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EXCLUSIVE: “Missing” Kanye West Finally Served By Law Firm Trying To Dump Him As A Client

After months of trying, New York City-based law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP has finally served Kanye West. According to court documents obtained by AllHipHop, Ye’s newly acquired attorney confirmed his client received the necessary paperwork to sever their relationship on February 1.

“On January 18, 2023, an attorney based in California contacted my firm advising that he would be representing ‘Ye on some of his legal matters,'” Greenberg Traurig attorney Nina D. Boyajian wrote in the docs. “During the course of several emails and a phone call with this attorney, I requested that he coordinate personal service of the Order on Ye. On February 1, 2023, the attorney referenced above emailed me the executed Certificate of Service attached hereto as Exhibit A. I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the foregoing is true and correct.” 

Greenberg Traurig has gone to great lengths to locate Kanye West—or at least tried. Last month, they asked a judge if they could run an ad in several Los Angeles newspapers. Soon after, United States District Judge Analisa Torres found Greenberg Traurig failed to make “diligent efforts” to locate him. Consequently, Torres denied Greenberg Traurig’s request. Instead, Torres suggested they hire a private investigator to determine Kanye West’s whereabouts. They did receive an extension, which clearly worked in their favor.

Torres granted Greenberg Traurig’s motion to withdraw as West’s counsel on November 30, 2022. The firm was originally representing Kanye West in his legal battle against Ultra International Music Publishing.

Dr. Dre, Missy Elliott, Lil Wayne & Sylvia Rhone Honored With Global Impact Award at 2023 Pre-Grammys Black Music Collective Event 

The Recording Academy’s Black Music Collective kicked off the 2023 Grammy Awards weekend by honoring Dr. Dre, Lil Wayne, Missy Elliott, and Epic Records CEO Sylvia Rhone. 

The four Hip-Hop icons received the prestigious Recording Academy Global Impact Award at the Hollywood Palladium on Thursday night (February 2). 

“I don’t get honored,” Lil Wayne said according to Billboard after taking to the stage following an intro from DJ Khaled and video messages from Drake and Deion Sanders. Swizz Beatz, 2 Chainz, and Tyga performed some of the New Orleans rapper’s hits.  

“I’d like to thank Antonia Johnson for reasoning with me and my mom, and my life. I’d like to thank every single one of my kids and every single one of their mothers,” Weezy said

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Dr. Dre reflected on his humble beginnings when he aspired to make enough to “buy a decent pair of shoes” for school. He also shed light on why he works so well with others, producing iconic collabs. 

Tributes came from Snoop Dogg, Kurupt and Ty Dolla Sign, who performed hits, including a rendition of “Ain’t No Fun (If the Homies Can’t Have None).”

Meanwhile, Missy Elliott was introduced by Ciara and Mona Scott-Young, with the former hailing her as “the true definition of a legend, an icon, an ultimate rockstar” and the latter praising Missy for changing “the way we experience music.” 

“This will never get old to me. I’ve won a lot of awards and I feel the same way,” Missy said during her tearful acceptance speech. “People don’t understand that this is a Global Impact Award. It’s not just neighborhood, it’s global. So it hits different when you stand up here, knowing that when you get something like this, you gotta know that you’ve been through a lot.” 

The Virginia native also thanked fellow Global Impact Award recipient Epic Records CEO Sylvia Rhone.  

“She saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself,” the four-time Grammy winner said of Rhone, who launched Missy’s career as the former executive of Elektra Records. 

Chloe Bailey, Ciara, and Tweet paid homage with performances of Missy’s hits, including Aaliyah’s “One In a Million,” a song Elliott produced with Timbaland.  

Swizz Beatz praised “Queen” “Sylvia Rhone the Great” and instructed the audience to honor her with a standing ovation.  

“It’s been a lot of years for me in hip-hop, and it’s even more special to me amongst this elite group of artists with Dr. Dre, Missy Elliott, Lil Wayne, each of whom I’ve had the privilege of working with throughout my career,” the trailblazing executive said. Rhone made history in 1994 as chairman and CEO of Elektra Entertainment Group. The promotion made her the only African-American at the time and the first-ever woman to hold the titles. 

Rhone also celebrated the impact of Hip-Hop culture ahead of the 50th anniversary. 

“Rising from the embers of the Civil Rights Movement, hip-hop emerged as a revolutionary art form,” she said. “What was once thought to be a momentary effect is now embedded in the fabrics of our daily lives, from fashion and shoes to film to fine art to television to technology and beyond. We have made history. We have changed lives. We are mighty. And we are worldwide.”

YG & Kamaiyah Squash 4Hunnid Beef During Oakland Concert

YG and Kamaiyah have officially made peace. During YG’s Red Cup Tour stop in Oakland on Wednesday (January 31), the Compton rapper surprised fans with an appearance from Kamaiyah, who left 4Hunnid in 2020 after a disagreement about her future with the label.

“I swear to God, I don’t know what they know, I don’t know what they heard about—on the blogs they read, I don’t know nothing,” YG told her. “But I love you. Come give me a hug.”

Kamaiyah responded: “I love you too.”

Kamaiyah’s early career was plagued by major label issues and she admittedly grew frustrated with how Interscope Records/4Hunnid was handling her. In a 2020 interview, Kamaiyah explained what led to the dispute with YG.

“I don’t put Joie Manda [VP at Interscope] at fault,” she said. “It wasn’t all on Interscope and I understand that now that I’m a business woman. He has the YG factor—so, if he’s not a 100 percent behind it, they’re not going to push it. And that’s why I encourage anybody, if you’re going to sign for an artist, make sure they’re a business person and in a position to be focused on that. Because if they’re focused on their own career, they will never be focused on yours. They’re chasing their own dreams.”

When asked if she and YG were still talking, she admitted, “I haven’t spoken with him. I don’t want to speak to him. I have no desire until he apologizes. I just expressed how my brother died in the beginning of my career, right? I felt like it was all these things that were occurring and instead of him advocating for me and pushing for me to make it, it seemed like it was the complete opposite.

“Being a woman, you would think he would be like, “Alright, she gotta make it. I’m watching her go through this. I’m going to make sure she becomes what she’s supposed to be.’”

With that in the rearview, maybe fans can look forward to another collaboration in the spirit of 2016’s “F### It Up” in the near future.

Xzibit’s Ex Claims He Hasn’t Seen Their Son In Months; Seeks More Child Support

Xzibit’s ex Krista Joiner accused him of ignoring their son as she seeks an increase in child support payments.

According to Radar Online, Joiner said it’s been several months since her son Gatlyn saw his father. She claimed Xzibit spurned their child during the holiday season.

“I believe the last time he actually saw Gatlyn was around [Xzibit’s] own birthday in September 2022,” Joiner wrote in a court document. “Gatlyn called [Xzibit] on Christmas and [the rapper] refused to answer or call him back. Our son is devastated. “

Joiner requested more financial support from Xzibit. A judge previously ordered him to pay $6,000 per month. Joiner is now asking for $14,000 per month.

Xzibit’s ex noted the $6,000 was based on him making $25,000 per month. Joiner believed she deserved more money after the former Pimp My Ride host’s tax returns revealed he earned $45,000 per month.

Joiner also accused Xzibit of failing to pay the full amount of their son’s tuition. She criticized him for not paying while he allegedly flaunted his rich lifestyle.

Last year, Xzibit asked a judge to make Joiner undergo a vocational evaluation with a court-appointed official. He wanted her to get a job, but she argued he agreed to provide her with lifelong support.

Joiner filed for divorce in 2021.

Gillie Speaks With J Prince In Exclusive Sit Down

Philadelphia rapper Gillie Da King and Wallo267 of Million Dollaz Worth of Game has secured an interview with J Prince set to debut on Sunday, Feb. 5.

The podcast host shares how reluctant he was to do the interview with the Houston music executive and shot caller because of the recent death of Takeoff, Migos member, a murder that broke the hearts of his many fans, friends, and family. But the founder of Rap-A-Lot said he spoke to Quality Control owner P and said the two came to an understanding.

Gillie said in a clip on Instagram to promote the sure-to-be controversial episode, “You know we were a little reluctant to do the interview because somebody lost their life,” adding “it was a sensitive situation.”

The former Major Figgas breakout star shared that the two talked and J Prince explained there has been communication between camps to move forward.

“We talked,” Gillie said. “You alerted me that you had sat down with you know P from QC, and you know everybody saw things eye to eye. It was like ‘OK, well cool. As long as you see eye-to-eye with the people that’s  most close to him [Takeoff], and y’all got everything figured out, then OK.’”

The co-producer and co-host of one of the hottest podcasts out said he allowed J Prince to “speak” his “truth” on the show because both sides seem to be “on the same accord.”

“I want to echo everything that was said,” J Prince says in the video clip. “You know, we would like to extend and send our condolences definitely to Takeoff’s mother … I put her at the top of the list because it’s an unnatural thing to lose your kid.”

As reported by AllHipHop.com, Takeoff was shot and killed in Houston on November 1 at the age of 28 by someone said to be associated with J Prince.

J Prince commented on the death days later on an Instagram post on Thursday, Nov. 3.

He started off his remark with condolences from his family to Takeoff’s loved ones.

He said, “This shouldn’t have happened. This shouldn’t have ever happened in our city. This shouldn’t have been recorded, and this damn sure shouldn’t be circulating across social media for family, friends, and fans to see. As I write this I’m angry about the lack of love and respect we have for one another as a race which keeps bringing us back to the same tragic place of Black-on-Black killing.”

He continued, “They say Satan is the author of confusion and right now there are a lot of lies and false narratives being spread by media w#####. I consider myself a man that’s quick to listen and slow to speak, therefore to whomever is responsible for putting that bullet in my little nephew’s head, let it be known that you can’t hide behind me, beside me or anywhere near me because I don’t tolerate dumb s###. I speak these words not knowing [whose] bullet is responsible for his death.”

“With that being said, the root of this tragedy is foolish and has to be owned by the fool,” J Prince wrote. “I will sum this up by saying a gun in the hands of any human that close his eyes to shoot and doesn’t have the proper skills of operating that gun is dangerous and the results usually end with innocent people who had nothing to do with the altercation being shot or killed. To the homies in Georgia and around the world that got love for Takeoff like we do know this: let’s change the narrative in our culture by putting [an] end to every argument or disagreement resulting in violence; it’s okay to live and let live to see another day.”

Ludacris Drops A New Freestyle, Saying Rap ‘Startin To Feel Fun Again’

Rapper Ludacris hopped on his social media to remind people why he dominated the early 2000s with his creative lyricism and fire flow.

Fans should have known when he a video popped up on Instagram with his signature flow from his 2001 debut album “Word of Mouf,” that something was up.

He captioned the freestyle video, “Dis $hit Startin to feel FUN AGAIN 🎤”

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“I’m original, indispensable, rhyme zone/ Skydweller Rolex , f#ck a time zone/ My watch feeling like ‘Pac/ It’s all eyez on/ and I’m the truth in the booth/ Get your lies on,” he raps.

The rhyme continues, “Working a## n##ga/ I’m a boss get your mind right/ it gets dark when you step into the limelight/ I’m on the scotch on the rocks with a lime life/ Virgos rule the world get your sign right!”

His celebrity friends jumped in his comments, all in approval of his offering.

Affion Crockett dropped nothing but fire emojis across the boards.

Fellow Virgo, Larenz Tate seemed to love the astrological shout-out.

His Disturbing the Peace sister Shawnna was all down for the pen action, writing, a message true emcees understand in emojis, “💯💪🏽👑✍🏽🔥.”

The last time Ludacris dropped a studio album was the 2015 “Ludaversal” and it seems like he might be open to gracing fans with something new.

E-40 Sprinkles A $100K Bag On Grambling University Alma Mater

Bay Area pioneer and Shakespeare of Rap, E-40, has dropped a massive gift to his alma mater, Grambling State University. According to a release sent out by the school, Earl “E-40” Stevens, a multiplatinum recording artist and entrepreneur who attended the school briefly before his career popped off in the ’90s, dropped $100,000 donation to the Music department to help support the school’s World Famed Tiger Marching Band and to help the school install a new recording studio.

At the Conrad P. Hutchison Performing Arts Building n Friday (February 3), it was announced a the music studio will be named in his honor.

The Mt. Westmore rapper said, “I just wanted to make a contribution to my school, Grambling State University, so I talked to the Doc (GSU Band Director Dr. Nikole Roebuck) and she said, ‘Let’s see what we can do,’ and this was what I came up with,” Stevens said as he unveiled the $100,000 check to the Grambling University Foundation. “I feel good about it, too. I feel really good. God is great.” 

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GSU President Rick Gallot was grateful for the contribution and said, “E-40 has used his success as a recording artist to create an entrepreneurial empire. We are so grateful that he is giving back to his alma mater in such a substantial way. Our current and future students will benefit from his investment in our state-of-the-art student recording studio.”   

Gifts from alum, whether high profile or the regular Tameka, to HBCUs like Grambling U are always appreciated, as these schools designed to educate African Americans are always underfunded.

“Grambling State is incredibly grateful for Mr. Stevens’ appearance at the university and especially his donation,” said GSU Vice President for University Advancement and Innovation Melanie Jones. “It’s gifts like this from our alumni and supporters that are the driving force that keep the university moving forward and creating bigger and better futures for our students.”  

Vanilla Ice Says Madonna Wanted To Marry Him In Early ’90s

Vanilla Ice claims Madonna proposed marriage to him when they were together in the early ’90s.

During an interview with Jenny Hutt of the Just Jenny podcast, the 55-year-old, whose real name is Robert Van Winkle, reflected on his eight-month relationship with Madonna in 1991 and 1992 and divulged her plans for marriage.

“She even proposed to me,” he claimed. “I mean things were going so crazy and fast man. I was just like, ‘What? I thought the guy was supposed to do that. What do you mean? Wait a minute, this is too fast. I’m just getting started here and I’m way too young for this.'”

The “Ice Ice Baby” hitmaker explained he and Madonna first encountered each other in the early ’90s when she attended one of his performances in New York City.

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Despite being thrilled to see her “dancing her a*s off” in the audience, he felt intimidated by her celebrity status. At that time, he was in his early 20s and just gaining fame, while Madonna was in her early 30s.

“I remember she came back to the dressing room and said hello to me, and she kind of gave me the sexy eyes and I was like… ‘I must be way, way mistaken on that,'” he revealed.

Despite global attention, Ice stated he and Madonna had as normal a relationship as possible in private.

However, their relationship took a downturn after the release of Madonna’s explicit coffee table book “Sex” in 1992, which featured risqué images of Ice although he allegedly didn’t consent to his inclusion.

“I was dating her during that time, so I had no idea about a sex book, I’m doing my own thing,” Ice recalled. “I said, ‘How could you do that to me? And why did you do that to me?’ I could’ve sued her. I didn’t want to. I was like, ‘I don’t need that controversy. Let’s just let it go and you go your way, I go mine.'”

Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame CEO Praises Missy Elliott: She’s The Full Package

Missy Elliott is one of the fourteen nominees for this year’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class. The Hip Hop legend has the chance to be the first female rapper to earn the coveted induction.

Greg Harris, CEO of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, spoke with the Audacy internet radio platform about the 2023 nominations. In particular, Harris praised Missy Elliott.

“When we were talking about the nomination and Missy Elliott’s name came up, some of the folks in the committee shared that if they’re putting together a Hip Hop tribute people will frequently ask, ‘Is Missy gonna be on the show?'” said Greg Harris.

He added, “All of the other artists look to her as a leader; she’s an amazing songwriter, amazing performer, and she also produces her own stuff. She’s the full package, and it would be fitting if she’s the first female Hip Hop artist to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.”

4-Time Grammy Winner Missy Elliott Has A Four-Decade Career In Entertainment

Missy Elliott first broke into the music business as a member of the 1990s-era R&B girl group Sista. She eventually worked as a songwriter for established acts such as Jodeci, Whitney Houston, Raven-Symoné, Total, 702, Destiny’s Child, and Aaliyah.

In 1997, Missy Elliott released her debut solo album Supa Dupa Fly. The studio LP earned Platinum certification from the RIAA. Supa Dupa Fly also received a Best Rap Album nomination at the 40th Annual Grammy Awards. Elliott eventually won four Grammys, including two Best Female Rap Solo Performance victories.

A Tribe Called Quest is also up for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inclusion. Kate Bush, Sheryl Crow, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Cyndi Lauper, George Michael, Willie Nelson, Rage Against the Machine, Soundgarden, The Spinners, The White Stripes, and Warren Zevon are the other ’23 nominees.

“It’s just a great group that underscores… the diversity of what we think of as Rock & Roll. And really it’s not just one sound, it’s many sounds, and it’s an attitude. It’s an attitude and it’s a spirit, and that’s Rock & Roll,” Greg Harris told Audacy.

Ne-Yo Finalizes Divorce From Crystal Renay

Ne-Yo has finalized his divorce from Crystal Renay, who filed for divorce from the “Closer” singer in August 2022 after six years of marriage. The union has now been officially dissolved.

According to legal documents obtained by TMZ, Ne-Yo and Renay have agreed to share joint custody of their three children: sons Shaffer, six, and Roman, four, and 19-month-old daughter Isabella.

Ne-Yo, real name Shaffer Smith, will pay Renay $12,000 a month in child support and cover the children’s school expenses, while he will also pay his ex $5,000 per month in alimony for the next three years.

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Ne-Yo and Renay have also agreed that neither will introduce new partners to the children unless they get engaged, married or approval from each other.

The 43-year-old will keep three of their four homes, while Crystal will keep one and receive a $1.6 million lump sum plus $200,000 in moving expenses.

Ne-Yo and Crystal Renay wed in 2016 after two years of dating. They first separated and initiated divorce proceedings in February 2020 but reconciled amid the pandemic and renewed their wedding vows in April 2022. Renay filed for divorce months later in August, accusing Ne-Yo of being unfaithful throughout their marriage.

“The Beautiful Monster” singer also shares two children with his ex-girlfriend Monyetta Shaw.

Jay-Z Puts Legal Battle With Bacardi To Rest; Agrees To New D’Usse Deal

Jay-Z and Bacardi reached an agreement in their dispute over the D’usse cognac brand.

Bacardi bought out much of Jay-Z’s stake in D’usse, securing a majority interest in the brand. The two sides announced Jay-Z maintained a “significant ownership stake” as part of the deal.

“Growing D’usse over the past decade from an idea to one of the fastest-selling spirits in history has been a blessing,” Jay-Z said in a press release. “The next phase of this journey will further cement D’usse’s legacy as one of the world’s most respected brands. I am excited to renew this partnership with Bacardi.”

Jay-Z and Bacardi co-owned D’usse for more than a decade. Hov sought a buyout after accusing Bacardi of mismanaging the brand.

Bacardi initially offered $500 million for Jay-Z’s 50 percent stake. He asked for $1.5 billion, which was rejected.

Last year, Jay-Z sued Bacardi over its handling of D’usse. Earlier this year, he filed paperwork to move the lawsuit to Bermuda, which is where the company’s headquarters are located.

After months of litigation, the two sides brokered a new deal. Terms of their agreement weren’t disclosed, but Bloomberg suggested it was worth at least $750 million.

“We have deep respect for [Jay-Z’s] creativity and business acumen and are proud of our accomplishments in establishing D’Usse as a leader in an exciting and competitive category,” Bacardi told Bloomberg.

Jay-Z is scheduled to attend the 2023 Grammy Awards on Sunday (February 5). He will join DJ Khaled for a performance of their song “God Did.”

Migos’ Quavo To Pay Tribute To Takeoff At 2023 Grammy Awards

Quavo will honor his late Migos bandmate Takeoff at the 2023 Grammy Awards. Takeoff, real name Kirsnick Khari Ball, was shot and killed in Houston, Texas on November 1, 2022. He was 28.

Officials from the Recording Academy announced Quavo, also known as Quavious Keyate Marshall, will be joined by the Maverick City Music choir to “remember the life and legacy” of his nephew for a performance of his standalone single “Without You” during the in-memoriam segment at the ceremony on Sunday.

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In addition, Kacey Musgraves will offer up a rendition of “Coal Miner’s Daughter” in a tribute to Loretta Lynn. The country music legend died at the age of 90 last October.

And Sheryl Crow, Mick Fleetwood, and Bonnie Raitt will honor Fleetwood Mac star Christine McVie with a performance of Songbird. McVie passed away at the age of 79 last November.

“The star-studded in-memoriam will pay tribute to some of those from the creative community whom we have lost this year,” a representative commented.

Meanwhile, U.S. First Lady Jill Biden, Cardi B, James Corden, Billy Crystal, Viola Davis, Dwayne Johnson, Olivia Rodrigo, and Shania Twain will serve as presenters during the prizegiving.

Previously, it was announced that performers will include Bad Bunny, Mary J. Blige, Brandi Carlile, Luke Combs, Steve Lacy, Lizzo, Kim Petras, Sam Smith, and Harry Styles.

The 2023 Grammy Awards, to be hosted by Trevor Noah, will be staged at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Director Alex Acosta: The Next Big Thing in Entertainment

Alex Acosta is a name that is quickly making waves in the entertainment industry, with a reputation for expert-level skills and an unwavering dedication to his craft. As a director, editor, and cinematographer, Acosta has a unique ability to tell stories that resonate with audiences and leave a lasting impression.

Born and raised in Bronx, New York, Acosta’s passion for storytelling began at a young age. As a student, he would film his day-to-day life and discover his passion for cinematography and direction. As he worked on various projects, he honed his skills until he got his big break.

Acosta’s work in the music industry has led him to work with some of the biggest names in the business, including Chris Brown, Rick Ross, Wale, City Girls, Jadakiss, Flo Rida, Jason Derulo, Shy Glizzy, Juicy J, Gorilla Zoe, Paul Wall, and many more. His work has aired on major networks such as ESPN, BET, MTV, FUSE, and ABC, and he has also contributed to shows such as “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” “The Today Show,” “Good Morning America,” and “Jimmy Kimmel Live.”

However, it is his experience as the director of REVOLT’s digital series “Respectfully Justin” that has solidified his reputation as a rising force in the entertainment industry. The show, which followed the life of Justin Combs, the son of Sean “Diddy” Combs, was an instant success, and Acosta’s work as the director played a major role in its success. The show required him to work closely with the Combs family and the REVOLT team to create a unique and compelling series that would capture the attention of audiences. Acosta approached the creative process with a combination of research and intuition, working closely with his production team to come up with unique and compelling treatments for each episode.

Acosta’s work on “Respectfully Justin” showcases his ability to capture the spirit of a brand and the energy of its subject matter. He was able to create a show that was not only entertaining but also gave a glimpse into the life of one of the most iconic figures in the entertainment industry. His ability to make audiences feel like they are a part of the Combs family is a testament to his skill as a director.

It’s clear that Acosta is a director who is always looking to push the boundaries of what is possible and create compelling and unique content. His experience on “Respectfully Justin” is a prime example of his ability to bring a fresh perspective to a project and make it stand out in a crowded market. As he continues to direct and produce new projects, it’s exciting to see what he will come up with next.

Alex Acosta is a name that should be on the radar of anyone in the entertainment industry. His talent, passion, and dedication make him a force to be reckoned with, and his work on “Respectfully Justin” serves as a shining example of his ability to create high-quality content that resonates with audiences. With a growing list of high-profile clients and a hunger to continue to strive for greatness, the entertainment industry can expect big things to come from Alex Acosta.

If you’re eager to learn more about Alex Acosta’s work and professional background, I highly recommend checking out his IMDB, LinkedIn, and website. These platforms offer a comprehensive look at his professional experience, portfolio, and references, providing you with a clear understanding of his skills and capabilities as a director. Additionally, I suggest following him on Instagram and Twitter for access to exclusive behind-the-scenes content and updates on his current projects. Don’t miss the chance to collaborate with this rising star in the entertainment industry, and reach out to Alex Acosta for your next project. 

More Of Young Thug’s YSL Co-Defendants Charged In Connection To Jailhouse Stabbing

Several co-defendants in Young Thug’s RICO case face charges for their alleged roles in a stabbing at the Fulton County Jail.

Earlier this week, Young Thug’s co-defendants Christian Eppinger, Damone Blalock and Rodalius Ryan were accused of being involved in the stabbing. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported charges against two more YSL co-defendants, Jevon Fleetwood and Demise McMullen, on Friday (February 3).

The stabbing victim was an inmate named Demarcus Bussey. The attack occurred on Tuesday night (January 31).

According to an arrest warrant obtained by the AJC, inmates surrounded Bussey inside the Fulton County Jail. Eppinger allegedly stabbed Bussey in the chest with a shank.

Bussey was taken to the Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. His condition hasn’t been disclosed.

Eppinger and Ryan were charged with aggravated assault. Blalock, Fleetwood and McMullen were charged with misdemeanor battery. All five of Young Thug’s co-defendants were charged with willful obstruction of a law enforcement officer.

Malik Drummond and David Dajuanta Wallace also face aggravated assault and obstruction charges related to the stabbing. The two inmates aren’t part of the YSL RICO case.

Young Thug, Eppinger, Blalock, Ryan and others await trial in the YSL RICO case. A judge severed Fleetwood and McMullen’s cases in December.

Fleetwood and McMullen were unable to find legal representation before jury selection began for Young Thug’s trial. The two will be tried at a later date.

Lizzo Wins Trademark Bid To Use Signature Phrase On Merchandise

Lizzo has won exclusive trademark rights to her signature phrase for use on merchandise. According to court documents obtained by Billboard, a federal tribunal decided on Thursday (February 2), the “Truth Hurts” singer would be granted the exclusive trademark rights to her phrase “100% That B**ch”.

The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) ruled Lizzo—whose real name is Melissa Jefferson—would be allowed to register the phrase as a federal trademark on apparel.

The agency had previously rejected Jefferson’s request to trademark the phrase last year, on the grounds “100% That B**ch” was a commonplace “motivational phrase” aimed at “female empowerment”, and not a branded term. However, USPTO’s Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) overturned the decision on 2 February, arguing that consumers who viewed the phrase on a T-shirt would think of the singer.

The USPTO had noted Jefferson had “popularized” the phrase but was not entitled to “appropriate” it for use on consumer goods. The TTAB disagreed, stating she had elevated a “lesser known phrase” into her “more memorable” lyrics.

“Consumers encountering ‘100% That B***h’ on the specific types of clothing identified in the application—even when offered by third parties—associate the term with Lizzo and her music,” the decision read. “Lizzo did not originate the expression she encountered as a Twitter meme… Nonetheless, lyrics from songs are more likely to be attributed to the artists who sing, rap or otherwise utter them, rather than the songwriters.”

The phrase appears in Lizzo’s song “Truth Hurts.”

Jay-Z Confirmed For 2023 Grammys; Performing “God Did” With DJ Khaled & More

Jay-Z returns to the Grammys stage on Sunday (February 5).

The Roc Nation boss will join DJ Khaled, Rick Ross, John Legend and Fridayy to perform their song “God Did” at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards. The track appeared on DJ Khaled’s 2022 album of the same name.

Rumors about Jay-Z performing at the 2023 Grammys first emerged in January. The Grammys officially announced his performance with DJ Khaled, Rick Ross, John Legend and Fridayy on Friday (February 3).

DJ Khaled, Jay-Z and their collaborators are vying for a few awards at the 2023 Grammys. “God Did” is nominated for Song of the Year, Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song.

Jay-Z scored another Song of the Year nomination for his work on Beyoncé’s “Break My Soul.” Hov and several others received writing credits on the single from his wife’s Renaissance album. Beyoncé’s Renaissance contends for Album of the Year at Sunday’s ceremony.

The 2023 Grammys take place at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Comedian Trevor Noah, who left The Daily Show in December, hosts the event for a third straight year.

Viewers can watch the 65th Annual Grammy Awards live on CBS and Paramount Plus. The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. EST.

Doja Cat “Will Gladly Join In” On Social Media Spats

Doja Cat has opened up about her complicated relationship with online trolls.

While speaking to Variety, the “Woman” rapper discussed using her Internet presence to confront critics.

“It f###### sucks now that I can’t fully do my thing on Instagram Live,” she said of her followers. “Now I’m being flooded with people who have these preconceived f###### notions about me, and they come in and try to troll. Which I’m very good at handling.”

She continued, “A lot of people think I’m not good at handling trolls because I respond to them. But that’s the art of it: I love to go to f**king war with trolls.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CoIMMwoLUsV/?hl=en

“That’s just what I’ve grown up with; I’ve been on the Internet for 1,000 f**king years and it’s just part of me: that I need to respond. People think, ‘Oh, if you’re defending yourself, you’re weak.'”

Calling herself a “very messy b***h,” Doja summarized, “If somebody wants to fight me on the Internet… I will gladly join in, balls to the wall. It’s fun for me.”

In addition, Doja’s creative director Brett Alan Nelson spoke out against trolling.

“Everyone gave her s**t for not wearing eyelashes,” he commented. “The Internet’s horrible, and there’s a bunch of kids online that have their opinions that don’t need opinions.”

Lil Wayne Said His Mom Pushed Him To Have A Baby At 14!

Shout out to Lil Wayne. That man has been through a lot. And, the abuse and troubles he endured continues to unravel before us. Last night he was honored by the Black Music Collective. But people are really talking about a portion of his speech. He explained that his mom was so lonely in life that she urged him to have a baby as the young age of 14.

“When I came home she said ‘Son, I can’t live in this house by myself. We’re gonna have to figure something out.’ I’d like to thank Antonia Johnson,” the mother of Tunechi’s first daughter Reginae for reasoning with me and my mom, and my life. I’d like to thank every single one of my kids and every single one of their mothers.”

Lil Wayne is a very different person than many moons ago. He was in LA to get the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award from the Recording Academy’s Black Music Collective. Very cool.

Check out part of the speech:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CoNVXEqpXRM/

Did China Just Come For Ice Spice?

Chika is a very talented artist. I think she’s a low-key genius that just has not fully materialized yet. Anyway, I appreciate her when she shows up in the musical form, but in other instances, it gets shaky. Last time I remember her, she was about to kill herself. I am wondering why she’s still on social when she could be doing music. Either way, here we go.

Recently, there was a post that seemed to be giving a regular shout out to Ice Spice. The post basically said “You don’t need media training if you are a nice person like Ice Spice.” That is completely wrong. But, here is how it apparently went down.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CoAVKkWpnba/

The comments were not nice.

One said: “How you mad cause people don’t wanna stream dat depression whoa is me ass music she can rap but all her music bout being a sad Black girl struggling with self esteem I love black women but don’t s### on another cause yo music not having the effect you feel it should.”

Another said: “She’s a certified hater! Always talking outta turn—even though sometimes she may have a point. Just don’t know where she really stands when she’s speaking though.”

Another said: “It was NEVER gonna be you CHIKA! Accept your failure and move on! Ugly tail self. Just ugly.”

I do not think she is ugly, but is seems like people are commenting on her attitude. I think she should stay in therapy and be healthy. Then, her outlook might change.

Watch “Big Haze”, Latest Video Release “Get It Back

Now going by Big Haze, he has scheduled two rap music releases, “4 me” and “Get It Back”, of which “4 me”, the single is already available in stores and on streaming platforms.

A Connecticut rapper, a recording artist, a student of the industry, whatever he is to be called… “Big Haze”, as stated in this report.  Is definitely an up-and-coming artist, as well as a rising star from our perspective.  

Previously releasing 3 professional albums, as “Haze Da Punter”: 

Overdue:  https://ditto.Fm/overdue-haze-da-punter

Game over:  https://ditto.Fm/game-over-haze-da-punter

Rolling stone:  https://ditto.Fm/rolling-stone-haze-da-punter

An independent artist, under the record label, punter music group, of which he is a member, this artist has a library of music and video releases. 

Watch:  “Big Haze”, the latest video release titled: “Get It Back” on youtube here: 

 

Listen to: “Big Haze”, by streaming the other new single titled: “4 me”, on Spotify:

or various other stores and platforms.  Stay tuned in here, and keep up with the latest trends by following: the “Big Haze”, on the web.

Follow & subscribe: 

IG: https://instagram.Com/bighazepmg?Igshid=ymmymta2m2y=

Twitter:  https://twitter.Com/bighazepmg

Snap:  https://t.Snapchat.Com/knffhuh3

Facebook:  https://www.Facebook.Com/haze.Punter

Facebook Band Gage:  https://www.Facebook.Com/hazedapunter/

Website Link:  https://puntermusicgroup.Com/

Link tree:  https://linktr.Ee/officialbighaze

For Booking & Contact Info:  

Keith Gamble, aka. “CB”, (334) 507-8102 

Management.

Already trending on social media.  This artist is definitely one to bookmark and keeps on your radar.   Be sure to share!!!