A California federal jury awarded Clifford “T.I.” Harris and Tameka “Tiny” Harris nearly $71 million in the couple’s lawsuit against MGA Entertainment, the company that makes O.M.G. Dolls. According to Law360, the jury determined seven of the company’s O.M.G. Dolls infringed the trade dress and misappropriated the name, likeness or identity of the OMG Girlz pop group T.I. co-owns.
It’s a massive victory for the couple considering they initially lost the jury trial in May 2023. The jury came to its conclusion following six hours of deliberation over two days and found the infringement was “willful.” They also agreed with the Harrises that the misappropriation was “done with malice, oppression or fraud.” The first sum was $17.8 million but $53 million awarded in punitive damages, the amount exploded.
At one point during the latest trial, which began on September 3, Tip told the jury “anyone with eyes” can see the obvious similarities between the dolls and the group. This time, the jury agreed.
Throughout each trial, MGA argued that its designers were oblivious to the OMG Girlz and never would have copied from the group. The OMG Girlz never released an album but racked up more than 50 million YouTube views and appeared on the Harris’ reality shows from roughly 2010-2015. Meanwhile, the OMG Dolls were released in 2019 and became an instant success, with millions in sales—but it didn’t take long for the Harrises to act.
MGA received a cease-and-desist letter from the Harrises in December 2020. In turn, MGA filed its own lawsuit asking the court to rule that the doll line didn’t copy the OMG Girlz’s name, image or trade dress. The Harrises countersued MGA CEO Isaac Larian, alleging infringement of trade dress and misappropriation of name or likeness, among other claims.
T.I. nor Tiny have commented publicly on their massive victory. AllHipHop reached out for a statement but didn’t hear back as of publication time.
Former Dallas Cowboys franchise player Michael Irvin has reacted to team owner Jerry Jones’ bizarre comments during Jamie Foxx’s recent livestream on It Is What It Is with Cam’ron and Ma$e.
In case you missed it, Jones’ loose lips were was caught up blabbering on about a player’s “eight-and-a-half inch d##k” during an Instagram Live Foxx shared while spending time with the NFL owner. Though Foxx abruptly ended the live mere moments after Jones made the comment, a clip of the stream has since made it to multiple social media platforms and gone viral. As a result, Cam’ron and Ma$e sat down with former NFL player and Cowboys legend Michael Irvin to address the eyebrow-raising comments made by Jones.
Though it’s clear Jones appeared to have made the remarks about the size of his players’ genitals unabashedly, causing shockwaves across social media, Irvin seemed on the fence about the situation. However, Irvin’s apprehensiveness didn’t stop Cam’ron from bringing it up and sparking a lively and humorous exchange on the show. In fact, the Dipset rapper took things further and opted to troll Irvin in his initial address of the situation, posing a wild rhetorical question to the former star wide receiver.
“Super duper pause, super duper pause,” Cam’ron started off in regards to Jones’ comments. “Do y’all got to get your s##t measured before y’all join the Cowboys? What the f##k, what part of the game is that,” he said.
Ma$e interjected, adding, “Jerry running the ‘Django’ is,” referencing Foxx’s staring role in the film of the same name chronicling a slave’s uprising against a plantation owner.
Michael Irvin, visibly taken aback, was quick to question the legitimacy of the comments.
“Crazy thing I got to ask y’all is do we know this to true, and I did see that,” Michael Irvin said in part. “Do you know that to be true? That’s AI. It must be AI generating.”
Irvin continued, further suggesting that the viral clip could be a product of artificial intelligence rather than an actual statement from Jones, based on the climate of misinformation being spread on social media.
“You don’t even know what’s real nowadays,” he said.
Cam’ron continued to press the issue, teasing that Irvin must be inebriated based on his response to the scandal.
“Mike, you off the 151 [Rum] this morning,” Killa Cam said while laughing. “You lit my n###a. Don Julio Irving.”
As the trio continued the discussion, the convo shifted to Cam’ron and Ma$e questioning Irving whether or not he had ever been part of a locker room discussion like the one Jones was accused of sparking. Irvin, however, quickly shut down any insinuation that he’d ever engaged in conversations about another man’s size and dragged disgraced Bad Boy music mogul Diddy in the process.
“I have never, ever had any conversation about another man’s size in no manner,” Irving said. “In no way, and I don’t even know if we should be touching it with all this Diddy time around.”
The exchange remained lighthearted as Irvin did his best to sidestep the awkwardness of the topic, ultimately suggesting they move on from the subject entirely.
“Leave it alone,” he said. “Leave it alone, baby.”
Jerry Jones has long been a polarizing figure, with a history of making controversial remarks and being embroiled in scandals. In recent years, he has been criticized for his handling of player protests during the national anthem and has been linked to lawsuits involving sexual harassment. When an old photo of Jerry Jones surfaced, showing him among a crowd of white students blocking Black classmates from entering an Arkansas high school during the civil rights era, the response from Black celebrities was mixed. While many were critical of Jones’ presence in such a significant historical moment, others came to his defense. Prominent figures like Stephen A. Smith and Jay-Z publicly supported Jones, emphasizing his track record of providing opportunities to Black athletes and fostering diversity within the Dallas Cowboys organization. Stephen A. Smith, in particular, argued that holding Jones accountable for an incident from his teenage years without considering his actions since was unfair.
Sean “Diddy” Combs will remain in the infamous Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn as he awaits trial for sex trafficking and racketeering. According to court documents obtained by AllHipHop, Diddy’s attorney ditched efforts to get him transferred from the MDC jail to Essex County on Monday (September 23).
“Following the September 18, 2024 court appearance, the court ordered a status update from counsel concerning any request related to the location of Mr. Combs’ detention,” his lawyer Marc Agnifilo wrote. “At this point, there is no request from counsel that the court take any action.”
Diddy was placed in a jail described as “hell on earth” and an “ongoing tragedy.” His attorney suggested a move to Essex County at his bail hearing.
Last week, Diddy was placed on suicide watch at the MDC jail. His lawyer said the disgraced mogul was not suicidal, calling it a routine procedure for high-profile inmates.
Authorities arrested Diddy for sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy and transportation to engage in prostitution on September 16. He pleaded not guilty to the charges. Two judges denied him bail.
“For decades, Sean Combs … abused, threatened and coerced women and others around him to fulfill his sexual desires, protect his reputation and conceal his conduct,” Diddy’s indictment read. “To do so, Combs relied on the employees, resources and influence of the multi-faceted business empire that he led and controlled—creating a criminal enterprise whose members and associates engaged in and attempted to engage in, among other crimes, sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery and obstruction of justice.”
Diddy was indicted after facing multiple lawsuits accusing him of sexual assault and other crimes. His ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura was the first victim to sue him in November 2023.
The Bad Boy Records founder faces up to life in prison if convicted. Diddy’s sex trafficking charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years behind bars.
Cornelius Smith, one of the three men charged with Young Dolph’s 2021 murder, confessed to the shooting at his co-defendant Justin Johnson’s trial on Monday (September 23). Smith testified against Johnson, the lone man on trial in the case.
Smith identified himself and Johnson as the two gunmen seen in surveillance footage of the murder. Smith said they shot Young Dolph to collect a $100,000 hit put out by Yo Gotti’s late brother Big Jook. Johnson and Smith’s co-defendant Hernandez Govan informed them about the price on Young Dolph’s head.
“We knew they had a hit on Dolph’s head or whatever,” Smith said. “Big Jook had a hit on Dolph’s head or whatnot. [Govan] had told me about it.”
Smith used to buy drugs from Govan. Smith knew Johnson for “a few months” before they allegedly became murder accomplices.
According to Smith, Young Dolph’s murder was in the works for weeks. Johnson and Smith agreed to each give Govan $10,000. The shooters would take home $40,000 apiece.
“We had a big talk about it,” Smith said.
Johnson and Smith knew Young Dolph was in Memphis for a turkey drive. They recognized Dolph’s car and tailed him on November 17, 2021.
Young Dolph and his brother stopped at a bakery. Johnson and Smith pulled up in the same parking lot. Smith said he was the first man out of the car and quickly started shooting.
“I wasn’t feeling nothing at the time,” Smith said. “I was just trying to get some money … I can’t tell you how many times I shot, aiming for Dolph. I shot through the glass … I saw him standing by the window. I just got out [of the car] and started shooting.”
Johnson, who drove the vehicle, hopped out and joined in the gunfire. He and Smith fled the scene as Young Dolph’s brother fire shots at them.
Smith recalled Johnson FaceTiming Big Jook to let the CMG executive know Young Dolph was dead. Govan told the gunmen to ditch their getaway vehicle. Govan is expected to testify in Johnson’s trial.
Big Jook allegedly told the shooters it was “too hot” to give them the $100,000 reward. Smith revealed he only received $800 for the high-profile murder.
As Diddy’s downfall continues to captivate the entertainment business, Ice Cube wanted to make one thing perfectly clear: he’s never been to a Diddy party. During a recent concert, the gangsta rap pioneer was performing alongside fellow West Coast legend W.C. when he addressed the Bad Boy Records founder’s plight and assured his audience Diddy’s “freak-offs” were never on his itinerary.
“Almost 40 years of rocking the mic, and I’mma tell you right now; me and WC ain’t never been to a Diddy party m###########,” Cube told the Yaamava’ Theater in Highland, California on Sunday (September 22), to which someone in the crowd shouted, “Thank God!” Cube added, “You ain’t gotta worry about us on them muthafuckin tapes.”
Diddy was indicted on September 12 on three charges: racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking of children by force, fraud or coercion and transporting for prostitution. He pleaded not guilty.
The 14-page indictment reads in part, “For decades, Sean Combs…abused, threatened & coerced women & others around him to fulfill his sexual desires, protect his reputation & conceal his conduct. To do so, Combs relied on the employees, resources & the influence of his multi-faceted business empire. During raids of his residences in Miami and Los Angeles, authorities seized firearms and ammunition, including three AR-15s with defaced serial numbers, as well as a drum magazine.”
The indictment also mentions physical abuse several times, saying Diddy “engaged in a persistent and pervasive pattern of abuse toward women and other individuals. This abuse was, at times, verbal, emotional, physical and sexual.”
Diddy was taken into custody at a posh Manhattan hotel on September 16. As Diddy’s empire crumbles, he remains at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn after a judge denied bail. Meanwhile, photos of celebrities who partook in Diddy’s parties are beginning to surface. Ex Jennifer Lopez, Leonardo DiCaprio and actress Sarah Jessica Parker are just a few of the famous faces seen in the photos.
But one thing is certain—Ice Cube won’t be in any of them. Check out the clip above.
Canadian prosecutors refused to proceed with a murder trial against Top 5, a Toronto rapper with alleged ties to Drake. The case fell apart once a judge blocked the prosecution from using key evidence from Top 5’s social media accounts.
“It became clear crucial evidence has been excluded,” prosecutor Sue Adams said, per the Toronto Star.
Top 5, whose real name is Hassan Ali, was facing trial for the 2021 murder of accounting student Hashim Hashi. Top 5 walked free from court on Monday (September 23).
“I feel like Shohei Ohtani!” he told reporters. “I feel like a baseball player, a superstar.”
Last week, Judge Andras Schreck determined social media-related evidence in the case was too prejudicial. The judge said the evidence “portrays Mr. Ali as a violent gang member with little regard for human life and who revels in the senseless killing of others. The risk that a jury will misuse this evidence and convict Mr. Ali because of his disposition is significant.”
Top 5’s social media posts showed him threatening and celebrating the deaths of gang members in the area where Hashi was killed. Prosecutors claimed Hashi was an innocent bystander shot in a feud between Top 5’s Go Getem Gang and Falstaff Marke Gang.
Hashi was shot and killed on the Falstaff Marke Gang’s turf. Prosecutors accused Top 5 and unidentified suspects of looking for someone to kill in the area. Top 5 was allegedly in the backseat of a car with the unknown shooter and driver.
Top 5 denied any gang ties. He insisted GGG was his record label, not a gang.
“I think the evidence against Hassan was entirely circumstantial,” his attorney Gary Grill said. “The case against him was not strong at all.”
Top 5 was previously accused of being Drake’s “shooter.” A defense attorney implicated Top 5 and Drake in the XXXTentacion murder case.
Three men with no connections to Top 5 and Drake were sentenced to life in prison for XXXTentacion’s murder. A fourth defendant received a reduced sentence thanks to a plea deal.
SKG, born Helecia Choyce, has made a notable entrance into the spoken word genre with her new EP, Deep Rooted. Following the success of her single “Discuss of a Black Man,” which climbed the iTunes charts in both the US and the UK, rapper SKG has released a powerful follow-up single, “We Are at War.” This new track highlights social issues and reflects her commitment to addressing current global concerns through her music.
Deep Rooted, produced by the legendary Sclass, takes listeners on an emotional journey with tracks such as “Let Me Vent,” “You Can Achieve It,” and “Therapeutic Love Session.” Each piece is crafted to evoke deep reflection and emotional engagement.
This album represents SKG’s debut entry into Grammy consideration, marking a significant step in her career. With a focus on creating meaningful change through her spoken word artistry, SKG is just getting started.
The album Deep Rooted is available now on all streaming platforms. Click the link below to listen and experience SKG’s impactful new work.
Known for his eclectic sound and collaborations with popular artists such as Drake, Juice WRLD, and XXXTENTACION, Trippie Redd has continued to push boundaries in the creative world by propelling his artistry into the fashion industry. This latest collection with boohooMAN captures a grungier, darker aesthetic, within which avant-garde silhouettes and modular design elements have been incorporated.
Trippie’s vision with this gothic, edgy collection was to create interchangeable pieces that feature modular zip-off sleeves and legs that allow for different looks. With a strong emphasis on black and red tones that are enhanced by dark themes such as voodoo and the dark arts, the collection marks a shift from the previous bold graphics of boohooMAN and Trippie Redd’s previous collaboration, and focuses on a moodier, mysterious atmosphere that lovers of dark clothing will surely enjoy.
Inspired by a darker side
Inspired by the grunge aesthetics that were so popular in the 90s, the collaboration between the fashion brand and musician also nods to Y2K novelty through its playful elements such as padded horns and rabbit ears. Dominated by a black, gray, deep red, and burgundy color palette, the collection provides a stark contrast to the more vibrant tones of Trippie’s earlier work with boohooMAN. The collaboration comes at a time when the grunge aesthetic is starting to return to the fashion industry, especially in high fashion.
Trippie expressed his excitement about the collection by noting that it more closely aligns with his evolving style. His influence is evident throughout the collection, especially in the exaggerated silhouettes and the integration of darker themes.
Samir Kamani, of boohooMAN, shared, “At boohooMAN, we are constantly seeking to collaborate with artists who embody a unique sense of style and creativity. Trippie Redd is a perfect example of this synergy. His ability to seamlessly blend music and fashion resonates with our audience, making this partnership a powerful reflection of our commitment to staying ahead of the curve in streetwear.”
A Trip Into Accessible Fashion
The collaboration between boohooMAN and Trippie Redd consists of 98 different pieces, which will be available in sizes XS to XXL to ensure that fans of Trippie’s style will have access to a wide variety of options.
The brand is also working to be accessible to everyone, and has price points in their collection that range from $6 to $80. Whether you’re looking for tank tops, bomber jackets, faux leather cargo trousers, or even ponchos and hats with horns on them, the collaboration between boohooMAN and Trippie Redd has something that can appeal to everyone who loves the goth, alternative, and unique style that was inspired by the grunge movement of the 90s.
Whether you’re an old fan of Trippie Redd’s music or are just now discovering his work, you’ll find that his collaboration with boohooMAN showcases his eclectic style not just in fashion but in the music industry as well.
You can browse and purchase Trippie Redd’s newest collaboration on the boohooMAN website now.
Tennessee prosecutors began the trial against Young Dolph’s alleged killer Justin Johnson with a bombshell accusation on Monday (September 23). Shelby County Deputy District Attorney Paul Hagerman claimed Yo Gotti’s late brother Anthony “Big Jook” Mims put on a $100,000 hit on Young Dolph.
Young Dolph was a longtime rival of Yo Gotti. Big Jook, who was fatally shot in January, was an executive at Yo Gotti’s label CMG.
“[Big Jook] put out a hit,” Hagerman told the jury. “A hit: $100,000 to whoever kills Dolph. He has met with Justin. He has met with Cornelius [Smith]. And they think they’re ready to do it. They’re definitely willing to do it. For Cornelius, it would be $50,000, I guess, that he could waste away on Percocet and ecstasy. For Justin, it’s $50,000 but also a chance to make it big with CMG. To become the next famous Memphis rapper.”
Young Dolph was shot and killed at a Memphis bakery in November 2021. Johnson and Smith were the alleged gunmen.
Johnson, Smith and alleged mastermind Hernandez Govan were charged with first-degree murder for Young Dolph’s shooting death. Johnson is the only defendant on trial. Smith and Govan are expected to testify against Johnson in the case.
“They’re not professional hitman,” Hagerman said of Johnson and Smith. “Not even monsters. This is just business for these two. Money for Cornelius. Money and rap fame for Justin Johnson. They did the best they could really. Stolen car. Better to use a stolen car that can’t be traced back to them … They were wearing gloves. Afterwards, the guns get disappeared. The car gets ditched in a neighborhood and wiped down and moved. Their plan is to go their separate ways and just disappear into Memphis. They did the best they could.”
Johnson’s attorney Luke Evans attacked Govan and Smith’s credibility in the trial’s opening statements. Evans described Govan as someone trying to leech off Johnson, who was looking to sign a deal with CMG. Govan allegedly wanted a cut of Johnson’s earnings for bringing the rapper to CMG’s attention. Evans suggested Govan became disgruntled after meeting with Johnson and Big Jook in September 2021.
“Mr. Johnson sits before you innocent and he’ll remain that way,” Evans declared. “Because at the conclusion of this case, once you’ve viewed all the evidence and heard all the testimony, you will not be convinced beyond a reasonable doubt that he did this. Because he didn’t.”
Johnson’s brother Jermarcus, the fourth suspect in the Young Dolph murder case, pleaded guilty to three counts of accessory after the fact. He awaits sentencing.
In the wake of Diddy’s recent arrest, Al. B Sure has come forward with a request. On Monday (September 23), the veteran singer issued a series of three Instagram posts, demanding an investigation into, what he calls, her murder. As he explained, his posts were triggered by a new book allegedly authored by Porter prior to her death, which he believes was doctored into “calculated fiction.” (The Amazon link to the book, Kim’s Lost Words: A Journey for Justice from the Other Side, has since been removed.)
“For over a decade and a half, I’ve been posting about, and tagging random law enforcement agencies in hopes to protect loved ones, avoid deaths & tragedies that could have all been avoided,” he began. “Despite this, I have been ignored, ridiculed and medically silenced to cover up these crimes you’re all now aware of by a very aggressive #PR Team and costly campaign to silence and physically harm me from exposing.
“It only aimed to prevent me from further sharing publicly the facts and insights @LadyKP shared with me during our frequent and intimate conversations in her selfless attempts to save my life by sharing frequent plans to do harm, and possibly by ending my life.”
He continued, “I am writing this post to formally request an investigation into an entire group of individuals who worked at or around the residence of Ms. Kimberly Porter including the publicists who assisted drafting this. It has come to my attention that these persons were also instructed to steal her computer and mobile devices, which contained her ‘original book notes.’ Original notes are distinct from the fabricated b####### and offensive pages circulated via Amazon which depict graphic sexual acts involving me that NEVER took place and were edited and added after Ms. Porter’s tragic murder.”
Al B. Sure also claimed he was forced to call what he endured in 2022 a “medical crisis” for “legal reasons.”
In a follow-up post, Al B. Sure asserted Kim Porter’s missing electronic devices will add more legitimacy to the case.
“Ms. Porter’s missing devices, allegedly already in evidence unquestionably contain the critical evidence that have been concealed,” he continued. “I’m convinced that evidence corroborates closely with details outlined in the recently released public indictment document.”
Sure also chided those possibly involved in hiding what he said is the truth solely because Diddy was paying them.
“It is truly disheartening to think that those she considered close friends, and who were financially compensated by her perpetrator(s) may have conspired with the perpetrator to obscure the truth and tarnish her name, my name and her unfinished book notes with these ridiculous and unfounded narratives,” he added. “The absence of Ms. Porter leaves a void, depriving her of the opportunity to address these inaccuracies personally and to share her own factual memoirs detailing the brutal terror and madness she endured.”
In Al B. Sure’s third and final post regarding the matter, he suggested Porter was silenced because she had the power to do what Cassie Ventura did—blow the whistle. Ventura’s bombshell lawsuit, which she filed in November 2023, proved to be the catalyst that would ultimately lead to Diddy’s arrest.
“It is evident that her potential to expose the realities of her personal abuses, being drugged, the #SexTrafficking and #HumanTrafficking she was privy to, akin to the brave actions of Mrs. Cassie Ventura, posed a threat to those profiting from such heinous activities,” he wrote. “In a nutshell, Kimberly was allegedly taken from us because she was set on course to accomplish what Mrs. Cassie Ventura did by ignited the Bon Fire which brings us here today with the avalanche that has brought Satin to their chambers.”
Al B. Sure and the late Kim Porter were romantically involved in the late ’80s and early ’90s. They dated for several years and had a son together, Quincy Brown, born in 1991. Though the two eventually split, they maintained a close co-parenting relationship. After their split, Porter began a long-term relationship with Diddy with whom she had three more children. Despite her relationship with Diddy, Al B. Sure remained involved in Quincy’s life and maintained his friendship with Porter.
After her death in 2018, Al B. Sure was adamant she didn’t die from lumbar pneumonia as reported by the coroner—he insisted she was murdered. He also believes he was a victim of Diddy’s wrath in 2022, when he fell into a coma for two months. In fact, shortly after Diddy’s L.A. and Miami homes were raided by Homeland Security in March, Al B. Sure suggested Diddy was behind his medical troubles.
“We’re going to produced the Al. B Sure story,” he said at the time. “So hold on to your britches ’cause you’ll really understand how I ended up in a coma. You’re really going to need to call Homeland Security.”
Diddy has been charged with racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking children by force, fraud or coercion and transporting for prostitution. He pleaded not guilty but was denied bail and is currently locked up at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn.
Smoke Out Queen, also known as Smoke Queen, is an American rapper, songwriter, and inventor who has carved a distinctive niche in the music industry. Hailing from Mobile, Alabama, and currently residing in Atlanta, Georgia, she first entered the music scene in the 2000s through a collaboration with The Last Mr. Bigg on the track “Trial Time.” This collaboration set the stage for her burgeoning career.
In 2011, Smoke Queen made a significant impact with the release of her debut album, “Bringing It.” The album’s lead single, which was initially released in 1999, helped solidify her presence in the music world and was distributed by The Orchard. Notably, she became the first female artist to establish her own label, Smoke Queen Productions, marking a pioneering move towards independence in the music industry.
As of 2024, Smoke Queen has continued to evolve and grow her fanbase. Her latest album, “Smoke Till I Die,” also distributed by The Orchard and published with BMI, underscores her enduring influence and appeal. With a strong following in the Southern United States and an expanding audience both nationally and internationally, Smoke Queen remains a formidable force in the rap genre. Her independent spirit and innovative contributions continue to inspire a new generation of artists and fans alike.
Macklemore might have taken his political causes a little too far during a recent Seattle concert at Seward Park Amphitheater.
Dubbed the “Palestine Will Live Forever Festival,” the event was to raise funds for several organizations, including the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), an independent 501c3 nonprofit organization that provides support for the humanitarian work of the United Nations Agency for Palestine Refugees. At one point during the show, he encouraged the crowd to join him in a “F### America” chant.
“Straight up, say it,” he said. “I’m not gonna stop you. I’m not gonna stop you. Yeah, F### America!”
Anti-Semitic rapper Macklemore just got on stage in Seattle and said “f### America” to thunderous applause. pic.twitter.com/NmiZv83moc
The backlash was swift and intense. Scores of people started flooding the comment section of the video with remarks such as, “He’s been antisemitic for a long time. Tik Tok has helped the younger generation believe that America is bad. It’s a brainwashing of a generation. If he hates it so much here then why doesn’t he leave? No one is stopping him. He just likes the attention.”
Another person wrote, “He’s happy to receive American dollars though. Hypocrite,” while another said, “Ok then give-up even one of your American privileges, all the $$$ you’ve made in this capitalist country – give it back to the Americans that supported you, and get the **** out of America! Ungrateful celebrities that spit in the face of the country that made them a celebrity are the worst pieces of garbage. Just go! Stop lecturing the rest of us.”
Macklemore released “Hinds Hall” in May and pledged all proceeds to the UNRWA. The song was inspired by the work of student protesters at Columbia University, who occupied the campus’s Hamilton Hall and changed its name to “Hind’s Hall.” He followed up with “Hinds Hall 2” last week in which he calls out Vice President Kamala Harris directly.
“Hey Kamala, I don’t know if you’re listening/But stop sending money and weapons or you ain’t winning Michigan,” he raps in the third verse. “We uncommitted, and hell no we ain’t switching positions/Because the whole world turned Palestinian/I see them murdered children in Gaza and I see my babies/Life being stripped from the bombs we’re making.”
Macklemore has been increasingly vocal about the ongoing conflict. Last month, he canceled a concert in Dubai over the United Arab Emirates’ role “in the ongoing genocide and humanitarian crisis” in Sudan. He has yet to address the pushback he’s receiving for his comments at the Seattle show.
Ice-T and Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur talk shop about him being one of the first multihyphenates in Hip-Hop and all that comes out of taking risks.
The pioneer that is known as Ice-T and his legendary career continue to vibrate into cultural impact for many that came after him. The New Jersey-born, Los Angeles-raised icon reflects on his unexpected journey from a short-term gig on Law & Order: SVU to becoming the longest-running actor in a continuous role on television. He shares powerful insights on the evolution of Hip-Hop and how the genre’s shifts coincided with his transition into acting.
Getting into other lanes was not the norm in those days, the early 1990s, but he helped pave the way with others like Will Smith, Queen Latifah and former foe LL Cool J. Ice-T discusses the changing gatekeepers of the entertainment industry, crediting this shift for helping icons like himself and Snoop Dogg achieve mainstream success. He highlights the role of youth in driving social change through music and reaffirms his belief that Hip-Hop has no age limit.
That does not stop him from pushing the line in other genres. The conversation takes a deep dive into Ice-T’s rock band, Body Count, celebrating its 30-year legacy and the release of their upcoming album, Merciless. He explores how Body Count provides an outlet for themes that don’t fit within today’s Hip-Hop landscape. Ice-T also tackles political issues, criticizing the U.S. two-party system and advocating for independent thinking.
Wrapping up, Ice-T shares his thoughts on the upcoming election, his disdain for Donald Trump, and the importance of local government. He reflects on his career, the enduring power of Hip-Hop, and his drive to continue pushing boundaries creatively.
Usher addressed rumors about his X account wipe, asserting, “Account got hacked and damn y’all ran with it!”
Speculation arose when the “My Boo” singer’s history on X (formerly Twitter) vanished shortly after Sean “Diddy” Combs, a close friend and mentor, was arrested on sex trafficking charges.
By Sunday, all tweets, media, and replies from Usher’s account had been erased.
This left fans bewildered, especially as the R&B; icon is currently on his highly awaited Past, Present, Future tour.
The sudden disappearance fueled suspicions linked to Usher’s relationship with Combs.
Although Usher faces no allegations, both he and rapper Ne-Yo were mentioned as witnesses to Combs’ reported physical abuse of Cassie Ventura in Dawn Richard’s lawsuit against the Hip-Hop mogul.
As a teenager, Usher lived with Combs in New York City in the 1990s to gain insights into the music industry.
In a 2004 Rolling Stone interview, he recollected, “There were always girls around. You’d open a door and see somebody doing it, or several people in a room having an orgy. You never knew what was going to happen,” illustrating the chaotic environment.
The incident brings a stark contrast to Usher’s current phase, focusing on a tour spanning his musical journey.
Fans were initially puzzled by the erasure during this pivotal time, leading to varied interpretations until Usher clarified the hacking.
Meanwhile, Combs’ arrest continues to cast a long shadow, prompting greater scrutiny of those in his inner circle.
The City of New York, represented by the NYC Department of Social Services (NYCDSS), has requested a pre-motion conference and stay of the auction sale of Damon Dash’s stock interest in Roc-A-Fella Records due to comments made by JAY-Z.
The request, submitted to United States Magistrate Judge Robert W. Lehrburger, comes amid allegations that JAY-Z has made public statements designed to devalue the stock and deter potential bidders.
The City argues that JAY-Z’s claims about his right to terminate RAF’s copyright for his album Reasonable Doubt are false and have significantly impacted the auction’s potential to generate sufficient funds.
According to Gerald E. Singleton, the attorney representing the City, JAY-Z has publicly stated that the rights to Reasonable Doubt will revert to him in 2031, a claim that Singleton asserts is untrue.
“JAY-Z has issued widely publicized statements warning potential bidders that copyright ownership will revert back to him in 2031,” Singleton wrote in the letter to Judge Lehrburger. “Those statements are false and extremely damaging to the City’s interests in ensuring that the auction will generate sufficient funds to satisfy all existing child support arrearages and secure future child support payments.”
The City contends that JAY-a has no termination right under the Copyright Act because Reasonable Doubt is considered a “work made for hire.”
The agreement between JAY-Z and Roc-A-Fella, signed in 1995, explicitly states that all masters recorded under the contract are deemed “works made for hire,” granting RAF ownership of the copyright until 2098.
In addition to JAY-Z’s statements, lawyers for Roc-A-Fella have been accused of refusing to provide critical royalty information in response to a subpoena. The information is deemed essential for potential bidders to accurately value the stock.
The City has indicated that it will likely file motions for turnover orders against Roc-A-Fella and its controlled affiliates to compel the release of this information.
“The auction should be conducted in a manner that will bring the highest price for the benefit of affected judgment creditors,” Singleton emphasized, citing previous court rulings that public auction sales should be conducted in an environment calculated to bring the highest possible price.
The City is seeking a stay of the auction until the court can rule on whether JAY-Z possesses a right to terminate RAF’s copyright and whether discovery concerning the valuation of such copyright rights should be allowed.
The City also requests an order compelling Roc-A-Fella to provide the necessary royalty information and to produce a knowledgeable person for deposition.
Damon Dash recently ripped JAY-Z in an Instagram post.
Damon Dash is trying to auction his 33.3 percent stake in Roc-A-Fella Records to satisfy an $823,000 debt after losing a legal battle with film producer Josh Webber over the film “Dear Frank.”
A New York court ordered the sale to cover the debt, which stems from Dash’s alleged attempt to sell the film under a different title after being removed as director because of his on-set antics.
The auction was originally set for August 29 and was supposed to start at $1.2 million, with a $240,000 deposit required.
Because Damon Dash owes money to multiple parties, Lehbruger granted a request to extend the timeline. Dash is also offering an original Roc-A-Fella chain as an incentive for bids over $10 million. The buyer will have limited decision-making power, as major decisions require a majority vote.
If the auction surpasses $10 million, the rest of the money earned would go to New York State to settle Damon Dash’s $8 million tax bill and other debts.
A former member of Diddy’sMaking the Band group Da Band, Freddy P, recently sat down with The Art of Dialogue, where he got brutally honest about what he witnessed being around the Bad Boy Records founder. Diddy has been under heavy scrutiny since ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura sued him for sexual and physical assault in November 2023. As more and more people came forward with Diddy horror stories, federal investigators swooped in, culminating with his arrest on September 16.
“He’s literally assaulting men,” Freddy P says in the clip “It may be common nowadays, but for a man to walk up and slap your ass and say ‘let me get your number’ or ‘come to my hotel room,’ that s### is not normal and I never heard no s### like that in my lifetime for no man to approach you like that. And he’s done it several times. I could imagine that Puffy approaches these guys going through financial situations. When things ain’t hot no more, you fall back on people like him. He preys on you.”
Freddy P also believes because Diddy has provided so much for so many people that they felt obligated to remain silent: “It’s a lot of rappers out here that have secrets because they fell into these situations with Puffy — and I know this personally.”
Freddy P also explained why he ultimately walked away from Da Band and distanced himself from Diddy altogether.
“One day, I was waking up, and I was in a mood,” he continues. “I’m in the studio, I’m snapping or whatever. I didn’t even want to be f##### with. You know when you around a bunch of goofies and you a street n####, sometimes you don’t want to be around the nerds. So I’m in that b####; I’m just frustrated with a lot of s### going on.
“Anyway, we get into a situation. We in front of everybody, n#### like, ‘Man, what you think you bout it or something?’ He was like, ‘N####, I’ll buy every house on your block, shut every light off in that b####, and every time you come out that b#### you’ll get popped.’ When he tell you some s### like that, you go to picture him purchasing every house, you going to picture every light going off, and that s### silenced me.”
Diddy was indicted by a grand jury on September 12. He’s pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy and transportation to engage in prostitution in New York. If convicted, he faces up to life in prison.
Diddy’s name has been splattered all over the news in the wake of his September 16 arrest. Par for the course, social media has exploded with opinions, some of which involve former child actor Orlando Brown.
The That’s So Raven star has made several wild claims about various celebrities over the years—including Diddy—with most people dismissing him as “crazy.” But after the 14-page indictment against Diddy was unsealed, it forced many people to reevaluate their sentiments on Brown.
On Saturday (September 21), an old interview clip with Brown started making the rounds. In the clip, he’s asked about his opinion on the Bad Boy Records founder.
“Gotta say no to Diddy,” he said at the time. “If there’s new booty in the building, you know he’s gonna get it. You can take the b####, but he wants you.”
People immediately commented things like, “This so crazy, because he been tellin us! But people called him crazy!” and “Damn….Do we owe Orlando Brown an apology? We see that they go “crazy” but we never ask why.” Another said, “This is real, just as real as what Orlando Brown was saying. Only difference is ppl played with Orlandos credibility due to his drug use and theatrics but I don’t think his drug usage would prevent him w/ spreading those truths. Articulation is key element. Truth is there though.”
Damn….Do we owe Orlando Brown an apology? We see that they go “crazy” but we never ask why 💀 pic.twitter.com/gPjFjXDMuN
Diddy’s “freakoffs” are integral to his legal woes. In 2002, he appeared on Late Night with Conan O’Brien and explained in detail how he prepares for them.
“We need alcohols,” he said. “Alcohols. Plurals. Blends. You need some water. I don’t know if guys have noticed this, but a lot of ladies drink water at parties. If you don’t have what they need, they’re gonna leave. Gotta keep ’em there. You need locks on the doors.”
O’Brien replied, surprised, “This is sounding kind of dangerous now.” But Diddy continued, “It’s a little kinky, but rock with me. Check it out. You need a lot of heat. Don’t have no air conditioning. Heat affects the alcohol and it also affects like…everybody gets a little more comfortable and builds up a nice little sweat.”
O’Brien then told him that sounded “disgusting,” to which Diddy said, “It depends on how you look at it.”
Brown has made claims about Nick Cannon, too. In 202o, he alleged Cannon performed oral sex on him. The Masked Singer host promptly addressed Brown in a lengthy Instagram post.
“When I first saw this I thought it was f###### hilarious!!!!” Cannon wrote. “But then after putting a little cognitive effort and analytical thought to the situation, I figured what a great opportunity for a ‘teachable moment!’ First off let me say I am praying for the young brother Orlando even though I don’t really know him personally, I have always loved and enjoyed his talent and have been a fan of his past work. He was f###### brilliant in Major Payne, and had us all laughing on ‘Thats So Raven.’
“But this is another crucial example of when we allow our young artists to be prematurely exposed by this demonic business and left out to fend for themselves. We need better support systems for our youth and take care of our own. I watched various of this young brothers videos and all I see is a cry out for help.”
Brown has struggled with mental health and substance abuses issues for years. In a 2018 interview with Dr. Phil, he was offered treatment but refused it. He’s also been arrested at least five times for charges ranging from possession of a controlled substance to domestic battery. Whether Brown is telling the truth or not about Diddy is up for debate, but with recent developments, it’s sounding much more plausible.
OK, Janet Jackson. What is going on!? We’ve supported you for years, even after the Super Bowl controversy when you claimed the wardrobe malfunction was an accident and blamed Justin Timberlake.
Now, on the eve of having the first Black female president, you decide to make an unfounded claim about Kamala Harris’s father being white. It’s clear just by looking at Kamala that she’s not white, and at almost 60 years old, you should know better. But it gets worse.
Janet apparently issued an apology through someone claiming to be her manager, but this person wasn’t even authorized to speak for her. It sounded off and unconvincing like they were just trying to clean up a mess. To make matters worse, this so-called manager – Mo Elmasri – isn’t even a real manager—he’s a filmmaker, according to Variety. He might have meant well, but he needs to stop.
And so does Janet. Stop giving interviews, and stop making political comments as this isn’t your strong suit. Focus on your shows and tours, which are great. You’ve done an amazing job proving that life goes on in the pop world despite the ups and downs. But if you keep showing how uninformed you are, it’s going to hurt your legacy.
Ashanti has shared a pair of touching memories in her recent tribute post to late Hip-Hop artists Fatman Scoop and Rich Homie Quan.
On Thursday (September 19), Ashanti utilized her Instagram Story to post archive footage of both Scoop and Quan, along with heartfelt messages regarding her experience working with the two deceased artists. In the first post, she shared, Ashanti remarked on the opportunity she got to work with Quan in the studio, which she described as a pleasure while also praising the Atlanta rapper’s immense talent.
“I had the pleasure of working with this young legend,” Ashanti wrote. “I was so impressed with how incredibly talented he was his melodies are crazy and he was super fast in the studio. RIP Rich Homie Quan, sending love, prayers and peace to the family.”
In a follow-up post, Ashanti shared a video of herself and Scoop goofing off in the airport during their tour in Australia in 2022 — which featured artist such as Akon, Jay Sean, Dru Hill, and Shaggy. In the caption she wrote on the video, Ashanti recalled how comfortable Scoop made her feel during her first interview with him, along with the “energy” he brought to his collaborations.
“I remember my very first radio interview with Scoop as a new artist,” she wrote. “He was always welcoming hilarious and super down to earth. He brought the biggest energy to every record. He was on making it a hit. We had a blast on this run in Australia. Rest in peace to the iconic ‘Fat Man Scoop’, sending love, peace, and blessings to the family.”
Unfortunately, both Scoop and Quan passed away abruptly earlier this month. Scoop passed away after collapsing at a Connecticut concert on the evening of August 30, while Quan was discovered deceased in his home by his longtime girlfriend days later on September 5. Overall, the Black music community has been forced to carry a heavy heart throughout the duration of this month following the deaths of iconic vocalists Frankie Beverly and Tito Jackson, as well.
Check out the post above to see Ashanti’s tributes to Scoop and Quan.
