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UnitedHealthcare CEO Killer Wrote Disturbing Clues On Bullets Used To Assassinate Him

New evidence emerged on Wednesday night (December 4) as the search for the assassin of UnitedHealtcare CEO Brian Thompson continued.

According to ABC News, a cellphone and water bottle were among the discoveries, but even more disturbing were the apparent messages written on the bullet casings left at the scene. Evidently, they contained the words “deny,” “defend” and “depose,” clues that are getting investigators one step closer to figuring out the killer’s motive and bringing him to justice.

ABC News reported Wednesday night that the words “deny,” “defend” and “depose” were written on the casings found at the scene, citing law enforcement sources. Police sources also confirmed the written message to the New York Post , adding that three live 9-millimeter rounds were recovered from the scene, and an additional three discharged casings. Individual words were written on several pieces of evidence, according to the report.

Thompson was shot and killed around 6:40 a.m. ET on Wednesday as he approached the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan, where he was scheduled to attend an investor meeting.

Shortly before 7 a.m., the gunman, masked in the freezing temperatures, “was lying in wait” before opening fire, NYPD commissioner Jessica Tisch explained.

“Many people passed the suspect, but he appeared to wait for his intended target,” she said during a news conference. “I want to be clear: At this time, every indication is that this was a premeditated, preplanned, targeted attack.”

 

The gunman approached Thompson from behind and shot him at least once in the back and once in the right calf. Emergency responders rushed Thompson to Mount Sinai West in critical condition, where he was pronounced dead at 7:12 a.m.

A source with knowledge of the investigation told CNN that UnitedHealthcare’s parent company, UnitedHealth Group, knew high-level executives were being threatend. Thompson’s widow, Paulette, told NBC News “there had been some threats” against her husband.

She added, “Basically, I don’t know, a lack of coverage? I don’t know details. I just know that he said there were some people that had been threatening him.”

While they were reportedly separated at the time, Paulette offered, “We are shattered to hear about the senseless killing of our beloved Brian. Brian was an incredibly loving, generous, talented man who truly lived life to the fullest and touched so many lives. Most importantly, Brian was an incredibly loving father to our two sons and will be greatly missed.”

The gunman is still at large.

EXCLUSIVE: Ice Cube Reveals What He Really Thinks Of Fame

Ice Cube is still reveling in the release of his eleventh studio album, Man Down, which arrived on November 22.

The 19-track project boasts contributions from a laundry list of legendary MCs, including Busta Rhymes, Killer Mike, Snoop Dogg, Kurupt, B-Real, J-Dee of the Lench Mob, E-40, Too $hort and Xzibit. Standout tracks like “I’mma Burn Rubber” and “Facts” prove the pioneering West Coast gangsta rapper inside of him is still alive and well.

Ice Cube has been famous for nearly 40 years; the ’80s were highlighted by the rise and ultimate fall of N.W.A, ’90s saw Ice Cube’s solo career take off along with his acting, ’00s officially ushered in Ice Cube the movie star and a Westside Connection reunion, ’10s produced his ninth solo album, I Am West, and saw him establish his Big3 basketball league and the ’20s was the introduction of Mount Westmore—and that’s just a tiny sliver of everything he has going on.

Needless to say, Ice Cube has evolved into a household name. Speaking to AllHipHop, the undeniably driven mogul opened up about “celebrity” and how he truly feels about it.

“I appreciate fame,” he said matter-of-factly. “It’s It’s been very good to me. It’s provided me with a lifestyle that I could have never dreamed of. And I appreciate my fans because they’re the reason. And so, you know, I look at my fans as my little army. They the folks that’s always supported my projects. And sometimes you might like my projects. Sometimes you might love it. Sometimes it might not be your cup of tea. But they always give me another look and another chance to give them something cool, so I appreciate that.”

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While Ice Cube’s new album isn’t doing numbers like Kendrick Lamar’s GNX project, which opened at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 with more than 300,000 total album-equivalent units sold in its first week, he doesn’t really care. He made the album for his day-one fans, who expect nothing but raw and real lyrics with a healthy dose of straightforward, hard-hitting, West Coast rap-soaked beats.

“People like a simple song,” Cube noted with a shrug. And that formula has worked for him. His music resonates with a wide variety of people from all types of backgrounds, which he called “pretty incredible.”

He continued, “What I tried to do throughout my whole career is just give a real perspective. And some people get mad at that perspective sometimes and it turns them off or whatever. And so to have people to understand it, to rock with it, to look at it as art and then, we drop the street knowledge. So it’s cool because I think you can learn a lot about who I am and who we are as a community listening to the music.”

Like Chuck D once said, Hip-Hop is akin to the “CNN for Black people” and Cube has always tried to paint an accurate picture of what life was like for him—no matter what stage he’s in. Even at 55, he’s rhyming about reuniting with fellow Lench Mob member J-Dee, who was released from prison in 2021 after serving 25 years for murder. He also reflects on some of the hard-earned wisdom he’s learned throughout his life in “Ghetto Story,” how disillusioned he’s become with social media on “Talkin’ Bout These Rappers” and how having an ego isn’t always bad on “It’s My Ego,” all relevant topics to him.

As for Cube’s relentless work ethic, he credited his mother Doris Benjamin, a former hospital clerk and custodian, and father Hosea Jackson, who previously worked a machinist and UCLA groundskeeper.

“I would attribute it to my parents,” he said. “I saw my moms and pops get up and go to work every day. Sometimes my pops would have a couple of jobs and he wouldn’t let nothing make him miss work. It was always, ‘This is another day to prove your worth,’ so to speak. We can’t on our success; that does nothing for anybody. We have to execute every day and then everything turns out right.”

For those who haven’t listened yet, find Man Down below.

Judge Rules Soulja Boy Sexual Assault Accuser’s Lawsuit Can Move Forward

Soulja Boy’s former personal assistant, who alleges she was sexually abused by the “Crank That” rapper, won a round in court on Wednesday (December 4), when a judge ruled her lawsuit against him can move forward.

Santa Monica Superior Court Judge Mark H. Epstein denied a motion by Soulja Boy’s attorneys to dismiss multiple causes of action in the lawsuit brought by the plaintiff, including gender violence, hostile work environment and negligence.

“Way seems to contend that he owes plaintiff no duties outside the employment relationship.” the judge wrote. “The court is not sure what defendant means. If defendant means that he did not owe plaintiff a duty not to sexually assault her, the argument is frivolous. If it is something else, the court does not know what it is. Similarly meritless is the argument that the sexual assault had nothing to do with gender.”

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The woman, who is only referred to as “Jane Doe,” originally filed her lawsuit in 2021. The assistant alleged that she endured severe sexual, physical, and emotional abuse while working for him from late 2018 to mid-2020. The claims include sexual battery, physical assault, false imprisonment and withholding wages.

Doe’s duties included cooking and bringing food and snacks, carrying personal belongings or luggage, styling his hair, driving him and handling travel plans, the suit states.According to the suit, she was paid $500 weekly for her services. She claims she worked seven days a week, 20 hours daily, at his homes in Malibu and Bell Canyon.

The two eventually became romantically involved, but from January 2019 to December 2020 he sexually abused her and didn’t pay her overtime while also committing other wage and hour violations.

The judge insisted in the latest ruling that “if the OT was worked, it must be paid.”

The lawsuit also details a series of incidents where Soulja Boy allegedly subjected the assistant to violent outbursts, sexual assault and coercive control. She stated that the abuse began shortly after she was hired, escalated into a pattern of violence and included instances where she was locked in a room without basic necessities. She also alleged that she wasn’t paid for much of her work during the 18-month employment period.

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Soulja Boy has denied the allegations, calling them untrue through his representatives. However, the plaintiff’s legal team argued that the treatment left her physically and emotionally traumatized and sought accountability through the legal system.

Soulja Boy, whose real name is DeAndre Cortez Way, rose to fame in 2007 with his breakout single “Crank That (Soulja Boy),” which became a viral hit and topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Known for pioneering early internet-driven success in the music industry, he leveraged platforms like MySpace and YouTube to build his career and reach a massive audience.

EXCLUSIVE: Travis Scott Wants $100M From Company Over Botched “UTOPIA” Set Design & Alleged Exploitation

Travis Scott has filed a $100 million lawsuit against a company he claims failed to deliver a custom stage set for his 2023 UTOPIA tour and later exploited his name and likeness without authorization.

The chart-topping rapper slapped Show Motion Engineering with the lawsuit, alleging the Wyoming-based company caused irreparable harm to Scott’s brand and led to substantial financial losses.

Scott and his company, XX Global, accuse Show Motion of breaching their agreement to build an elaborate stage set for the “Utopia” tour, which Scott had commissioned for over $1.5 million.

According to documents obtained by AllHipHop, the company failed to assemble the set for inspection, a contractual obligation required before final payment.

When Scott’s team withheld further payments, Show Motion reportedly refused to release the set, rendering it unusable for the tour.

The suit further alleges that Show Motion failed to deliver and profited from Scott’s brand by showcasing his name, likeness, and prior tour performances on its website.

The company reportedly created a page featuring photos and videos of Travis Scott from previous tours, including Rolling Loud and Made in America, alongside references to the UTOPIA project.

Show Motion’s website also displayed copyrighted designs from the “Utopia” stage without permission from XX Global.

Scott claims those actions were intended to boost the company’s reputation and attract clients under false pretenses.

“The aforementioned acts, among others…were done intentionally or with a conscious disregard of [Scott’s] rights, and with the intent to vex, injure or annoy [Scott] such as to constitute oppression, fraud, or malice, thus entitling [Scott] to exemplary and punitive damages in an amount appropriate to punish or set an example of Defendants, and each of them, and to deter such conduct in the future,” Travis Scott’s lawyer Edwin F. McPherson said.

The chart-topping rapper wants $5 million in direct losses from the copyright infringement and an estimated $10 million in profits Show Motion allegedly earned from marketing materials featuring the designs.

He also wants $100 million for violating his right of publicity and misappropriation of his name and likeness.

Nick Cannon Goes Nuts Over G###### Claim

Nick Cannon publicly rejected allegations made by actor Orlando Brown, claiming the two engaged in a sexual encounter during a period when Cannon was married to pop star Mariah Carey.

During a recent episode of his YouTube series, the Daily Cannon Show, the 44-year-old entertainer addressed Brown’s claims head-on.

The accusations surfaced when Brown, 37, alleged that Cannon performed oral sex on him in the mid-2010s.

Cannon made it clear where he stood, stating, “I did not suck Orlando Brown’s dick!”

The host of The Masked Singer further elaborated on Brown’s assertions, describing him as someone who thrives on controversy.

“I’m entertained by all of his f###### interviews. Whether he talkin’ about me or he talkin’ about anybody, but I don’t take him serious,” Nick Cannon explained. “I think he’s in a mental space where he knows he’s trolling. He don’t give a f###. But in all fun, cause I’m a comedian and I think this s**t is funny.”

Brown, once a rising Disney Channel star known for his role on That’s So Raven, has sparked public concern recently due to erratic behavior and statements targeting fellow celebrities.

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Nick Cannon, a father to 12 children with six women, has often been in the spotlight for his personal and professional life.

He shares 13-year-old twins Moroccan and Monroe with Carey from their eight-year marriage.

His sprawling family includes children with Brittany Bell, Abby De La Rosa, LaNisha Cole, Alyssa Scott, and Bre Tiesi, with whom he is currently in a relationship.

Despite Brown’s high-profile claim, Cannon appeared to approach the situation with firmness and humor, refusing to let the assertion disrupt his public persona.

“I don’t take it serious,” he reiterated.

Cardi B’s $3M In Monthly Spend: Debaucherous Lifestyle Or Smart Strategy?

Rapper Cardi B addressed fans’ questions about her recent collaboration with fast fashion brand Shein, defending her financial decisions and revealing that she can spend up to $3 million monthly.

The Hip-Hop star, whose real name is Belcalis Almánzar, posted a voice recording on X Wednesday that clarified her collaborations are far from a necessity.

“I want to let y’all know I could wake up tomorrow, sign a contract, and have half of $65 million—or half of $70 million—in my bank,” Cardi B asserted.

This response came after fans expressed surprise over her partnership with Shein, given her usual preference for high-end designer clothing.

The “I Like It” rapper used the platform to push back on the notion she relies on brand deals to stay afloat.

Instead, Cardi explained that her income streams allow a lavish lifestyle without compromising.

Cardi also shared screenshots from a conversation with a concert promoter in September as further proof of her financial power.

The exchange revealed an offer of $65 million for a potential tour, where she’d earn $1 million per show and collect half upfront just by signing the contract.

However, Cardi opted to forgo the deal, describing the decision as being due to her taking an “off year.”

The 32-year-old rapper and her husband, Offset, recently welcomed their third child, a daughter born in September.

Cardi hinted that family and strategic career planning were the reasons behind passing up such a lucrative opportunity.

“I don’t want to take tour deals until I announce my album because when I announce my album, I know they’re going to up it,” she said, highlighting her long-term career focus. “You have to move smart. You can’t act hungry when you’re not.”

Although she hasn’t released a full-length album since her debut “Invasion of Privacy” in 2018, Cardi’s influence and earning power remains unshaken.

Fans are awaiting her next project, as her comments suggest she’ll hold out for bigger paydays once her second album is announced.

A$AP Rocky Confirms Upcoming Rihanna Collab Amid Albums Delays 

While A$AP Rocky fans have endured a long six-year wait for his upcoming album, Don’t Be Dumb, Rihanna fans have waited more than eight years for a follow-up to 2018’s Anti

However, it appears the couple has been cooking up something. While at the 38th Annual Footwear News Achievement Awards on Wednesday evening (December 4), A$AP Rocky was asked if he and Rihanna plan to collaborate.

“I think you should just wait around and see,” he told E! News. “You know, we’ve got something in the works.” 

Rocky also explained why the couple, who were friends for years before becoming romantically involved, love working together so much.   

“I think it’s just because it’s easy, especially with somebody you share a kindred spirit with or you share the same interests with. It’s pretty easy,” he said. “It feels more organic or natural.” 

@enews

We need a #Rihanna and #ASAP music collab, asap. 🤩

♬ original sound – E! News

While Rihanna’s long-awaited ninth studio album remains without a release date, A$AP Rocky’s Don’t Be Dumb was initially slated to drop on August 30. He pushed back the project again, blaming the delay on “Leaks & sample clearances” with a reported release in the fall.  

Meanwhile, Rihanna revealed exactly why she’s been in no rush to churn out new music, despite fans’ demands. She was asked how motherhood has impacted her creative process during an AFNA Awards red-carpet interview.  

“It’s impacted it greatly,” she admitted. “It’s a new priority. My kids are my priority. Music comes second to that.” 

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Rihanna & A$AP Rocky On The Red Carpet At The London Fashion Awards

The proud parents welcomed their first son, RZA Athelston Mayers, in May 2022. Their second child, Riot Rose Mayers, arrived in August 2023. 

Meanwhile, Rihanna and A$AP Rocky stole the show across the pond on Monday (December 2). The couple turned heads at London’s Royal Albert Hall, where the “Praise the Lord” hitmaker was awarded the Cultural Innovator Award

Could Kendrick Lamar & JAY-Z Be Reunited?

Could it be true? Could the chatter I’m hearing actually be true? As we all know, Kendrick Lamar owns the year 2024! I don’t care what side you’re on—that’s a fact. Some people may try to twist and challenge that, but we’re not having it!

Now, there’s a new rumor swirling around the digital streets of Hip-Hop. The word is that a deluxe edition of Kendrick Lamar’s latest album is on the way. That part feels likelyread about it here. What’s unclear is what this deluxe version will include. As you might guess, I’m already all in for it. But I’m hoping for something extra major—because let’s face it, 2024 has already been extra major for Kendrick.

Let me cut to the chase and share what I’m hearing: JAY-Z might be rapping on the upcoming deluxe edition of GNX! Yes, there are persistent rumors that Hov is considering a return to Hip-Hop. Supposedly, he’s looking for a way to re-enter a landscape that has changed significantly since his last real foray. Personally, I have my doubts about this rumor.

Would JAY-Z actually attempt a comeback? Would he put his name back in the ring as the GOAT in this era? Does he even care anymore? He’s a billionaire—twice over—and has plenty of other ventures. Still, I believe he’s got that Hip-Hop itch deep down. I think he might want to assert his dominance in the culture one more time. But what would he rap about now? How would he position himself as number one in today’s digital-first climate? Who would he collaborate with? And who would produce for him? These are all valid questions—and real challenges for him.

Let’s not forget, the hottest artists today aren’t really rapping in the traditional sense. And that’s where Kendrick Lamar becomes so significant. Kendrick still raps, and while he can simplify his approach (as we’ve seen with his latest project), he’s still bar-for-bar one of the best. A Kendrick and JAY-Z collab could be incredible.

And then there’s J. Cole. (Yes, I am still upset with him!) Lately, we’ve seen him leaking his old tracks with Kendrick. Some folks are saying Cole is getting washed on those records, but I don’t agree. JAY-Z has options if he’s serious about returning. Drake might seem off the table, but maybe he’s not—Drake is still a top-tier artist. It’s all up in the air right now.

If I had to guess, I’d say this particular rumor probably isn’t true. But I wouldn’t rule it out as a possibility for the future. With the Super Bowl coming up—and JAY-Z’s name tied to some of the reasons why certain artists were excluded from performing—I think he might want to maintain his integrity. Jumping on a song with Kendrick right now could be seen as a compromise, at least publicly.

What do you think? Could we really see Kendrick and Jay on the same track in 2024 / 2025?

Ice Cube’s Son Checks Comedian Over Threat To “Make Love” To Kendrick Lamar 

Andrew Schulz caused a stir with his unhinged remarks about Kendrick Lamar, sparking intense online pushback, including from Ice Cube’s son, O’Shea Jackson Jr. 

On Wednesday (December 4), the Den of Thieves actor checked the comedian over his reaction to K. Dot calling out white comics on GNX for making jokes about Black women. 

“Don’t let no white comedian talk about no Black woman, that’s law,” Lamar rapped on “Wacced Out Murals.”  

Sharing a clip of Schulz, O’Shea wrote, “Weird ass n####.” He followed up with a second tweet, adding, “Man how people change on some weird s###. I was a fan.” 

Addressing the track on the latest episode of “FLAGRANT,” Schulz made wild remarks about Kendrick Lamar, including claiming that K. Dot used him for clout. Schulz also asserted that he could “make love” to the West Coast rapper whether or not it was consensual.  

However, he began by implying Lamar was a hypocrite before mockingly rapping stereotypical lyrics historically found in Hip-Hop songs. 

“Nobody has respected women more, through art, than rappers,” he quipped. “So I completely understand how a rapper could look at a comedian telling a joke and be like, ‘Yo y’all need to switch that s### up.’ How dare y’all keep saying your wives are annoying?”  

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The conversation became even more bizarre when Andrew Schulz joked about effectively raping Kendrick Lamar.  

“Kendrick’s people and his security, they will destroy me. But just Kendrick?” he said. “I would make love to him. And the only thing that he could do is decide if it’s consensual or not.   

“There’s nothing he could physically do to stop that besides put his legs in the air and choose a position. I would go so far as to say he couldn’t stop most people on the planet from having sex with him.” 

Like O’Shea Jackson Jr. TDE president Terrence “Punch” Henderson was stunned by the remarks.  

“I know as a Blackman who’s involved in Hip Hop Music, that we are a bit slow and don’t really understand sarcasm and humor,” he tweeted. But did my guy say he want to sleep with Dot??” 

Kanye West Accused Of Failing To Pay Over 10 “Vultures” Producers  

Kanye West is reportedly facing possible legal action from more than 10 producers who contributed to Ye and Ty Dolla $ign’s Vultures 1 and Vultures 2, who claim they are yet to be paid for their work on the project. 

According to a Billboard report published Wednesday (December 4), multiple producers have not been compensated. Vultures 1 was released on February 10, while Vultures 2 dropped on August 3. 

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“We have clients who’ve produced music on the Vultures album(s) and have still not been paid for their services even though both albums have been released,” music attorney Bob Celestin told Billboard the outlet. “Presently, we have no idea when payment will be made, which is so unfortunate and unfair. You would think Ye would be more sensitive to this issue because he is a producer.” 

The publication notes that the producers never signed agreements with Kanye West for the Vultures albums. They are therefore unable to collect any producer fees or potential royalties. 

One of the producer’s attorneys told Billboard, “we have no recourse besides to try to sue [West]… but that’s costly.” Another music lawyer noted, “legal claims against Ye don’t really seem to go anywhere.” 

Multiple lawyers who represent Vultures 1 producers allege West has used at least two different attorneys to handle clearances and royalties distribution.  

Furthermore, Billboard reports the producers’ attorneys teamed up earlier this year and prepared to send threatening legal letters to the Vultures albums distributor. However, they claim Ye switched distributors before they could send the letters.  

Kanye West Faces Multiple Lawsuits

Meanwhile, Kanye West is facing multiple lawsuits from former employees. A former security guard sued him over alleged racial bias and improper workplace actions. Ye’s ex-project manager is suing West for discrimination, a hostile work environment, retaliation and non-payment of wages.   

Additionally, Lauren Pisciotta, a former assistant, sued him for sexual harassment and wrongful termination earlier this year. 

Stephen A. Smith Tells Drake: “That Ain’t What Hip-Hop Is” Amid Legal Feud With Kendrick Lamar 

Stephen A. Smith has a message for Drake after hearing that the Toronto superstar was upset by his recent critiques, urging him to address his issues with Kendrick Lamar in the booth rather than the courtroom

The veteran sports personality addressed the topic on the latest episode of the “Stephen A. Smith Show.” 

“I understand that Drake’s a bit sensitive in these times,” he began. “He’s in his feelings.” 

Smith said he’s aware Drake has seen “some of the things I have said about him on this show,” before continuing.  

“To Drake, the artist extraordinaire,” he added. “I did not say or echo a single negative thing about you… What I said was fact. ‘Not Like Us’ got you.” 

Smith elaborated, insisting he was merely encouraging Drake to get back in the studio and didn’t focus on the salacious allegations in K. Dot’s diss.  

“What I’m saying is, you don’t go the lawyer route in Hip-Hop over something like this. You take it to the studio. You take it to the streets. That’s all I said,” Smith said. “I didn’t sit up there and say you can’t answer Kendrick Lamar. I said, ‘You better figure out a way to do so,’ meaning you have the capability, I think, to pull it off. That’s all!” 

Smith concluded by saying that while has “nothing but respect” for Drake, taking his complaints to lawyers was not a good look, especially because of who Lamar is and what he represents.  

Come back with yours, or you say, ‘Damn, he got me,” he said. “If you’re gonna rely on lawyers, then it’s not a good look because that ain’t what Hip-Hop is. That’s all. And if that’s how you feel, then they’re right when they say, ‘Not like us.'” 

Tank Calls Out Homophobia In Black Community, Debunks Gay “Agenda” Myths 

Tank is calling out homophobia in the Black community and dismissing the existence of a so-called “agenda” designed to turn straight Black men gay.  

The topic arose during a recent appearance on the “Holdin Court Podcast” when the R&B singer was asked about his past remarks about same-sex experimentation.  

Tank believes a double standard exists in society, where same-sex experimentation is generally accepted between women but not men, particularly when it comes to Black men. 

It’s us,” he began. “There’s something about Black men and the homosexual conversation that is a mess. The phobia as it relates to Black men is the elephant in the room.’ 

He continued, arguing that the “worst thing” a Black man can be labeled is gay.  

“The first thing somebody’s going to allude to, whether you are gay or not, when they trying to assassinate your character or get off the highest joke imaginable, they’re going gay first,” he added. “It stems from something within our culture that has created this stigma that somehow there’s a program to make Black men gay. You see it everywhere; there’s an attack on strong Black men. But who’s the attack coming from?” 

Tanks Dismisses Gay “Agenda” Theory

Tank questioned how such a thing could exist and dismissed the theory that fashion is being used to feminize Black men. He highlighted Black music icons like Prince, Michael Jackson, Cameo and Rick James, famous for their “androgynous” look. 

“That meant you were in,” Tank said of their style. “It didn’t mean you were gay.” 

He questioned “where does this agenda come from?” adding, “I’ve never seen anything that made me say, Oh wow! I want to be gay. I’m inspired to be gay ‘cuz I saw that outfit or ‘cuz YSL made this shirt.” 

The conversation stemmed from Tank’s comments on Angela Ye’s “Lip Service” podcast back in 2019. Tank was asked if performing oral sex on a man twice would make a man gay. 

“He sucked a dick once, right? Then, he’s like I’m not sure if I liked it or not. Let me try it again, and then he says, ‘You know what? It’s not for me. Don’t like the taste.’ See what I’m saying?” he explained. “It doesn’t mean he’s gay,” he concluded. “It means he sucked dick twice. The art of being gay is being gay. It’s a continuous state of being.” 

Yung Miami Sets Record Straight On Stefon Diggs Romance Rumors 

Yung Miami is clearing the air on her relationship status once and for all after months of being linked to Stefon Diggs. 

Rumors about the “Caresha Please” host dating the NFL star have run rampant since Miami was seen at Houston’s NRG Stadium in October. The gossip intensified following Diggs’ 31st birthday celebrations over the weekend. She was spotted attending the birthday dinner and appeared to post images from a private bash on her Instagram Stories. However, the post was swiftly deleted. 

Furthermore, Yung Miami fueled the flames earlier this week by stepping out in Stefon Diggs’ clothing line, LIEM.  

Then on Wednesday (December 4), Yung Miami finally addressed the mounting rumors in a series of social media posts.  

“Young, Rich, outside, & single!!!!!” she announced. “I can’t fall in love with no hoe!!!” 

Miami also shared a post on her Instagram Stories revealing if it’s not the kind of love Antia Baker crooned about in her 1986 hit song, then she’s not interested.  

“B#### if u aint ready to be caught up in the rapture of love,” the post read, “leave me alone.” 

One relationship that continues to go the distance, despite a falling out and subsequent band breakup, is Yung Miami and her former City Girls partner JT. 

The duo were all smiles after reuniting at JT’s 32nd birthday bash on Wednesday night (December 4). 

Meanwhile, Yung Miami is gearing up for the latest episode of her “Caresha Please” podcast. This time, Miami is grilling Mobile, Alabama, rapper Flo Milli. Check out the trailer below.  

Flavor Flav Claims He Was Kicked Out Of 2024 Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 

Flavor Flav was hanging out backstage at the 92nd annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Rockefeller Center when he was asked to leave. 

On Wednesday evening (December 4), the Public Enemy co-founder was enjoying the festivities that officially kicks off the holiday season in the city. However, it all went downhill after he went to hang out with Backstreet Boys.  

Flav took to X (Twitter) to explain what happened.  

“I feel weird,” he began. “I was invited to the Rockefeller Tree Lighting tonite and I was escorted to see my boys,,, THE BACKSTREET BOYS,,, and we were backstage in their dressing room,,, security came up to me and says @nbc does not want me in this area and I need to leave.” 

He continued, “At the same time,,, their social media woman came up and asked to capture social content. What did I ever do to NBC or anyone,,?? all I ever do is try to spread joy and love,,, and I think I did that for NBC at the Olympics.” 

X/Flavor Flav

Angry Fans Defend Flavor Flav

Many on social media agreed and voiced their support of Flavor Flav while calling out NBC.  

“Shame on @nbc for their shoddy treatment of Flavor Flav,” wrote one fan. “He’s out there spreading joy and kindness and your organization doesn’t want that? I’m sure you were happy with the attention/ money he garnered for you during the Olympics. @FlavorFlav deserves respect and kindness.” 

Another added, “This is some b#######. All that Flavor Flav did for NBC during The Olympics and put his money up to sponsor many US athletes who needed the help. Wtf are y’all doing @nbc.” 

A third noted, “Flavor Flav is a legend in Hip Hop and an innovator. Public Enemy is in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He is also an innovator in another medium: reality TV. And a lot of shows across NBCUniversal would not exist without him, if we are keeping it really real. This man has the biggest heart and is spreading kindness in a world that is cold and cruel. Respect our legends. Do better, NBC.” 

Meanwhile, Flavor Flav deleted his tweet but revealed, “My spirit is broken.” 

Nonetheless, he didn’t miss out on the tree lighting. Check out the video below.  

Comic Andrew Schulz Tries To Shade Kendrick Lamar But Fails

Let me at ’em!

On the intro track of Kendrick Lamar’s album GNX“Wacced Out Murals,” the rapper took aim at several individuals, most notably white comedians.

In a pointed line, he declared, “Don’t let no white comedian talk about no Black woman, that’s law.”

The lyric sparked controversy, with white comedians like Gary Owen voicing their objections, but why? They need to stay in their lane and let it go. Social media users think the line was directed at Andrew Schulz. This dude who had come under fire earlier this year for making controversial jokes about Black women on his podcast, “Andrew Schulz’s Flagrant with Akaash Singh.”

During the episode in question, Schulz was joined by James Duncan and Fuhad Dawodu of the “Shxtsngigs” podcast. WHO ARE THESE PEOPLE? Both Duncan and Dawodu laughed at Schulz’s comments and were judged accordingly. They are Black British podcasters and said “Shorrrrry.” But the white guy is standing firm. You know how this goes.

Schulz quipped, “Nobody has respected women more, through art, than rappers. So I completely understand how a rapper could look at a comedian telling a joke and be like, ‘Yo y’all need to switch that s**t up.’ How dare y’all keep saying your wives are annoying?” And it did not stop there.

Schulz mockingly rapped stereotypical lyrics historically found in Hip-Hop songs, “B####s ain’t nothing but h#s and t#####s, I beat my b####h with a stick.” Dummy could have easily quoted LL Cool J’s “I Need Love,” but he’s a clown.

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Dude is corny.

I hope they slide. LOL!

JAY-Z Didn’t Take An L Despite Weed Company’s $500M Loss

JAY-Z quietly jumped ship from a cannabis company he invested in before it reported a $575 million loss. The Roc Nation mogul, known for his sharp business acumen, appears to have outmaneuvered financial disaster by distancing himself from The Parent Company (TPCO), the cannabis conglomerate that once housed the premium cannabis brand Monogram.

As TPCO’s shocking $575 million loss in 2022 comes to light, sources close to the situation claim JAY-Z stepped away well before the collapse.

A source told TMZ Hip Hop, “Jay-Z stepped away years ago, and it just went up in a mess,” adding that his official separation occurred in December 2022. While TPCO has since merged with Gold Flora, Monogram is now under the control of another LLC, leaving JAY-Z unscathed as the fallout continues.

Launched in 2020, Monogram was marketed as a luxury cannabis brand with an aggressive campaign that boasted features in GQVogue and Vanity Fair. However, the ambitious venture struggled in California’s fiercely competitive market.

Seth Yakatan, a cannabis industry expert, explained to SFGATE that the upscale campaigns opened the door to disaster for the brand. Yakatan says those campaigns cost The Parent Company mind-boggling amounts of money and claims Monogram’s $50 joints were a tough sell in a state flooded with affordable alternatives.

Despite its glamorous debut, insiders suggest Monogram may have played a significant role in TPCO’s financial collapse. The brand, positioned as ultra-premium, faced criticism for underwhelming consumers. A GQ review even pointed out that Monogram’s $50 hand-rolls failed to stay lit—a basic expectation for cannabis enthusiasts.

“Monogram was supposed to be an ultra-premium product, and I don’t know anyone who tried it and thought it was anything more than mid-tier,” Yakatan said.

He also noted that TPCO burned through $575 million in cash, primarily due to overvalued acquisitions, unmet sales projections, and stiff competition.

As TPCO hemorrhaged funds, JAY-Z’s involvement as the brand’s chief visionary officer may have added to the company’s bloated spending. The rapper-turned-mogul’s influence and celebrity cachet drove up the costs of marketing campaigns, which recruited the likes of famed director Hype Williams, yet failed to translate into sales. But by the time TPCO reported its staggering loss and merged with Gold Flora in 2023, JAY-Z had already separated from the cannabis operation.

Meanwhile, Gold Flora, now grappling with over $56 million in losses and lawsuits over unpaid bills, struggles to keep its footing in the industry. With debts far exceeding its assets, industry analysts are already speculating whether the company will face bankruptcy.

For JAY-Z, the cannabis debacle is merely a blip on his otherwise stellar business record. With a $2.5 billion net worth, he has pivoted back to his more successful ventures, including Armand de Brignac champagne, D’Usse cognac and Roc Nation. As Yakatan aptly put it, “The hype hasn’t met the reality” in cannabis ventures tied to rappers—a lesson JAY-Z seems to have learned before the ship sank.

See the post below for the previous ads that came from Monogram while HOV was still attached.

Big Sean Thanks Tyler Perry For Highlighting Black Women Like His Grandma In New Film

Big Sean gave Tyler Perry his flowers at the premiere of his new film The Six Triple Eight — which turned out to be a family affair for him.

On Tuesday (December 3), the Better Than Me MC and his mother attended the screening of the film, which chronicles the inspiring story of Charity Adams, who was previously the highest-ranking African American woman in the Army, and the 6888 Central Postal Directory Battalion during World War II.

Big Sean proudly walked the red carpet hand-in-hand with his mother, while also holding a photo of his grandmother, who was one of the 855 Americans of color who served in the only Women’s only Army Corps unit. During an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Sean praised Perry, who wrote and directed the film, for telling the story of what he considers to be a “crucial” piece of both American and Black history.

“I told Tyler Perry how thankful I was because it’s such an overlooked crucial piece of American history and Black history,” Big Sean said.

“The 6888 battalion connected millions and millions with over 17 million pieces of mail where there was no other means of communication to families and information about loved ones,” he said. “They were fighting their own war being strong Black women during segregation and fighting for their country.”

Big Sean gushed about the pride he holds for not only his grandmother but also the women she served alongside, who he says helped imbue him with the “DNA” he cherishes daily.

“I’m just proud of them,” he added, “Not just my grandmother, proud of all of them. I’m happy to be raised by such strong Black women that are embedded in my DNA and I’m forever grateful for it. It’s a super emotional night.”

EXCLUSIVE: Diddy Claims Feds Spying On Him And Blocking Access To Laptop Critical For Defense

Sean “Diddy” Combs is alleging that prosecutors in his ongoing racketeering and sex trafficking case have been unlawfully surveilling his communications and restricting his access to critical legal resources, including a government-provided laptop.

Diddy, who has been detained in the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn since his September arrest on sex trafficking and RICO charges, has claimed that prosecutors have gone so far as to monitor and record his handwritten legal notes, which he says violates his right to confidentially prepare his defense.

In the letter addressed to U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian, Diddy’s legal team has accused MDC of providing prosecutors with copies of attorney visitation forms without proper oversight.

These forms, which contain details about who Diddy meets with in connection to his legal defense, are potentially privileged information, and his’ attorneys argue that such practices violate his due process rights.

“Who Mr. Combs meets with in connection with his legal defense – including potential experts and investigators – is potentially privileged. Even if not privileged, this level of surveillance offends due process and hampers his ability to prepare his defense,” Agnifilo said. “There is no conceivable reason why the government should know who and when Mr. Combs meets with in connection with his legal defense.”

They are requesting that MDC cease sharing attorney visitation records with prosecutors.

Diddy’s legal team blasted the MDC for not handing over a laptop prosecutors gave him so he could review discovery material and prepare for his upcoming trial, scheduled for next year.

Prosecutors handed the laptop to MDC officials on November 25, but Diddy has yet to receive it, according to his lawyer, Marc Agnifilo.

Diddy is requesting the laptop and unrestricted access.

However, his attorneys argue that restrictions on his laptop use have made it practically impossible for Diddy to adequately assist in his defense.

His lawyers said he was only given two limited options for using the laptop: access it in the unit’s video-teleconference room, contingent on staff availability, or in the legal visiting room during limited hours.

“These restrictions are untenable and… significantly limit the time available for Mr. Combs to use the laptop,” wrote Agnifilo, adding that they also force Combs to choose between meeting with his lawyers or accessing the laptop.

Diddy has been sitting in the MDC lockup facility since September.

On November 27, Judge Arun Subramanian denied Diddy’s fourth motion for release, citing concerns about community safety.

Prosecutors referenced an 8-year-old video of Diddy assaulting Cassie Ventura at the Intercontinental Hotel in Los Angeles as evidence of sex trafficking, though his lawyers claimed the video was altered.

Prosecutors also accused Diddy of using other inmates’ phone access, unauthorized messaging services, and involving his children in a social media campaign for his recent birthday.

Diddy’s lawyers admitted to using PACs but cited MDC’s conditions as justification and argued the government failed to prove witness tampering.

However, Judge Subramanian agreed with prosecutors and sent the mogul back to his jail cell to prepare for his trial, which is slated for May 5, 2025.

The government has yet to formally respond to these requests.

Jennifer Lopez Calls L.A. “Lonely” & Praises Jamie Foxx As Saving Grace On “In Living Color”

Jennifer Lopez has revealed how Jamie Foxx became a beacon of hope for her early on in her career amid her move from the East Coast to the City of Angeles.

On Monday (December 2), Lopez appeared alongside actor Jharrel Jerome for an exclusive conversation with Entertainment Weekly, during which they discussed their shared connection in Foxx. For Jerome, he explained that Foxx, who he says obtained his number through unknown channels, was one of the first stars to reach out to him and tell him to “breathe” following his Oscar-winning performance in the film Moonlight.

As Jerome shared the anecdote about Foxx’s phone call with Lopez, who also hails from New York, he appeared to trigger her past traumas in dealing with living and working in L.A. Subsequently, Lopez launched into a tangent on how Foxx helped her stay the course during her time working on the beloved series In Living Color.

“If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t have made it through that season,” Lopez said.

She continued, revealing that she used to go back and forth between the two costal cities almost exclusively until she and Foxx became close friends.

“That was when I first got to L.A…. I used to [go back to New York] every weekend ’cause I was so lonely — I hated it, I missed my family,” she said.

“Jamie and I, we became really good friends, and we’re still friends to this day, honestly. If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t have got through that.”

She concluded, “I might have moved back to New York, and none of this would have ever happened. We would not be here right now.”

Per Lopez’s own words, if it weren’t for Foxx than her life could have indeed ended up much differently, and she certainly wouldn’t be starring opposite Jerome in their upcoming film Unstoppable which debuts in select theaters on December 6 and streaming on January 16 on Prime Video. The film tells the story of mother Judy and her son Anthony Robles, who was born with one leg and went on to become an NCAA champion wrestler.

Watch the clip above to see JLo’s full remarks on the matter.

Russ Advises Artists To Study “Greatness” Such As Drake, Whom He Says Is Master Of Melodies

Russ is arguing that the quality that most Hip-Hop fans claim makes Drake a soft rapper, also makes him one of the greatest — and the best at said particular skillset.

In tweet he shared featuring a clip from his recent interview with Apple Music, Russ emphasizes the importance of studying the greats as an up-and-coming artist, holding up Drake as a prime example. In the process he passionately declares that the Toronto’s ability to craft melodies isn’t a weakness, but rather a strength aiding his case for the top spot.

“If you’re an up and coming artist, study greatness,” Russ wrote in the message along with the video.

In his initial remarks, Russ gave Drake his flowers by declaring, “Drake is arguably the greatest melody writer in hip-hop history.”

“I don’t even think that’s like… that shouldn’t even be some far-fetched thing,” Russ said, adding that he believes Drake’s ability to craft hit melodies sets him apart from anyone else in the genre, adding, “This dude has written more hit melodies than I think anyone in rap ever.”

As he continued, Russ addresses critics who might dismiss melody writing in rap, countering their arguments with an assertive argument affirming the ideology that a s#### is indeed a s####.

“Yeah, you can do the whole, like ‘Well, this is rap it’s not about melody writing,’ and like, who cares? dawg, shut up!” he said. “Greatness is greatness.”

He went on to explain his view that Drake’s unparalleled ability to write melodies is a feat that transcends genre boundaries and further adds to his arsenal as an artsit.

“For somebody to come through and write that many hit melodies, that s##t is insane,” he said. “I don’t care what box it was supposed to be in, if it was supposed to be rap or what, it doesn’t matter.”

To illustrate his point further, Russ uses a hypothetical scenario to strip away preconceived notions about established artists by highlighting one of Drake’s acclaimed albums.

“I always tell people like, f##k all this s##t,” he said. “Look at these people [artists] like human beings that if you didn’t know them from a can of paint, they walked into the room and said, ‘Yo, I just made this album, check this out,’ and you thought they were an up-and-coming artist… and they press play and it’s Take Care you’d be like, ‘You’re f###ing insane.’”

Russ concluded bu remarking on his stance that people often take greatness for granted because of its frequency, but when approached with fresh eyes, the brilliance of artists like Drake becomes undeniable.

Watch the clip in full in the post above.