Donald Trump appeared at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday (August 17), where he continued attacking Vice President Kamala Harris. In addition to calling her “not very smart” last week, he’s now commenting on her looks, claiming he’s “much better looking” than her.
The comments arrived as Trump was talking about the drawing of Harris on the cover of TIME Magazine, suggesting the publication couldn’t get any flattering photos of her. He then mentioned he read something by a “highly overrated” speech writer, who praised Harris’s beauty.
“She said, ‘Kamala has one big advantage, she’s a beautiful woman,'” he says in the clip. “So I decide to go back and re-read, but I say I am much better looking than her. Much better. I’m a better looking person than Kamala. No, I couldn’t believe it. I had never heard that one. No, she said, ‘Her biggest advantage is she’s a beautiful woman.’ I never thought of that.
Trump frequently attacks Harris, often using sharp rhetoric to undermine her qualifications and political standing. During the 2020 presidential campaign, Trump and his allies sought to cast doubt on Harris’s suitability for the vice presidency, labeling her as “nasty” and “mean.”
Trump routinely questions her credibility and dismissed her achievements, portraying her as a radical leftist whose policies would steer the country in a dangerous direction. His criticisms were often intertwined with broader attacks on the Joe Biden administration, painting Harris as a key figure in what he described as a potential socialist agenda.
Trump’s attacks on Harris extended beyond her policies to target her identity and background. He frequently questioned her authenticity and suggested that she was unlikable, trying to stir division and appeal to his base’s skepticism of her. Trump also amplified unfounded conspiracy theories about Harris, including questioning her eligibility for the vice presidency based on her parents’ immigrant status, despite her being born in the United States.
Harris has also been critical of Trump, particularly regarding his leadership style, policies and impact on American democracy. Throughout her career, especially during the 2020 presidential campaign, she has characterized Trump as a divisive figure who’s undermined key democratic institutions and norms.
She has often pointed to Trump’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, his response to racial injustice and role in inciting the January 6 Capitol riot as evidence of his unfitness for leadership. Harris has argued that Trump’s presidency represented a dangerous departure from the values of inclusion, equality, and justice that she believes are essential to the American identity.
Per Newsweek, Harris’ aggregated favorability rating is stronger than Biden or Trump has achieved in more than two years. Despite becoming the presumptive Democratic nominee just three weeks ago, Harris and her campaign have been successful in helping her overtake Trump in many polls.
The share of registered voters who think Trump will win in November has fallen 10 points, from 58 percent to 48 percent, in less than a month, according to Marist College polls conducted between July 9 and 10 and August 1 through 4.
adidas scored a legal victory by defeating a class action lawsuit accusing the company of securities fraud linked to Kanye West’s contentious behavior.
The HRSA-ILA Funds filed the complaint, contending that adidas failed to reveal West’s inappropriate conduct between 2013 and 2018 and the company’s internal concerns about him.
Nevertheless, the Court dismissed these claims due to insufficient concrete evidence showing misleading statements that could have swayed investor choices.
“Certainly, that Ye allegedly engaged in such behavior while working with adidas is troubling,” Judge Karin J. Immergut said. “This Court does not condone what Ye allegedly did. But the question before this Court is not whether to admonish Ye or hold Adidas morally accountable for Ye’s conduct.”
She added, “This Court is faced with a precise legal question: has [HRSA-ILA Funds] sufficiently pleaded facts showing that Adidas misled investors and thereby committed federal securities fraud? On the current record before this Court, the answer is no.”
The adidas-Yeezy partnership proved highly lucrative, with sales hitting $300 million in 2017.
By 2021, annual sales from the partnership soared to more than $1.7 billion, accounting for eight percent of adidas’s revenue and over 40 percent of its profits.
HRSA-ILA Funds alleged that from the outset in 2013, adidas was well aware of the volatile potential of its partnership with the entertainer.
Early incidents included Kanye West making adidas executives watch adult movies at his Manhattan apartment and drawing a s####### on a shoe during a meeting in Germany.
West’s behavior escalated dramatically in 2022, beginning with his appearance in a “White Lives Matter” t-shirt at a Paris fashion show.
The controversy deepened when he publicly clashed with Diddy, saying, “Ima use you as an example to show the Jewish people that told you to call me that no one can threaten or influence me.”
West’s antisemitic rhetoric on Twitter, including a threat to go “death con 3 on JEWISH PEOPLE,” sparked backlashes and resulted in account suspension.
In an interview with Tucker Carlson, further anti-Semitic remarks were made by West but were omitted from the broadcast. He stated, “I prefer my kids knew Hanukkah than Kwanzaa. At least it will come with some financial engineering.”
adidas ultimately severed ties with West, leading to a significant financial quagmire.
In February 2023, the company warned of a potential shift from profit to loss if it could not offload its Yeezy inventory, valued at $1.29 billion.
In 2023, the company’s revenue declined by $1.3 billion due to the fallout from the split.
The lawsuit contended that adidas’s senior management was aware of the risks posed by Kanye West’s increasingly erratic behavior but failed to inform investors, leading to artificially inflated stock prices.
The Court stressed the stringent criteria for securities fraud, notably the necessity for objective verifiability of corporate statements.
The judge referenced a 2020 Business Partner Risk disclosure available to investors, which acknowledged the potential fallout from unethical behavior by business partners.
The document indicated that adidas had measures to manage such risks, including contract clauses to suspend or terminate partnerships if necessary.
The company finally dumped Kanye on October 25, 2022.
adidas said in a statement, “Ye’s recent comments and actions have been unacceptable, hateful and dangerous, and they violate the company’s values of diversity and inclusion, mutual respect and fairness.”
Mary J. Blige revealed she was in a “dark place” before releasing her transformative album, My Life, in a reflective interview with Billboard.
The R&B powerhouse discusses how the 1994 album, with tracks like “Be Happy” and “Mary Jane,” marked a turning point in her professional and personal journey.
Blige detailed the significance of My Life, recounting her struggles at the time.
“That album is so important, because it was so pivotal for when it came time for me to choose,” Mary J. Blige shared. “I was in a dark place where I didn’t wanna live, and I was begging people to love me and stay with me. Now, I’m not begging anyone to love and stay with me.”
The music icon has since embraced self-love. “I love myself. I found my real love. My true love is myself and I,” she said. “That’s why when it was time for me to choose the My Life album, I chose my life.”
Mary J. Blige, now 53, recalled a critical decision-making moment.
“I chose my life and my fans when it was time to make that turn because I didn’t want to off myself and take half my fanbase with me. That didn’t seem right. I always had a conscious and a spiritual grounding. That’s what made me choose.”
The release of My Life was a watershed moment for Blige, propelling her career to new heights. Since then, she has amassed an impressive collection of 88 awards for her singing and acting, including nine Grammys. Earlier this year, her enduring influence was recognized with an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Kanye West continues to show his allegiance to Donald Trump. On Sunday (August 18), the embattled entrepreneur/rapper and his wife, Bianca Censori, showed up to a Trump rally in Beverly Hills.
Driving a Tesla Cybertruck, West simply pulled to side of the road and soaked up the scene—until he was swarmed by fans chanting his name. Within minutes, he sped off, seemingly anxious to escape the growing crowd. In a video posted to TikTok, Trump supporters are seen waving their Trump flags and wearing red “Make America Great Again” hats as they approach West’s vehicle.
Kanye West has been a vocal supporter of Donald Trump, which has drawn both attention and controversy. West’s support first became widely known in 2016 when he publicly endorsed Trump during a concert. He followed up with a highly publicized visit to the White House in 2018, where he donned a MAGA hat, a symbol of Trump’s campaign. During the meeting, West praised Trump for his “dragon energy,” a term he used to describe what he saw as Trump’s strong and unorthodox leadership style. West also expressed his admiration for Trump’s approach to business and politics, suggesting that Trump’s presidency represented a break from the traditional political establishment, something West found appealing. Then in 2022, he and and white nationalist Nick Fuentes had dinner with Trump at his Palm Beach estate, Mar-a-Lago.
West’s support for Trump was rooted in his desire to challenge conventional thinking and push against the boundaries of political correctness. He saw Trump as a disruptive force in American politics, much like he views himself in the music and fashion industries.
West has spoken about how he feels a kinship with Trump in their shared willingness to defy expectations and go against the grain. However, West’s endorsement of Trump was met with significant backlash, particularly from the Black community and his fans, who felt that Trump’s policies and rhetoric were harmful to marginalized groups. Despite this, West has remained steadfast in his belief that his support for Trump was about more than just politics—it was about challenging the status quo and promoting free thought.
Post Malone feels the immense fame of Taylor Swift and Beyoncé would be a burden, saying it “must suck” to live with their level of celebrity.
The Hip-Hop artist and songwriter, who has tunes on Taylor Swift’s and Beyoncé’s 2024 albums, expressed his reluctance to attain their notoriety.
“I can’t even imagine being at their level – it must suck,” Post Malone said in an interview with The New York Times published this week.
Born Austin Richard Post, the artist elaborated on how intense and invasive the experience must be.
Post Malone shared his observations while working with Swift, describing how the 34-year-old singer needed extreme measures to avoid paparazzi during their video shoot for the song “Fortnight.”
Taylor had to be completely covered—using an umbrella and drapes over a golf cart—to protect her from drones and helicopters capturing footage, he said. “That’s so much pressure.”
Similarly, deception accompanied his collaboration with Beyoncé.
For their song “LEVII’S JEANS,” Post Malone never met the 42-year-old superstar in person.
The musician explained that Beyoncé’s team sent her part of the track to his Utah compound, and the pair communicated solely via text message.
“It was terrifying,” he said, though he was “just honored to be in these people’s vicinity.”
Poiison is not here for play. The emerging rapper and singer from Queens offers a glimpse into her vibrant journey through the music industry. Known in the New York underworld for her collaborations with notable artists like Styles P and Cash Cobain, Poiison’s story is one of ambition and innovation.
Poiison’s musical influences are as eclectic as her sound. She draws inspiration from the lyrical prowess of Lil Wayne, the boundary-pushing artistry of Madonna, and the transformative presence of Lady Gaga. She definitely wants to go after broader audiences.
Looking ahead, Poiison is determined to infuse the industry with fresh energy. “I’m all about bringing something new to the table.”
Check out her talk with Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur at WonWorld Studios and watch the video for the full interview.
AllHipHop: You were in the BET Media House in LA when we met. Whenever I see people in the BET House, it gives me an idea of who they are or where they’re heading. That was your first time, right?
Poiison: Oh, yeah. It definitely was my first time. It felt pretty good, man. It is a different experience, a special experience, a lot of black excellence, just creating memories and it’s amazing. I loved it.
AllHipHop: You’ve been working for a minute, but tell people a little bit about yourself and your background.
Poiison: Yeah. Well, my name’s Poison. I’m from Queens, New York.
AllHipHop: What part?
Poiison: I’m from Ozone Park. I’m not even South Side or any of those lit areas, but I’m from Queens, so it’s all
AllHipHop: Forest Hills is lit too. Yeah. All the areas of Queens.
Poiison: I’m an artist. I’m a singer, rapper, songwriter. I do a lot of dope things and I’m artistic. I’m having a good time. I’m here to start some chaos.
AllHipHop: Well, first of all, let’s talk about your new records. You with Cash Cobain.
Poiison: He’s on fire right now. “Me, Her And You” is a song that I had did and some people that I’m connected to was just like “this guy.” I’m like, “Oh man, [Cash Cobain] is the hottest in the city. He’s like, yeah, “Let’s put something together,” and I instantly knew what song to send him. It’s a little different from what he normally does, but we had a great time. He gave me a great verse. I’m appreciative of that. I feel like I brought him to a different space and he gave me a little bit of him too.
AllHipHop: Where do you see the city as right now? New York is always on top, right? Because you have people like Nas, Nicki Minaj, et cetera, et cetera. Queens, by the way, but it’s a new energy. How do you fit in?
Poiison: Oh, definitely. I feel like I’m the cause of a new vibration. I’m a part of that. Feel me? Some people might not be tapped into who I am, but as time progresses, I got stamina. I’m about to move around and show you why I am a part of that. I’m going to be different. I’m going to be raw. I’m going to have fun. I’m going to dip into looks and have a great time, but I’m going to still say something and I think that’s going to touch people and that that’s going to connect with the people, and I’m a part of that new energy.
AllHipHop: What’s a song you have about pills? What was that song?
Poiison: Oh, “Pills For The Pain.”
AllHipHop: Yeah, that song hit me.
Poiison: That’s a classic.
AllHipHop: Yeah, that’s definitely a classic. Talk about that record a little bit, and what made you frame it that way? What does that mean?
Poiison: Well, “Pills For The Pain” was a very organic song. I remember I was just doing a lot, I mean living good, but not internally happy. Went to a friend’s studio and we recorded the song. No, no, no, I’m cutting it short. Went to a friend’s studio and I just kept expressing how I felt, and he was like, “Yo, just record something.” Then honestly, that’s literally the first thing that came to mind. “Pills for the Pain on a Sunny Day / I don’t know what love is. It just faded away.” I don’t know. It was just so organic, recorded, dropped it and it went viral. People were really liking that song. Still to this day, people hit me about that song.
AllHipHop: I like that record. I was talking to somebody the other day, I was like, “Man, I wish I had some happy pills, man. I would just take them right now.” I mean, I know they got pills, but I mean some…
Poiison: Serotonin.
AllHipHop: Yeah. Basically.
Poiison: Yeah. I mean, that’s what I plan to do with my music. I plan to connect and give you some serotonin, encourage you to feel better. Even if you don’t feel good about it, you’re just going to feel something at it, so I know I’m coming with that.
AllHipHop: Definitely. Fan-wise, who are your fans? Do you have fans? Because it’s kind of hard nowadays to catch somebody when they rising. It is. Usually they already have a ride, but I feel like you are creating fans and bringing them.
Poiison: I feel like I’m at a massive workout right now. I’m just going up the stairs, feel me? I’m meeting people. I’m connecting people with people, and it’s just different people now. It is still the same people that were listening to me three years ago, but yeah, it’s like new people and I’m grateful for that.
AllHipHop: Who’d you grow up listening to?
Poiison: Oh, that’s a good question. Lil Wayne. Definitely Lil Wayne. I love Madonna. Lady Gaga. Yeah. I like Kevin Gates, NBA Young Boy.
Poiison:
I’m a huge [Gates] fan. I’m a huge fan. I’ve met him a few times. He’s so different. Yeah, he’s amazing. I think he’s one of those people that threaded that fine line of expression of being passionate while still being, still catching a vibe. I could appreciate that about him.
AllHipHop: So let me get from you. Wait, lemme ask you this. Do you consider yourself an MC, a rapper, or a multihyphenate? What do you consider yourself?
Poiison: I consider myself a musician. A musician. I’m a writer. I’m not the best singer, but I can sing a little bit. I know my way around instruments. I might not be at the advanced level, but I’m pretty cool in a lot of different areas.
AllHipHop: When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Poiison: Oh, that’s a good question. I thought I wanted to play basketball.
AllHipHop: Okay. Okay. I can see that from you. Yeah. Why didn’t you pursue it?
Poiison: I fell in love with music.
AllHipHop: How was it working with Styles P?
Poiison: Styles P, wow. I got a lot of love for Styles. P, that’s the big bro. Gentlemen. Super cool, super talented. There’s not much I could say, man. It was like, “I got something for you.” Send it in. Got the verse. Amazing verse. We did the video. We put out a message.
AllHipHop: Yeah, talk about that message because it’s a serious message for young girls.
Poiison: Girls. Oh yeah. “Big Boys.” Basically just that song was just, I feel like anybody can relate to that song. If you haven’t had any male figures in your life, or, not that I haven’t, but which I’m blessed. I’m blessed with that. But basically Big Boys is about not having that male figure and learning about your mistakes and how to make the right decisions. It was awesome for him to bless me and give me that brotherly advice that I needed on that.
AllHipHop: Somebody I wanted to ask you about, you had a working relationship with Sha Money. How was that working with him?
Poiison: Oh, it was dope. Sha Money is a Queen’s general, you know what I mean? He’s done so many good things for music and hip hop, and it was amazing working with him.
AllHipHop: Did you learn anything?
Poiison: We had private conversations and [he advised me] “Just keep going. Don’t get in your feelings about things.” Just good conversation from someone who’s been through it all.
AllHipHop: He definitely has kept going.
Poiison: So that’s great advice. Yeah, that’s simple. That is good advice. Sometimes it’s simple.
T-Pain has opened up about how the beginning of his career was both lucrative and costly for him in the long run.
In a candid interview with Vallejo rapper LaRussell, T-Pain opened up about the surprising and unfavorable terms of his first-ever record deal, shedding light on the challenges he faced as a young artist entering the music industry.
Reflecting on the deal, T-Pain revealed the massive discrepancy between the revenue split share he received as an artist versus what the label got in return as a part of the agreement.
“My first deal. That whole first joint was 18… Oh no, it was 85-15 in the label’s favor, 85-15.” Despite the lopsided terms, T-Pain was initially unconcerned, as he was blinded by the large sum of money he was offered. “But they gave me crazy money, so I didn’t, never even thought about it. Didn’t even think about it. I didn’t even care, bro.”
The deal was finalized quickly, and T-Pain recalled how the excitement of receiving such a significant advance overshadowed any concerns about the long-term implications.
“They straight up was like, all right, deal’s done. Here you go,” he said. However, as time passed, T-Pain began to realize the full extent of the deal’s impact on his earnings.
“Have you gotten a royalty check before? Oh yeah, a lot. I still get a lot of royalty. I’m probably never going to not get royalty checks,” T-Pain explained, but the reality soon hit hard when he reviewed the details of his contract. “I had to go look at my deal. I was like, oh, I’m about to get paid. And it was like, no, though not. And I was like, bro, there’s no way. And they were like, there’s all the way, because here’s your signature. Your stupid piece of…”
T-Pain acknowledged that his decision was driven by greed and the influence of those around him who convinced him to take the deal. “That was just from greed. And a bunch of people were like, bro, this is a lot of money. You need to take this. It was a huge advance. It was 40 million, but then 40 m’s to complete zero.”
Despite the harsh lesson learned from his first record deal, T-Pain has gone on to achieve massive success in the music industry. His debut album, 2005’s Rappa Ternt Sanga, spawned hits like “I’m Sprung” and “I’m N Luv (Wit a Stripper),” cementing his place in the music world. The album was certified gold, and T-Pain continued to dominate the charts with his signature autotune sound.
The woman who previously pled not guilty in the murder case of Ajike “AJ” Owens has been found guilty more than a year after the victim was slain.
According to a report from ABC News, Susan Lorincz has been found guilty of first-degree felony manslaughter with a firearm for the murder of her neighbor Owens. The verdict was delivered on August 16 in a dramatic courtroom showdown just before 3:00 p.m. Eastern. The ruling could land Lorincz behind bars for up to 30 years. Judge Robert Hodges has ordered her to remain in Marion County jail without bond until her sentencing. Upon hearing the verdict, Pamela Dias, Owens’ mother, could hardly contain her relief.
“Oh, God! Thank you, Jesus!” Pamela Diaz shouted as Lorincz left the courtroom. “I am very pleased with the jury, the prosecution, the verdict of the guilty. I find some peace with that verdict. I feel that, although my daughter is gone forever, the children’s mom is gone forever, but we’ve achieved some justice for Ajike.”
The fatal incident unfolded in 2023 on June 2, when Lorincz, a white woman, shot Owens, a Black mother of four, through a locked door after a dispute over children playing near Lorincz’s home. Lorincz’s defense argued she acted in self-defense, claiming she feared for her life. Owens’ youngest son reportedly witnessed Lorincz shoot his mother when the disturbance occurred.
“Ms. Owens was banging on the door telling the defendant to come out,” state attorney Rich Buxman stated in his closing argument. “Belief that there was an immediate or imminent danger was simply unreasonable.”
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Owens’ family, declared that the guilty verdict is a necessary means to a neverending fight against violence.
“This verdict is a critical step in securing justice for AJ and her family,” Ben Crump said. “While nothing can erase the pain they’ve endured, today’s decision sends a clear message that senseless violence will be met with accountability.”
The case has drawn comparisons to other high-profile shootings, such as the killing of Botham Jean by Amber Guyger in Dallas and the tragic death of Jordan Davis in Florida. These cases highlight the ongoing issues of racial tension and self-defense claims that often spark national debates on justice and equality.
As Lorincz prepares for her sentencing, the case stands as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked prejudice and violence.
Watch the report below for additional details on the case.
Blac Youngsta was arrested in October 2020 in Dallas after police found a gun in his car during a traffic stop. He was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. Youngsta reportedly turned down a pre-trial diversion program before prosecutors ended up dropping the case.
The Memphis-bred rapper was already a convicted felon at the time of his arrest, making it illegal for him to possess a firearm. According to TMZ, the judge dismissed his case much to the relief of his attorney Carl A. Moore, who praised the District Attorney’s Office for the decision.
Blac Youngsta has been arrested multiple times on weapons charges. In May 2017, he was arrested in connection with a shooting involving Young Dolph in Charlotte, North Carolina. He turned himself in after warrants were issued for his arrest. He was charged with multiple counts, including discharging a weapon into an occupied property and felony conspiracy.
Two years later, police say Youngsta claimed a bag containing two semi-automatic pistols in his car belonged to him, and said he had prohibited ammunition with him.
Blac Youngsta began his music career in the early 2010s, releasing a series of mixtapes that helped him gain local recognition in Memphis. His breakthrough came with the 2014 mixtape Fast Bricks 3, which led to a deal with Collective Music Group (CMG). He gained wider recognition with the subsequent releases of “Heavy,” Hip Hopper” featuring Lil Yachty and “Booty,” which went viral on social media.
He’s released several studio albums, including 223 (2018) and Church on Sunday (2019). In January, he dropped his latest album, Blac Youngsta Presents: Heavy Camp, Checkmate a collaborative effort featuring Heavy Camp artists Lil Migo, Trapionn and Cy Yung. The album consists of 11 tracks, showcasing a mix of street anthems and emotional tracks, with Blac Youngsta handling the closer, “Loyal.”
DJ Quik considered filing a class action lawsuit against Instagram and others on Friday (August 16). The West Coast Hip-Hop legend believed Instagram violated his First Amendment rights.
“I think the time has come for me to file a class action lawsuit against this and other social media platforms for violating my first amendment rights,” DJ Quik wrote on Instagram. I said what I said. And after, close this account altogether.”
DJ Quik expressed frustration with social media censorship in the past. He complained about Instagram saying he used language “that attacks a person or a group of people based on who they are” in July. The acclaimed rapper/producer posted a screenshot of what he wrote.
“I just cut off a fool I grew up with recently,” DJ Quik’s post read. “I spoke to the n#### at length to give him a chance to cut the b####### and to stop deposing me about some s### he heard. I should’ve never been putting these fools names in my early records.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/C9-N3KEvC_0
DJ Quik assumed the warning was related to the way he spelled the n-word. He changed the spelling in a subsequent post.
“Spellcheck for the gram,” he wrote in the caption.
DJ Quik already stopped using Twitter (X), noting how he no longer goes “viral” for negativity in 2023. Quik told fans he was glad he abandoned the platform, which was bought by Elon Musk in 2022.
LL Cool J is cautiously considering the idea of a documentary or biopic chronicling his life, but he remains hesitant.
The Hip-Hop luminary, speaking to Entertainment Tonight, admitted he’s not rushing into such a project due to personal dislikes.
“I’m open to it but I’m not gonna lie, it bores me a little bit,” said LL Cool J. “I don’t know, I have mixed emotions about it, I don’t know. I just have a lot to do creatively and I feel like I could do a lot. It’s not that I’m against it. I’m open to doing a documentary, I’m open to the idea of doing a biopic but it just doesn’t excite me.”
Despite his reluctance, he asserted that his journey in Hip-Hop and other creative endeavors is anything but dull.
“It’s kind of like me turning around in the mirror with my jeans on and looking at myself. I don’t know what that means, I don’t do that a lot,” he quipped.
LL Cool J’s ambivalence stands in contrast to his colleague Snoop Dogg, who is currently developing his own biographical film and has shown interest in producing a similar project about LL Cool J.
The two Hip-Hop icons have briefly discussed the possibility.
“Only under the condition that he actually plays me,” LL joked, responding to Snoop Dogg’s casual proposal. “I need Snoop to be me in the biopic. You can produce it if you do that!”
As an established figure in Hip-Hop, LL Cool J’s story has potential to captivate audiences.
But for now, his energies remain focused on his dynamic array of creative pursuits.
Whether audiences will see a biopic or documentary of his life soon remains uncertain, but the idea is not entirely off the table.
T.I. just predicted Young Thug will have a major comeback if he beats his YSL RICO case in his recent birthday shout-out to slime—and now it appears as though the dismissal of his case could be on the horizon.
Along with artists such as Gunna, T.I took a moment on Friday (August 16), to acknowledge the Atlanta rapper’s 33rd trip around the sun, despite his confinement in Cobb County Corrections. In the caption of the post he shared on Instagram, T.I. recognized nearly all of Thug’s aliases while also providing a spark of positivity and support for his “About The Money” collaborator.
“Happy Birthday 2 my brother 4L King Spyda / Super Slizzy / Mr. Cleveland Ave / Thugga Thugga / The Iconic Prolific Legend himself Lil Jeff,” T.I. wrote in the caption. “Keep standing solid & Stay strong homie. Every storm will run out of rain & I can see a major comeback happening‼️
“Can’t wait for u 2 touch back down so you can go put that uggglass s### on and I can send yo musty ass back to da dressing room wit that cheap ass b####### u be wearing….Tuh. Ain’t no question or no guessing in it jack!!! YKWTFGO wit US U DIGGG. #FamilyTies. @thuggerthugger1.”
Whether or not T.I. was aware of it at the time he shared the post, his prediction for Thug’s freedom began tipping the scales toward prophetic due to the recent statement shared by the Republican Fulton County District Attorney nominee Courtney Kramer.
While it could be considered as a campaign pressure tactic, Kramer has challenged DA Fani Willis to dismiss the YSL RICO case immediately. Kramer has boldly promised to end the prosecution on her own should she beat Willis in the race for the seat for Fulton County DA.
Part of Kramer’s driving force behind the initiative is the theory that the ongoing YSL RICO trial, which is the longest in state history, is using valuable tax dollars that should be used to process backlogged rape kits from sex crime cases.
Check out T.I.’s birthday shout-out post above and peep the official press release from the district attorney nominee below.
NEW: Statement from Courtney Kramer, who is challenging Fani Willis for the position of Fulton County DA
She promises that, if elected, her first official action would be to DISMISS THE YSL CASE IMMEDIATELY. She is putting pressure on Fani Willis to do the same.@KramerForGApic.twitter.com/mXEjjA7wKq
The conversation about gender representation in comedy took center stage when 50 Cent and comedian Luenell found themselves in a social media exchange over her exclusion from his “Humor & Harmony Weekend” comedy festival.
Luenell voiced her dissatisfaction over the absence of female comedians in the lineup, accusing the event of perpetuating the male-dominated landscape of comedy.
Luenell shared her disappointment, noting that no female comedians were invited to participate.
“I want to say that the game is still so misogynistic because I just heard about this Comedy Festival that my dear friend 50 is having right now… and there were several comedians on the plane, but not one female comic. Not one,” Luenell said.
She emphasized the need for fair representation since both men and women attend these shows.
Luenell insisted her commentary wasn’t rooted in personal grievance, explaining she is “booked and busy” herself, but rather advocating on behalf of other deserving female comics.
She highlighted the importance of gender balance in comedy, stating, “How can you expect women, who buy a lot of tickets, to sit and listen to man after man after man after man after man?”
The comedian called attention to the persistent stereotype that men are inherently funnier than women, a view she believes hampers women’s opportunities in the industry.
“The assumption is that men are funnier than women… but that’s the assumption that’s been perpetrated,” she added.
To back her point, Luenell listed several female comedians who could have been included, such as Takara, Ivon Orji, Zayna Johnson, and Vanessa FR. She described it as “hurtful” that none of these women were deemed worthy of being part of the festival.
50 Cent responded to Luenell’s remarks with a mix of defense and acknowledgment.
“Proof you can’t make everybody happy,” he posted online. “Love Luenell’s work that’s why had them put her in ‘Ghost.’ We saw her big ass was booked already, so we didn’t reach out. You think [we] didn’t want Monique, Sommore or Amy Schumer they on FIRE WTF.”
Nicki Minaj has reportedly settled her 2022 lawsuit against vlogger Marley Green, who goes by “Nosey Heaux” on social media.
Minaj filed the lawsuit after Green accused the rapper of being a “cokehead” and other outrageous claims. According to court documents shared by reporter Meghann Cuniff, Green was forced to apologize to Minaj, admit she fabricated the story and refrain from mentioning Minaj and cocaine or she’ll be slapped with a fine.
In the settlement, Green conceded never had any evidence of Nicki Minaj using or abusing cocaine or any other illicit drug. Consequently, she must refrain from talking about Minaj’s husband, Kenneth Petty, or their child. She also can’t re-tweet anything that paints Minaj in a negative light. If Green breaches the agreement, she’ll have to pay Minaj $50,000 for each violation.
“‘Heaux acknowledges and admits that (a) any and all statements which she has ever made about Maraj using and/or abusing cocaine were false,” the docs read. ““Heaux hereby apologizes…” Green has agreed to never say anything about Minaj being “engaged in conduct which reflects poorly on Maraj’s integrity.”
Nicki Minaj filed the defamation lawsuit against Marley Green in September 2022. She alleged Green had made derogatory and false statements about her, including the cocaine allegation. The lawsuit sought damages for the harm caused to Minaj’s reputation. Minaj and her legal team stated that Green’s remarks were baseless and intended to tarnish her public image.
Green responded to Nicki Minaj’s defamation lawsuit by denying the allegations and standing by her statements. Green argued that her comments were protected under free speech and claimed she was being unfairly targeted for expressing her opinions. She also stated that Minaj was using her platform and influence to intimidate and silence critics.
Green initially didn’t back down and maintained she had the right to voice her thoughts and opinions, even if they were controversial. Her response framed the lawsuit as an attempt by a powerful celebrity to suppress dissenting voices.
After Green’s response, Minaj and her legal team took further steps to pursue the case. They doubled down on their claims, emphasizing that Green’s statements weren’t just opinions but false and defamatory allegations that caused harm to Minaj’s reputation. Minaj’s team sought to demonstrate that Green’s remarks were made with malicious intent and without any factual basis.
Minaj’s lawyers continued to push for damages and possibly a court-ordered retraction of the statements. Their actions sent a strong message about the consequences of making defamatory statements, particularly against public figures like Minaj. The legal proceedings highlighted Minaj’s commitment to protecting her reputation and holding those accountable, who she believed were spreading harmful falsehoods.
Blue Ivy Carter, the 12-year-old daughter of Beyoncé and Jay-Z, is taking Hollywood by storm with her starring role in the upcoming film “Lion King” prequel and she’s already drawing widespread acclaim for her acting chops.
“She did a wonderful job bringing this character ‘Kiara’ to life,” director Barry Jenkins told ET. “I’m really proud of her, really proud of the work she did.”
Her journey to this role traces back to her impressive narration of the audiobook for Matthew Cherry’s “Hair Love.”
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“As we were thinking of who could play this character, I thought, ‘Oh, this is it. She’s the right age, the right vibe,'” the director shared. “Let’s test it out.’ She was just tremendous.”
Despite her youth, Blue Ivy has delivered a performance marked by unexpected depth.
Her portrayal includes several emotional scenes that highlight her potential as a young thespian.
“There are some things she does in this film that are really emotional,” Barry Jenkins added. “She’s a thespian.”
Notably, Blue Ivy wasn’t cast because of her famous lineage. The filmmakers emphasized her talent was the only criterion.
“It had nothing to do with mom and dad,” the director explained. “She was the right young woman for the job.”
While she doesn’t sing in the film, her acting talent more than compensates, as her depiction of Kiara is set to leave a lasting impact on audiences.
“I think the relationship she has with her mother is very much embedded in the film,” Jenkins added.
Rick Ross paid tribute to Nipsey Hussle on what would have been his 39th birthday (August 15). In the process, he gave Nip’s brother Blacc Sam his flowers, too.
Rick Ross took to Instagram today to honor the late rapper and entrepreneur by highlighting his legacy, both in his living ancestors and the impact of the work he left behind. In his heartfelt message, Ross reflected on the immense lineage Nipsey left behind, praising the enduring influence of his work and spirit.
“Today my woe Nipsey Hussle would’ve been 39 years old,” Rick Ross began. “Man, The marathon continues.”
Ross extended his respects to Nipsey’s brother, Blacc Sam, who’s been at the helm of the empire he helped Nip build since his passing in 2019. Ross emphasized how not many could have maintained and elevated Nipsey’s vision the way Blacc Sam and the rest of The Marathon Clothing (TMC) crew have done in Nip’s absence.
“Salute to Blacc Sam, the whole TMC family, the squad,” Ross said, acknowledging the dedication of Nipsey’s family and team in keeping his legacy alive. It’s not many people would’ve held that empire up and made sure it elevated the way it has, man. So I’m sure Nip, he’s smiling, the bro’s smiling.”
Ross went on to express deep admiration for Nipsey’s vision and character, detailing how prolific of a mind the West Coast lyricist was.
“He was a legend,” he said. “He was way advanced. Way too advanced for lame n###as, man. That boy was on some other s##t 10 years ago.”
Ross concluded his tribute with a call-to-action, urging fans to stream Nipsey’s acclaimed project TheMarathon. “So you know what it is, man. Everybody stream the marathon,” he said, rallying support for the body of work that continues to inspire countless fans.
Throughout their careers, Nipsey Hussle and Rick Ross collaborated on numerous tracks and their connection ran deep, forged by a shared belief in ownership, community-building, and elevating the culture. Whether it was the celebrated track “Proud of That” or their work on “Millionaire’s Row,” the chemistry between Nipsey and Ross was undeniable.
Beyoncé makes waves with an impressive 12 nominations at the People’s Choice Country Awards in Nashville on September 26, despite initial backlash over her shift to country music.
At 42, she received nods for Female Song of the Year for her singles “16 Carriages” and “Texas Hold’ Em.”
Her adaptations of the Beatles’ “Blackbird” and Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” secured her spots in the Cover Song category.
“Texas Hold’ Em” is a contender for Song of the Year, while “BLACKBIIRD,” featuring up-and-coming country artist Brittney Spencer, competes for Collaboration Song of the Year.
Furthermore, her duet with Miley Cyrus, “II Most Wanted,” earned a nomination for Crossover Song of the Year, while “16 Carriages” aims for Storyteller Song of the Year.
Beyoncé herself is nominated for People’s Artist and Social Country Star.
Receiving critique when she ventured into the country genre, Beyoncé faced mixed reactions, with rapper Azealia Banks, 33, tweeting, “Yes, black girls can make country music… but you’re just really not hitting the button… Beyoncé please stop the madness” after Cowboy Carter was announced.
Country icon Shania Twain is set to host the awards, promising a night of “big hair, glamour, rhinestones, hats, boots and incredible performances.”
The stiff sentence is controversial because Baby K is only 16 years old.
The grim details were recounted. Baby K, who was 14 at the time, along with two associates, confronted another 14-year-old on the bus, aiming to execute a deadly plan.
Two teenagers restrained the victim while Baby K attempted to fire a gun three times, but technical failures spared the intended target’s life.
He pleaded guilty to various charges, including attempted first-degree murder, and faced the court’s strictest penalty.
“Anybody that saw the video and saw how close we came to losing a life on a public school bus, I’m sure was horrified, I’m sure that they were frightened when they saw this….I hope that this sentence brings some measure of peace and some measure of closure to the victims as well as the community,” Deputy Chief James McCreery said during a press conference.
Judge Michael Whelan emphasized Baby K’s past transgressions and the premeditated nature of the crime as pivotal factors in the sentencing.
Despite previous engagements with the juvenile justice system and orders for mental health and substance counseling, the teen had repeatedly failed to comply, which further justified the judge’s decision to try him as an adult.
The decision to sentence him as an adult also stemmed from a belief that the juvenile system had been ineffective in rehabilitating him.
“25 years—that is a significant sentence; it’s top of the guidelines and it was appropriate in this case because of the planning, the deliberation, the execution of what he wanted, which was to murder a child,” State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy added.
DJ Quik isn’t going to stand for any DeVante Swing slander on his watch and has issued a message in response to Stevie J’s recent shady allegations about the vocalist.
In a recent Facebook post, DJ Quik came out swinging in defense of his longtime friend and R&B legend, dismissing recent allegations made by Stevie J. In an explosive interview, Stevie J claimed that Swing had assaulted one of his artists—a charge DJ Quik was quick to label as baseless. In the message he shared from Swing’s official FB page, Quick took Stevie J to task for alleging the Jodeci producer has ever, or would ever, put his hands on someone—let alone another artist.
“I gotta share my two cents on what Stevie J shared in an interview about DeVanté Swing slapping his artist—that s##t sounds made up.” DJ Quik wrote in the post. “I think Stevie J’s got some serious jealousy issues when it comes to DeVanté’s talent and success.”
Quik, who has know Swing for years and considers him a close friend, was adamant about the ill-willed nature of Stevie J’s claims as he continued. Given his allegiance to the 90s R&B savant, he didn’t hold back in criticizing Stevie J, suggesting that the allegations stem from deeper issues the producer-turned-reality-tv-star has with the limelight Swing has experience throughout his illustrious career.
“DeVanté’s a genius, man. He’s produced some of the biggest hits in R&B history, and he’s been doing it for decades,” he wrote. “Stevie J, on the other hand, has had some success, but he can’t touch DeVanté’s level of genius.”
Quik’s post went on to accuse Stevie J of having long-standing vendetta against Swing, which he believes has motivated him to speak negatively about him any chance he gets.
“Stevie J’s been trying to discredit DeVanté for years. He’s always talking trash about him in interviews, trying to make him look bad,” he claimed. “But at the end of the day, DeVanté’s still the one with the hits, the awards, and the respect of the industry.”
In closing, DJ Quik reassured his fans, “So, to all my fans out there, don’t believe the hype. Stevie J’s just a hater, and DeVanté Swing is the real MVP.”
The roots of the feud trace back several years, marked by competitive tensions and public spats between the two producers. In 2017, Stevie J appeared on the Drink Champs podcast where he alleged Swing smacked Missy Elliot, Timbaland and Ginuwine when they were all a part of his imprint Mob label.
Nicki Minaj announced the openers for her Pink Friday 2 World Tour’s second leg on Friday (August 16). The diamond-selling rapper enlisted Tyga and Bia, who released a Cardi B diss track two months ago, for the Gag City Reloaded Tour.
“#GagCityReloaded will be a beautiful, magical dream come true,” Minaj wrote on Instagram. “Better than the 1st half & that wasn’t easy to do. New looks, set list changes, other secrets, ummmm new music? Lemme think about it. Thank you to the team doing this with me again. They’re simply the best. To the guest artists who will come out in their cities, thank you in advance; and to these 3 TALENTS (who I have so much love & respect for) for taking the G6 to #GAGCITY just for the Barbz & me. @tyga @bia @skillibeng. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!”
She added, “Barbz, we’ve already made history prior to LEG 2. TOP 10 in HIPHOP TOURS OF ALL TIME already. To everyone who came out on the first leg to support: GOD BLESS YOU. I LOVE YOU. I DO. Come back.”
Nicki’s booking of Bia added a new wrinkle to the Harajuku Barbie’s longstanding issues with Cardi B. Bia enraged Cardi B by allegedly spreading infidelity rumors. Cardi B threatened to sue Bia.
“I’ma sue you and you got to come with receipts,” Cardi B declared. “And not social media receipts, court receipts. I will get every little f###### red penny that you ever f###### make b####. Every money that you make off your publishing. So, find something safe to do.”
Bia responded by releasing the diss track “SUE MEEE?” in June.
“Put it on your hubby since you love lying on your vows/I write all my verses, I can do this s### for hours/I be damned I let a n#### f### a b#### inside my house/Your money long and you split that, your n#### saying that’s ours,” Bia rapped.
Cardi B hasn’t filed a lawsuit against Bia as of yet.
