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SZA Stops Touring To “Get Her Life Together”

SZA announced she’s stepping back from live performances for the foreseeable future, sharing the news with her fans on Twitter (X).

The “Good Days” artist, whose real name is Solána Rowe, revealed she won’t be taking on any concerts “for a while” in a candid post.

“Yesterday was my last show for a while,” she wrote. “Finally bout to get my life together thank u God (sic).”

SZA’s announcement comes on the heels of her weekend performance at the Osheaga festival in Montreal, Canada.

The summer has seen the singer-songwriter command stages across the U.S. and Europe, culminating in a headline spot at Glastonbury in June.

Yet amid SZA’s bustling tour schedule, she’s decided to hit pause. She didn’t indicate whether her time away from the stage will be spent crafting new music.

Previously, SZA discussed her creative journey and her choice to write about the concealed aspects of her life. Reflecting on her songwriting process, the 34-year-old shared insights with Variety in December.

“There’s mad aspects to my life,” the 34-year-old explained to Variety in December 2023. “But people don’t really know that, because all I sing about are the hidden aspects that I think are more interesting. Honestly, I could write about jet-skiing with my friends, but I don’t want to make a song about that, and I don’t want to hear a song about it either.”

Kanye West Blames Hennessy For Antisemitic Remarks: “I Definitely Was Drinking”

Kanye West claims he was drunk when he made his inflammatory antisemitic comments on Twitter (X) in 2022.

In an old interview with conservative Candace Owens that just surfaced on Wednesday (August 7), West said, “I definitely was drinking when I put up the Death Con tweet. You wanna know what alcohol I had inside me? Hennessy.” He went on to say it made him “gray” and quickly brought out his inner demons. But interestingly enough, when Owens asked why he didn’t just divulge that information when the backlash began, he said he didn’t want his words discredited.

West’s first offensive tweet about the Jewish community arrived in October 2022. He tweeted in part, “I’m a bit sleepy tonight but when I wake up I’m going death con 3 on JEWISH PEOPLE.” But that was just the beginning. He then went on to make a series of antisemitic comments in interviews, which were widely condemned as harmful. During an interview with InfoWars, he praised Adolf Hitler, sparking even more outrage.

During Paris Fashion Week, West wore a shirt with the slogan “White Lives Matter,” which many perceived as a provocative and insensitive response to the Black Lives Matter movement. His erratic behavior on social media, including targeted harassment of individuals and spreading misinformation, further alienated many fans and public figures.

West ultimately issued a half-baked apology, written in Hebrew, in December 2023 via Instagram. He wrote: “I sincerely apologize to the Jewish community for any unintended outburst caused by my words or actions, it was not my intention to hurt or disrespect, and I deeply regret any pain I may have caused. I am committed to starting with myself and learning from this experience to ensure greater sensitivity and understanding in the future.”

Kanye West also asked for forgiveness, claiming it is “important” to him and that he wants to make amends and promote unity. But most people didn’t buy it, including Hot 97’s Peter Rosenberg. He assumed he was only apologizing because he was about to drop the first installment of Vultures with Ty Dolla $ign.

“I thought, ‘I wonder what the sample is that Kanye needs to try to clear before Friday,'” Rosenberg said. “We all know Kanye notoriously is late with handling album stuff. I just wonder whether there was something getting held up. And someone said, ‘Hey, this sample does not get cleared if he does not issue an apology.’ Like you guys said, he just goes on chat GPT and boom we get a quote apology.”

He added, “No part of me believes this apology. I totally agree by the way that the Hebrew part was like so, either intentionally or unintentionally, offensive. As if American Jews can just read Hebrew without vowels. Like bro, it’s just another offensive thing here.”

Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign just released the second installment of Vultures. It’s expected to debut at No. 2 with around 68,000 units sold in its opening week. Taylor Swift will once again take the top spot.

Foolio Murder: Detailed Plot Revealed By Prosecutors

Rapper Julio Foolio was stalked through Tampa and assassinated in a brutal gang feud, prosecutors revealed Tuesday.

Court documents detail a sinister sequence of events that led to the death of Foolio, a member of the KTA/6 Block gang, targeted by rivals from the ATK (Ace’s Top Killers) gang.

On Sunday, June 23, Foolio, whose real name is Charles Jones, Jr., was gunned down at a Holiday Inn as he celebrated his birthday.

The suspects, Isaiah Chance, Alicia Andrews, Sean Gathright, Davion Murphy and Rashad Murphy, used two cars— a Chevy Cruze and a Chevy Impala— and followed Foolio to two strip clubs before ambushing him at the hotel, according to the court records.

The assailants wielded two AR-style rifles and a Glock pistol in the cold-blooded killing.

Investigators discovered that on the night of the murder, Chance and his girlfriend, Andrews, shadowed Foolio from one strip club to the next.

Surveillance footage showed Chance on his phone at one of the clubs, calling Gathright, who was in the second vehicle.

Both cars eventually converged at the Holiday Inn, where the fatal attack unfolded.

The suspects circled Foolio’s vehicle twice before the Murphys and Gathright opened fire. Julio Foolio was pronounced dead at the scene, while three others were injured in the hail of bullets.

Law enforcement agencies have arrested four of the five suspects, who are now facing first-degree murder charges and are being held without bond.

Authorities are actively seeking Davion Murphy, and his capture appears imminent.

KRS-One To Lead HIP-HOP 51 March For Urban Health & Peaceful Conflict Resolution

Hip-Hop icon KRS-One is set to spearhead a powerful peace initiative on the culture’s 51st birthday, August 11. Dubbed The HIP-HOP 51 “Walk This Way” March For Urban Health & Non-Violent Conflict Resolution, the event promises to be a historic event with KRS-One leading the charge.

The march begins at the birthplace of Hip-Hop, 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in the Bronx, where KRS-One and other leaders will host a private press conference and deliver opening remarks. After the press conference, he and other leaders will convene at Cedar Park to begin the march at 10 a.m. ET.

Participants are encouraged to check in at Cedar Park between 8:00am and 10:00am to receive their credentials and all will move from Cedar Park to Crotona Park, which is also in The Bronx. Closing remarks take place at 12 p.m. ET.

Additional activities will continue at The Temple of Hip-Hop in Newark, New Jersey at 3:30 pm ET. The free concert runs until 8 p.m. and will feature a festival-style atmosphere with free food, water and activities for children and seniors.

KRS-One’s leadership in promoting peace and conflict resolution through Hip-Hop is well-documented through the years. Legendary songs like “Self Destruction” (1989) and “Stop the Violence” (1988) have reverberated through the years as audio advocates for social change. KRS, known as The Teacha, has consistently used his platform to address critical issues facing urban communities.

See more information below on the march.

PnB Rock Murder Trial: Suspects Found Guilty On All Counts

PnB Rock‘s family scored a major victory on Wednesday (August 7), when suspects Freddie Trone and Tremont Jones were convicted for the rapper’s 2022 murder.

According to a tweet from Rolling Stone reporter Nancy Dillion, Trone was found guilty of felony murder, two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy, while Jones was found guilty of robbery and conspiracy. The jury took less than two hours to deliberate. Rock’s mother, Deannea Allen, told the publication she was “elated” shortly after the verdict was read.

Trone is the father of the 17-year-old shooter, who was deemed mentally unfit to stand trial and is currently in custody of the juvenile system. During the trial, prosecution told the jury Trone and his son went to the Roscoe’s Chicken & Waffles in Los Angeles after being tipped off by Jones that Rock was dining there.

The State alleged Trone instructed his son to go in and rob the rapper, who was shot and relieved of his jewelry by the teen in front of the rapper’s fiancée, Stephanie Sibounheuang. Trone’s defense team argued he only helped his son after the fact and had no part in setting up or masterminding the robbery.

“I understand you’re trying to put together your story,” Trone told a prosecutor during cross-examination in a Compton courtroom on Monday (August 5). “I never had nothing to do with it. I wasn’t there. I didn’t tell nobody to do nothing. I didn’t hand nobody no gun.”

However, the jury didn’t buy it. Trone’s wife and reported mistress were also charged in connection to PnB Rock’s death but pleaded no contest to being an accessory after the fact prior to the trial. Allen found out the two men charged in connection to her son’s shooting death were on trial like most people did. Allen told Rolling Stone she discovered the trial was underway via social media, prompting her to go to great lengths to travel from Philadelphia to Compton to attend the final day of testimony earlier this week.

“I’m here to get justice,” Allen said. “I want justice. This was my son, my child. I want the jury to know he has a family who loves him and wants to support him. I learned a lot today.”

Trone and Jones will be sentenced at a later date.

Kim Kardashian Files Restraining Order Against Stalker Trying To Contact Her Kids With Kanye

Kim Kardashian has sought legal protection against an alleged stalker.

According to documents obtained by TMZ, the reality TV star filed a request for a restraining order against Melvin Jeffery Conley.

Highlighting the disturbing nature of the case, Kardashian’s colleague Emma Roberts, who is on “American Horror Story: Delicate,” has already experienced a frightening encounter with Conley.

Roberts reported that Conley broke into her home and called her from her landline.

Adding to the gravity of the issue, Roberts, who evaded confrontation with Conley during his break-in, has already secured a five-year restraining order against him.

In her filing, Kim Kardashian stated that Roberts warned her Conley wanted to contact Kardashian and her children with Kanye West.

Conley’s actions seem increasingly alarming.

The day after he intruded into Roberts’ residence, he reportedly visited the home of Kardashian’s mother, Kris Jenner.

He allegedly informed security guards there that he had a scheduled meeting with Kim Kardashian, presenting himself as her “long-term manager” and claiming to be an NBA player with the Toronto Raptors.

The situation escalated further in July when Conley allegedly showed up at Kardashian’s Malibu home.

At that point, security guards intercepted him, and he reportedly stated that he intended to climb the fence surrounding the property.

Cop Accused Of Stealing JAY-Z’s Expensive Champagne Takes Plea Deal, Quits NYPD

One of the three New York Police Department (NYPD) detectives accused of stealing thousands of dollars of JAY-Z’s expensive champagne has admitted to the theft and quit the force.

In May 2023, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg announced the indictments of detectives Jonathan Gonzalez, Warren Golden, Wojciech Czech and Warren Golden.

The four officers were charged with stealing the expensive champagne while on duty patrolling for drugs at the Electric Zoo Music Festival on Randall’s Island.

The detectives were in the VIP area when attendees ordered bottles of Ace of Spades champagne at a nearby table. When the attendees stepped away, Gonzalez took two unopened bottles worth $2,900 and put them in a backpack with Czech’s assistance.

A festival attendee witnessed the theft and reported it to security. Security and the attendees confronted the detectives, which led to the retrieval of the stolen bottles.

Gonzalez and Czech were charged with grand larceny in the fourth degree and criminal possession of stolen property in the fourth degree.

Golden and Gonzalez were also charged with official misconduct for failing to prevent theft of the brand JAY-Z acquired in 2006. He sold half of the brand to LVMH for at least $315 million in 2021.

“[My client] is shocked and saddened by these allegations,” Czech’s attorney, Attorney Oliver Storch, said right after being indicted. He has pleaded not guilty and asks the public to withhold judgment until the charges can be fully addressed in the appropriate forum. Detective Czech loves being in the business of protecting and saving lives.”

Now Czech is singing a different tune. According to the New York Daily News, Czech resigned from the force on Tuesday (August 6) after pleading guilty to stealing the pricy bottles of champagne.

Czech struck a plea deal in which he was forced to quit the NYPD and admit to one count of misdemeanor petty larceny. He must also complete 15 days of community service.

Gonzalez already quit the police department and pleaded guilty, while Gooden got off easy and was disciplined for his inaction against his fellow officers.

District Attorney Bragg emphasized the importance of integrity within law enforcement, stating that public confidence in the criminal justice system relies on officers adhering to the same rules as the public.

“In addition to the alleged theft that occurred, none of these officers stepped up and stopped this activity,” District Attorney Bragg said. “Public confidence in the criminal justice system depends on members of law enforcement acting with the utmost integrity while on duty and following the same rules that apply to everyone else.”

Drake Mocked By Fans For Spilling Tea On Exes In Mega Dump 

Drake shocked everyone when he posted a mega dump of unreleased music and behind-the-scenes footage, seemingly out of nowhere. 

On Tuesday (August 6), the OVO honcho dropped a whopping 100GB of content on a website called 100gigs.org. News of the dump exploded onto social media, with fans trawling through the various files. 

In addition to three new songs, fans honed in on some of the video clips, including some with Drake discussing past lovers. 

In one, Drake reveals that he wrote a song about one rumored ex-flame and recorded it with another former lover. He told his mother that his 2016 collaboration with Rihanna, “Too Good,” was “more about me and Serena.”  

Drake was romantically linked to tennis superstar Serena Williams before her marriage.  

“It’s funny because when I make songs about women, I also make songs for them.” Drake explained. “If I’m going to talk about them, I’ll at least do them the justice of making a song that they like.”  

He added, “I know Serena very well, and I know that she’ll hear it loud and clear, but not hate me for it because it’s lighthearted.” 

When his mother replied, “and she is seeing someone else,” Drake shrugged, saying, “I don’t know, mom.” 

Social media users clowned Drake for the admissions, with one claiming, “He is so obsessed omg.” 

Another person added, “Getting your ex Rihanna to sing about your other ex Serena is insane.” 

Another clip raising eyebrows online featured Drake discussing the woman who inspired “Hotline Bling.” 

“We just finished f###### and her phone would be blowing up,” he told some friends. ”So I saved her name in my phone as ‘Hotline Bling.’ That’s always been her name in my phone.” He also joked that he would have called himself “Hotline Bling” if he were a Dancehall artist. 

While many of the comments reacted to the over-zealous laughter of someone off-camera, others insisted Drake looked“corny.” 

“Such a cornball,” one user replied. 

“I feel like this entire drop has only made Drake look even cornier and weird with women,” another said.  

If that wasn’t enough, Drake was also catching heat over his Latto collab. Nicki Minaj fans accused him of turning on her for linking someone she fell out with publicly. Check out some of the reactions below. 

Amber Rose Denies Backing Donald Trump In Exchange For Pardon In Alleged Crypto Scam 

Amber Rose is speaking out following rumors that she supports Donald Trump in his election campaign because she’s in trouble with the feds over an alleged crypto scam. 

The model and entrepreneur’s support for the 34 times convicted felon shocked fans following her previous criticism of Trump. She faced additional criticism after endorsing the former President at the Republican National Convention

On Tuesday (August 6), Amber Rose hopped on Instagram Live to deny she’s backing Donald Trump for her own gain. She also denied involvement in any scam and insisted Trump will win the election in November.  

“I’ve been seeing comments that the only reason I endorse Trump is because I’m in trouble for a crypto scheme and I want Trump to pardon me,” Rose began. “That’s absolutely ridiculous.” 

She continued, asserting, “I’ve never been in trouble my entire life,” and that she is “a law-abiding citizen” and a “sweetheart.” 

Calling the people spreading rumors of a crypto scam “weird,” she doubled down on her denial.   

“I’m not out to scam people,” she added. “I’ve never scammed anyone in my life. Just stop guys it’s corny. Just come to the terms that Trump is gonna win and he’s the best for our country. I don’t need to get pardoned for s###.” 

Amber Rose Addresses Crypto Scam Claims

Amber Rose previously faced accusations of pushing crypto scams in the past after supporting various coins. She was slapped with a community note on X (Twitter) back in June after promoting a new coin. 

“When I made those promotional posts, I wasn’t as knowledgeable about crypto as I am now,” she wrote in response to the note. “At the time, I didn’t fully understand the nature of paid promotions in this space. Moving forward, I want to assure you that I’m committed to this project for the long run and will be heavily involved. My goal is to provide transparent and informed communication to our community.” 

Kai Cenat Claims Secret Service Hounding Him For Kamala Harris Interview 

Kai Cenat claims the Secret Service is at his neck to stream with Kamala Harris after her political rival appeared with another streamer. 

The popular Twitch streamer faced calls to interview Harris after Donald Trump made headlines with his Adin Ross discussion. Despite his initial reluctance and a lack of political knowledge, Cenat is considering the proposal. 

On Tuesday night (August 6) Kai Cenat announced that the Secret Service had called him “five times,” asking him to have Kamala Harris on his stream.  

“I’ve got the f###### Secret Service calling me five times n####! I don’t know g###### s### about politics my n####, I don’t know nothing,” he yelled, while accidentally knocking his camera off the desk.  

He also claimed a mystery woman, who he’s tried to get on the stream for years, suddenly contacted him to convince him to interview Harris.  

“At first, I was thinking she was talking about a game. A video game, like a Modern Warfare game or some s###, or if not that, a clothing brand,” he said. 

Nonetheless, Kai Cenat insisted he would be transparent if he were to stream with Kamala Harris. 

“If someway, somehow, something was to go into where I do a stream of politics, I’m going to be 100 percent honest. I’m going to sit on my stream and say ‘why did you guys call me?’” he declared. “I’ve never done anything with politics and these blogs are like ‘Yo, you’ve got to do this s### Kai.’ And it’s all the top blogs.” 

A post from a popular social media account suggesting Cenat stream with the Vice President following Trump’s Adin Ross stream was viewed more than 16 million times on X (Twitter).

Latto Teases “Sugar Honey Ice Tea” Features With Mysterious Hotline 

Latto is teasing the featured artists on her highly anticipated album, Sugar Honey Ice Tea, just days before the official release. 

The “Sunday Service” hitmaker has remained tight-lipped about her collaborators, and she’s still not ready to reveal all. However, she gave fans a hint at her featured artists with a unique strategy. 

On Tuesday (August 6) Latto shared a phone number on her Instagram Story.  

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Callers were met with a message from Latto teasing her collaborators. “I’m about to let me hear some of my features,” she said on the recording. “Y’all let me know if you hear any familiar voices.” 

Fans rushed to social media to speculate, with Ciara being a hot favorite as the first voice. Other guesses included SZA, Sexyy, Red Ciara, Coco Jones and Mariah the Scientist 

Latto has yet to reveal the Sugar Honey Ice Tea tracklist, but fans won’t have long to wait. “Tracklist tomorrow,” she promised after teasing the features. “Goodnight.” 

Latto is set to drop Sugar Honey Ice Tea later this week on Friday, August 9. 

Earlier in the day, Latto was making headlines after a collab with Drake was included in a massive dump. The OVO honcho stunned fans, dropping a whopping 100GB of content on a website called 100gigs.org.  

Included in the haul were three new tracks, including “Housekeeping Knows” featuring Latto. She shared a visualizer for the track on social media. 

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Kanye West Hooked On Nitrous Gas, Yeezy Ex-Chief Of Staff Claims In Shock Legal Filing

Kanye West’s former chief of staff, Milo Yiannopoulos, made a number of claims about the rapper’s alleged use of nitrous gas in an affidavit accompanying a complaint against a celebrity dentist. 

Yiannopoulos said he was “motivated by urgent concern,” for West’s “health and safety,” per Daily Mail. He shared concerns about Thomas P. Connelly, the dentist who installed Ye‘s permanent titanium grill. These include “the unlawful supply of enormous quantities of nitrous gas to a wealthy, famous patient for explicitly recreational use.” 

According to the affidavit, Yiannopoulos claimed Connelly “supplied West with advisors … who demanded gigantic sums for their services” and proposed “widespread and disruptive changes,” to his business. Furthermore, he alleged the dentist was counting on West’s “growing dependence of nitrous gas” ”to seal the deal.” 

Yeezy Staff Concerned About Kanye West’s “Dependence” On Nitrous

Yiannopoulos, who quit working for Yeezy in May, also alleged Ye’s staff “were worrying about” West’s “dependence on the gas and speaking openly about it.” He claimed employees were concerned after seeing “four large surgical tanks of nitrous oxide into Bianca Censori’s apartment.” One Yeezy employee said they saw West “self-administering the nitrous gas provided by Connelly.” 

The affidavit continued with Yiannopoulos stating West talked “about it non-stop in meetings” and “seemed to be in an out of the inhaler mask on a near-constant basis,” and “communications ‘were becoming incomprehensible and contradictory.” 

In his filing, Yiannopoulos noted the similarities between “West’s ‘widely-reported bipolar diagnosis and the side effects of prolonged nitrous gas abuse.” They include “erratic behavior, mood swings, paranoia and violence.” 

Yiannopoulos said he believes the dentist “sought to exploit” Kanye West’s “psychological vulnerabilities.” 

While not naming Kanye West specifically, Yiannopoulos said Connely fraudulently took “millions of dollars … from a patient he knew to be in a confused, dependent, weakened and addicted state.” 

In 2015, Kanye West claimed he gained a “completely new attitude on everything” after a dentist gave him nitrous gas.  

Meanwhile, in July, Yiannopoulos claimed Kanye West was “hooked on nitrous thanks to the Doctor Death of Dentistry.” Additionally, he alleged employees did nothing while watching Ye “permanently destroy his brain with a neurotoxin.” 

Kehlani Addresses Sex Cult Allegations As Ex Demands Retraction 

Kehlani has broken her silence after her ex-boyfriend Javaughn Young-White accused the singer of being involved in a sex cult and endangering their child.  

TMZ reported that Young-White sought full custody of their child, Adeya Nomi, citing sexual assault accusations against the alleged cult’s leader. He also claimed the leader influenced Kehlani to prevent him from seeing their five-year-old daughter.  

On Tuesday evening (August 6) Kehlani took to her Instagram Story to address the allegations.  

“What has been published in the media over the past 24 hours is incredibly hurtful, inaccurate, inappropriate and simply untrue,” Kehlani began. “I strongly deny any claims that I have put my child in harm’s way, or left my child alone with anyone deemed dangerous or unsafe. I also do not align with any of the allegations made against my former religious community that have been stated in the media.” 

Addressing Young-White’s concerns about their daughter, Kehlani continued. “I have always taken great care to ensure that my child remains protected and safe at all times. My child and my commitment to motherhood have always been my sole driving forces in this life and will always remain so. I will not be commenting further and will let the legal due process take place.” 

Instagram/Kehlani

Kehlani’s Ex Denies Saying His Daughter Is In A Cult

The “Next 2 U” hitmaker also shared a statement from Young-White claiming TMZ misrepresented his remarks.  

“I never said that I think Santeria is a sex cult,” he wrote. “Nor did I say that my daughter is in a sex cult. That’s factually incorrect and I think it’s disgusting that TMZ would exploit a child’s image like that.” 

Young-White also challenged some of the claims in the TMZ article.

“The TMZ article sensationalized aspects of what was said while simultaneously breaching my confidentiality,” he added. “Further, the filing of my case was incomplete and did not have my authorization by error of counsel. I am no longer represented by the aforementioned counsel.” 

He said ”the full range of my concern,” will be outlined in an amended filing. “I do not need to paint an unfair image of my co-parent for my justifiable feelings to be respected by the court of law. This unfortunate trauma only increases the obstacles in ensuring my child’s wellbeing.” 

Lauryn Hill Quietly Cancels Tour With Fugees Days Before First Date 

Lauryn Hill has abruptly canceled her tour with Fugees just three days before the first gig without any explanation. 

On Tuesday (August 6) ticket holders for the tour set to kick off this Friday, August 9, began receiving notifications that the tour had been canceled. Ticketmaster removed the tour dates and informed fans that refunds would be issued at the point of purchase. 

No reason was given for shelving the tour, which was also set to celebrate the 25th anniversary of her iconic album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. It’s unclear if the overseas shows will also be scrapped and tickets remain on sale. 

Lauryn Hill Fans Reacts To Canceled Fugees Tour

Frustrated ticket holders flocked to social media following the news, with some posting screenshots of a Live Nation message: “Your event has been canceled. A refund will be on its way to your account soon.”

Other ticket holders and fans expressed disappointment in the latest in a series of cancellations for Lauryn Hill and Fugees in recent years.  

“ITS SO DISHEARTENING BEING A FAN OF LAURYN HILL,” one person wrote on X (Twitter). “Last October, a hour before the show in Dallas, it was cancelled with no warning. I tried again this run even when EVERYONE clowned me saying I was foolish for trying. Cancelled AGAIN. I love Lauryn man. But damn yo. DO BETTER.” 

“Every time I have heard Lauryn Hill’s name for the last decade and a half it was because she was not showing up to a show. That is not an exaggeration. Those are the only times I’ve heard her name,” another disgruntled fan noted. 

Last November, strained vocal cords forced Lauryn Hill to cancel the remaining dates on the 25th anniversary tour of her only solo album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill

“As many of you may know, I’ve been battling serious vocal strain for the past month,” she wrote on Instagram. “I made it through each show by taking prescribed prednisone, but this can be detrimental to the body when taken in large amounts over long periods of time. In order to prevent any long term negative affect on my voice and my body, I need to take time off to allow for real vocal recovery so that I can discontinue the medication completely.” 

Saweetie Dodges “Barbie World” Question—Says Ice Spice & Nicki Minaj Fans Will Drag Her

Saweetie is proof that the saying “time heals all wounds” only applies to certain situations, especially if Ice Spice and Nicki Minaj’s fans are involved in the instance.

During a recent interview bit for Cosmopolitan, Saweetie was asked about her New York rap counterparts cinematic collab “Barbie World.” The premise of the segment warranted that the “NANi” rapper either answer the question on the cue card or take a shot.

Considering Ice and Nicki’s collab dropped over a year ago in-tandem with the “Barbie” film, one would think this wouldn’t be a controversial topic at all. However, it is definitely still a messy topic, especially considering they were asking which version of the song was and Saweetie’s reaction to the question is evidence of such.

“Girl, why do you want to have all the fan bases fight me,” Saweetie teased as she questioned the interviewer’s interventions. “For political reasons [takes shot]. Girl, you gone have two fan bases—one dragging me and one punching me.”

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Jason Martin, the rapper formerly known as Problem, claimed Nicki Minaj stole Saweetie’s idea to sample Aqua’s single “Barbie Girl” for the Barbie movie. According to Martin, it was Nicki who ran of on the plug with the song after it was allegedly proposed to her as a collaboration with Saweetie.

“As a writer on this, I can confirm this song and idea was sent to [Nicki Minaj] last year to submit for the Barbie movie,” Problem wrote. “It’s sad to see that the original artist has been pushed off a song that was her idea and was meant for both of them. I have no side in this, but I will be compensated.”

At this point, we all just need to be able to hear both versions of the track to decide once and for all.

For now, though, check out the cheeky clip above.

Wiz Khalifa Recorded His Latest Feature “Within A Few Hours” Rapper Shwayze Says

Shwayze says Wiz Khalifa is working at the speed of light when it comes to cooking up his guest verses.

The Malibu-bred, alt-rap sensation recently teamed up with Pittsburgh’s rap superstar for his latest single and music video, “Smoke Too Soon.”

Known for his hits “Corona & Lime” and “Buzzin,” Shwayze continues to push the boundaries of his sound with this new alt-rap/reggae-infused track. The music video, directed by Nicholas Jandora, offers a fun, laid-back vibe set at KH Cinnamon Donuts in Los Angeles.

It also features appearances from artists such as GaTa from the FX series Dave, Bryce Vine and, of course, Wiz Khalifa himself. Shwayze spoke about how the collab came together, remarking on the astonishing rate Wiz Khalifa brought his verse to life after they began work on the record.

“Wiz [Khalifa] and I have crossed paths for years,” Shwayze explained in a press release. “I sent him a few demos, and he sent me his vocals within a few hours. I’m glad we could finally make this collab happen.”

The new single captures a perfect blend of Cali Reggae and Hip-Hop, which Shwayze describes as “combining both genres effortlessly. Feel good vibes only.”

The synergy between Shwayze and Wiz Khalifa is evident in the smooth, relaxed flow of the song as well as the cinematic video, which has a plot that teeters somewhere between Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre’s “The Wash” and Method Man and Redman’s “How High.” The record alone is a testament to what Shwayze says is a truly high-level work for himself.

Shwaycation, my eighth studio album, drops on September 13, and I truly believe it’s my best work yet,” he said. “Collaborating with Wiz and GaTa on the music video for ‘Smoke Too Soon’ was an incredible experience. I’m thankful for the continued support that allows me to share my passion for music.”

Shwayze first burst onto the scene with his breakout hit “Corona & Lime,” a track that encapsulated the laid-back, sun-soaked vibes of Malibu and quickly became a summer anthem. His unique blend of alternative, indie pop and alt-rap has continued to evolve, earning him a dedicated fan base and a niche spot in the music industry.

As of recent years, Shwayze has branched out into film and television after landing recurring roles on the shows Abbott Elementary and Lincoln Lawyer. With Shwaycation on the horizon, Shwayze is poised to make a significant impact once again. He’s set to embark on the 21-date headlining live circuit dubbed the Permanent Shwaycation Tour.

Check out the video for their collaboration above.

Kid Cudi’s Classic ‘MOTM’-Era Music Video Was Shot For $5K By His New Co-Star Josh Hartnett

You can’t make anything like this up; the only way to describe the big screen reunion of actor Josh Hartnett and rap sensation Kid Cudi is as an amusing twist of fate.

In a story that sounds like something out of a feel-good movie, the pair of creative collaborators, who became fast friends, recently joined forces in M. Night Shyamalan’s new thriller, Trap. The Cleveland rapper both cut a record for the film’s soundtrack and got some screen time alongside his Hollywood pal. Hartnett recently dished to The Hook about the serendipitous start of his friendship with Kid Cudi, recalling their first meeting in New York.

“Cudi was doing his first concert at Terminal 7, opening for a band called Ratatat,” Hartnett began. “I knew Ratatat, so I was sidestage. He came off stage and was like, ‘Hey, you’re Josh, right?’ and I was like, ‘Yeah, man, great show.’ He said he just moved to New York and wanted to be friends, and I was like, ‘Yeah!’ So, we became friends.”

The casual backstage introduction blossomed into a solid friendship and about a year later, the two found themselves collaborating on one of Kid Cudi’s most iconic music videos. As Hartnett shared how the opportunity arose when Cudi was gearing up to release his album, he revealed he pitched him the idea they ended up using after he needed a video for his hit song “Pursuit of Happiness.”

“We shot that in one night for five grand,” Hackett recounted with a chuckle. “Unbelievable.”

Kid Cudi caught wind of Hartnett’s interview and promptly responded fondly on Twitter (X): “Life is crazy sometimes. Love Josh forever. Homie for life. make art with your friends.”

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Kid Cudi and Hartnett’s late-night, low budget shoot resulted in a visually captivating video that perfectly complemented Cudi’s introspective and euphoric track. The DIY nature of their project didn’t just save costs; it captured the raw, authentic energy that resonated with fans worldwide.

Kid Cudi’s “Pursuit of Happiness” has since become an anthem of a generation, contributing to the success of his debut album, Man on the Moon: The End of Day, which was released nearly 15 years ago.

The album soared in popularity, achieving RIAA platinum certification, while “Pursuit of Happiness” itself also earned platinum status. The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to Kid Cudi’s unique artistry and the magic that can happen when two creative minds collide.

Check out the post above for the full interview clip.

Chris Brown Associate Lo’s Alleged Killer Arrested After Landing On Most Wanted List

U.S. Marshals apprehended the man accused of killing Chris Brown’s collaborator and friend Lowell “Lo” Grissom. Deshawn “Thorobread” Davis was captured in California on Monday (August 5).

“I commend the men and women of the Marshals Service and our partners for the capture of Deshawn Davis,” U.S. Marshals Service Director Ronald L. Davis said. “It is our hope that this apprehension brings justice to his victims and safety to the community.”

Davis was added to the U.S. Marshals’ Most Wanted Fugitives list on August 1. U.S. Marshals offered up to $25,000 for information leading to the 36-year-old man’s capture. Davis was allegedly involved in a kidnapping in addition to Grissom’s murder.

Authorities accuse Davis of fatally shooting Grissom during a party at Miami Beach’s GALA Nightclub in May 2023. Two women were injured in the incident.

Grissom, also known as Young Lo or EverybodyKnowLo, was a talent scout for Chris Brown Entertainment. Brown mourned his friend’s death on Instagram in 2023.

“Love you bro,” Brown wrote. “Rest up MY BROTHER.”

Davis was a wanted man in Canada at the time of Grissom’s murder. Authorities believe Grissom was the victim of a targeted attack “with a gang nexus.”

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Grissom’s alleged killer and others were charged with kidnapping in February 2023. Canadian officials said Davis was involved in the January 2022 kidnapping of Elnaz Hajtamiri.

The victim is presumed dead. Her ex-boyfriend Mohamad Lilo was charged with murder by way of direct indictment.

Ontario Provincial Police and York Regional Police are offering a $100,000 reward for information regarding the whereabouts of Hajtamiri. Canadian investigators are collaborating with U.S. law enforcement in their investigation of the kidnapping.

Drake Drops 100GB Of Content—Including New Songs—Following Kendrick Lamar Beef

Drake surprised fans by unleashing 100GB of content on a website called 100gigs.org on Tuesday (August 6). The release initially appeared to be a leak as it emerged from a seemingly random Instagram account, now speculated to be Drake’s burner.

“100 GIGS FOR YOUR HEADTOP,” the account declared.

Drake’s label OVO Sound confirmed the content was not a leak on X (formerly known as Twitter). It shared a link to the website and tagged Drake in a post on Tuesday afternoon.

The 100GB release included three new songs. Latto, who appeared on one of the tracks, shared a snippet with a video of her riding a horse on her social media platforms.

Drake enlisted Latto for a song called “Housekeeping Knows.” Frequent collaborator 21 Savage and the incarcerated Young Thug contributed to a track titled “It’s Up.” The third song was a solo cut called “Blue Green Red.”

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The rest of the content was filled with behind-the-scenes footage of Drake from music videos, studio sessions and more. The 100 gigs site made every folder available for download.

Drake’s unexpected drop was his first batch of new music since his much-discussed battle against Kendrick Lamar. Drake was the last person to release a diss track in their beef, but K. Dot was widely declared the winner thanks to the hit single “Not Like Us.” Drake’s “The Heart Part 6” largely became a footnote following its release in May.

Lamar’s “Not Like Us” peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, achieving a level of popularity that few diss tracks do. K. Dot took a victory lap when he performed the song multiple times at his Juneteenth concert The Pop Out: Ken & Friends in June. The event was livestreamed on Amazon Prime Video. Lamar released a music video for “Not Like Us” in July.

Young Thug Trial: Witness At Center Of Controversy Suggests He May Not Testify

Judge Paige Reese Whitaker informed Kenneth “Woody” Copeland he would be held in contempt if he refused to testify again in Young Thug’s RICO trial on Tuesday (August 6). Copeland claimed he wasn’t sure if he would testify when the trial resumes next week.

“Depend on how I wake up,” Copeland responded when asked if he’d testify, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Jozsef Papp.

Copeland was the key witness who spoke with the case’s former judge and prosecutors in a secret meeting that derailed Young Thug’s trial. Defense attorneys believed Judge Ural Glanville and the prosecution coerced Copeland into testifying in June.

The secret meeting created legal chaos, resulting in Judge Glanville’s recusal from the case. Judge Rachel Krause ordered Judge Glanville’s exit in July.

“This Court has no doubt that Judge Glanville can and would continue presiding fairly over this matter if the recusal motions were denied, but the ‘necessity of preserving the public’s confidence in the judicial system’ weighs in favor of excusing Judge Glanville from further handling of this case,” Krause ruled.

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Judge Shukura Ingram was assigned to take over the case from Judge Glanville. She quickly recused herself due to a potential conflict of interest. Judge Whitaker was tasked with handling the complicated case following Ingram’s decision.

The defense sought a mistrial, but Judge Whitaker seemed determined to push forward with Young Thug’s trial. Judge Whitaker planned for testimony to resume on August 12. The trial has been on hold since the first week of July. It started in 2023.

Young Thug has remained in jail since his 2022 arrest. Judge Whitaker denied his renewed motion for bond.

“I’m not going to reconsider any bond issues that have already been considered and ruled upon by another court absent legitimate changed circumstances,” she said in July.

Young Thug’s lawyer Brian Steel filed a motion to disqualify the lead prosecutors in the RICO case. Judge Whitaker has yet to rule on the matter.