Hill Records and after Sha-Rock made a historic performance on Saturday Night Live as a member of the Funky 4 + 1, her character stood tall wherever she was. Unbeknownst to her, her talents, heart, soul and nerve would go on to impact the course of history.
Angie Brown, who started going by Angie Stone, was part of one of Hip-Hop’s first all-female rap groups, The Sequence, way before Salt-N-Pepa, MC Lyte or Queen Latifah. Alongside Cheryl “The Pearl” Cook and Gwendolyn “Blondy” Chisolm, Stone broke barriers when they signed with Sugar Hill Records in the late ’70s. How? The teens, hailing out of South Carolina, auditioned for legendary music mogul Sylvia Robinson at a local event. The Sugar Hill boss quickly signed the three high school students, who performed a game-changing cheerleading routine as their last song.
That routine was eventually recorded as the hit “Funk You Up” (1979), which came out right after Sugar Hill Gang’s smash “Rapper’s Delight.” This jam was one of the earliest rap songs ever recorded and the first for a female rap group. The song, a Top 15 hit, resonated for decades. Dr. Dre used parts of the song for his record “Keep Their Heads Ringin’” in 1995.
“When The Sequence hit the [New York] Hip-Hop scene and released “Funk You Up,” both the legendary Frankie Crocker of WBLS and Mr. Magic of WHBI, put the record in rotation,” Hip-Hop Matriarch” MC Debbie D says.
Growing up in Harlem and The BX, she lived the early days of the culture and recognized that what the group was doing was expanding beyond the streets.
“Their [The Sequence] faces were on the cover [of their songs] and back then, nobody’s faces were on the cover. We were in the Bronx and Harlem, but they were on tour,” she explains. “They were doing stuff. It’s unfortunate Angie Stone’s death happened for these stories to come out.”
The Sequence’s impact was undeniable, even though most narratives continue to pontificate as if they didn’t exist. They brought an authentic, Southern-fried funk to the culture, bridging the gap between R&B, funk and rap’s raging bravado.
“Angie was a passionate person when it came to the Sequence’s contributions to Hip-Hop Culture, as she should,” Sha-Rock says. “We went through a lot of things together in the early 80’s; from going on the first Hip-Hop tour with the Sugar Hill Record Label in 1981 with Grandmaster Flash & The Furious 5 to Funky 4+1 More, The Gap Band, Wayne & Charlie and Skyyy.”
A child of the Deep South, Stone was born inColumbia, South Carolina, in 1961. She was steeped in gospel music from an early age and applied that soul to rap. Her soul voice—both literally and figuratively—became a powerful force in an emerging sound that would change the world. And then she applied it to another trend that would alter how we heard music.
The Evolution of Angie Stone
By 1985, The Sequence had broken up, making way for the explosion of Hip-Hop culture.
Unlike many of her peers who faded into the background as Hip-Hop evolved, Angie Stone reinvented herself. She took a pit stop with the group Vertical Hold, which yielded the hit song “Seems You’re Much Too Busy.” She did not stay there. Her roots were in rap, so she brought that swagger to the rich, emerging world of R&B and Neo-Soul. By carrying Hip-Hop’s energy into the realm of melody and deep storytelling.
Her work with D’Angelo, who would eventually father her son, on his 1995 classic “Brown Sugar” was pivotal. (It should be noted the pair collaborated in ’94 on Vertical Hold’s powerful ballad “Pray.”) D, a native of Richmond, Virginia, looked like he could be a 90s emcee. Instead, brought that to deep soul to the world with help from Angie Stoneo. She co-wrote and provided background vocals on severalf his tracks, helping to bolster what would be coined the Neo-Soul Movement. This version of R&B was raw, organic, and undeniably connected to Hip-Hop.
Hip-Hop Collaborations: Angie’s Unbreakable Connection to Rap
Though Angie transitioned into a soul singer, her bond with Hip-Hop never wavered. She seamlessly blended both genres in ways that many artists today take for granted.
“Brotha” (2001) became an anthem for Black men and featured a remix with Eve and Alicia Keys.
She has also collaborated with Musiq Soulchild, Guru, Talib Kweli, and Raphael Saadiq, artists who each embrace the intersection of Hip-Hop, Jazz and soul.
She even “collaborated” with Rodney Stone, better known as Lil Rodney C, a group mate in the Funky Four + 1 with Sha Rock. Their marriage produced their daughter Diamond in 1985. “They were the first ‘Love and Hip-Hop’ relationship,” Debbie professes.
Angie Stone Matters in Hip-Hop
Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur and Angie Stone
Angie Stone’s name is often overlooked when the history of Hip-Hop is told, but her fingerprints are everywhere. Be clear, her impact to this thing of ours cannot be quantified. As a rapper, she was a trailblazer; as a singer, she helped shape the modern sound of Hip-Hop-infused R&B.
At a time when female voices were rarely given the credit they deserved in rap’s early days, The Sequence helped lay the foundation for future generations. Their influence is still heard in today’s music, whether through samples or in the careers of artists who stand on their shoulders.
“The Sequence were proof that women in Hip-Hop were marketable. National tours, TV and radio appearances, countless performances,” Debbie D said. “The Sequence is Hip-Hop’s first female rap and Angie Stone, songwriter and Neo Soul recording artist, has always been a beast on the mic!”
At the time of her death, Angie Stone remained a respected elder of the culture, a reminder that the bridge between Hip-Hop and soul has always existed. Long before the industry truly acknowledged it, Her work embodied the heart of both genres.
So, put some respect on Angie Stone’s name, because without her, the sound of today might have been very, very different.
EPILOGUE
Before the terrible car crash, Angie Stone continued to work hard, in the spirit of love, legacy and – possibly survival.
Mali Hunter, the famed Atlanta studio owner, recently returned to her roots of singing. She and Angie announced a tour a few short days ago, February 27.
“My body aches as I write this. My Big Sister, Mentor, and prayer warrior – Angie Stone,”You gave God all the glory, all the time. We had plans to tour together this spring. Our 20-year bond was sisterhood, love, and uplift. At times you were my rock, at others I was yours. Your surprise quote in Thursday’s press release for my EP will forever be etched in my heart. I’ll carry your legacy with me, and I know you’ll be shining your light on me as you always did. Until we meet again, dear one praying this 1st Sunday of the month that God blesses your children, family, and friends with peace beyond all understanding! Rest now️ for a job well done.”
Similar to Sha-Rock, Stone was also fighting for her “coins,” as she posted a revealing condemnation of Universal Records in an Instagram post just before that fatal car crash. The circumstances surrounding her passing have reignited discussions about the financial struggles many artists endure. A grandmother, she worried about being able to retire and what monies her heirs would receive. In the clip, she voiced concerns over her royalties, implying that Universal Music Group had not been properly distributing the funds she was owed.
“End of the day, after 40 something years in the business, I’m like, well, why…where are my royalties going?” she questioned. Stone suggested that her earnings had been mismanaged, hindering her financial stability throughout her career. She further referenced unresolved class-action lawsuits and hinted at betrayals from those within her inner circle.
“I’m only now discovering that they were not properly registered by the companies I entrusted them to,” she said, expressing frustration over the negligence of those responsible for protecting her interests.
Angie Stone fought until the very end and there is nothing more Hip-Hop than that.
May she rest, knowing she was loved, appreciated and changed the world for the better.
actually very sad bc angie stone just uploaded this video not too long ago calling out universal music group for basically mishandling all of her royalties. 💔 pic.twitter.com/un48w4cza8
Kendrick Lamar’s blood cousin, rapper Hitta J3, has called out Rubi Rose over her recent remarks about Drake.
On Sunday (March 2), Hitta J3 targeted Rose in a series of tweets in which he criticized her statement regarding Drake and Kendrick’s brutal rap feud. More specifically, Hitta J3 pushed back on Rose’s judgmental rhetoric regarding the shift in public opinion seemingly favoring Kendrick.
“Remember when ppl tried to say Kendrick over Drake lol wtf,” Rose wrote on February 28.
Though he didn’t catch wind of her words until March 2, Hitta J3 didn’t allow Rose to get away with her tongue-in-cheek tweet and proceeded to call her out for allegedly switching sides. In fact, according to his word, Rose was actually a key member in attendance during Kendrick’s Juneteenth concert last year at the height of the West Coast lyricist’s battle with Drake.
“Tell @RubiRose stop faking like she wasn’t pullin up to dot concert in LA she know she been A Fan of Gang too,” Hitta J3 wrote in a tweet he tagged Rose in.
In a follow up remark, Hitta J3 further picked on Rose, putting her down over her dating history in a tweet he wrote, “How you go from f##### with carti [Playboi Carti] to Druski lol.”
Rose’s words falls on the heels of Drake and PARTYNEXTDOOR’s $ome $exy $ongs 4U album debuting at the number one spot on the Billboard 200 Album chart mere weeks after Kendrick Lamar performed his “Not Like Us” diss track aimed at Drizzy during his performance at the Super Bowl LIX halftime show.
Hitta J3’s response to Rose isn’t necessarily shocking, given he’s been tweeting negative things about Drake and his associates for months now amid the Toronto MC’s conflict with Kendrick. Days before he singled out Rose, he indirectly sent a shot in Drake’s direction via a tweet inferring that Kendrick’s “Not Like Us” lyrics about Drizzy being a pedophile were true.
“It’s funny because he got exposed for liking little girls now they tryna say everybody else like little girls let him hold his title proudly lol,” he tweeted.
As for Rose, several users appear to side with Hitta J3 and tweeted proverbial receipts of her support for Kendrick, including a previous interview in which she spoke about how Baby Keem introduced them along with videos of her recently, Vibing out to his GNX chart-topper “Luther” featuring SZA.
Hoodfame rapper G$ Lil Ronnie and his daughter have been identified as the two people shot and killed at Slappy’s Express Car Wash in Forest Hill, Texas, although their names weren’t immediately released. The two deaths were confirmed by Tarrant County ambulance service MedStar, according to CBS News.
Video from local news crews on the scene shows Forest Hill Police, MedStar and the Fort Worth Fire Department responding in the 6500 block of Forest Hill Drive. The harrowing scene unfolded on Monday (March 3) with witnesses describing hearing what sounded like gunshots in the area.
A nearby resident April Tarpley heard what sounded like a “bunch of gunshots.” She added, “I was laying in my bed, and I heard a bunch of gunshots. Initially I thought it was them working in the street. It was loud. I wish they hadn’t put that car wash right there because, yeah, it’s just been like issues upon issues. Mainly with traffic getting out of my neighborhood.
Another neighbor Becky Johnson said she also heard what sounded like gunfire. She told WFAA, “I heard six — one, two, three, pop, pop, pop, pop, pop — then about a few seconds later, I heard another six.”
Lil Ronnie hailed from Fort Worth, Texas, and was known for his contributions to the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) rap scene. His music blended classic Hip-Hop elements with contemporary production techniques, creating a sound that is both innovative and grounded in tradition.
With chart-topping singles like “Red Roses” and critically acclaimed albums often branded with “Best in Texas,” he established himself as a leading figure in the region’s rap renaissance. His lyrical style, characterized by introspection and relatability, explored personal struggles, empowerment and triumph.
Beyond his music, Lil Ronnie was deeply connected to the culture of vinyl records, which influenced both his artistry and his appreciation for music’s tangible history. His collaborations with other DFW artists, such as Go Yayo, highlighted the collaborative spirit of the local scene and its growing influence in Southern Hip-Hop.
Ronnie’s Instagram is blowing up with tributes. AllHipHop sends its condolences to their loved ones.
Blacc Sam confronted Crip-affiliated blogger Rocstar2800 during the grand opening of Marathon Burger on Saturday (March 1), making it clear that certain individuals weren’t welcome at the establishment. Sam reportedly told the blogger to “go ride” on those who have disrespected his late brother, Nipsey Hussle, rather than appearing at a venue created in Nipsey’s honor.
There were rumors that this blogger might have been gathering information for Wack 100. However, the veteran music manager (and Blood affiliate) quickly denied these claims, stating that he didn’t send anyone to observe Blacc Sam or the Marathon Burger launch. Wack 100 also mentioned that he supports the new business and was unhappy about being connected to the situation.
Interestingly, the blogger was apparently collecting information and then sharing it with Wack 100 voluntarily. Wack responded by publicly calling out the blogger for this behavior, creating an unusual situation where the information-gatherer was himself exposed.
Wack 100 goes off on Rocstar2800 for mentioning his name during his altercation with Blacc Sam:
Nipsey’s legacy continues to attract attention, and some speculate this might have been an attempt to test how close someone could get to Blacc Sam and the Marathon brand. But that’s just me.
Hopefully, this situation won’t escalate further. Blacc Sam has worked hard to preserve his brother’s legacy, and Marathon Burger should be a place to celebrate that achievement rather than a venue for controversy.
Wishing peace and protection for all involved.
Please support Marathon Burger at 7507 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046.
Sampling has become one of the most influential strategies in modern music production, shaping genres from hip-hop to electronic sounds. It involves repurposing snippets of existing recordings into new compositions.
Producers can blend the past and present to create new sounds, whether with a drum break, instrumental loop, or vocal phase. However, the art of sampling involves more than cutting and pasting audio. Read on to discover everything about the subject.
What Are the Basics of Sampling?
Sampling involves reusing parts of music recordings to create different songs. This repurposed sample, usually called the sample, can be a rhythm, a speech snippet, ambient sounds, or a melody.
Sampling, an old practice, has become popular because it helps to give new life to old songs, sometimes changing them into completely different songs. It isn’t just lifting parts of other songs. Like other intellectual property, strict copyright laws also come into play.
Before using a sample, you must get the required clearance from the original holders of the copyright. Even so, there is a line between inspiration and plagiarism. In some cases, this clearance may involve licensing agreements and financial compensation. Failure to meet this requirement can lead to legal disputes and substantial fines, so copyright considerations are important in music sampling.
While there are several classic hip-hop samples you need to know, other music genres have also recently become popular. Sampling is a foundational strategy in music production, allowing artists to use existing sounds in fresh creative work. The huge number of sounds available for use has made it an essential aspect of music creation.
What Are the Different Music Sampling Techniques?
You can use multiple techniques if you’ve decided on the sounds to sample. These techniques differ in difficulty, with some being more advanced than others. For instance, chopping involves slicing the sample at different points.
With looping, you create repetitions with the snippet while adding other elements. Using rearranging sampling, you’ll place the snippets into new sounds. Other types of music sampling include:
Transposing
Resampling
Sample mixing
Reversing
Time stretching
How to Use Sampling in Music Production
Sampling is an intricate journey that requires a keen ear for potential. It allows you to create new and original sounds. Choosing a sound for sampling can be tricky, but adjusting it to fit your music can be more challenging. Here are the steps for using sampling in music production.
Choosing a Sample
The first step to using sampling in music production is to choose a sample. Look for sounds that complement your track’s mood. Consider the tempo, texture, and key to ensure smooth integration. A well-chosen sample can define your track’s character.
Manipulating the Sample
Manipulating a sample can transform it into something unique. Techniques like chopping and reversing can reshape the sound to fit your track. Adding effects like distortion and filtering can improve creativity. However, experiment with innovative sounds while maintaining a personal touch.
Adding the Sample to Your New Composition
The final step is adding the manipulated sample into your new composition. In this case, you must ensure that all the elements complement each other. The producer must also consider the rhythm, melody, and overall structure.
Endnote
Sampling has become a huge part of music production. However, you must choose a sample that matches other aspects of your song. You must also manipulate the sample to transform it into a unique sound before adding it to your new song.
Diddy allegedly hid in the trunk of an LAPD cruiser to secretly escape Los Angeles moments after the murder of famed rapper Notorious B.I.G., according to explosive claims made by former Bad Boy Entertainment co-founder Kirk Burrowes.
The stunning allegation surfaced in a new lawsuit filed by Burrowes against Sean “Diddy” Combs, accusing the mogul of a sustained pattern of abuse, manipulation and intimidation spanning over a decade.
According to the lawsuit, Burrowes documented Diddy’s immediate actions following the tragic March 9, 1997, shooting death of Christopher Wallace, better known as Notorious B.I.G.
Burrowes claims that Diddy, unharmed but reportedly panicked, wasted no time fleeing the city after Wallace was fatally shot in a drive-by attack.
The lawsuit asserts that Diddy quickly reached out to veteran music industry fixer Clarence Avant rather than staying in Los Angeles to comfort Wallace’s grieving family or assist the Bad Boy staff through the traumatic event.
Avant, utilizing his considerable influence with high-ranking LAPD officials, allegedly arranged for Diddy’s covert escape from Los Angeles.
In a particularly striking detail, the lawsuit alleges he was “reportedly transported to a private airport via the trunk of a police cruiser, allowing him to leave the city undetected as local gangs searched downtown Los Angeles for him.”
The filing harshly criticizes Diddy for what it describes as “false, performative grief” publicly displayed in the aftermath of Wallace’s murder.
While he vowed publicly to spare no expense in honoring his slain friend, behind closed doors, Burrowes alleges that Diddy and his attorney, Kenneth Meiseles, pressured him to hand over Wallace’s final business contract, which had been carefully negotiated to provide Wallace greater financial autonomy.
According to the suit, Diddy instructed Burrowes to alter the agreement to grant the Bad Boy founder “a 100% interest in Wallace’s works.” Burrowes says he refused to alter the document but was forced to hand it over.
When the contract was returned, the lawsuit claims, only the cover page and signature page remained untouched — the critical financial terms had been completely rewritten.
Further, Burrowes alleges that Diddy reneged on public promises to cover Wallace’s funeral expenses, instead charging the entire cost to Wallace’s artist expense account, saddling his estate and family with the financial burden.
The suit argues that his actions ultimately deprived Wallace’s mother, Voletta Wallace, and his children of the wealth and security Wallace had worked diligently to secure.
The lawsuit, however, extends far beyond financial allegations, accusing Diddy of a decade-long pattern of sexual harassment, coercion, intimidation and violence against Burrowes himself.
It contends that Diddy weaponized his power at Bad Boy Entertainment to subject Burrowes to repeated unwanted sexual advances and physical aggression, ultimately forcing him to relinquish his 25% ownership stake in the company under threat of violence.
Once Hip-Hop royalty, the legacy of Bad Boy Entertainment now faces scrutiny as Burrowes’s lawsuit pulls back the curtain on alleged dark dealings behind the scenes.
As the accusations unfold, the story of Notorious B.I.G.’s tragic death continues to cast a long shadow over the Hip-Hop industry he helped define.
Snoop Dogg has become a grandfather again after his daughter Cori Broadus welcomed her little girl three months before her due date.
The West Coast icon’s youngest child announced the news in a joint Instagram post with her fiancé Wayne Deuce, on Friday (February 1), sharing a black and white image of their daughter’s foot.
“The princess arrived at 6 months,” Broadus wrote in the caption. “I’ve cried and cried, I’ve compared and compared, blaming myself because I wasn’t able to give her all that she needed. But no matter what God always shows me that He got me!”
She added, “Baby girl came at 25 weeks today and she’s the best!! Thank You God for getting me this far.”
Broadus, Snoop Dogg’s only daughter, opened up about the birth on her Instagram Stories.
“1st c-section was a success,” she wrote on a photo of her lying on the operating table. “s/o to the man up above.”
In a follow-up post, the first-time mom revealed that she went to the doctor thinking she “just had a bad case of gas,” but was later diagnosed with HELLP syndrome.
According to Yale Medicine, HELLP syndrome is a rare, life-threatening condition that stands for Hemolysis, Elevated Liver Enzyme Levels, and Low Platelet Levels. It typically occurs in the third trimester but can also develop during or after childbirth, leading to serious complications like hemorrhage or excessive bleeding.
Broadus explained that the syndrome “is very severe and can even cause death if untreated.” She added, “[The] doctors told me thank you for coming and if I would’ve waited a few more days it would’ve been really bad.”
She also offered a crucial reminder to other expectant mothers, urging them to trust their instincts.
“Ladies please listen to your bodies,” she stated. “Don’t believe everything you see on TIK TOK( talking to myself lowkey).”
Snoop Dogg Opens Up About Cori Suffering A Stroke In 2024
Last year, Cori Broadus revealed that she suffered a severe stroke in January 2024, a life-threatening event that changed her perspective.
“I was celebrating at a party, and then the next day, I’m in the hospital,” she shared. “I think it really scared everyone… You know, a stroke is no joke. It brought me and my family closer, [realizing] that anything can happen in the snap of a finger.”
Snoop Dogg also opened up about the terrifying experience.
“It’s hard for me to revisit that day,” he admitted. “Anyone who knows me knows my daughter is my kryptonite.”
Drake has reached a settlement with Texas-based iHeartMedia over the dispute concerning Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us.”
The settlement was announced on February 28, according to AP News.
In a court filing, Drake’s attorneys confirmed that the rapper and iHeartMedia had “reached an amicable resolution of the dispute,” but provided no additional details, per the outlet. “We are pleased that both parties have reached a mutually satisfactory settlement and have no further comment on the matter.”
Drake’s initial legal petition was filed in November 2024 in Bexar County, Texas. The petition alleged that iHeartMedia received illegal payments from Universal Music Group (UMG) to boost radio airplay for “Not Like Us.”
This settlement resolves one part of Drake’s legal battle over the Kendrick Lamar diss, but his dispute with UMG continues.
Drake’s allegations against UMG include “irregular and inappropriate business practices” to promote the song.
The Hip-Hop heavyweight first accused UMG of boosting the song’s success through artificial streaming methods, bots, and other actions, which he claims not only damaged his reputation but also jeopardized his safety after Kendrick Lamar labeled him a “certified pedophile.”
The petition also claims that UMG knew the song, its album art and music video falsely accused Drake of serious criminal acts.
However, Drake is scaling back parts of his lawsuit against Universal Music Group over Lamar’s diss. Court documents reveal that Drake has agreed to drop “key allegations,” though it remains unclear which ones, raising doubts about the strength of his case.
Meanwhile, UMG is pushing to delay an upcoming pretrial conference, arguing that Drake’s case may not even hold up in court.
Gervonta Davis blamed excessive hair grease burning his eyes for taking a knee in his hotly anticipated world title fight against Lamont Roach Jr. over the weekend, but his stylist has something to say about it.
The bout ended in a controversial majority draw, with his touching the canvas a major point of contention.
The lightweight champion cited his hairdresser when explaining why he took a knee in the ninth round, claiming his eyes were irritated because she used too much grease.
“I just got my hair done two days ago and she put grease in my s###,” Davis explained during a post-fight interview. “So the s### was like sweating and things like that and the grease coming in my face.”
The New York crowd began booing, prompting Tank to double down.
“It burned my eyes type s###, yeah. Damn, why y’all booing like I’m saying b#######?” he added. “Like, this is real facts. Come on, man. Look at my hair, I just got my s### done. But it’s all cool, man. You know how it get. They love you, then they hate you. Turn around then they love you again.”
Gervonta Davis says he took a knee in the 9th round because there was grease in his eyes from his hair:
“I did his hair WEDNESDAY, It’s SATURDAY!” she wrote in a since-deleted Instagram post. “He did press, gym and weigh in. That’s no excuse, how much grease did I use damn”
In another clip, she poked fun at Davis, asking, “Is the grease in the room with us?”
The hairdresser also shared an image of the product used on Davis’ hair, which reads “no grease” on the label.
Nonetheless, Davis took to social media to repeat his claims.
“They took the fight from me and made it a draw becuz I did that b####### knee,” he tweeted Sunday (March 2). “But I landed the most punches in the fight..he didn’t even hit me w a punch when I took the knee. I get it though, I shouldn’t have done that but that hair grease was burning my eyes!”
Cam’ron is firing back at Jim Jones in the latest chapter of their ongoing feud after Capo accused him and Swizz Beatz of cutting an unfair deal for the Verzuz battle between Dipset and The Lox without his knowledge.
The rapper-turned-podcaster put his former fellow Diplomat on blast in an Instagram post Sunday night (March 2), sharing a clip of Jones’ remarks alongside a screenshot of an alleged text message where Jones offered to do the Verzuz battle for free.
“This opportunity is bigger thn life to me it’s not about money,” Jones wrote, calling the opportunity an “ultimate bucket list” dream.
He even offered to give Cam’ron his share to ensure the Verzuz took place, believing it could open doors for them both as a group and as solo artists.
“But really I just wanna touch tht stage in a big way,” Jones added. “If I have to take a loss to make a gain I’m willin to.”
Cam’ron acknowledged that the battle wasn’t about money but argued that the real issue was others profiting off them more than they were making for themselves.
“(Supreme etc) Swizz and then ain’t pay nobody,” he claimed. “Then sold the company for 40/50m’s.”
Cam’ron followed up in the caption, clowning Jim Jones for trying to “re-write history.”
“I don’t pay half the s### n##### say no mind,” he began. “But you know I keep the files. You wanted to do versus for free n####. So if you made a dollar be happy. Talking bout it was on ya bucket list..”
Cam’ron also seemingly responded to Jim Jones’ $10 million boxing match challenge. It appears Cam had a conversation with Floyd Mayweather that left him and his “It Is What It Is” co-hosts in stitches.
Oprah Winfrey is catching heat online after a heartfelt tribute to the late music icon Quincy Jones at the Oscars, which notably left out any mention of Michael Jackson.
The legendary music producer was honored with a touching musical tribute during the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday night (March 2).
Queen Latifah paid tribute by performing “Ease on Down the Road” from The Wiz, a film for which Jones was nominated for an Oscar for his Broadway adaptation.
Oprah Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg, both stars of The Color Purple, reunited to introduce Latifah’s performance. Jones composed the score for the 1985 film, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.
“The man, our beloved Q, had an equally powerful impact on the world of film as a composer and producer,” Winfrey said.
Goldberg added, “When we talk about Black excellence, we’re talking about Quincy.”
However, while Winfrey highlighted “musical genius” Jones’ collaborations with legends such as Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and Ray Charles, as well as his creation of iconic works like “We Are the World,” there was no mention of Michael Jackson.
“When we talk about Black excellence, we’re talking about Quincy.”
Oprah Winfrey Called Out For Not Mentioning Michael Jackson
This omission didn’t go unnoticed, with critics quickly taking to social media to call out Winfrey, especially given that Michael Jackson had famously performed the song (alongside Diana Ross) that Winfrey introduced.
One of Quincy Jones’ most significant contributions to pop music was producing Michael Jackson’s Thriller, which remains one of the best-selling albums of all time.
Jones also produced Jackson’s Off the Wall, and Bad albums after marking the beginning of their collaboration on The Wiz.
Their partnership not only propelled Jackson to the title of “King of Pop,” but also helped shape the iconic sound of 1980s pop music.
Although Michael Jackson sat with Oprah Winfrey for a groundbreaking interview in 1993, the relationship was called into question years after his death.
In 2019, Winfrey hosted a special called After Neverland, where she interviewed Wade Robson and James Safechuck, two men who accused Jackson of sexually abusing them as children. This special was seen by some Jackson supporters as a betrayal, given Oprah’s previous friendly relationship with the Jackson family.
Spotify is the streaming service bringing you millions of songs. But what if you can’t access it? Schools, workplaces, and even entire countries block Spotify for various reasons. That means no playlists, no podcasts, and definitely no Discover Weekly.
The good news? You can go over the restrictions and continue streaming your music. Whatever the reason behind your Spotify being blocked, these five methods will get you back to streaming in no time.
5 Ways To Access Spotify Anywhere
1. Use a Proxy
Imagine a proxy server as an intermediary power standing between your device and the internet. It conceals your IP identifier while redirecting your connection path through alternative geographical points. As a result, the service registers your presence as originating from a completely different regional location than your physical position.
But remember that finding a reputable proxy is the step that defines your anonymity level. Not sure which to choose? Start with free proxies https://proxybros.com/free-proxy-list/ for testing. Alternatively, if you’re ready for financial commitments, these are some other proxy types to try.
SOCKS5 Proxy – Best for speed and reliability. SOCKS5 supports multiple types of traffic, including streaming, meaning it works well with Spotify. Still, note that it won’t encrypt your data.
Residential Proxy – Provides the highest success rate. It assigns you a real IP address from a legitimate internet provider, making it less likely to be detected or blocked by Spotify.
Dedicated Proxy – Offers a private, unshared connection. It’s ideal for frequent users who want a stable connection.
2. Connect to a VPN
A Virtual Private Network is different from a proxy in that it encrypts your internet traffic. It works perfectly to unblock Spotify but can also secure your connection.
Some users commonly mix VPN services and proxies, so these are the core differences to help you choose between the two:
Feature
Proxy
VPN
Hides IP Address
YES
YES
Encrypts Traffic
NO
YES
Bypasses Geo-Restrictions
YES
YES
Works for Streaming
Sometimes
YES
Prevents ISP Tracking
NO
YES
Speeds
Faster
Slower (due to encryption)
3. Switch to a Different Network
Sometimes, changing your internet connection is the simplest way to reconnect to your Spotify. When does it work? For example, if your school or office Wi-Fi blocks Spotify, just using another network will fix the issue.
But remember: don’t overuse public Wi-Fi. Hackers commonly utilize it to spy on your data. Stay prudent and avoid logging into your accounts while using it.
4. Use a Smart DNS
Smart DNS technology alters your device’s address resolution process, creating the appearance that you’re browsing from a different geographical location. It differs from VPN services in a key way — while VPNs wrap your data in protective encryption, Smart DNS foregoes this security layer. The result? Noticeably quicker connection speeds at the expense of protective measures.
This tradeoff works in both directions: the absence of encryption means your browsing activities remain visible to third parties, unlike the privacy shield that VPN services provide.
5. Download Spotify Songs for Offline Use
If you expect network restrictions, download your favorite playlists in advance. Spotify Premium lets you save songs for offline listening so that you won’t need an internet connection at all. But here’s a word of warning: offline mode only lasts 30 days without reconnecting to Spotify. Thus, you must go online occasionally to keep your downloads active.
Why Can Your Spotify Get Blocked?
There are quite a few reasons Spotify can be blocked. Knowing them will help you find the most effective solution. That said, these are the most common issues to know about.
Geo-restrictions are the most common cause of account issues. Countries can ban Spotify due to a number of issues, including licensing concerns or government policies. If you live in one of these locations, the service will be largely unavailable: China, Cuba, Russia, Sudan, Yemen, etc.
Some institutions block streaming sites to reduce distractions and save bandwidth. If you cannot access Spotify from your school or workplace, it can be the reason behind the trouble.
Using public Wi-Fi connections? Well, some hotspots may block certain services to prevent heavy data usage.
Similarly, some internet providers throttle or block access to specific websites. So be sure to check your provider’s updates first.
Final Thoughts
Getting blocked from Spotify while listening to your favorite music can be a frustrating accident. Luckily, there are many effective ways to address the issue. Whether you decide to use a proxy, VPN, or switch to another network, remember that the first step should be defining the initial reason behind the blockage.
Megan Thee Stallion turned heads at the Vanity Fair Oscars party on Sunday night, walking the red carpet in a striking green gown that hugged her curves and left little to the imagination.
The show-stopping number featured a sweeping train and dramatic feather detailing, but it was the daring top— or lack of one—that truly stole the spotlight. Eschewing a bra, Megan opted for matching emerald pasties to cover her breasts, making a bold fashion statement that left little to the imagination.
Megan Thee Stallion opened up about the inspiration behind her daring look during a red-carpet interview.
“I just really wanted to give like, she’s baring it all at Vanity Fair,” she explained.
Despite her confidence, Megan admitted that even she needs a little self-encouragement at times. She shared the pep talk she gives herself when confidence wanes: “I just look in the mirror and I be like, ‘Damn. You that girl. Right?” You are that girl, so go outside and act like you that girl.’ And that’s how I tackle my day.”
In other Megan Thee Stallion news, the Grammy Award-winning rapper recently unveiled a new venture, launching a new tequila brand, Chicas Divertidas, while celebrating her milestone 30th birthday earlier this month.
“As someone who values good vibes and great memories, I knew I wanted to create a tequila that was designed to be shared and savored with my Hotties,” Megan said in a statement. “Smooth, sultry, and premium. This process has been years in the making, and I’m so proud to take this next step in my journey as an entrepreneur and launch this brand.”
Drake couldn’t escape the Kendrick Lamar “Not Like Us” shade on Hollywood’s biggest night as the Toronto rap superstar became an unexpected punchline at the Oscars.
Hosting the 97th Annual Academy Awards on Sunday (March 2), Conan O’Brien didn’t hold back. As the ceremony returned from a commercial break, he took a pointed jab at Drake, referencing both K. Dot’s scathing diss and the OVO Sound founder’s subsequent lawsuit.
“Well, we’re halfway through the show,” O’Brien quipped to the star-studded crowd at the Dolby Theatre. “Which means it’s time for Kendrick Lamar to come out and call Drake a pedophile!”
Gasps rippled through the stunned audience, quickly followed by laughter, before O’Brien added with a smirk:
Kendrick Lamar delivered his explosive diss track during last month’s Super Bowl Halftime Show—though, unlike O’Brien’s Oscars jab, he stopped short of directly labeling Drake a pedophile.
Just days before, Lamar swept the Grammys, winning five awards for “Not Like Us,” including Record of the Year and Song of the Year, setting the stage for a turbulent month for Drake.
Drake Addresses Collaborators During Final Australia Show
However, in his final performance before pulling the plug, Drake addressed his ongoing feud with Lamar, taking shots at former collaborators he now considers disloyal.
“For all my collaborators, the producers & the artists I’ve worked with…” he began, before making a pointed jab: “You know, the ones that didn’t turn p#### on me… I mean, the ones that are still real. I appreciate you.”
He added, “My real ones. I appreciate you because you’ve changed my life for me and everybody around me.”
Drake calls out the artists who turned on him in Brisbane 👀
“For all my collaborators, the producers & the artists I’ve worked with…”
“You know, the ones that didn’t turn p*ssy on me… I mean, the ones that are still real. I appreciate you.” pic.twitter.com/O8hS73sQDq
Meanwhile, Drake is scaling back parts of his lawsuit against Universal Music Group over Lamar’s diss. Court documents reveal that Drake has agreed to drop key allegations, though it remains unclear which ones, raising doubts about the strength of his case.
Jordan Stephens declined a chance to reprise his role in the Star Wars universe after producers allegedly asked him to cut his dreadlocks for a single scene.
The British rapper and actor, best known as one-half of the Hip-Hop duo Rizzle Kicks, revealed on TikTok that he was offered an appearance in Andor, the Disney+ prequel series to Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.
The opportunity excited him—until he realized it came with a catch.
“I was asked to be in a season of Andor, I don’t know which one,” Jordan Stephens shared in his video. “My character from Rogue One, Corporal Stordan Tonc, he was going to come back. I was like wow, that’s mad exciting.”
However, the excitement quickly faded when a request from the production team made him rethink his decision.
“A week before the shoot, they were like, ‘Can we see what you look like?’ I sent them a picture and they were like, ‘Can you cut off your dreadlocks?’” Stephens recalled.
For the 33-year-old, the request was out of the question.
“This is what they asked me to do, for one scene. Obviously, that’s ridiculous. That’s like six years of hair growth, I’m not cutting it off for one scene.”
In an attempt to find a compromise, Jordan Stephens suggested an alternative.
“What’s even more funny is I said, ‘Why can’t I just wear a helmet like I did in Rogue One?’ and they went, ‘We don’t think it would be realistic,’” he said. “A reality where we’re fighting slugs with laser guns but wearing a helmet is too far. Nice.”
The alleged demand ultimately led to his decision to step away from the project. Stephens did not specify whether the request to alter his hairstyle was tied to continuity concerns or other creative directives from the show’s producers.
While Andor continues its critically acclaimed run, Stephens remains focused on his music and acting career outside the galaxy far, far away.
The second season of Andor is set to premiere on Disney+ on April 22.
Morris Day Steps into the Film Game with Street Queens, His First Executive Produced Movie
Morris Day is trading in the stage for the silver screen.
The legendary frontman of The Time has stepped into the world of film production with Street Queens, a gritty new movie how streaming on Tubi. Day is known for his flashy persona and enduring musical legacy. However, the smooth-mannered Day is now expanding his empire by bringing real, raw storytelling to the forefront as an executive producer.
“Tubi is a platform that’s giving independent filmmakers a chance to tell stories,” Day told AllHipHop. “I don’t do much acting these days, but the idea of executive producing a film was interesting to me. Street Queens’ raw storytelling about three women in the street game looking for a way out was a story I felt many would relate to. I’m looking forward to expanding the Morris Day Entertainment brand and producing even more films.”
Directed by Jibril Haynes and written by Haynes and Courtney Benson, Street Queens follows the lives of three women entangled in the dangerous world of the streets. Desperate to break free from their circumstances, they navigate treacherous alliances, power struggles, and betrayals while fighting for a better future. The film is produced by Morris Day, Courtney Benson and Will Luke, a powerhouse team bringing a fresh vision to the urban drama genre.
For Day, the move into the film industry is about storytelling that hits the target audience. Morris Day came up out of Minneapolis with Prince and quickly rose to fame from his electrifying stage presence, vibrant suits and unforgettable hits like “Jungle Love” and “The Bird.”
With Street Queens, Day begins a new Hollywood chapter.
Reason has expressed his gratitude to his former record label Top Dawg Entertainment just as he delivers his first project following his departure from the West Coast-based imprint.
On Friday (February 28), video footage from his album listening party for his new LP I Love You Again began circulation on social media as users began reacting to Reason taking a moment to reflect on his journey with TDE. In addition to crediting the the label as being the force that introduced him to the world, he expressed his gratitude toward TDE, given his tumultuous exit following a public dispute with one of the presidents in 2023.
“I want to start off real quickly—thank you to Top Dawg Entertainment,” Reason began. “The majority of everybody would not know who I am without Top Dawg Entertainment, I appreciate everything that they’ve done for me. I appreciate them even letting me be able to go and do my own thing. I had a lot of special memories over there.”
REASON thanks TDE, following the release of his new album 🙏
“Thank you to Top Dawg Entertainment. A majority of everybody would not know who I am without Top Dawg Entertainment.”pic.twitter.com/xbNjHB8FcC
As he continued, Reason’s words emphasized the respect he had for the opportunities TDE provided him as he acknowledged the impact of the relationships, music and moments he experienced while signed to the label.
“I appreciate everybody at Top Dawg Entertainment and everything that they’ve done for me and all the paths that they’ve created and whatnot,” he said. I do want to start with that.”
Now stepping into a new chapter of his career, Reason has delivered his 10-track project, which is meant to signify his artistic rebirth, according to a press release. Featuring collaborations with Hit-Boy, Dreamville’s Bas, Ransom, Kota The Friend, and Coyote, the album serves as both a personal and artistic statement.
“I Love You Again is a thank you to my fans and to myself for not giving up on me and the music,” Reason said in a press stament. “This is a complete passion project. The cover art for the project symbolizes me headed off into a new space, mentally and within my career; but taking my classics with me,”
Reason continued, “I just want to make every single Reason fan as proud as possible. From the production to the lyrics to the overall sound, I’m back in a space of full authenticity within the music; and taking it as serious as possible.”
Reason’s downturn with TDE began in August 2023, when Top Dawg Entertainment president Moosa belittled him during an episode of the Back on Figg podcast. The two got into a heated argument after Moosa called into the show to object to Reason’s album rollout frustrations. At the time, Reason also claimed label delays prevented him from securing certain features and criticized Moosa using a term Kendrick ultimately was praised for labeling Drake with during their rap battle a year later.
“This n####’s a master manipulator,” Reason said of Moosa. “I never said Doechii would make or break my career. I never said a feature would make or break my career … You’re a manipulator. You’re lying.”
Yelawolf embarked on the 51/50 Tour in 2017, shortly after a stint in a psychiatric hospital—hence the name. Manager Edward Crowe, who was Wolf’s tour photographer at the time, was along for the ride and had the chance to capture defining moments from the expansive trek through his lens.
Now, Crowe has finally executed his vision with the 51/50 Tour photography book, a dynamic peek behind the curtain of one of music’s most versatile, defiant and unique talents. Through a series of immaculate photographs, the 148-page book—published by legendary photographer Estevan Oriol’s company Joker Brand Publishing and designed by Kyro Wolf—shows the blood, sweat and tears that Yelawolf and his team put into each live performance.
“The 51/50 Tour photography book was a labor of love and an honor to have had the opportunity to be the tour photographer on this specific run, being that it was a special tour for Wolf and his personal transformation,” Crowe tells AllHipHop. “When me and Kyro were working on the book, I had no idea how we were going to bring it to life. It took us about four years working on and off when we had time, to finally get the book completed.
“One night at the Sunset Marquis in Hollywood, I showed Estevan Oriol what we were workin on and he loved it, it’s a huge honor for this book to be published by Estevan and Joker Brand Publishing.”
In many ways, Crowe’s book is also a heartfelt homage to his mother, who died in 2023.
“I’m a photographer in my spare time and a full time manager,” he says. “My mother was a photographer and I used to go trespass and climb on roofs with her to get the shot. It wasn’t until I grew up that I decided to shoot photography.
“My mother would teach me how to shoot film, I would teach her how to shoot digital and how to edit. It was something we held in common and I dedicated this book to her memory and her inspiration.”
Yelawolf added in a Facebook post, “It’s not only a book of photos, it’s a collage of hand written messages by me and the crew featuring tickets, fans, never before seen backstage antics, and it even comes with a 51/50 VIP lanyard identical to the ones we distributed during this tour.”
