50 Cent is opening up on his beef with Diddy and his plans for a docuseries covering the multiple allegations of sexual assault, trafficking and other misdeeds associated with the fallen Hip-Hop mogul.
During a cover story for The Hollywood Reporter, the G-Unit boss said he stayed away from anything concerning Diddy over the years because of the “uncomfortable energy” surrounding him.
He also insisted they were not friends – “It was mostly work” and he would avoid his calls. “I didn’t ever party or hang out with him,” 50 Cent said of Diddy. “Puff is a businessperson”
50 Cent has been a thorn in Diddy’s side since long before the slew of recent lawsuits. He explained that he’s making a docuseries on the disgraced mogul because “I’m the only one from hip-hop culture that’s produced quality projects.”
50 Cent On Diddy’s Associates’ Silence
Elsewhere in the interview, 50 Cent said he believes some of Diddy’s associates are afraid to speak up because they were complicit in his alleged crimes.
“Some of them were involved, at the parties and enjoyed themselves,” he said. ”They don’t know what the f### is on tape or what’s not on tape, so they’re not going to say anything because they might have had too much fun.”
He also acknowledged that some are just minding their business while others don’t want to be labeled a snitch.
“It’s not uncomfortable for me to say what I said,” Fiddy insisted. “Because I’ve been saying this s### for four years, five years. I been telling you, “I don’t f### with him. I don’t like the way he moving. This is a little crazy.” Everybody else is not going to be as comfortable as I am saying it.”
When asked if he had spoken to Power Book II: Ghost star and close friend of Diddy, Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent remarked, “You know what? Mary never reached out to me to tell me to not f### up Puffy, because she knows that he does s###.”
Waka Flocka Flame is pledging his full support for Donald Trump in the upcoming 2024 Presidential Election later this year.
The rapper said he isn’t your typical political advocate, nor does he wear a MAGA hat, but he’s fully behind the former president’s campaign for re-election.
On Wednesday (July 31) Waka Flocka endorsed Donald Trump and explained why the 34-time convicted felon has his support.
“Trump still my president he tweeted. “I don’t have to stand with a red hat or dance or stage for money in my pockets.” He insisted he wasn’t pushed into backing Trump, adding, “This is my choice.”
Waka Flocka believes he should be free to express his political opinions without fear of attack. “Like I choose not to eat pork,” he added. “But do that make me hate pork lovers or disrespect their character.”
Waka continued, “I just want my rights. My freedom, equality, men/women to pay for bad policing, women to have rights and make choices for self, teachers to be paid more, and the list goes on but hey I’m just a lil o entertainer with a micro voice I know no1 is listening.”
Waka Flocka has been a very vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump for years. He made headlines last month after telling Joe Biden voters to leave his concert in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Chris Brown’s attorney claims the men suing his client set him up, branding the lawsuit a shakedown.
Four men are accusing the R&B star of assaulting them backstage at a concert in Fort Worth, Texas, on Saturday (July 20). A security guard also filed a $15 million lawsuit for injuries he suffered in the alleged brawl and claimed Brown threw the first punch.
However, Brown’s attorney, Levi G. McCathern, said the men provoked the singer, who was not the aggressor.
“Why were these individuals even backstage anywhere near Chris’ dressing room?” McCathern questioned in a statement obtained by TMZ. “Their sole purpose was to provoke him and his team, and to build a record for a lawsuit.”
The attorney continued, “Most of us are not pop stars, so the only place we have to dress is our home; our personal space. Imagine what reaction YOU would have if someone invaded YOUR personal space with the singular goal of provoking difficulties? Even in this challenging circumstance, Chris never initiated physical contact with anyone.”
McCathern claims one of the plaintiffs, a personal injury attorney, “approached Chris Brown and began provoking a reaction.” He branded the men trouble makers with “a clear agenda,” insisting they “are directly responsible for the situation that ensued.”
McCathern also questioned the speed at which the men filed their lawsuit.
“Chris was unjustly targeted in this incident,” the attorney stated. “These individuals saw him as an opportunity for financial gain and should never have been permitted backstage in the first place. The whole episode was clearly a set up.”
Additionally, the outlet reports Chris Brown’s attorney believes a video of the incident exists which will likely help his defense.
Kamala Harris has responded to Donald Trump’s claims about her racial identity after he claimed that she suddenly “became a Black person.”
The presumptive Democratic presidential nominee called out her political rival for his remarks before the National Association of Black Journalists on Wednesday (July 31).
Harris addressed the crowd at a gathering of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority in Houston, claiming Trump’s remarks were divisive and disrespectful.
“It was the same old show,” she said of Trump’s appearance with the NABJ panel. “The divisiveness and the disrespect. And let me just say, the American people deserve better … The American people deserve a leader who tells the truth. A leader who does not respond with hostility and anger when confronted with the facts. We deserve a leader who understands that our differences do not divide us – they are an essential source of our strength.”
Vice President Harris: This afternoon, Donald Trump spoke at the annual meeting of the National Association of Black Journalists and it was the same old show. The divisiveness and the disrespect. The American people deserve better. The American people deserve a leader who tells… pic.twitter.com/3LLTGv4FU7
Donald Trump Questioned When Kamala Harris “Happened To Turn Black”
During the convention, Trump implied that Harris “could be” a DEI hire, a term that has become a racist dog whistle in right-wing circles.
“I didn’t know she was Black until a number of years ago when she happened to turn Black,” Trump said of Harris. “And now she wants to be known as Black. So, I don’t know. Is she Indian or is she Black? I respect either one, but she obviously doesn’t because she was Indian all the way and then all of a sudden, she made a turn. She became a Black person. I think somebody should look into that.”
Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre slammed Trump’s remarks.
“As a person of color, as a Black woman who is in this position,” she explained, “What he just said, what you just read out to me is repulsive. It’s insulting.”
When asked about Trump's comments at the NABJ convention about Kamala Harris "becoming Black" during today's White House press briefing White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre laughed and said, "It's insulting." pic.twitter.com/izjAlhkf8B
Additionally, the Harris campaign issued a statement on Trump’s comments and urged him to “stop playing games” and show up to debate on September 10.
“Today’s tirade is simply a taste of the chaos and division that has been a hallmark of Trump’s MAGA rallies this entire campaign,” the statement read in part. “It’s also exactly what the American people will see from across the debate stage as Vice President Harris offers a vision of opportunity and freedom for all Americans.”
Vybz Kartel enjoyed a champagne celebration following his dramatic release from prison after serving 13 years behind bars.
Celebrations rang out worldwide after the Jamaican dancehall artiste and his co-accused were released from prison on Wednesday (July 31).
Vybz was whisked away from the Tower Street Correctional Facility in Kingston, Jamaica with his fiancée Sidem Ozturk. He sent a message to the youth urging them to stay out of trouble.
He later took to social media to share a glimpse of his first hours as a free man in well over a decade. Vybz posted a video of him and his fiancée sipping champagne and sharing a kiss in the limo.
Stefflon Don paid tribute on Instagram. “The reason why many of us artist are here today the BLUEPRINT,” she wrote. “@vybzkartel1 Worl BBC BOSSSSSSSS Welcome home !!!!!!!!!!”
When we think about the most iconic gaming moments, it’s not just the graphics or gameplay that come to mind. It’s the soundtracks that have left an indelible mark on our memories. As someone who’s ever enjoyed the adrenaline rush of a high-stakes mission in GTA or the electrifying slam dunks in NBA 2K, you know that the right music can make all the difference.
Hip hop’s pulsating beats and powerful lyrics have done more than just entertain us; they’ve transformed our gaming experiences. Just like when you play blackjack and the tension rises with each card, hip-hop tracks have elevated our in-game intensity and immersion.
The Rise of Hip Hop in Gaming
The Early Days: Setting the Scene
In the early days of gaming, music was often an afterthought. The focus was primarily on gameplay mechanics and graphics. However, as gaming technology advanced, developers began to realize the potential of music to enhance the gaming experience. The introduction of CD-quality audio in games allowed for more diverse and high-quality soundtracks, paving the way for hip-hop to make its grand entrance.
When Rockstar Games released “Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas” in 2004, it was a pivotal moment for both the gaming and music industries. The game’s soundtrack featured a curated selection of hip-hop tracks from the early ’90s, transporting players into the heart of the West Coast rap scene. Tracks like “Nuthin’ But a ‘G’ Thang” by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, and “I Got 5 on It” by Luniz, not only added authenticity to the game’s setting but also introduced a whole new generation to the golden era of hip hop.
NBA 2K: The Evolution of a Soundtrack
Building the Perfect Playlist
The NBA 2K series has become synonymous with stellar soundtracks. Every year, 2K Sports collaborates with top artists to create a playlist that reflects the current music scene while paying homage to the roots of hip-hop. From Kendrick Lamar to Drake, the series has consistently featured tracks that get players hyped up for a game of virtual basketball.
The Influence of Culture
The NBA 2K soundtracks do more than just provide background music; they shape the culture of the game. The inclusion of hip-hop tracks reflects the close relationship between basketball and rap music. Both have roots in urban culture and share themes of struggle, triumph, and self-expression. As you navigate your MyPlayer through the highs and lows of an NBA career, the music serves as a powerful reminder of these shared stories.
Def Jam Vendetta: A Hip Hop Brawler
A Fusion of Music and Combat
“Def Jam Vendetta” and its sequels took the concept of hip-hop in gaming to another level. These fighting games, developed by EA Sports, featured real-life rappers as playable characters, complete with their signature moves and styles. The soundtracks, filled with tracks from artists like DMX, Method Man, and Redman, provided the perfect backdrop for the gritty, street-style combat.
Bringing the Hip-Hop Community Together
These games were more than just fun; they were a celebration of the hip-hop community. By featuring actual artists and their music, “Def Jam Vendetta” brought the culture of hip-hop into the gaming world in a way that had never been done before. It wasn’t just about the music; it was about the lifestyle and the community that hip-hop represents.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater: Skating to a New Beat
Mixing Genres
While primarily known for its punk and rock tracks, the “Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater” series also incorporated hip-hop into its soundtracks, creating a diverse musical experience. Tracks like “B-Boy Document ’99” by The High & Mighty and “Out with the Old” by Alley Life introduced skaters to the world of hip-hop.
A Cultural Crossover
The inclusion of hip-hop in “Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater” was significant because it represented a cultural crossover. Skateboarding and hip hop, both born out of urban environments, share a rebellious spirit and a DIY ethos. By blending these genres, the game highlighted the interconnectedness of these cultures and expanded its appeal to a broader audience.
Need for Speed: Racing to the Beat
The Thrill of the Race
The “Need for Speed” series is known for its high-octane racing action and adrenaline-pumping soundtracks. Hip-hop tracks have always been a staple of the series, providing the perfect accompaniment to high-speed chases and heart-pounding races. Songs like “Get Low” by Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz and “Riders on the Storm” by Snoop Dogg feat. The Doors have become synonymous with the thrill of the race.
Setting the Pace
The inclusion of hip-hop in racing games like “Need for Speed” is more than just about creating a cool vibe; it’s about setting the pace. The beats and rhythms of hip-hop tracks mirror the fast-paced, high-energy nature of racing, making the experience more immersive and exciting. When you’re tearing down the highway at breakneck speeds, the right track can make you feel invincible.
Hip Hop’s Lasting Impact on Gaming
A Soundtrack for Every Era
Hip-hop has not only defined specific games but has also left a lasting impact on the gaming industry as a whole. From the early days of “GTA: San Andreas” to the latest releases of “NBA 2K,” hip-hop soundtracks have become an integral part of the gaming experience. These tracks don’t just add to the atmosphere; they help to define the era in which the games are set.
The Future of Gaming and Hip-Hop
As we look to the future, it’s clear that hip-hop will continue to play a significant role in gaming. With the rise of virtual reality and more immersive gaming experiences, the integration of music will only become more important.
Imagine exploring a virtual city with a custom hip-hop soundtrack that reacts to your every move, or competing in an eSports tournament with live performances from your favorite artists. The possibilities are endless, and the future of gaming and hip-hop looks brighter than ever.
The Beat Goes On: Celebrating the Legacy of Hip Hop in Gaming
Hip-hop soundtracks have done more than just define gaming eras; they’ve enriched our experiences, introduced us to new cultures, and brought us closer to the games we love. Whether you’re reminiscing about the days of “GTA: San Andreas” or getting hyped for a new season of “NBA 2K,” the impact of hip-hop on gaming is undeniable.
So next time you fire up your favorite game, take a moment to appreciate the beats that make it all possible. The world of gaming wouldn’t be the same without the powerful influence of hip-hop.
Megan Thee Stallion’s former friend Kelsey Harris is maintaining her innocence as a statement from Tory Lanez’s driver has stirred up conversation surrounding the 2020 shooting.
Earlier this week, Joe Budden discussed the latest developments in the case after Lanez’s legal team submitted an affidavit from his driver, Jauquan Smith, who claimed he witnessed the shooting but said the prosecution stopped him from testifying in the 2022 trial.
In his statement, Smith claimed he saw Harris holding a gun during an altercation with Megan. He claimed Lanez attempted to disarm Harris but said he did not see who shot Megan.
According to Joe Budden, who discussed the recent developments during the latest episode of his podcast, everybody present during the shooting “has reason to lie.” However, he was adamant that the gun belonged to Kelsey Harris.
He questioned whether Tory Lanez “was so angered in that car that he took Kelsey’s gun and shot her.” Budden claimed, “some people know whose gun it was … we know who’s gun that was. So he took her gun and shot her why? Why was he so mad?”
Joe Budden Claims Tory Lanez Was Set Up
Budden questioned why Lanez would shoot Megan and whether it was more likely Harris fired the gun. He also believes Lanez was set up but not by Megan Thee Stallion.
“First of all, I think it’s above her,” he explained. “I don’t think she made it up. It’s above her. She’s a mere pawn in this. This play is greater than her. She didn’t make nothing up.”
He continued, “N##### out there know who it is. I ain’t saying it on this broadcast but I know exactly who it is, I know how that gun got there, I know who gun it was.”
Budden then mentioned Kelsey Harris, claiming she reached out to him.
“I thought it was weird that the last time we talked about this s###, Kelsey jumped in my DMs talking ’bout, ‘Hey, don’t talk about this no more.’ Why? You got immunity. That’s odd.”
Joe Budden breaks down what he thinks happened between Meg and Tory. He also states he knows knows who’s gun it was and who really shot Meg. pic.twitter.com/idY0XmjFtm
— 🌺SolecialNetwork 🛡 (@SocialNetwork67) July 31, 2024
On Wednesday evening (July 31), Harris took to x (Twitter), seemingly responding to Joe Budden.
“It’s easy to get lost in the media,” she wrote. “But let’s remember MY NAME was cleared by both parties involved. Stay tuned.”
LL COOL J is giving credit where it’s due, but also making it clear that he still is in control of his pen game while addressing the swirling 50 Cent ghostwriting rumors in his latest interview.
During the Hip-Hop legend’s recently appearance on Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay Podcast, the “I Need Love” hitmaker addressed the persistent rumors that 50 Cent was hired as a ghostwriter for his song “Paradise.” While LL COOL J was quick to credit 50 Cent for his handiwork on the hook for the record, he was even quicker to emphasize his dedication to writing his own music.
“50 Cent wrote the chorus, bro,” LL COOL J confirmed. “He wrote the chorus…[sings chorus] Not, ‘We’ve been through this before, acting like the L’s can’t bag em’ no more’. He ain’t write that s##t.”
To put the situation into perspective, LL COOL J used a sports analogy comparing none other than Team USA teammates LeBron James and Kevin (KD) Durant.
“When you get to the point where you’re so, you’ve been doing it so long and you’re so prolific that they look like somebody else shot the basketball,” he said. “LeBron didn’t shoot that s##t. That was f###ing KD. Yeah, KD really shot that s##t. Or that was, yo, Steph shot that s##t.”
The clarification comes in the wake of a recent interview where 50 Cent mentioned ghostwriting while discussing his efforts to regain traction in the music industry after being dropped by Columbia Records. The mention reignited old rumors, but LL COOL J’s recent statements have firmly put those to rest.
Elsewhere in the interview, LL COOL J names his Def Jam artists rap Mount Rushmore and speaks on his thoughts being compared to artists such as Lil Wayne when it comes to the conversation about the G.O.A.T. rapper.
Producer/guitarist Josh J filed a lawsuit against Juice WRLD’s estate for unpaid royalties. According to TMZ, the plaintiff claimed he hasn’t been paid in full for his work on the late rapper’s “Girl of My Dreams” collaboration with BTS member Suga.
Josh J, whose real name is Joshua Jaramillo, produced “Girl of My Dreams” with Jaegen, Kookoo and Max Lord. The track appeared on Juice WRLD’s posthumous album Fighting Demons, which dropped in 2021.
“So grateful to be part of such a legend’s story,” Jaramillo wrote on Instagram in 2021. “Was always a dream of mine to have a song with him and it all happened in the craziest way. Long Live JW.”
Juice WRLD’s Fighting Demons album debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, selling 119,000 equivalent album units in its first week. “Girl of My Dreams” peaked at No. 29 on the Hot 100.
Jaramillo’s lawsuit said he agreed to a deal for 5 percent ownership of “Girl of My Dreams” and 1 percent of the royalties. He accused the estate of not paying him what he was owed despite multiple requests.
The producer asked the estate to reveal how much money the song has earned in his lawsuit. Jaramillo sought unspecified damages.
A different producer sued Juice WRLD’s estate in 2023. PD Beats claimed he never received proper credit or compensation for his work on the song “Not Enough,” which also appeared on the Fighting Demons album.
“Defendants have released, marketed, distributed and monetized the subject song without accrediting or providing PD Beats his proportional share of the revenue,” his lawyers argued. “Defendants have failed to meaningfully respond, necessitating this action.”
Juice WRLD, whose real name was Jarad Higgins, passed away in 2019. The Interscope Records artist died of an accidental overdose. He was 21.
Druski has finally opened up about his brief romance with Rubi Rose, revealing what he learned about himself and the “caliber” of women in his life in the process.
In a recent interview with Big Tigger, Druski described their union as a learning experience and suggested their relationship was orchestrated by a higher power.
“God blesses you sometimes with situations,” Druski commented. “It’s a learning situation, and that’s what it’s all about. There wasn’t nothing bad that happened, we just… she’s a beautiful girl. She’s doing great in life, man. She’s making money. I’m doing the same.”
Druski then remarked on his experience of discovering all that comes with dating a “beautiful” woman.
“I learned that when you got a bad b###h, you can’t really…” he stammered. “When you have a beautiful woman of that caliber, it comes with a lot and I wasn’t really … don’t know if I was prepared yet, but I learned a lot from it.”
When pressed about what he learned from the relationship, Druski humorously stated how he gained financial insight specifically from the fling. The reality of dating someone in the limelight, with expensive tastes, was a wake-up call for the comedian.
“You better have them pockets ready,” he exclaimed. “I ain’t saying that’s what happened… but you just got to be ready. You don’t know when you’re going to have to be pulling that wallet out,” he said.
Druski and Rubi Rose’s relationship reportedly began with mutual admiration and shared circles in the entertainment industry. Their brief romance was filled with memorable moments, most notably their vacation to the Dominican Republic, which doubled as their initiation into exclusivity. Unfortunately, their relationship also ended in a very public manner shortly after Druski confronted Rubi Rose for allegedly cheating on him during his stream with Kai Cenat and Kevin Hart.
Despite the challenges, Druski didn’t rule out the possibility of rekindling the romance. “I might even spin the block on this. I don’t know. I might go back and spin the block,” he teased, leaving the door open for future possibilities.
Eminem threatened to bail on the Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show if 50 Cent wasn’t part of the performance, according to the G-Unit rapper. 50 Cent said Roc Nation opposed his participation in the star-studded event in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
“They wanted to leave me out of it,” he noted. “They didn’t want me there.”
Roc Nation produces the Super Bowl Halftime Show in partnership with the NFL. Jay-Z’s company booked Dr. Dre, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, Mary J. Blige and Snoop Dogg to perform at the Super Bowl in California in 2022. 50 Cent and Anderson .Paak also performed, but the two weren’t announced before the event.
“Eminem wouldn’t do it without me,” 50 Cent said. “That’s how I ended up on the show because he was not coming if I didn’t do it. When that happens, you go, ‘Damn, so you just lost Eminem because you didn’t bring 50? Damn. All right. Bring 50 then.’ But if it was up to them, they would not have me there. I’m the surprise. I’m not on the bill at all. But they couldn’t get Em to do it without me.”
50 Cent won an Emmy for his role in the Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show. The victory didn’t quell his frustrations with the Television Academy, which has never nominated his show Power or any of its spinoffs for awards.
“It does not make sense,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “The easiest way to point it out to the public is the actual facts. When the show is clearly No. 1 in African American households, if you don’t want to acknowledge it, you don’t want to acknowledge African Americans and Latinos. It’s a choice. I don’t know if it’s OK, but it’s a choice.”
50 Cent is preparing to host the first Humor & Harmony festival in Shreveport, Louisiana on August 8-11. Shreveport is the new home of G-Unit Studios.
Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel and his co-accused were released from prison on Wednesday (July 31) after serving 13 years behind bars. According to the Jamaica Observer, the Court of Appeal ruled against retrying the men for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams, resulting in their release.
The court stated, “We conclude that the interest of justice does not require a new trial to be ordered.” It added there was sufficient evidence to suggest Kartel wouldn’t be able to complete a potentially longer sentence if there were to be a retrial, citing the “psychological and financial effects that it would have on the appellants.”
Kartel’s defense also made note of the severe lockdown conditions he’s been in since 2011, describing his holding as a brick cell with no air circulation, no water and a bucket for a toilet.
“His neck was swollen,” an attorney told FOX 5. “If you think of a shirt that is about 18.5 inches in the neck area, you couldn’t close the collar on his neck and that’s how bad it is in this moment. His face is actually swollen. And one other thing. He always wears glasses; in this condition, that causes his eyes to protrude.”
Aa sworn medical affidavit from Kartel’s private doctor in 2023 notified authorities that his Graves’ Disease and heart condition were getting worse, and that if he didn’t get surgery soon, he could die.
Vybz Kartel, who has collaborated with everyone from JAY-Z to Rihanna, won his appeal in a London court in March 14. Kartel has been held a Jamaican jail since 2011 over the disappearance of Williams, whose body has never been recovered.
Kartel and three others—Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones and Andre St. John—were convicted in 2014 following a 64-day trial in Kingston, one of the longest in Jamaican history. He was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum of 35 years, although that term was later reduced on appeal to 32-and-a-half years.
Kartel maintained his innocence since Williams’ disappearance. But during the trial, prosecutors provided what they deemed a key piece of evidence: a text message said to be sent from Kartel’s phone that claimed Williams had been chopped up into so many pieces his body would never be found.
Donald Trump controversially appeared at the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) convention in Chicago on Wednesday (July 31). Trump attacked ABC News’ Rachel Scott when she questioned why Black voters should trust him during a panel discussion.
“I don’t think I’ve ever been asked a question in such a horrible manner,” Trump said. “A first question. You don’t even say hello, how are you? Are you with ABC? Because I think they’re a fake news network, a terrible network. And I think it’s disgraceful that I came here in good spirit. I love the Black population of this country. I’ve done so much for the Black population of this country.”
Trump claimed he was invited to the convention under false pretenses. He bashed Scott and the NABJ for the interview running late.
“I have been the best president for the Black population since Abraham Lincoln,” he said. “That’s my answer. That’s my answer. And for you to start off a question-and-answer period, especially when you’re 35 minutes late because you couldn’t get your equipment to work, in such a hostile manner, I think it’s a disgrace.”
The NABJ crowd gasped and laughed at many of Trump’s answers throughout the interview. He disputed his opponent Kamala Harris’ Blackness and suggested she “could be” a DEI hire, which has become a racist dog whistle in right-wing politics.
“I didn’t know she was Black until a number of years ago when she happened to turn Black,” Trump said of Harris. “And now she wants to be known as Black. So, I don’t know. Is she Indian or is she Black? I respect either one, but she obviously doesn’t because she was Indian all the way and then all of a sudden, she made a turn. She became a Black person. I think somebody should look into that.”
Trump baffled the crowd of Black journalists by telling them “a lot of the journalists in this room are Black.” He also attempted to explain what he meant when he said undocumented immigrants were taking “Black jobs.”
“Coming from the border are millions and millions of people who happen to be taking Black jobs,” he said. “A Black job is anybody that has a job. That’s what it is. Anybody that has a job. They’re taking the employment away from Black people.”
Trump’s attendance at the NABJ convention outraged many of the organization’s members. Washington Post columnist Karen Attiah stepped down as co-chair of the convention due to NABJ leadership’s decision to platform Trump.
DJ Shortkut—real name Jonathan Cruz—is in need of financial assistance after suffering a near-fatal stroke. The Beat Junkies/Invisibl Skratch Piklz turntablist is currently on the road to recovery, but the medical bills are piling up. Shortkut’s family have set up a GoFundMe in hopes of raising $60,000 to help with the mounting costs of rehab.
“On behalf of our brother Jonathan Cruz, also known as DJ Shortkut, who recently suffered a life-altering stroke, we are reaching out for your support,” the description reads. “On July 1, the day after an amazing performance at the Hollywood Bowl, Jon’s life changed unexpectedly when he suffered a hemorrhagic stroke. This incident has caused body paralysis, vision loss, speech difficulties, and cognitive and sensory medical complications. Many of you know, Shortkut is a passionate, multi-talented DJ Entertainer. Music has always been his life, so the inability to stand and utilize his hands has been challenging.
It continues, “The journey to recovery is a long and difficult one. Shortkut requires specialized rehabilitation, including physical and occupational therapy, to regain as much function as possible. Currently, Jon’s full-time job needs to be rehabilitation and rest. He is healing one day at a time, so what happens next is of vital importance. As a self-employed DJ Entertainer, time off work simply means loss of earnings and financial vulnerability.”
Shortkut’s family ensures those who donate that the money will go toward “costs of medical bills, rehabilitation, medications, medical equipment, home modifications, living expenses and ongoing medical care.”
At the time of publication, the family has raised more than $50,000 with fellow turntablists Rob Swift, Z-Trip and DJ Nu-Mark being among the biggest donors. Social media has also lit up with posts encouraging people to chip in. From DJ Numark and the Invisibl Skratch Piklz to DJ Spinna and Mix Master Mike, Shortkut has an army of peers trying to help him.
And it goes beyond the GoFundMe. The Invisibl Skratch Piklz are holding a fundraising event on Sunday (August 4) at Victory Hall in San Francisco, the first of many. Find the GoFundMe here.
Diddy faced the threat of another lawsuit. According to Page Six, Tupac Shakur’s family is considering a wrongful death lawsuit against the embattled mogul.
“People from Diddy’s past are coming forward and providing info,” a source told Page Six.
Tupac’s relatives recruited Jay-Z’s lawyer Alex Spiro, attorney Christopher Clore and a team of investigators to explore longstanding rumors of Diddy’s involvement in the late rapper’s 1996 murder.
Diddy, whose real name is Sean Combs, was under scrutiny due to the claims of Tupac murder suspect Duane “Keefe D” Davis. Keefe D implicated the Bad Boy Records founder in past statements to police.
Keefe D was arrested for his alleged role in Tupac’s murder in 2023. Keefe D’s trial is scheduled to begin in November. Nevada prosecutors highlighted his accusations against Diddy in a July 18 court filing.
“[Davis] has asserted publicly that he only told on himself and wasn’t trying to provide evidence against anyone else in his conversations with police,” prosecutors wrote. “However, this statement belies this claim, as he suggested that Sean Combs paid Eric Von Martin a million dollars for the killings as well as offered to set up a surreptitious phone call with Terrence Brown, the driver, who, at the time, was still alive. “
Keefe D implicated Diddy well over a decade ago, but no charges were ever filed. Diddy has denied any involvement in Tupac’s murder for years.
“Any suggestion of an indictment for Mr. Combs is irresponsible and unfounded,” a source told AllHipHop. “The notion that prosecutors have evidence that Diddy paid Davis is categorically false and defamatory.”
A lawsuit from Tupac’s family would add to Diddy’s mounting legal issues. Multiple women and producer Lil Rod sued him for sexual assault, among other claims, over the past nine months.
Diddy is also under federal investigation for sex trafficking allegations. A grand jury reportedly started hearing evidence in his case.
Kanye West announced a new release date for his Vultures 2album with Ty Dolla $ign. The controversial rapper/producer said the project would drop on Friday (August 2).
“ALL ORDERS FULFILLED,” he declared on his Yeezy website. “VULTURES 2 COMING AUGUST 2ND.”
Vultures 2 has been delayed for months. The album is the second entry in a planned trilogy.
Kanye and Ty Dolla $ign postponed Vulture 2 to explore alternative ways to release it. Ye sought to avoid streaming services in favor of a direct-to-consumer model. Ty said he was letting Kanye handle the album’s distribution.
“Why not?” Ty Dolla $ign told Billboard when asked about selling Vultures 2 directly to fans. “Switch it up. He’s always got something up his sleeve. I always got some[thing] up my sleeve.”
Kanye and Ty Dolla $ign dropped Vultures 1 in February. It debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.
Vultures 1 experienced several delays before its release. The sequel was supposed to drop in March with a third album due in April.
The schedule didn’t pan out as Kanye and Ty Dolla $ign pushed Vultures 2 back to May. Fans were left empty-handed when May came and went with no album.
“We got all the songs,” Ty Dolla $ign said. “Basically, it’s just like, ‘How can we get it there? How can we go bigger than the first album?’”
According to Rich the Kid, Kanye West pondered retirement in July.
“I am retiring from professional music,” Ye wrote to Rich. “Not sure what else to do.”
Rich replied, “Retire? Why? How? The ppl NEED you the music you & Ty & we have made the BIGGEST STAMP in culture to this date in 2024.”
The retirement talk was a stunt to promote Rich’s latest album Life’s a Gamble. Kanye contributed to two tracks on the project.
Cardi B is hitting back at criticism of her latest collab with Rob49, amid claims the single flopped.
According to the NYC hitmaker, her “flops” do more than her peer’s biggest hits. Furthermore, she accused others of using her as a marketing plan.
On Monday (July 29) Cardi B responded to an X (Twitter) user who said her songs are all “flops” despite topping the charts.
“cardi laughing when her new collab made 0 noise is crazy,” they wrote. “Like girl you got all them #1s and every song you drop either flops or you get no credit.”
Cardi B replied, “My flops do better than any of these btches best performing songs. FACTS!! Btches should’ve left me alone cuz I WASN’T BOTHERING NOBODY!!! Now get your coins ready for this album so I can teach yall, little glitter butt.”
My flops do better than any of these btches best performing songs.. FACTS!! Btches should’ve left me alone cuz I WASN’T BOTHERING NOBODY!!! Now get your coins ready for this album so I can teach yall, little glitter butt https://t.co/L9dc7HrwkY
Cardi also delivered a tongue-lashing to another user, questioning why she should be “humble” when she’s being used for promo.
“If somebody not bothering or me throwing shots clearly I’m not talkin about them,” Cardi added. “I was having a very fun July.. I don’t sub btches or bother them.. yall p#### was tickling when these hoes used me as a marketing plan but I gotta stay humble huh ?”
If somebody not bothering or me throwing shots clearly I’m not talkin about them… I was having a very fun July.. I don’t sub btches or bother them.. yall p#### was tickling when these hoes used me as a marketing plan but I gotta stay humble huh ? https://t.co/MpQMb3katN
Frank Ocean caused a major stir among his fanbase after seemingly teasing a return to the studio.
Earlier this week, Ocean gave fans the first hint in years that he might be working on new music. He popped up on Instagram with a teaser that had his followers anticipating a follow-up to his No.1 album 2016’s Blonde.
Ocean posted a photo on his Instagram Story of himself playing the guitar. He also followed up on Tuesday (July 30) with a captionless selfie. Although he said nothing about the cryptic posts, his fans took it as a sign of an impending new Frank Ocean album.
The singer/rapper began trending on social media, with his fans debating over whether they’re delusional for wanting new music or if his hiatus was so long they stopped caring.
“We as a society have moved past the need for Frank Ocean,” one person declared, prompting another to question, “In the era of 23 minute debut albums we as a society don’t need Frank Ocean?”
Last year, Frank Ocean performed live for the first time in eight years, headlining the Coachella festival. However, he canceled his set on the second weekend of the festival after a “chaotic” first show where he suffered an ankle injury.
DJ Khaled is catching heat online over his silence over the ongoing crisis in Gaza after going viral with a video showing off a freezer stacked to the brim with ice cream.
On Tuesday (July 30), a clip circulated online of the producer and his son choosing a treat. Khaled calls his son, Asahd, to the freezer before asking which ice cream he should select. He eventually picks an Oreo Cookie popsicle from the shelves full of frozen treats.
The video gained major traction, with one post amassing over 12 million views. While many online gaped at the size of the freezer and the amount of ice cream in it, others called him out for ignoring the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine despite his Palestinian roots.
“Whilst his people are literally starving to death he posts this video of his fridge full of ice cream and chocolate,” one person wrote. “He’s not put out 1 video, speaking and showing support and solidarity with his own people. DJ Khaled is a disgrace!”
Whilst his people are literally starving to death he posts this video of his fridge full of ice cream and chocolate.
He’s not put out 1 video, speaking and showing support and solidarity with his own people.
“DJ Khaled is an embarrassment to Arabs all over,” another user replied. “To see your people get slaughtered everyday and not say a word or help is ridiculous.”
DJ Khaled is an embarrassment to Arabs all over. To see your people get slaughtered everyday and not say a word or help is ridiculous. https://t.co/91d7OeFHEg
A third person added, “A reminder that DJ Khaled, an entertainer with direct Palestinian heritage has yet to say a single word about the war, and incessant bombing happening in a country his parents are from and where he still has family members.”
A reminder that DJ Khaled, an entertainer with direct Palestinian heritage has yet to say a single word about the war, and incessant bombing happening in a country his parents are from and where he still has family members. https://t.co/NrlEp1uHTC
— MOTHER OF ALL MOTHERS. (@francemothers) July 30, 2024
It’s not the first time DJ Khaled has faced backlash over the conflict in Gaza. Earlier this year D.L. Hughley blasted the “God Did” hitmaker for not speaking out about the crisis.
“To me you have gone from DJ Khaled to DJ Callous,” Hughley declared. “You cannot be so oblivious that you forget that the images that you are portraying have an equal and opposite effect. And what it tells people is that if somebody that looks like them doesn’t care why should you.”
Missy Elliott is thanking Usher for coming to her aid when she was in excruciating pain before a recent show.
On Tuesday (July 30), the Hip-Hop icon publicly thanked the R&B superstar for his healing hands. In a post on X (Twitter), Elliott revealed Usher was on hand, literally, when she came down with a crippling migraine. According to Missy Elliott, Usher helped alleviate her symptoms by working on her pressure points.
“Big up my fam @Usher who came to not just one of my shows but TWO & hopefully 3,” she wrote. “What ppl don’t know is I suffer migraines and I performed yesterday in ATL with the WORST migraine nauseated & all & he came back stage & did pressure points on my hands yes he do it all.”
Big up my fam @Usher who came to not just one of my shows but TWO & hopefully 3🙌🏾 what ppl don’t know is I suffer migraines and I performed yesterday in ATL with the WORST migraine nauseated & all & he came back stage & did pressure points on my hands🙌🏾🙏🏾 yes he do it all🤣 pic.twitter.com/39I0tC0OvB
The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer previously revealed she refused to let her battle with Graves’ disease prevent her from hitting the road for her first-ever headlining tour.
“Every day I wake, I’m blessed to be here and in good health,” she said during an interview with PEOPLE. “I’m feeling so much better now. That was a run. Every now and then you get a little ache in the leg or the knee, but outside of that, I feel good.”
Elliott shied away from the limelight for years after being diagnosed with the autoimmune disorder in 20008. However, she was doing much better before embarking on her Out of This World – The Missy Elliott Experience Tour.
“Every morning my regimen is I get up, wash my face, brush my teeth and walk,” she said. “I say my prayers as I’m walking, and then all of these ideas start coming to mind. I’ll call everybody like, ‘I want to swing from this,’ and they’re like, ‘Do you know how much that costs?’”
