Judge Tossed Lawsuit Over “Country Grammar” Contributions
Nelly secured a legal win in Missouri after a federal judge dismissed a lawsuit filed by Ali of the St. Lunatics and sanctioned his attorneys for pursuing what the court called a baseless case.
Ali Jones, a longtime collaborator and member of Nelly’s Hip-Hop group, sued the rapper for copyright infringement and unjust enrichment. He claimed he was denied credit and compensation for work on Nelly’s 2000 debut album, “Country Grammar.” But U.S. District Judge Audrey G. Fleissig shut down the case, ruling that the claims were either invalid under the law, filed too late or both.
Court Cited Missed Deadline and Bad Faith Filing
The court found that Ali received a letter from Nelly’s legal team in June 2021 clearly stating he was not considered an author and would not be paid. That communication, the judge said, triggered the three-year statute of limitations for a copyright claim. Ali didn’t file his lawsuit until after that window closed.
“Ali’s claims are barred by the statute of limitations,” Judge Fleissig wrote. “He was clearly and expressly informed in June 2021 that he was not considered an author and would not be paid.”
Ali’s attorneys tried to sidestep the timing issue by modifying the complaint and omitting key dates. The court said that tactic showed bad faith.
“The Court finds that Plaintiffs’ counsel acted unreasonably and vexatiously in continuing to pursue claims that were clearly time-barred and preempted,” the ruling stated.
Judge Sanctioned Ali’s Attorneys Over Meritless Case
The court also rejected Ali’s unjust enrichment argument, stating it was essentially a duplicate of the copyright claim, which is not allowed under federal law.
Because the case lacked legal merit, the judge ordered Ali’s lawyers to pay a $1,000 penalty and reimburse Nelly for legal expenses incurred after the original complaint. Ali himself was not fined, but the judge criticized both him and his legal team for pushing forward without a valid basis.
“The Court finds that sanctions are warranted,” the ruling said. “Counsel should have recognized early on that the claims lacked merit.”
Final Ruling Ends Two-Decade Dispute
The judge emphasized that Nelly’s 2021 response left no uncertainty about Ali’s lack of rights to the music in question. The ruling, filed in late April, officially ends Ali’s attempt to claim authorship on songs from “Country Grammar” more than 20 years after its release.
Kylie Jenner Debuts “Fourth Strike” With Terror Jr
Kylie Jenner entered the music scene from Los Angeles on Monday night with her first official single “Fourth Strike,” a collaboration with Terror Jr that also marked the return of her King Kylie persona. The track premiered on her YouTube channel and reignited years-old rumors about her interest in recording music.
The 28-year-old mogul contributed a whispered “King Kylie” near the end of the song and delivered spoken vocals during the third verse. The mid-tempo R&B; track features lyrics like, “One strike, two strike, let me get the mood right,” and “Touch me, baby, tell me I’m your baby / Write your name all over my body / Cross the line, I might do it again / Do it on purpose just to see how it ends.”
The release of “Fourth Strike” triggered a wave of commentary across social media. While some praised Jenner’s surprise drop, others criticized the production and vocals. One user on X, @stargirlhoursx2 , wrote, “How embarrassing King AutoTune.” Another commented, “I think you’re out after 3,” referencing the song’s title.
Jenner teased the track earlier that day on Instagram, posting the cover art and prompting speculation among her followers. The move came as part of a broader return to her 2014-era aesthetic, which included the re-release of several Kylie Cosmetics products from that time.
Jenner’s History With Terror Jr Resurfaces
Jenner’s connection to Terror Jr — the duo of Lisa Vitale and David “Campa” Benjamin Singer-Vine — dates back to 2016. At the time, rumors swirled that she was the mystery vocalist behind their debut single “Three Strikes.” Jenner denied the claims, but the theory never completely faded from public conversation.
With “Fourth Strike,” Jenner appears to lean into the speculation rather than avoid it. The song’s title and her vocal contribution seem to nod at the past without offering a direct confirmation.
The revival of Jenner’s “King Kylie” identity has been building in recent weeks. The term, which references her more experimental and edgy style from nearly a decade ago, has reappeared across her social platforms. Her new music and cosmetics reissues both reflect that nostalgic branding.
Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B is speaking out about her fierce protective instincts as a mother, describing herself as a “lioness” when it comes to defending her children in a new interview with Paper Magazine.
“This week I showed the world that I will get the most nasty about mine…I never had to get that nasty for my kids. But I did, and I really feel like a lioness,” Cardi B told Paper Magazine in a recent cover story.
“I will really take it to hell for mines: mentally, physically, anything. And I wouldn’t care,” Cardi B stated, referring to her children Kulture, 6, Wave, 3 and Blossom, whom she shares with estranged husband Offset.
The Bronx-born artist’s comments come amid a renewed public feud with fellow rapper Nicki Minaj that escalated in recent weeks when both artists made personal attacks involving each other’s children.
Nicki Minaj made derogatory comments about Cardi’s daughter, Kulture, calling her “ugly” and a “vulture.”
In response, Cardi B fired back with equally harsh words, calling Nicki Minaj a “sick pathetic loser” and making claims about Minaj’s son’s intellect.
The feud between Cardi B and Nicki Minaj dates back several years, with tensions first becoming public around 2017.
The rivalry reached a physical confrontation at a New York Fashion Week party in 2018, where Cardi B threw a shoe at Minaj. Since then, the two have engaged in periodic social media battles and subtle diss tracks.
The current dispute represents one of the most personal exchanges between the artists, with both crossing traditional boundaries by involving their children in the conflict.
“B####, you don’t move me. You don’t move my thoughts, and you don’t move my f###### day,” Cardi B declared in the Paper Magazine interview, demonstrating the defiant attitude that has defined her public persona.
Beyoncé honored the legacy of late R&B luminary D’Angelo with a heartfelt tribute on Tuesday following news of his death, calling him a trailblazer whose artistry reshaped modern soul music.
The Houston-born superstar shared a message on her website praising the four-time Grammy winner’s influence on rhythm and blues. “We thank you for your beautiful music, your voice, your proficiency on the piano, your artistry,” she wrote. “You were the pioneer of neo-soul and that changed and transformed rhythm & blues forever. We will never forget you.”
D’Angelo, born Michael Eugene Archer, died Tuesday, though no cause of death has been publicly confirmed. He was 50.
Tributes flooded social media as artists and entertainers paid their respects to the “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” singer, whose impact on the neo-soul movement of the late ’90s and early 2000s remains undeniable.
Missy Elliott urged followers to keep D’Angelo’s son, Michael Archer Jr., in their thoughts.
Rest Peacefully D’Angelo🙏🏾🕊️ No parent want to see their children go but it’s painful for children to see their parents go to so send prayers up for his son who also lost his mom this year for strength 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/XDIRSskF08
The child also lost his mother, singer Angie Stone, earlier this year. “No parent want to see their children go but it’s painful for children to see their parents go,” Elliott wrote. “So send prayers up for his son who also lost his mom this year for strength. Rest Peacefully D’Angelo.”
Jamie Foxx shared his grief on Instagram, reflecting on D’Angelo’s musical genius and his signature presence. “God doesn’t make mistakes, but this hurts like hell. Rest up my friend,” Foxx wrote. “I was graciously envious of your style and your swag… I was also in pure awe of your talents… roaming around on each instrument, displaying your expertise in every note and every song… That’s why today real tears run down my face.”
D’Angelo’s 1995 debut album Brown Sugar helped define the neo-soul genre, blending classic soul with modern Hip-Hop production. His follow-up, Voodoo, earned him critical acclaim and a Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance in 2001.
He had largely stayed out of the public eye in recent years, but his influence remained embedded in the DNA of contemporary R&B.
Busta Rhymes has filed a defamation countersuit against his former assistant in Brooklyn federal court, denying claims of assault, harassment and wage theft. The Hip-Hop veteran, born Trevor Smith Jr., called the allegations “false” and retaliatory in a response submitted October 13.
The legal dispute stems from a lawsuit filed by Dashiel Gables, who worked for Smith between July 2024 and January 2025. Gables alleged that Smith physically attacked him, underpaid him and damaged his career in the Hip-Hop industry after he spoke out.
Assault Claim Called Fabricated
Smith’s legal team admitted Gables was employed by Starbus LLC and earned $1,500 per week, but denied all accusations of violence or abuse. The most serious charge—that Smith punched Gables in a Brooklyn lobby in January—was flatly rejected.
According to the filing, “The two were present, but the alleged assault never occurred.”
Defamation Countersuit Targets Public Statements
Smith’s attorneys, led by J. Patrick Butler, filed a countersuit accusing Gables of spreading falsehoods to the press and at a public press conference. The countersuit highlights several claims made by Gables, including that Smith spat on employees, made threats and once forced an assistant to unclog a toilet with his bare hands.
“The foregoing statements are statements of purported fact, not opinion or protected rhetorical hyperbole, and they are false,” Butler wrote. “Smith did not assault or batter Gables, did not ‘routinely assault’ or spit on employees, did not make the alleged threats, and did not commit the other wrongful acts asserted as facts by Gables.”
Smith is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, attorney’s fees and a full retraction of the statements.
Gables’ original complaint, filed August 4 in the Eastern District of New York, paints a grim picture of his time working for the rapper. He described long hours, verbal abuse and humiliating tasks, including the now-infamous toilet incident.
He also claimed he worked 15 to 18 hours a day, seven days a week, for a flat $200 daily rate—without overtime or proper wage documentation.
The complaint alleges that tensions escalated in January 2025, when Smith allegedly punched Gables multiple times for texting his daughter and failing to retrieve food quickly. Gables said he sought medical treatment for facial injuries and filed a police report.
Criminal Charge Followed Police Report
According to NBC News, Smith later surrendered to authorities and was charged with third-degree assault. Gables claims he was blacklisted from the Hip-Hop industry after reporting the incident and is seeking between $6 million and $7 million in damages.
Smith’s countersuit argues that Gables acted with “actual malice” and either knew his statements were false or ignored evidence to the contrary.
“At a minimum, Gables acted negligently in ascertaining the truth,” Butler wrote.
The case is currently assigned to Judge Margo M. Horan in the Eastern District of New York. Both parties are preparing for the discovery phase, which is expected to unfold in the coming months.
The Gathering for Justice, the social justice organization founded by the late Harry Belafonte, celebrated its 20th Anniversary Gala, 20 Years of Impact, last night (Oct. 13) in New York City, honoring some of the most influential voices in activism, art and community building.
Hosted by an uncharacteristically hilarious, rhyme reciting Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, the sold-out evening paid tribute to Belafonte’s enduring legacy and also celebrated two decades of movement-building under the leadership of President and CEO Carmen Perez-Jordan. Jordan is stepping away from her role at the organization. So it was fitting that he event also mobilized support for the organization’s next phase of advocacy centered on racial equality, youth empowerment and systemic reform.
Among the honorees were Desiree Perez, CEO of Roc Nation, who received the Harry Belafonte Social Justice Award; legendary actor and activist Danny Glover, recipient of the Legacy of Justice Award; and Zakiyah Shaakir-Ansari, Co-Executive Director of the Alliance for Quality Education, who accepted the Gathering in Community Award. The latter was a distinction first bestowed upon The Exonerated Five.
This year’s gala coincided with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, symbolizing the organization’s commitment to truth, accountability and inclusion across all communities.
Desiree Perez received a standing ovation after she delivered a stirring acceptance speech that reflected on purpose, perseverance and the legacy of Harry Belafonte.
“When I received this humbling request to accept this award, I was in a moment of questioning my purpose in social justice work,” Perez said. “I was asking myself: Am I truly making a difference? Does my work have any impact? Do people understand my intent — or is it simply not enough? Do I even have the time? Talk about divinity — you saved my spirit.”
She continued, “This isn’t just about a 9-to-5 or raising funds. It’s about everything we do daily… how I run my company, how I conduct business, and the essence and principles behind my choices and words. Everything counts, regardless of its size.”
Perez reflected on her organization’s collaboration with the NFL, the creation of the United Justice Coalition, and her pride in winning an Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special (Live) alongside the first Black rapper (Kendrick Lamar) to ever headline a Super Bowl halftime show produced by a Black- and Brown-led team.
“Then I learned that Harry Belafonte was the first Black performer to win an Emmy and it was for his variety special, bringing everything full circle for me,” she said. “This work isn’t about being invited to the table or how you get there. It’s much bigger than any one of us. However you show up, as long as you do, we will weaken the walls of injustice.”
Perez closed with a quote from Belafonte that encapsulated the evening’s spirit:
“I’m not quite sure precisely when social and political activism became a visible brand of my DNA, but it seems to me that I was born into it. It is hard to be born into the experience in the world of poverty and not develop some instinct for survival and resistance to those things that oppress you.”
20 Years of Impact
Founded in 2005 after Belafonte witnessed the handcuffing of a five-year-old Black girl in a Florida classroom, The Gathering for Justice continues to unite communities, influence policy, and hold law enforcement accountable. Through mentorship and strategic advocacy, the organization empowers youth to become agents of change in their own communities.
“Our work is rooted in the belief that we must act collectively to influence change and hold institutions accountable,” Perez-Jordan said. “From mobilizing young people to challenging inequities in the justice system, our movement continues to honor Mr. Belafonte’s vision of justice grounded in love, courage, and unity.”
Despite ongoing challenges, from funding cuts to political intimidation, The Gathering for Justice remains steadfast. As Perez-Jordan emphasized, “In these moments of uncertainty, we do what we know best: we fight back.”
Rod Wave Responds to Lawsuit With Bribery Allegations
Rod Wave is pushing back against a $27 million lawsuit by accusing concert promoter Grizzly Touring of bribery, breach of contract and mismanagement tied to his 2024 “Last Lap” tour. The Florida-based rapper, whose legal name is Rodarius Green, filed a formal response in court denying all claims and alleging the promoter tried to manipulate him into what he described as “indentured servitude.”
At the core of the dispute is a failed arena tour deal that collapsed after Wave canceled 9 of the 35 scheduled shows. Grizzly claims it advanced more than $57 million to cover the tour’s costs, including a $40.25 million guarantee to the rapper. The company says it’s now owed over $27 million in damages.
“Rod Wave refuses to pay Grizzly a single penny of the more than $27 million he owes,” Grizzly’s attorney Pravin Patel said in court documents, as reported by AllHipHop.
Promoter Claims Tour Losses and Contract Violations
Grizzly Touring alleges that Rod Wave used a portion of the advance to fund luxury purchases, including real estate and private flights, while failing to fulfill his full tour obligations. The company also accuses Wave of violating an exclusivity clause by announcing new solo performances through his own company, Hit House Entertainment, which they say directly breached their agreement.
In addition to seeking financial damages, Grizzly wants a court order to prevent Wave from launching future tours without their involvement.
Rod Wave Says Promoter Sabotaged Tour
Rod Wave’s legal team paints a different picture. In his filing, the rapper says Grizzly and its production partner, 360 Production, rescheduled shows without his input, leading to logistical issues and harming his reputation. He argues that those decisions—not his cancellations—caused the tour to unravel.
He also disputes the $27 million figure, stating it’s inflated and not supported by the contract. According to his side, he earned nearly $30 million from the shows he did perform and has no obligation to return unused funds.
Wave further argues that the exclusivity and “right of first refusal” clauses in the agreement are legally unenforceable under Florida law, especially since Grizzly allegedly failed to meet its responsibilities.
Bribery Claim at Center of Legal Counterattack
The most serious charge in Rod Wave’s response involves an alleged bribery attempt. He claims Grizzly tried to sneak unauthorized terms into the contract by offering secret payments to his agent. According to the filing, that effort failed, and the current lawsuit is retaliation for his refusal to accept the altered terms.
Wave and Hit House Entertainment are now asking the court to void the contract entirely and eliminate any remaining obligations tied to the failed tour.
Kylie Jenner stepped into the music spotlight Monday night with the release of her first official track, “Fourth Strike,” alongside Los Angeles-based duo Terror Jr, marking a return to her King Kylie persona and reviving long-standing rumors about her secret musical ambitions.
The 28-year-old entrepreneur dropped the mid-tempo R&B collaboration on her YouTube channel, offering breathy vocals on the song’s third verse and whispering “King Kylie” near the end. Earlier in the day, she teased the release with cover art on Instagram, fueling speculation among her massive following.
“Fourth Strike” features Jenner speaking-singing lines like, “One strike, two strike, let me get the mood right,” and “I just wanna tell you I’m sorry.” She continues, “Touch me, baby, tell me I’m your baby / Write your name all over my body / Cross the line, I might do it again / Do it on purpose just to see how it ends.”
The track quickly drew mixed reactions online. Some praised the surprise drop, while others were less impressed. One X user, @stargirlhoursx2 , posted, “How embarrassing King AutoTune.” Another chimed in with a jab at the title, writing, “I think you’re out after 3.”
Jenner’s connection to Terror Jr — made up of Lisa Vitale and David “Campa” Benjamin Singer-Vine — dates back to 2016, when conspiracy theories swirled that she was the anonymous lead vocalist behind their debut single “Three Strikes.” Though she denied involvement at the time, the speculation never fully faded.
The “King Kylie” alter ego, a reference to Jenner’s edgier 2014 aesthetic, has been making a comeback in recent weeks. That resurgence includes the re-release of several signature Kylie Cosmetics products from that era, aligning with the nostalgic vibe of her musical debut.
“Fourth Strike” was released on October 14, 2025, through Jenner’s official YouTube channel.
Alaina Scott announced Sunday that she is expecting her first child with husband Matt Moeller, marking a new chapter for the couple and making Eminem a grandfather for the second time.
Scott, 32, shared the news on Instagram with a carousel of photos from a surprise reveal staged at the couple’s under-construction home. The images showed Moeller blindfolded and led into a room decorated with gold “Baby M” balloons. Inside, Scott handed him a pair of baby shoes and a positive pregnancy test.
“For months, I’ve carried a tiny heartbeat inside me, one that has already changed mine in every possible way,” Scott wrote in the caption. “There’s something indescribable about knowing there’s a little life growing, dreaming, and becoming, all while you go about your day, whispering prayers and hopes only they can hear. I’ve never felt more grateful for this gift and to grow our family, something we’ve wanted for so long. Thank you God for this blessing. Baby M, we can’t wait to meet you, little one.”
Hailie Jade Reacts to the News
Scott’s sister Hailie Jade Scott responded quickly in the comments, writing, “Sooo happy for you guys. Can’t wait to be this little one’s auntie & elliot is so excited to meet his cousin.”
The announcement comes just months after Hailie Jade and her husband Evan McClintock welcomed their first child, Elliot Marshall McClintock, on March 14, 2025. The baby’s middle name honors his grandfather, whose full name is Marshall Mathers.
Alaina, born in 1993, is the biological daughter of Dawn Scott, the twin sister of Eminem’s ex-wife Kim Scott. Eminem adopted Alaina in the early 2000s after Dawn struggled with substance abuse. Dawn died in 2016 from a suspected overdose.
Eminem has long referred to Alaina as “Lainey” in his lyrics and has spoken openly about raising her alongside Hailie and his adopted child Stevie Laine. “I have full custody of my niece,” he said in a past interview, reflecting on his role as a father figure.
Despite his aggressive musical persona, Eminem has repeatedly emphasized the importance of his children in his life. He has credited them with helping him stay sober and focused on his career.
A Private Life Beyond the Spotlight
Alaina and Moeller tied the knot in June 2023 in a flapper-themed wedding ceremony that featured an 80-foot aisle lined with white roses. Eminem walked her down the aisle, a moment that drew attention for its emotional weight and vintage flair.
Both Alaina and Hailie have largely avoided the public eye, choosing to share personal moments occasionally through social media rather than through the press.
The couple has not yet disclosed the baby’s gender or expected due date.
Nicki Minaj is about to lose more than the $30,000 she claimed thieves stole from her AMEX account – the rap superstar now faces losing her entire $20 million Los Angeles mansion.
The “Anaconda” rapper and her husband, Kenneth Petty, could lose their 11-bedroom Hidden Hills home after refusing to pay more than $500,000 they owe to a German security guard, according to court documents obtained by US Weekly.
Thomas Weidenmüller has asked a court to force the sale of Minaj’s mansion to collect the debt. The security guard claims Petty punched him during a 2019 concert in Germany, breaking his jaw.
“The dwelling is subject to a $13,258,000 mortgage lien and a $722,151 homestead exemption—together just under $14 million,” the court documents read. “The property’s current fair market value is appraised at $20 million, yielding approximately $6 million in equity beyond the lien and exemption.”
The legal team argues the home sale “would satisfy the entire judgment, with millions to spare.”
Background on Legal Troubles
Nicki Minaj’s latest drama originates from a 2019 incident in Germany. Weidenmüller worked as head of security for Minaj’s concert when trouble began. The rapper allegedly berated a female security guard for allowing a male fan onstage.
Minaj reportedly called the guard a “f–king b####” while recording the exchange. When Weidenmüller tried to console the crying guard and approach Nicki Minaj, she allegedly threw her shoe at him.
“Who do you think you are?” Nicki Minaj allegedly yelled before Petty punched Weidenmüller, breaking his jaw.
Petty, 47, is a registered sex offender with a troubled legal history. He was sentenced to three years of probation in 2022 for failing to register as a sex offender in California. He was convicted of attempted rape in 1995.
The couple also faces a harassment lawsuit from Jennifer Hough, Petty’s alleged 1994 rape victim. She claims they tried to pressure her to recant her story.
Nicki Minaj, Kenneth Petty and son, Papa Bear watch the New York Knicks take on the visiting Oklahoma City Thunder at Madison Square Garden Credit: Michael Simon/startraksphoto.com
Recent Credit Card Theft Allegations
The mansion crisis comes as Minaj deals with another financial blow. On Tuesday morning (October 14), the 42-year-old rapper revealed that people close to her made nearly $30,000 in unauthorized charges on her American Express card.
“3 different people in a span of 2 months charging my Amex w/o permission,” Minaj wrote on social media. “Some couldn’t even explain how they had the brand new card number. Hmmmm.”
She added, “A couple of them have been doing it for years. Filed the first report a couple of weeks ago. They’re all going to jail.”
Nicki Minaj claims one thief had been tracking her movements using a device connected to his phone number. She confronted all alleged perpetrators, saying they were “caught red-handed.
Financial Pressure Mounts
Court documents describe Minaj as “a global music superstar, estimated to have a net worth of anywhere between $150-190 million and is reportedly the highest paid female rap star in the world.”
Despite her wealth, Weidenmüller’s legal team says: “There is little doubt that she is highly capable of paying the judgment in full and, yet, she has refused to do so despite multiple written requests for payment.”
Nicki Minaj and Petty married in October 2019 and have one son, known only as “Papa Bear,” born in September 2020.
Rapper Nicki Minaj revealed Tuesday (October 14) that several people close to her allegedly used her American Express credit card without permission, racking up nearly $30,000 in unauthorized charges over two months.
The “Super Bass” artist shared screenshots of five separate charges on her Instagram account in the early morning hours of October 14, claiming that at least four different people had accessed her brand-new credit card number.
“3 different people in a span of 2 months charging my Amex w/o permission,” Minaj wrote on social media. “Some couldn’t even explain how they had the brand new card number. Hmmmm.”
The charges, which Minaj posted as evidence, totaled approximately $30,000. She indicated that some of the alleged perpetrators had been stealing from her for years.
“A couple of them have been doing it for years,” she continued. “Filed the first report a couple of weeks ago. They’re all going to jail.”
According to Minaj’s posts, the alleged theft extends beyond credit card fraud.
@clocktheteas Chile… #NickiMinaj is on another crazy ass rant 😭 She says somebody STOLE from her and used her American Express card, claiming the thieves were tracking her every move with a device connected straight to their phone 👀 She even filed a police report about it — this one got the Barbz and the internet in a chokehold 💅 credit: @livebitez #NickiMinaj#ClockTheTea#HipHopNews#CelebrityDrama#ViralMoments♬ original sound – Clock The Tea ☕️
She claimed a fourth person was also involved in stealing from both her and her fanbase, known as the Barbz. The rapper also alleged that one of the thieves had been tracking her movements using a device connected to his phone number.
Minaj said she confronted all the alleged perpetrators and they were “caught red handed.” She suggested the scheme involved more people than initially revealed and hinted at potential RICO charges.
“Let’s see if they’ll go to jail for their ring leaders,” she wrote. “Let’s see if they’ll save themselves or be apart of the RICO. Hope the group chats were worth it.”
The rapper has not disclosed the identities of the alleged thieves but indicated they may be people within her professional circle, writing, “I wonder if their other clients know that they’re thieves.”
This is not the first time Minaj has dealt with credit card theft allegations.
In August 2018, she publicly accused her ex-boyfriend, Safaree Samuels, of stealing her credit card during their relationship, which ended in 2014. The accusation came during a heated Twitter exchange between the former couple, according to multiple media reports.
The timing of Nicki Minaj’s revelation comes amid ongoing tensions with fellow rapper Cardi B, who recently made her own allegations about Minaj’s husband, Kenneth Petty, allegedly using credit cards inappropriately.
However, it remains unclear whether these separate incidents are connected.
Credit card fraud affects millions of Americans annually, with the Federal Trade Commission reporting over 390,000 cases annually. Celebrities often face heightened risks due to their public profiles and the number of people who may have access to their personal information.
Nicki Minaj has indicated she is working with authorities on the matter and has already filed at least one police report. The investigation appears to be ongoing.
Arrest Made After Desecration At Historic King Center
Brent Jones was arrested in Atlanta early Saturday morning after police say he urinated on the Eternal Flame at the King Center, a national memorial honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. Officers responded to a trespassing call around 4:30 a.m. and found the 26-year-old damaging the site’s reflecting pool and attempting to extinguish the symbolic flame.
Police Say Jones Caused Thousands In Damage
According to arrest records, Jones ignored commands to leave the premises and instead “began damaging the property further by urinating into the reflection pool at The King Center where Dr. Martin Luther King and Ms. Coretta Scott King were laid to rest.” Authorities estimate the damage at nearly $3,000.
The report also says Jones “damaged the eternal flame at the location that is a memorial site for Dr. King Jr.” by urinating on it “to put it out.” Officers added he was “stomping on the Eternal Flame, causing significant damage.”
The Eternal Flame, as described on the King Center’s website, “symbolizes the continuing effort to realize Dr. King’s dream of the ‘Beloved Community.’” It is a centerpiece of the memorial site, which draws thousands of visitors each year.
Police say Jones climbed into the flame’s metal basin and “stood in the pot damaging it.” He also “proceeded to scatter the documents that were on the memorial podium for Dr. King Jr.”
Suspect Resisted Arrest And Fought Security
Security staff attempted to remove Jones from the area, but the report says he “began attempting to fight” the guard. After being handcuffed, Jones reportedly slipped out of the restraints and continued resisting arrest.
While in custody at the precinct, he allegedly “attempted to expose himself and urinate” again, prompting an additional public indecency charge.
Multiple Charges Filed
Jones now faces several charges including second-degree criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, obstruction of law enforcement and public indecency. He was booked into Fulton County Jail.
King Center Calls Incident “Minor”
The King Center issued a brief statement referring to the incident as “minor” and did not provide further details about repairs or potential changes to security.
This incident follows a separate case in 2023, when a woman was arrested for allegedly attempting to set fire to Dr. King’s birth home, according to NBC News.
D’Angelo was special and people are in pain at the loss of such unique, sonically masterful spirit. People are devastated—even those that didn’t meet him.
After his death was made public, singer Jill Scott immediately posted, “I told you a long time ago-You ain’t gon understand everything & everything ain’t meant 4 U ,nor I, to understand. I never met D’Angelo but I love him, respect him, admire his gift. This loss HURTS!! Love to my family that are family to him. I’m so sorry. R.I.P. GENIUS.”
I told you a long time ago-You ain’t gon understand everything & everything ain’t meant 4 U ,nor I, to understand. I never met D’Angelo but I love him, respect him, admire his gift. This loss HURTS!! Love to my family that are family to him. I’m so sorry. R.I.P. GENIUS. 💔 💔
When D’Angelo missed The Roots picnic in May due to an “unforeseen illness,” it felt like a bad omen.
“I went to The Roots picnic to see him and it sucked when he did not make it,” a close friend said under anonymity. “I didn’t even want to go after that, but finding out he was close to death makes me feel terrible in retrospect.”
Michael Eugene Archer, known to the world as D’Angelo, the elusive and transformative figure who redefined R&B, Hip-Hop and soul music for the rapidly burgeoning Hip-Hop generation, left this plane Tuesday (October 14) following a private battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 51.
Born in Richmond, Virginia, D’Angelo rose from the church pews to global stages, reshaping the contours of modern Black music with his blend of gospel spirit, funk groove and even Hip-Hop edge. His arrival in the mid-1990s signaled a movement, a return to depth, authenticity and musicianship in an era dominated by glossy pop, gritty rap and commercial R&B.
Producer and industry vet Datwon Thomas said, “Some just transcend the frequency that we are all on and fly higher than us while in their earthly vessels. This man did that…he also did it his way and on his timing.”
Early Brilliance and the Birth of Neo-Soul
Veteran writer, radio host and producer Tonya Pendleton has interviewed D’Angelo and said he was a conduit that bridged the gaps between old school, new school and future schools.
“When the Neo-Soul movement came about, which was really just contemporary R&B, D’Angelo set the tone for the onslaught of artists to come,” Pendleton said. “He married R&B to hip hop with his braid and his sagging jeans and a love song about weed (“Brown Sugar”). What made him special though is that he was coming with old-school sounds in a new school package. Sure he had the braids and the jeans, but he also had a command of the Fender Rhodes. And, of course, the kind of sultry vocals that characterized the R&B vocalists of the past.”
In 1995, D’Angelo released Brown Sugar, a debut that was as smooth as it was revolutionary. The album was anchored by the title tracks “Lady” and his tender cover of Smokey Robinson’s “Cruisin’.” Both helped define what became known as the neo-soul movement. Alongside contemporaries like Erykah Badu, Maxwell and Lauryn Hill, D’Angelo crafted a sound that was earthy, intimate and, most important, timeless. Brown Sugar went platinum, earned critical acclaim, and placed D’Angelo among the brightest young voices in music.
The Classic: Voodoo and Cultural Reverberation
In 2000, D’Angelo’s Voodoo elevated him from gifted artist to cultural phenomenon. The record, steeped in analog warmth and rhythmic complexity, was a daring evolution, melding J Dilla’s drum feel, Questlove’s syncopation and D’Angelo’s own deep musical intuition. Its standout single, “Untitled (How Does It Feel),” became one of the defining songs-and videos-of the decade, celebrated for its vulnerability and sensual power.
Here’s some humor. I’ll never forget seeing the girls swooning over him at this time, knowing I’d never unlock this level of attraction in the ladies. Shockingly, D’Angelo ultimately rejected the overly sexual overtones of “Untitled” and never returned to that iteration of his being.
Voodoo won two Grammy Awards, including Best R&B Album and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. The fame of it all that came with a heavy toll. D’Angelo retreated from the spotlight, battling personal struggles and creative exhaustion, choosing privacy over celebrity.
The Triumphant Return
After a 14-year hiatus, D’Angelo reemerged with Black Messiah in 2014, released under D’Angelo and The Vanguard. The album, arriving amid global protests for racial justice, was both a personal and political statement. With songs like “The Charade” and “Till It’s Done (Tutu),” D’Angelo reminded the world that his artistry was never just about love and groove—it was about truth and liberation. Black Messiah earned universal praise, cementing his legacy as an artist of conscience and conviction.
A Quiet Giant’s Enduring Legacy
Though D’Angelo shunned fame, his influence runs deep. His sound reshaped the DNA of artists like Anderson .Paak, H.E.R., Frank Ocean and Leon Bridges. Smoky and spiritual…his voice carried the weight of generations before him as well. Tyler, the Creator merely posted a captionless picture of D’Angelo. The Richmond, VA native managed to give us Marvin Gaye and Prince, all the while carving a path for those who would follow.
Pendleton says his body of work will stand the test of time.
“His legacy will be of someone who married craftsmanship, musicianship, passion and style into his own beautiful mix,” she said “Even though his output was less than others of his era, he will be remembered for his incredible three albums all of which will stand the test of time.”
Beyond the stage, D’Angelo was known for his humility and reverence for the music itself. He often described his craft as ministry, not industry. Those close to him say he faced his final battle with grace, surrounded by family and guided by faith.
His final message to fans and the public, after the cancelled appearance with The Roots, suggested that that he was upbeat, hopeful and had music on the way.
“I’m so thankful to my beautiful fans for continuing to rock with me and Thank u for your continued support,” he wrote on Instagram. “I’m currently in the Lab & can’t wait to serve Up what’s in the Pot! LOVE U All and will see you very soon!”
D’Angelo is survived by his children, family and an eternal body of work that continues to inspire and heal. Sadly, his eldest son, Michael Archer, Jr., a rap artist known as Swayvo Twain, also lost his mother this year, the singer Angie Stone. Stone and D’Angelo had him in 1997.
In an industry obsessed with image, D’Angelo reminded the world that the soul still matters. His wasn’t a career defined by quantity, but by quality. He truly was a rare artist who made music feel sacred and sound divine.
Recording Industry Association of America CEO Mitch Glazier spotlighted artificial intelligence and copyright law during a recent campus visit to Middle Tennessee State University, where he urged students to help shape the future of music.
The RIAA chief addressed a room full of college students in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, laying out the growing tension between rapid AI innovation and the legal protections for artists.
“You really are the future of the music industry,” Glazier told the crowd. “When new technology arrives, it’s always here to stay — but it’s up to us to decide how to shape it.”
Glazier, who has led the RIAA for nearly six years and worked there for two decades, used the event to show how AI is already capable of producing full songs, complete with lyrics and visuals, in mere seconds.
One example he played for the audience featured a Garth Brooks track reimagined with the voice of Hank Hill from “King of the Hill.” Another tool, Suno, generated an original country song from scratch — including artwork — in under two seconds.
“These examples make it clear that we’re entering a new era,” he said.
While the tech may seem impressive, Glazier emphasized the legal vacuum surrounding AI-generated content.
“There is no federal law to prohibit deepfakes,” he said. “There’s nothing out there where you can sue someone for using your image or voice.”
To address this, the RIAA is backing the No FAKES Act, a bill currently in Congress that would give artists legal protection against unauthorized AI-generated replicas of their voice or likeness. California has already passed legislation requiring AI developers to disclose the data they use to train their models, a move that could influence national policy.
Glazier compared the current AI disruption to the Napster era, when the music industry fought back against illegal file sharing.
The music executive stressed that while AI can mimic sound, it can’t replicate the emotional connection between an artist and their audience. “There has to be a connection between a human artist and a fan,” he said. “That connection is what unites an audience and an artist, and it’s something AI can never replicate.”
Glazier’s talk came as Congress continues to debate AI legislation and artists push for stronger protections in an increasingly automated industry.
The mother of late North Carolina rapper Lil Jbo, Shanna Lowery, stood outside a Robeson County courtroom questioning why the man accused of killing her son continues to be granted the chance to seek bail as her family relives the trauma over and over again.
Her 20-year-old son, born Tazarie Butler, was shot and killed on June 27, 2023, at a home on Beam Road in Robeson County.
Since then, the man charged with his murder, 27-year-old Chamberlin Oxendine, has filed four separate motions for bond hearings, according to Robeson County District Attorney Matthew Scott, as reported by WPDE.
“Why is it fair for a mother and family to have to keep coming and reliving this situation when we’re 90 days away from court?” Lowery asked during an interview with the station. “The pain and stuff are already going to come. The trauma, the memories, all of that is going to come up.”
Oxendine, who was arrested in August 2023, remains in custody on a $1 million bond.
His latest hearing, originally set for October 13, was postponed and is now expected to take place in November. His legal team is pushing for a bond reduction to $50,000, calling the current amount “grossly excessive.”
In court filings, they claim Oxendine acted in self-defense and in defense of his family members, including his wife, children and brother. The documents also note the shooting happened at his father’s home and that he “cooperated with the investigation.”
Lowery, however, remains firmly opposed to any reduction in bail. “My son’s life is worth more than $1,000,000, number one,” she said.
Legal analysts say while suspects can request bond hearings repeatedly, courts typically only entertain them when new developments arise in the case.
Butler’s death rattled his hometown of Lumberton, where he had built a name for himself in the local music scene and had started making industry connections before his life was cut short.
In his honor, the city of Lumberton designated June 27 as “Tazarie Butler Day.”
The case has seen multiple delays. Oxendine’s trial was initially scheduled for September 2025 but was pushed to March 2026 due to the late submission of crucial evidence.
Despite the repeated court dates and emotional toll, Lowery says she will continue to show up. “I’m going to do that until the jury makes their decision,” she said. “And like I said, when the jury makes their decision, whatever it may be, I will be able to live with that.”
Oxendine’s next bond hearing is set for November 2025.
Joey Bada$$ is venturing deeper into the film world with a mysterious new role, teasing his next on-screen move by comparing himself to one of Hollywood’s greats.
The Brooklyn-born rapper and actor revealed in a recent interview with XXL Magazine that he’s gearing up to portray a “legacy act” in an upcoming movie, though he kept most details under wraps.
“On the horizon though, we about to be on our Denzel s###,” he said. “I can’t tell you too much about it, but there is a new film that I’m getting ready to shoot. All I could say is that I’ll be playing a legacy act.”
The 30-year-old artist gave the teaser while promoting his latest album, Lonely at the Top, and hinted that his next chapter might lean more into acting than music.
Joey’s acting résumé has grown steadily since his first major role in 2016 as Leon in USA Network’s Mr. Robot. His performance in the tech-thriller series marked his official crossover from Hip-Hop to Hollywood.
In 2019, he took on the role of Inspectah Deck in Hulu’s Wu-Tang: An American Saga, further establishing his presence in television. But it was his lead performance in the 2020 short film Two Distant Strangers that became a defining moment in his acting career.
The film, which tackled police violence against Black men, won the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film in 2021, earning Joey an Oscar at just 26.
More recently, Joey played the role of Unique in the Starz crime drama Power Book III: Raising Kanan, appearing in four seasons beginning in 2021. His portrayal of the street-savvy character added another layer to his acting range and drew praise for its emotional depth.
Joey’s mention of “Denzel” is more than name-dropping—it signals his ambition to be taken seriously as a dramatic actor. The reference to Denzel Washington suggests he’s aiming for roles with weight and substance, not just cameos or typecast parts.
The new project is expected to begin production soon, though no release date has been confirmed.
Four people have been taken into custody after a deadly mass shooting shattered a Mississippi town’s homecoming weekend, leaving six dead and more than a dozen others wounded, according to the FBI’s Jackson Field Office.
The arrests—announced Monday (October 13)—followed a chaotic scene Friday night in Leland, where gunfire erupted just after a high school football game ended.
Authorities charged Teviyon L. Powell, 29, William Bryant, 29, and Morgan Lattimore, 25, with capital murder. Latoya A. Powell, 44, faces an attempted murder charge.
The FBI said the mass shooting “appears to have been sparked by a disagreement among several individuals,” though the exact motive remains unclear. The agency also confirmed that “other arrests are pending.”
The violence unfolded on a downtown street packed with people celebrating homecoming. Witnesses described a chaotic and gruesome scene.
“It was the most horrific scene I’d ever seen,” Camish Hopkins told The Associated Press. She recalled seeing multiple victims bleeding and four lifeless bodies on the ground.
The aftermath was grim. Blood stained the pavement. Shoes and personal belongings were scattered across the area, remnants of a celebration turned deadly.
According to NBC News, the FBI had previously released surveillance footage and requested public help in identifying four suspects. It is not yet known if the individuals arrested were among those shown in the video.
This incident marks the 14th mass killing in the United States this year, as tracked by the Associated Press/USA TODAY/Northeastern University Mass Killing Database, which defines such events as homicides where four or more people are killed within a 24-hour period.
R&B and soul legend D’Angelo has reportedly died following a private battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 51. Sources tell AllHipHop he died in New York. The chatter surrounding his death started online Tuesday morning (October 14).
As DJ Premier posted via Twitter, “Such a sad loss to the passing of D’angelo. We have so many great times. Gonna miss you so much. Sleep Peacefully D’ Love You KING.”
Rolling Stone soon confirmed the news with a statement from the family that read: “The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life … After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home, departing this life today, October 14, 2025.
:We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind. We ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time but invite you all join us in mourning his passing while also celebrating the gift of song that he has left for the world.”
D’Angelo, born Michael Eugene Archer, was widely recognized for pioneering the neo soul movement with his distinct blend of classic R&B and hip-hop influences. His debut album, Brown Sugar (1995), was critically acclaimed and helped push neo soul into the mainstream, featuring chart-topping singles such as “Lady” and “Brown Sugar.”
D’Angelo’s early career was marked by collaborations with prominent artists like Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill and Angie Stone, and he was further noticed for his work co-producing the hit “U Will Know” for Black Men United.
With the release of his second album, Voodoo (2000), D’Angelo reached new heights, debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200 and earning a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album. The project included the soulful single “Untitled (How Does It Feel),” which earned him the Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.
His deeply expressive performances and artistry drew comparisons to legends like Marvin Gaye and Prince, cementing his reputation as one of R&B’s most profound creators. However, the pressures of fame and his status as a sex symbol led to personal struggles, including a battle with alcoholism, resulting in a lengthy hiatus from music.
After more than a decade away from releasing new material, D’Angelo returned with Black Messiah in 2014, a project praised for its musical complexity and socially conscious themes. The album resonated with critics and fans alike, featuring powerful performances on major platforms like Saturday Night Live and leading to sold-out tours worldwide
Wale is stepping into a new chapter with Def Jam and unpacking four years of emotional weight on his upcoming album Everything Is A Lot, due out November 14.
The 16-track project marks his first full-length release since parting ways with Rick Ross’s Maybach Music Group in 2023.
Wale shared an emotionall video trailer for the album Monday (October 13)
“Ask me what I’ve been feeling lately,” Wale says in the teaser. “Everything.”
“4 years of self reflecting,” he wrote in the caption. “Letting go of what I can’t change. Watching the industry become unrecognizable in real time…. people forgetting about me . Trying to find purpose in a thankless industry . New n##### actin like I’m a new n####. (U lot are crazy for that s### ngl) Changing labels . Changing management . Finding love but scared to scar from it. When panic meets uncertainty under a sensitive microscope….The highs the lows . . The most uncertain moments of my career are ahead of me. Im ready for what ever tho.”
Wale Reflects On Changing Music Industry Landscape
The Grammy-nominated rapper debuted the album’s lead single, “Blanco,” at Dreamville Festival earlier this year.
Other tracks include “Where to Start,” which flips SWV’s 1992 R&B classic “I’m So Into You,” and “Fly Away,” which samples Maxwell’s “Pretty Wings” and dives into themes of loss and emotional detachment.
The album’s title reflects the emotional and mental toll of navigating fame, expectations, and a rapidly shifting music landscape.
“One of the underlying things is how heavy everything is in the world around me, my personal life, and the industry,” Wale told Billboard. “I carried all of that with me and got it out of my system through this project.”
Wale said his main goal was “to express a certain level of vulnerability,” something he’s leaned into more deeply this time around.
The record represents a fresh start for the Washington D.C. native, who has spent over a decade in the spotlight, often balancing commercial success with creative frustration.
“The industry is a completely different place than it was four years ago,” he said. “They had a purge, and a lot of people lost their jobs.”
Wale left Maybach Music Group after a long run that included two No. 1 albums—2013’s “The Gifted” and 2015’s “The Album About Nothing”—and four top 10 projects on the Billboard 200. His departure followed reported friction with Rick Ross and Meek Mill, though Wale hasn’t publicly detailed the split.
“Everything Is A Lot” arrives November 14 via Def Jam.
Killer Mike, J.I.D and Sleepy Brown will celebrate Outkast’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction on November 8 in Los Angeles by honoring the duo that helped shape Atlanta’s Hip-Hop identity and global sound.
The three artists—each connected to Outkast’s legacy (some more than others)—will take the stage at the Peacock Theater to induct André 3000 and Big Boi into the Hall’s Class of 2025.
The ceremony will stream live on Disney+ and marks another major recognition for Southern Hip-Hop’s influence on music and culture.
Outkast will become only the 13th Hip-Hop act to enter the Hall of Fame, joining previous inductees like Eminem, JAY-Z, 2Pac, The Notorious B.I.G., Missy Elliott and A Tribe Called Quest.
Sleepy Brown, a longtime collaborator and part of the Organized Noize production team, helped craft the signature sound that launched Outkast into stardom.
He appeared on several of their tracks and was instrumental in shaping the sonic direction of albums like ATLiens and Aquemini.
Killer Mike, who emerged from the Dungeon Family collective, made his mark with standout verses on Stankonia and Speakerboxxx/The Love Below before forming Run The Jewels. His connection to the duo runs deep, both musically and culturally.
J.I.D, one of Atlanta’s newer voices, has consistently credited Outkast as a significant influence. He teamed up with Big Boi on Masego’s “Garden Party” in 2021 and has hinted at a possible André 3000 flute feature on his upcoming deluxe project God Does Like Ugly.
Outkast’s journey began in 1992, when André and Big Boi met as teenagers at Lenox Square shopping mall in Atlanta.
Over the next two decades, they sold more than 25 million records worldwide and helped push Southern rap into the mainstream. Their genre-bending approach and bold visuals challenged the norms of Hip-Hop at a time when the East and West Coasts dominated the charts.
Their influence extended beyond music. From fashion to film and cultural commentary, Outkast helped redefine what Southern creativity could look like on a national stage.
