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Diddy Attacks Inmate’s Lawsuit Over $400M “Cash Grab”

Sean “Diddy” Combs has had enough of what his legal team describes as a “decades-long onslaught of frivolous and vexatious lawsuits” filed by Michigan inmate Derrick Lee Cardello-Smith.

The Hip-Hop mogul also asks the court to impose restrictions barring the inmate from filing additional lawsuits without judicial approval and to have Cardello-Smith cover his mounting legal expenses.

Filed by Cardello-Smith, who is serving a decades-long sentence for rape, the lawsuit alleges that nearly 30 years ago, Diddy assaulted him in Michigan and demands over $400 million in damages.

The case gained significant attention when a judge issued a $100 million default judgment and prohibited Diddy from selling his Los Angeles mansion after failing to appear for a hearing.

That judgment, however, was later vacated after Diddy’s legal team successfully argued the inmate had altered key court documents to obtain the order.

“This barrage of fabricated claims must come to an end,” said Diddy’s attorney, David Fink, in court documents. “Plaintiff’s frequent filings clearly indicate he has no intention of stopping his meritless attacks.”

According to Diddy’s legal team, Cardello-Smith has filed at least 173 federal lawsuits over the years, with many dismissed as baseless.

The inmate has repeatedly attempted to draw celebrities, such as Jennifer Lopez, into his claims, even listing Lopez as a planned witness in this particular case.

Lawyers for Diddy argue the accusations have no basis in law or fact, labeling them “fantastical fabrications.”

The ongoing legal battle took another unusual turn with Cardello-Smith’s claim that Diddy had visited him in prison to negotiate a settlement—a statement that prison records contradict.

Additionally, he alleged that he served legal documents to Diddy years before filing the lawsuit, another assertion that Diddy’s attorneys have described as a fantasy.

Diddy’s legal team is requesting harsh measures to address what it sees as an abuse of the court system.

In addition to seeking dismissal of the current case, they have called for sanctions under federal law, including a permanent injunction requiring Cardello-Smith to obtain court approval before initiating any future lawsuits.

This type of court order, referred to as a prefiling injunction, is typically used to curb serial litigants with a history of filing frivolous claims.

“Plaintiff has caused significant legal fees and costs to be incurred by Mr. Combs,” Fink stated in the court filings, adding that the lawsuit represented a “calculated abuse” of legal resources.

Diddy’s attorneys also seek monetary sanctions to recover those legal fees, emphasizing the strain imposed by Cardello-Smith’s history of unfounded legal actions.

Due to his history of repeated, meritless claims, the filings highlighted that Cardello-Smith has been barred in multiple courts from submitting lawsuits without prepayment of fees.

Diddy’s legal team argued this pattern demonstrates a need for similar restrictions in the current case.

Through this motion, Diddy’s lawyers aim not only to bring this case to a close but also to prevent future legal obstacles that might arise from what they describe as an “ongoing pattern of harassment” by Cardello-Smith.

The federal court has not yet ruled on Diddy’s motion, leaving the next chapter of the protracted legal drama uncertain.

CHIC Singer Alfa Anderson Dies At 78: DJ Premier, Spike Lee & More Console Nile Rodgers

CHIC singer Alfa Anderson has died at age 78. According to an Instagram post from co-founder Nile Rodgers, she passed away on December 17. Rodgers didn’t write much in the caption, however he did say “thank you for everything” alongside a carousel of throwback photos.

The comment section blew up with condolences from a bevy of Hip-Hop artists, musicians and affiliates, including DJ Premier, DJ Chuck Chillout, Spike Lee, Wu-Tang Clan’s Mathematics, DJ Spinna, Sheila E and Dam Funk.

“What an Iconic group with style, grace and sound!” Premier wrote, while Chuck Chillout added, “Sorry for your lost her voice was amazing.”

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CHIC played a central role in shaping the disco, funk and R&B genres. Formed in 1976 by guitarist Rodgers and bassist Bernard Edwards, CHIC became synonymous with infectious grooves and sophisticated arrangements. Their music was characterized by tight rhythms, lush strings and smooth vocal harmonies, creating an iconic sound that resonated across dance floors worldwide.

Hits such as “Le Freak,” “Good Times” and “I Want Your Love” defined the disco era and showcased the group’s ability to craft dance anthems. Beyond their own hits, Rodgers and Edwards became sought-after producers, influencing a generation of artists through their innovative production techniques and songwriting.

CHIC’s legacy extends far beyond their chart-topping success. Their song “Good Times” became one of the most sampled tracks in music history, laying the foundation for Hip-Hop’s rise with its bassline featured in Sugarhill Gang’s “Rapper’s Delight.”

Despite challenges following the decline of disco in the early 1980s, CHIC’s music experienced a revival in later decades, with Rodgers enjoying a career resurgence through collaborations with artists like Daft Punk on the Grammy Award-winning single “Get Lucky.”

CHIC was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 and remains a symbol of enduring creativity and cultural influence, bridging the worlds of funk, disco and modern pop.

Anderson, who joined the group in 1977, contributed to “Le Freak,” “Good Times” and “I Want Your Love.” Alongside her fellow vocalists, including Luci Martin and Norma Jean Wright (who preceded her), Anderson brought elegance and charisma to CHIC’s live performances and recordings, complementing Rodgers and Edwards’ production style.

After her tenure with CHIC, Anderson pursued a solo career, continuing to showcase her versatility as an artist. She has worked as a session singer for various artists and genres. In later years, she reunited with former CHIC members for special projects and performances, celebrating the enduring legacy of the band. Her contributions to CHIC’s success and the broader disco era have solidified her place as a vital figure in the history of pop music.

Anderson became a high school principal in the 1990s and her former school, El Puente Academy for Peace and Justice High School in Brooklyn, wrote a tribute to her. Read it below.

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Big Pun’s Widow Storms Out Of Interview After Fat Joe Question: “Are You Serious?!”

Big Pun’s widow, Liza Rios, did a recent interview with the Uppercut podcast that didn’t exactly go according to plan. At one point during the conversation, she was asked why she wouldn’t apologize to Fat Joe to settle their differences. It went downhill from there.

It began innocently enough, with Rios suggesting Fat Joe would have been nothing without Big Pun.

“Joe probably would’ve faded out because if another label would have signed Big Pun, Joe probably would have faded to the back,” she said. “[…] Joe’s a smart business man. He’s stayed relevant all these years.”

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But then the interviewer said, “All he wants is an apology and you can’t do that?” to which she says, “Are you serious? Why would I give him an apology after what he put my family through? What he did legally.”

They started to talk over each other until it was clear Rios was getting upset. She then said, “Can we stop this for a second? I’m leaving this interview. This is a whole Fat Joe situation now. Yeah, I’m good. I’m good off of this. I’m not comfortable and I’m leaving this interview.”

Rios accused the interviewer of acting like he was on Fat Joe’s “side” as she slammed his “attitude.” As she stood up to leave she added, “I am not going to sit here and explain to you what he did to my family […] You f##### up.”

Big Pun (real name Christopher Rios) was discovered by Fat Joe, who signed him to his Terror Squad label in the mid-1990s. Fat Joe played a crucial role in introducing Big Pun to the world and, subsequently, Pun became the first solo Latino rapper to go platinum with his 1998 album Capital Punishment.

Tragedy struck in 2000, when he passed away at age 28. Pun, who suffered from obesity, died of a heart attack and complications from the disease. His death left a void in the Hip-Hop community, especially for Fat Joe, who publicly mourned his friend’s loss.

In the years after Big Pun’s death, controversy arose between Fat Joe and Pun’s family, particularly Liza Rios.

Rios accused Fat Joe of failing to properly compensate Pun’s family for his music royalties. She claimed that the family was left in financial hardship while Fat Joe profited from Big Pun’s legacy. In 2014, she filed a lawsuit against Fat Joe, alleging that the Terror Squad owed Pun’s estate over $1 million in royalties.

Fat Joe has denied these allegations, maintaining that he fulfilled his contractual obligations. In the years since, Fat Joe has consistently expressed his love and respect for Big Pun, emphasizing that he did his best to support Pun’s family after his death. However, the legal and public disputes have cast a shadow over their once-strong partnership.

Christina Aguilera Delivers Nude Present For Fans

Christina Aguilera marked her 44th birthday with a striking Instagram post that celebrated confidence and self-expression.

The pop icon shared a sultry black-and-white photo, where she posed wearing a leather cap, a black belt, stilettos, and nothing else but her own boldness.

With her arm carefully draped across her chest and her gaze fixed directly at the camera, Aguilera captioned the image succinctly, “Birthday Suit #44.”

The snapshot quickly gained traction on social media, amassing over 250,000 likes as fans and followers applauded her fearless attitude.

Comments streamed in, with fans celebrating both her appearance and the empowerment the photo conveyed.

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“Getting older in years, but younger in appearance is what I’m talking about!!!!” wrote one admirer. Another chimed in, “Oh honey, they are not doing it like you!!! Fabulous! Happy Birthday Queen.”

Known for her powerhouse voice and unapologetically bold persona, Aguilera’s post comes on the heels of her openness about her approach to body image and self-acceptance.

Earlier this year, in a Glamour magazine interview, the “Beautiful” singer addressed speculation surrounding her weight loss, making it clear that she refuses to let public opinions dictate her self-worth.

“I have a maturity now where I just don’t give a f**k about your opinion. I’m not going to take it on,” Aguilera explained during the interview.

She emphasized the importance of owning her space, adding, “Other people’s opinions of me are not my business.”

As a mother of two, Aguilera also touched on how her experiences in the entertainment industry have influenced how she raises her children, Max, 16, and Summer, 10.

“Your kids trigger things in you that you don’t want them to go through,” she said. “It’s almost like you’re reliving this whole thing again.”

MLB Legend Rickey Henderson Passes Away: Rap Legends Honor The Hall of Famer

Baseball legend Rickey Henderson passed away on Friday at the age of 65, following a battle with pneumonia.

“Rickey Henderson is undeniably one of the greatest baseball players of all time. His on-field achievements speak volumes, and his records remain unmatched in baseball history,” the Oakland Athletics, Henderson’s longtime team, said in a heartfelt statement. “He was the most iconic player in Oakland history, leaving an unforgettable legacy for generations of A’s fans during his 14 seasons in Green and Gold. We are deeply shocked and heartbroken by his passing. His absence will be felt not just by A’s fans but by the entire baseball community worldwide. The A’s organization extends its sincerest condolences to Rickey’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

A 10-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion, Henderson remains the all-time leader in stolen bases with an astounding 1,406 over his 25-year career—a record that still stands. He led the league in steals in 12 separate seasons, including a remarkable 1982 campaign when he set the single-season record with 130 stolen bases.

Henderson’s legacy extended deep into Hip-Hop culture, with several artists pausing to pay their respects. E-40 posted a video and several pictures of the baseball legend together, proclaiming him the goat.

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“My favorite baseball player!! Literally idolized this man!! Rest well king!! Thank you 🙏” Peter Gunz

“R.I.P. To an ICON. Greatness Personified”DJ Premier

“Before hiphop, baseball was my passion. For this 70s baby who was following the NY Yankees in the 80s, it got no better than Rickey Henderson. Henderson was my greatest sports inspiration. I styled everything I did after him, I even chose the number 24. RIP to Oakland’s own Man Of Steal.” Talib Kweli

In addition to his stolen bases record, Henderson also holds the Major League Baseball record for most runs scored, crossing home plate 2,295 times during his career.

Henderson also played for eight other teams, including the Boston Red Sox in 2002. His accolades include a Gold Glove Award in 1981, the MVP Award in 1990, and three Silver Slugger Awards.

Henderson’s extraordinary talent and larger-than-life presence made him a true icon and even a Hip-Hop hero.

Photo: E-40 / Instagram

Talib Kweli Reveals Truth Behind Those Amazon Christmas Ads

This year, I thought I kept hearing Talib Kweli’s voice on a catchy Christmas song being used in Amazon Prime ads. The song isn’t bad at all, but it raised a few questions.

First, is that really Talib? Second, is this his new career move? And third, does this align with his staunch political beliefs?

Well, the rapper addressed it—on the new app Blue Sky, a more liberal version of Elon Musk’s latest project.

Anyway, here’s what the Brooklyn native had to say:

“Every holiday season people congratulate me on having my song used in an Amazon ad, except for this season… because the people I’m around support the strike.

“Here’s the thing tho… I’ve never had a song used in an Amazon ad. That’s not me. That’s just someone who sounds like me.”

Oh, and did you know Amazon workers are on strike? They basically said, “We’ll strike when Santa needs us the most.” (Check out more on that here: Amazon Workers Strike).

Anyway, Talib made it clear: “I’m with the people.” I can’t lie—I sort of wish it was him on that song, though.

In a brief chat with Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur, Talib joked about how the confusion over this Christmas song was getting out of hand:

Jigsaw: “I was going to ask you about this, but I Shazam’ed the song and got the truth.”
Talib: “Bro, issa epidemic lol.”

Follow Jigsaw at: @chuckcreekmur.bsky.social. By the way, get at Grouchy Greg and AllHipHop!

I’m not hopping on any more of these platforms! I was on MySpace at one point!
(P.S. I still have my account: MySpace – theillseed)

Oh and here’s that song.

Paul Wall Explains How Kanye West Changed The Game With His Titanium “Jaws” Grillz

Paul Wall affectionately crowned Kanye West a “visionary” while dishing on his opinion of some of the biggest Hip-Hop artists grillz.

In a recent interview with Billboard Hip-Hop, the Houston rapper, who doubles as a grillz aficionado shared his thoughts on some of the most iconic grill designs sported by artists. In somewhat of a surprising twist, The People’s Champ lyricist ended up giving special praise to Kanye West for his revolutionary approach to his recent grill design based off of his inspiration from a film.

“Kanye West, man, one of the biggest visionaries of all time, no doubt,” Paul Wall began as he reflected on West’s recent titanium grill.

Wall’s high praises for West’s grillz could certainly serve as a consolation prize for the Chicago native, who reportedly spent more than $850,000 for the set made from the high-strength precious metal. As he continued, he remarked on how the unique design both brought him back to his early years as a juvenile imitating the trend as a kid, while also offering a look into the future.

“This grill reminds me of my first grill, the aluminum foil, you know what I’m saying?” he said in part. “When you put the gum wrapper in your mouth and make it work. After Kanye got this, people were always coming in asking for ‘that Kanye grill.’ He’s one of the biggest trendsetters with grills, no question about it.”

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Beyond Kanye West, Wall also praised other artists for their contributions to the evolution of grill culture. For the “Sittin Sidewayz” rapper, T-Pain’s yellow gold and diamond grill became an emblem of the 2000s.

“That was definitely a look for the era,” Wall remarked. “Big shout out to my boy T-Pain.”

Another standout for Wall was Megan Thee Stallion’s “honeymoon set” which featured rose gold grills with a carat of diamonds on each tooth.

“Every tooth is a wedding ring, an engagement ring,” he explained. “If you’re asking Megan to marry you, you better come with a hell of a ring, because she’s already got all the carrots in her mouth.”

Wall also highlighted A$AP Rocky’s flag-themed grill, which he praised for its artistry and attention to detail.

“When he [A$AP ROCKY] debuted that, he definitely stirred some waves,” he said. “The way the top and bottom align perfectly, it’s a serious piece of work. A$AP really came with it on that one.”

While reflecting on the evolution of grills, Wall couldn’t help but mention his own contributions to the culture. He started his grillz business in the early 2000s, working alongside jeweler Johnny Dang to create custom designs for artists and fans alike. Wall’s involvement in Nelly’s classic track “Grillz” in 2005 further cemented his status as a grill pioneer.

MGK Drank Girlfriend’s Pee Pee In “Weird” Relationship

Machine Gun Kelly’s former girlfriend has accused the rapper and singer-songwriter of once requesting to consume her urine during their brief romance in 2017.

The claims surfaced during Amia Miley’s appearance on the Inside OnlyFans podcast, where the 34-year-old influencer openly discussed unusual aspects of their relationship.

Miley, known for her work on content subscription platform OnlyFans, recounted the bizarre experience, claiming, “I mean, he drank my pee.”

She further described the circumstances leading up to the alleged incident, explaining that MGK – real name Colson Baker – had asked her to urinate into his cupped hands as they stood in the shower at his house.

“He held out his hand and was like, ‘OK, now pee.’ Then he started going like this into his mouth,” she said, mimicking a cupping motion to demonstrate the scene.

Miley, who briefly dated the “Papercuts” artist, described him as unpredictable, noting, “He has like 30 different personalities. You never know which person you’re getting in this minute, and that was hard to deal with.”

She claimed the incident was a one-time occurrence, adding that the overall relationship “was just weird the whole time.”

This resurfaced revelation comes just weeks after reports of another alleged split between Machine Gun Kelly and his fiancée, actress Megan Fox.

The high-profile couple, who originally began dating in 2020 and announced their engagement in 2022, reportedly separated again earlier this month following a heated Thanksgiving dispute.

The pair’s on-again, off-again relationship had previously been marked by a brief breakup in March, followed by a reconciliation.

Megan Fox and MGK have yet to address the recent reports of their separation or comment publicly on Miley’s claims.

Lil Baby Reveals How Close He Came To Getting Arrested With Young Thug 

It’s no surprise that Lil Baby is relieved to see his friend and frequent collaborator, Young Thug, back home after over 900 days behind bars. What’s less known, however, is just how close he came to being caught up with Thugger on the day of his arrest. 

In October, the YSL rapper was released from jail after taking a non-negotiated plea deal in the longest criminal trial in Georgia history. 

During a recent interview, Lil Baby recalled being with Young Thug when the authorities came to arrest him.  

“I don’t even tell people, I could’ve been with him,” Baby told Lil Yachty on the latest episode of “A Safe Place” podcast. “I was at his house the same day. Thank God I just happened to leave two hours early.” 

On May 9, 2022, authorities arrested Young Thug and 27 other alleged gang members in connection with a sprawling 56-count indictment.

Baby explained witnessing “bro go through this” took a significant mental toll on him. 

“That’ll f### your head up more than anything,” he admitted. “That s### could’ve really been me. A n#### had to change his whole life around. [This is] not even my rap peer. This is my everyday [friend]. These the n##### I grew up with.” 

Lil Baby also reflected on the lengthy trial, dubbed Atlanta’s “trial of the century.” He opened up about the impact on his recording process.   

“That’s a long-ass process,” he stated. “I’m into it. I’m watching it every day. All that is on your brain and on your mind while you need to go and put out your best work and s###. It’s gone be hard to do that.” 

Meanwhile, Lil Baby recently discussed the status of his relationship with Gunna in a new interview, rejecting a possible reunion. 

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Daddy Yankee Reaches Partial Agreement With Ex-Wife In $100M Battle

Daddy Yankee reached a partial agreement with his estranged wife during a court hearing in San Juan, Puerto Rico, addressing allegations that she withdrew $100 million from two of his companies without authorization.

The artist appeared composed as he arrived at the courthouse on Friday (December 20), dressed in a tailored black suit and tie.

“These things happen,” the Puerto Rican icon remarked to gathered reporters before his appearance.

During the hearing, an agreement was made “in good faith” between Yankee and Mireddys González, his high school sweetheart and wife.

Daddy Yankee filed legal documents accusing González of transferring the funds without his consent.

During private negotiations, it was decided that Yankee would regain control of his two companies, El Cartel Records and Los Cangris.

He is set to assume the role of president for both entities effective December 26, ensuring that his creative and business ventures remain under his leadership moving forward.

Speaking to the press after the proceedings, Yankee emphasized respect for his former partner and their history together.

“I have always respected Mrs. González, and I ask that you respect her as well,” he stated.

The couple tied the knot in 1995 and share two children, a union once regarded as one of the most enduring in the music industry but now nearing its end.

Daddy Yankee’s professional life has undergone a significant shift in recent months following his public declaration in 2023 to dedicate himself to Christianity. Earlier this month, he revealed he was splitting with González after 30 years of marriage.

Despite personal upheaval, the reggaeton trailblazer maintains a steady focus on his faith and future.

Gillie Da Kid Flips Out During His Own Boxing Event After Chaos Erupts

Gillie Da Kid held what was supposed to be a fun boxing event in Philadelphia on Friday (December 20)—but quickly things went left.

According to a video making the rounds on social media, Gillie Da Kid snapped on the crowd after patrons began clashing with police outside of the venue.

“Please, turn that music off,” Gillie began. “Me and Wallo put on for the city, and this how you b###### treat us? Y’all outside, f###### ripped the door out, shot at the f###### police and all that d###### s###. Get the f### out! All of y’all, get the f### out! That’s what type of f###### respect you give us? All the s### we do? Get the f### up out this joint.

Gillie Da Kid, who lost his son to gun violence, later addressed the incident on Instagram. As he explained, nobody ever shot at the police. In fact, he was misinformed and confirmed the patrons were simply “shouting” at police.

The Million Dollaz Worth of Game podcast host was also stunned that the police captain asked him to do crowd control.

“The Wilmington police is the worst police district in the f###### country,” he began. T”hey the worst. I paid security and the police fourteen thousand f###### dollars. Fourteen thousand f###### dollars. You gotta understand I’m in the middle of a livestream.

And the police who supposed to be the f###### captain, he walks up on me in the middle of a livestream and says, ‘I’mma need you to go outside and talk to the people and get them in order ’cause there’s a bunch of muthafuckas outside that ain’t got tickets.’ Bro, you the f###### police. Why you need me to go outside?”

The captain allegedly suggested he wouldn’t like how he’d handle the crowd. As Gillie attempted to diffuse the situation, the other officers questioned what he was doing. Five minutes later, he says they maced some people.

Nevertheless, Gillie wound up kicking “thousands of people” out of the stands, bringing the event to an unceremonious close. Despite the chaos, some people are asking for an apology from Gillie. As one person wrote, “Just apologize and move on bro… u had an impetuous moment where you disrespected your supporters.. apologize and move on… they did not make you speak to that crowd the way that you did , but it’s OK.”

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EXCLUSIVE: Government Seeking $64M From Fugees’ Pras After Conviction

The U.S. government is moving to seize over $64 million from Grammy-winning Fugees rapper Prakazrel “Pras” Michel following his conviction on a range of conspiracy charges and financial crimes, alleging the funds came from illicit lobbying and fraudulent schemes.

Prosecutors filed a motion in Washington, D.C.’s federal court seeking a forfeiture judgment of precisely $64,923,226.40.

They argue this sum represents money Pras funneled into his accounts through a tangle of covert dealings, including work as an unregistered foreign agent and deceptive financial activities that prosecutors say compromised U.S. systems of law and finance.

At the heart of the case is Pras’ relationship with Jho Low, the fugitive Malaysian financier tied to the infamous 1MDB embezzlement scandal. Through this partnership, the rapper allegedly channeled roughly $104 million from Low to influence U.S. government officials.

His work reportedly included lobbying for the dismissal of a Justice Department investigation into Low’s alleged crimes and attempts to push for the extradition of a Chinese dissident at the behest of Beijing.

According to court filings, Pras concealed the source of the money using an intricate network of shell companies, fraudulent contracts, and deceptive financial agreements.

Prosecutors claim Pras, alongside collaborators including Elliot Broidy, a financier and GOP fundraiser, and George Higginbotham, a former Justice Department lawyer, orchestrated an elaborate scheme to gain access to U.S. banks while lying repeatedly about their intentions.

“Michel and Higginbotham created fake contracts and agreements and repeatedly lied to multiple financial institutions as part of their conspiracy to fraudulently obtain access to the U.S. banking system for the $104.24 million from Low,” prosecutors explained in the court documents.

The request for forfeiture comes in the wake of Pras’ conviction, handed down in April, where he was found guilty on 10 federal counts, including charges related to violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA).

His trial, one of the most high-profile cases involving a celebrity in a foreign lobbying scandal, provided a rare glimpse into the intersection of global financial crime, politics, and pop culture.

The government has already seized some sums tied to the case, but the $64 million figure reflects the remaining amounts deemed to have been proceeds from criminal conduct.

In their motion, prosecutors asserted that federal law mandates the forfeiture of criminal proceeds tied to specific offenses.

They pointed to his efforts to launder funds and influence U.S. officials as examples of conduct warranting the seizure of assets.

Pras’ legal team is anticipated to contest the motion, though the evidence presented during his trial included a trail of emails, bank records, and wire transfers that traced the movements of these funds.

Pras faces up to 20 years in prison. His next sentencing hearing is slated for January of 2025.

Swedish Rapper Gaboro Shot Dead In Unbelievably Bold Attack

Swedish rapper Gaboro was fatally shot in a multi-story car park in Norrköping, southeast of Stockholm, earlier this week.

Known for concealing his identity with a ski mask and sunglasses, the popular Swedish Hip-Hop artist, was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to a hospital.

Fellow artists and fans have taken to social media to honor the 27-year-old rapper, with emotional tributes pouring in.

Swedish DJ Alan Max shared a photo of himself with Gaboro, stating, “Have no words,” while rapper Imenella posted a heartfelt message, saying, “Rest in peace.”

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Authorities have confirmed an unsettling video circulating online that appears to document the shooting.

The footage, seemingly captured by the assailant with a body-mounted camera, shows someone brandishing a handgun and firing multiple shots within the parking structure.

Swedish police have acknowledged the video and stated that it is now part of their investigation. No arrests or suspects have been named at this stage.

Gaboro rose to prominence with the 2024 single Harki, which amassed more than 11 million Spotify streams. His artistry and enigmatic public persona earned him a strong following, but his untimely death echoes similar tragedies in Sweden’s Hip-Hop community.

In June, rapper C.Gambino—crowned Sweden’s Hip-Hop Artist of the Year weeks earlier—was also killed in a shooting.

Another case that shook the nation was the death of award-winning rapper Einar, who was gunned down in October 2021 amid gang-related tensions.

Diddy Accused Of Drugging, Assaulting Contest Winner

Diddy has been accused in a new lawsuit of drugging and sexually assaulting a woman during a party in New York City in 2006.

The lawsuit, filed by LaTroya Grayson, claims the incident occurred at an exclusive event hosted by Hip-Hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs after she and her sibling won a contest organized by an Oklahoma radio station.

The prize included airfare, accommodations in Manhattan, and access to what was initially promoted as Combs’ “White Party,” which later turned into a “Black Party.”

Grayson alleges that she entered the party alone after security prevented her sibling from joining her. She says she consumed two cocktails before feeling extremely disoriented and heading to the restroom.

According to the court documents, her memory of the evening abruptly ends there. The lawsuit says Grayson woke up hours later at Saint Vincent’s Medical Center wearing a torn shirt and no undergarments.

She reportedly had no recollection of how she ended up at the hospital, an assertion outlined in the filing.

After returning to Oklahoma, she claims she received an anonymous phone call from a woman who warned her against pursuing legal action against Combs.

The alleged threat, paired with the trauma of the experience, prevented Grayson from coming forward for years, her legal team states.

This lawsuit comes amid a growing number of allegations against Combs, who has faced accusations of violence, coercion, and misconduct from over two dozen women.

He is currently jailed at the MDC lockup in Brooklyn, where he is being held without bond on sex trafficking and RICO charges.

The Grammy-winning artist and entrepreneur has not publicly commented on the recent claims.

Fugees’ Pras Faces Life In Prison But Co-Conspirators Walk

Yo, it’s illseed!

This is wild. Pras Michel, one-third of the legendary Fugees, is staring down what could be a life sentence after getting convicted on charges connected to foreign influence. Yeah, you read that right—life sentence. And here’s the craziest part: his so-called co-conspirators are out here living their best lives.

Let’s break it down before the news section gets on it.

Pras caught an “F” (felony) for allegedly playing middleman for some serious money moves, working with Jho Low. (Not, J-Lo! That’s another mess.) Low is the infamous Malaysian billionaire tied to the 1MDB scandal—and a Chinese billionaire to flex influence in the U.S. Nothing Pras did was violent, and there weren’t even any direct victims. But the DOJ is still pushing for what’s essentially a life sentence. What the…

READ ALSO: Pras Addresses Future With Fugees Amid Potential 22-Year Jail Sentence 

White collar crimes look different when a brother is wearing the suit. By the way, Low is out living his life of excess, apparently in China.

Does anybody out there know Elliott Broidy? The big Republican fundraiser? Look him up. He was tied up in some of the same FARA violations, pled guilty, and walked away with a full pardon from Trump. Can Pras get that John Forte love? If you know, you know. Republican presidents do some good. Tom Barrack, another Trump ally, just beat similar charges at trial. Pras didn’t plead guilty or cut any deals, which might be the major difference. They hit him with the “Hee Haw!” The DOJ said his decision to go to trial instead of cooperating justifies the harsher punishment. What’s really good with that? Is the case weak?

Pras has maintained that he didn’t even realize his actions were illegal. It sounds like he got caught up in something bigger than him—a game of chess where he didn’t know all the rules.

Pras is waiting for his sentencing.

Stay tuned. This one isn’t over yet. Keep your eyes open and your third eye sharper—because the game is rigged. They aren’t playing fair.

Lizzo Vows To Fight Harassment Lawsuit To Its End

Lizzo has spoken out on a contentious workplace harassment lawsuit, marking her first public remarks since being sued by former employees in 2023.

Speaking on Keke Palmer’s podcast, Baby, This Is Keke Palmer, the Grammy-winning artist labeled the dismissal of one stylist’s claim a “big victory.”

She vowed to continue fighting allegations leveled by three of her former dancers “until they’re all dismissed—not dropped, but dismissed,” the 36-year-old said.

The allegations, filed in 2023, accused Lizzo of fostering a hostile work environment, including claims of sexual harassment.

While the stylist’s lawsuit was dismissed in September, the case involving the three dancers remains active. Lizzo described the lawsuit as a devastating blow that erupted in the aftermath of her first arena tour, which she had shared with her Watch Out for the Big Grrrls dancers.

“I was literally living in my dream,” Lizzo said, describing the transition from the thrill of performing to being embroiled in legal turmoil. “Then the tour ended, and three ex-dancers just completely blindsided me with a lawsuit.”

The singer expressed disbelief and disappointment, calling the allegations “completely surprising.”

She explained how the three dancers, who were no longer on tour when the complaint was filed, had previously been individuals she respected and championed.

“These were people that I gave opportunities to,” she said. “These were people that I liked and appreciated as dancers, respected them as dancers. So I was like, ‘What?!’”

Lizzo also addressed the additional allegations of sexual harassment included in the lawsuit.

“I was like, ‘I don’t know what they’re trying to do,’ but these are the types of things that the media can turn into something that it’s not.”

Amid the controversy, the artist revealed that she has channeled her feelings into her music.

“A lot of the music is me talking things through,” she said. “I remembered my purpose… I’m putting everything in my art.”.

Yung Miami Recalls “Youth Fair” Trips With Godmother Trina & Talks Her Immense Influence

Yung Miami has opened up about her close-knit relationship with Trina in her latest conversation with Summer Walker.

Rather than connecting for her Revolt podcast, the former City Girls rapper appeared in a heartfelt interview with Walker for her new show via apple music. In the midst of the interview, Yung Miami shared the story behind her relationship with the legendary Miami rapper, who also happens to be her godmother. As Yung Miami described how she got her signature rap name, she went on to explain how Trina has influenced her music and shaped her life since she was a pre-teen.

“I was talking to somebody before and they just used to call me Miami, and I just put Yung in front of it,” Yung Miami began. “I was like, you know, I’m young from Miami. I’m lit. It’s my city. So then, like, when I started rapping, I was just like, yeah, Miami 305, claiming it.”

Yung Miami continued, reflecting on how her connection to Trina has bled into her music.

“Yeah, for sure, I feel like I sound like Trina a lot,” she said. “Trina definitely influenced me. You know, that’s my godmother. So I love Trina. Like, I’m so thankful for that lady.”

Yung Miami fondly recalled moments from her childhood, sharing her memories of how Trina’s presence in her life left an indelible mark on her.

“She used to take me to the youth fair, and I was like, probably like 10,” she said. “I’ll never forget ’cause I used to be like, ‘oh my God, I’m a celebrity’. We’d be at the fair. She got her bodyguards. Everybody ran up to us, and they’re like, ‘get back’. And I’d be like, ‘get back,'” she recalled with laughter.

Yung Miami’s connection to Miami’s music legends doesn’t stop with Trina.

“Even Trick Daddy, he got a video called ‘Trick Luv Da Kids. We was in a video.” she said. “I love DJ Khaled. ‘I’m So Hood’. We was in a video. Trick and Trina, you know, they’re from Miami. My parents grew up with them. So I’ve been running around in a celebrity field of Miami. Yes, it’s nothing new to me.”

The rapper’s admiration for Trina reached a high point recently when the two shared the stage at the BET Hip-Hop Awards.

“It was great. And it was definitely like a moment I’ve been waiting to perform on stage,” she said. “We did it at the BET Hip-Hop Awards, so it was actually the perfect time.”

The duo performed Trina’s iconic hit “Pull Over” with Yung Miami enthusiastically reminiscing about the track. Yung Miami described the performance as a dream come true.

“I was just like, this is the moment that I’ve been waiting for,” she said. “Imagine waiting on your moment, and you get it. It’s just to have that moment together and to be able to pay homage to her.”

Check out the clip in the post above.

Financial Tips for Independent Artists

Managing finances as an independent artist can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With practical tips and simple strategies, you can take control of your earnings, plan ahead, and set yourself up for long-term stability.

Learn the Basics of Royalties to Protect Your Earnings 

Royalties are a critical part of earning as an artist. So, understand how they work and what you’re entitled to when your music is streamed, played live, or licensed for use. 

Research platforms that collect royalties on your behalf, ensuring you’re signed up with the right ones for maximum coverage. And check agreements carefully before agreeing to any deals involving royalties. 

Clear knowledge helps prevent lost income and ensures every track generates its fair share of revenue over time. 

Diversify Income Streams to Build Stability 

Relying solely on one income source can be risky. Explore other ways to generate revenue, like merchandise sales, paid collaborations, or offering workshops and lessons. 

Digital options like selling beat packs or licensing music for media projects open new earning opportunities – without the need for constant performances. Balance these with your main artistic work to avoid burnout. 

Multiple income streams act as a safety net during slow periods, providing financial stability while keeping you connected with different audiences and markets. 

Invest in Affordable Promotion Tools That Work 

Promoting your work doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Use cost-effective tools, like social media scheduling or DIY graphic design platforms, to keep expenses low while maintaining quality. 

Leverage free resources too – regularly post on platforms where your audience is active and engage directly with them. 

And consider small-budget ads for key releases or events that need extra visibility. 

Strategic promotion ensures you reach more fans without overspending, helping you grow both financially and within your creative community. 

Use Invoices to Ensure You Get Paid on Time Without Hassle 

Invoicing ensures clear communication about payment expectations. Always send invoices promptly after finishing a project, and make sure they include essential details like your name, services provided, and payment terms. 

You can use a freelancer invoice template to simplify the process and ensure consistency in your records. 

Consistent invoicing habits create smoother transactions while helping you maintain professionalism with every collaboration or contract. 

Save for Taxes Ahead of Each Payment Cycle 

Tax season can be stressful if you’re not prepared. Set aside a percentage of every payment (around 25 – 30% is a safe estimate) to cover taxes. This prevents surprises when filing time comes around. 

Organize receipts and expenses in one place to make claiming deductions easier later. 

Separate accounts for savings and income can help simplify this process further. 

By saving for taxes consistently throughout the year, you avoid financial strain while ensuring your obligations are met without last-minute panic or scrambling. 

Build an Emergency Fund for Unpredictable Months 

Income as an independent artist can fluctuate, so having a financial cushion is essential. Set aside a portion of your earnings whenever possible, aiming to save enough to cover at least three months of living expenses. 

Avoid dipping into this fund unless it’s truly necessary, such as during unexpected downtime or emergencies. 

An emergency fund provides peace of mind and ensures you’re prepared for periods when income might slow down unexpectedly. 

What Makes a Platform Essential for New Urban Talent?

The music industry is crowded with platforms claiming to support new urban and hip-hop talent. Most are noise – more interested in profiting off artists than empowering them. They complicate what should be simple and, in doing so, fail to provide what rising talent truly needs.

For artists carving out their place in a competitive space, only a few platforms prove themselves essential. The difference is clear: they deliver real tools, not empty promises.

Cutting Through the Noise

Let’s address the obvious. Traditional methods of breaking into the industry are largely useless. Gatekeepers still exist, but the best platforms have moved past that outdated model. They focus instead on the artist – offering direct control over every aspect of their career.

A proper platform for urban talent prioritizes tools that work without demanding more from the artist than they already give. It’s not enough to say, “We support creators.” That support must show up in tangible ways.

For instance, tasks like booking, invoicing, and payment management should no longer drain time and energy. Artists using tools such as Joist plumbing software can attest to the value of streamlining these processes. Practical, effective, and artist-focused solutions like these are what separate a good platform from a great one.

What Conventional Platforms Miss

Most platforms operate in the past. They sell visibility as if that alone is the answer. Exposure doesn’t pay bills or book gigs. Exposure doesn’t manage collaborators, contracts, or schedules. Artists today need more than a chance – they need functionality.

The platforms that matter understand this. They focus on equipping artists with tools that deliver:

  • Control over their audience: Fans belong to the artist, not the platform. Any service that takes ownership of that relationship is obsolete.
  • Data artists can act on: Which cities are listening? Which tracks are performing? Useful analytics guide decisions without burdening the creator.
  • Reliable systems: When money changes hands, it must be fast, seamless, and transparent. This is non-negotiable.

Platforms that fail here aren’t just behind – they’re irrelevant. Urban and hip-hop artists are building empires, and they won’t waste time with anything less than essential.

Why Facilitation Is Critical

Urban talent thrives on independence. These artists manage their own brands, juggle creative projects, and make every decision that shapes their careers. It’s a relentless pace. The right tools – facilitation technologies – aren’t a luxury; they’re a necessity.

Consider this: how often do artists lose hours to logistical chaos? Finding the right platform means reclaiming that time. Booking sessions, organizing payments, and tracking every interaction should be effortless. Platforms that deliver this efficiency make an artist’s life better – and their work stronger.

Building Platforms That Resonate

Supporting new urban talent is not a performance. The platforms that succeed in this space don’t just claim to care – they prove it. Artists are not fools, and they won’t fall for vague promises or flashy gimmicks. The platforms that matter do more than advertise their services; they show up with results.

There’s a reason certain platforms rise above the rest. They focus on empowering creators to work smarter, not harder. They provide tools that matter, systems that perform, and results artists can count on. Anything less is a waste of time.

Urban talent deserves better, and the platforms worth choosing already know this.

Drake’s Legal Team Responds To Spotify Amid “Not Like Us” Controversy

Drake’s attorneys have fired back at Spotify after they shared a statement criticizing the Toronto rapper’s claims laid out in his legal complaint against the DSP and its major label client Universal Music Group (UMG).

On Friday (December 20), Drake’s legal counsel fired back at Spotify. The statement arrived after the streaming giant filed court docs in New York Supreme Court denying the OVO Sound co-founder’s allegations that it used bots to log 30,000 streams of the chart-topping single around its initial release.

In addition to pushing back on claims that the company accepted undisclosed payments in connection with the scheme, Spotify asserted that Drake’s case was a “subversion of the normal judicial process.” In response, Drake’s team appeared to call Spotify’s bluff while also daring them to undergo due legal process to prove them wrong.

“It is not surprising that Spotify is trying to distance themselves from UMG’s allegedly manipulative practices to artificially inflate streaming numbers on behalf of one of its other artists,” the statement obtained by Variety read in part. “If Spotify and UMG have nothing to hide then they should be perfectly fine complying with this basic discovery request.”

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Prior to Drake’s legal team’s rebuttal to Spotify, indie artist Russ chimed in on the topic to share a theory of his own. In essence, the CHOMP album architect appeared to suggest that Drake’s claims about bots being used to boost streams isn’t baseless.

However, in doing so he also seemingly called out the industry over payola while revealing his thoughts on why it would be bad for streaming companies to publicly acknowledge major labels’ alleged illegal practices.

“Spotify knows who’s faking their streams lol however, they’re not gonna ever (imo) publicly expose any major labels due to potential consequences,” Russ started off in the lengthy tweet. “Major labels could retaliate by pulling their top artists music from Spotify. That would obviously diminish Spotify’s value and attractiveness to subscribers.”

In another tweet added in the thread he concluded, “I know everyone loves to hate rich companies or rich anything but tbh in this situation Spotify is lowkey the victim bein held hostage by major labels.”

Check out the tweet Russ shared in the post below.

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