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Chicago Rapper BabyChiefDoIt Admits ChatGTP Wrote His Lyrics—Purists Go Nuts

By: Houston WilliamsCategory: AHHplus

BabyChiefDoIt is stirring up a storm in across rap with a move that’s got the streets divided. The 17-year-old Chicago-bred rapper recently came clean about using ChatGPT to write his lyrics. Why would he cop to this? Now have have to have the what’s “real” in rap debate again. Some say it’s cheating, others call it smart business. I’m not sure, but I know it isn’t Hip-Hop. 

Hip-Hop has never been a perfect culture. Ghostwriters have been penning verses for legends (and trash rappers) for decades. Industry plants sprout with fully grown fanbases overnight. AI feels different, but is it? BabyChiefDoIt is just playing by 2025’s rules, not 1995’s…I think.

Using AI is definitely not a scandal or a tragic transgression. He seems to be experimenting with a new tool. Pause. ChatGPT is “the help.” If you can use tech to make the process faster, why not? This isn’t Rakim. And yet, it feels like a rough tumble down a rocky hill.

Older heads are clutching their pearls.

What we can say is the kid is honest. He’s not pretending these bars are all his own. At one point he said he requested somebody to write his next song. He’s straight up, “Yeah, I used AI.” 

Rap is changing. I don’t know if this is good or the worst thing ever. Some people think this is an “adapt or die” moment. You can adapt and uphold the standards, too.BabyChiefDoIt will keep his name in the mix and we’ll push his career further just by writing this.

Here are some comments.

“I think there will be a new generation of artist and fans who will have ai normalized and not think anything of this. Personally, I can’t really cosign doing it.” – Rapper and writer Rob Markman

“Using AI like this will lead to the downfall of the entire music industry. Where is the creativity?”

“I’ve never checked him out but he always seemed cool 🙁 lost a lot of respect for this.”

“Man I’d rather write bars off the dome than do s### like this. Where’s the soul & personality to the lyrics? Where’s the authenticity?”

“Your favorite rappers are already doing this”

Rap evolves. I just hope it’s not a devolution in disguise. That is a real thing too. BabyChiefDoIt just might be riding the wave into music history.

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And yes, he looks just like Riley!    

The Cool Kids Are Back—Dedicate “Foil Bass” Single To Mac Miller

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: News

The Cool Kids—the innovative Blog Era-defining duo comprised of Chuck Inglish and Sir Michael Rocks—are back with another new single and video, “Foil Bass,” the second offering from their forthcoming album, Hi-Top Fade.

Toward the end of the visual, there’s dedication to the late Mac Miller, who died of a drug overdose on September 7, 2018. The track follows “Banana in the Tailpipe,” which arrived last month.

Serving as their sixth studio album, Hi-Top Fade reunites Chuck and Mikey with A-Trak’s label, Fool’s Gold, home of The Cool Kids’ early hits, including “Gold and a Pager” and “88.”

“This track is coming at a perfect time,” Mikey tells AllHipHop. “We’re not here to give you microwaved beats and one-size-fits-all raps. We tapped into that raw energy that made you nod your head to a rap song for the first time. Clever, memorable lines that clearly let you know where we come from—and where we’re headed.”

Chuck adds, “As far as the beat goes, we wanted to make music you could bump in your car.”

Emerging in the mid-2000s, The Cool Kids helped usher in a new era of Hip-Hop by tapping into the do-it-yourself ethos of the digital age: rather than relying on radio, they found massive success on blogs and social media platforms like MySpace, inspiring a young generation of artists to build their own lanes online.

Musically, The Cool Kids are credited with reconnecting contemporary Hip-Hop to its roots—channeling stripped-down, 1980s boom-bap beats and a playful, party-centric attitude—while simultaneously pushing boundaries with fashion, wit and a message of self-expression.

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Their influence can be traced through Chicago’s modern rap scene, having encouraged now-prominent acts to embrace individualism and experimentation rather than conform to prevailing mainstream trends. At a time when flashy bravado dominated the rap landscape, The Cool Kids stood out by encouraging listeners to be themselves, sparking a movement that reshaped both the sound and culture of Hip-Hop for a new generation.

Previous releases include 2022’s Before S### Got Weird (Chapter 1), Baby Oil Staircase (Chapter 2) and Chillout (Chapter 3) as well as 2017’s Special Edition Grand Master Deluxe and their 2008 EP, The Bake Sale. Stay tuned for updates on the album release date.

Teyana Taylor Ordered To Pay Iman Shumpert $70K in Divorce Contempt Case

By: London JennnCategory: News

Teyana Taylor was ordered by a Georgia court to pay her ex-husband, Iman Shumpert, $70,000 in legal fees after being found in contempt of court related to their ongoing divorce dispute.

The judge ruled Taylor violated a clause in their 2024 divorce judgment that prohibited either party from disclosing details about the settlement.

Shumpert claimed Taylor breached this agreement when she posted an Instagram video in March 2025 discussing their split, and the court agreed that this was a willful violation.

According to Us Weekly, the court dismissed Taylor’s accusations that Shumpert leaked divorce details to the media, noting she failed to provide evidence and lacked diligence in her contempt claim.

Taylor previously accused Shupert of intentionally releasing sealed court records to the media and asked for the judge to sentence him to jail time.

Shumpert claimed it was Taylor who leaked divorce documents and also urged the court to jail Taylor.

Taylor’s request for Shumpert to pay her legal fees was denied, and the judge noted that Taylor refused to answer questions about her financial situation during the case.

The court described Taylor as “willfully” in contempt based on the disclosure and her ability to pay, noting her active career with film and TV projects following the divorce.

Teyana Taylor and Iman Shumpert were married in 2016 and have two daughters together; Taylor filed for divorce in January 2023, citing “cruel treatment” and accusing Shumpert of emotional abuse, which he denies.

The $70,000 payment to Shumpert’s lawyer is due within two weeks of the court order date.

Teyana Taylor Announces Musical Comeback

Meanwhile, Taylor is gearing up for a return to music after announcing her retirement five years ago. She announced her fourth studio album, Escape Room, set to be released on August 22.

This album marks her return to music after announcing her retirement five years ago; it is her fourth studio album.

Earlier this week, during an appearance on the “Joe and Jada” podcast, she previewed a new song, “The Hard Part,” featuring Lucky Daye. 

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UMG Boss Lucian Grainge Slams Drake’s “Groundless” Kendrick Lamar Lawsuit Claims

By: London JennnCategory: News

Universal Music Group (UMG) CEO Lucian Grainge is firing back at Drake’s latest legal push in the rapper’s defamation lawsuit over Kendrick Lamar’s viral diss track “Not Like Us.”

In a sworn declaration, Grainge said he “had never heard” the track — nor seen its cover art or music video — until after Interscope Records released it.

He called any suggestion that he approved or promoted the song “groundless and indeed ridiculous,” stressing that as UMG’s chief executive, his focus is on global strategy, not day-to-day release decisions.

Labeling Drake’s claims “farcical,” Grainge pointed out UMG’s long history of investing in the Toronto superstar, including hundreds of millions of dollars in support, the purchase of most of his recording catalog, and the acquisition of his publishing rights.

The pushback comes after Drake’s attorneys moved to have Grainge added as a document custodian in the case — a move UMG’s lawyers blasted as a “transparent attempt to harass” the company and waste resources “out of spite.”

Drake’s legal team argues that top UMG brass, including Grainge, had contractual authority over Lamar’s music and deliberately released and promoted “Not Like Us” despite knowing it contained defamatory allegations.

They claim UMG sought to devalue Drake’s brand to gain leverage in contract renegotiations, citing internal label competition.

The motion demands Grainge’s emails and texts, Kendrick Lamar’s full contract with UMG, and all documents related to contract negotiations for both artists, as well as any discussions of alleged crimes by Lamar, covering January 2023 through May 2024.

Lil Yachty Ripped Over Distasteful George Floyd Bar: “You Been Wack”

By: London JennnCategory: News

Lil Yachty is facing intense criticism after dropping an eyebrow-raising lyric about George Floyd during Plaqueboymax’s livestream on Thursday (August 14).

In the snippet, Yachty raps, “Put my knee up on her neck, I went George Floyd,” a line that almost immediately set social media ablaze with criticism.

Many called it tasteless and flat-out disrespectful, given the tragedy of Floyd’s death in 2020.

One person who wasn’t about to let it slide was former NBA player and podcaster Stephen Jackson, a childhood friend of George Floyd.

Jackson tore into Yachty online, saying, “Lil Yachty, bro. You been wack, my n####. But you think you saying George Floyd name, and trying to use his name in a bar, that’s gonna make people like your wack-ass music, my n####? That s### weak.”

He went on to call out what he sees as a broader trend in rap: “Y’all the only era that feel like demeaning the dead and saying that s### is cool. It ain’t.”

Jackson didn’t stop there. He warned Yachty to never speak Floyd’s name again, stressing that none of these rappers actually knew him.

“Y’all wanna say his name for clout,” he added. “That’s some weak-ass s###, Yachty. Let somebody die in your family, we gonna do a whole skit about it. And see how funny it is. Cut that s### out.”

Social media users echoed Jackson’s anger, calling Yachty “corny” and “lame” for crossing the line.

George Floyd’s death — caused by former officer Derek Chauvin kneeling on his neck for over nine minutes during an arrest — became a defining moment in the fight against police brutality.

His last words, “I can’t breathe,” fueled worldwide protests.

Cardi B Returns With JAY-Z–Approved “Imaginary Playerz”

By: London JennnCategory: News

Cardi B lit up the internet with her new single “Imaginary Playerz,” released August 15 as the second offering from her upcoming sophomore album, Am I the Drama? (out September 19, 2025).

The track samples JAY-Z’s 1997 classic “Imaginary Players,” with Hov himself personally signing off on the clearance.

Cardi flexes over the iconic beat, with lines like: “Now I spit that other s###, pretty m########### s###/Cardi B, every song platinum, I’m not the other b####/Whatever you was gon’ pay hеr, you gotta double it/Gloryhole, b###### don’t know who thеy f#####’ with.”

The accompanying music video doubles down on the luxury vibe, with scenes of Cardi on a private jet and yacht.

Speaking in an X Spaces earlier this week, Cardi B revealed that Jay-Z personally had to approve her use of the “Imaginary Players” sample for her upcoming single.

“If he didn’t approve it, I probably wouldn’t even feel a certain type of way neither, because it’s like, ‘OK, maybe I just had to come a little bit harder,'” she explained. “But I’m glad that I came hard and he loved it.”

She also revealed her manager texted to confirm the sample clearance came at exactly 4:44 P.M., a nod to the symbolism of his 4:44 album and her personal angel number.

Cardi B Fans Go Wild For “Imaginary Playerz”

Cardi B was trending in the top spot on X (Twitter) after the song was released.

Following the release, Cardi trended at No. 1 on X (Twitter), with fans praising her for reviving a classic Hip-Hop feel.

One wrote, “This type of hip hop is missing in today’s music… Cardi bringing some of that Kim/ Foxy, real rap energy back. Setting the bar once again.” Another said, “Just go ahead & give Cardi B her muthafuckin’ 10s!” while a third declared, “OH CARDI B CHEWED THIS UP — SHE’S SO BACK OMFG.”

“Imaginary Playerz” is featured on Am I the Drama?, which is set to be released September 19.

EXCLUSIVE: Doechii Concert Turned Out To Be Scam—Company Says It Lost Almost $200K

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

A $187,500 concert deposit to book rapper Doechii is at the center of a lawsuit filed by an Atlanta-based event firm that claims it was duped by a fake booking scheme.

Blackout Management LLC says it wired the money to New Jersey booking agent Christopher Young in December 2024, trusting his promise to secure Doechii and SiR for Baltimore’s AFRAM Festival.

Young allegedly claimed he had direct access to the artists through their label, Top Dawg Entertainment.

But according to a federal complaint filed in Atlanta, the deal unraveled by March 2025 when Young suddenly told Blackout the performers were no longer available due to tour commitments.

After months of delays and excuses, Blackout contacted TDE directly and learned Young had never booked Doechii and had only held brief conversations about SiR.

The company says it never received artist contracts, promotional materials or any signed documents. The deposit, it claims, was never passed on to TDE.

Instead, Young and his company, Sacrifice Management LLC, kept the funds.

Blackout demanded a refund. Young allegedly agreed—twice. He signed settlement agreements in May and July 2025 but failed to pay either time, according to the lawsuit.

Now, Blackout is suing for fraud, negligent misrepresentation, conversion, unjust enrichment and other claims. The company is asking for at least $187,500 in damages, plus interest, legal fees and punitive damages.

The AFRAM Festival, held annually in Baltimore, is one of the largest cultural events on the East Coast and draws over 150,000 attendees per day. It serves as the city’s official Juneteenth celebration.

Sadly, this isn’t the only recent case of a concert deal gone wrong involving a major Hip-Hop artist,

Esmail Entertainment filed a $2.5 million lawsuit against Shaw Management Enterprises over a canceled GloRilla show scheduled for September 6, 2025, in Cleveland.

That suit alleges Shaw forged contracts for GloRilla, Moneybagg Yo and Skilla Baby and collected over $280,000 in deposits. GloRilla’s team confirmed she never agreed to perform and only $20,000 has been returned so far.

Esmail’s lawsuit includes six claims, including fraud and civil theft. It also accuses Shaw of interfering with business operations after abruptly halting event promotion just two days after ticket sales began.

Wendy Williams’ Dementia Diagnosis Confirmed – Here Are The Facts

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

Wendy Williams’ court-ordered guardianship will remain in place after doctors reaffirmed she is living with frontotemporal dementia and aphasia, People reported.

The 60-year-old former talk show host underwent a detailed medical evaluation that included neuropsychological testing and brain imaging, according to court documents cited by the outlet. Physicians concluded she continues to experience the same conditions first identified in 2023.

Williams has been under the care of a court-appointed guardian, attorney Sabrina Morrissey, since May 2022. Morrissey oversees both her financial matters and medical needs while the arrangement faces challenges from relatives and her ex-husband, Kevin Hunter.

During a recent hearing, the guardian’s legal team requested that the arrangement be extended through November 3, 2025. Judge Sokoloff, who is presiding over the case, will determine whether Morrissey should remain in that role.

Court filings show Kevin Hunter has filed a $250 million lawsuit and joined other family members in questioning whether guardianship is still necessary. Attorneys for Williams have also raised concerns over her autonomy.

In February 2024, Williams’ medical team made her diagnosis public, explaining that the progressive neurological conditions were already impacting her speech and cognitive abilities.

“The decision to share this news was difficult and made after careful consideration, not only to advocate for understanding and compassion for Wendy, but to raise awareness about aphasia and frontotemporal dementia and support the thousands of others facing similar circumstances,” they said. “Unfortunately, many individuals diagnosed with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia face stigma and misunderstanding, particularly when they begin to exhibit behavioral changes but have not yet received a diagnosis,” Wendy Williams’ care team said at the team.

Frontotemporal dementia affects the brain’s frontal and temporal lobes, while aphasia limits the ability to communicate.

The court has continued to side with medical experts, concluding that professional oversight remains necessary for her safety and well-being. Legal proceedings are ongoing, with both family and former spouse pressing for changes to the arrangement.

Williams’ attorney Joe Tacopina spoke to TMZ and said the assumed diagnosis is being weaponized by people with a “vested interest in keeping Wendy trapped under this excessive and restrictive guardianship.”

“Who is the doctor willing to go under oath and face cross-examination by me so the truth can be exposed?” Tacopina said.

For now, Williams’ finances and health care decisions will stay in the hands of her guardian, as the court weighs the competing claims ahead of the November 2025 deadline.

Jussie Smollett Case Goes Under Microscope Again In Netflix Documentary

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: News

Jussie Smollett and the polarizing saga surrounding his 2019 hate crime report are back in the spotlight as Netflix prepares to release a new documentary that reopens the case and questions everything the public thought they knew.

Titled The Truth About Jussie Smollett?, the film drops August 22 and dives headfirst into the high-profile investigation that gripped headlines and fueled national debate.

Directed by Gagan Rehill and produced by RAW—the team behind Don’t F**k With Cats and The Tinder Swindler—the documentary features interviews with police officials, legal experts, journalists and Smollett himself.

The film promises to shed light on what some claim is newly uncovered evidence.

Smollett, who rose to fame on the hit series Empire, made headlines in January 2019 when he told Chicago police he was the victim of a racist and homophobic attack.

He said two MAGA men used slurs, poured a chemical on him and placed a noose around his neck.

In the trailer, former Chicago Police Department detective Melissa Staples recalls her initial reaction.

“They see an actor called Jussie Smollett with a noose around his neck. He says he was the victim of a hate crime. I thought it was a horrible crime at first until it started to fall apart,” she said.

Then-superintendent Eddie Johnson also expressed doubts early in the case.

“Some elements struck me as a bit peculiar. We were experiencing a polar vortex at that time. Who would be outside in such frigid conditions,” Johnson said.

After a lengthy investigation, Chicago police concluded Smollett staged the attack and hired two brothers to carry it out. He was charged with felony disorderly conduct for filing a false report.

In a controversial move, the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office dropped the charges after Smollett forfeited a $10,000 bond and completed community service. A special prosecutor later refiled charges, citing “substantial abuses of discretion.”

A jury convicted Smollett in December 2021 on five counts of lying to police. But in November 2024, the Illinois Supreme Court reversed the convictions, ruling that the second prosecution violated his due process rights based on the original agreement with prosecutors.

Four Years Have Passed Since Zumbi’s Death…And Still No Justice

By: Kyle EusticeCategory: News

Four years have passed since Zumbi—the enlightened, supremely talented MC from Zion I—checked in to the Alta Bates Hospital in Berkeley and never checked out. Circumstances surrounding his death remain suspicious and have been suspicious since day one.

But Zumbi’s loved ones, peers and fans aren’t going to let his legacy fade nor will they stop shouting about his death until justice is served.

On Wednesday (August 13), Zumbi’s former partner held the annual “Justice For Zumbi” vigil at Clarion Alley in San Francisco’s Mission District. A giant portrait of Zumbi’s profile looms in the background with the words: “Let Your Inner Light Shine. Baba Zumbi Forever. Zion I.”

As explained in the caption, Zumbi’s death wasn’t perceived as an “accident.”

“On August 13th 2021, Steve was murdered inside Alta Bates hospital,” the caption reads. “Almost 4 years later, there is no Justice! We need the community, we need your support. Please share this and be present!”

Mere days after Zumbi’s death, Berkeley police began investigating it as a homicide. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, Zumbi allegedly got into a physical altercation with multiple hospital employees while recovering from COVID-19.

Lt. Melanie Turner said police responded to calls at 5:16 a.m. local time from patients and staff at the hospital about a patient involved in a physical altercation with nurses and security officers, who reportedly had him pinned down on the ground.

Turner said upon arrival “officers started handcuffing the involved person and determined that he needed immediate medical assistance.” Police began lifesaving measures until Alta Bates staff were able to assist, but “unfortunately and sadly he was pronounced deceased on the scene.”

But DJ True Justice said a physical altercation sounded out of character for Zumbi.

“Steve was not a violent person; he never sought violence; he never condoned violence,” he told the publication at the time. “However, I know as a person, I know Steve is very firm in his beliefs.”

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True Justice initially said Zumbi was recovering from COVID-19 but suffered a massive asthma attack at the hospital and wasn’t able to recover. Although Zumbi respected the mask mandate, he didn’t “subscribe to mainstream media, specifically in regard to the current global pandemic” and “wasn’t an advocate of being vaccinated.”

True Justice also confirmed Zumbi and at least 30 other people had tested positive for the virus following his last performance on July 24, 2021 in the Sierra foothills town of Nevada City.

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The Gaines family released a statement to the The Chronicle, which read, “We are in a deep state of grief and processing this loss. We are awaiting further details from the hospital at this time so we can understand exactly what happened and determine our next steps.”

In February 2022, Zumbi’s mother, Carolyn Gaines, pleaded for the investigation to proceed, saying there’s been no progress because police are waiting on a coroner’s report.

“I am dedicated to seeking justice for his killing,” she wrote in a statement. “My son did not die from COVID. My son did not die from a heart attack. We are waiting for the Berkeley police to complete their homicide investigation. They say their delay is caused by not having a completed coroner’s report. I beg the officials to complete their official duties.”

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Carolyn Gaines begged for the Alta Bates Summit Medical Center and Allied Universal to be held responsible for her son’s death.

“I pray that as soon as the Alameda County District Attorney reviews the evidence that they will prosecute Alta Bates, Allied Universal and their employees for killing my beautiful son,” she wrote. “We ask for your consideration and understanding as this process moves forward.

“There will be a time for thoughtful, peaceful and considered action from the community. For now, we seek your respect, support and understanding as we grieve and seek answers.”

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In October 2022, Carolyn Gaines addressed the status of her son’s case after The Mercury News erroneously published a story claiming the investigation was closed.

“Nothing has been finalized on criminal charges related to my son’s death,” Gaines said. “I feel assured and confident that this case is not over and criminal charges remain likely. I am holding steadfast that the institutions responsible for my son’s death will be held accountable.”

Zumbi was a father to three sons and loved by many. After he died, social media erupted with posts about how special he was. Find some of those below.

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Denzel Washington Reveals He’s “A Closet Rapper”

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

Denzel Washington stunned A$AP Rocky and audiences alike with a freestyle rap battle in Highest 2 Lowest, Spike Lee’s latest film, where the Oscar winner plays a powerful music executive named David King.

The scene pits Washington’s character against Rocky’s Yung Felon inside a recording studio, but what caught everyone off guard was how much of Washington’s performance wasn’t scripted.

Instead of sticking to the page, Washington dropped verses from legends like Nas, Tupac, DMX and Outkast, leaving Rocky visibly impressed. His delivery wasn’t just convincing—it was personal.

“I’ve been a closet rapper for 40 years. Finally, I get the chance,” Washington told the Associated Press.

A$AP Rocky, no stranger to lyrical competition, admitted Washington outperformed him in the scene.

“He’s a Hip-Hop encyclopedia,” A$AP Rocky said, praising Washington’s deep knowledge of rap history and current artists.

The actor’s admiration for Hip-Hop became even more apparent off-camera. During interviews, Washington rapped along to Nas’s “N.Y. State of Mind” and quoted lyrics from DMX and Outkast without missing a beat.

“I have been practicing for a long time, and nobody knew! I never had the platform,” Washington said, explaining how his passion for Hip-Hop remained private until now.

Despite borrowing lines from iconic artists, Washington’s delivery and energy made it feel like the rhymes were his own. Rocky, who’s built a rap career, acknowledged the veteran actor’s unexpected skills.

The film, which blends drama and music, allowed Denzel Washington to tap into a side of himself he’d kept hidden for decades. While his character is fictional, the performance revealed a real part of Washington’s identity.

Highest 2 Lowest marks a rare moment where Washington’s love for Hip-Hop wasn’t just referenced—it was performed.

The film lands in select theaters on August 15 and is expected to expand nationwide later this month.

Author Dave Anderson Questions “Breakfast Club” Interview Delay

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: Exclusives

Author and business mentor Dave Anderson—aka “The Business Bully”—taped a whole interview with The Breakfast Club interview on June 25. Problem is… it’s now deep into August and that thing is still M.I.A. Anderson is a pretty big deal and some of us remember he was Tazz Daddy. What a name.

Now, Anderson isn’t some random guest. He’s pushing his 22nd consecutive bestseller, The Real Black Agenda, and let’s just say the man isn’t shy about calling out fake leadership, industry exploitation and agendas that don’t really help Black folks. He has definitely ruffled a few feathers.

So…let me back up a big. There’s no “word on the street,” because we talked to him. From his own mouth, Anderson says nothing wild went down in the studio. He says the interview was positive, everyone was cool and he’s known Charlamagne for decades. They are cool, but something is holding up the interview.

“I don’t know why it hasn’t dropped,” Anderson told AllHipHop. “I’ve known Charlamagne for 20 years, their producers for 30. They knew what the book was, had it in digital and physical form. I didn’t say anything I haven’t said publicly before. We had a great conversation.”

Is it just a scheduling backlog? Did he upset the wrong person? Or is it just “the game,” because stuff happens. The man known as “The Business Bully” is keeping it classy. He isn’t going to leak his own interview. “It’s not about me or the book,” he said. “It’s about the message.”

I guess we have to see.

If you have gotten this far, you can catch an early peak at the full interview below. This is what you would call an “a lot” interview.

LL COOL J Locks In Solo Hosting Gig & VMA Nomination For 2025 Show

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

LL COOL J will take center stage at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, marking his first time as the sole host of the iconic event, set for September 7 at New York’s UBS Arena.

The Hip-Hop legend isn’t just steering the show—he’s also in the running for Best Hip-Hop thanks to “Murdergram Deaux,” his collaboration with Eminem from his 2024 album The F.O.R.C.E.

His double-duty role places him at the heart of one of music’s biggest nights.

This year’s solo gig follows his 2022 co-hosting turn with Jack Harlow and Nicki Minaj. He steps into a role previously held by Megan Thee Stallion in 2024 and by Minaj in 2023.

LL’s relationship with the VMAs spans decades. He won Best Rap Video in 1991 for “Mama Said Knock You Out” and became the first rapper to receive the Video Vanguard Award in 1997.

He’s also delivered performances at the last two VMA ceremonies.

Beyond the VMAs, LL COOL J has racked up a long list of hosting credits. He led the Grammys for five consecutive years from 2012 to 2016 and has helmed the iHeartRadio Music Awards, Soul Train Music Awards and American Music Awards.

This year’s VMA nominations are led by Lady Gaga with 12, followed by Bruno Mars with 11 and Kendrick Lamar with 10. Sabrina Carpenter and Rosé each earned eight nods, while Ariana Grande and The Weeknd picked up seven apiece.

The 2025 recipient of the Video Vanguard Award has not yet been revealed.

Woman Who Gave Drop On Julio Foolio Heading To Trial For Setting Him Up

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

Alicia Andrews will be the first of five defendants to stand trial in the killing of Julio Foolio, the Jacksonville rapper gunned down in Tampa during his 26th birthday celebration, in what authorities say was a targeted ambush tied to a long-running gang feud.

Andrews, who is accused of trailing Foolio and tipping off his location to the alleged gunmen, is scheduled to face a jury starting Monday, August 18, in Hillsborough County.

Prosecutors claim she played a key role in setting up the fatal shooting that took place in the early hours of June 23, 2024, outside a Holiday Inn near the University of South Florida.

According to Court TV, Andrews was charged with first-degree premeditated murder alongside her boyfriend, Isaiah Chance Jr., and three other men: Sean Gathright, Rashad Murphy and Davion Murphy. The state is pursuing the death penalty for some of the accused.

Surveillance footage from the Home2 Suites parking lot captured three masked shooters opening fire on Foolio’s vehicle.

The attack killed him and injured three others. Investigators say the suspects followed Foolio across Tampa as he moved between party spots, eventually catching up with him after he posted his location on social media.

Prosecutors allege the murder was part of a broader gang rivalry between Foolio’s KTA crew and Yungeen Ace‘s ATK group, which has seen years of escalating violence.

Their feud intensified after Foolio’s cousin was killed in 2017, and both rappers have taken jabs at each other in music and online.

Andrews’ defense team attempted to introduce claims of domestic abuse to explain her mental state at the time of the incident.

However, Judge Michelle Sisco sided with the prosecution, ruling that Florida law does not allow duress as a defense in premeditated murder cases. The court deemed the evidence inadmissible.

Opening statements in Andrews’ trial are expected to begin Tuesday, with more than 100 potential jurors called to court. Witness testimony will follow throughout the week.

The trial begins August 18 in Hillsborough County.

Will Smith’s Anti-Violence Quote Resurfaces & Internet Isn’t Buying It

By: London JennnCategory: News

Will Smith found himself back in the hot seat Wednesday (August 13) after a 2016 interview clip resurfaced online, racking up more than eight million views overnight and reigniting debate over his past and present views on violence.

In the viral throwback, originally recorded by The Hollywood Reporter, Smith explained why he passed on the lead role in Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained, citing a clash in vision with the director.

While he was initially on board, Smith said the film’s focus on revenge didn’t sit right with him.

“We sat for hours and hours and hours about it. I love it, I wanted to make that movie so badly, but with that story, I felt the only way I could make that movie is it had to be a love story, not a vengeance story,” Smith said in the clip.

“I don’t believe in violence as the reaction to violence,” he added. “It has to be for love… violence begets violence.”

That stance didn’t age well in the eyes of many online, especially after Smith’s now-infamous slap at the 94th Academy Awards.

Social media users wasted no time pointing out the contradiction between his anti-violence comments and his onstage assault of Chris Rock during the 2022 Oscars.

One user wrote, “‘…and that’s when I decided to slap the s### out of Chris Rock.'” Another chimed in, “He can smack a n#### publicly but he can’t kill a slavemaster.”

A third added, “This bums me out because I think he was in the right for slapping Chris Rock and I wish he applied that same logic towards revolution.”

Will Smith Says “Love Will Make You Do Crazy Things” After Oscars Slap

The slap, which occurred during Rock’s presentation for Best Documentary Feature, was in response to a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s shaved head, a result of her alopecia diagnosis.

Smith went on to win Best Actor for King Richard later that night.

Ironically, during his acceptance speech, Smith said, “Love will make you do crazy things.”

The original Django Unchained role eventually went to Jamie Foxx, who starred alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Christoph Waltz in the 2012 film

Kid Cudi “Done” With Kanye West: ‘It’s A Sad Thing’

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

Kid Cudi has officially cut ties with Kanye West, citing betrayal and a disrespectful jab at their late friend Virgil Abloh as the final straw in a fractured friendship that once shaped Hip-Hop collaborations.

In a sit-down with CBS Mornings that aired Wednesday (August 13), the “Day ‘n’ Nite” rapper reflected on the end of his creative and personal bond with Ye, calling it both painful and permanent.

“It’s a sad thing,” Cudi told journalist Anthony Mason, who asked him to elaborate. “The freedom that we experienced when we were creating, it just will never happen ever again, you know? And that is the heartbreaking side of things.”

When pressed on whether West had broken his heart, Cudi didn’t hesitate. “I think he has over and over, multiple times.”

The two artists shared a prolific history, teaming up on the 2018 joint album Kids See Ghosts and co-writing tracks like 2008’s “Heartless” and 2009’s “Make Her Say.”

But their creative synergy eventually gave way to personal tension, especially as West’s public behavior grew more erratic and controversial.

In recent years, West has been widely condemned for antisemitic remarks and for publicly praising Adolf Hitler — moves that cost him major business deals and drew backlash across the industry.

Still, Cudi made it clear that it wasn’t just West’s public controversies that ended their relationship. It was a personal betrayal.

“He said some things that there’s just no coming back from,” Cudi said, referencing comments West made about Abloh, the late fashion visionary and former artistic director at Louis Vuitton, who died of a rare cancer in 2021.

“Every time he took a dig at Virgil, it just made me super angry. Virgil was an angel to everyone; there’s no coming back from that, man.”

Cudi said the emotional toll of watching someone he once considered a close friend change into someone unrecognizable was devastating.

“Like, I’m done with you, and it breaks my heart, because I loved Kanye, you know? I really loved him, he was a part of my life changing. And at some point, he was a really good friend, but the man that he has become, I just don’t know that guy anymore. I don’t know him, I don’t know that version of him, and it’s really heartbreaking.”

Rick Ross Urges Laila Ali To Accept Claressa Shields’ $15M Fight Offer

By: London JennnCategory: News

Rick Ross jumped into the middle of a brewing boxing saga on Wednesday (August 13) by tagging Claressa Shields and her partner Papoose on Instagram Stories, urging a high-stakes fight between Shields and Laila Ali to actually happen.

Rozay’s social media nudge came just hours after Ali addressed the $15 million offer Shields floated for a potential bout.

Shields wasted no time firing back at Ross’ post with a jab of her own, writing, “@TheRealLailaAli is scared Boss!!!”

Ali, during an appearance on Good Day DC earlier that day, clarified her stance on the rumored comeback.

While she acknowledged previously saying it would take $15 to $20 million to even consider lacing up the gloves again, she made it clear she didn’t initiate the back-and-forth.

“She inserted herself into the conversation,” Ali said, referring to Shields.

Ali explained that she hasn’t responded to Shields directly because “that’s not my focus right now.” She also revealed she’s currently weighing “multiple offers” in the $15 million range.

Though she didn’t rule out the possibility of facing Shields, Ali said she’s still mulling over the idea.

“I’m thinking about it,” she said. “Very soon the world will know my answer to that in detail.” She added that she’s deliberately stayed quiet about the chatter surrounding the fight. “I call the shots. I do what I want to do, how I want to do it.”

Ali acknowledged the buzz around the potential matchup but reminded viewers that she’s been out of the ring for nearly two decades.

Between raising a family and running a business, she said any decision to return to boxing would need serious thought.

Later, she posted a clip from the interview on Instagram and doubled down in the caption: “I have NOT given an answer either way as to whether I will or won’t be coming out of retirement to box again….AND no one from my team has given any response about MY PLANS going forward. Don’t believe the hype!”

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Meanwhile, Rick Ross recently walked Claressa Shields to victory ahead of her dominant showing against Lani Daniels last month. 

Wendy Williams’ Lawyer Blasts “False” Dementia Re-Diagnosis Claims Amid Guardianship Battle

By: London JennnCategory: News

Wendy Williams is once again at the center of a legal and medical storm as her attorney Joe Tacopina forcefully rejected leaked reports claiming she’s been re-diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia and aphasia, calling the allegations “false” and part of a calculated effort to keep her under strict guardianship.

Tacopina told TMZ the supposed diagnosis is being weaponized by individuals with a “vested interest in keeping Wendy trapped under this excessive and restrictive guardianship.”

He challenged the legitimacy of the leak, demanding proof and accountability.

“The critical questions are these,” Tacopina said. “Where is the actual medical report supporting this leak? And who is the doctor willing to go under oath and face cross-examination by me so the truth can be exposed?”

He made it clear that neither he nor Williams has seen the alleged medical file that reportedly confirms the diagnosis. Instead, he painted the leak as a strategic move to justify continued control over the former talk show host’s life and finances.

Wendy Williams has been under a court-appointed guardianship since 2022 and has previously disputed the dementia claims.

She has requested that new, independent evaluations be carried out to demonstrate her mental soundness, insisting that earlier assessments were manipulated.

Earlier this week, People reported that Williams’ guardianship was extended after a court reviewed a series of medical evaluations, including brain scans and neuropsychological tests.

The documents reportedly reaffirmed her diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia and aphasia, first identified in 2023.

Court-appointed guardian Sabrina Morrissey has requested the guardianship remain in place until at least Tuesday (November 5, 2025).

Jim Jones Feared For His Life After His Cadillac SUV Failed Mid-Drive

By: London JennnCategory: News

Jim Jones found himself in a dangerous situation early Thursday morning (August 14) when his high-end Cadillac SUV lost power in the middle of the road, leaving him stranded and panicked as trucks passed by.

The Harlem rapper posted a video from the scene, showing his vehicle completely disabled.

“In the middle of nowhere, bro; in the middle of the road, too,” he said, panning the camera to show his stalled SUV sitting in traffic. “I’ll tell you how dangerous this is, there’s trucks coming bro.”

Jones said the vehicle, which he claims cost over $100,000, cut off while he was stopped at a light.

“Almost risked my life,” he said, explaining that this wasn’t the first time the issue had occurred.

According to Jones, the only part of the vehicle that remained functional was the key lock, but even that couldn’t help him move the car to safety. He said he’s already returned the SUV to the dealership five times and replaced the engine twice, but the issue keeps happening.

“Now I’m worried bout my life when I’m drivin,” he said.

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In the caption of his video, Jones called out the automaker directly. “Yal help me out and hit @cadillac for me cause I e spoken to regional mangers bout this and they don’t seem to think this is puttin a person life in danger till one of these engines fail at th wrong time.”

He added that he’s “pleaded wit them tht this truck is a danger,” and said he would be calling AAA to tow the vehicle back to the dealership—again.

This marks the sixth time in the past year Jones has had to bring the SUV in for repairs.

Jim Jones Shoots Music Video In Harlem

Earlier this week, Jones made headlines for a different driving stunt—filming a music video while seated at a dining table on top of a moving flatbed truck.

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Lil Yachty Reveals He Manifested Drake Collab While Tripping On Acid

By: London JennnCategory: News

Lil Yachty opened up about his friendship with Drake, crediting an acid trip for kickstarting their creative bond.

The Atlanta rapper and frequent Drake collaborator reflected on how their creative connection began during a livestream Wednesday night (August 13).

“I manifested it, bro,” Yachty said during his appearance on PlaqueBoyMax’s stream. “I was doing acid one night, bro, and I was like, man, I would really love to work with Drake, man. That’s like one of my favorite rappers. I was just talking to the abyss, like I was speaking to a higher power, and I manifested it. I did.”

He added, “This was years ago. This is before we ever did anything.”

The Atlanta rapper’s vision eventually turned into a full-fledged creative partnership.

Their first official track together, “Oprah’s Bank Account,” dropped in 2020 and marked the beginning of a steady working relationship. Since then, Yachty has played a behind-the-scenes role on several major Drake projects.

Lil Yachty holds writing and production credits on multiple songs from Drake’s 2023 album For All The Dogs and Her Loss, his joint project with 21 Savage.

The collaboration goes beyond the studio, with both artists referring to each other as “brothers” despite occasional speculation about tension—most recently over a leaked track last year.

Drake made it clear just how much Yachty’s input shaped For All The Dogs, telling him directly, “I don’t think this album is what it is if I don’t get to run everything by you. If I don’t get to sit in the studio and write with you, and think with you, and if you don’t send me beats, and if you don’t tell me what you believe in or don’t believe in.”