AllHipHop

Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five “Bury The Hatchet” Following Rahiem’s Public Apology

By: Kyle EusticeCategory: Exclusives

Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five was the first Hip-Hop group inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, largely thanks to their groundbreaking single, “The Message” (1982). Heralded as one of rap’s first socio-political songs, the track blazed a trail for MCs like Chuck D and KRS-One to deliver their own politically-charged content. But behind the scenes, tensions within the group were tearing them apart and they eventually went their separate ways. Melle Mel teamed up with Scorpio, Grandmaster Flash and Rahiem went on their own, as did Kidd Creole until his 2017 arrest.

Even as they were inducted into the famed Rock Hall, it seemed they’d never mend fences—until now. On Tuesday (August 8), just three days before Hip-Hop’s official 50th birthday, Rahiem issued a public apology to the fellow members of the group, bringing a longstanding grudge to a close.

“I’ve been doing a little soul searching and I’d like to extend an olive branch in light of this 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop to my beloved brothers Melle Mel and Scorpio of the Furious Five, and retract any ill or deragatory statements that I’ve made publicly about you that could have hurt you or your families,” he says in the clip. “I humbly apologize. It is my wish that I would love to see Grandmaster Flash, Melle Mel, Scorpio and myself once again take the stage and unify ’cause there’s a lot going on in Hip-Hop right now, and I think Hip-Hop needs our unification.

“I think this is much bigger than me and how I feel personally. I would just like to bury the hatchet, moving forward, no matter what happened in the past. We can’t move forward looking back. I employ that ideology and I humbly ask for your forgiveness for anything that I have said or done to make you feel slighted or disrespected. I humbly apologize. Hip-Hop needs this. Happy 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop.

Legendary New York City  promotor Van Silk tells AllHipHop, “The message from Rahiem is great for Hip-Hop. Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five are trailblazers in Hip-Hop. Just to see this as a part of moving forward is great. For me, it’s been 25 years working on this, but I’m happy to see my brother make the first step.”

Charlie Mack and Walter Reed Jr. also played integral roles in unifying the group, which Van Silk denotes in his caption. He wrote: “TIME TO MOVE FORWARD!!! Keep it positive!!! Apology Accepted!! Rahiem message to Mele Mel & Scorpio! The Olive Branch has be extended! As we all celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop @rahiem.official Rahiem from Grandmaster Flash & the Furious 5 extended the Olive Branch to Mele Mel & Scorpio his band mate. Let’s not forget Grandmaster Flash and our brother the #KiddCreole. TIME TO MOVE FORWARD! Let make magic again hopefully. Salute to #waltjrbigblocent & #charliemackfirstout. HIP HOP LIVES ON!!!!”

Van Silk has planned a giant blowout on Friday (August 11) from noon to 6 p.m. ET at Mill Pond Park in the Bronx with Public Enemy’s Chuck D, Chill Rob G, Fearless 4, Busy Bee Starski, Sweet Tee, Kool Kyle the Star Child and many, many more. Coke La Rock, the Original Spindarella, Pete Nice, Sheri Sher and Paradise will serve as hosts, while DJ Kevie Kev Rockwell will provide the music. An open cypher by Red Bull BC One and murals by the Thrive Collective—including TATS crew, Lady Pink and Queen Andrea—will represent the breaking and graffiti art elements of the culture.

Cardi B Money Moves: Microphone Thrown At Fan Sold For Almost $100K

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Cardi B unintentionally helped raise money for charity by throwing a microphone at a concertgoer. The infamous microphone was auctioned off for nearly $100,000 on Tuesday (August 8).

An eBay auction for the microphone closed with a winning bid of $99,900. The item was sold by the owner of The Wave, the audio company that provided the microphone for Cardi B’s show in Las Vegas.

Cardi B threw the microphone at a fan while performing at Drai’s Beachclub & Nightclub on July 29. Someone in the crowd tossed a drink at her, which led to her hurling the microphone at an audience member.

A woman reported the incident as a battery on July 30. Las Vegas police investigated but decided not to pursue charges against Cardi B.

“We were notified by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Dept. that as a result of their investigation, there will be NO charges against Cardi,” Cardi B’s attorneys announced on August 3. “On behalf of Cardi, we appreciate the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Dept’s diligent and prompt resolution of this matter.”

The Wave’s owner recovered the microphone and launched an online auction for it. He said 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Wound Warrior Project and a local Las Vegas charity called Friendship Circle.

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Jay-Z’s 2023 Made In America Festival Canceled—Fans Blame Lizzo

By: Kyle EusticeCategory: News

The 2023 Made In America festival scheduled to take place at Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway over Labor Day weekend has been canceled. According to an Instagram post shared on Tuesday (August 7), the annual concert ran into production issues beyond the organizers’ control. As the post explains, “Due to severe circumstances outside of production control, the 2023 Made in America festival will no longer be taking place. This decision has been difficult and has not been made lightly nor without immense deliberation.”

The post goes on to say the Made In America will return in 2024 and assured all ticket holders their money would be refunded at the original point of purchase. Of course, fans had their own theories as to why the festival was canceled—and they mostly blamed Lizzo. The ‘Truth Hurts” singer is currently being sued by three of her former dancers who accuse her of sexual harassment and weight-shaming.

One commenter wrote, “Ugggh thanks a lot Lizzo,” while another said, “No surprise when your headliner is literally being sued. And y’all lessen the genre of music and the number of artist,” sentiments that echoed throughout the post.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CvsL5zxxeNV/

2023’s Made In America  festival was originally scheduled for September 2 and 3 with headliners Lizzo and SZA. Additional performances were to include Miguel, TEMS, Metro Boomin, Ice Spice, Coi Leray, Latto, Lil Yachty, Doechii and Lola Brooke, among others. A “very special joint set” from Ma$e and Cam’ron were also on the schedule. Made In America was founded in 2012 by Roc Nation boss JAY-Z, who closed out the inaugural show’s first night.

“The Made In America festival has become synonymous with Labor Day Weekend,” Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez said in a statement earlier this year. “2022 was an overwhelming success with our headliners, Bad Bunny and Tyler, the Creator, all the amazing talent on the line-up, and the positive energy from all our attendees.”

Iggy Azalea Responds To Backlash For Supporting Tory Lanez Following Assault Conviction

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

Australian rapper Iggy Azalea found herself in the middle of the ongoing legal drama involving Tory Lanez and Megan Thee Stallion. Many critics blasted Azalea for reportedly still backing Lanez despite the Canadian musician’s guilty verdict.

In December 2022, a California jury convicted Tory Lanez (born Daystar Peterson) of assault with a semiautomatic handgun, having a loaded and unregistered firearm in a vehicle, and gross negligence in discharging his firearm.

The highly-publicized court case stemmed from a July 2020 shooting that left Hip Hop star Megan Thee Stallion injured. Apparently, Iggy Azalea wrote one of over five dozen letters to the judge set to decide Lanez’s sentencing.

“Judge Herriford got 70+ letters of support for Tory Lanez, including one from @IggyAzalea,” posted noted courthouse reporter Meghann Cuniff on August 7. Cuniff later added, “Judge Herriford said [Iggy Azalea’s] letter asks him to impose a sentence ‘that is transformational, not life-destroying.'”

As Meghann Cuniff’s first-hand account tweets spread across the platform, social media users slammed Iggy Azalea for supposedly asking for Tory Lanez to receive a light punishment for shooting Megan Thee Stallion.

In particular, many people pointed out the possible hypocrisy from Azalea because she previously made statements about violent male abusers. She publicly chastised her ex-boyfriend, Atlanta rapper Playboi Carti, for allegedly abusing women.

Iggy Azalea has now responded to the negative reactions to writing a letter to the judge on Tory Lanez’s behalf. The New Classic album creator shared a lengthy statement on the X (formerly Twitter) social media platform.

She stated:

For the record: 1. I have not been in touch with Tory for months, I have no reason to be, but I do wish him well. 2. I don’t “support” anyone. The whole thing is full of oddities. My letter never mentioned anything in regard to what happened that night. 3. I was told this was for a judge only, yet it’s being discussed in public? I never intended to publicly comment. 4. I am not in support of throwing away ANY ones life if we can give reasonable punishments that are rehabilitative instead. I support prison reform. Period. 5. I was asked to write about my genuine experience and the type of punishment I think he deserves: I did. It’s not really that interesting but I understand why it’s being sensationalized… 🤷‍♀️. See ya next week to discuss pizza toppings I suppose. Lol.

@IGGYAZALEA

Iggy Azalea and Tory Lanez do have a personal history. There were rumors that the two immigrants dated for a while. Plus, in October 2022, Lanez announced he would be executive producing an upcoming music project by Azalea. That proposed album has yet to come out.

https://twitter.com/IGGYAZALEA/status/1688741685075791872?s=20

Raven-Symoné Says Father “Strongly Suggested” She Get Dangerous Plastic Surgery As A Minor

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

Actress Raven-Symoné of “Cosby Show” fame shared a dark secret about coming up as a child star.

On an episode of The Best Podcast Ever with Raven and Miranda—the podcast she does with her wife, Miranda Maday—she said while working on “That’s So Raven,” her father pusher her to get plastic surgery because she was getting chubby. She said the first thing he persuaded her to do is get her breast reduced because people were calling her “fat.”

“I had two breast reductions and lipo before I turned 18,” she said. “There was paperwork involved. My dad suggested strongly that I should get my breasts reduced. He was like, ‘So you don’t feel bad, is there anything that you want?’ I was like, ‘Yeah, if I get lipo, will people stop calling me fat?’ So I got a two-fer. It was just a mess, just being that young and the pain of it all.”

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The Cheetah girl lead said she even suffered from a seizure after getting her first breast reduction.

“I remember waking up and seeing everything … and then I just started to have this dry mouth and couldn’t breathe and went back under,” she said. Find the full episode here.

Saweetie Promises “Spicy Content” With Fansly Page Launch

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

Saweetie is moving into a different realm of online entertainment by launching a new page on the Fansly website.

According to reports, Fansly serves as a competitor to the popular OnlyFans subscription service. Many sex workers and other adult content creators have moved to the subscription-based platform since 2020.

Saweetie announced her arrival on the Fansly app via Instagram. The 30-year-old rapper informed her 12.9 million Instagram followers that they will have access to exclusive music, BTS, and more on her Fansly account.

“I’m so hyped to team up with Fansly and give my loyal ICY GIRLS a peek into my world like never before. We’re about to bring the fire and empower creators to connect with their fans on a whole new level. Brace yourselves for some spicy content, baby!” says Saweetie in a statement.

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Saweetie received her first Platinum plaque from the RIAA for her 2017 breakout single “Icy Grl” off the High Maintenance EP. She went on to earn additional Platinum certifications for other tracks like “Tap In,” “My Type,” and “Best Friend” featuring Doja Cat.

Last November, the Warner recording artist dropped the 6-track The Single Life EP. Her music catalog also contains other projects such as 2019’s Icy and 2021’s Pretty Summer Playlist: Season 1. However, fans are still waiting for her debut studio LP.

“I feel like a debut album is not something you just put out,” Saweetie told E! News in March. “It’s not something you play with. I’m a Cancer so I like to overthink sometimes, but I think you have to be really careful with that and I take my art really [seriously].”

In addition to creating music and online content, Saweetie also tried her hand at acting. She had a guest star run on the college-themed Freeform sitcom Grown-ish. The California-bred entertainer played herself on an episode of Peacock’s Bel-Air as well.

Travis Scott’s ‘Utopia’ Opens At No. 1 With Nearly 500K First-Week Units

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

Travis Scott can now claim to have the biggest-selling week for a Hip Hop album in 2023. The Houston native’s Utopia skyrocketed to the top of the charts.

According to Billboard, Utopia debuted with 496,000 equivalent album units in its first week of release. That final total was enough for Travis Scott to easily take the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 rankings.

With Utopia leading the latest album chart, Travis Scott scored the third Number One of his career. Previously, the rapper/producer made it to the No. 1 position with 2016’s Birds In The Trap Sing McKnight and 2018’s Astroworld.

Utopia racked up 331 million streams for 243,000 SEA units. The project also amassed 252,000 units in pure sales. Both of those numbers represent the second-largest sums for the respective categories for the year.

Travis Scott even managed to sell 79,000 vinyl copies of Utopia during the initial tracking week. Luminate, the music consumption data provider, claims that is the largest vinyl sales week for a Hip Hop album since the company began calculating sales in 1991.

For Utopia, Travis Scott collaborated with a star-studded line-up of guest acts. The 73-minute project features Drake, Playboi Carti, Beyoncé, 21 Savage, The Weeknd, Swae Lee, Young Thug, Westside Gunn, Kid Cudi, Bad Bunny, SZA, Future, James Blake, and more.

Fellow Texas native Post Malone came in at No. 2 on this week’s Billboard 200 chart. His Austin album opened with 113,000 first-week units. Of that 113,000 amount, around 78,000 came from streaming equivalent album units.

A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie Names His NYC Mount Rushmore—Which Includes Himself

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

A Boogie wit da Hoodie grew up in the Bronx, the birthplace of Hip-Hop. The 27-year-old Highbridge native recently revealed which rappers he believes best represent his hometown.

On Monday (August 7), Rolling Stone posted an interview with A Boogie wit da Hoodie to its Twitter account in which the “Drowning” hitmaker names his Mount Rushmore of New York City artist.

“Hov especially,” A-Boogie said, referring to Brooklyn-bred billionaire Jay-Z. “Me, Hov, that’s two out the window. Shout out to Cardi B, the third one I would have to say when it comes to me just being a Bronx representative.”

Grammy Award winner Cardi B also hails from the Bronx borough. For his final selection, A Boogie focused on a Queens Hip-Hop mogul, saying, “Shout out to 50 Cent. I don’t know why I didn’t say him second. I had to say my name second. 50, that’s the big bro for sure.”

A Boogie wit da Hoodie and Don Q enlisted 50 Cent and Canadian music producer Murda Beatz for 2018’s “Yeah Yeah” single. In addition, 50 Cent’s “Big Rich Town (Remix)” featured A Boogie and R&B singer Trey Songz.

Throughout his career, A Boogie wit da Hoodie has released four studio albums via Highbridge The Label/Atlantic Records. His latest full-length body of work, Me vs. Myself, dropped in December 2022. The LP peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard 200 chart.

“This feels like my best project in that way where I can really listen to something in the car, something in the crib at the same time I was going out, still hearing it in the club. This is my favorite vibe right now,” said the 2017 XXL Freshman about Me vs. Myself.

Earlier this year, A Boogie wit da Hoodie kicked off his international Me Vs Myself Tour in Denver, Colorado. Rising Brooklynite Lola Brooke served as support on select dates. A-Boogie also hit the stage at the Lollapalooza Chicago festival last weekend.

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Offset Talks Recruiting Jamie Lee Curtis For “Jealousy” Skit

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

Atlanta-bred rap star Offset teamed up with his wife, Cardi B, for the new “Jealousy” collaboration. Set also worked with Acadamy Award winner Jamie Lee Curtis for a teaser.

Last month, Offset posted a skit featuring Jamie Lee Curtis to his social media accounts. The rapper and the actor recreated an infamous 1988 James Brown interview for the 2-minute promo video.

Curtis played a fictional talk show host, asking the Migos member about his rumored relationship troubles with Cardi B. Offset channeled the “Godfather of Soul” James Brown for his performance.

He later shared a behind-the-scenes clip from the set of the “Jealousy” trailer. At one point, an out-of-character Jamie Lee Curtis tells Offset, “Good luck. God bless you. Take care of those kids. Stay with your wife. Don’t f### it up!”

Good Morning America recently caught up with Offset to discuss his latest single as part of the morning show’s “Hip-Hop Turns 50” series celebrating the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop culture. ABC News correspondent Kelley Carter questioned Set about working with Jamie Lee Curtis.

“How that happened is I DM’d Jamie Lee Curtis on Instagram and said, ‘Yo, I got an idea. I would love to work with you.’ She wrote me back so quickly. She was like, ‘Yeah, I got you, but you need to follow me,'” recalled Offset.

The Father of 4 album creator continued, “That’s how I knew she was cool. So we got each other’s numbers. I told her the idea and she was ready to do it.” That conversation took place after Curtis won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for Everything Everywhere All at Once at the 95th Academy Awards in March.

Offset’s “Jealousy” featuring Cardi B debuted at No. 55 on this week’s Billboard Hot 100 chart. The celebrity couple previously collaborated on other tracks such as “Lick,” “MotorSport,” “Clout,” and “Type S###.”

Single Review: Izye Uses Pop Melodies To Tackle Murky Relationship Drama On New Single ‘Selena.’

By: Brxton LeeCategory: Music

Singer, songwriter, rapper, and producer izye has released her latest single ‘Selena’, securing her place as one of pop music’s most enigmatic new talents. 

Based in Los Angeles but originally from San Francisco, izye released her debut single at just 17, recording it in her childhood bedroom in 2019. If this was an indication that she wasn’t planning on wasting any time when it came to making and releasing hits, the last few years have been equally as productive for the artist. izye moved to LA to attend music school in 2020 before deciding to drop out and pursue her career on her terms. 

It was a gamble. But it paid off. In recent years, Izye has teamed up with producer KundoCrankin’ and created a ‘Signature izye sound’ which has seen her become a serious emerging talent, especially following the release of her debut album F**K BOYS, GET MONEY.

The new single ‘Selena’ is a sublime confessional track, with lyrics that read like open pages torn from izye’s diary. Over a skittering RnB beat, she admits to her possible-frenemy Selena that she wants her man. The lyrics are drenched in a kind of off-limits desire, with izye describing details about her friend’s man from afar, even as she admits that “he doesn’t know that I exist.” 

Pop tracks don’t come much more heart-on-sleeve than this…

His Latest Project Is Already Climbing The Billboard Charts!

By: Staff WriterCategory: Music News

In the dynamic and ever-evolving music industry, it takes a unique blend of talent, passion, and authenticity to truly stand out. Rising artist MeatSpady (@MeatSpady), hailing from Philly, is breaking barriers with his versatile sound and strategic approach to his craft.

MeatSpady’s love for music has been a lifelong affair, stemming from his early days as a child. However, it wasn’t until 2018 when he released “The Beautiful Letdown” mixtape that he saw how deeply his music could resonate with listeners. Fueled by the impact of his storytelling, MeatSpady decided to take a chance on his passion for music. Through ups and downs, he persisted, honing his craft to emerge as an independent artist with a unique voice.

MeatSpady’s sound can be best described as rooted in authenticity. His latest project, ‘The Same Kind of Different,’ is an 11-track project that remains true to who he is as an artist and as an individual. With a versatile range of influences that encompass genres from Eminem to Sade, and from Bob Marley to Bobby Caldwell, his music defies categorization. He purposely avoids comparisons, believing that expectations can often lead to disappointment. However, the influence of artists like J. Cole and Nas is evident in his deeply introspective and thought-provoking lyrics.

Among the memorable moments in MeatSpady’s music career, a recent milestone stands out—the album ‘The Same Kind Of Different’ entering #77 on the Billboard Top 100 Current Album Sales chart. In addition, he was also listed as #46 on the Emerging Artist chart. As an independent artist from Philly, this achievement is nothing short of extraordinary. With no major label backing or high-profile features, MeatSpady’s success is a testament to strategic planning, hard work, and the support of his team and fans.

As far as insight to his creative process, MeatSpady draws inspiration from real-life experiences, recalling moments that left a profound impact on him. He collaborates with producers who understand his vision and emotions, fostering a chemistry that translates into seamless production.

Like many rising artists, MeatSpady has faced challenges in the industry. He’s witnessed political dynamics and encountered individuals with questionable business practices. However, he remains steadfast in his principles, vowing not to compromise his authenticity or change who he is to fit into the industry mold.

Looking forward, MeatSpady has a clear vision for his future. Staying independent and true to his character, he aims to be a trailblazer, educating others on the benefits of charting their own paths. He aspires to leave the industry with the same honor and reputation he came into it with—consistency is the hallmark of his journey.

Beyond his music, MeatSpady’s thirst for knowledge may surprise many. Having read Webster’s dictionary from front to back twice, he’s a connoisseur of words and the intriguing meanings they hold. If not for music, he envisions himself as a traveling psychologist, driven by a desire to understand people’s thoughts and motivations while exploring the world.

Check out the project below:

To keep up with MeatSpady’s musical odyssey, follow him on social media:

Instagram: @meatspady [https://www.instagram.com/meatspady/]

Twitter: @meatspady [https://twitter.com/meatspady]Facebook: @meatspady [https://www.facebook.com/imeatspady]

Travis Scott Pays Homage As Ye Joins Him Onstage In Rome: “There Is No Travis Scott Without Kanye West” 

By: London JennnCategory: News

Kanye West made a roaring return to the stage, joining Travis Scott in Rome for his first live show since his antisemitic rants. 

The embattled rapper has taken to strolling around barefoot recently, and the “Utopia” concert at Rome’s Circus Maximus Monday was no different. Ye left his shoes and socks behind to step out on stage at the historic Italian arena Monday night (August 7).  

Scott introduced his longtime friend and collaborator as the “only one human being on this mother f###### planet that has ever walked side by side with me through anything and every mother f###### thing.” 

While he was a little rusty, forgetting some of the lyrics, Kanye West rocked the stage alongside Travis Scott. The duo performed Donda‘s “Praise God” and “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” from his 2007 album, “Graduation.” 

Travis Scott gave Kanye West his flowers for opening the door, praising the rapper for blazing a trail.  

“There is no Utopia without Kanye West,” he declared before adding, “There is no Travis Scott without Kanye West. There is no Rome without Kanye West.”

The crowd then lost their collective minds when Scott roared, “Make some noise for Ye.” 

Elsewhere during the show, La Fame shared his wish to hit the road with Ye, although he didn’t give a date.  

“Ye West — the illest of all m############ time,” Scott told concertgoers. “Hopefully one day we can do that G####### tour.” 

Meanwhile, Billboard announced Monday that Scott’s Utopia soared to the top of the Billboard 200. The feat marked the third-biggest week of 2023 for any album (behind Morgan Wallen and Taylor Swift). Travis Scott reportedly earned the second-largest streaming week of the year and the biggest vinyl sales week (in the United States) for a rap album since 1991. 

Usher Says He Stays In Relationships Because He Doesn’t “Like Being Alone”

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

There are a few playboys in R&B and Hip-Hop that everyone knows keeps a “baddie.” While many of them love ‘em and leave ‘em, few wife them. Grammy Award-winner Usher is one that wifes his girls—and now we know why.

In a recent interview with Vibe magazine, the singer went on record to talk about how come he falls in love so heavy and usually gets locked in.

“I think the hardest thing that I’ve ever had to do was be single,” he said. “Because I don’t like to be alone, the idea of creating a life with someone is what I would like to do, maybe because I didn’t have or didn’t see that. And I get to remedy that idea by having an incredible partnership. I can then have the thing that I ultimately wanted to see. You know what I’m saying?”

Consider his past connections, including his romantic involvement with former labelmate Chilli from TLC (from 2001 to 2004), his partnership with former stylist Tameka Foster (spanning 2005 to 2009), resulting in the birth of his two sons, namely Usher Raymond 5, affectionately known as Cinco, presently at the age of 15, and Naviyd, now 14.

He was also married to his former manager Grace Harry from 2009 to 2019. At present, he stands firmly alongside his newfound companion, Jennifer Goicoechea.

According to Atlanta Black Star, the couple proudly parent a daughter and son— Sovereign Bo, aged 2, and Sire Castrello, aged 1.

While he certainly loves being in a relationship, he’s recently been tangentially involved in the celebrity gossip with another. During his sold-out Las Vegas Residency, a visit by “Nope” actress Keke Palmer stirred up controversy. Her boyfriend Darius Jackson didn’t like how she was dressed and was dancing with the chart-topping crooner.

“I think everybody’s vision or a version of what they felt happened there just leads you back to just really having a good time in Las Vegas. And that’s what I hope came out of it,” said Usher. “Rather, it was a conversation of what was going on with us having fun in front of the audience or conversation about that song.”

He added, “Every night I’m thinking about how the world now is going to react to this moment that I’ll have with whoever I’m choosing to sing to. But it was a pop moment, and it was fun to have at least [a] conversation going and we just keep it light. I don’t see anything negative happening in Las Vegas.”

 

NLE Choppa Says Cops Arrested Him For Unannounced Mall Trip After Kai Cenat Link

By: Devon JeffersonCategory: Rumors

NLE Choppa is accusing police of arresting him while he shopped for gifts for his daughter—and it apparently went down just hours after he connected with embroiled streamer Kai Cenat—who himself was on the cusp of the legal fallout of his chaotic game system giveaway riot in New York City.

In an Instagram post on his personal account, Choppa shared a carousel gallery of photos and videos capturing his recent Festival performance and subsequent shopping spree. Several of the clips show Choppa and Cenat performing “Bustdown Rollie Avalance” live, seemingly hours after Cenat was in the custody of the NYPD.

While cookin’ up in the caption, NLE Choppa chose to egg the entire situation on and fry some bacon while he was at it. “For My 12Th Birthday I Turned 13, I Promise [bacon emojis],” Choppa, aka NLELLY wrote.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CvnjdFmR8kP/?img_index=1

A few slides into the post, NLE Choppa can be seen leading a prepubescent mob of rabid fans around a local mall as he attempts to shop. “I ain’t signing no autographs,” he quipped jokingly in one of the clips. However, matters quickly turn from happy-go-lucky to tense as the Memphis rapper becomes engaged in a confrontation with a police officer.

The issue at hand? That Choppa apparently didn’t let anyone know he would be at the mall ahead of time and caused a scene.

“They mad cause they had to do they job ain’t that crazy,” Choppa wrote.

While it’s unconfirmed whether NLE Choppa actually got arrested, it’s crazy the situation even boiled down to that since bro was just tryna get his baby some shoes. It’s not his fault some Gen-Z kids followed him threw the mall in hopes of getting a viral TikTok of the “S### Me Out” rapper as he shopped.

One could assume police would be much more popular with the young jits like NLE Choppa if they were collaborating with artists such as Sexxy Redd—or hilariously being left on read by Meagan “That’s my man and I’m gone stick beside him” Good for Johnathon Majors. But until then, I guess these things will, unfortunately, continue to happen. On the bright side, at least both NLE Choppa and Cenat have bail money!

Ne-Yo Backtracks On Apology Amid Parenting Transgender Kids Controversy

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Ne-Yo clarified his stance on parenting transgender kids on Monday (August 7). The singer spoke out after seemingly suggesting a publicist misrepresented his true feelings on the subject.

“This s### is getting out of hand,” he wrote on Instagram. “FROM THE HORSE’S MOUTH. I WILL NOT BE BULLIED INTO APOLOGIZING FOR HAVING AN OPINION. AGREEING TO DISAGREE IS NOT A DECLARATION OF WAR.”

Ne-Yo generated controversy after criticizing parents for encouraging kids who question their gender identity. An apology was issued on Sunday (August 6).

A day later, Ne-Yo posted a video to explain his actual thoughts on the matter. He wanted people to hear from him directly instead of hearing from “the publicist’s computer.”

The 43-year-old artist did not approve of allowing kids to reject the gender of their birth. Ne-Yo declared he “will never be OK with allowing a child to make a decision that detrimental to their life.” The singer said he going to educate himself on the subject but doubted anything will change his mind.

“If one of my 7 kids were to decide that he or she wanted to be something other than what they were born as, once they’re old enough and mature enough to make that decision…so be it,” he wrote. “Not gonna love em’ any less. Daddy is still Daddy and he loves you regardless. But this isn’t even a discussion until they are MENTALLY MATURE ENOUGH to have such a discussion.”

Check out everything Ne-Yo had to say below.

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Lil Wayne Records New Theme Song For Skip Bayless, Who Calls It “Instant Classic”

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Lil Wayne helped his pal Skip Bayless by recording another theme song for the sports commentator’s TV show Undisputed. Bayless boasted about the track while teasing the upcoming relaunch of Undisputed on Monday (August 7).

“Shot a video for the new theme song Lil Wayne wrote and recorded for the new Undisputed, launching August 28,” Bayless wrote. The song is called ‘Good Morning.’ Instant classic. Can’t wait for you to hear it.”

Lil Wayne previously created a track titled “No Mercy” for Undisputed, which airs on FS1. The song served as the sports debate show’s intro music from 2016 to 2023.

Bayless enlisted Lil Wayne to make a new theme song following the departure of co-host Shannon Sharpe. The former NFL tight end left the show in June. Sharpe had been with the show since its premiere in 2016.

According to the New York Post, Bayless found a new co-host in former NFL cornerback Richard Sherman. The Super Bowl champion will reportedly join Bayless for 50-100 shows per year.

Earlier this month, Bayless revealed Lil Wayne will regularly appear on the revamped version of Undisputed. The diamond-selling rapper is expected to be part of a segment every Friday but won’t be in the studio regularly due to his touring schedule.

Chrisean Rock Says “Psychopathic” Blueface Cannot Attend Birth Of Their Child

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Chrisean Rock does not want Blueface by her side for the birth of their baby. The reality TV star explained why when she aired out more of the former couple’s relationship drama on Sunday (August 6).

“I’m setting boundaries,” she said on Instagram Live. “No, no, you cannot be there when I’m pushing the baby out. Sorry. That s### is intentional. That s### is intense. I need love, real love. I don’t need a n#### ready to whip his camera out because his career is dying. I just need real love.”

Chrisean Rock insisted Blueface would be able to see their baby after the birth. But she sought to distance herself from her ex-boyfriend by declaring she needed “no child support.”

Later in the livestream, Chrisean Rock accused Blueface of threatening to kick her in the stomach when she was five or six months pregnant. She also claimed he emotionally abused her throughout their relationship.

“I’m in love with a psychopathic m###########,” she realized at one point. “This b####-ass n#### do no give a f### about me, my kid, how I look, how I feel. It’s all about him.”

Chrisean Rock said she felt her child “gave her so much strength” and helped her break free from Blueface. She believed her newfound independence made Blueface mad, which is why he keeps antagonizing her.

Listen to her diatribe below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTgdWx47JEg

DJ Paul Hit With Lawsuit Over Viral Video Of Truck Caught In Tornado

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Viral DRM, an agency specializing in digital rights management, sued DJ Paul for posting a video on Instagram. The company took legal action against the Three 6 Mafia founder over footage of a truck, which barely escaped disaster after it got caught in a tornado in Texas.

According to TMZ, Viral DRM claimed it owned the rights to the clip shared by DJ Paul. A man named Brian Emfinger filmed the video in March 2022.

Emfinger describes himself as a storm chaser and photojournalist on his YouTube channel. Last year, he uploaded the clip and mentioned Viral DRM as his contact for licensing the footage.

“Unbelievable video of a tornado and red truck,” he wrote in the YouTube video’s description. “The truck gets caught in the tornado, blown over on its side, spins around, and then the tornado blows it back right side up and amazingly somehow they drive away. Also includes Aerial video of the tornado that moved thru parts of Elgin, TX. The tornado did quite a bit of damage. Video via drone follows right behind the tornado as it does damage.”

DJ Paul posted the footage on his Instagram account in March 2022. Viral DRM accused him of sharing it without permission and sought damages for allegedly hindering the agency from making money off the video.

Watch the video at the center of the lawsuit below.

Iggy Azalea Asks Tory Lanez Judge For “Transformational, Not Life Destroying” Sentence

By: Kyle EusticeCategory: News

Iggy Azalea and Tory Lanez were once romantically linked last year, but neither of them really confirmed a relationship. Evidently the Aussie rapper is still emotionally invested enough to write a letter to the judge presiding over Lanez’s shooting case. Lanez sentencing hearing began on Monday (August 7) inside  a Los Angeles County courtroom, where Judge Herriford will announce his punishment for shooting Megan Thee Stallion in July 2020. Prosecutors are asking for 13 years, while Lanez’s defense team is looking for probation.

According to legal affairs reported Meghan Cuniff, Azalea believes he should be punished but not too harshly. As Cuniff tweeted, “That jailer didn’t talk in court, but the chaplain did. (I should be able to get the letters, but maybe not today.) Judge Herriford said Iggy Azalae’s letter asks him to impose a sentence ‘that is transformational, not life destroying.'”

Tory Lanez was found guilty of shooting Megan Thee Stallion in December 2022. He was promptly arrested and taken to L.A. County Jail. Earlier this month, his legal team issued a memo to the court pleading with the judge for a light sentence—instead of the 13 years prison time requested by prosecutors. In the lengthy memo, lawyers argue Lanez—real name Daystar Peterson—should be given treatment rather than a lengthy sentence due to his “childhood trauma” and substance abuse issues.

Prosecutors, meanwhile, think his lack of remorse should be a major factor. But, as Cuniff tweeted, “Judge Herriford said no to finding the crime was done with a high-level of callousness. How this will affect the sentence is not yet known. We’re going to get into that after lunch, after more speakers.”

This is a developing story. 

Biz Markie’s Ex-Manager Accused Of Holding Rapper’s Instagram Account “Hostage”

By: Kyle EusticeCategory: News

Biz Markie died in July 2021 following several health complications stemming from diabetes and an ensuing stroke. His widow, Tara Hall, has been managing his affairs in an attempt to preserve the Hip-Hop legend’s legacy. But evidently, there are some challenges that have sprung up making it harder for Hall to oversee his Instagram business accounts. According to a post from Hall, Biz Markie’s former manager is holding his Instagram account hostage. Subsequently, she’s asking his fans to circulate a hashtag that reads, “Save Biz Markies IG.”

“I am writing to bring your attention to a distressing situation regarding my late husband, Biz Markie’s Instagram account,” Hall explains in the caption. “It has come to my attention that his old manager is currently holding his account hostage and posting on it without our consent. Biz Markie’s Instagram was a special place where he connected with all of you, and I want to ensure that his legacy is respected and honored. Unfortunately, we are facing some challenges in regaining control of the account.

“I kindly request your support and solidarity during this time. If you have any fond memories, photos, or messages you’d like to share about Biz Markie, please feel free to do so and tag @just.a.friend.foundation to keep his memory alive. We are seeking assistance from the Instagram community and the wider hip-hop family to raise awareness about this situation. Together, we can ensure that Biz Markie’s digital presence remains a place of love, positivity, and remembrance.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tara Hall (@taradise_25)

Hall ended the post by encouraging Biz Markie’s fans to use the hashtag and thanking all of his supporters.

“Please help us spread the word by sharing this post and using the hashtag #SaveBizMarkiesIG,” she concluded. “Your support means the world to me and our family, and we are truly grateful for each and every one of you. Thank you for standing by us during this challenging time.”

Biz Markie’s widow has been vocal about her grief online as she plugs the late MC’s new documentary, All Up In The Biz, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival last month. All Up in the Biz was directed by Ego Trip co-founder Sacha Jenkins using animation, interviews, reenactments and more to tell Biz’s story. The film features Rakim, fellow Juice Crew member Big Daddy Kane, Fat Joe, Nick Cannon and Doug E. Fresh, among others. Curiously, a few of the key players in Biz’s life—including fellow Juice Crew alum Roxanne Shanté and longtime DJ/friend COOL V—were absent (and not for lack of interest).