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Diddy Alleged Escort “The Punisher” Details “Freak-Offs” In New Book

The Sean “Diddy” Combs trial heard testimony from former escort Sharay Hayes, who detailed a series of explicit hotel encounters involving the embattled Hip-Hop mogul and Cassie Ventura, revealing he later chronicled the experiences in a self-published book.

Known professionally as “The Punisher,” Hayes told the court he was hired between 2012 and 2014 to perform in what were described as “freak-offs” — erotic scenes orchestrated by Cassie, who used the alias “Janet.”

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Hayes said he was unaware of her or Diddy’s identities at first. According to Hayes, Cassie greeted him in a robe and wig and explained the scene would involve “mutually applying” baby oil.

“[Diddy] wanted us to keep our bodies covered, to shine,” Hayes testified, adding that Diddy would remain at a distance, often in a cap, silently observing and giving “subtle directions to Miss Ventura based on, like I said, angles and lighting, positioning and sometimes the sexual activity.”

Hayes said Cassie instructed him not to speak to or look at Diddy during the encounters. “Try not to look at him and no communication,” she allegedly told him. He said she often glanced toward Diddy for cues mid-act.

Hayes says he participated in between eight and 12 “freak-offs” and was paid between $1,200 and $2,000 per session. He said he was eventually dropped after one session where he failed to maintain an e#######. He also testified he never saw drugs or cameras during any of the sessions.

In court, Hayes disclosed that he initially thought he was the only escort involved but later learned he was one of over a dozen male escorts mentioned in prosecution evidence.

Diddy & Cassie Ventura Encounters Feature In Hayes’ Book

Hayes later wrote about the experiences in his book In Search of Freezer Meat, where he referred to Diddy and Cassie as a “married wealthy couple,” without naming them.

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He testified that “six-and-a-half pages” of the book detail his sexual encounters with the pair.

In the book, Hayes recounted being hired by “Janet” to create “sexy, erotic scenes” and said he realized the man watching was Diddy after seeing “Welcome Sean Combs” on the hotel TV screen.

He claimed Diddy sometimes wore a veil or face covering and would toss cash and condoms on the bed, saying, “I like this s###,” while watching.

Hayes admitted in court that he exaggerated some aspects of Cassie’s character in the book but confirmed that the events aligned with his testimony.

Rod Wave Hit With 13 Felony Charges In Georgia Arrest

Rod Wave was taken into custody Tuesday (May 20) in Fulton County on a laundry list of felony charges tied to an April 21 incident, marking another legal hurdle for the chart-topping Hip-Hop artist.

The 25-year-old rapper, born Rodarius Marcell Green, is facing 13 felony counts, including aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during a felony, pointing a gun at another person, criminal damage to property, reckless conduct and tampering with evidence, according to arrest documents obtained by AllHipHop.

He was released later that same day after posting surety bonds.

While authorities have not confirmed the details of the alleged incident, online speculation linked the case to Mini Barbie, also known as Nari, Rod Wave’s current girlfriend.

Unverified social media chatter suggested he may have fired at her or her vehicle, but police have not publicly addressed those claims.

This arrest adds to Rod Wave’s prior run-ins with the law. In 2022, he faced a battery charge stemming from a domestic dispute, which was later dropped.

In 2024, he was arrested in Florida on a firearm-related charge. However, that case was dismissed after his legal team argued he was misidentified as a convicted felon. His attorneys at the time said there was “absolutely no evidence of wrongdoing.”

No court dates have been announced, and neither Rod Wave nor his legal team has commented publicly on the current charges.

Rod Wave Public Spat With Girlfriend & Ex

The arrest comes on the heels of a messy public feud earlier this year involving Mini Barbie and Rod Wave’s ex-girlfriend Dee, the mother of his twin daughters.

Adding more fuel to the fire, a woman named Zaria recently alleged that Rod Wave fathered her newborn daughter.

He denied the claim and accused her of extortion, posting screenshots that showed he had sent her $5,000 and alleging she demanded $35,000 for either an abortion or a business investment.

In the midst of the drama, Rod Wave posted a remorseful message on Instagram, writing: “I’m so sorry. Ain’t even go through with it. I ruined everything. Embarrassing you, hurting you and you was there for me. I’m so sorry I hurt you. These people so wrong about me. I’m sorry you the purest person I ever known, and you don’t deserve that. I had it in my hand, but I ain’t shoot.” He ended the post with: “Y’all I f***ed up bad.”

Rap Slots with Loads of Street Cred

Hip-Hop is everywhere. From fashion runways to sneaker drops and Netflix documentaries, the culture stays influential and keeps evolving. Now it’s even spinning on the reels — literally. Rap-themed slot games are carving out their own space in the world of online entertainment, bringing beats, bars, and bankrolls together in one surprisingly fresh mash-up.

You might raise an eyebrow at the idea, but these aren’t your average slots. Today’s rap-inspired games aren’t just flashing lights and empty gimmicks. They bring authentic energy and a visual style that taps into the soul of the culture. Think boombox bonuses, gold chain jackpots, and decks that hit with graffiti wilds and vinyl spins. Developers are taking the time to pay homage to the look, sound, and feel of real hip-hop without watering it down or turning it into parody.

Part of the appeal lies in how far the game design has come. We’re talking slick animations, sample-heavy soundtracks, and characters that feel like they stepped off a mixtape cover. And while some games lean into old-school aesthetics, others feature updated, digital-age graphics that mirror today’s rap landscape. It’s about blending nostalgia with now.

One of the most popular online slot games features a high-profile collab that brought a platinum-selling rapper into the virtual casino world. The game isn’t just co-signed, it was built with direct input from the artist’s creative team. That means everything from the background score to the symbols on the reels reflects the personality and legacy of the artist. It hits differently when the details feel that real.

These games aren’t just cool because of the visuals or the beats either. They’ve got built-in features that make the experience immersive and engaging, like level-up progressions that feel like unlocking mixtapes or albums, and bonus rounds that let you step into the shoes of a rising MC chasing the charts. There’s strategy involved, not just luck, and it brings a sense of narrative to a space that’s often all about quick wins.

What’s especially dope is how inclusive the space is becoming. These slots aren’t just focusing on one coast, one era, or one style. There are games inspired by the gritty lyricism of East Coast legends, the bounce of Southern rap, the shimmer of West Coast vibes, and the DIY spirit of underground scenes. It’s a celebration, not a stereotype.

As Hip-Hop continues to shape global culture, it makes sense that it’s also reimagining how people engage with digital entertainment. Rap slots are more than a novelty, they’re part of the genre’s evolution, branching into unexpected places while keeping the culture’s heartbeat alive.

So whether you’re a long-time fan of the mic or just curious about new ways to vibe with the culture, these slots are worth a spin. No gimmicks, just a game with real hip-hop flavour.

“Free Puff” Was Just Free Promo?

I think our big mystery is solved because it was never a mystery.

As Diddy faces federal charges for sex trafficking and racketeering, among others, a controversy began brewing beyond the courtroom. Protesters outside the Manhattan courthouse were reportedly offered cash to wear shirts that say “Free Diddy” or “Free Puff.” But there’s more to this.

Journalist Emilie Hagen (I got ya name), who’s been covering the trial, shared a video on Instagram featuring a woman who said she refused to wear a shirt for $20. We’ve all see this, but so many people reposted, I couldn’t immediately get to the source. Another person said they got $60 to stand outside for three hours. Better than nothing, I guess…BUT…some of us noticed the sort of people getting the money. Was this “protest” exploiting unhoused individuals to create the illusion of grassroots support? OK, let us go further.

Promo or Protest?
Apparently, the payment was a marketing play “for a Diddy coin,” an apparent reference to the meme cryptocurrency $DIDDY. The coin was launched earlier this month by Diddy’s sons, Justin and King Combs. Their marketing worked because I certainly hadn’t heard about it prior to its May 8 arrival. But, they put their money where their mouth was. A $5,000 contest for the best Diddy meme has moved the needle a bit. The marketing approach has drawn criticism but whatever. Do people even care anymore?

I don’t know much about crypto, but somebody told me that it was “sniped” by a “wallet.” Can somebody explain in the comments how this adversely impacted the new Diddy coin?

I wonder if they’re raising money for Diddy’s post-prison life? Some experts seem to feel like he’s going to get out of this mess. I’m not convinced. Either way, he’s going to need all the money he can get.

-illseed out!

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Diddy Allegedly Wore Women’s Burka To Freak-Offs, Forced Lie Detector Tests On Employees

Diddy allegedly required his employees to undergo lie detector tests when his valuables went missing and disguised himself in a full-body niqab at sex parties to avoid being recognized, according to sworn testimony presented in court.

Former assistant David James, who worked for Diddy between 2007 and 2009, testified that he was subjected to polygraph testing more than once during his employment at Bad Boy Entertainment.

“This is Mr. Combs’ kingdom. We’re all here to serve in it,” James recalled being told when he was hired.

During questioning by Assistant U.S. Attorney Slavik, James confirmed he had taken a lie detector, adding that only he and the examiner were present.

James said the tests were triggered by missing items, including a watch Diddy believed had been stolen.

“It was very intimidating. They put monitors on my head, my chest and my hand.” When asked if he could have refused, James replied, “Not to keep my job.”

He also recounted that Capricorn Clark, a music executive and creative director who worked with Diddy at Revolt TV and Combs Enterprises, was once forced to take a polygraph to prove she hadn’t stolen jewelry.

“Once Capricorn Clark had to take a lie detector to prove she wasn’t part of a heist of Mr. Combs’ jewelry,” James said.

In separate testimony, Sharay Hayes, who goes by “The Punisher,” claimed he attended multiple sex parties with Diddy and Cassie Ventura at upscale New York hotels, including Trump International and Essex House.

Hayes alleged that Diddy initially concealed his identity by wearing a black niqab, a traditional Islamic garment that covers the body and face, leaving only the eyes visible.

As Diddy grew more comfortable, Hayes said the mogul swapped the niqab for a baseball cap. Hayes estimated he had between eight and twelve encounters with the couple. Diddy has denied all allegations through his legal team.

While his attorneys acknowledged past domestic violence, they rejected claims of sex trafficking and racketeering.

The testimony was part of ongoing legal proceedings tied to multiple lawsuits and federal probes into Diddy’s alleged behavior spanning years.

Details Emerge On EBK Jaaybo Arrest Just Before NBA YoungBoy Tour

EBK Jaaybo was taken into custody by Arkansas State Police on Sunday (May 18) in Pope County after authorities say they found him with a weapon, drugs and stolen property.

The 21-year-old rapper has not been released by officials, now faces three charges: criminal use of a weapon, possession of a controlled substance and theft by receiving.

He remains behind bars in Pope County as of Tuesday (May 20), with no public information available regarding bail or court dates.

The arrest comes at a pivotal moment for Jaaybo, who had just been announced as a performer on NBA YoungBoy’s upcoming “MASA” (Make America Slime Again) tour.

This marks Jaaybo’s second run-in with law enforcement this year. On March 6, he was arrested on charges that included drug possession, ammunition violations, driving without a license and violating probation.

He was released on bond less than two weeks later on March 19. Before that, Jaaybo had served over a year in San Joaquin County Jail for illegal gun possession. His legal troubles have continued to mount even as his music career gains momentum.

Despite his ongoing legal issues, Jaaybo is still expected to drop his new album, Don’t Trust Me, on May 30.

READ: Diddy’s Must-Have Items According To Assistant

Diddy demanded applesauce, Ecstasy and a Louis Vuitton bag stocked with pills and cash, according to his former assistant who testified Tuesday (May 20) in a federal courtroom during the Hip-Hop mogul’s sex trafficking and racketeering trial.

David James, who worked for Diddy from 2007 to 2009, told jurors he was responsible for maintaining a rotating inventory of personal items for Combs, including toiletries, drugs and sexual supplies — all of which had to be ready at a moment’s notice.

“I’d bring him apple sauce, jello, Fiji water. His toiletry bag with ointments, Just for Men, we bought 40 items so he wouldn’t call us later,” James said under oath. “I’d get a key, like at the Trump International.”

James said he was also tasked with preparing a Louis Vuitton bag that doubled as a mobile pharmacy and cash stash.

“I’d set up the medicine bag in the personal LV bag,” he said. When asked what was inside, James replied, “A Viagra, Ecstasy, percs—”

James testified he often used his own money to keep the stash full.

“I’d use my personal credit card, Bad Boy paid me back,” he said, referring to Combs’ entertainment company.

James also described stocking hotel rooms with an array of intimate products. According to his testimony, he regularly purchased baby oil, Astroglide lubricant and condoms — all paid for in cash.

The former assistant said he sometimes filled prescriptions under his own name, including Percocet, and claimed Combs took Ecstasy daily. James admitted to taking the drug himself during one of Combs’ parties, saying, “Yes. I was drinking Ciroc, I took Ecstasy, I was Diddy-bopping.”

He added that Combs later confronted him about it after reviewing party footage.

“He asked me, ‘Hey Playboy, was that you dancing around at the party?’ I said yes and he said, ‘I’m going to keep the video in case I ever need it.’”

When asked what that meant, James replied, “That I’d be embarrassed.”

Combs is facing federal charges including sex trafficking, racketeering and transporting individuals for prostitution. The trial continues this week in New York.

Rosa Acosta, Trinidad James Tapped To Host Miss Caribbean LA Beauty Pageant

Trinidad James will team up with Rosa Acosta to co-host the 2025 Miss Caribbean LA Pageant at Sola Beehive on Saturday, May 31, bringing celebrity energy and cultural pride to an event that blends fashion and philanthropy with Caribbean heritage.

The second annual Miss Caribbean LA (MCLA), presented by Uber Eats and Taste of the Caribbean LA, returns with a broader mission: to uplift women of Caribbean descent, honor the memory of Corlette James and raise funds for the Lymphoma Research Foundation and Corlette Malcolm James Charities.

“This event goes beyond celebrating beauty—it’s about honoring culture, uniting communities, and championing a cause greater than ourselves,” said Chef Bernard James, the pageant’s founder and executive producer.

“What began as a tribute born from personal loss has evolved into a powerful movement—one that uplifts young women, celebrates Caribbean identity, and showcases the richness and diversity of the diaspora.”

The 2025 edition will feature a redesigned Pink Carpet, a visual tribute to those affected by lymphoma, blending glamor with purpose. The event will occur at Sola Beehive, a venue known for hosting culturally driven events in South Los Angeles.

Trinidad James, a two-time Grammy winner and philanthropist, said he’s honored to be part of something more than just a pageant.

“To be awarded the honor of hosting The Caribbean LA Pageant is something that I don’t take for granted. It shows that growth is the vision, and it is important to make sure our ladies are protected in this Caribbean Pageant ecosystem that Chef Bernard has built. The Miss Caribbean La Pageant, first of all, gives young women hope. Beauty can be misused if not used correctly. Being pretty is not just a social media picture for likes but way more of a responsibility of self, community and much more,” he said.

Rosa Acosta, a Dominican-born model and entrepreneur, echoed the importance of cultural connection.

“As a woman native of the Dominican Republic living in Los Angeles, I have always looked for people who keep me closer to my roots and being the host of MCLA is allowing me to strengthen my Caribbean tribe. Representation is very important to me, seeing talented, accomplished women from all over the Caribbean will inspire our community and break the stereotypes we face in our society,” she said.

The inaugural event in 2024 featured 13 contestants from six Caribbean nations, setting the tone for what organizers hope will become a long-standing tradition.

This year’s pageant promises a larger platform, deeper community engagement and a continued focus on celebrating Caribbean excellence.

The event is scheduled for Saturday (May 31) from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Sola Beehive, 1000 E. 60th St. in Los Angeles.

Mel Gibson & Danny Glover Reunite At Fan Expo—Will “Lethal Weapon 5” Ever Happen?

Wait a second…what do we have here?

Mel Gibson and Danny Glover pulled off a reunion that’s got old-school action fans gripping their shoulder holsters. I’m cracking up at my own joke. I know this isn’t Hip-Hop, but I want to take it back a few. The iconic Lethal Weapon duo showed up together over the weekend at Fan Expo Philadelphia, providing new hope that Lethal Weapon 5 might still be coming.

These guys are up there, 69 and 78 respectively. They could both be too old for this.

The pair sat down for a fan panel, where they chatted about the legacy of the franchise and teased—once again—the possibility of the fifth film finally getting made. Though there’s no confirmed date, but just seeing these two side-by-side again was enough to set the fandom ablaze.

Big fans of the franchise know: This isn’t new news. Talks about Lethal Weapon 5 go back years, and the project has been stuck in Hollywood limbo longer than Riggs (Mel Gibson’s character) has been crazy. Richard Donner directed all four previous movies, but he passed away in 2021. Everybody assumed it was a wash at that point. Enter Mel who is on a never-ending redemption tour…he’s looking to save it!

He said he’d direct the fifth film himself, in honor of his late friend. Danny Glover was all in, too. They both committed to reprising their legendary roles as Riggs and Murtaugh. Still, we don’t know.

Speaking to ComicBook last year, Gibson said, “I don’t know, and that’s the funny thing… there’s 1,000,001 reasons why something goes and why it doesn’t. So it’s really kind of a crapshoot at this point what goes first and which came first, whether it’s the chicken or the egg.”

I have no idea what this means, but we’ll see soon enough. But hey, this reunion might just be the signal fans needed to believe that the boys are gearing up one last time. Just don’t ask them to run. Seriously.

More on this later as we’ll roll out our content from the Fan Expo Philadelphia.

READ ALSO: Rapper Ras Kass Samples Mel Gibson Rant

EXCLUSIVE: Big U Planning To Represent Himself In RICO Case

Big U is preparing to defend himself in a sweeping federal RICO case after his attorney asked to exit the case over irreconcilable differences.

The Los Angeles community figure, whose real name is Eugene Henley Jr., told the court he intends to act as his own lawyer after Arturo Hernandez filed a motion to withdraw from the case.

Hernandez cited a complete breakdown in communication and trust, saying he could no longer effectively represent Big U.

“The attorney-client relationship has deteriorated to the point where continued representation would be unfair to both the client and the court,” Hernandez stated in his filing.

Big U, who has been in federal custody since his March 19 arrest, said he lacks the money to hire a new lawyer. Big U and 18 others tied to the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips were indicted on March 17 in a federal RICO case that includes charges of murder, drug trafficking, robbery and more.

Prosecutors allege the group operated a criminal enterprise that used violence and social media to maintain control in the Los Angeles area.

The indictment also accuses Big U of using his non-profit, Developing Options, as a front to launder money and hide illegal activity.

One of the most serious allegations involves the 2021 killing of rapper Rayshawn Williams, who was signed to Big U’s label.

Big U’s trial is scheduled to begin in May 2026.

Tory Lanez Case Reignited As Congresswoman Says Panel Reviewing Megan Thee Stallion Shooting

Tory Lanez became the center of renewed legal and public scrutiny Monday (May 20) after Rep. Anna Paulina Luna announced that a new judicial panel has been seated to review the rapper’s controversial conviction for shooting Megan Thee Stallion in 2020.

The California Court of Appeals has consolidated Lanez’s direct appeal, habeas petition and successive habeas filing, signaling that oral arguments are on the horizon.

The move comes after Luna voiced strong concerns about the fairness of Lanez’s trial and sentencing.

“Tory Lanez was sentenced to 10 years, despite having no prior record, largely due to a firearm enhancement law now under scrutiny for racial bias. Black defendants face a 92% higher rate of this enhancement. That’s not justice. That’s discrimination,” Luna said.

Tory Lanez was convicted in December 2022 for shooting Megan in both feet outside a Hollywood Hills party in July 2020.

He is currently serving a 10-year sentence in a California prison, where he was recently stabbed 14 times by another inmate.

Luna, a Republican congresswoman from Florida, said new evidence will be submitted to the court that could exonerate Lanez. She cited forensic inconsistencies and mishandled evidence as major red flags.

“Newly surfaced bodycam and medical records show Megan Thee Stallion initially claimed she stepped on glass. ER records show no bullet fragments on X-rays. Bullet fragments allegedly removed are now missing. Evidence handling was a disaster,” Luna said.

She also pointed to the lack of Lanez’s DNA on the weapon and magazine, and the absence of fingerprints.

“Justice isn’t served when due process is ignored, evidence is mishandled, and race plays a role in sentencing. Tory Lanez deserves a fair hearing—and if justice prevails, he deserves his freedom,” she added.

Luna criticized the prosecution for using Lanez’s rap lyrics and tattoos as evidence, calling it a violation of free speech protections. She also highlighted conflicting witness statements and immunity deals that clouded the case.

Megan responded to the renewed push to overturn Lanez’s conviction with a furious TikTok post on Monday (May 19).

“At what point are yall gonna stop making me have to re live being shot BY TORY !? At what point are Tory and yall FANS gonna stop lying ? Like how much is the check to keep harassing me? Why is this happening EVERY DAY (sic)?”

She continued, “One min him/ yall said I was never shot now yall letting him play in yall face AGAIN and say I was shot but it wasn’t him oh okay… ?! I’m sick of this s**t LEAVE ME TF ALONE!!!!”

The backlash against Megan reignited after Lanez’s legal team held a press conference following his prison stabbing, repeating the theory that Kelsey Harris, not Tory Lanez, shot the rapper.

Attorney Walter Roberts shared a statement from Bradley James, a former bodyguard for Harris, who claims he overheard Harris admit to firing the gun.

“Mr. James informed Unite the People that he was witness to the conversation Miss Harris had where she stated she had the gun, she fired it three times. Mr. Peterson grabbed her arm and knocked it down,” causing the gun to fire two more times, according to Roberts.

The prison attack on Lanez has sparked a wave of support from some in the entertainment world. According to Luna, the rapper is in good spirits.

“Just spoke with Tory Lanez from inside prison. Despite being stabbed multiple times, his spirit remains unbroken—and he’s deeply grateful for the opportunity to prove his innocence,” Luna said.

Drake and Amber Rose shared a Change.org petition urging California Governor Gavin Newsom to pardon Lanez.

Drake added “Come home soon,” words that may prove prophetic.

Seven Wonders Of The Hip-Hop World: Part I—7 Albums That Changed Rap History

Writer Shad Reed gets past the trends and into the immortal albums that have shaped Hip-Hop.

An onslaught of Hip-Hop “Mount Rushmores ” has recently flooded social media and various internet spaces to continue the never-ending debate of “the best.” However, with all due respect to the four faces on that sculpture in South Dakota, a more appropriate equivalent, given Hip-Hop’s rich history, is the Seven Wonders of the World.

Unlike the faces of the four former presidents, who were people etched in stone on Mount Rushmore, there’s no official list of the Seven Wonders of the World. A German scholar named Wilhelm Heinrich Roscher acquired a list of 18 known lists of wonders of the ancient world. Roscher’s findings, first published in 1906, only identified two identical ones (one of which was suspected to be a copy of the other) of the eighteen lists.  Roescher’s research also revealed that there were 22 names and 82 places.  In the early 2000s, a foundation in Switzerland conducted a worldwide poll to determine “the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.” While one list emerged, it still received criticism because it allowed people to cast multiple votes, which was deemed unscientific. Plus, the seven winners came from 22 candidates, which began with 77—still lots of room for interpretation.

Therefore, whether Hip-Hop or historical landmarks, there’s no right or wrong answer if the passion is genuine. It all comes down to defending the choices made. And so, here are seven albums that many agree changed rap for the better. And just as there are “Seven Wonders of the Ancient World” and “Seven Wonders of the Modern World,” it’s only right that Hip-Hop albums receive two separate collections, too. These are not ranked either but instead presented in chronological order. Stayed tuned for Part II.

Raising Hell by Run-DMC (1986)

While Run-DMC’s eponymous debut is a classic, it wasn’t until their third offering that Run, DMC and Jam Master Jay perfected, to paraphrase a line from “My Adidas,” taking the beat from the street and putting it on TV.  It’s also a masterclass in song concepts, most notably “It’s Tricky” (a rap song about how hard it is to rhyme) and “Walk This Way,” a cover and collaboration with the record’s originators, Aerosmith, proving that rap wasn’t something to be feared but embraced. 

Paid in Full by Eric B. & Rakim (1987)

Rakim is regarded as the “God MC” because of the skillset he demonstrated here.  His esteemed lyricism set a bar that rappers today are still trying to match (and very few have). The production perfectly emphasized his words, and Rakim elevated rap from rhyming on a beat to delivering poetry over music. Paid in Full is the first album showing that rap albums are truly an art form, not just a collection of records. The game hasn’t been the same since.

It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back by Public Enemy (1988)

Public Enemy’s second album proved that Hip-Hop can bring about social change. The project’s uptempo feel brought an energy to it that was previously unseen and ultimately made it that much more effective. Chuck D’s commanding voice, Flavor Flav’s charisma and The Bomb Squad’s sonic landscapes created a sense of urgency that no one could avoid.

The Low End Theory by A Tribe Called Quest (1991)

Other Native Tongues albums from artists like The Jungle Brothers, De La Soul and Queen Latifah preceded this. However, during this sophomore set from Tribe, the movement reached its apex. Drums. Jazz samples. Creative and conscious lyrics. No matter how anyone checked the rhyme, A Tribe Called Quest was always on point. Last but not least, “Scenario” introduced Busta Rhymes to the mainstream with one of the most legendary guest verses in rap history.

The Chronic by Dr. Dre (1992)

The Chronic album is one of the best albums ever produced in any genre, not just Hip-Hop. Dr. Dre’s mastery behind the boards is on full display; his ability to make aggressive content sound smooth was unprecedented. Additionally, the chemistry with Snoop Dogg that was already apparent from “Deep Cover” continued its evolution and resulted in some of the best Hip-Hop music ever. Therefore, it is no surprise that in 2019 the Library of Congress selected the album for preservation in the National Recording Registry.

Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) by Wu-Tang Clan (1993)

Atop cinematic beats and some cool samples (including the theme song to “Underdog”), Hip-Hop maestro The RZA assembled a nine-man collective, whose debut reflected the gritty New York streets in a truly original way. Inspired by Eastern cinema and kung-fu, how he incorporated those elements in his and fellow rhymesayers’ depictions of their humble upbringing is nothing short of brilliant. “C.R.E.A.M.” is slang that Wu introduced, which still hasn’t gone out of style, and “Protect Ya Neck” is arguably one of the greatest debut singles spawned from the Hip-Hop genre.

Illmatic by Nas (1994)

With Illmatic, Nas fulfilled the promise he showed on Main Source’s “Live at the BBQ” and “Back to the Grill.”  With lyrical abilities unseen since Rakim, the 10-track LP was already something spectacular. The icing on the cake, though, was that he also assembled all of the top New York producers to create a cohesive album that came together perfectly. Even in Nas’ famous battle with JAY-Z, Jigga had to tip his hat to this fantastic release. “Four albums in 10 years, n####? I could divide/That’s one every, let’s say two, two of them s#### was doo/One was nah, the other was Illmatic /That’s a one hot album every 0 year average.”

To Be Continued…

Kanye West’s South Korea Concert Scrapped Over “Controversies”

Kanye West lost another international stage after the abrupt cancellation of his planned concert in South Korea due to ongoing backlash over his recent behavior and lyrics.

The performance, originally scheduled for Saturday (May 31) at Incheon’s Munhak Stadium, was scrapped by Coupang Play, the streaming arm of South Korean e-commerce giant Coupang, and ticket distributor Interpark.

The companies issued a joint statement on Interpark’s website, saying, “We regret to inform you that the Ye Live In Korea concert, originally scheduled for Saturday, May 31, 2025, has been cancelled due to recent controversies involving the artist Kanye West (Ye). We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience this may cause. We kindly ask for your understanding.”

While the statement didn’t specify which controversies led to the decision, the move follows a string of public incidents involving West, including releasing a song titled “Heil Hitler” in May.

The track has drawn widespread condemnation and reportedly gained traction among neo-Nazi groups, according to reports.

In addition to pulling the plug on the concert, Coupang also removed West’s Yeezy merchandise from its online marketplace on Monday, further distancing itself from the rapper’s brand.

“All purchased tickets will be automatically cancelled, and full refunds will be processed sequentially,” the companies confirmed.

West’s recent behavior has included a barrage of offensive posts on social media, where he has shared misogynistic, anti-Semitic and anti-LGBTQ rhetoric.

The fallout has led to mounting professional consequences, including severed partnerships and canceled appearances. The now-canceled concert would have marked West’s first major solo performance in South Korea.

Azealia Banks Slams Megan Thee Stallion Over Tory Lanez Outburst

Azealia Banks called out Megan Thee Stallion on Monday (May 19) over her latest outburst aimed at Tory Lanez, accusing the rapper of overreacting and stirring up drama while Lanez remains hospitalized in jail.

The Hip-Hop provocateur took to X, formerly Twitter, to weigh in after Megan Thee Stallion posted a heated TikTok message demanding Lanez “leave me alone.”

Banks questioned the timing and logic behind Megan’s claims, writing, “Sis, Tory is in a jail hospital, probably knocked out on a sedative and pain meds trying to heal. When did HE say anything?”

Banks continued, “HE hasn’t even told his fans he is okay…. The public doesn’t have proof the man is still alive, no photos no word from the family…. Girl, – is that D’EVILS in your head making you spazz like this? If I were you I would caaaalllmmm dowwn. You’re making the block hot. Shhhh @theestallion.”

X/Azealia Banks

The commentary came after Megan’s viral TikTok post earlier that day, in which she slammed Lanez and his supporters for resurfacing conspiracy theories about the 2020 shooting.

“Ain’t no new f###### evidence,” she said. “Yall been saying the same s### for years TORY PLEASE LEAVE ME ALONE you a f###### demon. I’m off this silly ass internet sht, BYE.” She doubled down, adding, “HE KNOWS HE DID THAT S###.”

Tory Lanez’s Attorneys Alleged Kelsey Harris Shot Megan Thee Stallion

Megan’s frustration followed a press conference by Lanez’s legal team, who claimed Kelsey Harris’ former bodyguard overheard Harris confess to firing the gun.

Lanez’s attorneys argued he only tried to stop her. Megan and her legal team rejected that narrative, maintaining that the court’s decision was final.

Meanwhile, Megan is still locked in a separate legal battle with blogger Milagro Gramz, whom she sued in October 2024 for defamation, cyberstalking and distributing deepfake pornography. Gramz recently lost her local attorney, Michael A. Pancier, due to unpaid fees and “irreconcilable differences,” though she remains represented by Michael Hayden and Unite the People, Inc.—the same nonprofit backing Lanez’s defense.

Lanez is currently serving a 10-year sentence after being convicted in 2023 for shooting Megan in July 2020.

Wendy Williams Was Allegedly Moved To Memory Care Unit After 60th Birthday Relapse

Wendy Williams landed in the memory care wing of her assisted living facility after allegedly slipping away to a rooftop bar and drinking on her 60th birthday, according to a new documentary that raises fresh concerns about her health and guardianship.

In the new Lifetime special TRAPPED: What Is Happening to Wendy Williams?, veteran journalist Diane Dimond detailed the July 18 incident, saying the former talk show host left her care unit unsupervised and made her way to the top floor of the building.

“Wendy was on the third floor in this care unit, where she has access to the hallways, to the elevators,” Dimond said. “And on her birthday, she decided to get in the elevator and see where she could go. Well, it went all the way up to the rooftop bar, and it being her birthday, she ordered a drink, and then another one, and another. Who knows how many, but she will admit to you that she got drunk, she had a relapse.”

The birthday bender reportedly led to Williams being transferred to a secured memory unit within the same facility, where her movements are now more restricted.

Wendy Williams Admits Drinking On Her Birthday

Back in March, Williams acknowledged the incident during a phone interview on The View, saying, “But I must admit to you, that when I got from Connecticut to New York, it was my birthday, you know, July 18, and yes, I celebrated, you know what I’m saying? But no more, no more alcohol, thank you.”

Williams, who has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia and aphasia, has been under a court-appointed guardianship since 2022.

Her family has said they have been largely cut off from contact and have raised concerns about her care and the people managing her affairs.

Williams expressed frustration with her current legal arrangement during that same View interview.

“I am a college-educated woman, global international person from radio to television,” she asserted. “I’ve been doing important things all of my life, and these two people don’t look like me, they don’t dress like me, they don’t talk like me, they don’t act like me… They will never be me.”

She continued, “I need them to — with my knees — get off my neck. I can’t do it with these two people again. I can’t. And I’m speaking of the guardian and the judge. I need a new guardian.”

Despite the relapse, Williams insisted she is committed to staying sober, telling The View she is now living an “alcohol-free” life.

Beyoncé Fans Rip President Trump Over Call To Investigate Singer

Beyoncé fans are coming for President Donald Trump after he ignited a social media firestorm Monday (May 19) by demanding a federal probe into the singer.

President Trump called for investigations into Beyoncé’s appearance at campaign events supporting former Vice President Kamala Harris.

The president also said Harris made “illegal campaign contributions” by allegedly paying the music icon $11 million for her involvement.

In a series of all-caps posts, President Trump asked, “HOW MUCH DID CROOKED ‘PHONEY’ KAMALA PAY BEYONCÉ AND SPRINGSTEEN, AND OPRAH, AND BONO, AND ALL THE REST, TO SHOW UP AND SUPPORT HER?”

President Trump offered no proof to back his claims but insisted Harris used celebrity appearances to “artificially build up her sparse crowds” and called the tactic a “corrupt & unlawful way to capitalize on a broken system.”

He also took a personal jab at Bruce Springsteen, calling him a “dried out prune of a rocker” and telling him to “KEEP HIS MOUTH SHUT” after the singer labeled the President “corrupt, incompetent and treasonous” during a concert.

The backlash from Beyoncé’s loyal supporters, known as the Beyhive, was immediate and relentless.

One user wrote, “Trump left his first term in utter disaster. Historic levels of American Death, Debt, and Dependency, but somehow you want to trust the proven loser to somehow be extraordinary He’s more focused on investigating Beyoncé and Springsteen.”

Another added, “Donald Trump wants you talking about investigating Beyoncé so he can cut healthcare for 13.7 million Americans. Don’t let him get away with it.”

The accusations didn’t stop with Beyoncé and Springsteen. President Trump also named Oprah Winfrey and Bono in his rant, demanding to know if they were paid for their support of Harris.

He claimed candidates “aren’t allowed to pay for endorsements,” suggesting Harris may have funneled payments under the guise of “paying for entertainment.”

No evidence has been presented to support any of President Trump’s allegations, and Harris’ campaign has not responded to the accusations.

The Beyhive, however, made their stance clear.

“I’ve cackled hard cause he truly & entirely hasn’t grasp the power that woman holds cause by the time he’s done he’ll be on his crutches,” one user posted.

Cassie Ventura’s Mom Took Out Loan To Pay Off Diddy Over Sex Tape Threat

Regina Ventura told a federal courtroom Tuesday (May 20) that she took out a loan to pay Diddy $20,000 after he allegedly threatened to release a sex tape of her daughter, Cassie Ventura.

Regina said Diddy wanted to retaliate against her daughter and rapper Kid Cudi in testimony that added a deeply personal layer to the growing list of accusations against the Hip-Hop mogul.

Ventura said she had to borrow the money “for my daughter’s safety” to pay off the billionaire mogul to prevent the release of explicit material.

Regina Ventura, testifying as a prosecution witness in Diddy’s ongoing federal case, described a disturbing pattern of abuse and control that mirrored her daughter’s earlier testimony.

Diddy is facing multiple federal charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering and transporting individuals for prostitution. If convicted, he could spend the rest of his life in prison.

Regina Ventura said she first met Diddy in 2006 when her daughter signed to his label, Bad Boy Records. “He was her boss. Then they started dating. They moved to LA,” she said.

The most harrowing moment of Ventura’s testimony came when federal prosecutors asked her to read a message from December 2011.

“She said Sean Combs threatened to release a sex tape and go after her and Mr. Mescudi,” Ventura told the court.

When asked how she reacted, Regina Ventura didn’t hold back. “It made me sick. Sean Combs demanded $20,000, he said to recoup losses due to Mr. Mescudi, from my husband and myself.”

Prosecutors then directed her to a binder containing photographs. “These are the photos I took of my daughter’s bruises, from Sean Combs,” Ventura said.

Her testimony supports what Cassie told the court last week—that Diddy recorded their sexual encounters and used them as “blackmail materials” to keep her compliant throughout their relationship, which lasted from 2006 to 2018.

Ray Vaughn Drags Diddy Into Joey Bada$$ Beef With Latest Diss

Much like Kendrick Lamar and Drake last year, Joey Bada$$ and Ray Vaughn’s beef continues to yield multiple diss tracks. Following’s Joey’s release of “My Town” on Monday night (May 19), the Top Dawg Entertainment rapper is back with another verbal lashing, “Goldeneye.”

Produced by J. White Did It, the track finds Vaughn dragging Diddy into the mix, claiming that the Pro Era alum is a “Diddy-bop.”

He raps, “Them gay lines is out of pocket/I ain’t never been to Diddy house/Serayah gon’ be shocked when all that footage come out/Couldn’t get a Grammy and said, ‘F### it n####, put me on that castin’ couch’/That’s the type of dick-licking s### you should be rappin’ bout.”

The single art is a bold statement in itself and features Pro Era members with targets on their foreheads.


Joey Bada$$ sparked the East Coast-West Coast rap rivalry with “The Ruler’s Back” in January, when he rapped, “Too much West Coast dick lickin’/I’m hearin’ n##### throwin’ rocks, really ain’t sh*t stickin’/’Cause if we talkin’ bar for bar, really it’s slim pickings.”

He also appeared to target Kendrick Lamar with, “I got murals in my city, f### a nomination/This for every time they left me out the conversation.” Vaughn responded with “Crashout Heritage,” while Daylyt fired back with “Hiyu.”

Then on May 13, Red Bull 1520 enlisted Big Sean, Joey Bada$$ and Ab-Soul for its “Spiral Freestyle” series in which Joey dropped lines aimed at Daylyt and Vaughn.

“I shine through the late night,” he rapped. “I ain’t gotta lose no sleep to break Daylyt/Shouldn’t give you the time of day/But f### it shine a light on ’em, I’m a light Ray/If you need the attention, tell Top he gotta pay.”

Vaughn fired back with “Hoe Era,” which included the line, “B#### you washed/You ain’t carrying no torch/You let Ice Spice turn into the King of New York.”

Daylyt is getting in on the action again, too, with “Ayo.” Check it out below.

Is Diddy Buying Supporters For $20 Per Hour?

We’re trying to figure this out, but it seems like people don’t really want to talk about it. We’ve requested a formal response from Team Diddy and haven’t gotten one. So we’re a little slow reporting on this. But last week, people were reportedly being paid $20 an hour to wear “Free Diddy” shirts. Some of them said “Free Puff,” blah blah blah. Regardless, they were there to promote freedom for one Sean “Diddy” Combs, who’s currently on trial for a series of serious offenses. You know the deal. We are trying to get to the bottom of this.

We put in a formal request for comment from his team, but they haven’t replied. So, this is where the rumors start creeping in. First of all, it’s wild. Because from the outside looking in, it seems like they’re taking advantage of impoverished individuals to create the appearance of widespread support for Diddy’s freedom.

I mean, look at this dude.

Secondly, there seems to be a Diddy coin involved. And let’s be real—cryptocurrency is nasty work right now. There are so many scams tied to it that you can’t help but look at the whole thing with a side eye.

Now, I did a little digging, and I’m not quite sure if the embattled Bad Boy is actually behind any of this. It almost feels like someone is using Diddy’s name and slapping it on a sketchy crypto coin. Either way, it’d be nice if someone would clear this up—fast—so we don’t have to keep speculating.

So for now, I’m just going to lay out what we do know and we’ll circle back when more information becomes available. OK..as I finished this, I believe I figured it out. I am officially off the clock but will return tomorrow with my findings.

-illseed out!!

By the way, I love how US Magazine used 50 Cent to get this story out there.

New Orleans Jail Break Inspires Memes & Jokes As Hunt For Inmates Continues

Orleans Parish inmates turned a serious jailbreak into an internet spectacle after surveillance footage of their escape and graffiti taunts ignited a wave of viral memes.

Ten prisoners slipped out of the Orleans Parish Prison in New Orleans just after midnight on Friday (May 16) by tearing a metal toilet-sink unit from the wall and crawling through a hole behind it.

The group then scaled a fence using blankets to avoid barbed wire and sprinted across Interstate 10 into a nearby neighborhood.

Before vanishing, someone left a message above the escape hole that read “To Easy LoL” with an arrow pointing to the exit route.

The escape wasn’t discovered until more than seven hours later during a routine headcount, according to Fox 8 Live. Surveillance video released by the sheriff’s office showed inmates in orange and white uniforms bolting from the facility, triggering a manhunt involving over 200 officers.

As of Tuesday (May 20), four fugitives have been recaptured while six remain on the run. The escapees face a range of charges including murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, domestic abuse, battery and illegal weapons possession.

One of the recaptured inmates, 21-year-old Gary C. Price, is charged with first-degree murder.

Authorities suspect internal assistance played a role in the escape. Three jail employees have been suspended without pay and a maintenance worker has been arrested for allegedly helping the inmates flee.

The jailbreak has taken on a second life online, where clips of the escape and the graffiti message have inspired a flood of memes, reaction videos and TikTok parodies.

Social media users have compared the footage to scenes from “Prison Break” and many mocked the facility’s security failures.

The Washington Post reported that the sheriff’s office is offering up to $20,000 for information leading to each remaining fugitive’s arrest.

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