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Can Gunna Pick Up Where Kanye West Left Off With adidas In New Originals Collaboration?

Gunna has teamed up with adidas Originals to launch the highly anticipated Adizero Aruku sneaker, and now the elephant in the room needs to be fed peanuts considering the collab follows the brand’s efforts to pivor following Kanye West’s dramatic exit.

While Gunna’s new venture appears to be a singular collab, it’s hard not to speculate how the impact of the release of the sneaker could factor into filling the massive void left by West and the absence of Yeezy. Primarily because West’s Yeezy line was a colossal success, generating nearly $1.7 billion in annual revenue for adidas at its peak.

The brand reportedly paid West a hefty buyout close to $1 billion to part ways. adidas reported significant financial losses following the departure of West and the end of their partnership with Yeezy. In February 2023, adidas warned that it could lose up to $1.3 billion in revenue in 2023 if it failed to sell its existing Yeezy stock.

By May 2023, the company announced that it was expecting a full-year operating loss of €700 million ($769 million), its first annual loss in 31 years, largely due to the unsold Yeezy inventory and the termination of its lucrative partnership with Kanye West.

Since Kanye West’s departure, adidas has been on a mission to collaborate with a new wave of influential artists. Big names like Pharrell Williams, Bad Bunny and Beyoncé have all joined forces with the brand, each bringing their unique flair to the adidas Originals lineup.

Fast forward to the present, where adidas Originals chose the WIRELESS Festival in London as the perfect stage for Gunna to unveil the Adizero Aruku. The crowd went wild as Gunna’s performance, paired with the striking white and red silhouette of the new sneaker, lit up the festival.

The sneaker, inspired by Japan’s vibrant streetwear scene, seamlessly blends athletic performance with urban fashion. Coupled with the momentum Gunna has created since the release of his album, A Gift & a Curse, which debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart, the Atlanta native could be poised to help the show become a cultural phenomenon in the fashion world, much like Yeezys were.

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As if the sneaker launch wasn’t enough, Gunna is also making waves with his own fashion line, P By Gunna. Known for its bold designs and urban edge, P By Gunna is quickly gaining traction in the fashion world, making Gunna even more of a dripreneur than ever before.

With the Adizero Aruku set to launch globally in 2025, all eyes are on Gunna and adidas Originals. Will this new collaboration fill the Yeezy-sized void? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—the sneaker game just got a whole lot more exciting.

Check out the post above for additional images of the kicks.

Pop Smoke’s Mom Avoided Purported Killer’s Interview: “His Life Is Finished”

Pop Smoke’s mother Audrey Jackson paid no attention to a controversial interview with Blockstar, one of the men involved in her son’s 2020 murder. Jackson said she only heard about Blockstar’s lack of remorse through secondhand information.

“I’m not tuned into that,” Jackson told Hot 97’s TT Torrez. . “It’s not so much that I’m closing it out. It’s that it’s just not a part of my world. I have people who will come and say, ‘Have you heard?’ People will hit me up like, ‘Ma, are you OK?’ I felt a way when you just said he was being disrespectful because I’ve been told that he’s been interviewing and being disrespectful. And I gotta let that go because that’ll eat me up. I gotta let that go. ‘Cause the bottom line is, your life is over. His life Is finished. He’s living, but if that’s his approach to what he’s done, life is done for him.”

Blockstar, the purported gunman who shot Pop Smoke, was a teenager at the time of the murder. Blockstar was sentenced as a juvenile and released from custody after a few years behind bars.

Two of Blockstar’s co-defendants were also sentenced as juveniles, making them eligible for release at age 25. Jackson accepted the fact her son’s killers would not spend their lives in prison.

“I don’t wanna say there’s nothing to forgive, but I don’t approach it that way,” she said. “People ask me … I’m not ready to go have tea with anybody and go to anybody’s house and have a meal. And I acknowledge the change that’s been brought to my life and devastated my family. But it doesn’t make sense to hold on to some sort of anger and bitterness that you can’t do nothing with … I’m not gonna hold onto something because then you’ve won. You’ve eaten my soul. I can’t let you do that.”

Corey Walker, the only defendant charged as an adult in Pop Smoke’s murder, awaits trial. Walker pleaded not guilty to one count of murder, one count of burglar and two counts of robbery.

Kanye West Sued Over “Blatant Theft” Of Eminem & Kendrick Lamar Collaborator’s Work

Artist Revenue Advocates sued Kanye West for copyright infringement on behalf of producer DJ Khalil and others on Wednesday (July 17). According to court documents reviewed by AllHipHop, Ye was accused of using DJ Khalil and three musicians’ work without permission and payment.

DJ Khalil created a track with keyboardist Sam Barsh, bassist Dan Seeff and multi-instrumentalist Josh Mease in 2018. The unpublished music was included in a “composer pack” made available to potential buyers. Kanye used the track for his songs “Hurricane” and “Moon,” which appeared on the 2021 album Donda.

“The West Defendants did, at various times, seek the Artists’ permission to include the Work in ‘Hurricane’,” the lawsuit revealed. “No permission was granted.”

Artist Revenue Advocates accused Kanye of “blatant theft.” They argued he admitted to infringement by crediting DJ Khalil, Barsh, Seeff and Mease on Donda. DJ Khalil, a Hip-Hop veteran who has produced songs for Eminem and Kendrick Lamar, received production credits on “Hurricane” and “Moon.”

“In an act of blatant brazenness, Defendants even credited the Artists as songwriters and producers on both ‘Hurricane’ and ‘Moon,’” the lawsuit noted. “Of course, given that Defendants knew they did not have permission to use the Work. The fact that they credit the Artists as songwriters and producers is effectively an admission of copyright infringement.”

Artist Revenue Advocates believed “Hurricane” and “Moon” earned at least $15 million in streaming revenue as of March 2024. The group viewed Kanye as a hypocrite for not properly compensating DJ Khalil, Barsh, Seeff and Mease.

“West’s unlawful use of the Work follows an unfortunate pattern and practice of taking other artists’ music without their permission,” the lawsuit explained. “Other instances of willful infringement by West include unauthorized use of music from Ozzy Osbourne and Donna Summer. West’s history of deliberate use of the music of others stands in stark contrast with his position as a supposed champion of artists’ rights. In September 2020, concurrent with West and his label’s deliberate unlicensed use of the Work, West launched a series of tweets criticizing UMG, alleging exploitative practices toward artists … West’s tirade underscores the need for accountability and fair compensation across all levels of the music industry, including by those who advocate for change. By failing to pay artists for their contributions, West perpetuates the very injustices against which he claims to fight.”

The plaintiff sought undisclosed damages for copyright infringement. Kanye’s label G.O.O.D. Music, Universal Music Group and Kano Computing, the company behind the Stem Player, were also defendants in the lawsuit.

Did Republicans Dis-Invite 50 Cent From RNC?

Here’s some tea for you. You know I don’t usually use words like “tea,” but I’m about to now.

Donald Trump came out to a 50 Cent banger that we all know: “Many Men.” It’s one of the biggest hits from the Queens rapper, but now it’s being used for some diabolical behavior—the Republican Nation Convention. That’s right, Donald Trump, also from Queens, is using a song we love to further the idea that he was almost killed. “Many men” are also questioning the validity of the assassination attempt, but that’s another story. Where’s the medical report, Mr. Former President?

Anyway, whenever Donald Trump uses someone’s song, typically they get a cease and-desist letter. However, it seems to be universally accepted that 50 Cent allowed the use of the song. We don’t know the terms of that agreement, but he certainly didn’t send a cease and desist. In fact, he promoted himself on social media, superimposing a picture of Donald Trump’s mug on his own body.

Here’s where it gets even more interesting. 50 Cent was slated to perform at the Republican National Convention and was going to show out in front of the largest, most rapid MAGA gathering ever. Well, that didn’t happen. Why?

Word on the street is that JD Vance, the vice-presidential candidate for Donald Trump vetoed it. No one quite knows why, but some folks with very powerful sources, who we can’t mention at this moment, have said they didn’t want a Black rapper performing at the conference. This doesn’t top Tim Scott doing all that Tom Behavior and still not getting his VP look.

But what’s crazy is that 50 Cent was reportedly disinvited. That’s wild, if true. How are they going let let Amber Rose cook like unseasoned chicken on stage and not one of the greatest rappers ever rock? You can’t dis Fif. Maybe he’ll comment on this so we can get the confirmed scoop.

DAMN JD!

De La Soul, Statik Selektah, DJ EFN & More Rally Around DJ Shortkut Amid Hospitalization

Beat Junkies and Invisibl Skratch Piklz legend DJ Shortkut was hospitalized earlier this week, according to multiple posts from his Instagram account. The news first started making the rounds on Tuesday (July 16) after someone running his page wrote a statement about his health crisis.

“We want to inform you that DJ Shortkut has been hospitalized due to a serious health incident,” it read. “He is currently in stable condition and receiving excellent care.” The statement continued in the caption, “We ask for your patience and understanding as his family requests that we respect their privacy during this time. More updates will be provided soon. Your love and support mean the world to him!”

The 48-year-old turntablist received an outpouring of support from the Hip-Hop community. Z-Trip, Amp Live, Peanut Butter Wolf, Souls of Mischief’s A-Plus, fellow Beat Junkie/Piklz D-Styles, Kid Koala, Egyptian Lover, Statik Selektah, Pharoahe Monch and DJ Nu-mark were among the many sending Shortkut love.

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An update on DJ Shortkut arrived the following day and provided an opportunity for people to contact him through Instagram. Language used in the statement appear to point to a stroke or heart attack.

“Sincere thanks and love to everyone who reposted our health announcement today, shared posts and showed love for @shortkut. We understand it was a shock to everyone and appreciate all the inquiries for support. He definitely felt all the love and wants everyone to know that he is deeply touched by your message; they are providing him with strength. His cognitive development is improving daily, and his motor skills are steadily progressing.

“We will relay more updates as the days progress. Just a reminder, his doctors and family request he focuses 100% on his recovery. If there’s anything you’d like to direct to Shorkut, please DM me, and I will forward it to his immediate family. Once again, thank you everyone for your love and well wishes. God bless.”

Similar to the first post, a flood of artists showed up in the comment section, including De La Sou’s Plug One and Stretch Armstrong.

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DJ Shortkut, born Jon Cruz, is also a member of the Triple Threat DJs crew. He was the DMC World DJ Championships​ in 1994 and 1998, ITF World Team Champion and, as a member of the Beat Junkies, part of the team that won the International Turntablist Federation (ITF) World Team Championship​. In 2023, he was inducted into the Bay Area Hip Hop Hall of Fame.

Pictured (l-r): D-Styles, Mix Master Mike and DJ Shortkut

Donald Trump Sells Out 5,000 Pairs Of $300 “Assassination” Sneakers

Donald Trump is capitalizing on the alleged assassination attempt that took place on Saturday (July 13) in Pennsylvania. A website owned by a Trump company is selling sneakers displaying a photo from the violent incident that brought chaos to his presidential rally in the town of Butler.

Only 5,000 pairs of t he limited-edition footwear are available, with 10 of them being randomly autographed. The sneakers are expected to ship in either September or October, just in time for the election.

“These limited edition high-tops, featuring Trump’s iconic image with his fist raised, honor his unwavering determination and bravery,” the website reads. “Show your support and patriotic pride with these exclusive sneakers, capturing a defining moment in history.”

The sneakers have the United States flag displayed in the high-top area and the now-viral image of Trump raising a fist after a bullet grazed his right ear. The image has been used on hundreds of items since the deadly event, which resulted in the death of 20-year-old shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks and one rally attendee. Two others were critically wounded.

Video footage shows Trump asking for his shoes soon after the bullet grazed him. “Let me get my shoes,” Trump repeatedly told Secret Service agents, who attempted to shield him and rush him off the stage.

Vendors are capitalizing off the photo of the historic event while some right-wing enthusiasts campaigning for Trump’s reelection bid. Merchandise with the photo range from sweatshirts, mugs, car stickers to trading cards with slogans like “Trump 2024,” “That’s My President” and “You Missed.”

Trump made his first public appearance in Milwaukee at Republican National Convention on Monday (July 15) wearing a large bandage over his ear. Ardant Trump supporters have been wearing them too as a sign of solidarity.

Crooks’ voter registration card started making the rounds on social media shortly after the shooting, showing he was a registered Republican. The upcoming November election in which Trump is challenging President Joe Biden would have been the first time Crooks had been old enough to vote in a presidential race.

When Crooks was 17, he made a $15 donation to ActBlue, a political action committee that raises money for left-leaning and Democratic politicians, according to a 2021 Federal Election Commission filing. The donation was earmarked for the Progressive Turnout Project, a national group that rallies Democrats to vote.

As of Thursday (July 18), the shoes are sold out.

Fan Tokens & Cryptocurrency: Cricket’s Next Big Thing

Cricket is witnessing the rise of fan tokens and cryptocurrency in recent times. These new technologies assist in reaching out to the fans and increasing revenues for the teams. Now it is high time to find out how the fan tokens and cryptocurrency are revolutionizing this sector.

Understanding Fan Tokens

Fan tokens are tokens that provide their holders with certain benefits as fans. They can participate in the voting process of the clubs’ decisions, receive unique content, or even personally meet with their favourite players. Currently, there are many sports teams in different parts of the world that are using these tokens.

With respect to cricket, fan tokens are gradually gaining currency. Teams give out tokens to increase the fans’ interaction and loyalty to the teams. For instance, a cricket club may allow token holders to decide the type of shirt the team should wear. This makes fans feel more involved and appreciated by the team. Since online betting legal in India, these tokens might also be employed to improve the betting process.

Freepik

The Use of Cryptocurrency in the Sports Industry

Cryptocurrency is also entering the sports industry. It is safe and fast in executing transactions, and that makes it suitable for potential activities in the sporting industry. Here are a few ways cryptocurrency is used:

  • Sponsorships: In the present world, most sports teams have sponsors in the form of cryptocurrencies.
  • Payments: Salaries can be paid in cryptocurrency to the players and the staff.
  • Merchandise sales: A fan can purchase the team merchandise using the cryptocurrency.

Such applications of cryptocurrency assist in workflow and present more options for revenue generation. Sports and digital currencies are a great combination, and there is much to look forward to when it comes to this area.

Integration in Cricket

Cricket teams are getting on board the supporter tokens and cryptocurrencies bandwagon. These technologies assist in the interaction of the audience as well as increase the income. Now, let us have a look at how these are being implemented in cricket.

Fan Engagement Through Tokens

With fan tokens, followers of cricket teams get the chance to interact with their favorite teams in a different manner. They can participate in voting for certain team decisions, gain more content that is not available to the public and, in some cases, meet their favorite players. This makes them feel more like a part of the team itself, and this is good for their morale.

For instance, a cricket club could allow the followers who have the tokens to decide what design the team should have on their jerseys. This makes supporters loyal and gives followers a feeling that they are important to the team or organization. Through tokens, teams improve the connection with supporters which, in turn, raises fan loyalty and thus improves the level of audience experience.

Merchandising and E-commerce

Cryptocurrency is also transforming how they purchase fan merchandise. Currently, most cricket teams have their merchandise, tickets and other services available for purchase through digital currency. This is good for followers to be able to purchase team apparel from the comfort of their homes across the globe.

Cryptocurrencies were designed to make payments and transactions fast and secure. It also creates a new market since those fans who prefer to use digital currency will be able to purchase merchandise. Moreover, teams can sell special merchandise that is only available to followers who use cryptocurrency to make purchases, which will create another level of interaction and enthusiasm.

Benefits to the Cricket Economy

Overall, fan tokens and cryptocurrencies enhance cricket’s economy in many ways. These technologies help teams and fans in several ways:

  • Increased revenue: They make money from fans through the sale of tokens.
  • Global reach: Cryptocurrency enables followers from any part of the world to purchase tokens and merchandise.
  • Enhanced engagement: Tokens make fans feel closer to the teams.
  • New sponsorships: Many cryptocurrency organizations have partnerships with different teams and events.

These are the advantages that make cricket progress, expand to other regions of the globe, and become more popular.

Freepik

Challenges and Risks

Despite the advantages that fan tokens and a cryptocurrency provide, there are issues. The first and possibly one of the most significant drawbacks is the extreme fluctuation of the prices of the cryptocurrencies. This can often lead to the value of tokens soaring or plummeting, which may be uncomfortable for fans and teams alike.

The other critical issue is regulatory issues. There are differences in the legal requirements of cryptocurrencies depending on the country. This may present legal challenges for teams that wish to adopt these technologies. In addition, there is always a chance for hacking and fraud, which can be detrimental to both fans and teams. However, these are the risks that are present, and if precautions are well laid out and security is well enhanced, the challenges will be manageable.

Final Words

Cricket is changing with fan tokens and cryptocurrency. They improve the fan base interaction, increase the revenue and create new possibilities. Despite the challenges, the advantages ensure that these technologies are an interesting development in the sport. With cricket accepting novelty at its best, fan tokens and cryptocurrency are all set to be the next big thing. Follow melbet india for more interesting news.

Soulja Boy Files $16M Defamation Lawsuit Against Tasha K Over Gay Affair Rumors 

Soulja Boy is reportedly making good on his promise to sue Tasha K and William The Baddest after the reality TV star claimed he was in an intimate relationship with the rapper. 

On Wednesday (July 17) TMZ reported Soulja Boy had filed a lawsuit in response to claims made on the “Unwine With Tasha K” podcast back in May.  

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During the episode, William the Baddest claims he met Soulja Boy as a fan, but they soon became lovers. He also shared explicit details about an alleged encounter, giving a very graphic description of Big Draco’s manhood. 

The “Crank That” hitmaker vehemently denied the claims at the time, but clips of the interview went viral. The outlet reports Soulja Boy also sent Tasha K and William The Baddest a retraction letter.  

Soulja Boy has now filed a lawsuit and is seeking more than $16 million in damages. He’s suing for defamation, sexual harassment, violation of right to privacy and intentional infliction of emotional distress, among other claims.  

After clips of the episode went viral, Soulja Boy took to Instagram to deny the rumors. He described William The Baddest as a fan he once took a photo with and insisted there was no more to it.  

“On my life, God strike me down. Send me to hell right now,” Soulja Boy declared. “On my soul, on everything I love, that dude is lying. I could die right now today; God strike me down. I put in on my life.”   

He then hopped on the phone with his lawyer, planning a Tasha K lawsuit. 

“We suing the f### out this n####. She gone have to pay me,” he said. While on the phone, Soulja’s lawyer added, “I’m doing the research and putting it all together right now. Cease and desist and getting sued, all of it.”   

Jermaine Dupri Says “Impact” No Longer Goal In Rap After Steph Curry & LeBron James Spark “Not Like Us” Debate 

Jermaine Dupri is sharing his perspective after Steph Curry and LeBron James debated whether Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us’” is played out. 

On Wednesday (July 17), footage went viral of Team USA basketball players warming up for their game against Serbia ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics later this month. The chart-topping Drake diss played in the background, but Curry was tired of hearing it.  

“It’s not the only song in America,” he joked before James chimed in. “I love it,” he replied with a shrug before seemingly saying he was ready to hear “something else.” 

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Their conversation prompted a discussion about whether it was time for the hype surrounding the song to die down.  

Jermaine Dupri weighed in with his take, sharing insight he gained after attending a recent LL COOL J show.  According to the producer, “Not Like Us” made an impact that hasn’t been achieved by this generation of rappers.  

“The reason why it’s no male stars in Hip-Hop anymore that have the impact that LL COOL J has and had, is because the goal in Hip-Hop used to be impact,” he said in a video. “Not sales, not charts; impact. How hard (pause) you could impact the streets. That’s no longer the goal, and to me, is the sole reason why rap is not what rap used to be. Because n##### don’t care about impacting the streets no more.” 

Jermaine Duper Brands Steph Curry’s “Not Like Us” Reaction “Ironic”

He doubled down in the caption, saying he found Steph Curry’s reaction “ironic.” 

“Because what he is feeling (Pause) is a record impacting the streets,” he added. “This new generation is not use to that.” 

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The debate continued in his comment section. While some agreed with Dupri, others backed Curry, insisting the discussion isn’t that deep and the song is played out.  

DJ Jazzy Jeff shared his opinion among the responses. “I think what the issue is we used to have a few songs with this impact at the same time to spread it out alil more,” he said. “Because we haven’t had a Lean Back or a In Da Club in so long.” 

Another person said, “I love Kendrick but I mean it’s a diss song not a motivational song. That’s not a song I wanna hear everyday all day either. I listen to diss song a couple times then after that I’m tired of hearing it. It served it purpose. Just my personal opinion.” 

Antonio Brown Thirsts Over Angel Reese Amid Lil Kim Dating Rumors 

Antonio “AB” Brown is lusting over Angel Reese after sparking rumors he’s dating Lil Kim after the pair were spotted locking lips and getting cozy at a recent event.  

On Wednesday (July 17), AB shared his reaction to a viral photo of the Chicago Sky forward. The image features an off-duty Reese courtside wearing short shorts, showing off her toned legs. AB quote-tweeted the image, posting a video caption-less video of dogs humping. 

While his display of thirst attracted some backlash, AB was unrepentant. “Bro is 36 fetishizing a 22 year old smh,” one user replied to his post. AB fired back, “N#### you gay.” 

Just before thirsting after Angel Reese, AB shared photos from his recent link-up with Lil Kim. The pair sparked dating rumors after putting on a very touchy-feely display at a party thrown by music manager Big Fendi in New York last Saturday, July 13. 

Footage from the event showed AB putting his head on Kim’s breast while she performed the Junior M.A.F.I.A. classic “Get Money.” Another photo from the party shows Ab and Lil Kim kissing. 

He then posted a selfie wearing a t-shirt with a large bee emblem, presumably showing love to Queen Bee, Lil Kim.  

Instagram/AB

Fans in AB’s comment section were divided, with some encouraging a possible romance while others weren’t as keen. 

“He looks like he’s so into Her…. I ain’t mad at it!!!! That’s a [queen] Sir as you should!” one person shared while another stated, “Looks like sexual assault.” 

Prior to getting flirty with AB, Lil Kim was rumored to be dating rapper Tayy Brown. In April, the NYC rap icon sparked speculation after sharing footage from Brown’s birthday party that left fans wondering exactly what their dynamic was. 

Drake Seemingly Responds To ScHoolboy Q Claiming TDE Banned From Performing In Canada 

Drake is showing love to Tony Yayo with a post on his Instagram Stories that appears to be much more than just a tribute. 

Late on Wednesday evening (July 17), Drake took to his Instagram Stories with a selfie. In the image, Drizzy dons a “Free Yayo” shirt. His tribute to the G-Unit rapper comes at a strange time, as Tony Yayo was freed after spending time behind bars between 2002 and 2004. 

Tony Yayo Says Drake Critics Not Welcome In Canada

However, Tony Yayo has recently weighed in on the Drake and Kendrick Lamar battle with some interesting takes. 

During an interview with VladTV last month, Yayo said some artists remained neutral throughout the beef because Drake critics won’t be welcome in Canada. 

“You can’t really give your opinion because n##### still wanna go to Canada,” he explained. “You don’t wanna say something about Drake and now you can’t go to Canada.”

Tony Yayo’s comments might seem prophetic to ScHoolboy Q. Just hours before Drake showed love to Yayo, Q announced his Toronto show was canceled and said that Canadian cops don’t want TDE artists to perform there.  

“THey just canceled my sHow in TORONTO,” ScHoolboy Q tweeted. “CANADIAN POLICE DONT WANT NOBODY FROM TDE PERFORMING.” 

He went on to say there’s no bad blood between his and Drake’s camp, but added, “If we wanted to get yall we would’ve just did it.. now wHen sumbody get Hurt don’t cry.” 

The timing of Drake’s post could signal his agreement with Tony Yayo that his critics might want to steer clear of his native country. However, Yayo also recently shared his belief that the battle with K. Dot is not over. “I think the battle is not over,” he said. “All he got to do is come back with a No. 1 record.” 

Drake had multiple G-Unit references during the K. Dot battle. He donned the G-Unit spinner in the “Family Matters” video, and DJ Whoo Kid featured on Push Ups.  

ScHoolboy Q Denies Making Threats After Claiming Canadian Cops Axed Toronto Show Over TDE Vs. OVO Beef

ScHoolboy Q claims he was gearing up to perform a sold-out show in Toronto when it was canceled at the last minute because Canadian police didn’t want TDE to perform in the city following the Drake and Kendrick Lamar battle. 

On Wednesday evening (July 17) Q took to social media to give fans an option to get tickets to his sold-out Toronto show on July 18. 

However, less than two hours later, ScHoolboy Q returned, claiming the show was scrapped at the eleventh hour. “THey just canceled my sHow in TORONTO,” he wrote. “CANADIAN POLICE DONT WANT NOBODY FROM TDE PERFORMING.” 

ScHoolboy Q said the whole affair was “Lokey Hilarious,” before speculating that his appearance in K. Dot’s “Not Like Us” video got him canceled in Canada. 

ScHoolBoy Q Denies Tension Between TDE & OVO

He went on to say there’s no bad blood between his and Drake’s camp, insisting TDE CEO Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith just hung out with Lil Wayne and Birdman. He also pointed out that OVO’s PartyNextDoor performed in Los Angeles without incident. “TOP was just wit Wayne & Baby smH partynextdoor just Had a sHow @ tHe palladium,” he continued.  

However, the tone quickly shifted with Q stating, “If we wanted to get yall we would’ve just did it.. now wHen sumbody get Hurt don’t cry.” 

He also clapped back at someone who said he could end up like Rick Ross, who recently got into an altercation in Canada after dissing Drake.  

“I don’t tHink u know wHo I am. In fact I do t tHink a lot of u know wHo I am,” he added. 

While some users perceived his remarks as a threat, ScHoolboy Q rejected the notion. “I neva said ‘ima kill sumbody,’” he clarified. “Im saying if we wanted to crack it off we could’ve smH. Rap and move on playin tuff gon get sumbody Hurt it’s all good ima soccer dad.” 

He also apologized, adding, “See I be at soccer games. Ok I’m done til cHicago I’m sorry if y’all took dat as a tHreat and not advice.” 

Bobby Shmurda Accuses Rick Ross Of Retaliating Over His Comments On Canada Brawl

Bobby Shmurda has revealed that Rick Ross may have played a role in his dismissal from an upcoming concert, according to a source close to him.

The New York rapper believes his comments regarding Ross’ physical altercation with his security team and fans at his show in Canada may be the cause of his current issue with Rozay.

In a recent Instagram post, Shmurda spoke directly to Ross, appearing to express his disappointment with the Maybach Music Group mogul after learning Rozay allegedly made the call to remove him from the show. Shmurda addressed the accusation in a video in which he attempted to appeal to Ross, while also explaining how he feels about Rozay in the process.

“Rick Ross, bro, I just got the call,” Shmurda said. “I really respect, like I really f##k with you. I don’t f##k with you on no gangster s##t. Y’all artists has got to understand this. I don’t f##k with ya n###as on no gangster s##t. I f### with ya n###as with some business s##t. And as a man, you know what I’m saying?”

He went on to explain how the source of his frustration results in the fact that he he got word on the matter via a third party rather than directly from Ross himself.

“So like why you ain’t call me big homie?” he said. “Why I got to get the call from n##### talking about ‘Yo, Rick Ross kicked you off the show. We work with,’ I got the call from Barbados.

“They’re like, ‘Yo, we do a lot of business with Rick Ross and we don’t think Bobby’s good for the show,’ and this and that. Like come on bro. Bro, I don’t want no beef with none of y’all n###as. I’m independent. First of all, I’m beefing with higher powers in the industry already.”

Shmurda continued venting about the situation, remarking on how the combination of his age and background complicates how he handles and reacts to incidents like this.

“But my whole thing is though, they like, ‘Yo MMG called and said yo, we don’t want Bobby Shmurda on the show’,” he said.

“I’m bought to be 30 in a couple weeks bro. I’m not none of these young n###as, bro. I’ve been selling drugs. I was 10 years old, bro. I didn’t grow up like you or none of your other friends or none of the other s##t, bro. I’m a different type of n###a, you feel me? I’m very honest. I’m a Leo bro. I ain’t with all this other s##t. Why you gotta—you could have called me big homie. When I made that video I was defending you telling m############.

Shmurda added, “Nah rozay you moving dusty,” in the caption of the video.

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Prior to the current situation, Shmurda both came to Roazay’s defense and criticized the Maybach Music Group CEO for how he handled the incident in a post he shared on his Instagram. The fight ensued when a group of men surrounded Ross and his associates after Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” diss was played following his performance.

Shmurda referenced incarcerated No Limit rapper C-Murder when describing the hypothetical outcome of the situation had he been involved.

“Yo cuz I would’ve went out like C-Murder,” Shmurda said. “On my dead grandmother, son. I would’ve went out like C-Murder, bro. I swear to God. I swear to everything I love, bro. I would’ve out like C-Murder.”

Check out the post above for more context on the situation.

Skilla Baby Baffled By Baby Mama Rumor: “I Don’t Even Know That Lady”

Skilla Baby denied a social media post claiming he’s expecting a baby. The Detroit-bred rapper called out the Instagram account UrFavesBeforeIG for spreading misinformation on Wednesday (July 17).

“lol I don’t got no f###### baby on the way whoever run that page a lame and just be saying anything,” he wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter). “Don’t believe this corny s###. Lmao I hate social media.”

Skilla Baby reiterated his denial on Instagram Stories.

“Whoever run this page is a corn,” he wrote. “I don’t even know that lady and my hair not even done.”

The Geffen Records artist cleared up the rumor less than two weeks after threatening to sue the Detroit Police Department. Skilla Baby accused a Detroit cop of harassment.

“Every time I perform at home, fire marshals or Detroit police always come shut me down,” he said. “I already like—I don’t even know what I be doing, but they always come shut me down. And I got one officer that just always pick on me, his name is Lt. Rue … Every event I’m at, he always try to get me kicked out.”

He added, “The next thing I’ma do is sue the city. I’m gonna sue the DPD for keep putting him at my events … Tell Lt. Rue to leave me alone.”

Detroit police contested Skilla Baby’s allegations. The department claimed there were legitimate reasons for shutting down his shows.

“We deny any suggestion of wrongdoing toward the performer or his events,” the DPD told the Detroit Free Press. “While several of Skilla Baby’s concerts have been canceled, this has been due to the performer failing to follow city protocols and for failing to obtain venues with the appropriate capacity.”

Skilla Baby was referring to Lt. Lacell Rue, who was charged with assault as a sergeant in 2019. DPD promoted Rue to lieutenant in 2022.

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“The Plug With Toyia T” Explores Black Men’s Mental Health With Expert Guests

Cincinnati-based host Toyia T examines Black men’s mental health in an insightful episode of her show The Plug with Toyia T on Wednesday (July 17). The episode titled “Black Boyz II Men & Their Mental Health” aims to shed light on mental health issues faced by Black men with the help of an expert panel.

The episode’s guests include Aaron Mallory, founder and CEO of GRO Community; Victoria Morgan, owner of Nue’Dae SmooTeas; and Dr. Steven Kniffley Jr., the senior associate dean of the University of Cincinnati’s College of Medicine. Dr. Kniffley is also an associate professor in the university’s Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience department.

“Black Boyz II Men & Their Mental Health” underscores the importance of addressing mental health in the Black community, particularly among men who often face stigmas and disparities in access to mental health care. The July 17 episode will highlight effective techniques and treatments for Black men’s well-being.

Viewers can watch the “Black Boyz II Men & Their Mental Health” episode live on Facebook and YouTube at 6:30 p.m. ET. Past episodes of The Plug With Toyia T covered topics such as artificial intelligence, immigration, women’s health, investing and dating.

Check out June’s Black Music Month episode below.

Snoop Dogg Accused Of Ripping Off Drummer In Lawsuit

A veteran drummer/producer sued Snoop Dogg for copyright infringement in California on Monday (July 15). According to Billboard, Trevor Lawrence Jr. claimed Snoop never paid the studio musician for contributions to the 2022 album BODR (Bacc on Death Row).

Lawrence said he created backing tracks “on spec” for Snoop to experiment with in the studio in 2020. The drummer, who has worked with stars such as Bruno Mars and Mariah Carey, required payment if the tracks were released commercially.

Snoop allegedly used Lawrence’s work for the songs “Pop Pop” and “Get This Dick,” which appeared on the BODR album. Lawrence never received compensation.

“To date, defendants have refused to properly license the Lawrence tracks or compensate Lawrence for their use in the [Snoop] tracks,” the lawsuit contended.

Snoop’s rep allegedly contacted Lawrence about using the tracks in 2022. Lawerence required a $10,000 flat fee and a 50 percent interest for the underlying musical composition. The lawsuit claimed Snoop’s rep thought the terms were “acceptable.”

“Pop Pop” and “Get This Dick” were released a month later. No one sent Lawrence a formal licensing offer.
Lawrence filed the lawsuit after two years of no compensation. He demanded payment, estimating Snoop made “tens of millions of dollars” from selling BODR as an NFT.

“At no point in time did defendants … communicate to Lawrence any intention to exploit the Lawrence tracks in connection with a bundled offering such as [the NFT sale], nor did Lawrence authorize any such exploitation of his work, which was never within his prior contemplation,” the lawsuit explained.

Snoop released BODR after becoming the new owner of Death Row Records. He acquired the label from MNRK Music Group, formerly known as EOne Music. BODR featured collaborations with Nas, the late Nate Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, The Game, DaBaby, T.I. and more.

Young Thug RICO Trial Judge Recuses Herself Days After Assignment—New Judge Takes Case

Young Thug’s YSL RICO trial is in shambles once again after the latest judge to be assigned to the case following the recusal of Judge Ural Glanville has removed herself.

According to court documents obtained by AllHipHop on Wednesday (July 17), Judge Shukura L. Ingram of the Superior Court Of Fulton County officially recused herself from the case, triggering the reassignment of the trial to another judge. News of Ingram’s move to recuse herself comes just two days after the judge was assigned to the case on July 15.

According to court documents, Ingram’s decision to recuse herself stems from the arrest of her deputy for an improper relationship with Thug’s co-defendant Big Bhris (Christian Eppinger). As a result, Ingram filed for the case to be reassigned because she did not want the appearance of impartiality if the deputy is called in as a witness in future hearings in the case.

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The deputy in question had been responsible for the “courtroom and personal security” of the defendant for at least six months. She was accused of colluding with the defendant during the trial to commit a felony and “endangering the safety of citizens within the Fulton County courthouse.

Ingram was appointed to the case after Glanville was forced to exit the trial due to impartiality concerns when Thug’s lawyer Brian Steel questioned Glanville about a secret meeting between the judge, prosecutors and a key witness in June.

The defense believed Glanville and prosecutors coerced Kenneth “Lil Woody” Copeland into testifying in the trial. Glanville held Steel in contempt and sentenced the attorney to 20 days in jail after demanding to know the source of Steel’s information, which he refused to reveal. The Georgia Supreme Court granted bond to Steel, allowing him to avoid jail time.

According to a report from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC), Judge Paige Reese Whitaker has now been assigned to preside over the case. Per AJC, Whitaker, who is a former Fulton County prosecutor, also worked at the state Attorney General’s Office, and has been a judge in Fulton County since 2017.

Check out the post above for the full legal documents.

Slim 400’s Killer Sentenced For YG Associate’s Shooting Death

Michael Terry, one of the two men charged in the 2021 shooting death of Slim 400, was sentenced to 32 years in a California state prison. Judge Altus Hudson handed down the sentence after Terry pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter.

Terry shot and killed Slim 400, whose real name was Vincent Cochran, outside the late rapper’s Inglewood home in December 2021. Terry admitted to using a firearm and a felony strike for a prior conviction, per Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón.

“Our hearts go out to the families of Mr. Cohran, an artist in the Los Angeles community who was taken far too soon by a tragic act of gun violence,” Gascón said in a press release. “Our Community Violence Reduction Unit vigorously prosecutes gun violence to protect our communities. Gun violence has no place in our society, and we will continue to work closely with communities we serve to help prevent these senseless crimes.”

Terry’s co-defendant Tamra Lynn Bell pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact. She is scheduled to be sentenced on January 15, 2025.

Slim 400 was best known for his collaborations with YG. A year after Slim 400’s death, YG paid tribute to his slain friend by releasing the single “Miss My Dawgs” featuring Lil Wayne.

Blueface Learns Fate For Violating Probation In Las Vegas Case

Blueface avoided prison for violating his probation in a Las Vegas shooting case. According to CBS affiliate KLAS, Judge Kathleen Delaney kept him on probation for up to three years with a suspended prison sentence of two to five years.

Judge Delaney sentenced Blueface to 30 days in a Nevada jail but gave him credit for time served behind bars in California.

“This was a first technical violation with only temporary revocation available for a maximum of 30 days,” the court ruled.

Blueface remains in custody in a California jail for violating his probation in a Los Angeles County assault case. He was arrested for a probation violation in the assault case in January. A California judge is scheduled to sentence him on July 29.

Judge Delaney issued a bench warrant for Blueface in February. He was accused of violating his probation for his role in a December 2023 altercation in Utah.

Blueface, whose real name is Johnathan Porter, pulled a woman on stage during a show in Salt Lake City. He ordered Jaidyn Alexis, the mother of two of his children, to beat up the woman.

The 27-year-old rapper received probation for a 2022 shooting outside a Las Vegas strip club. He accepted a plea deal in 2023. Kentabius Traylor, the shooting victim, was frustrated by the light sentence.

“I know people who get more time for stealing bubblegum, honestly,” he said. “I know people who do more time for stealing TVs than they do for shooting somebody. I’m just completely disappointed in all of this.”

Prosecutors originally charged Blueface with attempted murder before reducing the charges. He pleaded guilty to battery and discharging a firearm at or into an occupied structure.

Blueface was sued by the strip club’s owner, who claimed the shooting resulted in the club losing its license. He was ordered to pay $13 million in damages.

Missy Elliott Makes History As “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” Is Beamed Into Space 

Missy Elliott has made history after NASA blasted one of her most iconic hits to Venus, marking the first time a rap song has been beamed into deep space. 

Last Friday (July 12) NASA blasted Elliott’s 1997 Timbaland-produced hit “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” into space from its Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California. The song traveled about 158 million miles at the speed of light from Earth to Venus.  

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Elliott’s debut solo single took approximately 14 minutes to reach the planet, often dubbed Earth’s evil twin. The transmission was made via a massive 112-foot wide Deep Space Station 13 (DSS-13) radio dish antenna, nicknamed Venus.  

Missy Elliott celebrated the astronomical accolade on social media, sharing her excitement over the honor.  

“YOOO this is crazy! We just went #OutOfThisWorld with NASA and sent the FIRST hip hop song into space through the Deep Space Network,” she explained. “My song ‘The Rain’ has officially been transmitted all the way to Venus, the planet that symbolizes strength, beauty, and empowerment. The sky is not the limit, it’s just the beginning.” 

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Missy Elliott revealed that she chose Venus because of the qualities it represents. “I am so humbled to have the opportunity to share my art and my message with the universe!” she added. 

NASA said in a statement, “Both space exploration and Missy Elliott’s art have been about pushing boundaries. Missy has a track record of infusing space-centric storytelling and futuristic visuals in her music videos, so the opportunity to collaborate on something out of this world is truly fitting.” 

Missy Elliott follows in the footsteps of The Beatles. Their single “Across the Universe,” was the first song NASA beamed into deep space in 2008.