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DMX’s Uncle Ray Copeland Reveals Untold X Stories, New Tell-All Interview

Uncle Ray Copeland never planned to be a power player in Hip-Hop. Before managing rap royalty like DMX and The Lox, he was a teacher, guidance counselor, and mentor shaping young lives in classrooms instead of recording studios. But fate had other plans, pulling him from lesson plans into late-night sessions, contracts, and the chaotic brilliance of Hip-Hop’s late ’90s boom.

In an emotional and unfiltered interview, Copeland—known affectionately as “Uncle Ray”—revisits his rise from educator to executive, recalling how he became one of the driving forces behind DMX’s early career and the formation of Bloodline Records. His tone is measured but weighted with memories that still sting and inspire. “I was there through the highs and lows,” he said, reflecting on the raw intensity that surrounded the late rapper. “We went through battles…industry battles, personal battles, but we always kept faith that X was chosen for something greater.”

That faith was tested often. Copeland described moments of triumph that turned to tragedy and success shadowed by the music industry’s unforgiving nature. He remembered how Ruff Ryders and Bloodline Records, two forces meant to amplify DMX’s vision, sometimes clashed over creative control and loyalty. “It wasn’t always pretty,” he admitted.

But Uncle Ray isn’t bitter, he’s reflective. Decades later, he remains a quiet guardian of DMX’s legacy. Uncle Ray Copeland wasn’t just behind the scenes, he was part of the reason why Earl Simmons made it through the treacherous shark-infested music industry. Soon, he’ll tell his complete story. For now, read a heavily condensed, edited version of our talk with Uncle Ray. Watch the video for the full conversation between Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur, DJ Thoro and Uncle Ray Copeland.

AllHipHop: For people who don’t know the name behind the scenes, who is Uncle Ray Copeland?

Uncle Ray: I’m DMX’s uncle and former manager, and I’ve worked with the LOX, Eve, Drag-On, Parlé, Yuckmouth, a bunch of Bloodline artists. Plus producers like Dame Grease and PK. Before the music business, I was a teacher and guidance counselor. I even taught inside Westchester County’s youth prison program. Styles P was actually my student before I became his manager.

AllHipHop: You said Styles was an excellent student.

Uncle Ray: Brilliant. He was close to graduating when he came into the program. I pulled his records, pushed him to finish, and he wound up getting his high school diploma and GED the same year. He damn near aced his SATs in our prep class. I used to run a Black library in that school; I handed him Manchild in the Promised Land and he ran with it, got heavy into reading. We learned from each other.

AllHipHop: Let’s go back to DMX’s earliest years. There’s been so much written.

, Uncle Ray: He told stories with drama. Some of that, he embellished. Years before he passed, he and his mother had a great relationshipbetter than the narratives out there. His sisters would say, “How did we grow up in the same house and have different stories?” Yes, he went to group homes. Yes, he caught beatings like any kid. But the more extreme parts? He made the story bigger. That was part of his gift—he could make you feel it.

AllHipHop: Early on, you noticed something unique about his mind.

Uncle Ray: On the set of Belly, he read the script once and didn’t need sides. He had a form of photographic memory. He was feeding lines to people…Terrell Hicks, even Nas. People fell in love with him right there. When he locked in, he aced it.

AllHipHop: You weren’t “industry” in the traditional sense. Did that help?

Uncle Ray: It did. I told executives straight up: if the music stopped tomorrow, I had degrees and work to go back to. I wasn’t chasing rooms to be seen. That grounded me with Earl. In the beginning, he listened to everything. When success exploded-second and third albums, BellyExit Wounds—the head swells start. That’s natural. But counseling and psychology helped me communicate and keep him moving.

AllHipHop: You’ve said the industry made him late.

Uncle Ray: He was early at first. Our first big video—LL’s “4,3,2,1”—we were there at 6 a.m. Years later, he’d show up and people would still kiss his ass. He saw that and never wanted to be the one sweating to please people who didn’t keep the same energy. He could be late and still be great; that’s how they treated him. That shaped habits.

AllHipHop: You helped negotiate the movie bag. Walk us through the Joel Silver chapter.

Uncle Ray: Barry Hankerson put us on the phone with Joel for Romeo Must Die. We were on tour. He started at $250,000. I said, it’s not the money—we have to align the schedule. He called back at $500,000. Then he called again: “$1 million. I’ll call you back.” With perks and expenses, it landed closer to $2 million. Next, Exit Wounds: Joel said, “I’m not playing with you—$5 million plus perks.” The movie recouped and did numbers with home video. Then Cradle 2 the Grave went even higher with better back-end. I also made sure I had back-end as a manager. Those deals taught me a lot.

AllHipHop: You turned down a five-picture deal later.

Uncle Ray: Correct. They’d have had first right of refusal on everything. With Earl’s volatility back then, they could’ve boxed him in. Remaining a free agent was the best thing for him. Joel later told me I did right by X.

AllHipHop: People still talk about DMX at Woodstock, sea of people and X in red overalls and Timbs.

Uncle Ray: Wild energy. They were throwing mud. He asked, “What does that mean?” I told him, “They love you.” And yeahTimbs all the time. Timberland sent him boxes and boxes, but the full endorsement never materialized after an early legal situation derailed some brand talks.

AllHipHop: Let’s talk Bloodline Records. You’ve said it was born out of a promise.

Uncle Ray: Earl was promised a percentage of Ruff Ryders. When he felt that wasn’t coming, he said, “I’ll start my own.” Lyor flew to Canada while we were filming Exit Wounds, offered an extra deal, the lawyers ran numbers, and Bloodline was born. Tension with Ruff Ryders grew because some thought X would sign himself to Bloodline. He didn’t want to leave Ruff Ryders. He wanted what he was promised and to own something of his own.

AllHipHop: Were you ever in danger during that period?

Uncle Ray: Yes. First time I got shot was an accident—Earl was paranoid, pulled a gun in a hotel lobby, I smacked it down, and the shot hit my foot. Later, in the Bloodline/RR tension, I was shot in the arm and heel outside a meeting. I jumped a seven-foot fence on adrenaline and hid until police cleared the scene. Family around me tried to keep me from walking into that situation. Lesson learned.

AllHipHop: The final days are hard to revisit, but you’ve shared details the public never had.

Uncle Ray: April 3rd—when I reached the hospital, I knew in my spirit he was gone. A doctor cousin of mine told me to ask about the contrast test to see if there was any brain activity above the neck. There wasn’t. White Plains PD hasn’t officially closed that case, last I knew. There was a delay in calling for help; every minute counts. I believe ignorance and panic played a role. It still hurts.

AllHipHop: You’ve also said you paid for the funeral when others wouldn’t.

Uncle Ray: My partners Jermaine Miller and attorney Ron Sweeney and I put up roughly $150,000 to get that funeral done right—the Barclays production, the logistics. Def Jam contributed $35,000. Kanye handled the Barclays show production. There was a lot of public flexing from institutions about “taking care of it.” We took care of it. Because that’s family.

AllHipHop: There’s a huge question around unreleased music. What’s really there?

Uncle Ray: A lot. Arizona years with Dame Grease, more recent work with Swizz, tapes and notebooks I personally have, a whole gospel album recorded during the Def Jam Undisputed era, and even a rock-arranged project of his early hits that Rich Keller mocked up from the first two albums—never released. The vault is deep. But anything new needs a purpose and a plan, or it’ll meet the same fate as the last posthumous album, which wasn’t sequenced how Earl wanted.

AllHipHop: Does Def Jam still control that gospel album?

Uncle Ray: Most likely, yes, because of when it was recorded. Other music is scattered between producers and the estate.

AllHipHop: You’ve been adamant about publishing. That’s not a small point.

Uncle Ray: From early on, I broke down publishing to Earl like this: the label prints the book, but the words are yours. Why give up 50% forever? We structured his deal so that with success benchmarks—platinum tiers—parts of his publishing reverted back to him. He wound up owning 50% of his publishing. Universal once offered $107 million to buy it. We said no. We did admin deals instead. That matters for his kids and his estate.

AllHipHop: The estate is healthy?

Uncle Ray: The catalog prints. Syncs, films, global streams—DMX’s music works everywhere. Producers can exploit their share while the estate signs off on its side. Money’s there. But life insurance? No. That’s why relationships and real friends mattered so much during arrangements.

AllHipHop: How were Jay-Z and X, really?

Uncle Ray: Great at first. When Jay became Def Jam president, friction came—Earl didn’t want to take orders from an artist he viewed as a peer or rival. Jay told me in the building: if X wants to leave, he can leave, debt-free. That was huge. But there was a clause—if he returned to the Universal system, that debt could re-attach. Later, he did come back. That clause mattered.

AllHipHop: X vs. Drake – he really seemed to dislike Drake.

Uncle Ray: Early on, Earl didn’t feel Drake was a “dog.” Add in the Aaliyah a cappella situation without the right calls being made—X loved Aaliyah—that was extra. But later they made peace.

AllHipHop: Faith was central to his art. The prayers are part of his legend. Where did that come from?

Uncle Ray: My sister raised Earl with Jehovah’s Witness discipline, and his grandmother had a deep relationship with God. He knew the Bible front to back, read the dictionary, too. The prayers weren’t a gimmick. He always said, “God gave me this; I have to give it back.” The darker songs—“Damien,” the Marilyn Manson joint—were him wrestling his demons in public.

AllHipHop: You mentioned X’s kids and privacy.

Uncle Ray: Earl wanted his children to be Earl’s kids, not “DMX’s kids” on display. He broke cycles—suburbs, good schools, smart friends. They’re tech-minded, creative, thinking beyond thinking. That’s a win.

AllHipHop: With AI and new tech, could there be a tasteful future “DMX experience”?

Uncle Ray: Possibly—if it’s done with the right people, real budget, and the estate’s full buy-in. Don’t just dump tracks. Honor the sequencing, the narrative, the prayer. Make it purposeful.

AllHipHop: What do people misunderstand most about you—and about X?

Uncle Ray: People thought I was made up because I didn’t chase cameras. But every multi-platinum album in that early run, the movies, major TV—those deals were under me. As for Earl—he was a genius with a photographic mind and a giant heart. The industry distorted some habits, and the storytelling added layers to his origin. But the faith, the fight, the love—all real.

AllHipHop: Last thing: If you could freeze one truth in the record for historians, what is it?

Uncle Ray: That we did this as family first. When he died, the phone calls I made to “the industry” didn’t bring the help they bragged about in public. Family made it happen. And on the music side, protect the publishing and purpose. That’s how you take care of his legacy and his kids.

AllHipHop: What’s next for you?

Uncle Ray: This is my first real interview. A book is coming—I kept journals my whole life. And I’m circling back to the film world. When I’m ready, you’ll get the exclusive.

AllHipHop: We appreciate it. Thank you for doing this with us.

Geto Boys MC Bushwick Bill & Son Usher In Sid Wilson’s Label With “Take It Back”

Slipknot turntablist Sid Wilson has launched a new label, Vomit Face Records, debuting with “Take It Back,” a genre-blending single by Houston rapper Lil Bushwick that features unreleased vocals from his late father, Geto Boys legend Bushwick Bill. The track, co-produced by DJ Lethal of House of Pain and Limp Bizkit fame, merges raw Hip-Hop storytelling with punk and industrial elements.

“Bushwick Bill and I had made a promise to each other to make an album,” Wilson said. “After several roadblocks in scheduling, Bill sadly, and unfortunately, passed away due to illness most were unaware of. In meeting his son and discovering that he too was a music artist, I made a promise to the spirit of the great Bushwick, that I would fulfill our pact by producing an album for his son.

“We did just that, and through the help of a dear friend DJ Lethal, we were able to add an unreleased track of Bill’s, and I’m proud to say, we made the impossible possible for this iconic Hip-Hop lineage of father and son.”

Lil Bushwick, who follows in his father’s footsteps with his debut album due out October 31, reflected on the personal significance of the collaboration.

“Being able to collaborate with my pops six years after his passing brings me a different type of joy,” he said. “Hearing his voice again speaking life and expressing himself just as I remembered takes me back to the simpler times. I know he’d be proud of how I approached each verse my own way. He was always big on being yourself and I’ll forever be that. Long live Chuckwick 4L.”

Bushwick Bill, born Richard Shaw, died in June 2019 at age 52 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. As a member of the pioneering Southern rap group Geto Boys, he helped shape Houston’s hip-hop identity with vivid storytelling and unflinching realism. His legacy—marked by hits like “Mind Playing Tricks on Me”—continues to influence generations of rappers, including his son.

Wilson described Vomit Face Records as a haven for outliers and innovators, welcoming artists who reject convention. The label’s roster includes Lil Bushwick, J57, DEAD X HEDZ, Rome Fortune, Ricardo Grimm and Mars Black (whose DJ is Omaha-based producer Ebabbs).

“Vomit Face Records is about tearing down the walls,” Wilson said. “This is for the artists who don’t fit in and never wanted to. It’s rebels in motion that unapologetically stand out. It’s to celebrate imperfection, people making real art out of the mess in a world that rewards fake.”

Lil Bushwick’s self-titled album opens with his father’s iconic line, “This year Halloween fell on a weekend,” from the Geto Boys’ 1991 classic “Mind Playing Tricks on Me.” The project explores grief, legacy and personal evolution through a mix of Houston Hip-Hop and experimental hardcore production.

“This project shows my diversity as an artist,” Lil Bushwick said. “It pushes the envelope musically and experiments with sounds I never thought I’d rap on. It takes you through every emotion and brings you into the mind & life of Bushwick.”

50 Cent Mocks Brandy After Her Abrupt Exit From Chicago Concert

50 Cent wasted no time poking fun at Brandy after she abruptly left the stage during her performance in Chicago, using Instagram to deliver a crude joke at her expense.

The Hip-Hop mogul posted a clip Monday morning (October 19) showing Brandy walking offstage at the United Center, where she had been performing alongside Monica on their “The Boy Is Mine” tour.

“she just walked off the stage, ain’t nothing wrong with that mic,” he wrote in the caption. “She said my stomach upset, gotta go sh!t good night ! LOL.”

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Brandy’s unexpected exit on Saturday night (October 18) left the crowd confused.

She paused mid-performance and told the audience, “Give me one second, y’all, I gotta get my—” before walking off and never returning. Monica finished the set solo.

The following night, Brandy reappeared in Indianapolis at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, where she and Monica performed their 1998 hit “The Boy Is Mine” to a warm reception.

In a statement posted to Instagram, Brandy explained what happened in Chicago.

“I sincerely apologize for the abrupt end to last night’s performance in Chicago,” she wrote. “After weeks of nonstop rehearsals, last night I experienced dehydration and feelings of wanting to faint. Everyone involved agreed that prioritizing my well-being was of the utmost importance.”

Brandy said she initially tried to return to the stage, but technical issues made it impossible to continue. She also thanked Monica for stepping up in her absence.

The 46-year-old singer added that she received medical attention after the show and has taken steps to ensure she can complete the rest of the tour.

“I look forward to returning to the stage—stronger and more grateful than ever—alongside my girl, Monica,” she said.

Instagram/Brandy

Lil Baby Welcomes HoodRich Pablo Juan Home After Serving Five-Year RICO Sentence

Lil Baby linked up with HoodRich Pablo Juan who walked out of prison this weekend after serving five years of a 15-year RICO sentence tied to gang-related activity and drug trafficking in Georgia.

The 35-year-old rapper was arrested in October 2020 and later accepted a plea deal in December 2022.

The agreement sentenced him to 15 years, with five served behind bars and the remaining 10 to be carried out on probation.

Video shows Lil Baby reuniting with his former collaborator HoodRich Pablo Juan in the studio Sunday night (October 19).

Footage circulating online showed Juan reuniting with friends shortly after his release. Supporters flooded social media with messages, many of them celebrating the long-awaited moment.

Juan returned to social media Sunday (October 19) to post a selfie, captioned simply, “Back.”

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Well-wishers flooded the comments, including Killer Mike, who wrote “Welcome Home.”

Before his legal troubles, HoodRich Pablo Juan had signed with Gucci Mane’s 1017 Records, a move that positioned him as one of Atlanta’s rising Hip-Hop voices.

His breakout track “We Don’t Luv Em” earned him a solid following, and he continued releasing music even while incarcerated. His 2021 mixtape “Free Hood” dropped while he was still behind bars.

The rapper’s case is one of several that have hit the Atlanta rap scene in recent years.

Multiple artists affiliated with 1017 Records have faced serious legal issues, adding to the scrutiny surrounding the label and its connections to street activity.

Juan’s legal team has not released a statement, and no plans for new music have been confirmed.

His last major project, “Designer Dope Boyz,” featured appearances from Young Thug and Gunna.

He will now serve the remaining 10 years of his sentence under probation.

Melyssa Ford Disappeared Off Joe Budden’s Podcast—Here’s What Might Have Happened

Melyssa Ford, Joe Budden and the Great Podcast Disappearing Act

Melyssa Ford has officially vanished from The Joe Budden Podcast and this time, it looks permanent. After weeks of silence, speculation, and “she’ll be back soon” optimism, Ford’s name has been scrubbed from the show’s intro. The woman who added balance, poise and intellect to Joe’s organized chaos has now been edited out. DAMN.

Listeners picked up on it instantly. The latest episode dropped and Melyssa’s name was nowhere to be heard. Co-host Ish, who also missed the episode, was still included in the opening credits. So, if this was just a “break,” why remove Melyssa entirely?

One major theory circulating online points to a lawsuit involving Joe Budden and his neighbors. According to a detailed post by a user Melyssa Ford may have been dodging court papers. The claim is that the neighbors have been trying to serve her but can’t find her home address. They allegedly attempted to serve her at the Joe Budden Podcast studio. Now, there’s reportedly a court date set for October 24 where the plaintiffs are seeking permission to officially serve her through The Joe Budden Network LLC. If true, that could explain why Melyssa has avoided appearing on set and why the show itself is staying quiet. Hmm…

But it doesn’t stop there. Another layer involves Melyssa’s on-air comments back in December 2024, when she allegedly made a “threatening remark” about her upstairs neighbor. That comment may have found its way into the legal filings, with some speculating that it’s part of a broader terroristic threat claim. If legal counsel advised her to stay away from the podcast while that plays out, it might explain her radio silence. Maybe.

Then there’s the Flip factor. Many fans believe Melyssa’s fallout stems from tension with co-host QueenzFlip, who just got in it with another co-host. Rumor has it she once asked Joe to “make a choice” — her or Flip — and Joe stood by his longtime ally. (By the way, that may have changed recently.) Whatever happened behind the scenes, viewers noticed the energy shift. Their early “brother-sister” act soured quickly, with visible discomfort whenever they shared the mic. “She finds Flip disgusting,” one fan observed.

And that mysterious group chat the cast joked about? Another clue. Flip made comments on-air about “someone who only drops a heart emoji” when the group talks. That was seen as a jab at Melyssa. Something inside the pod’s dynamic seems broke beyond repair.

Still, Ford’s been visible elsewhere. She’s popped up in media spaces, including interviews with Hip Politics, and was rumored to appear at Culture Con. She is probably pivoting toward new lanes that don’t involve the Budden circus.

Meanwhile, Joe’s show seems to be in another transitional storm. Flip’s arguing with Joe, Ish’s involvement is inconsistent, and even Parks and Ice have shown signs of fatigue. As for Melyssa? Whether she left voluntarily or under legal advisement, her exit leaves a noticeable void.

If she does return, it’ll likely be after that October 24 court date. Is the Melyssa Ford era of the Joe Budden Podcast over? Only time will tell.

NBA YoungBoy Carried Away By Police After Getting Swarmed By Wild New Orleans Crowd

NBA YoungBoy was physically escorted by police through a chaotic crowd in New Orleans after a packed show at the Smoothie King Center on Sunday (October 19), where overwhelmed security and a lack of personal bodyguards left him vulnerable post-performance.

The New Orleans Police Department deployed more than 400 officers to manage the high turnout for the rapper’s MASA Tour stop, implementing a no-bag policy and urging concertgoers to leave firearms at home.

Despite the precautions, the scene outside the venue quickly turned into a frenzy as supporters swarmed the 26-year-old artist.

Video clips posted online show officers lifting a visibly hesitant YoungBoy and carrying him to a waiting vehicle.

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The rapper, who did not appear to have private security on hand, has not issued any public statement about the incident. His team has also remained silent.

NOPD Deputy Chief Hans Ganthier addressed public safety concerns ahead of the event, warning attendees about the risks of bringing guns to the venue.

“Not only that, you can’t bring them with you, so that means you’re going to leave them in your car,” Ganthier said. “And if you do that, you become a victim of a car burglary, where your gun will be missing.”

The New Orleans stop is one of several turbulent dates on YoungBoy’s tour.

His September show at Chicago’s United Center was abruptly canceled two days before the event without explanation. Attendees received automatic refunds.

In Atlanta, his October 18 concert at State Farm Arena was also called off after a sold-out performance on October 15.

That cancellation didn’t stop crowds from gathering. Footage surfaced of massive groups staging an impromptu celebration outside Mercedes-Benz Stadium the following day.

YoungBoy is scheduled to return to the Smoothie King Center for a second performance on October 20.

Ex-NFL Star Doug Martin Dies Suddenly In Police Custody After Medical Emergency

Former NFL star Doug Martin died early Saturday (October 18) after collapsing in Oakland police custody during an arrest tied to a reported break-in and medical call, authorities said.

Oakland officers responded to a 911 call around 4:15 A.M. about a possible burglary and a person in medical distress at a residence on Ettrick Street, according to KTVU.

When they arrived, they found the former NFL running back inside the home.

Police said Martin resisted briefly as officers attempted to detain him. After being taken into custody, he became unresponsive. Paramedics transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

“It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning,” his family said in a statement. “Cause of death is currently unconfirmed. Please respect our privacy at this time.”

The Oakland Police Department’s Homicide Section and Internal Affairs Bureau have launched investigations into the incident.

Additional reviews are being conducted by the Oakland City Police Commission, the Community Police Review Agency and the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office.

The officers involved have been placed on paid administrative leave while the investigation continues.

Martin, 36, was a first-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, selected 31st overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

A native of Stockton, California, and a standout at Boise State, he earned the nickname “Muscle Hamster” for his compact frame and aggressive running style.

He spent six seasons with the Buccaneers before finishing his career with the Oakland Raiders in 2018.

Bhad Bhabie Announces She’s Single After Ditching Boyfriend She Accused Of Abuse

Bhad Bhabie announced she’s single after ending her relationship with LeVaughn, the father of her child, and is focused on turning her life around. 

The rapper and model made the revelation on Instagram Sunday night (October 19), revealing she is moving on. 

According to Bhad Bhabie, the bags have been rolling in since leaving LeVaugh.

“Left that man got a bigger house,” she wrote. “Signed a check , got sent another one.” 

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However, Bhabie also had another announcement. After dropping new song “Honest” on Saturday (October 18), Bhabie teased a new song with St. Louis rapper ian.  

“Me an Ian dropping,” she tweeted over the weekend. “He got me in the album.”

“Honest” sees Bhabie reflect on her upbringing, her complicated relationship with her parents and her cancer battle.  

On Sunday (October 19), Bhad Bhabie shared a music video for “Honest Pt. 1 featuring her now ex-boyfriend LeVaughn.  

Bhad Bhabie – Honest Pt. 1

“Honest part 1 was filmed months ago,” she revealed. “I’m dropping part two to it this week.” 

Bhad Bhabie and LeVaughn, who began dating around 2020, have had a turbulent relationship. Earlier this month, the 22-year-old sparked renewed concern over the relationship after sharing a video of a tense confrontation between them. 

The footage, uploaded to her YouTube channel as part of her new vlog series, shows the former couple arguing in a parking lot outside a tour bus during stops in Washington and Portland. Bhabie appears hysterical, pleading in pajamas for LeVaughn to get back on the bus while he refuses. 

The confrontation follows a history of alleged domestic abuse, including claims of physical violence. In 2024, Bhad Bhabie posted footage showing incidents where LeVaughn allegedly pushed her down and restrained her. 

In a tearful video posted in September, she claimed LeVaughn had hit her over 500 times, spat on her, and even caused a miscarriage through physical abuse. 

Lil Durk Shares New Music From Jail To Celebrate 33rd Birthday

Lil Durk may be behind bars on murder-for-hire charges, but that didn’t stop him from sharing new music with his fans to celebrate his birthday, posting a snippet seemingly recorded during a jailhouse call.

The incarcerated rapper, who turned 33 on Sunday (October 19), shared a message with his fans on social media, thanking supporters for sticking by him.

“I don’t have all the words, but I’m thankful to still have a voice,” he began. “Thankful for everyone who stood on love when things got heavy. I’m working on myself, working on peace, and hoping the city feels that too.”

In the snippet, Durk raps: “Who you depend on?/If you need some, who can you bend on?/Ask your b####, is she really puttin’ n##### in the friendzone?”

Earlier this month, Lil Durk asked a federal judge to dismiss his murder-for-hire charges or compel prosecutors to provide more detailed evidence.

His attorneys argue the indictment is too vague — while it accuses him of directing co-conspirators to fly to Los Angeles, stalk, and kill a target known as “T.B.,” it fails to specify when, where, how, or to whom he allegedly gave those orders.

Prosecutors claim Durk offered “lucrative music opportunities” and placed a bounty on T.B., but the defense says the government hasn’t identified what offers were made, who received them, or what “coded” communications supposedly took place.

The shooting in question allegedly led to the death of Saviay’a Robinson, known as Lul Pab, a cousin of rapper Quando Rondo.

Durk’s team maintains there’s no evidence he physically participated in or directly communicated with anyone involved in the attack.

He was arrested in October 2024 near Miami International Airport and remains in federal custody. A hearing on the defense motion is set for November 18.

Lil Durk Promises To “Lead By Example”

Meanwhile, another jailhouse call recording, allegedly of Lil Durk, surfaced online over the weekend. In the audio, Durk says, “I’m doing better, man. We all get second chances.” He also vows to “lead by example” once he is released.

Steve Rifkind Denies Def Jam & Swizz Beatz Refused To Pay DMX’s Funeral Expenses

Steve Rifkind is hitting back at recent claims surrounding DMX’s funeral expenses after the late rapper’s longtime manager and uncle, Ray Copeland, claimed he had to personally marshal funds because major artists and industry figures declined to contribute.

The music executive set the record straight on social media over the weekend, denying that Def Jam and Swizz Beatz refused to cover the expenses.

“I was there every step of the way,” Rifkind stated. “I was his manager at the time. So, for the record, Swizz paid 80% of the funeral. Def Jam paid for the funeral.”

According to Rifkind, a third person also contributed but wanted to remain anonymous. He added that Swizz Beatz continues to support DMX’s family but would never speak on it publicly.

“I knew he wasn’t going to say anything,” he added. “It needs to be said that he was there every step of the way and orchestrated the most beautiful funeral at Barclays.”

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During an exclusive interview with AllHipHop, Copeland claimed that he contacted parties like Ruff Ryders, Swizz Beatz, Steve Rifkind, and Def Jam to ask for help, but was told they “didn’t have it.”

He claimed that although he did receive help later, it did not cover everything.

“Def Jam [later] gave me $35,000 — that’s it,” Copeland said. “They later told the media they paid for the funeral. That’s not true. Kanye West took care of everything at the Barclays Center.”

Copeland insisted that he, business associate Germaine Miller, and attorney Ron Sweeney personally covered the $150,000 cost of DMX’s funeral.

Addressing Copeland directly, Rifkind continued, “I don’t know why you’re saying something like this, but just tell the truth. Def Jam paid something, Swizz paid something, and the third person paid something.”

Blueface Hit With Royalty Seizure Request Over $125K Defamation Judgment

Blueface is facing a new legal push in Los Angeles where attorneys for a woman who won a $125,000 defamation judgment against the jailed rapper are asking a judge to redirect his music royalties to satisfy the debt.

Jackilyn Martinez, who sued the California rapper—real name Johnathan Jamall Porter—in December 2023, filed a motion Thursday (October 16) asking Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Peter Hernandez to assign royalties from BMI and the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers. The two organizations collect performance royalties on behalf of artists like Blueface.

Martinez’s legal move comes as Porter serves a four-year sentence at North Kern State Prison for violating probation tied to a 2021 assault case. She alleges the 28-year-old “Thotiana” rapper defamed her online by implying that Soulja Boy’s toddler might actually be his son.

“As a result of Porter’s wrongful conduct and the defamatory statements, I have and continue to suffer severe emotional and mental distress, including depression, anxiety, panic attacks (and) crying spells,” Martinez wrote in court documents.

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After Porter failed to respond to the lawsuit, Judge Hernandez granted a default judgment in April totaling $123,245, which included $100,000 for pain and suffering. With interest, the amount has since grown to $129,150, according to a declaration from her attorney Michael Berke.

Martinez initially sought $10 million in damages, but the judge declined to award punitive damages in the defamation case.

The royalty seizure request is the latest financial blow for Porter, who was also ordered by a Nevada judge to pay $13 million to Euphoric Gentlemen’s Club in Las Vegas. That judgment stems from an October 2022 shooting outside the venue, which led to its permanent closure. The payout includes $12.6 million in lost business revenue, $198,000 in property damages and $84,000 in payroll costs. An additional $1 million in interest was later added to the total.

Martinez, who is the mother of the child at the center of the online paternity claim, stated in court filings that she has not had a relationship with Porter since 2018. The defamatory posts were allegedly made on his social media accounts.

Porter’s legal troubles began escalating in 2021 when he was convicted of assault for attacking a security guard at a North Hollywood venue. He was sentenced to probation but ended up behind bars in January 2024 after failing to comply with its terms. His four-year sentence was handed down in August.

Martinez’s attorneys argue that assigning the rapper’s royalties is necessary because he has not made any effort to pay the court-ordered amount. A hearing on the motion is scheduled for December 9.

Porter’s music catalog, which includes collaborations and viral hits, remains a potential source of income that could be tapped to satisfy his growing legal debts.

His representatives have not responded to inquiries regarding the pending motion.

Cardi B Criticizes Trump Over Food Stamp Cuts Ahead Of Thanksgiving

Cardi B voiced sharp criticism of the Trump administration’s food assistance policies during a Saturday (October 18) Twitter Spaces session. She warned that families may struggle to afford Thanksgiving meals due to recent cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

“People are complaining that they have taken away food stamps,” the Grammy-winning artist said. “Thanksgiving is next month, no turkey for some of y’all.”

The Bronx native reminded listeners about her previous warnings during her campaign support for Vice President Kamala Harris.

“These are the type of things I was trying to tell y’all about when I was talking about the Trump administration,” she stated. “But all y’all cared about was me saying ‘Shrump.'”

Cardi B’s comments come as millions of Americans face potential loss of food assistance benefits.

The Trump administration’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025” cut approximately $186 billion from SNAP funding through 2034, according to Congressional Budget Office estimates.

The legislation tightened work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents.

Starting in late 2025, many low-income adults will lose SNAP eligibility. The changes affect nearly 3 million young adults nationwide.

About 20 states will see their waivers end on November 2, 2025, potentially affecting thousands of families.

States with SNAP error rates above 6% will lose federal funding beginning in fiscal year 2028.

Food assistance advocates warn that SNAP cuts will significantly impact families and the broader economy. State officials describe potential benefit pauses as devastating for vulnerable populations.

The timing of Cardi B’s criticism coincides with rising food costs and economic uncertainty. Many families rely on SNAP benefits to supplement their grocery budgets, especially during holiday seasons.

The rapper also criticized tariffs that drive up prices for both luxury and everyday items. She emphasized that working-class families bear the burden when public programs face cuts.

Cardi B actively campaigned for Harris during the 2024 presidential election. She spoke at a Milwaukee rally in November, describing Trump as a “bully” and expressing her initial reluctance to vote before Harris changed her mind.

“I wasn’t going to vote, but Kamala changed my mind,” she said at the Wisconsin event. The rapper wore an all-white outfit while delivering her endorsement speech.

Nas Declares Hip-Hop Alive Again Thanks To Kendrick Lamar & Clipse

Nas called it dead in 2006, but now the Queensbridge icon is praising Kendrick Lamar and Clipse for reviving Hip-Hop in 2025 with chart-topping releases and renewed energy across the genre.

In a recent sit-down with Complex, the Grammy-winning MC reflected on the current state of rap, pointing to Lamar’s explosive year and Clipse’s long-awaited return as proof that the genre is thriving.

“I used to say [that] Hip-Hop is dead. It is kind of dead, but we have to think about it, in a sense, like that,” Nas said. “Because if you think about it, this year is really incredible. I mean, Kendrick’s been on a roll, Clipse cooking, Legend Has It [series], Mass Appeal.”

Nas specifically praised Kendrick’s recent run, marked by the viral hit “Not Like Us” and his critically acclaimed album GNX.

Meanwhile, Clipse’s comeback project Let God Sort Em Out, their first full-length release in 16 years, has stirred excitement across the industry.

Both albums are expected to land nominations for Best Rap Album at the 2026 Grammy Awards, signaling a broader shift in the genre’s momentum.

But Nas didn’t stop at the veterans. He also gave props to the next generation and women in Hip-Hop for keeping the culture alive and evolving.

“All the younger dudes and the females, all of the females, it’s like Hip-Hop is really alive too,” he added. “So, you have the part that’s, that can threaten it, you know, the ignorance — the stuff that’s really, it doesn’t evolve… or it gets too violent — you know, you got the things that can threaten it… But then you also have everything that’s happening this year, too, so it’s a balance.”

Nas released Hip Hop Is Dead in December 2006 under Def Jam, marking his first project after leaving Columbia Records. The title track, which featured will.i.am, sparked debate over the genre’s direction and longevity.

Now, nearly 20 years later, the “Illmatic” legend says Hip-Hop is here to stay.

“I think rap is timeless, and yeah, Hip-Hop is timeless,” Nas said. “Hip-Hop keeps reinventing itself. It keeps staying current even if it’s a certain artist that’s not doing it no more. The art form in itself will find a new person to keep pushing it.”

Brandy Explains Why She Left Monica Hanging On Stage During Chicago Tour Stop

Brandy cut her Chicago performance short during The Boy Is Mine Tour Saturday night (October 18) due to a sudden health scare that forced her offstage before the show’s signature duet.

The R&B star left the crowd stunned when she exited the stage before performing “The Boy Is Mine” with Monica, their chart-topping 1998 hit that spent 13 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The abrupt departure came without warning, leaving concertgoers confused and concerned.

On Sunday (October 19), Brandy addressed the incident in a statement posted to social media, revealing that a medical issue led to her early exit.

“To my dear fans in Chicago,” she wrote. “Thank you all for the overwhelming love, support, and, most importantly, your prayers. I sincerely apologize for the abrupt end to last night’s performance in Chicago. After weeks of non-stop rehearsals, last night I experienced dehydration and feelings of wanting to faint. Everyone involved agreed that prioritizing my well-being was of the utmost importance.”

She also praised Monica for stepping in without hesitation.

“I’m deeply grateful to my sister, Monica, for stepping up with such grace and professionalism and the entire crew for their continued care and support… I look forward to returning to the stage, stronger and more grateful than ever, alongside my girl tonight.”

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The tour, which brings together two of the most celebrated voices in Hip-Hop and R&B;, continues through December 14. The pair’s reunion on stage has been a nostalgic draw for longtime listeners, especially those who remember the original release of “The Boy Is Mine” during the late ’90s.

Brandy’s health update comes amid a demanding tour schedule packed with rehearsals and back-to-back performances. Health-related exits mid-show are rare for the seasoned performer, making Saturday’s moment all the more concerning for those in attendance.

According to NBC News, https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/brandy-hospitalized-after-possible-seizure-rcna51773), Brandy has previously dealt with health concerns, including a hospitalization in 2022 after losing consciousness. Though she recovered quickly, the incident highlighted the physical toll of her profession.

Brandy is expected to rejoin Monica on stage for the next scheduled performance.

The Boy Is Mine Tour wraps up December 14.

 

French Montana Wins Major Copyright Battle In 7th Circuit Court

French Montana walked away with a courtroom win and his platinum plaque intact after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit tossed out a copyright infringement lawsuit tied to his 2013 single “Ain’t Worried About Nothin’.”

The legal dispute, filed by musician Eddie Richardson, accused the Bronx rapper of lifting elements from an instrumental Hip-Hop track without permission.

Richardson claimed French Montana’s team copied his composition, pointing to the use of “deep percussion, rhythmic snare” patterns that he believed were taken directly from his work.

But the appellate judges weren’t convinced. The court sided with Montana, stating there wasn’t enough evidence to show the rapper “duplicated the work as opposed to merely imitating it.”

That distinction proved critical, as copyright law requires a higher burden of proof for actual copying versus coincidental resemblance.

The court also noted that the musical elements Richardson cited were too generic to qualify for protection. Familiar sounds in Hip-Hop production, the judges concluded, can’t be locked down by a single artist.

“Ain’t Worried About Nothin’” was the lead single off Montana’s debut album, Excuse My French and it made a solid impact on the charts, peaking at No. 63 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It later earned platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America.

‘Call a Lyft’: Customer orders Uber. Then her Starbucks barista warns her the driver is running a scam

A woman is confused after the Uber she ordered never arrives. Then her Starbucks barista lets her know it could be a scam.

TikTok user Jess Renee (@organizedhumanllc) posted a series of videos about her experience on Aug. 28. “I am literally in a stand-off with an Uber driver and I don’t know what to do,” she says to start the video, which has since amassed more than 940k views.

“I called an Uber at like 2:40. It said it would be there in three minutes,” she explains. “Three minutes goes by; it says one minute. Three minutes goes by; it says one minute. Now I’m getting a little confused.”

So she contacts the driver eight minutes into her wait. “I’m like, ‘Hey, is everything good? It says that you are one minute away, but it’s been like eight,’” she says. “It’s now 3:26 and he still hasn’t canceled.”

Starbucks Barista Airs Out Uber Scam

Jess Renee went to the nearby Starbucks to wait for her ride. That’s when the barista told her that this is actually a common scam.

Uber lists this as one of the fraudulent activities that can get drivers banned from the app. The rules prohibit drivers from accepting fares that they don’t intend to complete or cancel. Drivers do this because the customer canceling puts the driver in a position to claim a cancellation fee.

“So now we’re at the point where we’d rather sit around and risk making money to possibly make money by scamming people who need rides?” she asks. “Also, tell me if I should cancel because I don’t know if I’m being stupid.”

She ends the video by promising her Uber driver she is willing to wait him out. “Sir, you messed with the wrong chick,” she says.

Shortly after she posted the first video, Jess Renee received a notification that a new Uber was on the way. “That means he canceled,” she says in a triumphant follow-up video.

Viewers React to the Uber Stand-Off

This is obviously not an uncommon experience for Uber passengers. In the comments, viewers who’ve been in similar situations told their stories and offered advice. 

“This happened to me one time and he spent almost two hours driving around and I didn’t cancel,” one person wrote. “I just kept calling him and asking him if he was lost. He ended up picking me up and he was not happy about it. And I reported him.”

Several other users backed up that sentiment. “Order a Lyft and leave the Uber up,” one person wrote. “Don’t cancel.”

There could be non-nefarious reasons for this incident. In a Reddit thread posted to r/Uber two years ago, a person offered an explanation. “The driver is probably multi-apping,” they wrote. “They went and did a DoorDash order instead of picking you up. One good thing to know is that you can always cancel an Uber ride up to two minutes without paying any cancellation fee. So if you have a driver that accepts a ride, and just keeps driving the opposite way for several blocks, cancel right away and re-book for a new driver.”

All Hip Hop contacted Jess Renee via TikTok comment and direct message for comment. We also contacted Uber via email for comment.

@organizedhumanllc I’m stuck in a standoff with my Uber driver right now. It’s been over 40 minutes, and they still haven’t picked me up or canceled. I won’t cancel!! Scammers messed with the wrong women! What would you do in this situation?#scam #uber #ubers #standoff #cancel ♬ original sound – Jess Renee

Master P, Shaq Rally New Orleans Community For Emotional Hurricane Katrina Recovery

Master P rallied the New Orleans community Saturday for a charity basketball scrimmage at the University of New Orleans, aiming to raise funds for a new Jumbotron to replace equipment lost during Hurricane Katrina.

The Hip-Hop mogul, who has served as UNO’s President of Basketball Operations since February 2025, partnered with NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal to organize the exhibition game.

The matchup featured UNO’s basketball team against Sacramento State University, which includes Shaq’s son on the roster.

Master P has transformed his role from music industry titan to collegiate basketball executive.

The New Orleans native played collegiately at both the University of Houston and Merritt College in Oakland, California, where he earned a business degree before launching his entertainment empire.

“This is gonna be our first game. Our first test. We are just going to keep getting better and better from here. When we put that New Orleans on our jersey. We are representing the city of New Orleans. We can compete with anyone, but we still need more help. I am encouraging businesses to come out. Step up and come out with us,” Master P told WDSU.

The charity scrimmage represents Master P’s broader vision to revitalize UNO’s basketball program.

Since accepting his position as President of Basketball Operations, he has worked to recruit talent and build partnerships with high-profile figures in sports and entertainment.

The university’s Jumbotron was among the casualties of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, leaving the athletic program without this essential piece of equipment for nearly two decades.

Master P’s fundraising efforts aim to modernize the facility and enhance the game-day experience for fans and players.

UNO’s official regular season begins in November, marking the No Limit mogul’s first full season in his executive role.

The Privateers compete in Division I basketball and represent a significant opportunity for Miller to apply his business acumen to collegiate athletics.

‘I asked to look at her fuel gauge’: Woman asks man at gas station for $5 to refill her Ford 350. Then he catches her turn into a Quik Trip once she leaves the Phillips 66

After a long day of work, a man is approached at a Phillips 66 gas station by a woman who claims to need just $5 in diesel fuel to get home. He helps her without hesitation—until he sees her attempting to pull the same maneuver at the QuikTrip next door.

Ryan Baker (@cumminsdezl8585) told the story in a TikTok video posted on Sep. 28. In the video, Baker says, “So this evening before I came home I’m stopping to get fuel for my truck. I’m sitting at the diesel island, and this lady walks over with her daughter who is probably about 3 years old. And she asks if I’d be kind enough to spare five or 10 bucks to put diesel in her Ford F-350. She left her wallet at home. She doesn’t have enough diesel to get back to the house.”

Woman Asks Man to Put $5 of Diesel In Her Ford F-350

“Me being the kind person I am, I said, ‘No big deal,’” he says. But his agreement came with a catch. First, Baker asked the woman to turn on her truck so he could confirm that she was in fact low on fuel and he wasn’t the target of a scam

She obliged him and he confirmed that she had about an eighth of a tank of gas. He decided to put $15 of diesel in the truck to get her on her way.

That should’ve been the end of the interaction, but unfortunately it continued. Baker filled up his own tank, but noticed something interesting as he prepared to leave the gas station. Instead of heading home, the woman drove over to a nearby QuikTrip station and parked at a diesel pump there. 

Immediately, Baker realized what was going on. “In my mind, I’m like, ‘She’s trying to scam people to get them to fill up her tank,’” he says.

Man Foils QuikTrip Diesel Scam

Baker followed the woman to the QuikTrip. When she noticed him, he says, she took off and went back to the original Phillips 66 station. That’s when he decided to involve the cashier in the situation.

After he explained his suspicions to the Phillips 66 employee, Baker went back outside and saw the woman approaching another driver. “I ask the guy, ‘Is she trying to tell you that she doesn’t have her wallet and she just needs $5 to $10 of diesel to get home?’” Baker says.

The man confirmed that was exactly what happened. “I just looked at her [and said], ‘Ma’am, I was trying to do a good deed and just be a good person and help you and your daughter out. But what you’re doing is really [expletive] and you’re taking advantage of people.’”

How the QuikTrip Diesel Scam Ended

Threatened with the police, the woman got back into her Ford F-350 and drove away. “In my mind, it left such a bitter taste in my mouth,” he says. “People wonder why a lot of people don’t want to help people out. Why people are so jaded and cold-hearted? Things like this are why.”

While Baker says he will not become that way, he will in the future be a bit more discerning when he does help strangers.

In the comments section, viewers agreed that people that scam make the world a more difficult place for everyone. “This is the reason why people don’t want to help anyone,” one person said.

Another person suggested the Ford F-350 should’ve been an indication that she wasn’t in need. “If she can afford an F-350, she can afford gas,” they wrote.

A Reddit user on this thread posted to r/GNV a few years ago called it the “oldest scam in the book.” However, sometimes people really just do need help. On another Reddit thread, a person said they were suspicious after being approached at a pump for help late at night, but they soon learned the person had a language barrier and couldn’t figure out how to work the interface.

All Hip Hop contacted Baker via TikTok comment and direct message for comment. We also contacted QuikTrip via email for comment.

@cumminsdezl8585 Just be a good person! #overwatch #stayvigilant #beagoodperson #dontbeapos #dobetteryall ♬ original sound – Ryan Baker

Timbaland Returns To School Greeted By Roaring Crowd

Timbaland lit up Salem High School’s gym with nostalgia and pride Friday morning as 1,700 students packed the bleachers to celebrate the Virginia Beach native’s return and the city’s decision to rename a street in his honor.

The Hip-Hop icon kicked off “Timbaland Way Weekend” with a pep rally that doubled as a tribute to his legacy.

The four-time Grammy winner was greeted with cheers, flashing phone lights and a custom black and scarlet letterman jacket presented by Principal Carey Manugo.

The event marked Timbaland’s first visit back to his alma mater since becoming one of the most influential producers in music.

At 10 A.M., students were allowed to break the school’s cellphone policy and light up the darkened gym with flashlights as the producer emerged to roaring applause.

“What’s up Salem High School?” he shouted, greeted by screams. “This school’s still looking the same. Do y’all still got the red lockers?”

Students laughed and clapped as the 53-year-old reconnected with his teenage memories.

“I want to say this,” he told the crowd. “Don’t ever stop dreaming. Don’t ever lose hope. You can make it.”

The celebration continues Saturday with a parade and a public ceremony where the city will unveil the new street sign for Timbaland Way and present the producer with a key to the city.

The Virginia Beach City Council unanimously approved the renaming of Bridle Creek Boulevard to honor his contributions to music and his hometown.

Inside the gym, a marching band performed routines set to his catalog of hits.

Timbaland’s career began in the 1990s after graduating from Salem High, where he DJed and performed in a group called S.B.I. (Surrounded By Idiots) alongside Pharrell Williams.

He later rose to fame through collaborations with Missy Elliott on tracks like “Work It” and “Get Ur Freak On,” and with Jay-Z on “Dirt Off Your Shoulder” and “Big Pimpin’.”

His production credits also include Timberlake’s “SexyBack” and “Cry Me a River” and Aaliyah’s “One in a Million.”

In June 2024, Timbaland was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, further cementing his place in music history.

Method Man Shows Off Dance Moves In Daughter’s Viral TikTok Video

Method Man hit TikTok with some slick moves and even slicker parenting when he agreed to be a backup dancer for his daughter Chey—all to keep his credit card from getting wrecked.

The Wu-Tang Clan icon jumped into Chey’s video after she pitched him a deal he couldn’t pass up.

“I promised my dad if he was my backup dancer, I wouldn’t do a shopping spree with his card. How’d he do?” she joked in the caption and pops showed up and showed out.

@cheymusic I promised my dad if he was my backup dancer, I wouldn’t do a shopping spree with his card😂❤️ How’d he do? Am I going shopping or naw chat? #Chey #dadsoftiktok #ineverknewlovelikethisbefore #methodman ♬ original sound – DJ FAZIO

The clip had Method Man grooving in sync with Chey to Stephanie Mills’ hit song “Never Knew Love Like This Before” remixe with Kwame’s song “Only You”, giving off smooth Staten Island energy and proving he’s still got some rhythm in the tank.

The vibe was playful, the moves clean, and the whole thing gave a peek into their tight-knit father-daughter bond.

Chey—real name Cheyenne Smith—has been grinding in the rap game, trying to build her own lane outside her dad’s shadow.

She dropped two tracks in 2024 and has been making noise as both a rapper and content creator. She’s not riding coattails—she’s building her own rep.

She graduated from Wagner College in 2020 and has been focused on her music ever since. She’s also got a twin brother named Raekwon—yep, named after another Wu-Tang legend.

While Method Man is usually known for spitting bars and tearing up stages, this time he’s making headlines for being a cool dad.