Janelle Monae made the most of the spotlight when Usher serenaded her at his Las Vegas residency.
The duo put on a sizzling display, sharing an intimate dance while Usher crooned a series of his hits. Usher and Monae flirted back-and-forth as he dedicated his song “Superstar” to her.
In a carousel of videos uploaded on Instagram Wednesday (November 22), the singers can be seen putting on a steamy show.
The temperature rose even further when Usher launched into his serenading anthem, “There Goes My Baby.” Monae wrapped her arms around Usher’s neck as he sang to her, staring into her eyes. At one point, the pair giggled as they sipped on glasses of champagne.
Janelle Monae thanked Usher in the caption, writing, “we bl(ush)ed in vegas,” and “1 of 1. incredible show.” Check out the clips below.
Janelle Monae isn’t the only one going viral after being serenaded by Usher. He wanted no smoke with Dwayne Wade when the athlete attended the show with his wife, Gabrielle Union. “I ain’t crazy,” Usher joked while shaking Wade’s hand. “That man will knock my whole head off and then dunk it.”
However, he had no such reservations when British model Leomie Anderson caught his eye in Paris. “I think I found my baby over here,” Usher said of the model.
Meanwhile Keke Palmer famously found herself on the receiving end of her boyfriend’s wrath when Usher serenaded her in Vegas. Controversy ensued when Darius Jackson publicly chastised Palmer for fitted, sheer dress to the concert. The pair have since split, with Palmer being granted sole custody of their infant son amid allegations Jackson abused his former girlfriend.
Cuba Gooding Jr. is being sued by two women for alleged sexual misconduct.
In lawsuits filed in the New York Supreme Court on Wednesday, one woman accused Cuba Gooding Jr. of forcibly kissing her without her consent in 2018 while she was working as a cocktail waitress at the Lavo nightclub in Manhattan.
The second woman accused the Oscar-winning actor of groping her breast at the Magic Hour rooftop bar in the Big Apple in 2019. Accusations by the plaintiffs and a third woman were the basis for a criminal prosecution against Gooding Jr. last year.
He was expected to go to trial over allegations of unwanted sexual touching but pleaded guilty to one count of forcible touching in relation to the 2018 kissing claim as part of a plea deal.
Gloria Allred, who is representing the two plaintiffs, said in a statement, “Our clients were deprived of the justice they sought in the criminal case. They are now seeking justice and accountability in their civil cases. We are proud of their courage and intend to vigorously fight for them until they win the justice that they deserve.”
Both women are seeking unspecified damages for assault and battery, lost wages, emotional distress and physical injury, and attorneys’ fees.
The 55-year-old pleaded guilty to forcibly touching in April 2022.
Six months later, the charge was downgraded to harassment as he had complied with the terms of his plea deal, which included alcohol and behavior counseling.
He admitted to the count and subsequently avoided jail time in October 2022.
The lawsuits were filed under New York’s Adult Survivors Act, which allows people to sue their alleged abusers even if the statute of limitations has run out.
The deadline for filing civil claims expires this week and has led to a wave of sexual misconduct lawsuits against celebrities including Diddy, Jamie Foxx, Axl Rose and music executive Jimmy Iovine.
Axl Rose denied the allegation and a spokesperson for Iovine said he was “quite shocked and baffled” by the claim.
Joe Budden faced backlash earlier this week after removing a portion of his podcast that discussed the lawsuit Cassie Ventura filed against Diddy.
According to Budden, he edited out the lawsuit topic for a number of reasons, including his fears that there’s some truth to the allegations about Diddy’s violent conduct.
“What if that n#### did all that s### he’s accused of? Like in the rumors?,” he questioned on the most recent episode of the Joe Budden Podcast. “What if he did some of that s###, like the violent stuff?”
When Queenzflip seemed confused, Parks chimed in with, “Because if he’s gonna do that to Kid Cudi?”
In her lawsuit, Cassie Ventura alleged Diddy was so angry about her dating Cudi that he threatened to blow up Cudi’s car. His car would explode in the driveway around that time. Through a spokeswoman, Kid Cudi confirmed Ventura’s account. Ventura also alleged Diddy was ready to shoot Suge Knight at one point.
“If some of that is true, why would you want to inherit that?” Joe Budden continued. “Sounds like a headache. Don’t sound like the risk is worth the reward there to me.”
Additionally, Budden said he axed the segment because it would be poor timing if the hosts “did not believe all of the things that Cassie had to say in that civil suit.”
Joe Budden Said Diddy Listens To The Podcast
He also said that Diddy listens to the podcast and believes it would have been “irresponsible” to discuss the lawsuit. “I don’t have proof that he raped somebody,” Budden said, adding he has no proof of other allegations in the suit.
“And I worked with him,” he added. “That ain’t the time to come on your broadcast and say, ‘Hey, this is what’s going on and I believe all that s###.’”
Furthermore, the rapper turned podcaster claims he had “legal reasons,” for editing out the lawsuit discussion. He was concerned clips from the podcast could be taken out of context and attached “to whatever story and narrative you want to attach it to.”
Check out the clip below and watch the episode at the end of the page.
Joe Budden says he edited out his take on the Diddy & Cassie lawsuit for multiple reasons
– Diddy listens to his podcast – Legal protection, avoided clips – incase Diddy actually blows up people's carspic.twitter.com/PRuSvHRcFk
Cassie Ventura sued Diddy in a Manhattan federal court last week (November 16), accusing him of rape and domestic abuse. The Bad Boy Records founder denied the allegations, and the former couple settled less than 24 hours later.
Interscope Records co-founder Jimmy Iovine is facing a lawsuit from a woman alleging he sexually abused her and forcibly touched her.
Attorneys for a woman identified as Jane Doe filed a summons in New York Wednesday (November 22), per Rolling Stone. She accused Iovine of “multiple instances of sexual abuse and forcible touching of her.” The allegations include “a specific incident of sexual misconduct” that occurred in New York City in August 2007.
In addition, the plaintiff alleges that she faced sexual harassment and retaliation. The summons offers little additional information, but a lawsuit is reportedly to follow by the end of the year. The woman is seeking an unspecified amount of damages.
The same lawyers who represented Cassie in her (quickly settled) lawsuit against Diddy are suing Interscope Records co-founder Jimmy Iovine for sexual harassment and abuse.
Doug Wigdor's firm filed this notice of summons in New York state court today. No complaint yet. pic.twitter.com/nt6EYRmHvW
A spokesperson for Jimmy Iovine told Rolling Stone that they were “shocked and baffled” by the abuse allegations. “This inquiry is the first we’ve heard of this matter,” they added. “No one has ever made a claim like this against Jimmy Iovine, nor have we been contacted or made aware of any complaint by anyone, including this unknown plaintiff prior to now.”
The lawsuit was filed under New York’s Adult Survivors Act. The act allows adult survivors of sexual abuse to file claims against their abusers that would otherwise be barred by the statute of limitations. The one-year window for filing such claims ends Thursday (November 23).
In the last week, multiple lawsuits naming high-profile figures, including Jamie Foxx, Diddy, Bad Boy Records, and its former President Harve Pierre have been filed.
Jamie Foxx is facing a lawsuit from a woman who claimed he sexually assaulted her on a rooftop bar in New York in 2015.
The plaintiff, identified as Jane Doe, claims the alleged incident occurred at Catch NYC, a restaurant in the city, per multiplereports. In her suit, she alleges Foxx “intentionally and without consent used force to offensively touch Plaintiff’s person,” including groping her breasts and under her pants.
The woman claims she and a friend were seated next to Jamie Foxx and the bar owner. At around 1 A.M., her friend asked the actor for a photo, and they took several together.
The Suit Claims Jamie Foxx Complimented The Plaintiff Before Alleged Assault
The plaintiff claims Foxx then began complimenting her, telling her she looked like Gabrielle Union. “Wow, you have that super model body,” she alleged Foxx told her, and “You smell so good.”
According to the suit, Foxx then led her by the arm to a more secluded section of the bar, where he groped her breasts underneath her top. When she tried to step away, she claims Foxx put his hand down her pants and “put his fingers on and in Plaintiff’s v##### and a###.”
The woman claims Foxx stopped when her friend came looking for her. She also claims a security guard witnessed the alleged incident but took no action. The suit alleges that Foxx seemed “intoxicated” at the time of the assault.
The complaint states the plaintiff suffered and continues to suffer “physical and emotional injuries, anxiety, distress, embarrassment and economic harm.” The woman claims she was sore following the alleged assault and had to seek medical treatment. She is seeking an unspecified amount.
The suit also names Bar owner Mark Birnbaum and Catch NYC as defendants.
The lawsuit was filed under New York’s Adult Survivors Act. The act allows adult survivors of sexual abuse to file claims that would otherwise be barred by the statute of limitations. The one-year window for filing such claims ends Thursday (November 23).
In the last week, multiple lawsuits naming high-profile figures, including Jamie Foxx, Diddy, Bad Boy Records, and its former President Harve Pierre have been filed.
Roslynn Alba Cobarrubias, a prominent media entrepreneur, radio DJ, and music promoter has died at the age of 43 in her hometown of Walnut, California. The cause of her death has yet to be determined, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner’s office.
Early in her career Roslynn made a huge impact at the MySpace Music platform, where she helmed the Hip-Hop efforts at the massive, early social media company.
Roslynn was born on March 12, 1980 in Los Angeles and had a deep love for music since her childhood. Despite pursuing studies in political science at UC Irvine, she followed her dream of becoming a DJ and eventually found success as a radio DJ, notably hosting the Hip-Hop show “Third Floor Radio.” She helped launch the careers of Sean Kingston and Adele through her work at MySpace. With AllHipHop, there was a partnership that hosted shows with some of the biggest artists of the day.
Additionally, Cobarrubias promoted Filipino American artists and culture through her work with ABS-CBN and her marketing brand, 1587. She was involved in various community initiatives, including building basketball courts in the Philippines and sponsoring Filipino American heritage nights at sports events. She recently arranged an interview with EZ Mil, a Filipino who is signed to Dr. Dre and Eminem.
Her passing was mourned by many in the Filipino American community, the Hip-Hop community and the general music industry, highlighting her influential role and dedication to her culture and community. Roslynn Alba Cobarrubias is survived by her mother, three sisters, and nieces and nephews, whom she cherished deeply.
AllHipHop extends deep condolences and love to her family and friends.
Rest In Peace to the incomparable @roslynn! I cannot believe you are not with us. We go back to her days at Myspace, where we collaborated with @allhiphopcom on shows. She a real one that was representing Hip-Hop to the fullest. But recently she continued that… 1/2 pic.twitter.com/XY5Au7Mk5p
Chaka Zulu, Ludacris’ longtime manager, has learned his fate in the 2022 shooting death of a 23-year-old college student. According to WSB-TV Atlanta, prosecutors in Fulton County have dropped murder and other charges against him after they determined he acted in self-defense during a fight in the parking lot of his Buckhead restaurant.
Zulu’s attorney, Gabe Banks, issued a statement that was shared by his client via Instagram on Wednesday (November 22). The statement read: Mr. Chaka Zulu, a beloved son of Atlanta, is pleased with the outcome of the thorough investigation conducted by District Attorney Fani Willis and her team of lawyers and investigators. From the beginning of this case, Mr. Zulu was committed to a fair process. He fully believes that after a thoughtful examination of the facts and evidence related to this matter, District Attorney reached and just decision. It is not lost on Mr. Zulu that there was a loss of life under extraordinary circumstances.
“However, it is now time for Mr. Zulu to put this difficult process behind him, and to focus on the support and nurturing of his family. Accordingly, we respectfully request privacy at this time, and that any inquires be directed to the office of Gabe Banks, Esq.”
Chaka Zulu was arrested and charged with murder, aggravated assault, possession of firearm during commission of a felony and simple battery in September 2022, three months after the shooting occurred. Since the beginning of the ordeal, Zulu has maintained he fired in self-defense, as did his attorney. In a statement, Banks pointed out not only did the incident take place at Zulu’s place of business, but also that he was shot in the back during the melee and nearly lost his life.
“In an attempt to save his life, Mr. Zulu lawfully discharged his weapon in self-defense, a weapon that he was licensed to carry,” Banks wrote at the time. “Mr. Zulu fully cooperated with law enforcement officials and their investigation, and voluntarily turned himself in once he learned of the arrest warrants. It is not lost on Mr. Zulu that someone lost his life, but had Mr. Zulu not lawfully defended himself, Mr. Zulu would have been killed that night.”
The fatal shooting took place in June 2022 after several men got into an argument. Multiple shots were fired, striking Zulu, injuring another and killing a third. The deceased was later identified by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office as 23-year-old Artez Benton.
“We have three persons shot at the location,” Lt. Germaine Dearlove explained. “One deceased and two are in hospitals as a result of a dispute in the parking lot.” Chaka Zulu and the other person who was shot both recovered from the injuries sustained after undergoing overnight surgery.
50 Cent continues to poke fun at Diddy after the Bad Boy Records mogul became the epicenter of a bombshell lawsuit involving his ex-girlfriend, R&B singer Cassie Ventura. Ventura accused Diddy of sex trafficking, rape, physical abuse and a litany of other offenses, including blowing up Kid Cudi’s car in a jealous fury. They settled the suit less than 24 hours later.
On Wednesday (November 22), former Bad Boy president Harve Pierre was hit with a sexual assault lawsuit filed by a Jane Doe. The unidentified woman claimed she was groomed by Pierre and sexually assaulted multiple times during his tenure. It didn’t take long for 50 Cent to get wind of the latest troubles for Diddy. In fact, Fif may be considering turning Diddy’s woes into content.
50 Cent, who serves as the executive producer of the top-rated franchises “BMF” and “Power,” made the announcement to his 30 million Instagram followers.
“I Told you they was coming, in 5,4,3,2,1 SMH,” he wrote. “This is a movie (SURVIVING P DIDDY) OR (DIDDY, DO IT OR NOT) executive produced by Curtis 50 Cent Jackson coming soon !”
50 Cent was referring to a post he made just hours after it was revealed Diddy settled the lawsuit with Cassie Ventura. Upon hearing of the quick settlement, 50 Cent anticipated Diddy would face an avalanche of lawsuits.
“LOL He paid that money real quick, should have done that before the sharks saw the blood in the water and here they come in 5,4,3,2,1 every woman he put his hand on,” 50 predicted.
Although Diddy wasn’t named in the lawsuit against Harve Pierre, Bad Boy Entertainment, Bad Boy Records and Combs Enterprises are named co-defendants. A company rep for Bad Boy said they were investigating the latest lawsuit.
“We have recently become aware of a lawsuit filed in New York by a former employee,” the spokesperson said. “The allegations are from many years ago that were never brought to the attention of the company. Neither the plaintiff nor the executive are current employees of the company. We are now investigating the allegations, and our top priority is the safety and well-being of our employees.”
Kanye West has settled a lawsuit with a disgruntled ex-employee.
According to legal documents, the “Stronger” rapper has negotiated a settlement with former Yeezy employee Taliah Leslie following a lengthy court dispute.
The details of the settlement have not been publicly disclosed.
In 2021, Leslie accused Kanye West and executives at his fashion brand of allegedly violating labor laws in California related to employee classification and benefits.
She claimed that brand bosses misclassified its employees as independent contractors, thereby depriving them of wages and benefits.
According to reports, the employee accused Kanye West of not paying for compulsory trips to and from locations such as Wyoming and France.
She also claimed he failed to reimburse her phone and Internet bills and other travel expenses despite them being needed to carry out her job.
Yeezy is the name of West’s clothing and footwear business. He launched his Yeezy footwear line with Nike in 2006 before taking it to Adidas in 2013.
In October 2022, Adidas severed ties with West and called off their Yeezy fashion partnership after he made antisemitic comments on social media and in interviews.
Executives at the sports giant are still in the process of selling off its remaining Yeezy stock.
Cardi B threatened to sue after seeing a scam advertisement featuring an AI-generated version of her voice. The Atlantic Records rapper reacted to the video via social media on Wednesday (November 22).
“AI is crazy smh….another lawsuit that fell right on my lap…I love easy money,” she wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter).
The AI Cardi B ad pitched viewers with a supposed way to collect $1,600 “for free” from the government. The sponsored video was posted by USA Wellness Wave, which has virtually no online presence besides a Facebook account.
AI is crazy smh….another lawsuit that fell right on my lap…I love easy money 💴 https://t.co/nMqFQpqHAv
Cardi B has shown no hesitation in protecting her reputation through litigation. She famously sued vlogger Tasha K for defamation, invasion of privacy and intentional infliction of emotional distress in 2019.
A jury sided with the diamond-selling rapper, awarding her roughly $4 million in 2022. Cardi B is still trying to collect her money from Tasha K. Last month, a judge ruled Tasha K had to pay the judgment even though she filed for bankruptcy.
Earlier this month, Cardi B debunked speculation about her taking a hiatus from music as fans wait for her sophomore album. The rumor spread after she said fans might not see her “for a long time” on Instagram Live.
“I never said I was taking a hiatus,” she clarified. “I’m just continuing with my social media break like I have been for the last few weeks.. not sure why that’s causing such a ruckus. BG ya know where to catch me!”
Cardi B’s latest single “Bongos,” a collaboration with Megan Thee Stallion, dropped in September. The song peaked at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Florida rapper Key Vhani claimed she killed her manager in self-defense following an October altercation with him and another man in Miami. NBC Miami obtained disturbing footage, which showed the 27-year-old woman shooting her manager moments before she was hit by a car driven by the other man involved in the deadly incident.
Police arrested Key Vhani, whose real name is Kevhani Hicks, for second-degree murder in October. She was released on bond and issued a statement about her case on Monday (November 20).
“I’m finally home after experiencing something so traumatic and life-changing,” she wrote on Instagram. “I have three broken ribs and bruises all over so I’m currently healing and getting rest. I just want to personally thank everyone who supports me and knows that I’m not the horrible person some are claiming that I am. I can’t comment on the case at all, but I pray you all continue to stand by me and support me through this tragic time. I love you all to the moon and back!”
Hicks, who was hospitalized for injuries suffered in the altercation, told police she feared for her life after an argument with her manager turned into a physical confrontation. Her public defender said it was a “clear case of self-defense.” Her manager was shot multiple times and died at a local hospital.
A Florida judge set Hicks’ bond at $50,000. She will remain on house arrest as she awaits trial.
Diddy’s Bad Boy Records label and one of his former executives are reportedly facing a newly filed sexual assault lawsuit. The suit comes less than a week after Diddy settled a lawsuit with ex-girlfriend/R&B singer Cassie Ventura.
According to Rolling Stone, an anonymous ex-assistant of former Bad Boy president Harve Pierre has accused him of grooming and sexually assaulting her. Pierre went to college with Diddy at Howard University and worked at Bad Boy in the early ’90s for a stint. After leaving for a few years, he eventually returned to Bad Boy, where he served as president until 2017.
A former president of Bad Boy Entertainment has been sued for sexual assault by his ex-assistant, while the company itself was also sued for negligence.
The court docs allege Pierre “used his position of authority as [her] boss to groom, exploit, and sexually assault her.” The complaint, which was filed in New York County Supreme Courts by a “Jane Doe,” also alleges Pierre perpetrated crimes against her “on multiple occasions in New York City and other locations throughout the country.”
The plaintiff alleges between the years of 2016 and 2017 Pierre sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions, which caused the anonymous assistant to suffer physical, emotional and psychological injuries, pain and suffering.
“Pierre used his position of authority as plaintiff’s boss to groom, exploit, and sexually assault her,” the filing alleges. “Pierre engaged in a year-long pattern of grooming plaintiff, leading to sexual harassment of plaintiff, and sexual assault.”
Bad Boy Entertainment, Bad Boy Records and Combs Enterprises are named as co-defendants in the lawsuit. A spokesperson for Bad Boy provided a statement saying the company was in the process of investigating the claims internally.
“We have recently become aware of a lawsuit filed in New York by a former employee,” the spokesperson said. “The allegations are from many years ago that were never brought to the attention of the company. Neither the plaintiff nor the executive are current employees of the company. We are now investigating the allegations, and our top priority is the safety and well-being of our employees.”
The lawsuit against Pierre and Bad Boy was filed just before the the Adult Survivors Act expires on November 24. The act provides a one-year window for New York residents to file civil lawsuits alleging sexual abuse even after the statute of limitations had passed.
A New York judge dismissed a class action lawsuit brought by Black Sheep against Universal Music Group. According to court documents obtained by Reuters, Judge Jennifer Rochon determined the statute of limitations for Black Sheep’s claims had passed in a ruling on Monday (November 20).
Black Sheep members Dres and Mista Lawnge sued UMG for breach of contract, breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, and unjust enrichment. The duo claimed the label owed them and other artists roughly $750 million in unpaid royalties stemming from UMG’s deal with Spotify. But Judge Rochon said the two waited too long to bring their complaint.
“Under New York law, Plaintiffs must bring their claims for breach of contract and breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing within six years of the alleged breach,” the judge wrote. “Plaintiffs need not be aware of the breach to start the statute-of-limitations period.”
She continued, “Plaintiffs’ claims as to non-payment for a share of UMG’s Spotify stock are untimely. By Plaintiffs’ own admission, UMG’s first alleged breach of the contract occurred in or around 2008 when it failed to account for the value of its Spotify stock in its semiannual royalty statements. Plaintiffs’ claims accrued 15 years ago. Even accepting Plaintiffs’ alternative argument that UMG breached the contract again after Spotify’s IPO in 2018, Plaintiffs’ failure to bring those claims within two years of UMG’s alleged breach still renders them untimely.”
Judge Rochon’s ruling also diminished the merits of Black Sheep’s lawsuit. The judge said even if the claims were timely, “they would still fail as a matter of law.”
Dres of Black Sheep saw his lawsuit get dismissed the same week as the premiere of his new documentaryThe Choice Is Yours. The film is available to stream on Paramount Plus.
A Palm Beach County Commission candidate’s decision to honor Kodak Black became a point of contention in a Florida election race. Democratic candidate Richard Ryles criticized his opponent, Florida State Senator Bobby Powell, for supporting the controversial rapper.
Powell presented Black, whose government name is Bill Kapri, with a proclamation recognizing the Capitol Records artist’s charitable acts on November 11. Ryles believed it was inappropriate due to Black’s criminal history, which included allegations of sexual assault.
“As an African-American man, I do want to see a redeemed Bill Kapri in his future dealings,” Ryles told the Palm Beach Post. “Nevertheless, his recent spate of arrests indicate that he has yet to find his moral North Star and may well be spinning out of control due to drug use. I believe that Senator Powell could have used the opportunity of meeting Mr. Kapri as a teaching moment by utilizing his experience as an upstanding African-American male and father to provide guidance rather than unwarranted accolades.”
Ryles questioned Powell’s judgment, noting how Black remained fond of Donald Trump after the former president pardoned the rapper. Ryles thought Powell, a fellow Democrat, hurt their political party by celebrating someone who might make Trump appealing to young voters.
Powell defended his decision to honor Black. The PBC commission candidate claimed Ryles was trying to diminish the rapper’s charitable acts.
“We presented a proclamation to Kodak Black at Florida Atlantic University, and at that event he donated $10,000 to a VFW group,” Powell told the Palm Beach Post. “We acknowledged him for paying the rent of 28 families who were facing eviction from Merry Place in WPB. We acknowledged the 100 AC units that he secured for families facing sweltering heat in the summer at the Golden Acres Apartments and the more than $100,000 in charitable donations that he has given back to the community, including his sponsorship of charity basketball games such as the one last year at Dwyer High School. Furthermore, Kodak Black led the Florida Atlantic University Owls football team onto the field that very same day.”
He added, “By Mr. Ryles’ elitist logic, a man is to be strictly judged by a single act, not the totality of his life. There is no forgiveness, no second chances, no redemption, just ongoing punishment, the kind that brought us an overpopulation of Black men in prison with no future and no hope.”
Earlier this month, Black’s lawyer filed a motion to dismiss his 2022 drug case. Police allegedly found Oxycodone pills when they arrested Black last year, but defense attorney Bradford Cohen insisted the pills were Tylenol.
Kanye West reportedly ran into his former physical trainer Harley Pasternak at a hotel in Dubai this week. As reported by TMZ, the two crossed paths at Atlantis the Royal Dubai on Monday night (November 20). Harley was at the concierge desk making a dinner reservation when the run-in occurred. West apparently tried to hug Pasternak, but he rebuffed his attempt at an embrace and instead, asked the concierge to call security.
Pasternak appeared uncomfortable and anxious to get as far away from West as possible. Sources close to West’s camp said the controversial artist felt like Pasternak was following him around Dubai and, at one point, pulled out his phone to start recording him. Security did show up, but West and his entourage had already left the property.
SLOPPY JOB, MOSSAD
EXCLUSIVE: Kanye West believes ex personal trainer Harley Pasternak is FOLLOWING him in Dubai – one year after rapper leaked alleged texts from ‘creepy’ former employee threatening to get him ‘institutionalized again’ | Daily Mail Online pic.twitter.com/vJ6akvJc7m
Pasternak was working with Kanye West when he had his infamous mental health crisis in 2016. Pasternak was the one who called the police and paramedics during West’s meltdown, telling authorities he was “acting erratically.” The call eventually led to West’s trip to the University of California Los Angeles Medical Center for a mental evaluation.
West has spoken on Pasternak before and said he was secretly serving as an intelligence agent in the Canadian military.
Kanye West talks about his ex-trainer, Harley Pasternak, secretly being an Intelligence Agent in the Canadian Military. He apparently worked on CyOps.
The audio of emergency responders tending to West was released shortly after his hospitalization. In the minute clip, dispatchers can be heard calling the incident a “psychiatric emergency.” Interestingly enough, West was admitted on November 21, 2016—nearly the same day seven years later that West and Pasternak had the awkward interaction.
The perceived “unraveling” of Kanye West appeared to start after his mother, Donda West, died in 2007. He’s sparked seemingly endless controversy over the last couple of years with his support of Donald Trump, antisemitic rants and social media attacks on his ex-wife Kim Kardashian and her former boyfriend Pete Davidson.
As for why West is in Dubai, he’s reportedly there spending time with his family for Thanksgiving. Pasternak, meanwhile, owns several gyms in Dubai and is often there on business.
Megan Thee Stallion has clearly struck back at her ex-boyfriend Pardison Fontaine and his claim that she had liposuction to create her physique. Cracks in their relationship became public with Megan’s song “Cobra,” where she seemingly accused Fontaine of cheating.
The couple’s three-year love affair seemingly crumbled when Pardi retorted in “THEE PERSON,” alleging Megan Thee Stallion’s fitness images weren’t the result of hard work but the result of liposuction, amongst other insults.
Megan Thee Stallion’s gym photo, which showcases the “Hot Girl’s Coach’s” toned figure to her 31 million followers, is a visual rebuttal to Paridson Fontaine’s allegations.
Fans have rallied around Megan Thee Stallion, seeing the photo as evidence of her genuine efforts and dedication to fitness, contrary to Pardi Fontaine’s accusations.
“Looks like hard work and good genes to me! Tuh!! Keep killing em,” Claudi Jordan wrote.
“You can tell that is hard work because everything is smaller and Toned! her arms, her back, her thighs, her legs, Lipo cant do all of that,” another one of the Hotties wrote.
“He said lipo then started posting gym pics. Tell Pardi you was in the gym before he even got in the picture. HOTTIE BOOT CAMP! Hot girl coach?” another one of Megan’s fans fumed.
“As a registered nurse who has worked in the operating room i know a post op lipo body when i see one .. and this ain’t one,” reasoned another one of Megan’s fans.
So far, Megan Thee Stallion hasn’t responded to Pardi Fontaine’s diss track, which will be featured on his upcoming release Ex T8pe. The project is scheduled for release on December 12. Until then, listen to “THEE PERSON” below.
Let’s talk about hip-hop, a music genre that emerged in the United States in the 1970s. Notable for its distinct features, hip-hop is marked by an emphasis on rhythm and bass, alongside the incorporation of sampled sounds, beats, and rap.
1970s: Where It All Began
Hip-hop started in the Bronx, NYC, in the early 1970s. It began when the city was facing problems like factories closing down, political issues, and big changes in how money worked. At that time, things were tough in New York City. Many businesses shut down, people lost jobs, and there wasn’t much fun stuff to do. So, young people in the city turned to the streets to find a way to express themselves.
Empty buildings and parking lots became the places where hip-hop took its first steps. People threw block parties there, creating the foundation for hip-hop culture. DJs and MCs, who got inspired by Jamaican music, brought their music to the streets using mobile “Sound Systems.” Cardboard pieces turned into dance floors for break dancers, and walls became canvases for graffiti artists.
Even though there was a lot of anger and tough times, hip-hop brought a new energy. It became a way for people to be creative and deal with problems like violence. Instead of being held back by tough situations and differences between races, hip-hop turned those challenges into a way for people to connect and express themselves as a community. It wasn’t just a response to problems; it became a powerful force for bringing people together and expressing resilience in tough times.
1985-1995: The Golden Era of Hip-Hop
This period marked a global embrace of hip-hop tracks, introducing iconic musical legends like:
Tupac Shakur
Snoop Dogg
The Notorious B.I.G.
Public Enemy
The latter half of the 1980s and the early 1990s saw an unprecedented rise in admiration for hip-hop, captivating audiences worldwide and solidifying the genre’s influence on the musical landscape.
1995-2000: The Commercialization of Hip-Hop
This era marked the emergence of Nelly, Timbaland, Puff Daddy, Jay-Z, and Eminem.
In 1995, the Grammys introduced a new award for the best rap album. Naughty by Nature clinched the inaugural win. Subsequently, the Fugees, Puff Daddy, and Jay-Z joined the roster of winners before the decade concluded.
As the new millennium dawned, hip-hop asserted its dominance on global music charts, with artists exploring fresh sub-genres and pushing the boundaries of their tracks even further.
2005 – Present: Contemporary Hip-Hop
In the present day, hip-hop has undergone yet another metamorphosis, making it almost unrecognizable compared to its origins in the seventies. Figures such as Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, Cardi B, and 21 Savage stand out as prominent artists within the contemporary hip-hop scene:
Artist
Notable Achievements
Signature Style
Kendrick Lamar
Pulitzer Prize for Music (2018), 17 Grammy Awards
Thought-provoking lyrics, jazz-influenced production
Travis Scott
Billboard Music Award (Top Streaming Songs Artist, 2019), 8 Grammy Awards
Atmospheric production, auto-tuned vocals
Cardi B
Grammy Award for Best Rap Album (2019), first lead artist to top the Billboard Global 200
Hip-hop has had a significant impact on culture. Today, its influence can be seen in fashion, politics, language, sports, and even gaming.
Hip-hop has had some influence on casino culture. Some Canadian online casino sites have adopted hip-hop themes in their overall branding and design. This includes using hip-hop-inspired graphics, imagery, and colour schemes to create a vibrant and engaging gaming environment. These themes appeal to a younger and more diverse demographic.
The fashion landscape, in particular, has been reshaped by hip-hop, with staples like oversized shirts, baggy pants, and athletic wear getting into mainstream fashion. Also, the influence of hip-hop on fashion extends beyond streetwear to sports apparel. Some athletes and teams embrace the style and ethos of the genre – the AS Roma kit, for example, has captured the imagination of football fans worldwide.
Besides fashion, hip-hop has introduced a lexicon that has become ingrained in everyday language. Terms like “bling” and “yo” have become commonplace expressions.
Hip-hop has also played a pivotal role in addressing social and political issues. Notable artists like Jay-Z and Kanye West use their platforms to voice opinions on political matters and, in some instances, even engage in political endeavours themselves.
Complexities and Controversies
Hip-hop has undeniably become a global phenomenon with a profound impact on society. Beyond its rhythmic beats and poetic lyrics, hip-hop has been a powerful force shaping cultural norms, politics, and the socio-economic landscape. However, its influence is not without complexities and controversies:
Aspect
Description
Cultural expression
Hip-hop serves as a platform for marginalized voices, but debates arise over the potential reinforcement of stereotypes and the appropriation of culture.
Social activism
While hip-hop has been a catalyst for social change, questions arise about the sincerity of activism within the industry and its impact on systemic issues.
Consumerism
The promotion of materialism in hip-hop lyrics and imagery raises concerns about its role in perpetuating consumerist values and influencing youth culture.
Violence and lyrics
Controversies surround the portrayal of violence in hip-hop lyrics, with discussions on whether it reflects reality, perpetuates harm, or serves as a form of artistic expression.
Gender dynamics
The genre grapples with gender inequalities, prompting discussions on the objectification of women, toxic masculinity, and the need for more diverse representation.
Final Thoughts
The journey of hip-hop music spans a remarkable and multifaceted history, captivating audiences for over five decades. From its humble beginnings to its current prominence, the genre has evolved, leaving an indelible mark on cultural narratives worldwide. As we reflect on its dynamic trajectory, it becomes evident that hip-hop’s enduring strength lies in its ability to adapt, innovate, and speak to the ever-changing socio-cultural landscape.
The resilience of this musical form is mirrored in the unwavering passion of both artists and audiences. As we celebrate its rich heritage, it’s clear that hip-hop is not just a genre but a cultural force that continues to shape and redefine itself. The exploration of resonant thematic inspirations remains a driving force, ensuring that the future of hip-hop holds promise for even more groundbreaking expressions.
André 3000 released an entirely instrumental album called New Blue Sun on Friday (November 17), which sent social media into a spiral. Some were elated Three Stacks was on this new creative journey, while others were highly disappointed not to hear a single bar come out of his mouth. Producers, however, saw the silver lining. Aftermath Entertainment affiliate Dem Jointz was one of them.
On Monday (November 20), he shared a pair of videos to Instagram showing off his beatmaking skills using André 3000’s woodwind sounds. He plucked samples from “I swear, I Really Wanted To Make A Rap Album, but This Is Literally Where The Wind Blew Me This Time” and “The Slang Word P(*)ssy Rolls Off The Tongue with Far Better Ease Than The Proper Word V#####. Would You Agree?” He added in the caption, “A or B? I had to do it.”
Snoop Dogg was among the first to jump in the comment section and write, “Send me this beat asap.” Fellow producers DJ Pooh and Statik Selektah also tossed in their two cents. Several fans encouraged Dem Jointz to get Snoop Dogg and Three Stacks on the beats.
Pete Rock also praised André 3000’s latest endeavor. As he wrote in a since-deleted Instagram post, “Now im a producer, and what i hear on this album is amazing. Some of y’all ears been lost but as a producer what i hear? Sounds INCREDIBLE!!! Sometimes embracing a different side of a person isn’t a bad thing. In this business when you been doing the same thing forever you can get tired of it and wanna go left, nothing wrong with that. We all need that support sometimes.
“We had jazz musicians put albums out like this, why not except when 3 stacks do it? I mean i hear amazing samples on this album. BEATS!!! I listen to his last raps on that kanye joint all the time. One of the souths greatest MC’s. But i copped this album and im listening to it and you know what? I like it do far. Congratulations on this new journey and i believe real musicians will like this.”
But Outkast fans like Leslie Jones were outraged. During an episode of The Daily Show, upon learning André wouldn’t be rapping on his debut solo project.
Co-host Jordan Klepper began the segment saying, “You know, this is a beautiful, fascinating experiment in—” Jones screamed, “No! No it’s not!” She continued, “I’ve got to say something. This man is one of the greatest rappers of all time. We have been waiting 17 years for this m########### to release a new album. And it’s all flute? I’m going to kill somebody. This is how you know white people are winning. Y’all done turned André 3000 into Jethro Tull!”
Klepper disagreed, calling it a “brave” move by André 3000. Jones fired back, “Yeah it’s brave. ‘Cause if you play that s### in the hood, you gon’ get your a## beat!”
Lauryn Hill has canceled the remaining dates on the 25th anniversary tour of her only solo album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Hill made the announcement via Instagram on Tuesday night (November 21), blaming the cancelations on her strained vocal cords. She also talked about how rewarding it’s been to reunite with her fellow Fugees, Pras and Wyclef Jean.
“I’d like to start this off by saying how much I’ve enjoyed being on the road, and how much I appreciate all of the fans who have come out to celebrate this incredible milestone anniversary and history making reunion with us,” she wrote in the caption. “Being able to tour this album to sold out crowds after 25 years has been an emotional experience! I’ve loved sharing the stage again with Wyclef and Pras. The Return of the Fugees has been powerful and amazing—those who’ve witnessed it can testify.
The tour itself reminds us the artists, and the audiences alike of earlier, perhaps less complicated times when ‘It could all be so simple…’ or ‘Ready Or Not, here I come!’ were on repeat on the airwaves. Simply put, classic. Classic music, classic performances with audiences who love those classics has been nothing but…wait for it…EPIC. (I almost said classic again!) As many of you may know, I’ve been battling serious vocal strain for the past month. 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.”
Lauryn Hill did say she would still perform in Philly over the weekend, noting it was close to New Jersey and “basically hometown.” But that will be the final show in 2023. Hill said she has plans to reschedule the canceled dates early next year. She also promised to ad more dates due to “overwhelming demand.”
Hill performed in Los Angeles on November 4 and showed up a bit late but wasn’t afraid to address her tardiness. In a clip making the rounds online, Hill spoke passionately about why her fans should be grateful she shows up at all.
“I hear, ‘She’s late. She’s late a lot,’” she said. “Yo, you’re lucky I make it on this stage every night. I don’t do it because they let me. I do it because I stand here in the name of God. God is the one who allows me to do it, who surrounded me with family and community when there was no support, when the album sold so many records and nobody showed up and said, ‘Hey, would you like to make another one?’ So I went around the world and played the same album over and over and over and over again. Because we’re survivors. We’re not just the survivors, we’re the thrivers.”
Hill’s comments didn’t sit well with many of her fans, and she eventually addressed the chatter, posting the entire speech she gave prior to the “tardiness” remarks. She wrote in the caption, “Context is key.” Watch it below.
Although the immediate shock has worn off by now, Cassie Ventura’s bombshell lawsuit against Diddy continues to have consequences. In court docs filed in a Manhattan federal court on November 16, Diddy’s ex alleged rape and years of physical abuse at the hands of the Bad Boy Records mogul, and the former couple settled out of court less than 24 hours later. Much like DaBaby’s fallout from his homophobic comments at Rolling Loud Miami in 2021, companies are beginning to distance themselves from Diddy—even his own.
Shortly after the suit was settled, Atlanta’s Agenda Studios canceled an event promoting Diddy’s tequila brand, DELEÓN. As the company explained on Instagram, “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the unfortunate cancellation of Sunday’s highly anticipated DELEÓN Day Party. Recent, serious allegations against DELEÓN Tequila owner, Sean “Puff” Combs,” have compelled us to take immediate action. In light of these circumstances, we believe it is in the best interest of our community to regrettably cancel the event. We understand the disappointment this may bring, but we remain committed to the values of integrity and accountability.”
The caption read: “Important Announcement. Due to recent allegations against Deleon owner Sean “Puff” Combs, we regret to inform you that Sunday’s Deleon Day Party is canceled, but stay tuned for an exciting update on Tuesday, November 21st – we’re working on something special for our community.”
Diddy is also starting to feel the wrath at REVOLT, a company he founded in 2012. On Monday (November 20), journalist/marketing specialist Dawn Montgomery announced she would no longer be part of the network’s Monuments to Me podcast.
“FYI: I won’t be signing on to do the 3rd season of @revolttv’s Monuments To Me podcast,” she tweeted on Monday (November 20). “I am a [sexual assault] survivor & I cannot be a part of a show that’s supposed to uplift black women while @Diddy leads the company. Believe Black women.”
FYI: I won’t be signing on to do the 3rd season of @revolttv’s “Monuments To Me” podcast. I am a SA survivor & I cannot be a part of a show that’s supposed to uplift black women while @Diddy leads the company.
Believe Black women 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/KTYHrFYlK5
Only time will tell what other consequences Diddy will face. Fans were shocked Ventura settled so quickly. But as she explained at the time, “I have decided to resolve this matter amicably on terms that I have some level of control.” Diddy responded to the now-closed case, saying, “We have decided to resolve this matter amicably. I wish Cassie and her family all the best. Love.”
Diddy was spotted in the days after they reached their settlement looking solemn and stressed, but many are accusing them of being staged.
