Freddie Gibbs & Alchemist Confirm “Alfredo 2” Album With Lead Single “1995” & Short Film

Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist have officially released Alfredo: The Movie, now streaming on YouTube. Alongside the cinematic release, the duo also dropped the lead single “1995,” giving fans a first taste of their highly anticipated Alfredo 2 project, which they confirmed Thursday (July 17).

Described as “a Tokyo crime saga,” the film stars both Gibbs and The Alchemist and is directed by Nicholas Walker. The stylish, noir-inspired short film follows a cryptic storyline told partly in Japanese with English subtitles, offering an atmospheric journey steeped in crime, tension and introspection.

The narrator opens with, “Life is like pouring sake. Pour it faithfully. Nothing will spill,” setting the tone with philosophical reflections matched by gritty visuals, including a scene of Gibbs doing pull-ups beneath the title card Alfredo.

The movie’s closing credits confirm the project is presented by Softspot and labeled as Alfredo II, suggesting that the film and single are just the beginning of the album rollout.

The original Alfredo album dropped in 2020 to critical acclaim. With “1995” now available on all streaming platforms and the film online, fans can dive headfirst into the next chapter of this celebrated collaboration.

Megan Thee Stallion Says Klay Thompson Is “A Nice Guy”

Megan Thee Stallion paired elegance with romance on Wednesday night, stepping out hand-in-hand with Klay Thompson for their first red carpet appearance together at the Inaugural Pete & Thomas Foundation Gala in New York.

Hosted by the Megan Thee Stallion-led nonprofit, the gala highlighted efforts to support women, children, seniors, and low-income communities—causes close to her heart and rooted in her legacy.

The foundation is named in honor of her parents, Joseph Pete III and Holly Thomas, both of whom are deceased.

“I feel like they can see what I’m doing right now,” Megan told People. “I feel like they’re looking down on me from heaven, and I feel like they’re like, ‘Yes, daughter!’ I feel like my momma’s so happy.” She continued, “I feel like she is clapping. I feel like they’re super proud.”

Wearing coordinating black attire, the couple made their relationship officially public with a confident stroll down the carpet.

Their arrival followed growing speculation after Megan posted a video on July 9 that appeared to feature the Dallas Mavericks guard in the background—a moment eagle-eyed Instagram users quickly spotted.

Megan spoke briefly about how she and the four-time NBA champion connected.

“Oh, we met and it was such a meet cute it was like a f**king movie,” she said, declining to give the whole backstory. “I won’t tell you how and I won’t tell you when, but it was a movie that he’s the nicest person I’ve ever met in my life.”

The gala marked a significant milestone not only for Megan’s philanthropic ambitions but also for this high-profile pairing.

The Pete & Thomas Foundation, launched in 2022, aims to build pathways to education and wellness in underserved populations —a mission Megan previously outlined in collaborations with organizations like the Southern Black Girls & Women’s Consortium.

The high-profile couple’s red carpet introduction follows months of Megan keeping her love life strictly off the record, despite a surge in dating rumors.

Will Smith Dissed By Brooklyn Rapper In Chris Rock’s Name

Brooklyn rapper Marco Polo Vision has entered the chat and he’s not pulling punches. The battle-tested MC just dropped a scathing cartoon-themed diss track titled “The Fresh Dis Of Bel-Air,” targeting Will Smith in response to the actor’s now-infamous slap of Chris Rock. But it was the bars aimed at the Brooklyn comic that took Polo over the edge.

“If you talking crazy out your face up on the stage and disrespect me on the stage, expect me on the stage,” Big Will rhymed before dropping, “Jokers dish it out/Cry out when it’s time to take it/City full of real ones wasn’t raised to fake it.”

During the live telecast of the 94th Academy Awards on March 27, 2022, Smith walked onstage and slapped comedian Chris Rock across the face. It resulted in a 10-year ban, but Rock never pressed charges.

Not to be confused with producer Marco Polo known for work with Masta Ace, Marco Polo Vision is a rapper and creative from Brooklyn. He recently dropped a video with Bun B and DMC called “Bun DMC.”

READ ALSO: Bun B, DMC & Marco Polo Form “Bun DMC” In Super-Cypher

The track, styled as a parody of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, features animated characters like Uncle Phil and calls out Will Smith for what Polo sees as performative contrition and tone-deaf comeback bars.

“I grew up on both Chris Rock and Will Smith,” Polo said in a statement. “So when I saw Will Smith hit Chris Rock, it broke my heart. I felt like Will’s apology was a little pretentious with all the fake crying and all.”

Polo Vision says what stung more than the slap was Will’s attempts to revive his rap career using Rock’s assault as a bar double down. That’s when Polo decided to act.

“The Brooklyn in me felt like I had to speak up for my guy Chris Rock,” he explained. “He didn’t deserve that in the first place… and for Will to add insult to injury and diss him again? Nah.”

According to Polo, the song took just 20 minutes to write, but his purpose runs deeper.

“This isn’t about clout,” he insisted. “This is about protecting and preserving culture. White people love to see us going at each other like this, but even they aren’t supporting your nonsense, Will.”

Still, Polo Vision makes it clear he’s not a “hater,” recognizing he greg up on Smith’s legacy in entertainment and music.

“I grew up on “Nightmare on My Street,” “Summertime” and Fresh Prince,” he said. “But I won’t stand back while Will bullies Chris Rock just because Hollywood is crumbling and he has to deal with his own mortality.”

Polo Vision added that an apology from Will Smith to Chris Rock could resolve the issue on all fronts.

“I didn’t do this for beef. If Will apologizes to Chris, I’ll apologize to Will,” he stated. “But if he’s gonna stand on his nonsense, then I’ma stand on mine.”

Will Smith has yet to respond to the diss and may not even know it exists. Nevertheless, it seems like Polo Vision’s “The Fresh Dis of Bel-Air” is less about smoke and more about setting the cultural record straight.

“You wanna rap? Cool,” he concluded. “But don’t nobody wanna hear that bizzzaaaaaarreee ass stuff you on, Will. Respectfully.”

@donniedrko0o0

No cap that was fire 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 #willsmith #willsmithchallenge #hesback #foryoupage

♬ original sound – Donnie

50 Cent Reignites Beef With Lil Meech Over Snitch Allegations—And It’s Messy

50 Cent and petty opportunities go together like Jeezy and snow metaphors.

50 went at his fav targets since Ja Rule: Lil Meech. Damn.

One of Lil Meech’s alleged former friends (we are using alleged for everything now) hopped on Instagram and aired him out. He dropped a carousel of pictures and videos and claimed that Lil Meech told on him during a police stop.

Even worse, the man said Meech literally threw drugs on him as the police were walking up. Then, allegedly told the cops, “Those aren’t mine.” He said Lil Meech panicked and tried to sacrifice him to the feds. I thought that’s what the homies were there for when there are big stars involved. Things have changed.

These accusations are ugly, but it was lowkey. I didn’t even know about this until the internet did what the internet does: TAGGED 50 CENT.

Fif reposted the content and it goes viral from there. Here I am, all late and right.

And Lil Meech didn’t let it go. He replied with the BMF kingpin Big Meech in the pic with a caption, “Hear no evil, speak no evil. Salt only kills snails, not made men.”

In the video, the internet says Meechie asked the cops if they “found the other stuff?” to seemingly tip them off. It did not seem like they were on it like that. But they were then! Got Eem! People are wondering why Meech would volunteer information during a police stop. One commenter said, “That’s not street. That’s self-preservation.”

Is it “snitching” if you’re not a gangster but playing one on TV and social media? Meech is not a G, but he plays his own dad on TV. Can he claim civilian status? He seems to be a good kid for the most part. Why’d the drug dude think this young dude could hold him down to start?

Meech and Big Meech…seem to be on a deadline for a showdown with 50 Cent. This is heating up. Maybe it is time for Lil Meech to start rapping again.

EXCLUSIVE: Travis Scott Claims Victory Boyd Lied On Copyright Registration In Battle For “Telekinesis”

Travis Scott challenged a copyright complaint in federal court, insisting that Victory Boyd couldn’t sue over “Telekinesis” because she never held exclusive rights over the material in question.

The Hip-Hop star asked a judge to toss the case brought by singer-songwriter Victory Boyd, who accused Scott of lifting lyrics and melodies from her unreleased 2019 track “Like the Way It Sounds.”

Scott’s latest argument centers on Boyd’s own admission that Kanye West was involved in the creation of the song. In her court filing, Boyd admitted that West provided the musical framework for “LTWIS,” including chords and beats.

That fact, according to the defense, invalidates her claim that she solely authored the original work — a requirement for valid copyright registration.

Scott’s legal team stated that Boyd had two conflicting registrations: one claiming full authorship of both the lyrics and music and another only covering the lyrics. Both are now under scrutiny.

The first is allegedly void because Boyd didn’t accurately list collaborators. The second, Scott argues, wasn’t submitted until after she sued, which, under copyright law, blocks her from collecting damages from earlier uses.

The lawsuit, filed in January 2025, accuses Scott, SZA and Future of unauthorized use of Boyd’s work in the song “Telekinesis.”

Also named in the complaint: Cactus Jack Records, Epic Records, Sony Music and luxury watchmaker Audemars Piguet, which used the song in a campaign despite Boyd denying them permission.

Boyd maintains she shared the original track with West in 2019. She claims he even recorded his own version titled “Ultrasounds” and that Scott would have had access to it through those sessions.

Boyd was credited as a co-writer of “Telekinesis” online, but says she was unaware that the final version had been released and never gave her approval.

Scott’s team went one step further, arguing that even if the claims proceed, West’s creative role gave him the right to authorize the use of the demo, effectively shielding the defendants from liability.

The court is expected to rule on the dismissal motion later this year.

Colin Kaepernick’s Mate Nessa Nitty Blasts JAY-Z & Compares Alleged Tactics Against Nicki Minaj

Radio host and activist Nessa “Nitty” Diab has reignited long-standing criticism of JAY-Z.

This time, the Hot 97 personality has drawn a controversial parallel between his 2019 partnership with the National Football League (NFL) and recent allegations of industry suppression involving Nicki Minaj.

Diab, the longtime partner of former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick, posted a series of comments on Instagram Wednesday (July 16). The post was an expanded re-post of Nicki Minaj, who continues to levy claims against Roc Nation. The entertainment agency is helmed by JAY-Z and led by CEO Desiree Perez.

Diab posted a lengthy reply to Minaj.

“@NICKIMINAJ exposing the smear campaign tactics that Jay-Z, Roc Nation, Desiree Perez did to her behind the scenes, is VERY similar to what I was told they did to @Kaepernick7 when Jay purposely co-opted Colin’s protest by siding with the NFL to help ‘their image’ after they blackballed Colin for his protest.”

https://twitter.com/nessnitty/status/1945597689040965749

The claim references the 2019 deal JAY-Z brokered between Roc Nation and the NFL. The partnership was valued at $25 million over a five-year period. The agreement, according to a report by ESPN, was designed to enhance the league’s entertainment offerings and amplify its social justice initiatives. It was also reportedly meant to help it “move beyond the controversy around teams’ unwillingness to sign Kaepernick.”

In a press conference at the time, JAY-Z famously stated, “I think we’ve moved past kneeling,” referring to Kaepernick’s silent protest during the national anthem. That controversial move began in 2016 to raise awareness about police brutality and racial injustice. Kaepernick opted out of his contract with the San Francisco 49ers in 2017 and has not worked in the NFL since then.

Diab was among the earliest and most vocal critics of JAY-Z’s NFL alignment. She said the deal neutralized Kaepernick’s influence and appeased team owners. She pointed to a statement allegedly made by Patriots owner Robert Kraft:

“The NFL isn’t picking up on these social issues. We need your help,” Kraft reportedly told JAY-Z, leading to the introduction that helped facilitate the partnership.

In her comments, Diab also took aim at Perez, Roc Nation’s CEO.

Diab said:

“Desiree even said ‘We love that everybody wants to be on the stage, that we’ve completely changed the conversation to fighting for it versus boycotting. We’ve come a long way.’ She got her pardon by Trump – no coincidence the NFL owners are his buddies and also donated millions to his campaign. I still don’t watch that league or whoever is performing at whatever game they have playing.”

Diab referred to Perez’s pardon for a 1994 cocaine conspiracy conviction by then-President Donald Trump.

While Diab’s comparison between Minaj and Kaepernick drew support from some users, others questioned the validity of conflating the two situations.

“Right message, but wrong messenger when it comes to Nicki,” one commenter wrote. “Her reputation grown into the mean girl… Had she not taken that turn, it might have been impactful.”

Another stated, “Nicki ain’t it… She isn’t for the ppl and ain’t did s### to forfeit her career either!”

Diab remained resolute in her position, replying:

“It doesn’t change the message. Smear campaigns happening behind the scenes to harm people’s lives are not right. And calling out powerful people doing it takes a lot of courage.”

Actor and comedian Faizon Love also weighed in, writing, “These are two separate situations like???”

Diab responded:

“Sure, two different situations with the supposed same smear tactics done against them behind the scenes.”

JAY-Z, Roc Nation, and Desiree Perez have not publicly responded to Diab’s recent remarks.

Diab’s comments have once again placed JAY-Z at the center of a complex conversation.

Funk Flex, another Hot 97 host, weighed in, tagging Jay’s rarely used account.

Nick Cannon Blames Himself For Rapid Baby Boom

Nick Cannon chalked up the birth of five children in a single year to what he called “careless activity” during a revealing interview where he reflected on his sprawling family and the motivations behind it.

The 44-year-old entertainer, who hosts The Masked Singer, welcomed five babies in 2022 with five different women—Legendary with Bre Tiesi, Onyx with LaNisha Cole, Rise with Brittany Bell, Beautiful with Abby De La Rosa and Halo with Alyssa Scott—bringing his total number of children to 12.

Asked by Vulture about the rapid expansion of his family, Cannon admitted he wasn’t trying to emulate Elon Musk’s famously large brood.

Instead, he said his choices were often driven by a desire to please others.

“It was a by-product of my eagerness to appease the women I was dealing with, or my single friends who wanted kids,” he said.

Still, Cannon acknowledged the pace caught even him off guard.

“It was also a little bit of, like, ‘OK, God, how did I have five kids in one year?’ Probably careless activity,” he said.

Despite the whirlwind year, Cannon isn’t closing the door on more children.

“There was a point in time where I was just like, ‘Nah, I’m done.’ And, then I was like, ‘Who am I to say that?’ It seemed like it was such an emphatic thing,” he said. “I never imagined that I would have 12 kids. So, it’s one of those things where I love children. I love my life, and if it could keep going in the direction that it’s going, why not?”

Cannon is also preparing to launch a new podcast, Nick Cannon @ Night, where he’ll share relationship advice and personal insights. The show is expected to premiere later this year.

Beyoncé, JAY-Z Face Off In High-Stakes Emmy Race

Beyoncé is going head-to-head with her husband Jay-Z for a 2025 Emmy after both landed nominations in the Outstanding Variety Special (Live) category for separate high-profile performances.

The Beyoncé Bowl halftime show, which streamed on Netflix during the NFL’s Christmas Day game, earned the 32-time Grammy winner her latest Emmy nod.

Meanwhile, Jay-Z, whose real name is Shawn Carter, received a nomination as an executive producer of Kendrick Lamar’s Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show.

This isn’t Jay-Z’s first time in this Emmy lane.

He previously won the same award in 2022 for his production work on the Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show, which featured Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, Eminem, Lamar and 50 Cent.

The Carters are no strangers to sharing the spotlight during awards season.

In November 2023, Beyoncé tied Jay-Z as the most-nominated artist in Grammy history after scoring nine nominations for her genre-blending album Cowboy Carter, bringing her career total to 88.

The couple’s journey began in the early 2000s, when they started dating after meeting in their early 20s.

They married in a private ceremony in 2008 and have since welcomed three children: Blue Ivy in 2012 and twins Rumi and Sir in 2017.

The 2025 Emmy Awards will air later this year, with winners announced during the live broadcast.

Donald Trump & Pam Biondi Fires Diddy & Epstein Prosecutor In MAGA Sacrifice

Justice Department federal prosecutor Maurene Comey lost her job Wednesday (July 16) week in New York’s Southern District after leading sex trafficking cases against both Sean “Diddy” Combs and Jeffrey Epstein.

Comey, the daughter of Donald Trump’s sworn enemy and former FBI Director James Comey, was reportedly dismissed by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who issued the removal with support from Donald Trump.

A letter reportedly mentioned “Article II of the Constitution,” pointing to the president’s executive powers, although no further explanation has been given.

The Department of Justice hasn’t commented. Neither the U.S. Attorney’s Office nor the White House, according to sources.

Comey was a lead in prosecuting Diddy, who is awaiting sentencing on October 3 for federal sex-trafficking charges. She also led previous efforts in the Epstein investigation and was part of the team that contributed to Ghislaine Maxwell‘s conviction.

Though the official reasoning hasn’t surfaced, the decision has been seen by President Trump’s critics as more political than procedural, as MAGA loyalists grow increasingly agitated over Biondi’s handling of Epstein-related documents.

Comey’s removal adds another wrinkle to a broader internal conflict within MAGA circles over the lack of transparency surrounding the Epstein case.

MAGA extremists have demanded access to sealed Epstein documents, growing increasingly suspicious over the Justice Department’s repeated claim that “there is no client list” and no evidence of blackmail.

Critics in conservative media are accusing the administration of hiding explosive information.

MAGA infighting has erupted, with some demanding resignations within the Justice Department over what’s being portrayed by hardliners as a government-wide cover-up.

Donald Trump himself has dismissed the outrage. He recently lashed out at the concerns, labeling critics “weaklings” and accusing his base of falling for a “b####### hoax.”

Barack Obama Relieved He Never Had Son

Barack Obama opened up about fatherhood and personal shortcomings during a revealing conversation on Michelle Obama‘s podcast, admitting he’s thankful he didn’t have to raise a son because he believes it would have been “more difficult.”

The former president, now 63, joined his wife on her show, Michelle Obama: The Light Podcast, where he reflected on parenting their daughters, Malia, 27, and Sasha, 24, and why he’s relieved they never had a son.

“I think we did a pretty good job of raising our girls, but I’ve said often that I think I would have had more difficulty raising a son,” Barack Obama said. Michelle, 61, didn’t hesitate to back him up, replying, “I agree.”

Obama explained that his concern wasn’t about discipline or expectations—it was empathy. “I think I might’ve been more judgmental, harder,” he admitted.

He also pointed to his own upbringing, which lacked a consistent male role model.

“I would’ve tried to—I’d like to think I would have been more self-aware enough to combat that,” he said. “But I just think father-son relationships, for me, particularly if I don’t have a dad around to show it to me, might’ve been more difficult.”

Obama’s father, Barack Obama Sr., was largely absent from his life.

In a 2021 Instagram post, the former president wrote, “I didn’t really know my father—he left my mother and me when I was two years old, and only traveled from Kenya to visit us once, when I was ten. That trip was the first and last I saw of him; after that, I heard from him only through the occasional letter.”

The episode adds another layer to Obama’s long-standing reflections on fatherhood, identity and the emotional gaps left by his father’s absence. The podcast was released in 2024.

Project Pat’s Son’s Accused Killer Arrested After Struggle With U.S. Marshals

A woman named Talia Jones was taken into custody Tuesday (July 15) in Minneapolis by U.S. Marshals after being charged in connection with the January shooting death of Patrick Houston Jr., the son of Memphis rap veteran and brother of Juicy J, Project Pat.

Jones, who had been wanted for facilitation of first-degree murder, allegedly resisted arrest when authorities located her. “She did not go quietly,” the U.S. Marshals Service said in a statement. Officials said she physically fought back and tried to avoid being detained.

The Memphis Police Department issued a warrant for Jones’ arrest on June 27, nearly six months after Houston Jr. was gunned down in broad daylight at the intersection of Ketchum Road and Long Street near Charjean Park in the Imogene Heights neighborhood. Officers arrived at the scene around 1:15 p.m. on January 10 and found Houston Jr. dead from a gunshot wound, according to a post on Twitter (X) from the department.

No further details about the motive or circumstances surrounding the shooting have been released.

Houston Jr.’s obituary confirmed he was 22 years old. A memorial service was held January 25 at M.J. Edwards Funeral Home in Memphis, with burial following at Memphis Memory Gardens.

Project Pat, born Patrick Earl Houston, is known for his work with Three 6 Mafia and his solo career, which took off after his 1999 debut album, Ghetty Green. He gained national attention with the 2000 hit “Sippin’ On Some Syrup” and has since collaborated with artists like Drake, Rick Ross and Denzel Curry.

Following his son’s death, Project Pat posted on Instagram, “Boy i thank God for another day. @breakinbaggs @gofoundation9 #letsgo.” DJ Paul, a founding member of Three 6 Mafia, responded with a string of prayer emojis.

Project Pat now focuses much of his time on prison ministry and runs the Go Foundation, a nonprofit aimed at outreach and rehabilitation for incarcerated individuals.

Jones remains in custody following her arrest in Minnesota.

Freddie Gibbs & The Alchemist Bring “Alfredo” To Life With New Movie

Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist brought their cinematic flair to the big screen with the premiere of Alfredo: The Movie, a short film debuting Wednesday (July 16) at Brain Dead Studios in Los Angeles to mark the five-year anniversary of their acclaimed 2020 album Alfredo and build anticipation for its sequel, Alfredo 2.

The film, which stars both Gibbs and The Alchemist, dives deeper into the noir-inspired, mafioso themes that defined the original project.

With a visual style pulled straight from classic gangster flicks, the short expands the world they created on wax, now brought to life on screen.

The Los Angeles premiere is set to include a live Q&A with Gibbs, The Alchemist and director Nick Walker, giving attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind the film and the upcoming album.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Freddie Gibbs (@freddiegibbs)

Released in 2020, Alfredo was praised for its cinematic production and vivid storytelling, earning a Grammy nomination and cementing its place as a modern Hip-Hop staple. The new film serves as both a tribute to that legacy and a teaser for what’s next.

Alfredo 2, officially confirmed by the duo, is expected to drop later in 2025.

While a specific date hasn’t been announced, the sequel’s cover art has already made waves online, featuring a nod to the original’s imagery—this time with hands puppeteering ramen noodles instead of fettuccine.

The buzz around Alfredo 2 has only grown louder, with fans and critics alike eager to see how the pair will evolve their sound.

Expectations are high for another round of gritty bars from Freddie Gibbs and lush, soulful beats from The Alchemist, with speculation swirling about potential guest appearances.

The short film adds momentum to the rollout, giving audiences a visual appetizer ahead of the full-course album expected later this year.

Donald Trump Calls For Special Prosecutor As All Hell Breaks Loose Over Former Bud Jefferey Epstein

Donald Trump is backing a special investigator to look into the MAGA mess caused by his former buddy and late creep, Jeffrey Epstein.

In an upcoming interview with journalist John Solomon on Steve Bannon’s War Room, President Trump reportedly backed the idea to lay to rest his MAGA base’s insatiable obsession with Epstein.

“Let’s just do it. Let’s get the trust of the American people, let’s get accountability and then let’s focus on the things that matter,” Donald Trump said during the interview.

Earlier today (July 16), President Trump flipped out over the Epstein drama blowing up inside his own MAGA base, torching “past supporters” and calling the whole thing “b#######.”

The president lashed out online after the DOJ and FBI dropped a memo saying there’s no Epstein “client list” and zero proof of blackmail, which basically nuked years of conspiracy theories pushed by far-right influencers and MAGA diehards.

Trump dragged Democrats and people who still believe the Epstein rumors.

“Their new SCAM is what we will forever call the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax, and my PAST supporters have bought into this ‘b#######,’ hook, line, and sinker,” Trump wrote in a long rant.

He also made it clear he is not a supporter of members of his MAGA base who are adamant that the Trump administration is hiding information.

“Let these weaklings continue forward and do the Democrats work,” he added, accusing them of falling for lies from the “Lunatic Left.”

This meltdown comes after U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi excited the MAGA base by saying she had an Epstein “client list” sitting on her desk.

However, the Trump administration abruptly closed the case, claiming there was no new information and nothing more to release.

Too late, though, because the damage was done, especially after Wired claimed the FBI’s video of Epstein committing suicide in his prison cell had three minutes cut out of it.

Now MAGA is at war with itself.

Some top voices like Dan Bongino have reportedly threatened to quit or demanded Bondi be fired, accusing the Trump circle of being shady and hiding facts.

Others say the whole thing’s a media trap and are backing Trump’s play to shut it all down.

At the center of it, Trump’s trying to spin the chaos as a win, bragging, “I have had more success in 6 months than perhaps any President in our Country’s history,” while telling people to stop talking about Epstein altogether.

TDE’s Punch Warns Akademiks For Bullying SZA & Joining In Nicki Minaj Beef

Punch TDE didn’t hold back when Akademiks‘ camp stepped over the line again. This time, the account was found targeting SZA, Punch’s artist at Top Dawg Entertainment.

Things escalated after Akademiks’ spin-off account, Akademiks TV, lashed out at SZA in the middle of a Twitter fight with Nicki Minaj. That page (which we know AK oversees) mocked SZA’s mental state and religious beliefs. The account said, “SZA snake ass can’t cry to Drake no more to protect her… She typed them s#### with tears in her eyes crying off the ledge.” WOW.

READ ALSO: SZA & Nicki Minaj Beef Explained By TDE’s Punch Amid Social Media Blowout

This is where Punch jumps in. “Y’all might want to chill. For real, champ. Let’s just keep it cool this time around or just give me a call, man.” Not sure if they talked, but this feels like a continuum.

Punch and Akademiks have clashed several times over Akademiks’ criticisms of Black women in rap. SZA happens to be one that is close to him. Punch has routinely checked AK.

On social media, Punch pressed Akademiks directly: “Ayo Akademiks, didn’t you say that the you personally write the captions for Akademiks TV or were you capping when you said it?” (I’m paraphrasing.)

And now we get to the part where everybody is focus on: The Nicki Minaj part. After Punch tweeted a new song called “Broken Barbies,” she went after him. The song has nothing to do with Nicki. Here are some of the posts:

Although Nicki directed some of her most vicious rhetoric toward Punch, he did not reply. He’s probably trying to avoid more mess. He’s only talking to another man about SZA. Seems like Nicki may be trying a legal strategy because she used some interesting terms like “purposefully used to cause financial damages” and “engage in a smear campaign against the brand.” Hmmmm are lawyers reviewing these tweets?

Akademiks pretty much talked out both sides of his neck. “Nicki on bad timing recently. She ain’t lying either. Everybody just too scared to say the s### she’s saying… She’s only been exposing the demons of this industry.” Uh-Uh.

He seems to be co-signing of Minaj’s behavior, but also saying she on “bad timing.” Meanwhile, Akademiks TV doubled down with insults and religious jabs against SZA. They call that “rage baiting.”

Salute Punch! He appears committed to shielding his team from bullying. I certainly see a different bully than Nicki sees. He also refused to be baited into warfare. We need to be better about establishing lines that cannot be crossed.

Wishful thinking.

Eminem’s “STANS” Documentary Hits Theaters Worldwide For One Weekend Only

Eminem is bringing his most devoted followers to the big screen with STANS, a new documentary hitting theaters worldwide for a limited run from Thursday to Sunday (August 7–10, 2025), spotlighting the intense loyalty and emotional connection that’s defined his fanbase for nearly three decades.

More than 135 AMC locations across the U.S. and over 1,600 theaters in more than 50 countries will screen the film, which dives deep into the culture of “superfandom” through the lens of Eminem’s most passionate supporters—known globally as “stans.”

Directed by Steven Leckart and produced by Eminem himself, STANS blends rare archival footage, stylized reenactments, and personal stories from real-life fans whose lives have been shaped by the Detroit rapper’s music.

The film also includes a new interview with Eminem, where he reflects on his legacy and the people who’ve followed him from the beginning.

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A post shared by Marshall Mathers (@eminem)

The title draws from Eminem’s 2000 track “Stan,” a song that not only introduced the term into pop culture but also helped define a generation of obsessive music loyalty.

The word “stan” was officially added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2017 and Merriam-Webster in 2019.

STANS made its debut at the first-ever SXSW London festival, earning early praise from critics. Ahead of its global release, the documentary will also have a weeklong awards-qualifying run at AMC Empire 25 in New York.

Tickets for U.S. screenings are available now through AMC, while international ticket sales begin Thursday (July 23). The film will eventually be available to stream on Paramount+.

A companion soundtrack featuring unreleased music from Eminem is also available for pre-order, timed to coincide with the film’s theatrical release.

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A post shared by Marshall Mathers (@eminem)

How Celebrities Are Changing Gambling Industry

The gambling industry is quick to adapt to cultural trends and celebrities are leading the next major shift. Celebrities are not only changing how gambling is advertised, they’re also influencing where people choose to play. Many fans follow the platforms promoted by their favorite stars and sometimes they do not even realize the differences between regulated and unregulated sites. Lately, some celebrities have been tied to casinos not on GamStop, which operate outside the U.K.’s self-exclusion system. These platforms offer fewer limits and more generous bonuses, which seems exciting.

The Celebrity Effect: From Sponsors to Game-Changers

Celebrity endorsements are nothing new, but their impact in the gambling sector is extremely strong. The reason is emotional, because fans tend to trust familiar faces. When a favourite singer, actor, or athlete promotes a betting platform, people are highly likely to engage.

One of the outstanding examples is Drake’s partnership with Stake.com, which is a crypto-based online gambling platform. Since the collaboration began, the rapper has livestreamed his high-stakes betting sessions to millions of fans. His activity has become a frequent topic in trending artist news, reflecting how entertainment and gambling now intersect more than ever. In one stream alone, Drake placed over $1 million in wagers, which caused impressive engagement on social media and betting forums.

According to Business Insider, Stake.com saw a 76% increase in user sign-ups during the months when Drake’s streams were trending globally. This was not just a short-term spike, as his recurring presence helped normalise crypto gambling among younger audiences and fans.

Athletes Turned Ambassadors

While music stars like Drake dominate livestream spaces, professional sportsmen are making equally powerful moves in sports betting. Many of them are now brand ambassadors or investors, so they make use of their popularity and loyal fan bases to advertise sportsbooks. Insights into online gambling preferences show that up to 46 percent of young individuals are more likely to try a new betting website if it is introduced by a famous sportsman. This demographic is particularly valuable to betting companies because they are digitally savvy, mobile-first and responsive to influencer-style marketing.

Gambling Becomes Entertainment

One of the obvious ways celebrities are transforming the gambling landscape is by turning it into entertainment. Gambling is not associated with anonymous online casinos anymore, as it is now a part of TikTok trends, live streams and music videos.

Let’s take DJ Steve Aoki as an example. The star has partnered with online poker platforms to host celebrity tournaments and design digital collectables. His influence has brought poker into the entertainment spotlight, especially for Gen Z audiences, who associate Aoki more with NFTs and virtual concerts than traditional casinos. This crossover between entertainment and gaming highlights how celebrity involvement is reshaping the way younger audiences engage with online betting platforms.

By bringing gambling into mainstream pop culture, celebrities are helping to break the stigma once associated with betting. Thus, the market appeal is expanding.

The Business Side: From Partnerships to Ownership

Some celebrities are more than just faces of campaigns because they are stepping into executive roles in the gambling world. A rising trend is celebrity co-ownership of betting platforms, which is possible through direct investment or strategic branding.

In 2024, there were rumours that 50 Cent was exploring the launch of his own U.S.-focused mobile sportsbook. Even though there was no official statement, the discussions alone were enough to highlight how lucrative and attractive this sector has become for entertainers with business savvy.

Even retired athletes are entering the tech side of gambling. They are investing in startups that focus on AI-based betting analytics, micro-betting tools and personalized odds platforms. These ventures prove that gambling is not just a paycheck for celebrities – it is a long-term business opportunity.

Regulation: The Other Side of Fame

At the same time, the rise of celebrity involvement in gambling was noticed by regulators. Concerns are growing over the influence that famous figures, especially those with large underage followings, can have on young people.

In 2023 alone, the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) banned eight gambling ads that featured celebrities or influencers considered likely to appeal to minors. The ads included soccer stars, reality TV figure and YouTubers with large teenage fan bases. ASA warned that these promotions could “normalise gambling behaviour among impressionable viewers.”

Countries like Australia, Italy and Spain are also considering stricter rules on celebrity gambling ads, so there are proposals including age restrictions for endorsers and limits on social media promotion. This kind of regulatory attention highlights that there is always a fine line between celebrity influence and the way it is used, especially when it comes to an industry as sensitive as online betting.

Still, the situation is clear. Celebrity involvement is one of the most powerful forces shaping modern gambling. They can become anything from investors to brand ambassadors, but stars are making betting bigger, bolder and more mainstream than ever before.

EXCLUSIVE: Damon Dash Ordered To Court By Judge To Explain Himself Or Face Arrest – Here’s How He Can Get Out Of It

Damon Dash has been summoned to federal court in Manhattan after failing to turn over key ownership documents tied to a $4 million judgment.

The judge has grown impatient and warned Dash that he could be arrested if he doesn’t comply by the end of the month.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Lehrburger issued the order after Dash and his company, Poppington LLC, missed a July 10 deadline to submit certificates proving their ownership in several businesses and copyrights.

The paperwork was required so the U.S. Marshal could sell the assets at a public auction to help satisfy the judgment. As of July 14, the court confirmed that Dash and Poppington had not complied with the order.

Lehrburger noted this was part of a “pattern of non-compliance and delay” and scheduled a hearing for July 31 at 10 A.M., where Dash must personally explain why he should not face sanctions.

If Dash fails to appear, the court may issue a warrant for his arrest and impose financial penalties. However, he can avoid the hearing altogether by submitting the required documents by July 30.

The legal battle stems from a years-long dispute with filmmaker Josh Webber over the 2019 film “Dear Frank.”

Dash was removed from the project but later claimed ownership, prompting Webber and Muddy Water Pictures to sue for defamation and copyright infringement.

In 2022, a judge ordered Dash to pay $805,000 for failing to comply with court deadlines and refusing to participate in mediation.

The situation escalated after Dash made defamatory remarks about Webber on the Earn Your Leisure podcast. This resulted in a $4 million default judgment in 2025.

To recover the damages, the court approved the sale of Dash’s interests in several companies, including Dash Films Inc., Bluroc LLC, Blakroc LLC, Lebanon Improvements LLC, Ocean East Improvements LLC and 1996 Songs LLC. Poppington LLC was also ordered to hand over copyright certificates for multiple films.

Webber’s legal team confirmed Dash’s attorneys had not delivered the documents.

Earlier this week, they sent a letter to the court, requesting an arrest warrant and asking that the disputed assets be transferred to the U.S. Marshal for auction.

Dash previously sold his one-third share of Roc-A-Fella Records for a little over $1 million in December 2024, but the proceeds didn’t cover the full judgment due to outstanding obligations to the state of New York, which purchased the asset.

The court is now trying to enforce the remaining balance through asset liquidation.

The auction will be conducted by the U.S. Marshal, with any leftover funds returned to Dash after the judgment is satisfied.

SZA & Nicki Minaj Beef Explained By TDE’s Punch Amid Social Media Blowout

Nicki Minaj reignited tensions with SZA on Tuesday (July 15) after unloading a string of insults online, with the drama tracing back to a failed 2020 collaboration request.

During Wednesday’s (July 16) episode of The Breakfast Club, media personality Loren Lorosa shared details from a private text exchange with Punch, president of Top Dawg Entertainment, who offered insight into the origin of the rift.

“He said, ‘Back in 2020, Nicki Minaj reached out for a SZA feature on a song,'” Lorosa explained. “He responded and told Nicki Minaj that SZA was in album mode heavy and that he would get it over to her and that was it. They never spoke again. Feature didn’t happen, but he says he’s lost after that as well.”

The situation escalated when Minaj posted a photo of Punch with a caption that read: “Me after I suck some good zik. Guarantee you wouldn’t fight a man. We have every tweet of your incessant bullying, lying, & more. Your name was added to that s### list s##### drawers. Same thing that make you laugh make you…s###.”

SZA appeared to respond indirectly by posting, “Mercury retrograde .. don’t take the bait lol silly goose.” Minaj fired back with a pointed message: “Go draw your freckles back on b##### #JusticeForDemoree #DepositionPerez Liar liar pants on fire. Sounding like a fkng dead dog.”

SZA didn’t hold back either, writing, “I don’t give a f### bout none of that weird s### you popping.” She later added, “I get bullied by millions online every day then step my ass out onna packed stadium tour where ppl show me REAL love . IN REAL LIFE . My parents are healthy and I’m the most successful I ever been . GET SOME F*CKING PERSPECTIVE n BARK AT THE WALL !!!”

Minaj wasn’t done there, of course, and continued her tirade.

“Wait,” she said. “Does Sza think she’s more successful than me? Lol yall catch me up pls. Sza if every song you’ve ever done vanished right now the music business wouldn’t even miss you. I’ve been to countries that never heard of you. I know you’re not THAT stupid are you? Stadiums?

“Did you look at the venues I played on my OWN headlined FESTIVAL tour out of the country last year? B—h have you ever headlined to 80K ppl? Btch what have you ever done besides yodel with auto tune that needed retuning?”

Minaj continued, “Boo im an icon. You’re not. The end. Pay that man for almost breaking his back. … You the type that would’ve been quiet in school trying to fit in. You still have no clue who you are!”

Before this latest fallout, Minaj had already stirred controversy by targeting JAY-Z and Megan Thee Stallion in recent posts.

The back-and-forth unfolded just hours after Minaj’s social media spree.

Troy Ave’s Alleged Shootout Has People Asking Questions About Video’s Validity

Ayo! I can’t lie—Troy Ave stays outside. Outside. People call him a rat, but the boy does get active. But, there are questions with the latest thing.

So check this out. There is a wild video is going viral showing what appears to be Troy Ave clappin’ at a would-be robber in broad daylight. The was caught on camera. Troy pulls up in a Bentley with his homie Chef Geoff Cole, and BOOM. Somebody seems to try it—a jux. Troy Ave allegedly grabs the hammer and…yada, yada, yada…attempted robbery stopped.

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Now here’s where it gets weird. Troy gave a lot of people John Wick vibes. But there’s no official police report, no arrests, no victim updates…nothing. Even Della Reese had to talk to the cops.

This reportedly went down in San Diego after the Chef Fest event. Geoff Cole even saluted Troy on IG, thanking him for saving the day. The whole thing could have been something more tragic – reminiscent of Pop Smoke or PnB Rock.

READ ALSO: Pop Smoke Case Wraps Up, Judge Gives Killer Lengthy Sentence

There’s always a “but.” BUT…isn’t Troy Ave a felon? Remember that Taxstone situation in 2016? Can felons have gats in Cali? Somehow, I am thinking he would be jammed up if this found its way to the cops. Maybe…that has not happened yet? New York and Cali do not play with their gun laws.

Jackboys will pop out and not care who you are. Well, they care! They won’t rob me because there’s nothing to take. They want what’s in your pocket, but hopefully they do not want your life.

Stay tuned. Something tells me we’ll hear more about this later.

-illseed out
“You ain’t heard this from me… you heard this from the streets.”

Nicki Minaj Explodes After SZA Flaunts Career Milestones Amid Heated Online Feud

Nicki Minaj lashed out on social media after SZA highlighted her chart-topping achievements during their escalating online feud that began Tuesday (July 16) over a perceived subtweet and a long-simmering tension involving SZA’s manager.

The drama erupted after SZA shared a tweet—”Mercury retrograde .. don’t take the bait lol silly goose”—which Minaj interpreted as a jab, despite SZA’s denial.

That post lit the fuse for a barrage of insults from Minaj, who ridiculed SZA’s vocals, looks and career trajectory.

Minaj’s supporters, known as the Barbz, quickly jumped in. One user tweeted at SZA, “Baby, you inserted your self in some s### that didn’t involve you. You ARE NOT THE VICTIM.”

SZA fired back, “I wasn’t even talking about or to anyone I had just got off stage talkin bout retrograde. N##### @‘d ME. The F### YES IM MAD NOW DO YOU NEED THAT !??”

As the back-and-forth intensified, another Minaj fan tried to downplay SZA’s credibility, writing, “Girl you on a joint tour do that s### solo.” SZA clapped back with receipts, sharing a screenshot showing her SOS Tour grossed $100 million. “What the f### you wanna see lemme know,” she wrote, noting the milestone placed her alongside Tina Turner, Rihanna and Beyoncé as one of the few Black women to hit that mark.

She followed up with, “Lmao lemme go back to being calm shy and meek. Yall have blessed night ! See you tomorrow for night 2 Paris !!”

Minaj, clearly not done, responded with “Shutup ugly,” then added, “I’m in a meeting so idk if u was still talking s### or not so if you didn’t I’ll delete later. Hoe.”

SZA then pivoted to celebrating her own wins, announcing that her album SOS became the “first diamond album .. in under 3 years,” and that her earlier project CTRL had reached seven-times platinum status.

Minaj unleashed another tirade: “Wait. Does Sza think she’s more successful than me? Lol yall catch me up pls. Sza if every song you’ve ever done vanished right now the music business wouldn’t even miss you. I’ve been to countries that never heard of you. I know you’re not THAT stupid are you?”

She continued, “Stadiums? Did you look at the venues I played on my OWN headlined FESTIVAL tour out of the country last year? B#### have you ever headlined to 80K ppl? Btch what have you ever done besides yodel with auto tune that needed retuning? Boo im an icon. You’re not. The end.”

Minaj then accused SZA of staying silent when her manager, TDE’s Terrence “Punch” Henderson, allegedly harassed her. “Why didn’t u speak up when your exec was bullying & harassing me ya dirty mangy c###?” she wrote.

The rapper also took aim at SZA’s release strategy, saying, “B#### put out a whole new album as a deluxe to an already existing album that was out for like a year or 2 so the original album could break records. Like what in the insecure lack of morals & integrity you doing? I thought she was like a real artist? Girl bye.”

Minaj didn’t stop there. She reposted alleged old tweets from SZA criticizing other female artists, writing, “Like do you know the level of inside HATE for yourself you had to have had to be this much of a c### for no reason to the women you later worked with? Now wanna act like you a mthfkn tarot card, b#### quit. What an odd little weirdo.”