Nicki Minaj reconnected with Lil Wayne on the remix of “Banned From NO” and let loose, taking shots at JAY-Z, the NFL and Shannon Sharpe while celebrating their Young Money roots.
Released Tuesday (June 11), the surprise remix dropped just days after Wayne’s Tha Carter VI hit streaming platforms on Thursday (June 6), notably without a Nicki feature—something many had speculated would appear.
The remix not only filled that gap but also quickly sent Nicki Minaj trending to the top of X (Twitter).
On the track, Minaj delivers a hook packed with NBA team name wordplay, but it’s her verse that stirred up conversation.
She fires off a line aimed at Sharpe: “If I send a pic of Shannon, you ain’t that Sharpe.”
She later broke down the lyric on X, referencing a February 2024 moment when Sharpe threw some shade in her direction.
“If I send a pic of Shannon, you ain’t that sharp!!!!” she wrote. “Yeah n#### you thought I forgot that ‘Nicki who’ s### you did? LMFAOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO j/k.”
She added, “Ochocinco almost caught a strizzy just by being around yo crazy tail self.”
If I send a pic of Shannon, you ain’t that sharp!!!!
Yeah n#### you thought I forgot that “Nicki who” s### you did? 🤣😩🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Before wrapping her verse, Minaj turned her attention to the NFL and JAY-Z, calling them out for not selecting Wayne to perform at the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show in his hometown of New Orleans.
“NFL, fire some n##### and then call us!” she rapped.
The remix marks the first time Nicki Minaj and Lil Wayne have collaborated since her 2023 album Pink Friday 2.
She promoted the track on Instagram, calling Wayne “the GOAT” and posting old photos of the two from their Young Money days.
The original “Banned From NO” appears on Tha Carter VI, which includes 19 tracks and features from several unexpected artists.
N.O.R.E. has launched the Drink Champs Podcast Network alongside longtime collaborator DJ EFN to expand their Hip-Hop-rooted media empire and spotlight emerging voices across culture and entertainment.
The new venture, announced Tuesday (June 10), builds on the success of their flagship show, Drink Champs, which has become a staple in Hip-Hop media for its unfiltered interviews.
The team described the network as “a new home for culture-shifting conversations and original content rooted in hip-hop and beyond.”
The first show under the new banner is Roc Solid, hosted by Memphis Bleek and produced in partnership with the Black Effect Podcast Network and iHeartMedia.
The debut marks a strategic move by N.O.R.E. to create a broader platform for voices that have shaped and continue to influence Hip-Hop culture.
“We’re eager to share all we’ve learned in helping trailblaze in this space,” said the co-hosts. “Our goal is to set people up not only for success but with the tools to forge their own lanes!”
Since its early days, Drink Champs has evolved from a laid-back conversation series into a cultural force.
The show has featured prominent names like Will Smith, Diddy, Kanye West and Snoop Dogg and built a reputation for pulling back the curtain on the music industry through honest, often unpredictable interviews.
Mariah Carey has inked a multi-album agreement with Gamma, the independent music company helmed by Larry Jackson, as she readies her first studio album in nearly a decade.
The five-time Grammy winner, 56, recently dropped “Type Dangerous,” the lead single from her upcoming 16th studio project.
The track marks the start of a new era for Carey, who has now joined a roster at Gamma that includes Usher and Snoop Dogg.
“What Larry Jackson is building at Gamma is beyond music. It’s a cultural shift, and I’m excited to be part of something that honors legacy while pushing boundaries,” Maria Carey told Forbes.
She added, “This next chapter is about owning my narrative and creating freely on my own terms.”
While the album’s title and release date remain under wraps, Carey confirmed she’s working alongside longtime collaborator L.A. Reid, who is executive producing the record.
Reid previously signed her to Island Def Jam in the early 2000s and helped steer her 2005 comeback album The Emancipation of Mimi, which sold over 10 million copies worldwide.
This new project will be Carey’s first full-length release since Caution in 2018, which debuted in the top five on the Billboard 200 and received critical praise for its production and vocal performances.
Gamma, founded in 2023, has quickly become a destination for legacy artists seeking creative control and ownership.
The company’s strategy focuses on artist empowerment and cross-platform storytelling.
Mariah Carey’s new deal signals a fresh chapter in a career that has spanned more than three decades and produced 19 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100.
A release date for the album has not been announced.
Real Bleeda was arrested Tuesday (June 10) in Baton Rouge for the 2024 killing of a local community leader, marking the latest in a series of violent incidents tied to the 22-year-old rapper.
Authorities say Real Bleeda, born David Catherine, is facing a first-degree murder charge in the September 15 shooting of Teressa Calligan, a respected educator and dean of coding for the Futures Fund at the Walls Project.
According to WBRZ, she was gunned down at the intersection of Airline Highway and Greenwell Street in Baton Rouge.
At the time of his arrest for the murder, Real Bleeda was already out on bond for unrelated gun and drug charges stemming from a January 2025 arrest.
His legal troubles escalated in May when he was caught on video allegedly brandishing a firearm during a confrontation with suspected rival gang members outside Pecanland Mall in Monroe.
He was arrested two days later on Tuesday (May 21) and booked on Tuesday (May 28) on two counts of aggravated assault with a firearm, rioting and illegal weapons possession.
His bond in that case was set at $22,500, according to AllHipHop_._
Real Bleeda, a documented member of the Bleedas street gang, was also taken into custody again on Saturday (May 25) at a relative’s home in West Baton Rouge Parish.
The murder of Calligan, a well-known advocate for youth education and tech access, has drawn widespread attention. Her death rattled the Baton Rouge community and prompted calls for accountability from civic leaders.
Real Bleeda is scheduled for a bond review hearing on Wednesday (July 17) and a motion hearing on Monday (August 12).
Diddy could see his high-profile federal trial unravel dramatically as legal analyst Dr. Phil McGraw warned the prosecution’s case—built on emotionally charged testimony and sweeping allegations—may not meet the legal threshold required for conviction.
Now, four weeks into proceedings, the music mogul is facing serious federal charges, including racketeering, sex trafficking and transporting individuals for prostitution.
However, according to Dr. Phil, the government’s case may be legally flimsy despite its emotional weight.
“They may have thought their evidence against Combs was so emotionally powerful, so sensational that a jury would be so offended that they’d convict Combs regardless of whether the facts precisely line up with the charges,” Dr. Phil told The Daily Mail.
Dr. Phil believed the defense would ask for a directed verdict, also known as a judgment as a matter of law, which would allow U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian to dismiss the case before it reaches the jury if he determines the prosecution hasn’t presented enough evidence to support a conviction.
The most scrutinized testimony came from Cassie Ventura, Diddy’s former partner, who took the stand on Tuesday and Wednesday (May 13–14).
Her account painted a disturbing picture of abuse and coercion, but Dr. Phil argued that her testimony, while emotionally impactful, may not satisfy the legal standards for the crimes charged.
“None of that is illegal in and of itself,” Dr. Phil argued.
The prosecution’s reliance on Ventura as a central witness has raised eyebrows, especially given her complicated personal history with Diddy. Dr. Phil said the legal bar for proving a RICO conspiracy or sex trafficking is far higher than simply presenting disturbing anecdotes.
“The prosecution may have overcharged this case—by sipping on what I call ‘sweet poison,'” Dr. Phil said.
Dr. Phil likened the situation to the infamous O.J. Simpson trial, highlighting the disparity between public perception and legal evidence.
Legal experts say the defense is likely to file a motion for a directed verdict in the coming days, potentially ending the trial before the jury even deliberates.
If granted, it would be a major blow to the government’s case and a stunning turn in one of the most closely watched celebrity trials in years.
The trial remains ongoing as of Tuesday (June 10).
Kanye West has reportedly filed to change his name again—this time to “Ye Ye”—according to new business records submitted in California and first reported by The U.S. Sun on Monday(June 9).
In October 2021, the rapper legally changed his full name from Kanye Omari West to Ye, a decision approved by a Los Angeles judge.
However, filings list “Ye Ye” as the name associated with several of his companies, including Yeezy Apparel, Yeezy Record Label LLC and Getting Out Our Dreams Inc.
The paperwork was submitted by Hussain Lalani, the Chief Financial Officer of the producer’s many ventures. The filings do not include a reason for the change and he himself has yet to confirm it.
When West first changed his name, he explained the decision during an interview with Big Boy, saying, “I believe ‘Ye’ is the most commonly used word in the Bible, and in the Bible it means ‘you.’ So I’m you, I’m us, it’s us.”
“I believe 'ye' is the most commonly used word in the Bible, and in the Bible it means 'you,' So I'm you, I'm us, it's us. It went from Kanye, which means the only one, to just Ye”
As of Tuesday (June 10), no court documents have surfaced confirming a legal name change to “Ye Ye,” and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has not listed any updates regarding the new moniker.
Drake transformed his private NBA-sized basketball court into a sprawling wardrobe display inside his Toronto estate on Tuesday (June 10) to showcase his massive T-shirt collection.
He posted the transformation on Instagram with the caption, “Where’s that one shirt though…”
The post gave followers a rare peek inside “The Embassy,” the rapper’s 50,000-square-foot mega-mansion, where the court—usually reserved for jump shots—was covered wall-to-wall with color-coded racks and tables stacked high with thousands of tees.
The shirts were sorted by hue and sleeve length, a detail that didn’t go unnoticed by eagle-eyed viewers who spotted vintage sportswear and what appeared to be a Queensland Reds rugby jersey from his Australian tour.
The display wasn’t just about fashion—it was a flex.
The Grammy-winning artist, known for his affinity for luxury, utilized the space to blend his passions for sports, style, and spectacle.
The court, part of a $150 million estate designed by Canadian architect Ferris Rafauli, sits beneath a 21-square-foot pyramidal skylight and is just one of many extravagant features in the home.
Other standout elements of the mansion include a 4,000-pound black marble bathtub, a two-story closet with diamond-tufted shearling seating and amethyst drawer pulls, and a piano designed in collaboration with Bösendorfer and Japanese artist Takashi Murakami.
Drake once told Architectural Digest he wanted the home to reflect “overwhelming high luxury” and be a structure that would “stand firm for 100 years.”
Macklemore was the target of a terrifying home invasion early Saturday (June 7) in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, where masked intruders assaulted his children’s nanny and ransacked the residence while his three young kids were inside.
His family believes the break-in may be linked to his outspoken support for Palestinian rights.
According to Seattle police, two masked men wearing tactical vests and gloves entered the home just before 1 a.m. through an unlocked patio door.
The Hip-Hop artist, whose real name is Ben Haggerty, was not home at the time.
Inside the house were the nanny and Macklemore’s three children—Sloane, Colette and Hugo. One of the intruders sprayed the nanny in the face with bear mace.
Then, one of them demanded, “Where are the jewels, b####?” The suspects tore through the home, stealing jewelry, designer shoes and watches worth thousands of dollars.
The nanny was thrown to the ground, had her phone taken and was physically restrained during the ordeal. She managed to bite one of the attackers, escape through a bathroom and run to nearby homes to call for help.
Doorbell camera footage captured her fleeing the house and seeking assistance from neighbors. Police arrived to find the home in disarray and the air still thick with bear spray residue.
The children were unharmed and later placed with family members.
No arrests have been made as of Tuesday (June 10). The Seattle Police Department’s Robbery Unit and Latent Prints Unit are actively investigating the incident.
The nanny reportedly told authorities she believed the attack may have been politically motivated. Macklemore has been vocal in his support for
Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. In March, he delivered a speech at a pro-Palestinian rally in Washington, D.C., saying, “I believe it is our moral obligation to adamantly protest the atrocities we are witnessing and funding, or we are complicit.”
He also released a video on Instagram criticizing U.S. foreign policy and calling for a ceasefire. His activism has drawn both praise and backlash online.
Some supporters have applauded his stance, while others have accused him of spreading misinformation.
Kevin Hart wasted no time lighting up the 2025 BET Awards stage on Monday (June 9) with a sharp-edged monologue that took aim at Kanye West, Diddy and Cardi B, mixing pop culture jabs with real-time drama.
“Oh s###, it’s Kanye,” Hart said, pretending to read from his phone. “Yep, he says he’s out front; he’s waiting for somebody to invite him in.”
Hart added, “Hey! Don’t do it. We all saw the movie Sinners, don’t let his ass in here, so he could bite somebody, so he can bite Playboi Carti again, okay?”
He followed up with, “Nobody let Kanye in, no! Not tonight!”
“We all saw the movie Sinners… Don't let [Ye] in so he can bite Playboi Carti, again”
The joke referenced the ongoing fallout between West and Playboi Carti, which began earlier this year when Carti dropped his third album, MUSIC, without including West.
Things got worse in May when West released “Alive” with NBA YoungBoy—a track Carti claimed was stolen.
Hart also took a swipe at Diddy, referencing the mogul’s alleged “freak offs” without naming him directly.
“No after parties tonight. Take your a#### home after this; that’s why I did this on a Monday,” Hart said. “People gotta go to work tomorrow… That’s where s### gets slippery, at them g###### afterparties. We’re learning a lot about people, ain’t we?”
Then came Cardi B and her boyfriend Stefon Diggs, who were recently caught in a swirl of gossip after a yacht video surfaced showing Diggs handing out a small pink bag, prompting online speculation about “pink cocaine.”
Hart didn’t hold back: “No yachts, no boats. Cardi B, no pink stuff. What the f### was that? None of that stuff. Everybody’s gonna get hit tonight. We’re live. It’s gonna be a good time.”
Dr. Khalid Muhammad is at the center of a trio of federal lawsuits filed in California, as his estate accuses top Hip-Hop artists and major record labels of exploiting his speeches without credit or compensation.
The legal complaints target music giants behind tracks by Tupac Shakur, Public Enemy and D’Angelo, alleging they used Muhammad’s voice and words without permission, licensing or payment.
The estate is seeking $5 million per infringement, plus legal fees and a permanent injunction to halt further use.
“These lawsuits are not an attack on Public Enemy, Tupac’s family or D’Angelo,” said attorney Malik Zulu Shabazz, who represents the estate. “They are about accountability. The record labels and music corporations exploited Khalid Muhammad’s voice for profit, just like they’ve done to the Black artists whose songs featured him. Most of these artists don’t even own the rights to their own music. They’ve been exploited too.”
The legal war has expanded to include D’Angelo and The Vanguard’s “1000 Deaths.”
Most notably, the Public Enemy classic “Night of the Living Baseheads” could be fundamentally altered if the legendary intro featuring Dr. Muhammad’s voice were removed.
The estate claims these songs, some of which are considered Hip-Hop milestones, sampled Muhammad’s speeches without clearance, despite generating millions in revenue and critical acclaim.
Muhammad, a former spokesman for the Nation of Islam and a prominent figure in the Black Panther movement, was known for his unfiltered speeches and advocacy for Black empowerment.
His estate argues that while his voice helped shape the tone and message of these records, his name was omitted and his family never received compensation.
“Khalid Muhammad should have received proper credit on these iconic records,” Shabazz said. “His legacy matters. These funds will be used to fulfill his mission through schools, books, training academies, and documentaries about his life and message.”
The estate also confirmed that legal notices have been sent to other artists under review, including Ice Cube, Common and Black Thought.
They are demanding documentation of any licensing or royalty agreements involving Muhammad’s voice.
“Trump cut funding for African American institutions,” Shabazz added. “So, the family is building their own. This is about mission, not just money. The industry has profited off his words for decades. That era of exploitation ends now.”
R. Kelly is fighting to get out of federal prison after his attorneys say members of the Aryan Brotherhood were recruited by prison staff to murder him in custody.
In an emergency motion obtained by AllHipHop, R. Kelly’s legal team alleges that Bureau of Prisons officials tried to orchestrate his death by enlisting white supremacist gang members inside FCI Butner in North Carolina, where the singer is serving a 30-year sentence.
Attorney Beau B. Brindley says one of the men, Mikeal Glenn Stine, was transferred to Butner with a clear mission: kill Kelly.
Stine, who has terminal cancer, allegedly backed out at the last moment and confessed the plot directly to R. Kelly.
“He was prepared to carry out the execution. But, in the moment when Stine got near Mr. Kelly, he made a different choice. He told him the truth. Stine told Kelly that he was sent to kill him. He told him how and by who. He told Mr. Kelly that his life was absolutely in danger. As a dying man with a long history of murder and violence in his past, Stine decided not to carry out his order,” Brindley said. “Instead, he decided to take this opportunity to expose Childress and the BOP for the decades of murder and violence that they have foisted upon the inmate populace while facing no consequences whatsoever.”
Another Aryan Brotherhood member, David Keith Harris, was also allegedly approached by prison staff and instructed to poison Kelly. Both men say they are willing to testify and submit to polygraph tests.
“This means that at least two avowed white supremacists and members of the Aryan Brotherhood have been approached by BOP officers and directed to take Mr. Kelly’s life. The one who failed to do so has now had his own life threatened. All of this is being done at the direction of Bureau of Prisons officers whose duty is to keep safe the inmates under their supervision,” Brindley said.
The motion also accuses federal prosecutors and prison staff of violating R. Kelly’s constitutional rights by stealing his private legal communications and using them to manipulate witnesses.
According to the filing, a Bureau of Prisons officer named Tawana Ingraham illegally accessed Kelly’s emails and phone calls, which were then passed to government informant Larry McGee.
McGee later admitted in online videos that he used the stolen materials to influence key witnesses to testify against Kelly.
Another inmate, Kishan Modugumudi, who once shared a cell with Kelly, confessed in a signed statement that he stole Kelly’s legal mail at the request of a federal prosecutor.
After Kelly’s attorneys obtained that statement, a prison official allegedly warned the singer that his life was in immediate danger.
Kelly’s legal team argues that the combination of government misconduct and credible threats to his life justifies his release to home confinement while he challenges his convictions.
Lil Durk was denied bond by a federal judge in Los Angeles on Monday (June 9) after prosecutors argued that the rapper posed both a flight risk and a threat to public safety due to the severity of his charges and past conduct.
The decision came down from U.S. District Judge Michael Fitzgerald, who ruled that no set of release conditions—including home confinement, GPS monitoring or private security—could prevent Lil Durk from fleeing or endangering others.
The 32-year-old Chicago native faces charges that carry a mandatory life sentence without parole, which the court said significantly increases the likelihood he would try to escape.
He’s accused of sending a team of hitmen to Los Angeles to kill Quando Rondo. The broad daylight shooting at a gas station resulted in the death of Saviay’a “Lul Pab” Robinson.
“The Court further finds that the government has proven by clear and convincing evidence that no combination of conditions would reasonably assure the safety of any other person and the community,” Judge Fitzgerald stated in his ruling.
Prosecutors pointed to an attempted trip to Dubai shortly after a murder involving Durk’s associates, arguing the timing suggested an effort to flee.
While Durk’s legal team claimed the travel was for “business and spiritual reasons,” the judge wasn’t convinced.
“Defense counsel quibble with some of the Government’s conclusions, but the defense has made no showing that the specific trip to Dubai was pre-planned,” Judge Fitzgerald wrote. “There is no evidence that he intended to do so that day for any reason apart from the murder and resulting arrests of the codefendants.”
The court also rejected financial assurances offered by Durk’s supporters, including $150,000 from a backer, his mother’s home, and a $1 million pledge from Alamo Records/Sony.
Judge Fitzgerald dismissed these offers as insufficient, citing Durk’s considerable wealth and ability to generate income abroad.
“The proffered funds are only a fraction of Defendant’s net worth. Moreover, Defendant would still have his intellectual property with which to earn a handsome living abroad,” the judge noted.
Concerns about Durk’s influence over potential witnesses also contributed to the decision. Prosecutors submitted sealed affidavits and statements from informants and witnesses in a related Chicago case, alleging the rapper used his money and status to intimidate others.
Even while in custody, Durk reportedly misused phones at the detention center.
Though the court acknowledged the calls were for personal and business matters and didn’t involve new crimes, Judge Fitzgerald said the behavior showed how easily Durk could violate rules if released.
“The Court does not dispute the representation that the violations were for personal and business reasons, with no new criminal conduct discussed. Still, how easy it would be to plot from home, with even fewer restrictions applied,” he wrote.
Durk remains in federal custody as he awaits trial.
Did you ever walp past a slot machine and started nodding along to the music? Like, really into it? You’re not alone. Slot machine soundtracks have evolved from dull background loops to full-blown mini-anthems. And there’s a reason for that.
These sounds aren’t just there to fill silence. In today’s casino world, music is part of the strategy – built to keep you vibing, focused, and spinning just one more time. Whether you’re hitting the digital reels on your phone or posted up next to a buzzing machine in a local gaming lounge, that beat you’re hearing is working overtime.
From Elevator Dribble to Earworms
Back in the day, most slot machines sounded like they were borrowing a tape from your grandma’s dentist. Bland, tinny, almost apologetic. It was functional but forgettable – background noise meant to go unnoticed.
Now? Not so much.
Today’s slot games come with full-on sound design – genre-matching beats, layered effects, mood-building music arcs. It’s not just filler anymore. It’s part of the show. Think eerie synths for horror-themed games, epic orchestrals for fantasy slots, and yes, even slick hip-hop beats on machines inspired by urban themes or real-world artists.
Why Sound Matters More Than You Think
Sound in slots does a few things really well. First, it creates emotional cues. Designers want you to feel something when you spin: tension, joy, suspense, anticipation. Music helps create all of that – sometimes more effectively than the visuals.
Second, it sets the pace. Fast, upbeat tracks can encourage quick spins. Slower, moody tones might make you pause and consider bumping your bet. And when you hit a bonus round? Expect the music to hype up – louder, faster, layered with new effects. It’s like your own mini victory concert.
Third, and this one’s key, good music keeps you playing. Studies have shown that certain sound frequencies and rhythmic patterns actually influence attention and behavior. So yeah, there’s a bit of psychology baked into that “you just won!” jingle.
Hip-Hop On The Reels
Let’s be real – hip-hop belongs everywhere. Clubs, cars, courts, and now, even on the casino floor. Developers are finally starting to catch on. Over the last few years, we’ve seen a shift from bland bings and dings to actual basslines and 808s. Some online slots now feature soundtracks inspired by trap, boom bap, or club rap – complete with vocals, samples, and real structure.
It’s not just for the aesthetic either. For players used to scrolling Spotify or DJing their own playlists, that sonic identity makes the game feel modern, grounded, and frankly, more fun.
And while African casinos – including those in places like Tanzania – might still lean on more traditional machines for now, international platforms are already bringing hip-hop-inspired slots to mobile users across the continent. The influence is spreading, and it’s not slowing down.
So, What Makes a Great Slot Soundtrack?
Let’s break it down. A standout slot machine soundtrack usually has:
Strong thematic alignment: Music that fits the game’s vibe – not generic loops recycled across ten other titles.
Dynamic progression: Changes in tempo or intensity during wins, losses, or bonus rounds.
Integration with sound effects: Button clicks, win jingles, and spin sounds should blend with the backing track, not fight it.
Emotional hooks: The tune needs to be memorable without being annoying (a tricky balance).
Honestly, if you walked away from a session still humming the tune an hour later, that composer did their job.
The Final Spin
Slot machine music is having a glow-up. It’s no longer just background noise – it’s part of the experience, engineered to enhance every spin, every bonus, every big win. Whether it’s a beat that slaps or a melody that sticks in your head all afternoon, the soundtrack is doing heavy lifting behind the scenes.
So next time you step into a casino or load up a slot game on your phone, take a second to really listen. You might be surprised how much the sound moves the game.
And yeah – if the beat hits just right, maybe let it ride one more time. You’re already vibing.
The Game called for unity and resistance on Monday (June 9) as he stood with protesters in Los Angeles rallying against ICE raids and the arrest of labor leader David Huerta, urging Black and Latino communities to stand together.
“Ever since I could remember… it’s been black & brown in this city,” he wrote on Instagram, alongside black-and-white photos from the protests. “From the early days of my childhood til now, we’ve been side by side through it all. All of us. All the time. Not always seeing eye to eye but we’ve shared Los Angeles for a very long time.”
The Game continued, “I stand with y’all like I know you’d stand with us. ‘We might fight against each other… but I promise you this.. we’ll burn this b!%?! Down get us p##### !!!!!’ To live & die in L.A.”
Vic Mensa also weighed in, warning that the same systems targeting immigrants could easily be turned against Black Americans.
“The same oppressor that exploits the African abuses the Latino,” he said. “And please believe if they could figure out how to deport n#####…they been trying since the Emancipation Proclamation.”
Mensa connected the dots between ICE detention centers, U.S. prison labor and international human rights abuses.
“Don’t be fooled into believing this struggle is not ours,” he added.
He captioned his video message, “Why should black people care about ICE? Solidarity is strength,” adding “Common enemy common goal.”
Doechii used her moment at the 2025 BET Awards to call out Donald Trump and denounce the ICE crackdown and military presence in Los Angeles. She condemned Trump while accepting her award for Best Female Hip-Hop Artist on Monday (June 9).
Meanwhile, Kehlani showed support for Doechii’s speech, reposting it to her Instagram Stories with the message: “EXACTLY DOECHII EXACTLY.”
Tyler, The Creator kept it blunt in his own post earlier this week, writing simply: “F### ICE.”
The protests erupted across Los Angeles following a wave of ICE raids and Huerta’s arrest, drawing widespread criticism from activists, artists and community leaders alike.
Diddy was described as playing the role of Michael Jordan during orchestrated sexual encounters involving a male escort and his ex-girlfriend, who testified under the pseudonym “Jane” on Tuesday (June 10) in federal court as part of his ongoing racketeering and sex trafficking case.
The woman, who dated Diddy from 2021 to 2024, told jurors that the Hip-Hop mogul created a nickname for their trio—“trifecta”—with each person assigned a basketball legend.
She said Diddy was “Jordan,” she was “Kobe Bryant,” and the male escort was “Shaquille O’Neal.”
The testimony came during Day 20 of the federal trial, where Diddy faces allegations of operating a sex trafficking ring and using financial and emotional manipulation to control women.
Jane described a pattern of coercion masked as intimacy, saying she felt compelled to participate in sexual acts with other men to maintain her relationship with him. She said the emotional aftermath of those nights often included cuddling, foot rubs and what she called “lovemaking.”
Under cross-examination by defense attorney Teny Geragos, Jane admitted she stayed in the relationship willingly for years but said she was emotionally dependent. She also confirmed she is currently in therapy.
Jane said Diddy initially picked out her outfits for these encounters and had a preference for baby oil. She acknowledged that he had invested $20,000 in her fashion line and provided her with approximately $150,000 throughout their relationship.
When asked about Diddy’s drug use, Jane said she didn’t recognize it as addiction at first. Later, she noticed a pattern and wanted to help him return to his “natural form.”
Geragos attempted to portray the relationship as consensual and affectionate, suggesting Jane had told prosecutors she enjoyed “just about every minute” of their hotel nights.
Jane pushed back, saying she often had to endure sexual acts before Diddy would dismiss the other men.
She also said that over time, she came to view his behavior through a different lens, using the term “cuck” to describe his sexual preferences.
Call it a modern form of accountability or a digital witch hunt, cancel culture is one of the most polarizing phenomena of our time. It’s the collective call-out, often fueled by social media, where public figures face backlash for actions or problematic language. Some see it as a necessary way to confront injustice; others see it as a harsh system that leaves no room for growth or forgiveness.
In today’s social media-driven society, no industry can escape this intense scrutiny, including hip hop. More than just a musical style, hip hop has embedded itself deeply into everyday life. Its influence can be seen in everything from fashion and language to political activism and digital culture — even extending into leisure activities like online gambling. Today, it’s not unusual to see hip hop aesthetics and beats energizing casinos offering free spins bonuses and codes to activate them, where players find themselves immersed in a world soundtracked by the culture’s rhythm and spirit. As hip hop continues to spread into every corner of entertainment and lifestyle, it becomes clear: no amount of cancel culture can mute its impact.
This resilience has allowed numerous artists to do the unthinkable: claw their way back into the public’s favor after being canceled. Rather than letting past criticism silence them, these artists have taken time to reflect and then pushed forward with renewed strength.
Doja Cat
Doja Cat’s career has seen major highs and lows, but that hasn’t stopped her from making a comeback. After skyrocketing to fame in 2020 with “Say So,” she faced serious backlash when old videos surfaced showing her in controversial chatrooms. Accusations of racism and offensive behavior led to the hashtag #DojaCatIsOverParty trending, a slowdown in her social media growth, and a drop in Spotify listeners from 41.5 million to 34 million.
Despite the backlash, her music continued to perform well, “Say So” remained near the top of the Billboard Hot 100, and radio play stayed strong. Doja kept mostly silent, avoided dramatic apologies, and continued releasing new music.
Years later, she sparked controversy again by rejecting her earlier pop image, calling her albums Hot Pink and Planet Her “cash grabs.” She even lashed out at some fans, losing half a million followers. Once again, many claimed she was “canceled.” However, none of this stopped her success. After a widely praised performance at last year’s Coachella, Doja Cat contributed to the highly anticipated F1 movie soundtrack, further cementing her comeback.
Chris Brown
Chris Brown remains one of music’s most controversial figures, yet despite being “cancelled” after his 2009 assault on Rihanna, he’s continued to thrive in his career. After the incident, he lost endorsements, was banned from radio stations, and faced intense industry backlash. Many assumed his career was finished. Still, he released Graffiti months later, landing in the Billboard Top 20. By 2012, he won a Grammy for F.A.M.E., marking a return to mainstream success.
Brown’s legal troubles didn’t stop there, the singer has faced countless charges including probation violations, assault allegations, and time in rehab. He was later diagnosed with bipolar disorder and PTSD. These issues damaged his reputation, but not his commercial appeal. Though he’s been mostly shut out of major award show performances since 2009, Brown continues to release hits and collaborate with big-name artists.
While such incidents might end most careers, Brown’s fanbase remains loyal. His “bad boy” persona seems to fuel, rather than hinder, his popularity.
Travis Scott
Travis Scott enjoyed a steady rise to fame built on chart-topping hits, high-profile brand deals and a strong fanbase. However, that all came crashing down in November 2021. His Astroworld Festival in Houston ended in tragedy when a crowd surge claimed the lives of 10 people. The fallout was immediate: widespread public outrage, lawsuits, dropped brand partnerships, and calls for him to be “cancelled.”
Scott was heavily criticized for how he handled the situation, particularly for continuing to perform as the chaos unfolded and later attending an after-party. He claimed he was unaware of the severity of what was happening in the crowd and maintained that he didn’t know about the deaths until after the show.
The incident severely damaged his image. Sponsorships, like his major Dior collaboration, were paused. The launch of his long-awaited album Utopia was delayed, and public sentiment toward him turned sharply negative.
Despite the backlash, Scott didn’t disappear. Instead, he gradually returned to the spotlight. In June 2023, a Texas grand jury declined to indict him or others involved in the festival on criminal charges, a legal turning point that helped shift public perception. That same year, he resumed performances and began promoting Utopia, though that hit a snag when a planned concert at the Pyramids of Giza was canceled due to political and cultural controversy.
Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj is widely regarded as one of the most commercially successful female rappers of all time but wearing that crown hasn’t come without controversy. Over the years, the Anaconda hitmaker has found herself in hot water more than once, including high-profile feuds with fellow rappers like Iggy Azalea, Lil Kim, and Megan Thee Stallion.
Her public disputes haven’t been limited to the music world. Minaj has also clashed with celebrities outside the industry and drew criticism for agreeing to perform in Saudi Arabia, a country known for its human rights violations, particularly against women and the LGBTQ+ community. After learning more about these issues, Minaj canceled her appearance, signaling a willingness to listen and respond to public outcry.
More seriously, she has faced backlash related to her husband, who is a registered sex offender. Her decision to collaborate with Tekashi 6ix9ine, a rapper with a criminal record, further fueled criticism.
Despite these controversies, Minaj has consistently demonstrated her staying power, maintaining commercial success and cultural influence in the face of ongoing scrutiny.
Final Thoughts
While cancel culture may aim to hold people accountable, it rarely sticks in the hip-hop world, and likely never will. Why? Because hip-hop was born out of a need to give marginalized communities a voice. It has always been a raw, unfiltered genre, one where scandal, feuds, and controversy often add layers to the music rather than diminish it.
It also raises the question of whether we can, or should, separate the artist from the art. You can “cancel” Chris Brown, but that doesn’t stop people from streaming his music. As long as these artists continue to deliver hits, true cancellation remains nearly impossible. It would almost have to be the artist’s decision themselves to walk away as die-hard fans would never leave them.
Blueface’s father, Johnathan Porter Sr., faced online backlash after posting a video of an empty garage at the rapper’s Los Angeles home, claiming he moved Chrisean Rock’s belongings to a storage unit following weeks of no contact.
“I’m so sorry this is happening, but we’ve tried contacting the individual for the past 60 days, no response, no feedback regarding your personal belongings,” Porter Sr. said in the video. “So we had no choice but to respectfully pack it up and remove it to a storage facility. We will be mailing you the storage facility information to your last known address. You have no reason to enter the property that you no longer reside at. Please respect the property.”
In the caption, he added, “Blueface has officially moved on y’all. Until next time free Blueface. My son will be home soon.”
The clip quickly drew criticism across social media. Many accused Porter Sr. of seeking attention.
“Atp you just clout chasing because what was the point of showing this again. Chrisean moved on too,” one user wrote.
Another chimed in, “Just make sure your son respect her personal space as well.”
Others defended Rock, pointing out she had already distanced herself from the situation. “All Chrisean just got off probation and is living her best life. She didn’t want them clothes and she told y’all that.”
The incident dates back to April 2025, when Porter Sr. first went viral for packing up Rock’s clothes, shoes and personal photos at Blueface‘s request from behind bars.
“Blueface made that call, said, hey, it’s time to go. He ain’t playing this time,” he said at the time.
Meanwhile, Karlissa Saffold, Blueface’s mother, hinted at his upcoming release with an Instagram post promoting a “Blueface Coming Home Celebrity Bash” scheduled for November 3.
“The count down is official,” she announced. “Special Shout out to all the celebrities and fans who been keeping the prayers, love, and support, for the return of @bluefasebabyy !!!” she wrote.
Treach has backed Ras Baraka’s gubernatorial run with a powerful personal endorsement, calling the Newark mayor a leader “cut from a different cloth” during a live appearance promoting Baraka’s campaign.
“I done been through a lot of politicians and I don’t trust ’em,” Treach said. “So when it comes to somebody where I gotta stand for and say this is that dude and this is who you need to support and go vote for—it’s only for me. I keep my word is bond.”
Treach has long been a voice of the streets. Their connection runs deep, going back to when Baraka was still a school principal.
“He was calling me in when the kids was acting up… before being mayor, he was on the ground, in the streets, bringing the people together,” Treach explained.
The Hip-Hop vet emphasized that Baraka has always had an open-door policy, never turning away conversations from community members, no matter their background.
“He ain’t never say, ‘I ain’t got the time,’” Treach said. “He check that Rolodex and say, ‘Come in today at this time,’ and it’s been open arms since day one.”
Treach pointed to initiatives like Hakim Green’s 24 Hours of Peace, a yearly anti-violence festival in New York inspired by Newark’s own anti-violence work, as proof of Baraka’s impact.
“He was out there with that bullhorn screaming for peace way before he ever stepped in City Hall,” Treach said.
With the New Jersey primary being Tuesday (June 10), Treach urged voters to show up and show out for Baraka.
“Your vote really does count,” he declared. “The same way he be out there repping for people—even getting cuffs on for people—we got to be there and vote so he can have the power to do even more.”
The rapper also encouraged donations to support Baraka’s campaign, saying financial contributions could help amplify his message against well-funded opposition. “Usually the ones with the most money win. But we gotta make sure the people win this time,” he told Green and Creekmur.
Treach ended his comments with a heartfelt reminder that this election isn’t just about politics, it’s about the people.
“This is about the future of the youth, the community, the people. It ain’t just Black people—it’s for all.”
Diddy allegedly kicked down multiple doors and physically attacked a former girlfriend during a violent confrontation over a family trip to Utah.
According to testimony Monday (June 9) in his ongoing federal trial,
“Jane” told jurors on Day 19 of the rap mogul’s sex trafficking and racketeering case that a romantic evening turned into a brutal altercation after she questioned Combs about a young woman he had allegedly traveled with.
She described setting the mood with candles and red lighting at their home before the argument began.
After drinking champagne and tequila, she confronted Combs about the woman’s age and accused him of being attracted to someone she believed was under 21.
The conversation escalated quickly. Jane said she shoved Combs’ head into a marble surface and began throwing candles and glass objects.
When she tried to escape to the master bedroom, she said Combs kicked the door down and then broke through the bathroom door as well.
“He kicked his way into my closet,” she testified, adding that she attempted to flee but was tackled, choked and dragged back inside.
She said she ran six blocks away and hid for two hours before returning.
Once back at the house, Jane noted Combs kicked in the guest bedroom door and began punching her in the head while accusing her of trying to keep him from his children.
She claimed he kicked her while she was curled up on the floor, then grabbed her by the hair and arms and forced her back inside.
She testified that she went to the shower to calm down, where Combs allegedly slapped her, causing her to fall. She said she sat naked on the shower floor, exhausted, while Combs told her to “put some ice on it” and get dressed.
Jane said he picked out lingerie and heels for her to wear, then used her phone to play pornography on the television via screen mirroring.
The testimony follows a second mistrial request filed Saturday (June 7) by Combs’ legal team, who accused prosecutors of misconduct. The defense denies all allegations and has argued that the government is overreaching.
Combs faces five federal charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion. Prosecutors allege he used his business empire to exploit women through manipulation and financial control.
Jane’s testimony resumed Monday after she broke down on the stand last week.
The trial continues Tuesday (June 10) in federal court.
Wale confronted Twitch star Kai Cenat backstage at the 2025 BET Awards on Monday (June 9) after the popular streamer failed to recognize the Grammy-nominated rapper during a livestreamed run-in that quickly went viral.
The awkward moment unfolded live on Cenat’s IRL stream as he walked through the venue and crossed paths with Wale, only to blank on who he was.
“Wale. Oh, my god, that was somebody crazy,” Cenat said after the encounter, clearly caught off guard. “Hey, the whole chat knows him. Wale, what he do?”
Later in the night, Wale approached Cenat while he was mid-conversation with Snoop Dogg and addressed the incident directly.
However, Wale likely had not realized his words were livestreamed to Cenat’s viewers.
“That s### making me look crazy right now,” Wale told him. “Just letting you know. That’s making me look crazy, the exchange that we had in the hallway?”
Cenat, looking surprised, responded with a quick, “Oh! My bad.”
Wale then added, “I mean, they’re running with it; we’ll talk later.”
Wale confronts Kai Cenat at the BET Awards, saying he made him look crazy for not recognizing him earlier! 👀pic.twitter.com/I7IX7E8anV
— Kai Mafia Updates🗽💫 (@Kaimafiaupdates) June 10, 2025
Fans React To Wale Confronting Kai Cenat
Social media lit up after the clip circulated, with many weighing in on the awkwardness of the moment and Wale’s reaction.
One user wrote, “He just made it 10x worse lol.” Another
chimed in, “grown ass man worried about what the internet think bout him.”
A third commented, “bro nobody was even talking about it, now he brought the attention to it again because his ego got hurt.”
The incident was part of Cenat’s livestream coverage of the BET Awards, where he also interacted with stars like Kendrick Lamar.
The streamer’s presence at the show marked a notable moment for digital creators, as he and fellow content creator Druski were brought onstage by host Kevin Hart to present an award.
“Appreciate you, n####,” Cenat said to Hart onstage.
Hart, never one to miss a comedic beat, responded with a lesson in showbiz etiquette.
“I tried to bring y’all out here and give y’all an opportunity to get to the next stage, the next level,” he teased. “To do that, you need to understand professionalism. This is an award show, right? So what I want to do, I’m going to put y’all on. This is my job of passing the baton!”
