Former Fugees member Pras Michel Convicted in International Scandal

MiamiFilmFestival, via Wikimedia Commons

Grammy-winning rapper Pras Michel, a former member of the hip-hop supergroup Fugees, has been
convicted of 10 criminal counts related to an international conspiracy that reached the highest levels of the US government.

A jury convicted Grammy Award-winning rapper Pras Michel of The Fugees on criminal charges that he conspired with a Malaysian financier to orchestrate a series of foreign lobbying campaigns aimed at influencing the U.S. government under two presidents.
https://t.co/40svRQ9WKT

— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) April 26, 2023

Michel was found guilty of charges that included conspiracy to defraud the US, witness tampering, and acting as an unregistered agent of a foreign government.

Prosecutors accused Michel of participating in a conspiracy to help Malaysian businessman Jho Low and the Chinese government gain access to US officials, including former Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump. They alleged that Michel funneled over $800,000 of Low's money to Obama's campaign through straw donors in 2012 in exchange for a photo of himself with Obama.

Here is the Vlad interview that allegedly got Pras Under Investigation pic.twitter.com/XMLowLzR4i

— O.T.G (@365OTG) April 24, 2023

While Michel testified that he never used the money at Low's direction, in 2017, prosecutors claimed that Low again turned to Michel when investigations into Low's alleged role in embezzling billions of dollars from the Malaysian sovereign wealth fund began to ramp up. They alleged that Low directed over $100 million to Michel to help push the US government, including Trump, to drop its investigation into Low.

Prosecutors also accused Michel of advocating for the extradition of a Chinese dissident, Guo Wengui, on behalf of the Chinese government. Michel denied the allegations, claiming that he only tried to help Low find an attorney in the US and told authorities about Guo because he thought he was a criminal. He also claimed that the $100 million was for a media business he was starting and wasn't from Low.

Michel could face up to 20 years in prison, although no sentencing date has been set. During the trial, he sat stoically as each count came down on Wednesday and declined to comment to reporters outside the courthouse. His attorney, David Kenner, expressed disappointment about the verdicts but remained confident that their mistrial motions would work out in their favor.

"If we do move to a sentencing hearing, I remain very confident we will certainly appeal this case," Kenner said. "This is not over."

LL Cool J Announces First Arena Tour in 30 Years With All-Star Lineup

Call it a comeback: LL Cool J is headlining his first arena tour in 30 years, and he's bringing some of hip-hop's biggest and brightest stars with him.

The tour backed by Live Nation and dubbed The F.O.R.C.E Live (Frequencies of Real Creative Energy) will boast a rotating cast of some of hip-hop's most historic figures and groups.

Salt-N-Pepa, Queen Latifah, Rakim, Common, Method Man & Redman, Big Boi, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Ice T, Juvenile, Doug E. Fresh, Slick Rick, De La Soul, Goodie Mob, Jadakiss and Rick Ross, are just some of the acts expected to take the stage where they will be backed by iconic hip-hop group The Roots and legendary DJs Z-Trip and Jazzy Jeff.

The tour kicks off on June 25 at TD Garden in Boston, MA and will roll through arenas across the continent before closing out on September 3 in Los Angeles, CA at Kia Forum.

This is not a moment, it’s a movement. For my first Arena tour in 30 years, I am bringing you THE F.O.R.C.E. (Frequencies of Real Creative Energy.) @theroots, @ztrip & @djjazzyjeff215 will join me in the ultimate Hip-Hop mash-up with a legendary non-stop continuous set! We hit… pic.twitter.com/j6OalpogG3

— LLCOOLJ (@llcoolj) April 25, 2023

Fans can purchase tickets through the Live Nation presale, Ticketmaster presale, or local venue and radio presales on Thursday. General sales begin Friday. Click here for more information or to purchase tickets.

The F.O.R.C.E Live tour dates are as follows:
6/25 - Boston, MA - TD Garden
6/27 - Brooklyn, NY - Barclays Center
6/28 - Newark, NJ - Prudential Center
6/29 - Toronto, ON - Scotiabank Arena
7/1 - Baltimore, MD - CFG Bank Arena
7/2 - Washington, DC - Capital One Arena
7/4 - Atlanta, GA - State Farm Arena
7/6 - Hollywood, FL - Hard Rock Live
7/8 - Raleigh, NC - PNC Arena
7/9 - Charlotte, NC - Spectrum Center
8/12 - Cleveland, OH - Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse
8/13 - Chicago, IL - United Center
8/18 - Detroit, MI - Little Caesars Arena
8/19 - St. Louis, MO - Enterprise Center
8/20 - Indianapolis, IN - Gainbridge Fieldhouse
8/22 - Memphis, TN - FedEx Forum
8/23 - New Orleans, LA - Smoothie King Center
8/24 - Ft. Worth, TX - Dickies Arena
8/25 - Houston, TX - Toyota Center
8/27 - Albuquerque, NM - Sandia Casino Amphitheater
8/29 - Denver, CO - Ball Arena
9/1 - San Francisco, CA - Chase Center
9/2 - Las Vegas, NV - MGM Grand Garden Arena
9/3 - Los Angeles, CA - Kia Forum

Activist and Music Legend Harry Belafonte Passes Away at Age 96

Manfred Werner-Tsui, via Wikimedia Commons

Harry Belafonte, the iconic performer and civil rights activist, died on Tuesday at his New York home at the age of 96 due to congestive heart failure, according to his publicist Ken Sunshine. Belafonte's wife, Pamela, was reportedly with him at the time of his passing.

Belafonte was one of the first Black performers to achieve mainstream success in the entertainment industry, with chart-toppers such as "Banana Boat Song (Day-O)" that sold millions of records. However, his impact went beyond music. In the 1960s, he emerged as a leading activist and humanitarian, forging a unique bond between Hollywood, Washington and the civil rights movement.

Harry Belafonte passed away. I remember 'Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)' being stuck in my head for the longest time when I was a kid. RIP Legend! pic.twitter.com/p8EQDc34AG

— Sha Hartley (@shahartley) April 25, 2023

Belafonte's commitment to social justice saw him go beyond participating in protests and benefit concerts. He organized and raised funds for them, working closely with his friend and peer, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. His activism continued throughout his life, and he appeared in Spike Lee's 2018 film "BlacKkKlansman," portraying an elder statesman schooling young activists about the country's past.

When I was a child, #HarryBelafonte showed up for my family in very compassionate ways.

In fact, he paid for the babysitter for me and my siblings.

Here he is mourning with my mother at the funeral service for my father at Morehouse College.

I won’t forget…Rest well, sir. pic.twitter.com/31OC1Ajc0V

— Be A King (@BerniceKing) April 25, 2023

Belafonte was also a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, winning a Tony Award in 1954 and becoming the first Black performer to receive an Emmy five years later. He co-starred in the all-Black cast of "Carmen Jones" and starred in the banned-in-the-South film "Island in the Sun." Belafonte's album "Calypso" became the first million-selling album by a solo performer, sparking a national fascination with Caribbean rhythms. Though nicknamed "the King of Calypso," he shunned the title.

Archival Video: Harry Belafonte sits with Senator John F. Kennedy and endorses him for President in 1960.pic.twitter.com/Y3C92FnTq0

— Keith Boykin (@keithboykin) April 25, 2023

Belafonte was a force in politics as well. John F. Kennedy sought his support during the 1960 presidential campaign, and Belafonte later became an advocate for Kennedy's civil rights agenda. He challenged segregationists, liberals, and even President Barack Obama, who he famously recollected had asked him and fellow activist Cornel West to "cut him some slack" during the first Black president's first term. Belafonte replied, “What makes you think we haven’t?”

Beyond the entertainment industry and politics, Belafonte set high standards for younger Black celebrities, mentoring Usher, Common, Danny Glover, and many others. He also scolded Jay Z and Beyonce for failing to meet their "social responsibilities."

Otis Redding III, Musician and Son of Iconic Singer, Passes Away at 59

Photo Courtesy The Otis Redding Foundation  

Otis Redding III, the musician who shared a name with his iconic 1960s soul singer father, died of cancer on Tuesday. He was 59.

The youngest child of soul legend Otis Redding, Redding III's death was announced in a statement shared Wednesday by his sister, Karla Redding-Andrews, via The Otis Redding Foundation's Facebook page.

"It is with heavy hearts that the family of Otis Redding III confirms that he lost his battle with cancer last evening at Atrium Health Navicent in Macon, GA," Redding-Andrews wrote. "Otis was 59 years old. Please keep our family in your prayers at this time, and please respect our privacy as we consume this huge loss. Arrangements will be announced at a later date."

Otis Redding III covering his father’s hit “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay”… RIP pic.twitter.com/D9EOZ1FrXg

— Marvin L James II (@sportsguymarv) April 22, 2023

Redding III's father, nicknamed "The King of Soul," died at the age of 26 in a plane crash on December 10, 1967, when Redding III was just three years old. He and his three siblings, including brother and future bandmate Dexter, were raised by their mother Zelma on the 300-acre Big O Ranch where their dad was buried.

In the 1980s, Redding III formed the funk band The Reddings with Dexter and their cousin Mark Lockett. The trio released six albums together, with their biggest hit being "Remote Control."

The Reddings had a strong debut as the beginning 1980 ringed in. A lotta so called historians and DJ's criminally overlook this song. It was in heavy rotation. Rest In Harmony Otis Redding III https://t.co/xTPSGExWDk

— A-Ski (@MrUnique74) April 19, 2023

Though The Reddings released their final album in 1988, Redding III continued to play music, performing his father's music at weddings and private parties. He also made a high-profile appearance at Carnegie Hall in 2018 for an Otis Redding tribute concert.

Redding III gave back to his community in Georgia, working with The Otis Redding Foundation to offer musical education to young people and serving as the board president for his local chapter of Meals on Wheels.

"Who can live up to Otis Redding? I mean, I had his name, I got a little bit of talent, but you know, nobody can really live up to the King of Soul," Redding III told The Telegraph in 2017. "We do his songs, my brother Dexter does a great job. We do our thing. But we know that we respect the game — he's the King of Soul."

Redding III noted in the same interview that he believed his father's legacy was "timeless," and hoped that younger artists would be inspired by all that he accomplished in his short life.

Berklee College of Music to Honor R&B Star Usher and Music Icon Roberta Flack with Honorary Doctorates

Photo Credit: Bellamy Brewster

Usher, the global music superstar who has sold more than 80 million records worldwide and won eight Grammy Awards, will be honored with an honorary Doctor of Music degree at Berklee College of Music's 2023 commencement ceremony.

Joining Usher in receiving honorary degrees will be R&B icon Roberta Flack and Gambian composer Sona Jobarteh. Flack is a legendary singer-songwriter known for hits like "Killing Me Softly With His Song" and "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," while Jobarteh is a highly regarded kora player and vocalist who has been credited with revitalizing the centuries-old tradition of griot music in Gambia.

According to a release announcing the news, the three honorees will be celebrated and recognized for their invaluable contributions to the worlds of music and philanthropy.

They will be joining an elite club of past recipients of honorary degrees from the college, which includes legendary musicians such as Duke Ellington, Aretha Franklin, Quincy Jones, Celine Dion, B.B. King, Joni Mitchell, Chaka Khan, Missy Elliott, Ringo Starr, Gloria Estefan and John Legend.

The commencement festivities will feature over 200 graduating students from Berklee's vocal, instrumental, dance, arranging, and production programs, who will pay tribute to each of the honorees with a concert that showcases musical tributes to the work of each artist.

Megan Thee Stallion Shares Healing Journey After Being Shot by Tory Lanez in Elle Essay

Photography © Adrienne Raquel for ELLE Magazine

Megan Thee Stallion has opened up about her journey of healing after being shot by fellow rapper Tory Lanez in July 2020.

In an essay published Tuesday in Elle magazine, the three-time Grammy Award winner referred to herself as a survivor and reflected on the public humiliation she faced from Lanez.

“I don’t want to call myself a victim. As I reflect on the past three years, I view myself as a survivor because I have truly survived the unimaginable,” she wrote. “Not only did I survive being shot by someone I trusted and considered a close friend, but I overcame the public humiliation of having my name and reputation dragged through the mud by that individual for the entire world to see.”

Megan added that the physical and mental scars from the ordeal will always sting, but she is taking the appropriate steps to resume her life. She spent the last few months off social media and "taking time off for myself, spending time with my dogs, hanging out with my manager, Farris, and doing a lot of praying."

“I’m in a happier place, but I still have anxiety. Talking about being shot still makes me emotional,” she said. “I’ve started journaling as a way to better process my thoughts, hopes, and fears. Prayer has also played a therapeutic role in my healing because I can have honest and unfiltered conversations with God without any judgment.”

The rapper accused Lanez of shooting her after she exited a vehicle they had been riding in following an argument in the summer of 2020. He was charged with three counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm, carrying a loaded and unregistered firearm in a vehicle, and discharge of a firearm with gross negligence, according to prosecutors.

In December, Megan testified during his trial, and a Los Angeles jury ultimately found Lanez guilty, convicting him on all three counts.

The guilty verdict was more than just vindication for her, she wrote – "it was a victory for every woman who has ever been shamed, dismissed, and blamed for a violent crime committed against them."

“My heart hurts for all the women around the world who are suffering in silence, especially if you’re a Black woman who doesn’t appear as if she needs help," she added.

In late March, Lanez filed a motion in Los Angeles County Superior Court requesting a new trial, but prosecutors opposed that motion. Lanez’s attorneys have also suggested that he may appeal the verdict if a new trial is not granted.

If he is given the maximum sentence on each charge, served consecutively, Lanez could face up to 22 years and eight months in prison, in addition to the possibility of being deported to his native Canada after serving his time.

Megan concluded by sharing a message for women who have faced similar situations, saying, "For anyone who has survived violence, please know your feelings are valid. You matter. You are not at fault. You are important. You are loved. You are not defined by your trauma. You can continue to write beautiful, new chapters to your life story. Just because you are in a bad situation doesn’t mean you are a bad person. Our value doesn’t come from the opinions of other people. As long as you stand your ground and live in your truth, nobody can take your power.”

Black Music Honors to Pay Homage to Missy Elliot, SWV

Photos courtesy Central City Productions

Hip-hop icon Missy Elliott and the women of one of the best-selling R&B groups of the '90s, SWV, will be among the honorees at this year's Black Music Honors.

The annual event, dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of urban music, will launch its producer, Central City Productions, Stellar Network television channel with its eighth edition, and there will be plenty of star power to shed light on the endeavor.

In addition to Elliott, who has won five Grammy Awards and sold over 30 million records, and SWV, short for Sisters With Voices and consisting of Cheryl "Coko" Gamble, Tamara "Taj" Johnson-George, and Leanne "Lelee" Lyons, the event will also pay homage to disco superstar vocalist, songwriter, record producer, and all-around performer Evelyn "Champagne" King, widely-respected R&B crooner Jeffrey Osborne, and legendary gospel trailblazers The Hawkins Family.

Founder and Executive Producer Don Jackson expressed his excitement for the honorees in a statement, saying, "Black music is the heartbeat of our culture, and the honorees for this year's Black Music Honors represent the soul of American music. We pay homage to the musical innovators who have paved the way for future generations. Our tribute performances not only celebrate the honorees of yesterday but also showcase the influence and impact of their iconic sounds and styles on today's artists with a beautiful symbiosis of past and present."

LeToya Luckett, a founding member of Destiny's Child, and comedic actor DeRay Davis will co-host the event, which will be held on May 19 at Atlanta's Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

The televised special will premiere on the Stellar Network on June 3 and air in national broadcast syndication from Saturday, June 10, to Sunday, July 2, in tribute to Black Music Month. The show will also air on Bounce TV on June 19.

Tickets for the live-taping event will be available for purchase on Friday at www.blackmusichonors.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Erykah Badu and Yasiin Bey Join Forces for 'Unfollow Me' Tour

Grammy-winning singer and songwriter Erykah Badu is set to return to touring after a nearly two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The soulful artist, known for her sultry voice and genre-bending sound, has announced the "Unfollow Me Tour," which will feature her performing across North America alongside rapper, actor and activist Yasiin Bey, also known as Mos Def.

Badu has captivated audiences for over two decades with her ethereal vocals and powerful lyrics. She has released five studio albums to critical acclaim, including her most recent work, the 2015 mixtape "But You Caint Use My Phone," which showcases her signature blend of soul, funk, and hip-hop influences.

Bey, best known for his socially conscious lyrics, has released several critically acclaimed albums since his debut in the late 1990s. He and Badu have collaborated on several tracks over the years, including "Love of My Life (An Ode to Hip-Hop)" and "The Blast."

Badu's return to touring is particularly special as it coincides with the 20th anniversary of her third album, "Worldwide Underground." Produced by independent promoter Outback Presents, the 25-city tour will begin in San Antonio, Texas, on June 11, with stops in Denver, Boston, Las Vegas, Seattle, Nashville and other cities before culminating on July 23 in her hometown of Dallas.

Last year, Badu performed at the BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! event at the Lena Horne Bandshell in Prospect Park. However, the Unfollow Me Tour will be her first North American trek since 2019, when she performed in several theaters around the country.

Pre-sales for the tour begin on April 20 through Ticketmaster. See the full list of tour dates below.

Hip-hop Legend LL Cool J's Platform, Rock the Bells, Secures $15M in Funding

Rock the Bells, the hip-hop platform founded by rap legend LL Cool J, announced on Monday a $15 million funding round anchored by a multi-year collaboration with media giant Paramount Global.

The deal includes a first-look agreement for unscripted and scripted content, feature films and co-branded merchandise opportunities.

Additionally, the two companies will collaborate on marketing support for Rock the Bells experiences and activations, including the opportunity to livestream the upcoming 2023 Rock The Bells Festival that will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop.

LL Cool J expressed his excitement about the partnership in a statement, saying that hip-hop is an art form that "continues to rise to higher heights," and that Rock the Bells is at the forefront of bridging generations.

"I'm excited about all the amazing things we have planned for the community, fans, and brands! This is just the beginning," he added.

Founded in 2018 by LL Cool J, Rock the Bells has become a prominent platform for celebrating and preserving hip-hop culture. With a focus on the art form and its icons, Rock the Bells has gained a loyal following and attracted major brands as partners.

The partnership with Paramount Global is expected to open up new opportunities for Rock the Bells to showcase hip-hop culture and its icons while continuing to honor its legacy.

"Paramount is thrilled to expand our deep relationship with LL COOL J with our investment in Rock The Bells," said Bruce Gillmer, President of Music, Music Talent, Programming & Events at Paramount. "We look forward to working with him to shine a spotlight on Hip-Hop culture and icons through music, events, and diverse content."

Other companies that participated in the Series B funding round, a type of investment round where a company seeks to raise capital to scale and expand its business operations, were Raine Ventures and Irving Azoff of Iconic Artists Group, with participation from Amex Ventures, Wildcat Capital Management and Capstar Ventures. The company also received additional investment from ASK Capital, North Island (Glenn Hutchins), AME Cloud Ventures and XO Capital.

Time Names Michael B. Jordan as One of Four Cover Stars for Its Annual List of 100 Most Influential People

Photograph by Paola Kudacki for TIME

Michael B. Jordan has been named one of the cover stars for this year's TIME 100, the magazine's annual list of the world's most influential people.

In an essay for TIME, Jordan's friend and frequent collaborator, director, and Oscar-nominated producer Ryan Coogler, praised the actor's work both on and off the screen.

"With this year's Creed III, he took on a new role — feature-film director — and handled it with aplomb," Coogler wrote. "But I knew Mike had it in him. Because over that quarter-century of work, nothing was given to him. Everything was earned. And I strongly believe that his best work is still to come."

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Jordan is one of 100 people from around the world to be included on this year's list, which features a diverse array of leaders, thinkers, artists, and activists. The honorees were chosen by TIME editors for their impact on the world over the past year, with a focus on those who have made a significant difference in their respective fields.

Other notables on the list include Beyoncé, actress-producer Angela Bassett, director-producer Gina Prince-Bythewood, WNBA star Brittney Griner, Patrick Mahomes II, playwright Suzan-Lori Parks, singer Steve Lacy, artist Simone Leigh and artist El Anatsui, among others.

The list includes 16 climate leaders, a record number. Politicians like U.S. President Joe Biden, Hakeem Jeffries, and Mitch McConnell also made the cut, as did journalists Evan Gershkovich and Niloofar Hamedi.

Jordan is no stranger to the TIME 100, having been included on the list in 2020.

Click here to see the 2023 TIME100 full list, tributes and videos.

Academy Award Winner Jamie Foxx Recuperating After Undisclosed Medical Issue

Screengrab via YouTube: Jamie Foxx as a vampire hunter in 2022's “Day Shift.”

Academy Award-winning actor and singer, Jamie Foxx, is currently recuperating after suffering a "medical complication" on Tuesday.

Corinne Foxx, his daughter, took to Instagram to share the news with fans and supporters on Wednesday.

"We wanted to share that, my father, Jamie Foxx, experienced a medical complication yesterday," the 29-year-old actress shared in her post.

No further details regarding the nature of Foxx's medical condition were disclosed. However, Corinne Foxx offered reassurance that her father is "already on his way to recovery" thanks to "quick action and great care."

"We know how beloved he is and appreciate your prayers," the post concluded. "The family asks for privacy during this time."

Jamie Foxx, 55, is a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, known for his exceptional talent and captivating performances. He won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Ray Charles in the 2004 biopic "Ray." Foxx is also a renowned singer, comedian, and TV host, having made appearances on hit shows like "Saturday Night Live" and "In Living Color."

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A post shared by Corinne Foxx (@corinnefoxx)

Jay-Z's Rare Paris Performance to Celebrate Art Icons Basquiat and Warhol

Rap mogul Jay-Z will return to the stage this week for a rare live performance. On Tuesday, his label, Roc Nation, announced that he would perform at the Louis Vuitton Foundation's Auditorium in Paris on Friday to celebrate the cultural impact of two of the most influential artists of the 20th century: Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol.

Basquiat was an American artist of Haitian and Puerto Rican descent who rose to fame in the 1980s as a neo-expressionist painter and graffiti artist. His works are known for their intense colors, bold brushstrokes and incorporation of symbols and text.

🇬🇧🎤JAY-Z - Celebration concert

To coincide with the #BasquiatWarhol exhibition at the Fondation, JAY-Z will give a concert to pay tribute to Warhol and Basquiat, on Friday 14 April 2023 at 9pm, in the Fondation’s Auditorium.

🎫Tickets on sale : https://t.co/Icp8NcO0zn pic.twitter.com/3p2gPwxjF2

— Roc Nation (@RocNation) April 12, 2023

Warhol, on the other hand, was an American artist, filmmaker and pioneer of the Pop Art movement, best known for his vividly colored silkscreen prints of celebrities, everyday objects and iconic American symbols such as the Campbell's soup can.

The "Basquiat x Warhol. Painting Four Hands" exhibition, which the concert will coincide with, features the two artists' 160 canvas collaborations, showcasing the distinctive styles of both artists and highlighting the artistic dialogue between them.

The event, dubbed the "JAY-Z Celebration Concert," is sponsored by Tiffany & Co. and marks a rare occurrence for Jay-Z, who hasn't been on an official tour since his $44-billion grossing 4:44 Tour in 2017. He was last seen on stage rapping his "God Did" verse at the 2023 Grammy Awards, something he said he did out of respect for hip-hop culture.

"I thought about it, I was in my head, and I just broke down and said, 'You know, it's a four-minute verse.' Again, for the culture, for hip-hop, we gotta do that," he told TIDAL.

Jay-Z's love for Basquiat and Warhol has been evident in his music for decades. In his 2008 song "Ain't I," he rapped, "I got Warhols on my hall's walls, I got Basquiats in the lobby of my spot/I'm so sophisticatedly hood, S. Carter cashmere premium goods." In his 2011 song "Illest Motherf*cker Alive," he rapped, "Basquiat, Warhols serving as my muses/My house like a museum, so I see 'em when I'm peeing, usually, you have this much taste, you European."

Beyoncé wearing the iconic Tiffany Stone alongside Jay Z & a never-before-seen painting by Basquiat. Jean-Michel Basquiat was regarded as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. He dies at 27 of an overdose. Jeffery Wright portrays him in “Basquiat.” pic.twitter.com/pj4US32zqV

— Loni Love (@LoniLove) August 23, 2021

It's worth noting that the concert will also be supported by Tiffany & Co., with which both Jay-Z and his wife Beyoncé have brand deals. Although Basquiat's estate has spoken out against his work being featured in Jay-Z and Beyoncé's Tiffany & Co campaign, Jay-Z emphasizes that he is solely a fan of the artist.

Rihanna Overtakes Katy Perry as Most Followed Woman on Twitter With 108 million Followers

YouTube Screengrab

Rihanna has added yet another accolade to her already impressive résumé, becoming the most followed woman on Twitter, according to the social media analytics tracking platform Social Blade.

With a massive 108,276,354 followers (at the time this story was published), she now sits in fourth place on the platform's global leaderboard, just behind former US President Barack Obama and Justin Bieber. At the top of the list is Elon Musk, who took over ownership of the social media platform in October 2022.

This milestone marks a significant achievement for the multi-talented artist, who has found success in music, fashion, and cosmetics. Rihanna's Twitter feat came just after her recent Super Bowl halftime performance, where she announced her second pregnancy while singing a medley of her hits.

Following the Super Bowl performance, her music saw a massive surge in sales and streams, with her digital album sales jumping by 301%. Among all her songs, "Pour It Up" saw the biggest boost, with a 1,387% increase in digital song sales and a 470% increase in on-demand audio streams.

Most followed female artists on Twitter:

#1. Rihanna — 108.2M🔺
#2. Katy Perry — 108.2M🔻
#3. Taylor Swift — 92.5M
#4. Lady Gaga — 84.6M
#5. Selena Gomez — 67M
#6. Britney Spears — 55.8M
#7. Shakira — 53.9M
#8. Demi Lovato — 53.6M pic.twitter.com/zHR5fNmwu2

— Noah ⁶𓅓 (@RIHINDUSTRY) April 9, 2023

Rihanna's cosmetics and lingerie brands, Fenty Beauty and Savage x Fenty, respectively, also experienced a significant surge in attention after her Super Bowl performance. Fenty Beauty alone earned $5.6 million in earned media within the first 12 hours following the game.

diamonds by rihanna - super bowl edition pic.twitter.com/yU1JSn6sUJ

— songs that changed history (@iconiksongs) April 4, 2023

Her powerful appearance at the Oscars, which took place exactly one month after her Super Bowl showstopper, may have also contributed to this increase. At the Oscars, she performed her ballad "Lift Me Up" from the nominated movie "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever," paying tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman. This performance earned her the first Oscar nomination of her career and marked the release of her first new solo track in six years.

Watch @Rihanna’s full performance of “Lift Me Up” at the #Oscars pic.twitter.com/dl9jRmtreG

— RihannaDaily.com (@RihannaDaily) March 13, 2023

In an interview with British Vogue, Rihanna revealed her plans to release a new album, her first since 2016, adding to her already impressive track record. With all of these accomplishments under her belt, it's no surprise that her fans are flocking to Twitter to see what she has in store for them next.

Doja Cat's New Album to Showcase Rap Skills

Georgebre, via Wikimedia Commons

Grammy-nominated artist Doja Cat is set to release her fourth studio album, which she recently confirmed will focus on her rapping skills instead of her usual pop sound. 

Tentatively titled "Hellmouth," the 27-year-old artist took to Twitter over the weekend to announce that the album will be "rap only" and will not feature any pop elements.

"Pop isn't exciting to me anymore. I don't want to make it," she tweeted.

In response to a tweet from a naysayer who questioned her rap skills, Doja Cat confidently declared, "I'm definitely a rapper." She also expressed her desire to show her critics that she can write more than "mid" and "corny" verses with her new album.

i also agree with everyone who said the majority of my rap verses are mid and corny. I know they are. I wasnt trying to prove anything I just enjoy making music but I'm getting tired of hearing yall say that i can't so I will.

— Hellmouth (@DojaCat) April 8, 2023

"I wasn't trying to prove anything. I just enjoy making music," she tweeted. "But I'm getting tired of hearing y'all say that I can't [rap] so I will."

Later, she shared a screenshot of the audio files and three tracks from the album titled "Wet Vagina," "Agora Hills," and "Balut." When a fan asked if those were actual songs on the album, she simply replied with "Yes."

✍️✍️ pic.twitter.com/sjwi2FhBbP

— Hellmouth (@DojaCat) April 8, 2023

In other tweets responding to fans' speculations, Doja Cat continued to give away hints of what to expect from the album. In a separate tweet, she wrote that there will be a lot of cuss words. She also confirmed that the album has "10 tracks total +5 extras."

This shift towards rap marks a significant departure from Doja Cat's previous pop-leaning releases, such as her chart-topping hits "Say So," "Juicy" and "Streets."

Doja Cat, whose real name is Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamin, gained popularity in 2018 with her viral hit "Mooo!" and has since been making waves in the music industry. She received three Grammy Award nominations in 2021, including Best New Artist and Record of the Year for "Say So."

Watch: Da Brat and Wife Judy Return to TV Screens in Third Season of "Brat Loves Judy" Reality Show

Courtesy We tv

Da Brat, the legendary Chicago rapper born as Shawntae Harris, has made history twice.

First, in 1994, she became the first solo female rapper to go platinum with her debut album "Funkdafied."

Over two decades later, she made history again by publicly coming out as a lesbian, defying the norms of an industry known for misogyny and a lack of tolerance for alternate lifestyles.

"I've always felt like being private is the better way to go because then you don't have so many people in your business," Brat told Variety at the time. "I was fine staying quiet, but my partner is a social media mogul — that's how she became who she is. And when you get with somebody, you have to meet in the middle. So to me, the middle was just letting everybody know: 'Hey, she's the one.'"

Brat's partner is none other than Jesseca "Judy" Dupart, a social media star and entrepreneur. The two tied the knot in 2022 and will continue to share their personal lives with fans on the upcoming third season of "Brat Loves Judy."

This season will focus on the highs and lows of their first year of marriage, including Judy's pregnancy. However, the road to expanding their empire has been far from easy.

The couple has faced unexpected obstacles on their IVF journey, including health issues. As they navigate the complexities of blended family dynamics, Judy's son moving in adds another layer of drama to their relationship, highlighting their contrasting parenting styles and backgrounds.

Despite these hurdles, Brat and Judy have also collaborated on a new hair care product line called "Kaleidoscope X Brat," marking their first official joint venture.

Will the couple overcome the family drama and maintain their flourishing careers while merging their empires? Fans can tune in to WE tv on April 27 (9 pm ET), with episodes airing on ALLBLK the following Monday.

Watch the network's recently released supertease of the upcoming season below for a sneak peek of the action:

From Apple Bottoms to Moonshine Bottles: Nelly's Latest Business Venture

Photo Courtesy: MoShine

Multi-Grammy Award-winning artist Nelly announced on Thursday his latest venture: MoShine, a new moonshine brand that fuses the "southern swagger" of hip-hop with the heartland hustle of country music.

Developed in collaboration with Piedmont Distillers, MoShine is a triple-distilled, corn-based moonshine available in peach and passion fruit flavors.

The company claims that it is smooth enough to be sipped neat or mixed with various beverages, including lemon-lime soda, sweet tea, lemonade, and energy drinks.

The brand's name is inspired by Nelly's hometown of St. Louis, Missouri, where hip-hop and country music intersect.

"When I say 'country grammar,' I'm not just talking about my music. I'm taking a country tradition and mixing it up for everyone to enjoy," Nelly said in a statement.

Nelly is no stranger to entrepreneurship, having launched his successful Apple Bottoms clothing line and energy drink, Pimp Juice. He has also acted in films such as "Reach Me" and "The Longest Yard."

Despite his success in various industries, Nelly has stayed true to his musical roots. He has released numerous hit albums, including "Country Grammar" and "Nellyville," and collaborated with artists from different genres.

In recent years, he has focused on his country music career, achieving a No. 7 spot on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart with his EP "Heartland" and releasing the hit single "The Fix."

Nelly introduced MoShine at the WSWA Access Live event, the leading spirits industry gathering, where he performed some of his biggest chart-topping hits. The brand is currently available online at DrinkMoShine.com.

Fans Divided Over Lizzo and Jack Black's Guest Roles on 'The Mandalorian'

Screengrab YouTube

The recent surprise appearance of Grammy-winning artist Lizzo on the hit Disney+ Star Wars spin-off
series, "The Mandalorian," has sparked controversy among fans of the show.

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Lizzo just knighted Baby yoda aka grogu. What is happening in Star Wars #TheMandalorian #StarWars pic.twitter.com/FWnEsqgTyH

— Atom (@theatomreview) April 5, 2023

In "Chapter 22: Guns for Hire," written by Jon Favreau and directed by Bryce Dallas Howard, Lizzo portrays The Duchess, a leader of the distant planet Plazir-15, whom Pedro Pascal's Mandalorian encounters while searching for the former crew of Bo-Katan, played by Katee Sackhoff. Jack Black also appears in the episode as Captain Bombardier, while Christopher Lloyd plays the planet's security chief, Commissioner Helgait.

While some fans were thrilled to see the talented trio on their favorite show, others took to social media to express their disappointment and frustration.

Disney put Jack Black and Lizzo in an episode of "The Mandalorian" to kill Star Wars entirely https://t.co/elahJidraz

— Not the Bee (@Not_the_Bee) April 5, 2023

"Disney put Jack Black and Lizzo in an episode of 'The Mandalorian' to kill Star Wars entirely," wrote one Twitter user.

Another fan expressed similar sentiments, saying, "I actually like Jack Black and Lizzo as performers, but I can't imagine this being any good. It's like how I love chocolate cake, and I love onion rings, but I don't want onion rings on my cake."

I actually like Jack Black and Lizzo as performers, but I can't imagine this being any good. It's like how I love chocolate cake, and I love onion rings, but I don't want onion rings on my cake.

— Lankychris (@Lankychris) April 5, 2023

Despite the negative reaction from some viewers, Lizzo's performance was praised by others.

Jack Black and Lizzo are instantly my favorite Star Wars couple. #TheMandalorian pic.twitter.com/kUk59geBYf

— Gianni Raisins (@BGaytion) April 5, 2023

"Jack Black and Lizzo are instantly my favorite Star Wars couple!" raved Twitter user @BGaytion.

The surprise cameos add Lizzo, Black, and Lloyd to an impressive list of celebrities who have made appearances on the series, including Jason Sudeikis, Taika Waititi, Timothy Olyphant, John Leguizamo, Adam Pally, Horatio Sanz, and W. Earl Brown, Olyphant's Deadwood co-star.

New Docuseries 'Family Legacy' on Paramount+ Promises Intimate Look at Offspring of Notorious B.I.G., Diddy, and Brandy

Courtesy Paramount+

The offspring of iconic artists are set to take the spotlight in the upcoming reality show "Family Legacy," scheduled to premiere on Paramount+.

The show was announced by the network today and aims to "relive some of entertainment's most iconic moments and provide viewers with an intimate look at their favorite artists," according to a statement from Paramount+.

Quincy Brown, son of R&B singer Al B. Sure! and stepson of Sean "Diddy" Combs, serves as the show's narrator, promising an intimate glimpse into the next generation of musicians. The recently unveiled trailer for "Family Legacy" provides a tantalizing sneak peek into the lives and careers of these famous musicians' offspring.

C.J. Wallace, son of the late Notorious B.I.G., pays heartfelt homage to his father as "the greatest rapper of all time." Melissa Etheridge's daughter, Bailey Cypheridge, proudly embraces her identity as the "OG lesbian baby," while Briahna Fatone, daughter of *NSYNC's Joey Fatone, shares a special bond with her father.

The docuseries also features Andrew Hagar, son of Van Halen's Sammy Hagar, Baylee Littrell, son of Backstreet Boys' Brian Littrell, Nathan Morris II, son of Boyz II Men's Nathan Morris and Draven Bennington, son of Linkin Park's Chester Bennington, among others.

Christian "King" Combs and Justin Combs, both sons of Sean "Diddy" Combs, also make an appearance, along with Sy'Rai Smith, daughter of Brandy, and Tron Austin, son of TLC's Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas.

"Family Legacy" is set to premiere on April 25 on Paramount+ in the U.S. and Canada.

Watch the official trailer below:

Kem's Memoir 'Share My Life' Reveals Journey of Love, Faith and Redemption

Photo Credit: Keith Majors

Grammy-nominated R&B artist Kem will release his memoir, "Share My Life: A Journey of Love, Faith and Redemption," on Tuesday. The book takes readers on an intimate journey through Kem's life, from a difficult childhood to homelessness and his rise to international stardom.

Kem is renowned for his polished and smooth style, earning four Grammy nominations and releasing numerous hit albums and singles, including "Love Calls," "I Can't Stop Loving You," "Why Would You Stay," and "Nobody." The memoir shares its title with one of Kem's No. 1 hit singles and is published by Simon and Schuster. Kirkus Reviews praised the book as a "forthright chronicle of hard-won success."

In his memoir, Kem bravely delves into the emotional struggles he faced on his journey to success. Growing up with an alcoholic mother and a distant father, Kem battled with feelings of abandonment, turning to drugs and alcohol to cope. After finding himself homeless and in drug rehab centers, he discovered his passion for music, composing songs that would eventually appear on his debut album, "Kemistry." This seminal work catapulted him into the ranks of Motown's legendary icons.

"I think it's my responsibility to share my life — the good times and the bad — so that I can encourage and inspire others," Kem said about his motivation for publishing the book. The memoir was co-written with music biographer David Ritz, known for his biographies of music greats such as Ray Charles, Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin and Willie Nelson.

Photo Credit: Keith Majors

To coincide with the book's launch, Kem's label home of twenty years, Motown Records, will release his live album "Anniversary" on April 7th. The album features hit singles from Kem's entire career and was recorded at The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre in Detroit during the fall of 2022.

"Celebrating the 20th anniversary of my signing to the Motown label is exceptionally significant for me," Kem said. "Having the last two decades of my career culminate in a live album recorded in Detroit, in the city and with the people who first heard 'Love Calls' and helped put me on the map, is epic."

Kem is currently embarking on a co-headlining national arena tour with Ledisi called the Soul II Soul Tour. The tour kicks off on Friday and features Musiq Soulchild as a special guest. Fans can purchase tickets online at musicbykem.com.

Watch: Megan Thee Stallion Helps Defending Champs Open MLB Season by Throwing Out First Pitch

Photo Credit: @thestallion Instagram

Houston native Megan Thee Stallion made a special appearance at the Astros' home opener on Thursday, where she threw the ceremonial first pitch for her hometown team.

The Grammy-winning rapper donned a white Astros jersey and a diamond chain with the words "Hot Girl," along with a jersey displaying her last name and "222" on the back.

While her pitch landed a little outside and bounced in the left-handed batter's box, Megan managed to get the ball to the plate, a feat that has eluded many other celebrities attempting the first pitch. Astros' mascot, Orbit, gave her a hug to celebrate the accomplishment.

The pitch was a lighthearted moment in Megan's busy schedule, as she continues to make waves in the entertainment industry.

Megan is in talks to star in a new Netflix movie alongside Adam Sandler, which will be directed and produced by Josh and Benny Safdie, the directors of the hit movie "Uncut Gems." The film, set in the world of sports memorabilia, will begin production this summer, although its title and plot are yet to be revealed.

Megan is also making her feature film debut in the R-rated musical comedy "F***ing Identical Twins," produced by A24 and Chernin Entertainment. She will star opposite Nathan Lane, Bowen Yang and Megan Mullally, although the film's release date is still unknown.

However, Megan has also been involved in a high-profile court case with rapper Tory Lanez, whose legal name is Daystar Peterson. Lanez was found guilty of shooting Megan on a California curbside in July 2020.

Lanez's lawyers have filed a motion for a new trial, citing various grounds, including a claim that the judge "erroneously allowed" jurors to view an Instagram post from Lanez's account claiming that Megan's now-estranged best friend Kelsey Harris was the shooter.

During the trial, both Kelsey and Megan denied the allegations that Kelsey fired the shots that wounded Megan. Lanez faces up to 22 years in prison at sentencing, but his new lawyers have successfully lobbied the judge to delay his sentencing until April to prepare for the motion.

Check out Megan's first pitch below: