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Omar Gooding Isn’t Done With Cam’Ron—Or Rap

By: Chuck Creekmur (@ChuckCreekmur)Category: Exclusives

Omar Gooding has lived many lives in entertainment. To some, he’s the kid from Nickelodeon and Smart Guy. To others, he’s the actor from Baby Boy and seemingly countless roles across TV and film. But what many don’t know is Gooding has been an MC long before Hollywood fame ever called.

Recently, his pen and pride collided with Harlem legend Cam’ron, sparking one of the most unexpected rap dust-ups of the year. What began with a slip of the tongue—Cam calling him “Omar Gooding Jr.”—spiraled into a string of diss records, a viral “prank” that left Gooding furious and a fourth response track that has the rap world taking him very seriously. In an exclusive with AllHipHop, Omar opens up about defending his brother Cuba Gooding Jr. from Nas, why he doesn’t write out of anger, the details behind the prank and why Part Four is the one.

The Q&A has been edited for clarity and flow. For the full, unedited conversation watch the video

AllHipHop: Omar, first off, how you feeling? You’ve had the internet buzzing.

Omar Gooding: I’m good, bro. Glad to talk to you. I know I got people shaking right now, some laughing, some talking, but it’s cool. I’m built for this.

AllHipHop: I’m glad to talk to you, man. First of all, you’re not from New York City, but your brother used to be at all our parties back in the day hanging out.

Omar Gooding: That’s funny too because he was hot at me a couple days ago. He was like, “Stop pandering to ignorance.” And I was like, first of all, what the f##k does pandering mean? Second of all, make me # when you trying to preach to your little brother. Like, knock it the sh## off. I’m doing what I do.

I don’t think I’ve responded or written out of anger in a long time. Ironically, I’ma give you something I wasn’t planning on saying. The only time I ever wrote a rhyme out of anger was when I was trying to defend my big brother when Nas put his name in a song. (Editor’s Note: On “These Are Our Heroes,” Nas condemned Tiger Woods, Taye Diggs and Cuba Gooding Jr.)

AllHipHop: Tell me more.

Omar Gooding: Yeah, the only time I ever rapped out of anger was defending my big brother. When Nas said, “You sell out like Cuba Gooding Jr.,” I lost it. I was in Dr. Dre’s studio with Focus, Chino XL, a bunch of MCs. They threw on a beat, and I went last like I always do. I went straight at Nas. Everybody was like, “What are you doing?” But that’s my brother. I was heated. Focus just shook his head and said, “Nas ain’t gonna respond.” And of course, he didn’t. But that was the one time.

AllHipHop: Recently you found yourself in another situation — the so-called prank with Cam. Walk us through what happened.

Omar Gooding: Man, look. I was booked for one scene, $2,500, flown first class, easy work. The original script had me licking a sneaker. I said, “I’m not licking no f##kin’ shoe.” They revised it to push-ups and jumping jacks. I said, “No jacks, but I’ll do push-ups.” Took my shirt off, had a tank top, did like 100 push-ups in different takes. That’s it. Nothing crazy.

Next thing I know, this footage pops up online with filters and Cam’ron’s clowning. At first, I laughed, but then I was like, “Wait — this dude crossed the line.” What people don’t realize is that wasn’t some random casting. I got called by somebody I knew, who was tied to Cam. He orchestrated it. That’s why I said, you can’t fall for the favors game in Hollywood.

AllHipHop: You made some reference to some possible legalities, but don’t…

Omar Gooding: I don’t want that man’s money. I got my own path, my own legacy. But when you cross lines and play with my name, I’m gonna respond. Period.

AllHipHop: And that response came in the form of the “Fix Your Mouth” series.

Omar Gooding: Right. The first one was light — a warning shot. The second was sharper. I thought it was over. Then Cam mentioned me again on his show, slipped in jokes about me doing barbershops and bowling alleys. I laughed, gave him props because it was funny, but then I had to cook again. That’s when I dropped Part Four.

AllHipHop: Part Four feels like the one that had people really tuning in.

Omar Gooding: Yeah, that was the test. He dropped the prank, people were clowning me, my phone blowing up. I said, “Alright, chest out, stomach in. Time to respond.” We recorded Part Four in real time. No ghostwriters, no waiting two weeks, none of that. Just me and my DJ arranging it, switching beats, making it surgical. When you hear us laughing at the end, that was live in the booth. That’s Hip-Hop to me. Real pen work. Replay value.

AllHipHop: You said New Yorkers weren’t rocking with you, but the people I spoke to from New York told me to tell you keep the pressure up. They said Cam don’t really want smoke.

Omar Gooding: That bothered me. My mom and dad were born in Harlem. My father’s buried there. I did a comedy show in Harlem in the middle of this whole thing. So it ain’t East vs. West. Don’t get it twisted. I love New York.

AllHipHop: Let’s talk MC stuff. Some have questioned if Cam freestyles.

Omar Gooding: Look, freestyle means different things now. To me, it always meant off the top of your head. When I was younger, I’d hit Power 106 with Big Boy, just spitting live, no prep. I remember one time he caught me off guard and I froze. Next time, I showed up freestyling from 5 a.m. till we walked in the studio. That’s me. I come from that era where freestyling meant raw bars right then and there. Cam’s a lyricist, but let’s not act like everything is straight off the dome.

AllHipHop: Beyond this, you’re juggling comedy, acting, and music. What does all this mean for Omar Gooding right now?

Omar Gooding: Honestly, it’s exposure. Phone ringing more, bookings up 30 to 40 percent. People reaching out for all kinds of opportunities. And yeah, some are clowning, but that just means they’re watching. At the end of the day, I’m grateful. I’m doing stand-up, I’m doing music, I’m acting. I’m not boxed in. And I’ll give Cam this: without him, maybe people wouldn’t know just how serious I am with this MC thing. So in a way, I thank him.

“Power Book II” Star Arrested On Child Cruelty Charge In Georgia

By: London JennnCategory: News

Alix Lapri was arrested in DeKalb County, Georgia, on Sunday (August 18) and charged with third-degree cruelty to children and disorderly conduct, according to WSB-TV in Atlanta.

The 27-year-old actress, who plays Effie Morales on 50 Cent’s Starz series Power Book II: Ghost, was booked into the DeKalb County Jail and released roughly 24 hours later, Atlanta’s WSB-TV reports.

Authorities have not released details about what led to the arrest, and Lapri has not issued a public statement.

Under Georgia law, third-degree cruelty to children applies when someone knowingly allows a minor to witness or hear an act of violence, such as battery or a forcible felony.

The charge does not require physical harm to the child but focuses on exposing them to traumatic events.

Michael Rainey Jr., who stars alongside Lapri on the hit crime drama, took to Instagram to defend her.

“On the real though yall gotta start reading before commenting,” he wrote. “She didn’t hurt any kids. Yall are hoping that’s the case so bad.. that’s crazy smh.”

Despite the legal trouble, Lapri has stayed active on social media, sharing motivational posts and updates on her career.

On Monday (August 25), she posted, “Gotta keep at it buddy. Chase the dream and know no fear.”

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Lapri has portrayed Effie Morales since the original Power series and continued the role in its sequel, Power Book II: Ghost, produced by 50 Cent.

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She was released from custody on Monday (August 19), according to jail records.

Was Kanye West Right? Fans Debate North’s Latest Look & Criticize Kim Kardashian

By: Mike WinslowCategory: Rumors

North West hit Rome with some fierce blue hair and a punk-style outfit that has the internet buzzing and folks seriously questioning Kim Kardashian’s parenting moves—again.

The 12-year-old daughter of Kim and Kanye West rolled through Italy rocking electric blue pigtails and a full-on glam-punk fit.

In the picture, posted to North’s official Instagram, she rocks a ruffled skirt, corset-style top, heavy steampunk boots, glasses, silver bangles, and a Vivienne Westwood heart-shaped purse.

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A post shared by NORTH WEST (@northwsst)

North and Kim also popped up in a TikTok video wearing the outfit during their trip to Rome to the sounds of Destroy Lonely’s track “if looks could kill.”

The portion of the track they decided to use featured the lyrics: “I got hella hoes tryna f### me and my bros/I got hella shows lined up, I’m on the road.”

The video blew up fast—and not everyone was loving it.

@kimandnorth

it looks could k🙌@superdani @cocamichelle_ @Kim Kardashian

♬ if looks could kill – Destroy Lonely

A bunch of people online said the outfit looked way too grown for a 12-year-old and started dragging Kim for letting her daughter dress like that.

“Looks 16 but only 12 is mind blowing to me sorry,” one user said. Another wrote “She is too grown for me .. why she showing off her chest like that don’t get me wrong north is a cutie but SLOW DOWN !”

While Kim was out there in a silky dress doing the whole Euro fashion thing, North was outshining her with a look that had way more edge—probably too much for some folks.

And this isn’t the first time people have raised eyebrows over North’s public image.

Kanye’s been calling this stuff out for years. He’s been loud about not wanting his daughter on TikTok or dressed too mature for her age.

Back in 2022, he posted on Instagram, “SINCE THIS IS MY FIRST DIVORCE I NEED TO KNOW WHAT I SHOULD DO ABOUT MY DAUGHTER BEING PUT ON TIK TOK AGAINST MY WILL?”

He’s also slammed Kim for letting North be in grown-up music videos. When North showed up in FKA Twigs’ “Childlike Things” video in March 2025, Kanye wasn’t feeling it.

He’s accused the Kardashians of using his kids for clicks and clout, saying they’re being “indoctrinated and used.”

At this point, some folks online are starting to wonder—was Kanye actually right all along?

Katt Williams Might Be Pulled Into Comedian Reggie Carroll’s Murder Case

By: Houston WilliamsCategory: Rumors

Don’t let the TMZ article fool you. This case is about to get crazier. Fast.

The death of comedian Reginald “Reggie” Carroll, who was fatally shot in Southaven on August 21, has rattled the comedy community. Fellow comic and creator Billy Sorrells is not playing games. He’s demanding answers and naming names. Bro is naming the big dogs.

In an Instagram Live broadcast, Sorrells alleged that Carroll was killed at a residence tied to comedian Katt Williams. This isn’t verified, but it’s very public. And, for some reason, he jabbed at other comedians for being silent. He name-checked a few big dogs, including Katt.

“Yeah, you might wanna go get TMZ for this one,” he said.” Yeah, y’all might need to go start tagging the blogs. What we not going to do is we not going to act like Katt… you didn’t know who the f### Reggie Carroll was. What we not going to do is act like Red Grant, you ain’t know who Reggie Carroll was. What we not going to do? You sit up here, Mo’Nique, and downplay who the f### Reggie Carroll was?”

Mo’Nique has pictures with Reggie, but I don’t believe she posted them post-death. I’m not sure what the relationship was with the other comics, but I do know generally there’s a kinship amongst these folks. Also, it’s my understanding that they all toured with Katt.

Billy added: “Katt Williams. You the truth teller. You the Lord of knowing so much truth. You the master of being able to tell everybody else this s###. Katt Williams… tell me why Reggie Carroll died out your house. Tell us what happened to Reggie Carroll.”

Billy Sorrells also identified the man arrested in connection with Carroll’s death as Tranell Williams, alleging that he may be related to Katt Williams. Now, we haven’t been privy to the details of the death, and I don’t expect anybody to speak out during an ongoing murder case. But, Billy isn’t biting his tongue. He took time to describe the man he says killed Reggie.

“Don’t sit here and be quiet now,” he said. “Tranell Williams. Got court on Wednesday, a 6’8”, 225-pound n###a. Y’all know what size Reggie was. Reggie was hit more than five times. Why y’all left Reggie out there on the motherf###ing curb by your crib?”

“Riddle me that. Everybody want to talk about who sucking d### and all this other bulls###. Tell us why my n###a dead. Katt, tell us why Reggie Carroll died at your house, n###a.”

For the record, authorities haven’t confirmed any family connection between the suspect and Katt Williams. But, court records list Tranell Williams as facing charges in Carroll’s death.

Neither Katt, Red nor Mo’Nique has commented publicly. The investigation is ongoing and I’m sure there will be more.

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Living Legends MC Aesop The Black Wolf Has Died

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: News

The Hip-Hop community is mourning after Aesop of the Living Legends crew died suddenly over the weekend. Fellow Living Legend Sunspot Jonz posted about Aesop’s death on Instagram Monday morning (August 18). He wrote, “What an amazing ride we had. I just can’t believe you’re gone. I am Completely crushed -when I heard this morning I burst into tears cursing God because it just ain’t fair. Too soon to go.

“Wanted to go off on a few people around you -and will-they know who they are-but for now I’m gonna concentrate on all the light you gave. Your charisma, smile, the talent, the love you brought to our hearts will never be forgotten. Love you forever my brother Derrick.”

Eligh also shared an Instagram tribute to his longtime friend and Living Legends crewmate, reminiscing on their early days.

“No one made me laugh till I cried more times in my life than you. We shared couches, we were young, broke, making music with a shared affinity for the supernatural. We smoked beedees in Japan, we were on stage together all over the world. You had a huge heart. Emotional. Hard headed, and wouldn’t let anyone walk over you. I don’t think many people loved harder than you. My kids never met you. And for that I grieve.

“Almost 30 years since we recorded ‘It was a mission’ in Grouch’s basement, in 1996. You said some of the most outlandish one liners that will forever echo in the collective crews memory of you. Again, having all of us cry laughing. I will miss you greatly my brother, but you are with your pops now. I know his passing devastated you. And your music will always exist on Earth, as long as Earth remains man! I will honor your memory by living my life with a child like vigor, which you always embodied. I love you man..If you can, hit me up in a dream, and tell me what it’s like to be free.”

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Aesop, also known as Aesop the Black Wolf, is a founding member of Living Legends. Originating in Los Angeles in the mid-1990s, Living Legends rose to prominence by embodying the indie rap ethos—recording, promoting and selling their music independently.

Aesop and the rest of the Legends—Murs, Luckyiam, Eligh, The Grouch, Sunspot Jonz, Bicasso and Scarub—helped pioneer the West Coast underground rap scene, building a massive grassroots following and influencing generations of independent artists. As part of Living Legends, Aesop contributed to critically acclaimed albums such as Angelz Wit Dirty Faces, Almost Famous and Creative Differences, each celebrated for its innovative lyrical content and collaborative spirit.

Aesop and Living Legends have been praised for their influential role in the indie-rap movement, earning accolades from publications like LA Weekly and maintaining a loyal fan base through continual touring and new releases, such as their 2023 album, The Return.

More recently, The Grouch announced his annual How The Grinch Stole Christmas Tour, which was expected to include all of the Living Legends, Cunninlynguists and Souls of Mischief. His cause of death has not been disclosed.

AllHipHop sends our condolences to Aesop’s loved ones.

Cardi B’s “Imaginary Playerz” Makes Underwhelming Spotify Debut—Despite JAY-Z Sample

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: News

Cardi B dropped her latest single “Imaginary Playerz” last week, but the track barely made a dent on the Spotify U.S. chart, debuting at a modest No. 147—an underwhelming showing for the Bronx rapper known for chart-topping hits. In fact, it’s nowhere to be found on Spotify global either and crawled on to Apple Music at No. 56.

The track, which samples JAY-Z’s 1997 classic “Imaginary Players,” is the fourth single from her long-awaited sophomore album, Am I The Drama. On the song, Cardi flexes her wealth and status, drawing comparisons between herself and other women in rap. “Imaginary Playerz” leans heavily into braggadocio, but early numbers suggest it hasn’t resonated with listeners the way her past releases have.

The video, however, appears to be making quite the impression, with more than 1.8 million YouTube views in the past two days.

The original “Imaginary Players” appeared on JAY-Z’s In My Lifetime, Vol. 1—which has actually seen a bump in streaming due to the song—and Cardi’s interpolation of the track was expected to generate buzz. Instead, the song’s lukewarm reception has raised questions about the momentum behind her upcoming project.

It’s been more than six years since Cardi released her debut album, Invasion of Privacy, which arrived in April 2018. That album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and moved 255,000 equivalent album units in its first week, according to Nielsen Music. The project spawned multiple hit singles and earned her a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album, making her the first solo female rapper to win in that category.

“Imaginary Playerz” follows a string of singles leading up to Am I The Drama, but its low placement on Spotify’s chart signals a rare misstep for Cardi, who’s typically a fixture in the top tier of streaming platforms.

As of Sunday (August 17), “Imaginary Playerz” has dropped off the Spotify U.S. chart completely.

50 Cent Says Goodbye To Starz After Terrible Ratings Report

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

50 Cent had a message for Starz after the network posted dismal subscriber numbers and a $42.5 million loss—he said “good bye” to the network.

The Hip-Hop mogul and executive producer took to social media to make his exit clear, writing, “It’s not that hard to say good bye. bye,” under a post about the network’s declining performance.

In addition to Fif constantly dragging the network that airs his shows, the second quarter of 2025 brought more bad news for Starz. U.S. streaming subscribers dropped from 13.04 million to 12.2 million, while total domestic customers fell by 410,000 to 17.6 million.

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The company blamed the losses on its recent separation from Lionsgate and said it would no longer release international streaming figures.

Despite the downturn, Starz still leans heavily on programming tied to 50 Cent.

The network airs several of his shows, including the Power universe and BMF.

Power Book IV: Force is heading into its third and final season. In fact, Joseph Sikora, the star of the series, said season three would be worth the wait.

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But behind the scenes, tensions between 50 Cent and Starz have been simmering for years. He has repeatedly criticized the network for delays, inconsistent scheduling and stalled renewals.

In 2022, 50 Cent announced he would take his content elsewhere, encouraging viewers to boycott Starz until his shows returned.

Though he remains executive producer on multiple titles under G-Unit Film & Television, he chose not to renew his deal with the network in 2022.

With subscriber losses mounting and 50 Cent walking away, the network’s future remains uncertain.

AI Eminem: The Mixtape We Can’t Ignore, But Must Defend Against

By: Chuck Creekmur (@ChuckCreekmur)Category: Exclusives

Artificial intelligence is, in many ways, the great scoundrel of our age. The technology has barreled into creative spaces without checks, balances or any real regard for the fragile ecosystem of artistry. Right now, it feels less like innovation and more like the mass production of counterfeit creativity. And yet, every so often, an exception emerges that forces even the staunchest critic to pause.

Someone recently stitched together an entire mixtape of “AI Eminem” with the name Dope Sick. The creators didn’t just mimic Slim Shady. They did the unthinkable: they trained the machine to channel early-2000s Marshall Mathers with frightening precision. There are some glitches, but it truly sounds close to the raw, unfiltered Em that many fans still long for. Hardcore listeners immediately know it’s not Marshall Mathers. But to the casual ear, it sounds like unreleased material from a prime era, once thought to be long gone.


In the early 1900s, Walter Benjamin made a now-famous argument in The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction. He theorized once art is endlessly replicated, it loses its “aura.” He said that its unique presence was tied to time and place. AI Eminem, despite how it feels, has no aura. It’s just a damn simulacrum that tricked me—tricked us—into nostalgia. And that’s what bothers me.

This digital quandary raises existential questions for every creator. What happens when machines can convincingly replicate the artistic peaks of our icons? On the other hand, what if the real Slim Shady decided to use this technology as a mirror, a way to rediscover the old him, the cadences or some new demented inspiration? This is the messy reality of artistry smashing into the algorithm.

Hip-Hop, perhaps more than any other genre, feels the weight of this imposition. For decades, our MCs, DJs, producers, graffiti writers and photographers have embodied authenticity They are the “real”—both ethos and aesthetic. To inject artificiality into that lineage feels like a disruptive intrusion and almost sacrilegious. This Eminem project feels good even when you know it is technically wrong. There are no guardrails, no cultural referees. Timbaland has openly partnered with Suno to build artificial artists. And fans, some knowingly and some not, are consuming it all.

We’ve seen glimpses of this before. Remember Tupac’s hologram appeared at Coachella in 2012? It stunned audiences but a lot of us – myself included – felt technology trespassed on sacred ground. AI Eminem gives me the same unease. This new stuff isn’t resurrecting the past for a moment, it’s fabricating bodies of work that never existed. Sheeeeesh…

Unlike other genres, authenticity is a maxim in Hip-Hop. KRS-One once said that Hip-Hop is “our spirits made audible,” and that doctrine of realness mixed w artificiality feel especially jarring. AI can mimic flows, rhyme schemes, even attitude—but it can’t reproduce the lived experience, struggle or spirit that Hip-Hop has always demanded. And, if it could, would we want it?

So here’s the real question: if you could press play on an AI app and hear your favorite artist create brand-new “classics” in their prime voice, would you? Or would that betray the very essence of culture?

The road ahead is winding, bumpy and likely endless. There will be bad actors, opportunists and profiteers. But there will also be moments—like this strange AI Eminem tape—that force us to ask not only what we want from art, but what we’re willing to accept as real.

By the way, Eminem himself just dropped a new record, “Everybody’s Looking At Me.” And it’s actually pretty damn good. There’s hope.

T-Hood’s Family Lawyers Up After Medical Examiner Confirms Killing Was A Homicide

By: Brxton LeeCategory: News

T-Hood was shot six times, including four wounds to the back, according to a newly released autopsy report, prompting his family to hire legal counsel as police continue investigating the fatal shooting at a home in Snellville.

The 33-year-old Atlanta rapper, born Tevin Hood, was found dead on August 9 at a residence on Lee Road in Gwinnett County. Four days later, Gwinnett County Police said the case was being reviewed as a possible self-defense situation. Authorities confirmed 24-year-old Ky Frost, the son of Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta personalities Rasheeda and Kirk Frost, was involved in the incident but has not been named as a suspect.

The Gwinnett County Medical Examiner’s report, released this week, listed six gunshot wounds to Hood’s body, including hits to his upper and lower back, legs, abdomen and one to the front of his leg. The manner of death was ruled a homicide.

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In response to the findings, Hood’s family retained an attorney and issued a statement addressing the circumstances of his death.

“Tevin Hood was a devoted father and a supportive co-parent. He was deeply involved in his daughter’s life, and to her, he was the very best dad. His loss leaves an unimaginable void,” the family’s attorney said.

“We recognize that the criminal investigation is ongoing, and we will allow the Gwinnett County Police Department to continue doing their job. The family is truly grateful for the effort and commitment law enforcement has shown and will continue to show throughout the process.

What we do know at this time is that Tevin Hood was shot from the back four times. That fact is both deeply troubling and heartbreaking to his loved ones. And there was only one person left to tell their side of the story. There are still more facts to uncover, but what remains certain is that justice must be served for Tevin’s daughter – whether through criminal accountability, civil action or both.”

Project Pat Officially Collaborating With Viral 9-Year-Old “Chickenhead” Girl

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

Project Pat is linking up with 9-year-old TikTok queen Alaynna Doty after her karaoke version of his track “Chickenhead” blew up the internet and boosted his streams.

The Memphis rap legend Project Pat is officially making moves with the Mississippi kid who helped bring his 2001 hit back to life.

With a little help from Gus’ World-Famous Fried Chicken in Nashville, Pat invited her to link up in Memphis for the city’s annual 901 Day celebration.

The duo is set to hit the stage on Monday, September 1, on Beale Street, with Project Pat holding down the 6:30 P.M. slot on the main stage.

Alaynna will be right there with him, living out every 9-year-old Hip-Hop lover’s dream.

Alaynna went viral after spitting “Chickenhead” at a Mexican joint in Olive Branch. Her mom threw the clip on TikTok, and boom — millions of views later, the internet couldn’t get enough.

The video racked up over 5 million views and had people in the comments losing it. Even the folks at the restaurant were hyped — clapping, cheering, and singing along like it was a concert.

Once Pat caught wind of the clip, he reposted it and gave Alaynna her flowers. His version of the video garnered another 4.5 million views across his own social media platforms, and things snowballed from there.

Thanks to the buzz, “Chickenhead” streams shot up an astounding 219% in the U.S. between July 1 and July 17, according to Billboard. The song even slid back onto the charts, landing at No. 8 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Digital Song Sales list last month.

The viral moment didn’t just boost numbers; now it has scored Alaynna a spot on stage with one of Hip-Hop’s most beloved rappers.

“Gangnam Style” Rapper PSY Facing Years In Prison Over Drug Scheme

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

Rapper Psy is under criminal investigation in South Korea over claims he illegally obtained prescription medications without required in-person doctor visits, authorities confirmed Thursday.

The “Gangnam Style” hitmaker, whose real name is Park Jae-sang, and a university hospital physician have both been booked by Seoul’s Seodaemun Police Station for allegedly breaching the country’s Medical Service Act.

Officers say Psy received prescriptions for Xanax and Stilnox—medications used to treat anxiety and insomnia—between 2022 and this year without undergoing face-to-face medical evaluations.

Instead, police allege, Psy’s staff members picked up the prescriptions on his behalf. Under South Korean law, such drugs require direct doctor-patient consultations and cannot be collected by third parties due to their classification as psychotropic substances.

Investigators launched the probe after receiving a tip and later raided the hospital to obtain medical records. The prescribing doctor has denied wrongdoing, insisting remote consultations were conducted in line with regulations.

Psy’s label, P Nation, issued a public apology Thursday, acknowledging the lapse and attributing it to lingering habits from the COVID-19 era.

“It was clearly a mistake and lapse in judgment to have a prescription sleeping pill collected on his behalf. We sincerely apologise. PSY has been diagnosed with chronic sleep disorder,” the agency said in a statement.

“There were never any proxy prescriptions … (but) a third party did receive the drugs on his behalf in some cases,” the company added.

The Medical Service Act, designed to protect public health and ensure ethical medical practices, carries severe penalties for violations.

Offenders can face up to three years in prison and fines of approximately $22,500.

In more severe cases, such as those involving abuse of controlled substances or patient harm, sentences have reached as high as 16 years.

The police say they are reviewing the seized documents and may summon Psy for questioning. The investigation remains ongoing.

Psy, 48, rose to international stardom in 2012 with the viral hit “Gangnam Style,” which lampooned Seoul’s affluent Gangnam district and became the most-watched YouTube video at the time.

Kid Cudi Needed Rehab After Weed Habit Exploded: “It Truly Ruled My Life”

By: Brxton LeeCategory: News

Kid Cudi re-evaluated his marijuana use and acting process after a rehab stint last fall that preceded the release of his memoir and latest album.

The 41-year-old artist, born Scott Mescudi, told People he checked himself into treatment in November 2024 to address what had become a dependency on weed.

“I just was in this place where I was abusing it,” he said. “I was really abusing it. I was smoking maybe 15 blunts a day, wake up in the mornings, get high. It truly ruled my life.”

Cudi said he gave up smoking entirely for two months before reintroducing it in moderation.

“And now I just get after it at night or on the weekends when I have the free time and I’m just relaxing, but I’m not smoking nowhere near as much weed as I was smoking before,” he said. “A joint lasts me all day, damn near. So my relationship has changed with that in a major way. And I’m just more interested in being sober a lot more and being more present.”

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The change has already impacted his work on screen. Known for roles in Don’t Look Up and How to Make It in America, Cudi said he used to be “blitzed out of my mind” while filming. But during a recent project, he remained sober and noticed a shift.

“Granted, it’s not like it hinders me in any type of way because I was smoking so much that I wasn’t really getting high,” he said. “So people have seen me act for years and they love my acting. They love the stuff I’ve done, but it’s just something different when you’re on set and you’re sober and you can feel the emotions.

“Because in this movie, I cried a handful of times and it was easy to get there because I was sober. There’s no way I could have done this if I was high as s###.”

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Cudi’s memoir, Cudi: The Memoir, released alongside his 11th studio album, Free, explores his upbringing in Cleveland, his rise in Hip-Hop and his personal battles with addiction and healing. The book has since landed on the New York Times Best Seller list.

“I hope it gives [fans] some hope that you do come out on the other side and into the light and God puts us through things because he wants to teach us something,” Cudi said. “It’s always a lesson in there, always. Even if it doesn’t seem like it could be possible, because in the moment, everything just seems like all is lost, you know what I mean? But if you really think about it, everything happens for a reason.”

Cudi: The Memoir is available now through Simon & Schuster.  Free is out via Wicked Awesome and Republic Records.

Taylor Townsend Warns Jelena Ostapenko After U.S. Open: “Better Remember Where I’m From”

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

Taylor Townsend didn’t just win her second-round match at the U.S. Open — she made headlines for what happened after the final point, trading sharp words with Jelena Ostapenko at the net in a tense post-match exchange that lit up social media.

Townsend defeated Ostapenko 7-5, 6-1 on the hard courts of Flushing Meadows, but the match’s aftermath stole the spotlight.

During the handshake, Ostapenko allegedly told Townsend she had “no class and no education,” criticizing her for not apologizing after a net cord winner and for not warming up from the baseline.

“She told me that I have no education, no class and to see what happens if we play each other outside of the U.S. And I said I’m excited. Bring it. I’ve never been the one to back down from anything like that, but I just thought that it was really interesting,” Townsend said after the match.

Townsend, 27, brushed off the confrontation and said she believed Ostapenko’s behavior stemmed from frustration.

“I chalk that up to competition. I chalk it up to being upset. She pulled out all the stops to try and break the momentum and sometimes people do that, but it is what it is. Still, no beef. But like you guys saw, I’m not going to back down because you’re not going to insult me, especially after I carried myself a certain type of way with nothing but respect,” she said.

She added, “If I show you respect, I expect the same in return. That’s just how it is.”

Townsend also reminded reporters that she had already beaten Ostapenko outside the United States.

“I beat her in Canada, outside the U.S. I beat her in New York, inside the U.S., so let’s see what else she has to say.”

On Instagram, Townsend posted, “Brought the fire, some people can’t take the heat,” followed by “Onto the next! Love yall.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/DN4ZB2BDvt\_/?hl=en&img\_index=1

Ostapenko later responded on her own Instagram, accusing Townsend of disrespect and pointing to tennis etiquette as the root of her frustration.

Townsend said she found the entire situation “humorous” and dismissed the idea that she owed anyone an apology. She also rejected any suggestion that Ostapenko’s comments had racial undertones.

The heated moment has drawn attention beyond the tennis world, with the viral clip circulating widely online. Townsend will play her third-round match later this week.

Drake Reveals How First Kiss Came About In “Degrassi” Doc About Outcast High School Years

By: Nolan StrongCategory: News

Drake revisited his teenage years and early acting days in a new trailer for Degrassi: Whatever It Takes, reflecting on how the Canadian teen drama changed his life and launched his path to superstardom.

The rapper and former actor appears in the upcoming documentary, which premieres September 13, at the Toronto International Film Festival.

The film marks the 40th anniversary of the Degrassi franchise and dives into its cultural legacy, emotional storytelling and influence on generations of young viewers.

Drake played Jimmy Brooks on Degrassi: The Next Generation from 2001 to 2009.

“I didn’t have a great time in high school, I just didn’t really fit in,” Drake says in the trailer. “And then one day my mom called me and told me, ‘You got the role.’ And I just grabbed my bag and left. What a wild journey that started.”

In the film, he reflects on a scene where his character kisses Paige Michalchuk, played by Lauren Collins, and realizes it was a personal milestone.

“She had to be one of my first kisses for sure,” he says. “Damn, I never thought about it like that.”

Directed by Lisa Rideout, the documentary offers a behind-the-scenes look at the beloved series, featuring interviews with cast members such as Dayo Ade, Jake Epstein, Shane Kippel, Stefan Brogren, Shenae Grimes-Beech and others.

The film showcases the show’s bold approach to tackling real-life issues, including teen pregnancy, mental health and identity.

The film explores how Degrassi stood apart from other teen dramas by confronting complex topics without sugarcoating.

The series began with The Kids of Degrassi Street in 1979 and evolved through multiple iterations, culminating in Degrassi: The Next Generation, which ran until 2015.

Lil Wayne Salutes “Traylor” Engagement In Kansas City

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: News

Lil Wayne gave a surprise shoutout to Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift during his Kansas City concert, pausing mid-show to toast the couple’s engagement while rocking a cardigan—a nod to Swift’s signature style.

“I’m dressed in spirit. In the spirit of my man Travis and my girl, you already know Taylor. Traylor! That’s what we call them. Congratulations,” Wayne told the crowd, drawing cheers from the hometown audience of the Kansas City Chiefs tight end.

The moment marked a full-circle shift from earlier this year when the Green Bay Packers supporter slammed the Chiefs online after their playoff win over the Houston Texans.

“It’s not even impressive when u cheat and then clearly try to cheat. Just win baby,” Wayne posted on X in January. “I hate the cheating azz Chiefs.”

Despite the jab, Kelce didn’t seem fazed. He and his brother Jason addressed the comment on their New Heights podcast, with Jason saying, “The whole world was talking about something else during the game. Even Lil Wayne.”

Travis responded with a quick nod to the rapper, saying, “Shout out to Tunechi, man.”

Wayne’s public congratulations suggest any lingering tension has cooled off. The Hip-Hop icon’s gesture in Kelce’s hometown showed a light-hearted side to a previously heated exchange.

Kelce and Swift’s engagement became public earlier this month.

YSL Crew Implodes As Co-Founder Slams Young Thug Over Snitch Allegations

By: London JennnCategory: News

YSL co-founder YSL Mondo unleashed a blistering critique of Young Thug on Wednesday (August 27) after resurfaced interrogation audio reignited accusations of snitching, triggering a wave of infighting within the YSL camp.

In a series of pointed remarks, Mondo accused Thug of hypocrisy for branding Gunna a “rat” following his Alford plea in the YSL RICO case, only for Thug’s own past statements to come under scrutiny.

“That ain’t nothing but God biting you back in your ass, bro,” Mondo said, referencing Thug’s previous criticism of Gunna. “Instead, you still come out pushing the rat narrative… Now look, it came back and bit you in the ass.”

Mondo didn’t stop there. He called out Thug’s supporters for defending him despite the audio, which many believe shows Thug implicating Peewee Roscoe in the 2015 Lil Wayne tour bus shooting case.

“Bro, if you sit down with 12 and bust out and say these words,” he added. “If y’all talking about a n#### like Gunna ratted from saying ‘Yes ma’am,’ you mean to tell me this not making a n#### a rat by saying ‘They said Rosco shot the bus up.'”

He also blasted Roscoe for standing by Thug despite serving a decade behind bars.

“A n#### like Rosco did 10 years behind this s###,” Mondo said. “You just got on the internet talking ’bout a n#### didn’t rat on you? Boy, your ass so brainwashed. It’s sickening.”

Mondo continued, “Rosco, you the worst, twin. You’re worse than the rat itself. You did 10 years twin behind this s###, Rosco. You did 10 years behind it, brother. And you just come on the internet and say a n#### didn’t tell on you when everybody just heard this man say your name a few times.”

Roscoe, for his part, defended Thug in a video, denying that the rapper ever snitched. He even described Thug as “clean as Listerine.”

“When you go in the interrogation room, that’s what you do,” he insisted. “You tell ’em, ‘We sold Dwayne Carter weed.’ What the f### is wrong with you? A statement is this right here…. He did what a tax-paying citizen do, a real street n####. He kept it silent, kept it overly real. Really, tried to pull me out the hole.”

The tension didn’t stop with Mondo and Roscoe.

YSL Duke took aim at Yak Gotti on X (Twitter), over alleged statements made to law enforcement.

Meanwhile, YSL Woody chimed in, urging people to stop the online drama and focus on their own lives.

Young Thug denied snitching on Peewee Roscoe amid widespread accusations.

He posted on social media: “They didn’t play my interrogation video in court cause I helped my brada #Ratwhere?”

Charleston White Vows To Write Judge Urging Longer Sentence For Boosie Badazz

By: London JennnCategory: News

Charleston White took his long-running grudge with Boosie Badazz to another level Wednesday (August 27) by pledging to personally contact the federal judge overseeing Boosie’s gun case, demanding the rapper serve at least one year behind bars.

“I’m going to write a letter to Little Boosie federal judge; reminding the judge who Marlo Mike was to Boozie!,” White posted on Instagram. “I will find every single video of Boozie disrespecting the police and speaking against our great law enforcement agencies! I will find all those videos where Boozie was mocking our POTUS for his recent criminal convictions! In hopes of Boozie being sentenced to maximum sentencing guidelines of 15 years.”

Boosie Badazz pleaded guilty earlier this week to a federal charge of illegal firearm possession stemming from a 2023 arrest in San Diego. Under the plea agreement, prosecutors dropped a second weapons charge and recommended a two-year prison term—far below the 15-year maximum.

The deal also includes three years of supervised release following his sentence.

White, never one to hold back, responded to reports of the proposed sentence with more online jabs.

“Boosie fans talking like 24 months not a long time!” he stated. “Boosie going to a maximum USP facility because of those 5 murder charges on his arrest record! Furthermore, the judge can sentence this known criminal longer than 24 months in Federal prison!”

He also posted a mock prayer video, sarcastically counting down to Boosie’s potential incarceration. He captioned the post, “It’s count down time!”

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The reference to Marlo Mike touches on Boosie’s 2012 murder trial, where prosecutors accused the rapper of paying Michael “Marlo Mike” Louding $2,800 to kill Terry Boyd.

Though Louding was convicted and sentenced to life without parole, he later claimed police coerced his confession. Jurors acquitted Boosie after deliberating for less than an hour.

Charleston White Taunts Boosie Badazz Over Federal Plea Deal

White has repeatedly celebrated Boosie’s legal troubles. He even bet $10,000 that the rapper would die in prison due to health complications, including diabetes and stroke.

He’s also made inflammatory remarks about Boosie’s children and promised to create content mocking them during their father’s incarceration.

Their feud, which dates back to 2022, has included personal attacks, criminal allegations and even FBI involvement.

White previously accused Boosie of threatening a promoter in Baton Rouge and claimed he alerted federal authorities.

FBG Murda Hospitalized After Gunfight—Police Say He’s Not Victim

By: London JennnCategory: News

FBG Murda took multiple bullets during a scuffle at a Texas muffler shop, but police say he’s no victim—they’re calling him the aggressor in an armed confrontation that left him hospitalized and facing charges.

The 26-year-old Dallas rapper, born Cayto Rivers, was shot several times on Tuesday (March 26) during a violent altercation at a business in Irving, according to the Irving Police Department.

Authorities say the incident involved FBG Murda, 21-year-old Elijah Jacobs and the shop’s owners.

Police allege that Murda and Jacobs entered a restricted area of the shop, became hostile when told to leave, pulled out guns and got into a physical fight with the business owners.

“During the struggle, the suspects threatened to shoot the victims,” police said in a statement. “As one victim held onto a suspect, the suspects attempted to flee in a vehicle, dragging the victim alongside. During this altercation, a firearm was discharged, and one suspect was struck.”

Despite being the one shot, Murda is listed by police as a suspect, not a victim.

Once he’s released from medical care, he’s expected to be booked for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Jacobs was arrested and charged with the same offense.

Video clips posted to social media show Murda receiving emergency care after the shooting, prompting concern from the Hip-Hop community.

The rapper has built a strong presence in the Dallas drill scene, with a growing audience on TikTok and Spotify.

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Investigators have not yet determined who fired the shot that struck Murda.

The motive behind the confrontation remains unclear, and police are asking anyone with information to come forward.

Cardi B Cleared By Witness In Explosive Assault Trial Testimony

By: London JennnCategory: News

Cardi B received fresh courtroom support on Wednesday (August 27) as a key witness testified that she did not see the rapper lay a hand on a security guard during a 2018 dispute at a Beverly Hills OB-GYN office.

Tierra Malcolm, the receptionist working at the clinic that day, told jurors she stepped into the hallway after hearing raised voices. She saw Cardi B and security guard Emani Ellis in a heated verbal exchange—but there was no physical contact. She added that she placed herself between the two women to de-escalate the situation.

Malcolm testified she later noticed a scratch on her face, which she believed came from Ellis, not Cardi. She said she was facing the guard with her back to Cardi during the incident.

Her account directly challenged Ellis’ claim that Cardi B assaulted her during the confrontation.

The incident happened while the clinic had closed early to give Cardi privacy for her prenatal appointment.

Malcolm’s testimony helped reinforce Cardi’s version of events, which she had shared earlier in the week during her own testimony.

“I didn’t hit her. She didn’t hit me. There was no touch. So to me, there was no incident,” Cardi told the court, denying any physical altercation. She admitted the two were “chest-to-chest” and exchanged words, but insisted it never turned violent.

Cardi also pointed out she was four months pregnant at the time and weighed about 130 pounds, while Ellis was significantly larger. She insisted she would not have gotten physical, adding that Ellis’ filming of her without consent triggered the confrontation.

Backing up Malcolm’s testimony, Dr. David Finke—the OB-GYN who treated Cardi that day—said he saw Ellis cause a shoulder injury to Malcolm and did not witness Cardi B touch anyone.

“I’m just flabbergasted with the allegations that don’t seem congruent with what I saw that day,” Finke told the court.

The civil trial continues this week in Los Angeles County.

Charleston White Rips Into Young Thug Over Viral Audio: “You Didn’t Take The Stand, But You Told”

By: London JennnCategory: News

Charleston White unleashed on Young Thug over a newly resurfaced 2015 interrogation video, accusing the rapper of snitching while calling out what he sees as hypocrisy in Hip-Hop.

“I’m going to slaughter Young Thug,” White declared in a video posted online, reacting to the leaked footage. “I prophesized this. I told y’all Young Thug was gone go tell it.”

The viral audio, which began circulating online Wednesday (August 27), shows Young Thug speaking with investigators about Peewee Roscoe, who was tied to the 2015 shooting of Lil Wayne’s tour bus.

In the clip, Thug says, “They said Roscoe, but I don’t wanna block out y’all’s case by saying Roscoe ain’t do that,” and “Every day [Roscoe] broke the f###### law.”

That was enough for White to go on the offensive.

“First thing they tell you before you sit down is you do know you have the right to remain silent,” he said. |Anything you say can and will be used against you. You have a right to an attorney. You have a right to have an attorney present. Right then and there, you don’t want to talk no more. Well, I thought we don’t talk to police.”

White then took aim at Thug’s past criticism of Gunna, who accepted an Alford plea in the YSL RICO case in 2022.

“A two-hour interrogation,” he continued. “And you mad at Yak Gotti? You mad at Gunna? Gunna don’t have no interrogation tape. And everybody mad at Gunna. This is what I tell y’all. Hip hop is fake. They pick and choose.”

He didn’t stop there. White mocked Thug’s street credibility and invited him to switch sides.

“Come on over with me, Young Thug,” he teased. “Turn in your jersey, Young Thug, and come on over here and sit down with the tattletail. You didn’t take the stand, but you told.”

White added, “This is why y’all ship sunk. The whole YSL-tell group was a loose lip full of boys. They weren’t just talking in the interrogation room. They was talking on record, too. Confessing on record.”

Young Thug Denies “Rat” Accusations

The backlash stems from Thug’s own history of calling out others for cooperating with law enforcement.

His jab at Gunna for allegedly “snitching” became a flashpoint during the YSL case, making the emergence of this old interrogation video even more controversial.

Thug responded to the criticism on social media, writing, “They didn’t play my interrogation video in court cause I helped my brada #Ratwhere?” suggesting he was trying to protect Peewee Roscoe, not incriminate him.

Young Thug Dragged By Fans After Viral Police Audio Prompts Snitch Accusations

By: London JennnCategory: News

Young Thug found himself at the center of online ridicule Wednesday (August 27) after old police interview audio resurfaced showing him allegedly naming Peewee Roscoe in connection to a high-profile shooting, prompting accusations of snitching and a wave of memes calling him a “rat.”

The clip, which quickly made the rounds on social media, features the Atlanta rapper in a police interrogation room discussing the 2015 shooting of Lil Wayne‘s tour bus.

During the two-hour audio recording, Thug appears to reference Roscoe. “They said Roscoe,” he says. “But I don’t wanna block out y’all case by saying Roscoe ain’t do that.”

He also adds, “Every day [Roscoe] broke the f###### law.”

The resurfaced recording triggered a flood of online commentary. Users compared Thug’s situation to that of Gunna, who was previously accused of cooperating with prosecutors after taking an Alford plea in the YSL RICO case.

One user wrote, “Legit nothing Gunna said was used in court either… You can’t move the goalpost now.”

Another added, “Young Thug came out of jail, burnt down bridges, released zero good music and just got exposed for being a rat. Tough scenes.”

Young Thug Reacts To Resurfaced Audio

Thug responded to the backlash on X( Twitter). He wrote, “They didn’t play my interrogation video in court cause I helped my brada #Ratwhere?

He also reposted a message from a fan account that read, “The DA kept objecting to letting it in.”

The irony wasn’t lost on many, given Thug’s past cryptic jabs at Gunna.

In earlier posts, Thug wrote, “If u a rapper and u a rat, u gotta just go gospel twin,” and “U f###### rat representer shut up,” which many interpreted as thinly veiled shots at his former collaborator.

Gunna, who walked free in December 2022 after entering an Alford plea, has consistently denied cooperating with authorities.

Prince Jackson Announces Engagement With Tribute To Father Michael Jackson

By: London JennnCategory: News

Prince Jackson marked a major milestone on Tuesday (August 2) by announcing his engagement to longtime girlfriend Molly Schirmang with a touching tribute to his late father, Michael Jackson.

The 27-year-old shared the news on Instagram with a photo slideshow capturing eight years of memories — from vacations to family gatherings — all set to the King of Pop’s 1987 ballad “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You.” The song choice wasn’t random. It was a clear nod to his father’s influence and presence in his life.

“8 years down [eternity] to go,” Prince wrote in the caption. “Molly and I have spent a lot of time together and made incredible memories. We’ve traveled the world, graduated and grown so much together. I’m excited for this next chapter in our lives as we continue to grow and make great memories. I love you babs.”

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The couple met while attending Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles and have been together since around 2017.

Their relationship has remained mostly private, though Prince has occasionally shared glimpses of their life together on social media.

Among the images in the engagement post was a sweet shot of the couple with Prince’s grandmother, Katherine Jackson, who raised him and his siblings after Michael Jackson’s death in 2009.

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Prince, born Prince Michael Jackson Jr. in February 1997, is the eldest of Michael’s three children.

His younger siblings include Paris Jackson and Bigi Jackson. The trio were largely kept out of the public eye during their early years but have since stepped into the spotlight in their own ways.

The couple has not yet shared a wedding date.

French Montana Confirms He’s Engaged To Dubai Princess Sheikha Mahra

By: Houston WilliamsCategory: News

French Montana confirmed his engagement to Sheikha Mahra, the Princess of Dubai, according to his rep. The proposal reportedly happened in June during Paris Fashion Week, where the Bronx-raised artist also hit the runway.

The engagement links Dubai royalty to a staple in Hip-Hop, giving their romance an international spotlight. French and Sheikha Mahra were first spotted together in 2024 and have continuously made headlines for their dates. Their outings have included mosque visits, candlelit dinners in Dubai and Morocco, a strolls in Paris and even camel rides.

Wedding details are still being finalized. Both families are reportedly thrilled about the union and are working to plan the celebrations.

French recently dropped a new track, “Pack U Up,” with rising New York star Cash Cobain. The release is rapidly approaching a million views on YouTube.

French Montana is a decidedly New York artist, who made his name with hits like “Unforgettable” and “Pop That,” but hasn’t shied away from his Moroccan roots. This royal connection mirrors rap’s global reach.

EXCLUSIVE: Cardi B Sued For Betraying Gang Code Over Megan Thee Stallion Collaboration

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: Exclusives

Cardi B was hit with an absurd lawsuit from a Michigan inmate who claimed she broke gang “rules” by teaming up with Megan Thee Stallion—and the judge tossed it almost immediately.

The inmate, who’s doing time in Michigan, filed a lawsuit from behind bars saying Cardi violated some gang code when she worked with Meg.

He claims he’s part of the Almighty Vice Lord Nation and says Cardi reps the Righteous United Blood Nation. According to him, neither group messes with “rats, snitches, [and] informants.”

He said that Cardi made music with Megan, who told police about Tory Lanez shooting her.

The guy said that the move went against the gang’s entire ‘no-snitch’ policy and that Cardi had basically betrayed their code by working with someone who had cooperated with the police.

He also tried to say Cardi used offensive language and racial slurs in her lyrics and that she misrepresented his culture. He wanted the court to step in and stop her from working with anyone who’s ever talked to the feds.

The judge was not even close to buying it. The court tossed the frivolous case with prejudice, which means it cannot be refiled.

The inmate is responsible for the $350 filing fee. The Michigan Department of Corrections will take 20% of his monthly prison account until it’s paid off.

Denzel Washington Says He Doesn’t Watch Movies

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

Denzel Washington says he’s over watching movies and unsure how many more he’ll make, even as he promotes his latest collaboration with Spike Lee, Highest 2 Lowest.

In a GQ video sit-down with Lee, the 70-year-old actor didn’t hold back about his lack of interest in watching films these days.

“I don’t watch movies, man. I really don’t,” Washington said. “I’m just being honest with you! I don’t watch movies! I don’t go to the movies. I don’t watch movies… I’m tired of movies. Yeah.”

The pair reunited to promote Highest 2 Lowest, a crime thriller that premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May. It’s their fifth project together following Mo’ Better Blues, Malcolm X, He Got Game and Inside Man.

When Lee asked how many films Washington had done, the actor replied, “Too many. I think 50!”

Lee stirred speculation at Cannes when he suggested this could be their final collaboration.

“I think this is it – five. He’s been talking about retirement, so… Even though he just did another deal. I thought you said you were retired, Denzel, what’s up?! But those five films together, those stand up.”

However, Lee later walked back the retirement talk in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, saying, “I said that before, but I got my mind right. I’m open to work with Denzel Washington and this not be the last film of the dynamic duo, D and Lee.”

Highest 2 Lowest, which also stars Jeffrey Wright and A$AP Rocky, will debut on Apple TV+ on September 5 following a limited theatrical release.

EXCLUSIVE: Damon Dash Gets Win—Judge Shuts Down Photographer’s Case Again

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

Damon Dash scored a courtroom victory in California after a federal judge refused to revive a long-running lawsuit brought by photographer Monique Bunn over the alleged misuse of her photo archive.

The judge rejected Bunn’s motion to reconsider the case, stating her latest arguments were no different from those already dismissed. The court had previously ruled that Bunn failed to prove she suffered any financial harm when items she claimed were taken were not returned.

Bunn had asked the court to overturn a jury verdict that found she was not entitled to damages. However, the judge stated that she presented no new evidence or legal basis to justify changing the outcome.

This final decision effectively renders the lawsuit dead, with no compensation awarded to Bunn.

The legal dispute began when Bunn sued Damon Dash, accusing him of improperly keeping and using over 100,000 of her photographs. She had worked on a shoot for Dash’s fashion brand and later claimed he failed to pay her and used the images without her consent.

Bunn said her portfolio included more than 250,000 images and sought $50 million in damages, estimating the value of each photo at $1,500.

Dash denied having the photos and said they were not on the CDs in question.

In 2023, a jury cleared Dash of sexual assault and conversion claims but found him liable for defamation, awarding Bunn $30,000.

Bunn later filed a motion for a new trial, arguing that Dash had acknowledged the value of the photos and that the damages were significant. The court rejected that motion, saying she failed to offer enough evidence to support her claims.

Dash and his attorney have criticized Bunn’s legal team, particularly her lawyer, Christopher Brown, who has filed multiple lawsuits against Dash in the past.

Dash is currently promoting his latest project from Freeway & The Black Guns, titled 365.

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The Weeknd Seeks $1 Billion Deal Using His Music Catalog As Collateral

By: London JennnCategory: News

The Weeknd is aiming to secure a whopping $1 billion in financing using his chart-topping music catalog as collateral without giving up ownership of his rights.

The Grammy Award-winning artist is working with Lyric Capital Group, a New York-based firm that specializes in music royalties, to structure a deal that would immediately deliver $250 million in cash and an additional $750 million in debt, according to Bloomberg.

Rather than selling off his catalog, the plan involves leveraging the remaining half of his publishing rights, which are not currently held by Chord Music Partners. Chord already owns 50 percent of his publishing stake. The move would allow The Weeknd to retain full control of his music while unlocking capital for future ventures in film, television and fashion.

The Weeknd’s catalog includes some of the most commercially successful singles of the past decade, including “Blinding Lights,” “Starboy” and “Can’t Feel My Face.”

Each track continues to generate consistent revenue, making them attractive assets for financial backing. If the deal closes, it could catapult The Weeknd into the billionaire tier of music moguls. However, the high level of debt involved also introduces considerable financial risk.

The move comes as The Weeknd prepares to step away from his stage name and rebrand for his next chapter. He’s currently on the After Hours Til Dawn 2025 stadium tour, which kicked off on May 9 in Phoenix and will wrap up September 20 in Las Vegas. 

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