Tyler, the Creator is pushing back against criticism over his “That Guy” freestyle on Kendrick Lamar’s “Hey Now” beat.
He addressed the controversy during his latest interview with Nardwuar, defending the move as a staple of Hip-Hop culture. He also called critics out of touch with the genre’s roots.
The Grammy-winning artist didn’t hold back when addressing criticism of the track, which dropped on December 25 as a surprise holiday release.
“I saw someone say, ‘How Tyler just gonna take Kendrick’s song right after it comes out and do the same flow over the same beat.’ And I’m like, ‘Damn, that’s somebody else who did not grow up listening to rap or Hip-Hop,'” Tyler explained. “‘Cause if you grew up listening to rap or Hip-Hop, you know that’s normal… You should have to do a survey and show your ID before you could say s### on the internet — ’cause folks be saying dumb s###.”
Tyler, the Creator dropped the freestyle, titled “THAT GUY,” on social media with the caption, “merry christmas. had fun with it,” after a fan had tweeted in November, “I want @tylerthecreator to freestyle on Hey Now so bad.”
Meanwhile, Tyler the Creator went viral earlier this week after Sexyy Red joined him to perform their collaboration “Sticky” during his CHROMAKOPIA Tour stop in Miami.
After the show, the two engaged in a barefoot foot race backstage, which was captured on video and quickly went viral.
They also recreated their infamous 2023 viral photo, posing with their backsides out and middle fingers up.
Dr. Dre suffered a loss in court on Thursday (March 27), when a judge decided not to toss out several texts in the $10 million civil harassment lawsuit filed against him by his former psychiatrist.
During the hearing, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Mark H. Epstein said he disagreed with Dr. Dre that the 11 text messages he sent to Charles Sophy in 2023 should be stricken from the lawsuit “because they were made in furtherance of either Dre’s constitutional right to free speech or his protected right to pursue litigation,” per Rolling Stone.
“It looks like a bunch of angry [messages] and I don’t see how they further the process of a medical board complaint,” Epstein said. “He’s just hurling insults.”
Dr. Dre claimed in his motion to dismiss that he had already planned to pursue legal action against Sophy when he sent the initial text messages. Young alleged that Sophy, who served as a family therapist and mediator during Young’s 2021 divorce from Nicole Young, had committed malpractice. Specifically, Young accused Sophy of attempting to damage his relationship with his son and encouraging the disclosure of financial records to the media to pressure Young into an unfair divorce settlement.
Young admitted to using strong language in his texts due to his deep upset over Sophy’s alleged unethical conduct. The messages included derogatory terms and warnings that Sophy would “have to pay” and that he had “f##### with the wrong one.” Sophy, however, denied any wrongdoing and interpreted the texts as threats of physical violence. He claimed the messages left him “terrified” and led him to wear a “bulletproof cap and vest” in public.
Epstein, reviewing the case, expressed skepticism towards Young’s argument that the texts were protected speech related to potential legal action. The judge indicated they didn’t appear to contribute to a legitimate medical board complaint.
Judge Epstein expressed skepticism about the first eight text messages sent by Dr. Dre to Sophy, stating they appeared to lack any substantive connection to a legal process. The judge noted that a text message from March 5, 2023, might partially qualify for protection. In this message, Young demanded a written apology and warned of further action.
Dre’s attorney Jackson Trugman argued that his client’s intent was to hold Sophy accountable for alleged misconduct and to seek an explanation and apology. Trugman framed these requests as objectives of the mogul’s planned legal actions. He explained that the initial messages were sent late at night during a moment of frustration, with Dre providing additional context the following morning.
Despite Trugman’s arguments, Epstein remained unconvinced, questioning where Dre had actually asked for an explanation in the messages, aside from the ninth text. The judge reiterated that he couldn’t see any indication that the messages were aimed at gathering information for a medical board complaint or lawsuit.
“Where does he seek an explanation, other than in text message nine?” Judge Epstein asked. “I don’t see anything that would suggest that all of this is in furtherance of getting information to go to the medical board or to file litigation … Was he mad? Sure he was mad. Did he use terms I wouldn’t necessarily use? Well, I don’t know, maybe I would use them. But it’s the lack of a linkage.”
He added, “For the plaintiff to say something to the defendant like, ‘You’re a p############,’ I’m not sure that’s furthers the public discourse. That, I think, is private communication.”
In a 10th text sent April 25, 2023, Dre again called Sophy a “p############” and said he wasn’t “going anywhere” until Sophy answered for his actions. In a final text sent August 4, 2023, Dre wrote, “Don’t worry, I haven’t forgot about you.”
Sophy’s lawyer, Christopher Frost, said he agreed with the judge’s tentative order.
“Just because [Young] happens to also file a medical board complaint doesn’t mean he gets to abuse my client,” Frost said. “All he’s doing is hurling abusive insults.”
Epstein declined to issue a final ruling, saying he was taking the matter under submission. If he adopts his tentative, all but a portion of the ninth text will stay in the lawsuit as the complaint continues toward a trial.
Dr. Dre and Nicole Young finalized their divorce in December 2021 after a contentious 18-month legal battle. The settlement resulted in his ex-wife receiving $100 million, paid in two $50 million installments, along with four vehicles and her jewelry.
Dre, whose net worth was estimated at $820 million, retained the majority of his assets, including seven properties, six vehicles, his master recordings and Apple stocks. The couple had been married for 24 years and have two adult children. She initially contested their 1996 prenuptial agreement and accused Dre of abuse, allegations he vehemently denied.
2 Live Crew frontman Uncle Luke is demanding recognition for what he says is his rightful place in Hip-Hop history.
In a fiery Instagram post, the lMiami bass pioneer and producer declared that he founded Southern Hip-Hop in 1985—but he’s frustrated that no one is talking about it.
“Yo, what up? This your boy, Uncle Luke,” Luke said in part. “The question of the day that I have for y’all—I started hip-hop in the South in 1985, right here in Miami. My question is, why ain’t nobody talking about it? 40 years, 40 years. This year is 40 years.”
Luke, whose real name is Luther Campbell, lamented that while Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary was widely celebrated in 2023, his contributions to the genre’s Southern expansion have largely been overlooked.
“You should be having celebrations all over the South, the creation of Southern Hip-Hop—40 years,” he insisted. “People in Miami, they should be talking about it. They’re not even talking about it.”
The 63-year-old rap mogul pointed to his breakout moment with 2 Live Crew’s 1985 hit “Throw the D” released under Luke Records, as the spark that ignited an entire movement.
“Don’t take my word—Google,” he urged. “Google works. 1985, first record, ‘Throw the D,’ 2 Live Crew, Luke Records, 40 years.”
While the debate over the true origins of Southern Hip-Hop continues, there’s no denying Uncle Luke’s commercial impact during the 1980s. With 2 Live Crew, he dominated the Miami bass sound, achieving multiple chart successes and breaking barriers for explicit rap music.
Their controversial 1989 album As Nasty As They Wanna Be became the first album in history to be ruled legally obscene, sparking a nationwide free speech battle. Despite the controversy, the album was certified double platinum by the RIAA and peaked at No. 29 on the Billboard 200.
Uncle Luke has been extremely vocal on social media throughout the past year, especially when it comes to his feelings about the current state of Hip-Hop. Last November, her ripped into the new generation of rappers while giving Drake a piece of his mind over his recent legal filings in a fiery live stream.
The legendary Miami rapper didn’t hold back in his critique of today’s rap scene while wagging a finger at Drake over the pair of legal complaints he filed against Universal Music Group and Spotify over Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” diss track. In addition to blasting the Canadian superstar Luke also took aim at the new generation of artists for what he calls their “soft” behavior.
Uncle Luke Calls Out the New Hip-Hop Generation—Says They Soft! Dragging Drake for Lawsuits pic.twitter.com/mJGHldj48w
Atlanta-bred rapper Young Scooter reportedly died on Friday (March 28), his 39th birthday.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitutionreports local officers were called to a home in the 200 block of William Nye Drive after shots were fired and a woman was observed being dragged inside, according to Atlanta police homicide commander Lt. Andrew Smith.
He said, “When officers arrived, they knocked on the door and a male opened the door and immediately shut the door on the officers.” That’s when Scooter and another man allegedly took off on foot and Scooter somehow got “injured” along the way and later died at Grady Hospital. Police deny there was any kind of shooting.
“He appeared to have suffered an injury to his leg,” Smith explained. “Officers rendered aid and he was transported to Grady Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. The Atlanta Police Department has not been involved in any shootings tonight and the incident on William Nye—no one was—there was not a shooting at all. Just to be very clear, the injury that was sustained was not via the officers on scene.”
Some outlets are erroneously citing a report from Fox 5 Atlanta about a man who was killed in a shooting near State Farm Arena, but the man is 42 years old and actually survived but is in critical condition. There are seemingly endless tweets mourning Scooter’s death. Playboi Carti, in particular, shared a photo of Scooter on on his Instagram Stories with the letters, “SMFH.”
Young Scooter’s Instagram Stories are littered with birthday wishes for him, with the last one being posted around 6:30 p.m. ET. The person it came from, Hasm Celestial, shared on his own Stories, “Bro you crushed me with this one.”
He followed up with, “That’s why they say love on your ppl every chance you get you never know when it’s over, you ain’t give a f### about the fame, our insider was that question, what you know about bro and you always say back to me, that’s my real brother right there. I just told you 4ever and every day after, never thought everyday after would be the same day.”
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has been called in to review the incident due to public speculation surrounding the case. Despite the initial 911 reports, police haven’t located the female victim and are still working to verify what occurred. Smith added, “We have not been able to substantiate any of that, which is also a part of our investigation.”
Young Scooter (real name Kenneth Edward Bailey) was born on March 28, 1986, in Walterboro, South Carolina. He grew up in the Kirkwood Community of Atlanta after his family moved there when he was nine years old.
Scooter’s career in music began in 2008, following a charge for drug trafficking, which prompted him to focus on rapping. He was closely associated with Future, who he’s known since childhood, and Gucci Mane. Young Scooter ran his own label, Black Migo Gang, and was affiliated with Freebandz and 1017 Brick Squad Records.
He rose to prominence in 2012 with the release of several successful mixtapes, including Street Lottery. He collaborated with a wide range of artists such as Waka Flocka Flame, Chief Keef and Lil Wayne, among others.
Sean Kingston was found guilty Friday in Fort Lauderdale federal court alongside his mother Janice Turner for orchestrating a $1 million fraud scheme involving luxury goods and fake wire transfers.
The jury returned a unanimous verdict after five days of testimony, convicting both on one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and four counts of wire fraud.
Prosecutors said the duo used phony bank documents to scam vendors out of high-end items, including a $160,000 Cadillac Escalade, $500,000 in jewelry and an $86,000 luxury bed.
Text messages presented in court showed Kingston instructing his mother to fabricate payment confirmations.
According to court records, the pair also defrauded banks out of more than $300,000.
The scheme unraveled in May 2024 when Kingston was arrested during a concert in California.
Turner was taken into custody the same week during a raid at Kingston’s rented mansion in Florida.
Turner, who previously served 16 months in federal prison for a 2005 bank fraud conviction, was immediately remanded into custody following the verdict.
Sean Kingston remains under house arrest.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 11. Each count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
Yella Beezy posted a hefty six-figure bond following his recent arrest for the 2020 murder of Mo3 and relinquished from police custody on Friday (March 28).
The Texas-bred rapper was released after he coughed up a $750,000 bond in his ongoing murder case, where he stands accused of orchestrating the 2020 killing of fellow artist Mo3. Yella Beezy, whose legal name is Markies Conway, was let go after his initial $2 million bond was slashed significantly. A key moment in the hearing came when Yella Beezy’s grandmother, Alma Alexander, testified on his behalf.
“Markies was my first grandchild…He’s been a godsend to a lot of his family members, he helps everybody,” she told the court. Alexander also appeared to withhold crucial details about his financial situation when questioned, which may or may not have played a role in the court’s decision to lower his bond.
As part of his release conditions, Yella Beezy must surrender his passport, wear an ankle monitor and remain under house arrest. The judge also issued a stern warning.
“You are to have no contact [with witnesses], direct or indirect,” the judge stated. “No threatening or harassment of any victim, witness, co-defendants. If it’s you or anybody on your behalf, it’s going to be a problem.” He was also reprimanded for not taking the financial disclosures seriously.
According to TMZ, Yella Beezy’s attorney, Toby Shook, said, “Yella feels relieved to be released,” but admitted he “can’t comment any further on his plans.”
Yella Beezy was arrested earlier this month on allegations that he knowingly and intentionally played a role in Mo3’s death on a Dallas highway. Prosecutors claim he hired Kewon Dontrell White to carry out the killing, presenting surveillance footage from a Kroger 18-wheeler truck showing a black sedan cutting off Mo3’s gold vehicle before White allegedly chased him down and fatally shot him in broad daylight. Investigators also highlighted a $40,000 cash withdrawal made by Yella Beezy shortly after the murder, which they argue matches the alleged payment for the hit. Additionally, a witness claimed to have overheard the rapper discussing payment for the killing.
Despite the claims, the defense maintains there is no direct evidence linking Yella Beezy to the murder. His legal team has challenged the credibility of the witness and emphasized his strong community ties. The judge, acknowledging the severity of the charge but also noting the lack of definitive proof, agreed to lower the bond.
Sauce Walka recently opened up about the tragic loss of his friend and collaborator Sayso P, explaining why he has chosen not to retaliate despite the pain of the situation.
During an emotional interview with Wikid Films, the Houston rapper reflected on the realities of street life and responsibilities that come with it. Without going into too much detail about the incident itself, Sauce Walka remarked on how occurrences such as these can transpire due to a range of implications.
“All these people are willing to do the extreme to take from you,” Sauce Walka said. “Extreme. That’s the point you also have to incorporate—these people are willing to do the extreme to take your belongings or to take your life.”
He added. “Sometimes people always think m############ coming at the next Black person or the next person in this world, a lifestyle, to take their belongings or to take their value. But sometimes this is about taking your life.”
Sauce Walka reveals he's not planning to retaliate against the shooters who killed his artist Sayso P, but makes it clear he could have 400 to 500 good men ready to retaliate at the snap of his fingers.
When the interviewer acknowledged Sauce Walka’s ability to influence others and praised how he was handling the situation, the rapper elaborated on his stance and mindset throughout the turmoil of the tragedy.
“If I wanted to I could have 500 different men—good men down here from different cities and states including mine—ready to do whatever by snapping my finger in retaliation to what happened to me and my little brother,” he admitted. “As much as it hurt my soul, really break me down, I can’t retaliate because that’s not righteous.”
Sauce Walka emphasized that, as painful as the loss is, he must acknowledge that Sayso P had his own dealings that led to the situation. He admits he has also recognized that he, too, could have been held accountable in the same way, potentially losing his life in the process.
“At the end of the day, I got to be a man and be an honorable gangster and respect the fact that I put myself in a place where I wasn’t supposed to be standing and sitting there,” he said. “But as a gangster and as a brother, I’m standing next to my brother no matter whatever this n#### got going on or whatever his personal beefs or problems is.”
He also spoke on the pressure of proving loyalty through violence, addressing the culture of revenge that fuels cycles of retaliation.
“Was taking my brother like really worth it? Is me trying to retaliate to prove a point to some n##### for some Instagram comments?” he questioned. “Like a n#### been doing this s### since a n#### was a teenager, bro, adolescent. Handling this business for the business, standing on the business, laying on the business, leaning on the business. At a certain point, when does this s### end?”
Beyond the immediate consequences of violence, Sauce Walka pointed out the lack of real support that follows once someone is incarcerated or killed in the streets.
“What is the f###### trophy for this s### besides a bunch of n##### saying, ‘Oh, you him, that n####, that n#### does that, that n#### real?’” he asked. “And not one of these n##### saying that you stepped is going to pay for no lawyers. They’re not going to take care of your kids. If they see your baby mama heartbroken and f##### up because you in jail or dead, they’re going to be the n#### trying to f### your baby mama and move in your house.”
Sauce Walka’s decision to rebuke retaliatory violence in the wake of Sayso P’s death immediately follows new developments in the investigation of the TSF rapper’s murder.
On March 26 Memphis Police announced that an arrest warrant has been issued for 21-year-old Jayden Dandridge in connection with the shooting incident near the Westin Hotel on Lt. George W. Lee Avenue. Officials are offering a $6,000 reward for information leading to his capture.
Plastic surgeries—18 and counting. Pretty privilege. Fights. The term “Bad B#tch.” Reality television’s newest sensation, “Bad B#tches Only,” could be just just another guilty pleasure or it could be an insane look into the lives of women who hustle hard.
These women boss up on their own type-time, boss up unapologetically and never shy away from controversy. AllHipHop‘s DJ Thoro sat down exclusively with Big Lex, Zen God and Nicole Zavala to discuss the allure of cosmetic enhancements, the harsh realities of fame and why being “bad” means to them.
Watch the whole interview or read a highly edited Q&A below.
AllHipHop: So for people who aren’t familiar, what can they expect from your show, “Bad B#tches Only”?
Big Lex: Drama, fun, fashion and definitely fights—it’s more like dog fights than cat fights sometimes.
Zen God: Yeah, it’s interesting drama. Not just physical fights but conversational drama too, mixing things up and keeping dialogue alive.
AllHipHop: How does someone become a “bad b*tch” according to you?
Zen God: Confidence is number one—no one can define you but you. A “bad b*tch” is bossy, independent, invests wisely and does whatever enhances her confidence, even surgery if that’s what she wants.
Big Lex: Exactly. Make money, don’t depend on a man, stand up for yourself and, most importantly, stay unbothered.
AllHipHop: Have you gotten backlash for using that term?
Zen God: Yes, because the term is everywhere, but we redefine it as strong, independent, balanced women.
AllHipHop: How did each of you get involved with this show?
Nicole: We’re all either veterans of reality TV or connected through friendships. I’ve been in reality TV six years, so it’s my career.
Zen God: Nicole and I are friends. The show just fits who we naturally are.
AllHipHop: What business ventures has the show helped you launch?
Nicole: I’m launching a line of body shapers and waist trainers, and I’m involved in real estate.
Zen God: I have my music, a clothing line about to drop and I just got into AirBnB rentals. I’m bartending and have my own hair line hairgoalsluxe.com, leveling up across the board.
AllHipHop: Tell us about your music.
Big Lex: I’m from Columbia, South Carolina. My music is empowering for women—it’s bold, unapologetic and doesn’t cater to men. I’ve got an EP called Carolina Princess and my label is Bad B*tch Music.
AllHipHop: So would you compare yourself to artists like Megan Thee Stallion?
Big Lex: No, it’s distinctly me, the Big Lex era. It’s diverse and meant to empower women. It might sound harsh to men, but I’m not talking to men.
AllHipHop: What adversities have you faced as women in entertainment?
Big Lex: Mainly battling perceptions, particularly from men. Not anti-men, but it’s challenging asserting yourself in this industry. We also face criticism about plastic surgery and being labeled as superficial.
Zen God: Those surgery comments can be tough.
Big Lex: But honestly, pretty privilege is real. Women should embrace whatever makes them feel their best.
AllHipHop: Nicole, you’ve had 18 surgeries—why so many?
Nicole: I started young after being bullied. Got boobs at 18, a nose job after my brother broke my nose, and then I kept going bigger and better. It becomes addictive, the fresh lipo feeling especially. I might get more if I feel like I need it.
Big Lex: Excessive surgeries might signal body dysmorphia.
AllHipHop: Do you guys exercise or maintain the surgeries?
Nicole: Honestly, no. I’d rather just get lipo again if needed.
Big Lex: I work out—I weigh almost 200 pounds but look good.
Zen God: My lifestyle is rough; bartending, drinking late and eating badly.
AllHipHop: Big Lex, talk about your music videos.
Big Lex: Check out “Number One Stunna” on YouTube. My latest single, “Rebound,” is about dismissing men who aren’t serious.
AllHipHop: Finally, anything you want to add?
Big Lex: Watch “Bad B#tches Only” on Now That’s TV. It’s wild, real and won’t disappoint—trust me, we turned New York upside down already.
Chris Brown has announced his Breezy Bowl XX Stadium World Tour, celebrating 20 years since his debut album.
The Breezy Bowl XX Stadium World Tour will celebrate the 20th anniversary of Brown’s self-titled 2005 debut.
The project launched him into R&B stardom with hits like “Run It!” and “Yo (Excuse Me Miss).”
The trek kicks off in Europe on June 8, 2025, before heading to North America on July 30 with a show in Miami.
“BREEZY BOWL 20th anniversary TOUR!!!!!!!!!! CELEBRATING 20 years of CB,” Brown wrote in an Instagram post announcing the tour. “So excited to be able to share this moment with the world and my amazing fans. I CANT WAIT TO SEE ALL YALLS BEAUTIFUL FACES. IMA TAKE YALL THREW THESE ERAS BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY GIVE YALL MY HEART AND SOUL.”
The tour will hit major stadiums and ballparks across the U.S., Canada, the UK, France, Germany and more.
R&B stars Summer Walker and Bryson Tiller will join Chris Brown on tour. Walker is slated to appear exclusively on the North American leg, while Tiller will be part of the entire global run.
Tickets for the tour go on sale to the general public on April 3, 2025.
Brown’s debut album, released November 29, 2005, debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and went triple platinum, selling over three million copies in the U.S. It earned him two Grammy nominations, including Best New Artist and Best Contemporary R&B Album.
Adding to the momentum, Brown dropped a new collaboration with Bow Wow titled “Use Me” on Friday (March 28).
Kim Kardashian stood firm behind daughter North West’s appearance in FKA Twigs’ new music video “Childlike Things” amid a wave of online backlash and a barrage of inflammatory accusations from ex-husband Kanye West.
The 11-year-old made a surprise cameo in the video, released Friday (March 27), rapping in English and Japanese.
North also penned her own verse for the track, which appears on Twigs’ latest album, Eusexua. The British singer said she intentionally chose North for the project because she wanted someone with a “strong point of view” like an 11-year-old.
While the collaboration drew applause from some corners of the internet, others criticized the decision, prompting Kardashian to respond by simply posting the video on Instagram with the caption, “Proud of my baby.”
FKA Twigs also praised North’s contribution, writing on Instagram, “lil angel thank you for your brilliance.”
Kayne West Slams Kim Kardashian Over North West’s FKA Twigs Collab
The backlash follows Kanye West’s public meltdown just days before the video’s release. In a series of disturbing social media posts on March 19 and 20, the rapper made a string of unsubstantiated and inflammatory claims about Kardashian and her family.
“Kim Kardashian is a sex trafficker,” West wrote. He went on to accuse the Kardashian family of being “sex workers” who “sex traffic all of the Black children they strategically produce.”
He added, “I AM 100 PERCENT CONVINCED THAT MY CHILDREN ARE IN A SEX TRAFFICKING RING.”
West also took aim at the video itself, saying, “I don’t like that Twigs has my daughter in her video dressing all grown,” and criticized the singer directly, writing, “WOULD HAVE EXPECTED MORE FROM TWIGS.”
The accusations surfaced amid an ongoing custody dispute between West and Kardashian, with particular tension around North’s involvement in public-facing creative projects.
Despite the controversy, Kardashian has not publicly addressed West’s comments and continued supporting her daughter’s artistic pursuits.
Megan Fox delivered a baby girl with MGK on Thursday (March 27) in Los Angeles, months after the couple reportedly ended their engagement following a turbulent holiday trip.
The 38-year-old actress and the 34-year-old rapper-turned-rocker have not yet shared their daughter’s name.
MGK announced the birth Thursday with a black-and-white Instagram video showing the newborn’s tiny hand. “She’s finally here!!” he wrote in the caption. Our little celestial seed.”
The birth came with a musical twist. According to MGK, he and Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker composed “the score of the birth.”
This marks Fox’s fourth child and her first daughter. She shares three sons with ex-husband Brian Austin Green.
The couple first revealed the pregnancy in November 2024 via a stylized Instagram post.
However, weeks later, reports surfaced that Fox and MGK had broken up during a Thanksgiving trip, allegedly sparked by an issue involving MGK’s phone.
At the time, an insider claimed the relationship had passed the breaking point.
“Megan seems to be done with MGK and everyone in her orbit is happy about it” the source alleged. “They feel like she finally came to her senses by shutting him out of her life.”
Despite the split, the two remained connected through the pregnancy. Fox, who previously opened up about a miscarriage in her 2023 poetry collection, had not publicly commented on the birth as of Friday.
Fox and MGK’s relationship began in March 2020 on the set of the thriller Midnight in the Switchgrass. By July of that year, Fox called MGK her “twin flame,” saying they were “two halves of the same soul.”
Their romance was marked by dramatic gestures, including drinking each other’s blood and a 2022 engagement featuring a custom ring designed to hurt if removed.
Hip-hop is a music genre that emerged in 1520 Sedgwick Avenue, The Bronx, in the early 70s, built around grooves, drum beats, percussive vocal delivery, and rapping. It has its stylistic origins in rhythm and blues, jazz, spoken word poetry performances, talking blues, and funk, with DJ Kool Herc credited as the father and creator of the genre. He was playing hard funk records, such as those of James Brown, and he isolated the instrumental parts of the record, placing emphasis on the drumbeat and switching from one break to another. He’d use two copies of the exact same record in order to elongate the break, with the funky drum solos serving as the cornerstone of hip-hop, with his announcements and encouragements for the dancers leading to what would become the rhythmically spoken accompaniment which evolved to become rapping.
But hip-hop is not just a music genre; it is also a subculture and art form that also includes breakdancing, beatboxing, literature, and highly stylized graffiti. Consciousness-raising, including political, social, and personal issues, has always been at the heart of hip-hop, with most of the lyrics being focused on these themes. Another narrative that is very popular in the world of hip-hop is that of money, and once money is involved, gambling comes into the picture as well. Although many might not be aware of it, a fascinating interchange between hip-hop and casino culture still exists.
Cash is a symbol of success, independence, and power, attributes that have made it a central theme in rap. Displays of wealth can sometimes be quite ostentatious, with financial success being emphasized, but it’s essential to have a comprehensive perspective. Hip-hop is not just about flaunting and flexing, and the discussions about money are actually about its potential to help achieve dreams, overcome adversity, and help in the pursuit of a better life. It would be careless to imply that the music urges fans to disregard responsible gambling practices or spend excessively and beyond their means.
It’s essential to do your research before using any casino. Remember to look into the reviews and the Stake analysis by gambling experts to obtain a comprehensive view of what each platform has to offer. Online casinos in Canada are perfectly legal, with some charities and even religious organizations having the possibility to get licensed for betting events as well, albeit only in brick-and-mortar environments. However, you should still pay attention as the marketplace is also full of scammers who might try to extract your funds. A subgenre known as scam rap was created in Detroit in the 2010s, with lyrics focused on fraudulent activities. It attracted plenty of criticism due to its subject matter since nobody likes scams.
To avoid having any of that happen to you and ensure that your funds are safe, make sure to check that each and every single platform you use has an adequate and valid casino license.
The Impact
The cultural impact of hip-hop and its relationship with money is incredibly complex. For instance, the displays of wealth in music can also be seen as ironic and a way to critique societal values. The lyrics and themes serve as commentary on wealth inequality, the emptiness that comes with the pursuit of nothing beyond the material, and the inherent risks that come with wanting to accumulate more money no matter what. Listeners are encouraged to question these societal norms and even their own values. Self-introspection is, more often than not, quite an uncomfortable endeavor, but that doesn’t make it any less necessary.
For gamblers, the impact can be either positive or negative. On the one hand, there’s a risk that hip-hop could glamorize unsafe practices and cause players to treat casino games in a flippant manner that leads to financial losses and addictive behaviors. On the other hand, it can also be viewed as shedding light on reckless habits, the harsh reality of destitution, and the importance of responsibility. If you want to make sure that your choices are consistently helpful for your financial and personal goals, you can visit GamblingInformation.com to access resources created by experts who can help you on your journey.
Hip-hop is often integrated in casino advertisements and displays in order to appeal to younger demographics, and many artists have become associated with gambling over the years. This collaboration has changed both industries, and got many doing research on what’s a casino bonus and what are the differences between a crypto casino and a standard one, so that they can join the ecosystem as well.
Reflections on gambling culture
Many hip-hop artists grew up in areas where gambling was common, and money was often an issue. As a result, it’s not at all surprising that games are popular and one of the favorite topics of the genre. Given their portrayal, it is also not at all surprising that fans want to give these establishments a try. Some, such as Stake, offer regular promotions and are crypto-based, making the entire process much more accessible. Reviews of Stake Casino also reveal that the platform offers premium services and that the interface is overwhelmingly user-friendly.
Gambling has been used as a metaphor for both success and survival in many hip-hop songs. Instead of being seen as downright promotion, the depiction of gambling in rap music should be regarded as a way to express lived experiences and ambitions. However, it’s also not an exaggeration to recognize that music does play a big part in the gambling ecosystem, setting the atmosphere and making up for the overall experience. Many musicians have also been provably interested in casinos and cryptocurrencies.
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Kenneth Petty has rejected a demand to hand over tax records in a civil case tied to his 1994 rape conviction.
Jennifer Hough filed suit in 2021, claiming Petty and Nicki Minaj tried to intimidate her into recanting her statements so Petty could get off a Sex Offender Registry list.
Petty served four years after pleading guilty to attempted rape. Hough says the couple’s harassment caused emotional distress and personal safety concerns.
Nicki Minaj was dismissed from the lawsuit in 2022. Hough is now seeking punitive damages from Kenneth Petty, the remaining defendant.
In a reply filed Thursday (March 27), Petty’s legal team contends that Hough’s discovery request was late and improperly aimed at Nicki Minaj’s personal and financial information.
“[Petty] has not earned any income in tax years 2022–2023,” attorney Steven Isser explained. The reply noted that Petty and Minaj had filed joint tax returns. Petty has not yet submitted a 2024 return.
“There is no basis for [Hough] to obtain [Nicki’s] tax returns. Plaintiff’s counsel has made no such showing,” the filing stated.
Petty’s team said Hough’s attorneys missed multiple discovery deadlines while trying to expand the case beyond its legal scope.
“[Hough] did not seek [Petty’s] tax returns or employment history until after the cut-off for discovery had passed,” Isser wrote.
The filing also attacked Hough’s theory that Petty worked in a paid role for Minaj as a manager, bodyguard, or nanny.
“Plaintiff’s unsupported speculation that [Petty] was Ms. Manaj’s manager entitled to 20% of her gross earnings and/or was a paid security guard for his wife is absurd and is not supported by [Petty’s} testimony at his deposition or any other evidence,” the document said.
Petty acknowledged receiving “allotments” from Minaj’s company but claimed those weren’t professional wages or subject to income reporting.
“I offered to provide [Hough] with a certified list of such payments (an Affidavit), in lieu of production of the joint tax returns,” Isser stated.
Isser blasted Hough’s lawyer, Tyrone Blackburn, who he claimed was once again chasing headlines as opposed to seriously trying to carry out legal discovery.
“[Hough’s] motion papers also are littered with inaccurate statements, in an attempt to garner media attention and to attempt to embarrass [Petty] and his wife,” the reply stated.
Eugene “Big U” Henley Jr. was hit with a sweeping 43-count federal indictment in Los Angeles, accusing him of leading a violent criminal network that prosecutors say operated like a mafia-style syndicate for over a decade.
Henley, a former gang leader turned self-described anti-violence advocate, is facing serious federal charges, including racketeering, murder, wire fraud and extortion, according to documents unsealed Thursday (March 27).
Prosecutors allege Henley used his influence within the Rollin’ 60s street gang and his public image as a community activist to run what they call the “Big U Enterprise,” a criminal organization that allegedly trafficked in violence, intimidation and fraud from 2010 through early 2025.
“The allegations in the complaint unsealed today reveal a criminal enterprise that engaged in murder, extortion, human trafficking, and fraud — all led by a supposed anti-gang activist and purported music entrepreneur who was nothing more than a violent street criminal,” U.S. Attorney Joseph McNally said, according to ABC News 7.
The indictment also accuses Henley of orchestrating the killing of an aspiring rapper, identified only as R.W., in January 2021.
Prosecutors claim the murder was part of a broader pattern of violence used to maintain control and silence rivals.
Federal authorities say Henley defrauded high-profile entertainers and athletes, siphoned millions from charitable donations intended for community programs, and even pocketed COVID-19 relief funds.
Among the most serious financial allegations is that Henley embezzled money from his own nonprofit, Developing Options, and misused funds allocated by the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office.
According to the affidavit, Henley’s organization “utilized Henley’s stature and long-standing association with the Rollin’ 60s and other street gangs to intimidate businesses and individuals in Los Angeles.”
The document describes him as a key figure in the Rollin’ 60s who “rose to prominence” in the gang during the 1980s.
Henley, who has been in federal custody since March 19, is scheduled to be arraigned on April 8. Six other individuals were also named in the indictment.
Big U Denies Allegations
Before surrendering to authorities, Henley addressed the charges in an Instagram video, denying any wrongdoing.
“I ain’t been nothing but a help to our community,” he asserted. “This the price of being Black and trying to help somebody, trying to help your community and do what you can. You just guilty because somebody else don’t like you.”
Lil Durk released his new album Deep Thoughts from behind bars Friday (March 28) while awaiting trial on federal murder-for-hire charges.
The 17-track project includes collaborations with Future, Lil Baby, Jhené Aiko and Hunxho.
“I WASN’T GON PUT THIS OUT BUT THEN I REMEMBERED THE STREETS NEED THIS,” Durk wrote in all caps on social media. “NOT BEING OUTSIDE WITH Y’ALL WHEN I DROP IS HARD, BUT I KNOW I WILL FEEL Y’ALL LOVE AND ENERGY THROUGH THESE WALLS.”
He added, “THANK Y’ALL FOR ROCKING WITH ME THROUGH EVERYTHING. I TELL THESE STORIES SO OUR VOICE IS NEVER LOST. I’M COMING HOME SOON STRONGER THAN EVER. INSHALLAH, THE VOICE. LOVE, DURK.”
I WASN’T GON PUT THIS OUT BUT THEN I REMEMBERED THE STREETS NEED THIS. NOT BEING OUTSIDE WITH Y’ALL WHEN I DROP IS HARD, BUT I KNOW I WILL FEEL Y’ALL LOVE AND ENERGY THROUGH THESE WALLS
THANK Y’ALL FOR ROCKING WITH ME THROUGH EVERYTHING. I TELL THESE STORIES SO OUR VOICE IS… pic.twitter.com/wANrqIR0xe
The album features a star-studded cast with appearances from Future, Lil Baby, Jhené Aiko and Hunxho. Stream it below and check out Lil Durk’s Deep Thoughts mini-documentary at the end of the page.
Lil Durk – Deep Thoughts
The project arrives as Lil Durk faces serious legal issues. Prosecutors accuse the rapper of arranging a hit on rapper Quando Rondo in August 2022.
The attempt missed Rondo but killed his cousin, Saviay’a Robinson. Prosecutors have also linked Durk to a separate murder in Chicago, though no charges have been filed in that case.
Initially scheduled for January 7, his trial was delayed until October 2025. If convicted, he could face life in federal prison.
Despite his legal troubles, Durk continues to dominate Hip-Hop charts, earning 53 new RIAA certifications in 2025 — more than any other artist in the genre this year.
With 53 new RIAA certifications, @lildurk has cemented himself with the most Hip-Hop certifications in 2025 and secured a place among the top 50 artists of all time with 52.5 million units. @AlamoRecordspic.twitter.com/daUMvwOr27
A mini-documentary released alongside Deep Thoughts offers a closer look at the album’s creation and Durk’s mindset.
“It’s gonna be more than just is a song good or great?” he says in the opening scene. “You gotta be like, ‘Boy, the album is nominated for a Grammy.’ We gotta start thinking in that box and get out the little box of thinking. This s### deeper than that. This s### really Deep Thoughts.”
Will Smith has revealed that JAY-Z and Kendrick Lamar gave him the same brutally honest advice for his new album.
Earlier this month, Smith announced his plans to release his forthcoming album, Based On A True Story, which is his first in 20 years, on Friday (March 28).
In a recent interview with “Sway In The Morning” on SiriusXM, the Hollywood actor and rapper revealed that before diving into his latest musical endeavor, he reached out to two rap legends, JAY-Z and Kendrick Lamar, for advice. Surprisingly, both of them had nearly identical words of wisdom.
“Before I started, I made two phone calls,” Smith shared. “I talked to Jay and I talked to Kendrick. And I was like, ‘Hey, I want to get back in music.’ And it was like, ‘What’s the advice?’”
Will Smith shares the advice he received from Jay-Z and Kendrick before making his new album “Based on a True Story”
JAY-Z’s message was clear: authenticity above all else.
“He said, ‘Don’t fake your story,’” he recalled. “‘You gotta say what’s true for you. He said, you’ll be looking at the younger rappers, and you want that to be true for you, but you don’t live like that. Be true to your story. Tell your story.’”
JAY-Z’s advice stuck with Smith so much that it became the foundation of his upcoming project.
“That’s where I got the Based OnA True Story from Jay,” he explained.
Kendrick Lamar’s advice, while different in wording, carried the same essential message
“He paused, he said, ‘Man, just say that s### you always been f###### scared to say,’” Smith revealed.
The weight of their words wasn’t lost on him. He admitted, “It was scary, right? To just, like, say it.”
But he took it as a challenge. Instead of chasing trends or crafting songs for approval, he’s now focused on making music that feels real to him.
“That’s the thing with genre—make the record you want to make,” he said. “Don’t try to make the record that you think people will like you for. Make the one that’s authentic.”
Smith’s album is set to feature 14-tracks and guest verses from artists such as his own son Jaden, Big Sean, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Teyana Taylor and more.
A federal judge ruled that he breached a signed performance agreement when he ghosted the October 2018 show—and then performed at a competing event the same night.
The U.S. District Court in D.C. ordered the rapper to pay compensatory damages to Hits Before Fame LLC and After Hours LLC after failing to show up for a sold-out October 28, 2018, concert at Echostage planned around Howard University’s homecoming.
According to the complaint, 6ix9ine accepted nearly $60,000 in performance fees but ghosted promoters and vanished—only to pop up hours later performing at Powerhouse NJ at the Prudential Center in Newark.
The court ruled that 6ix9ine violated the terms of his contract after months of rescheduling, renegotiating, and receiving wire transfers and cash—most of it funneled through his former manager, Kifano “Shotti” Jordan, who was later imprisoned for unrelated charges.
Documents show 6ix9ine’s team stopped communicating with the promoters just as ticket sales surged past $165,000, VIP tables sold out, and more than 3,000 fans waited outside in cold rain.
One of his own agents even threatened to cancel the event weeks before, but days later, 6ix9ine recorded a video hyping the rescheduled gig as a “make-up date for the Howard homecoming”—a clip that was never shared publicly.
When the rapper no-showed, Echostage canceled the concert a half an hour before doors opened to avoid a potential riot.
Promoters were left scrambling to refund all ticket and VIP sales while being bombarded with threats and trolling across social media.
The judge rejected the promoters’ additional claims for defamation and unjust enrichment, citing insufficient evidence or conflicting logic, including 6ix9ine’s own Instagram rant where he said “the people did not pay me” and that “the money never came to me.”
The court concluded the statements were vague and likely targeted his Shotti—not the plaintiffs. Ultimately, the court granted judgment only on breach of contract, awarding $250,000 in damages.
Yella Beezy had his $2 million bond slashed to $750,000 during a tense court hearing in Dallas where the rapper, accused in a murder-for-hire case tied to fellow artist Mo3, was warned sternly by the judge about his conduct.
Prosecutors presented surveillance footage from a Kroger 18-wheeler truck showing a black sedan cutting off Mo3’s gold vehicle. The video captured the suspected gunman, Kewon Dontrell White, chasing Mo3 on foot before fatally shooting him in broad daylight.
A witness claimed to have overheard Conway discussing payment for the hit and prosecutors pointed to a $40,000 cash withdrawal made by Yella Beezy shortly after the killing, which they say matches the alleged payout.
“The fact that this individual has the means and the resources and the reach to get to witnesses is a true concern the court should also take into consideration,” prosecutors told the court.
Defense attorneys pushed back, arguing there’s no direct evidence linking Yella Beezy to the murder. They also challenged the witness’s credibility and emphasized Yella Beezy’s community ties.
His grandmother, Alma Alexander, testified on his behalf.
“Markies was my first grandchild… He’s been a godsend to a lot of his family members. He helps everybody,” she said.
The judge ultimately lowered the bond, citing the seriousness of the charge but also the lack of definitive proof tying Conway to the crime.
“You are to have no contact [with witnesses], direct or indirect. No threatening or harassment of any victim, witness, co-defendants. If it’s you or anybody on your behalf, it’s going to be a problem,” the judge warned.
Yella Beezy was also reprimanded for not taking the case seriously, particularly regarding his financial disclosures.
If released, Yella Beezy must surrender his passport, wear an ankle monitor and remain under house arrest.
YG has released an extended snippet of his new song, which includes several explosive allegations as well as an earnest nod to his deceased collaborator Nipsey Hussle and another rap heavyweight.
On Thursday (March 27), The Breakfast Club premiered part of YG’s single “2004,” which will officially drop on Friday (March 28) after being leaked during his appearance on N3on’s Twitch stream earlier this month.
In addition to confronting the trauma he sustained from his childhood sexual assault, the 4Hunnid mastermind makes a deeply personal reflection about the loss of collaborator Nipsey Hussle while referencing Biggie Smalls and JAY-Z. In the opening bars of the track, YG raps about the assault and how the scandalous encounter forever changed his outlook.
“When I was young, I got raped by a b#### twice my age,” YG raps. “Picked me up from school, took me to hers and got laid. Ever since that day, I never looked a s### the same. Been f##### up in the brain.”
YG briefly explains how his already altered perception of life has been further skewed by the frequent loss of life, including the fatal 2019 shooting of Nipsey Hussle. While paying homage to his friend and fellow L.A. native, YG also mentioned JAY-Z and Biggie.
“How I’m supposed to change with all the f##### up s### that done seen,” he raps in part. “Nipsey left me like how Biggie left Hov.”
Elsewhere on the introspective track, YG delves deeper into the details of the sexual abuse he faced, revealing it was perpetrated by an individual who had custodial ties to a mutual connection.
“The b#### took advantage of me I ain’t have no choice,” he raps. “At 14 years old, I got my s### sucked/At 14 years old, I got my s### f#####/The hoe was 30 years old, and I never told/Was dating her niece when it happened.”
According to host Loren Lorosa, YG has never previously addressed the alleged sexual encounter nor discussed it with his immediate family members, including his mother, who will hear the allegations for the first time when the song is released.
N3on accidentally played the first bar of “2004” while streaming with YG at a restaurant. Though YG wasn’t present at the time he played the clip, N3on was visibly disturbed by the song and quickly attempted to delete the stream and wipe any evidence of the leak from the internet, although he was unsuccessful in his efforts. The viral clip and subsequent single release follow YG’s recent promotional run for “The Gentleman’s Club.”
Check out the moment which led to the rollout out of the tense song in the post below.
N3on had to hit that end stream button real quick after playing an unreleased YG song with a wild opening line. Stream got deleted on the spot.
We don’t know what the bar said… but if YG made bro panic like that—it must’ve been CRAZY. The streets need that leak now more than… pic.twitter.com/bWAsW6dGLf
Will Smith returned home to West Philadelphia this week to see a street next to his old high school officially renamed “Will Smith Way.”
The tribute Wednesday (March 26) brought out city leaders, longtime friends and even his favorite childhood teacher.
The newly named street, formerly the 2000 block of North 59th Street, sits just steps away from Overbrook High School, the Philly native’s alma mater, where his iconic nickname was born.
During the dedication ceremony, Smith shouted out Brenda Brown, his tenth-grade teacher. Brown first dubbed him “Prince Charming,” a moniker he famously adapted into “The Fresh Prince.”
“The name `The Fresh Prince’ was coined in that building,” Smith said, gesturing toward Overbrook High. “I added the ‘fresh’ because it was Hip-Hop slang.”
Mayor Cherelle Parker and other Philadelphia officials joined Smith for the festivities, which included dedicating a basketball court in his honor and presenting him with a ceremonial key to the city.
Smith shared highlights of the event on Instagram, captioning his post, “Philly, I am yours. This is the honor of a lifetime.”
Smith has consistently celebrated his Philadelphia upbringing throughout his career, notably in the catchy opening theme song of his breakout sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
The show aired in the 1990s, earning Smith global fame and two Golden Globe nominations.
Following his television success, Smith smoothly transitioned to the big screen, appearing in films like the action-comedy hit Bad Boys (1995).
He quickly became a box-office powerhouse, headlining blockbuster movies such as Independence Day (1996), Men in Black (1997) and I Am Legend (2007).
Smith’s acting prowess earned him two Academy Award nominations before finally clinching the Oscar for Best Actor in 2022 for his role in King Richard.
Beyond acting, Smith has enjoyed a successful music career, releasing the chart-topping album Big Willie Style in 1997, featuring hits like “Gettin’ Jiggy wit It” and “Men in Black.”
He also expanded into producing, backing successful projects such as the films Hitch and The Pursuit of Happyness and popular TV series Bel-Air andCobra Kai.
Meanwhile, Smith is gearing up to drop his new album Based on a True Story. The album is set for released on Friday (March 2. It will mark his first full-length album in 20 years since Lost and Found in 2005