Motown's Love Song Ends: Abdul 'Duke' Fakir, Last Four Top, Dies

Photo Credit: Jay Goodwin

Fakir at the LBJ Presidential Library in 2019.

Abdul "Duke" Fakir, the last surviving member of the Four Tops, the Motown quartet whose soaring harmonies and heartbreaking lyrics helped define the sound of a generation, died Monday. He was 88.

Fakir died of heart failure at his home in Detroit, surrounded by family, according to a spokesperson. His passing marks the end of an era for one of the most popular acts of the 1960s, known for hits like "Reach Out I'll Be There" and "I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)."

NEW YORK (AP) - Abdul "Duke" Fakir, the last surviving original member of the beloved Motown group the Four Tops that was known for such hits as "Reach Out, I'll Be There" and "Standing in the Shadows of Love," has died at age 88.
Fakir died Monday of heart failure, according to… pic.twitter.com/xvWoon944I

— Chris Walker (@WalkerATX) July 22, 2024

As the lead tenor, Fakir provided the bedrock for the group's distinctive sound, his smooth voice blending seamlessly with Levi Stubbs' powerful baritone and the rich harmonies of Renaldo "Obie" Benson and Lawrence Payton. Their music, often infused with themes of love, loss, and longing, resonated with audiences worldwide and continues to be celebrated today.

Born in 1935 in Detroit, Fakir's journey to musical stardom began in the city's vibrant gospel scene. He initially aspired to be a professional athlete but found his true calling in music, forming the Four Tops with his childhood friend Stubbs and fellow singers Benson and Payton.

The group's breakthrough came in 1963 when they signed with Motown Records and were paired with the legendary songwriting and production team Holland-Dozier-Holland. The collaboration yielded a string of chart-topping hits that solidified the Four Tops' place in music history.

(1/3) In Memoriam: 1990 Inductee Abdul “Duke” Fakir was the last remaining original member of the Four Tops, one of the mightiest vocal groups of all time. pic.twitter.com/VsFpyP99hX

— Rock Hall (@rockhall) July 22, 2024

Between 1964 and 1967, they achieved 11 Top 20 hits, including two No. 1 singles: "I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)" and "Reach Out I'll Be There." Other notable songs included "Baby I Need Your Loving," "Bernadette" and "Just Ask the Lonely."

Initially called the Four Aims, the group changed their name to avoid confusion with the Ames Brothers. They had recorded for several labels, including Chess Records, with little commercial success before their association with Motown.With Fakir as lead tenor, the Four Tops became known for their tight, haunting harmonies behind Stubbs' powerful baritone. Their music often reflected themes of romantic pain and loss, contributing to their lasting legacy in the music industry.

After Holland-Dozier-Holland left Motown in 1967, the Four Tops continued to have sporadic success with hits like "Still Water (Love)" and "Keeper of the Castle." Their last Top 20 hit came in the early 1980s with "When She Was My Girl."

Despite changes in the music industry, the Four Tops remained a popular concert act, touring with latter-day members of the Temptations and maintaining their unity until Payton's death in 1997. Benson died in 2005 and Stubbs in 2008.

“The things I love about them the most — they are very professional, they have fun with what they do, they are very loving, they have always been gentlemen,” Stevie Wonder said when he helped induct the Four Tops into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990.

The group was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998 and received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009.

Fakir, who was married twice, most recently to Piper Gibson for the last 50 years, had seven children, six of whom survive him. He recently completed a memoir titled "I'll Be There," published in 2022, and was working on a planned Broadway musical based on the group's life.

Hot Girl Meg Sparks Emergency Power Program for Elderly Amid Texas Outages

Megan Thee Stallion is launching an initiative to provide generators for senior citizens across her native Houston to prepare them for future natural disasters. After Hurricane Beryl recently left 2 million people without power, the rapper decided to take action.

The rapper, whose real name is Megan Pete, is partnering with Bread of Life, Inc. to launch the Emergency Power Program through her Pete and Thomas Foundation. The organizations will provide generators to elderly residents in Houston, granting them the ability to maintain electricity during natural disasters.

"It's been painful to watch the elderly population in Houston suffer without electricity during these devastating storms,” she said in a statement. “That's why we wanted to partner with Bread of Life to take a strategic approach to this problem and secure generators to help protect our senior citizens. We need to do our part to provide our elders with the best resources possible to withstand future emergencies.”

Earlier this week, more than 200,000 CenterPoint Energy customers were still without power, struggling with the heat one week after Hurricane Beryl swept through southeast Texas. CenterPoint Energy, the Houston-area utility, said it has restored power faster than in recent storms and expected full restoration by Friday.

Rudy Rasmus, Executive Director and Founder of Bread of Life, Inc., emphasized the urgency of the initiative.

"We want to expand our support of the most vulnerable people in the city, and Hurricane Beryl, the derecho, and other storms have highlighted that our seniors are in dire need of assistance," Rasmus said. "Through our partnership with Megan Thee Stallion and her Pete and Thomas Foundation, we hope to provide generators to senior personal care homes this hurricane season. Our goal is to provide generators to our most vulnerable seniors ahead of storms or other events that knock out power so there is no interruption in service."

The initiative is timely, as Hurricane Beryl left at least 18 people dead and millions without power for several days. Reliable backup power has become critical for Houston’s most vulnerable residents.

Megan Thee Stallion, a three-time Grammy Award winner, recently released her third album, "Megan," and performed at the BET Awards 2024. She established the Pete and Thomas Foundation in February 2022 to support women, children, senior citizens, and underserved communities.

Recognizing the increasing frequency of severe weather events in Houston, the Pete and Thomas Foundation and Bread of Life, Inc. established the Emergency Power Program to support senior citizens in the short term and provide a long-term solution to protect them from future emergencies and power outages.

Missy Elliott Makes History as NASA Sends Her Hit to Venus

Hold onto your inflatable chairs and dust off your butterfly clips, because Missy Elliott just took "Supa Dupa Fly" to a whole new level: Venus. NASA beamed the iconic 1997 hit across 158 million miles of space on Friday, July 12, making it the first hip-hop track to ever reach another planet.

Missy's lyrics hitched a ride on NASA's Deep Space Network, traveling at the speed of light to give Venus a taste of that '90s hip-hop flavor. And where better to blast this female empowerment anthem than the planet named after the goddess of love and beauty herself?

"I still can't believe I'm going out of this world with NASA through the Deep Space Network when 'The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)' becomes the first-ever hip-hop song to transmit to space!" Elliott said in a statement. "I chose Venus because it symbolizes strength, beauty, and empowerment, and I am so humbled to have the opportunity to share my art and my message with the universe!"

The transmission, facilitated by the Deep Space Station 13 radio dish antenna in Barstow, California (aptly nicknamed "Venus"), took just 14 minutes to reach the planet.

Brittany Brown, director of Digital and Technology at NASA Headquarters, said the collaboration was a natural fit.

YOOO this is crazy! We just went #OutOfThisWorld with @NASA and sent the FIRST hip hop song into space through the Deep Space Network. My song “The Rain” has officially been transmitted all the way to Venus, the planet that symbolizes strength, beauty and empowerment. The sky is… pic.twitter.com/g6HofNQSt1

— Missy Elliott (@MissyElliott) July 15, 2024

"Both space exploration and Missy Elliott's art have been about pushing boundaries," Brown said. "Missy has a track record of infusing space-centric storytelling and futuristic visuals in her music videos, so the opportunity to collaborate on something out of this world is truly fitting."

"The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)" is only the second song ever transmitted into deep space, following the Beatles' "Across the Universe" in 2008.

The transmission comes ahead of two upcoming NASA missions to Venus, DAVINCI (Deep Atmosphere Venus Investigation of Noble gases, Chemistry, and Imaging) and VERITAS (Venus Emissivity, Radio Science, InSAR, Topography, and Spectroscopy), scheduled for launch in the late 2020s. The Deep Space Network, which has been operational since 1963, will be instrumental in receiving data from these missions.

NASA hopes the transmission of Elliott's music will inspire future generations of scientists and explorers, just as Missy's music has inspired generations of artists and fans on Earth. Perhaps, somewhere out there in the cosmos, extraterrestrial life forms are already grooving to the beat.

Judge Ural Glanville Removed from Young Thug Trial Amid Bias Allegations

The high-profile trial of rapper Young Thug, whose real name is Jeffery Williams, has been further delayed after the presiding judge was removed from the case amid allegations of bias and improper conduct.

Fulton County Superior Court Judge Ural Glanville was formally recused on Monday following a written order by Judge Rachel Krause, who was assigned to hear recusal motions from Williams and a co-defendant.

The defense had filed a motion to remove Glanville, citing allegations of bias and misconduct, including holding an improper meeting with a key prosecution witness.

Judge Ural Glanville has been recused from Young Thug's YSL RICO trial after holding a secret meeting with prosecutors and a key witness.

Superior Court Judge Rachel Krause granted the motions filed by Young Thug and his co-defendant Deamonte Kendrick. pic.twitter.com/szo2cr1bvQ

— No Jumper (@nojumper) July 15, 2024

Krause, while agreeing "generally" with Glanville's defense of his actions as "proper," decided that recusal was necessary to maintain public trust in the judicial system.

"This Court has no doubt that Judge Glanville can and would continue presiding fairly over this matter if the recusal motions were denied, but the 'necessity of preserving the public's confidence in the judicial system' weighs in favor of excusing Judge Glanville from further handling of this case," Krause wrote in her order.

The decision follows a dramatic turn in the trial on June 7, when Kenneth Copeland, also known as "Lil Woody," refused to testify despite a plea bargain agreement, invoking his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. Copeland was subsequently found in contempt of court and jailed. Williams' attorney, Brian Steel, confronted Glanville after learning about a private meeting held in the judge's chambers with Copeland and the prosecution, leading to Steel also being found in contempt of court. His sentence of 10 weekends in jail has been stayed pending an appeal.

Remarkable that it doesn't appear to be the actual ex parte meeting that did Judge Glanville in in the Young Thug / YSL trial - it was how he handled the aftermath, and his arrogant rejection of the recusal motions, and his own written order. https://t.co/JcksdZuNe4 pic.twitter.com/FZbwRMVzt5

— Meghann Cuniff (@meghanncuniff) July 15, 2024

The trial, already the longest-running criminal trial in Georgia history, has faced numerous legal hurdles. Jury selection alone took 10 months, and the trial has seen frequent breaks and delays.

Young Thug’s case has been assigned to a new Judge:

Judge Shukura L. Ingram pic.twitter.com/QNoZn866wf

— THUGGERDAILY ひ (@ThuggerDaily) July 15, 2024

Following Glanville's removal, the case has been reassigned to Shukura L. Ingram, according to the court's standard procedures. The timeline for when testimony will resume remains unclear as the new judge familiarizes themselves with the complex case.

Williams, along with several co-defendants, faces racketeering charges. The case, which has attracted significant media attention, continues to unfold with each legal maneuver further complicating the proceedings.

Court Dismisses Federal Gun Charge Against Boosie Badazz

TrillEntCMG, via Wikimedia Commons

Rapper Boosie Badazz, legally known as Torrence Hatch, had his federal gun charge dismissed on Friday by the United States District Court Southern District of California. The charge stemmed from his arrest last June in San Diego, where he was accused of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Hello from San Diego, where a federal judge today dismissed a gun charge against rapper Torrance “Boosie Badazz” Hatch.

Boosie cried and said he’s going to take his family on vacation to celebrate.

Here he is leaving court with his lawyer Meghan Blanco. pic.twitter.com/IgMAIudJEd

— Meghann Cuniff (@meghanncuniff) July 12, 2024

The dismissal marks a significant legal victory for the rapper, who has been entangled in multiple legal battles in recent years. Boosie's lawyer confirmed the court's decision, though specific details surrounding the dismissal remain unclear. The rapper was reportedly filming a music video in San Diego when police observed a firearm in his waistband during an Instagram Live session.

Boosie Reacts To His Federal Gun Case Getting Dismissed Today #Boosie pic.twitter.com/yG2pLx64J9

— Real1Of1TV (@Real1of1TV) July 12, 2024

Court reporter Meghann Cuniff shared a photo on X, formerly known as Twitter, showing Boosie and his attorney Meghan Blanco outside the San Diego courtroom. During the hearing, Boosie grew emotional and expressed his intentions to take his family on vacation to celebrate.

"I'm at a loss for words right now, man," Boosie said in a video posted on his Instagram. "I'm gonna take me a trip cross country, bro. Go to about three different countries. God is good, boy. He'll make a way out of no way. That [expletive] love me, bro."

Boosie also shared his gratitude on social media, posting: "CASE DISMISSED!! GOD I JUST WANNA SAY THANK U!! YOU NEVER LEAVE ME, U MAKE A WAY OUT OF NO WAY. U MADE ME BEAT SOUTH BATON ROUGE, U MADE ME BEAT CANCER, U MADE ME BEAT DEATHROW, U MADE ME BEAT GUN SHOTS, U MADE ME BEAT FED CASES, U FORGAVE MY SINS #itrustnugod EVERY TIME IT LOOKED LIKE IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE YOU SHOWED THEY ASS! TO ANYONE IN TROUBLE CALL ON GOD I DON'T CARE HOW BAD IT LOOKS HE WILL DO IT! HE WILL MAKE A WAY OUT OF NO WAY. Shoutout to my attorneys @missanairam @daali5150 WE DID IT!! Shoutout to my prayer warriors @standingongodsword @donkspeaks and all my fans who said a prayer. TO EVERYONE WHO SHITTED ON ME N SAID I WAS GOING TO JAIL, TO THOSE WHO WANTED ME LOCKED UP N TO THOSE WHO DID ME WRONG THINKING I WOULD BE IN JAIL, JOKES ON U [EXPLETIVE]."

'Illmatic' Tops Billboard's List of Greatest Rap Albums, Nas Reacts

Nas has received the ultimate accolade for his debut album, "Illmatic," as Billboard names it the greatest rap album of all time. The legendary rapper expressed his gratitude and excitement on Instagram acknowledging the honor and the support from his fans: "Thank you to @billboard! N the people !!! We here #1 illmatic."

The album, which includes hits like "N.Y. State of Mind" and "The World Is Yours," has been widely regarded as one of the greatest albums in the genre's history.

In Billboard's ranking, "Illmatic" beat out other iconic albums such as Dr. Dre's "The Chronic," Lauryn Hill's "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill," OutKast's "Aquemini," and The Notorious B.I.G.'s "Life After Death."

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A post shared by Nasir Jones (@nas)

The top 10 list also featured 2Pac's "All Eyez On Me," Snoop Dogg's "Doggystyle," Eric B. and Rakim's "Paid in Full," JAY-Z's "The Blueprint" and Slick Rick's "The Great Adventures of Slick Rick."

However, the list stirred some controversy with certain album placements. Billboard ranked Cardi B's "Invasion of Privacy" at No. 29, ahead of JAY-Z's "Reasonable Doubt," Kendrick Lamar's "good kid, m.A.A.d city" and Eminem's "The Marshall Mathers LP." Albums by Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj, and Lil Uzi Vert were also ranked above OutKast's "Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik," MF DOOM and Madlib's "Madvillainy" and Run-DMC's "Raising Hell," raising eyebrows among some hip-hop fans.

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A post shared by Nasir Jones (@nas)

Nas reflected on his journey and the creation of "Illmatic" in a heartfelt Instagram post earlier this year. He recounted how he dreamed of working with his favorite producers and how he achieved that vision with the help of Large Professor, DJ Premier, Q-Tip, Pete Rock, and DJ LES. He expressed gratitude for their contributions and for the album's lasting impact.

In addition to Billboard's recognition, Nas and "Illmatic" were recently honored by the New York State Senate. Senator Jamaal T. Bailey highlighted Nas’ achievements, saying, “Nasir Jones, poetically known as Nas, was making the greatest Hip Hop album of all time, Illmatic. Nas has been a Hip Hop griot — the rapid response system for the streets, for lack of a better term.”

Celebrating Illmatic 30th anniversary with The Las Vegas Philharmonic on Labor Day Weekend August 29 to September 1. Presale tickets available now at https://t.co/SDMyAnnjKt (code: represent) pic.twitter.com/jQRAstiolq

— Nasir Jones (@Nas) May 21, 2024

As 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of "Illmatic," Nas is planning to celebrate with special live performances. He is set to perform the album with the Las Vegas Philharmonic at the Encore Theater in Las Vegas, with shows scheduled for August 29, 31, and September 1. This event follows a previous symphonic performance of "Illmatic" with the National Symphony Orchestra in New York City in 2018.

"Illmatic" was groundbreaking for its innovative use of an all-star producer team and for Nas' extraordinary storytelling, capturing the struggles and dreams of life in New York City. Upon its release, the album entered the Billboard 200 at number 12 and peaked at number two on the US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. It has since achieved Platinum status and sold over 2 million copies in the United States.

Notorious B.I.G.'s 'Ready to Die' Marks 30 Years With Reissue

The Notorious B.I.G.'s groundbreaking debut album, "Ready to Die," is set for a special 30th-anniversary reissue on September 13th. Rhino Records announced the reissue last Friday, months after the album's induction into the Library of Congress' National Recording Registry, solidifying its cultural impact.

The two-LP reissue will feature newly reimagined limited edition cover art and will be available in both black and color vinyl editions. The black vinyl version will be sold through Rhino.com and biggiemerch.com, while the color vinyl edition will be exclusive to select retailers.

Author and journalist Justin Tinsley, in his essay for the Library of Congress induction, described the album as a response to "American capitalism and just how deadly the pursuit of money could be and was for so many—in particular, young Black folks in America."

The 6x platinum-certified album, celebrated for hits like "Juicy" and "Big Poppa," each with over 1 billion streams, continues to be recognized as one of the greatest hip-hop albums ever, appearing on lists like Apple Music's 100 Best Albums of All Time and Rolling Stone's 200 Greatest Hip-Hop Albums of All Time.

The reissue comes 30 years to the day after the album's original release, marking a milestone for a record that shaped hip-hop's golden age and solidified The Notorious B.I.G.'s place as a rap legend.

Track Listing for Ready To Die (30th Anniversary)

LP One: Side One
Intro
"Things Done Changed"
"Gimme The Loot"
"Machine Gun Funk"
"Warning"

Side Two
6. "Ready To Die"
7. "One More Chance"
8. "F*$K Me"
9. "The What"
10. "Juicy"

LP Two: Side One
"Every Day Struggle"
"Me & My Bitch"
"Big Poppa"
"Respect"

Side Two
5. "Friend of Mine"
6. "Unbelievable"
7. "Suicidal Thoughts"
8. "Who Shot Ya"

Ye Says He's Out, But Will He Really Fade to Black?

Ye and Ty Dolla $ign's "Vultures 1" album topped the charts when it was released in February.

Hold onto your hypebeasts, folks! Ye — the artist formerly known as Kanye West — might be hanging up his microphone for good. Yes, that's right, the man who brought us "The College Dropout" and "Jesus Walks" (and, let's be honest, a whole lotta controversy) is hinting at a full-blown musical retirement.

Rich the Kid shared an alleged text message from Ye on Tuesday, July 9, in which the rapper explained his decision to walk away from professional music. "I am retiring from professional music. Not sure what else to do," West wrote in the message.

Ye said he’s retiring from making music but he don’t know what else to do pic.twitter.com/Sd3aM52dTl

— Donda Times (@dondatimes) July 9, 2024

Rich the Kid tried to convince him otherwise: "Retire? Why? How? The people NEED you. The music you & Ty & we have made the BIGGEST STAMP in culture to this date in 2024. Drop Ye about mine & V2 and we do it all over again. The kids need you big bro for sure. Maybe some time to chill but retiring ain't it." The "New Freezer" rapper deleted the text message exchange featuring Ye's alleged retirement from his Instagram Story about a half-hour after originally posting it.

Ye and Ty Dolla $ign's "Vultures 1" album topped the charts when it was released in February, as did the album single "Carnival" featuring Playboi Carti and Rich the Kid. However, the second and third volumes the duo promised fans in March and April failed to drop. According to Ty Dolla $ign, all the songs for the second album are complete. However, no release date has been announced since it was last rumored to be dropping in May. Most recently, Ye and Ty announced a "Vultures" listening event to take place in Korea on Aug. 23.

Ye's career has been marked by dramatic announcements and sudden changes in direction, leaving fans and industry observers questioning whether this retirement declaration is final or another twist in his unpredictable journey. His influence on the music industry has been significant, from groundbreaking albums like "The College Dropout" and "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy" to his ventures into fashion and other creative fields.

For now, fans and the music world wait to see if Ye's retirement will stick or if he will once again surprise everyone with a new chapter in his storied career.

Court Grants Extension for Prosecutors in Young Thug Judge Recusal Dispute

The trial of rapper Young Thug has been further delayed after prosecutors requested more time to respond to a defense motion to remove the presiding judge. The defense motion seeks to remove Fulton County Superior Court Judge Ural Glanville from the case due to allegations of bias or misconduct.

The court has granted a 48-hour extension due to an unexpected medical emergency, pushing the deadline from 5 p.m. on Monday to 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

Motion granted by Judge Rachel Krause.

State responses are now due Wednesday 5PM. pic.twitter.com/vKLKB1nyC5

— THUGGERDAILY ひ (@ThuggerDaily) July 8, 2024

Last week, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Rachel Krause ordered the Fulton County District Attorney's Office to respond to the motion, halting the months-long trial. Before Judge Krause could issue a ruling, defendant Deamonte Kendrick filed a motion to disqualify all Fulton County Superior Court judges.

YSL Woody goes LIVE, addressing trolls calling him a rat and talking about his loyalty to his people. Woody remains a witness in the trial of Young Thug and associates. DA Adriane Love is likely taking note of his statements. pic.twitter.com/tVS5oa3Olk

— Mr. Garland Merrick (@GarlandMerrick) July 7, 2024

The trial saw a dramatic turn on June 7, when Kenneth Copeland, known as "Lil Woody," refused to testify, invoking his Fifth Amendment right, despite a plea bargain agreement. Copeland was subsequently found in contempt of court and detained over the weekend. The following Monday, a meeting was held in Judge Glanville's chambers to discuss the violation of the plea bargain, involving Copeland, the judge, and the prosecution.

Young Thug's attorney, Brian Steel, confronted Judge Glanville during a court break after learning about the private meeting. Steel, who did not disclose how he obtained this information, was also found in contempt of court. His sentence of 10 weekends in jail has been stayed by the Georgia Supreme Court pending appeal.

YOUNG THUG TRIAL IS PAUSED UNTIL A DIFFERENT JUDGE DECIDES IF JUDGE GLANVILLE SHOULD BE REMOVED FROM THE CASE

Judge Glanville has changed his mind and transferred Young Thug and Yak Gotti's motions to recuse him to a different judge. pic.twitter.com/EIDI3Vjxe6

— THUGGERDAILY ひ (@ThuggerDaily) July 1, 2024

Judge Glanville has denied the recusal motion filed by Steel and co-counsel Keith Adams. However, Kendrick's attorney pursued relief from the Georgia Supreme Court, which dismissed the motion on procedural grounds, deciding that another judge should hear the recusal motions.

The trial remains stalled as these legal disputes continue to unfold. Young Thug, whose real name is Jeffery Williams, faces racketeering charges along with several co-defendants. The high-profile case has seen numerous legal maneuvers and complications, with the latest delay further prolonging the proceedings.

Flavor Flav Flavors Up Red Lobster

Photo Credit: X/FlavorFlav

Seafood fans have a new reason to say, "Yeah boyee!"

Fans of the legendary Public Enemy hype man can enjoy Flavor Flav’s Faves, an exclusive off-menu meal at Red Lobster. The collaboration comes after Flav showed his love for Red Lobster by ordering the entire menu in an attempt to “save the Cheddar Bay Biscuits” when the chain faced financial difficulties earlier this year.

Yeahhh boyeeeee! Our hype man @flavorflav is helping us make this the most flavorful Crabfest ever 🤤 🦀 pic.twitter.com/Tpza2aRUea

— Red Lobster (@redlobster) June 10, 2024

Red Lobster’s partnership with Flavor Flav, known for his larger-than-life personality and signature clock necklaces, has resulted in a meal featuring a handpicked selection of the chain’s seafood favorites. The meal is available at Red Lobsterrestaurants nationwide and includes Maine Lobster Tail, Snow Crab Legs, Garlic Shrimp Scampi, and Bacon Mac & Cheese, plus a choice of one side. To order, diners just need to ask their server for Flavor Flav’s Faves.

"As a long-time Red Lobster fan, I’m fired up to bring a little bit of my own flavor to fans with a meal featuring my seafood favorites," said Flavor Flav, known for hits like "Fight the Power" and "911 Is a Joke." "You gotta get to Red Lobster and give it a try because this signature meal is hype, boyee!"

Flavor Flav's Faves

Red Lobster’s Chief Experience Officer, Sara Bittorf, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. "When you have someone like Flavor Flav who shows their love for a brand by ordering the entire menu, you know there is a lot more fun to be had. Flavor Flav’s passion for Red Lobster is unmatched, and we’re excited to bring our guests a flavor experience unlike any other."

This collaboration comes just in time for Red Lobster’s Crabfest, featuring new dishes like Creamy Crab Carbonara, Crab & Lobster Duo, and Snow Crab & Crab-Topped Steak. Guests can also indulge in the Crab Your Way option, choosing from wild-caught Snow or Bairdi Crab, with flavor options including Cajun Butter, Roasted Garlic Butter, or Simply Steamed.

For more details on Red Lobster’s menu or to find a nearby location, visit the Red Lobster website.

Usher's Legacy Takes Center Stage at BET Awards

Photo By Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET 

The 2024 BET Awards celebrated Black excellence Sunday night, with a lineup of high-energy performances and a moving tribute to Usher, recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Hosted by Taraji P. Henson at the Peacock Theatre, the event opened with an electrifying performance by Megan Thee Stallion, who emerged from an egg in a nod to her latest album artwork. She ignited the night with "Hiss," followed by "Boa" and "Where Them Girls At."

Drake led the nominations with seven, including album of the year for "For All The Dogs (Scary Hours Edition)." Nicki Minaj followed closely with six, including album of the year for "Pink Friday 2."

Usher's tribute was a standout moment. Introduced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Usher watched as a parade of artists honored his career. Childish Gambino opened with "U Don't Have to Call," followed by Keke Palmer's rendition of "U Make Me Wanna." Summer Walker, Coco Jones, Marsha Ambrosius, Chlöe, and Tinashe contributed with performances of Usher's hits.

L.A. Reid and Babyface, co-founders of Usher's label LaFace Records, presented the award. Overcoming technical difficulties during his acceptance speech, Usher expressed gratitude and humor about his journey and those who supported him, including Jermaine Dupri.

Lauryn Hill revisited tracks from her groundbreaking album "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill," bringing out her son YG Marley for "Survival" and "Praise Jah in the Moonlight." Hill closed her set with Fugees member Wyclef Jean performing "Fu-Gee-La."

The diverse lineup included Ice Spice previewing her upcoming album "Y2K," GloRilla descending from the ceiling for "Yeah Glo!" and "TGIF," and Tyla performing "Jump" with Skillibeng and Gunna.

Victoria Monét, who won video of the year for "On My Mama," performed her hits, while Sexy Redd, Tanner Adell, Doechii, and Shaboozey showcased their talents.

Usher and Victoria Monét emerged as the night's biggest winners. Usher received the Lifetime Achievement Award and best male R&B/pop artist. Monét won video of the year and captivated the audience with her performances.

For a complete list of winners click here. 

Watch: Sisters With Voices Deliver Soul-Stirring Tiny Desk Set

Screengrab: YouTube

In a fitting conclusion to NPR's Black Music Month celebration, the iconic R&B group SWV delivered a captivating Tiny Desk concert. The trio, known for their harmonious vocals and enduring hits, performed at NPR's headquarters, showcasing their timeless appeal and musical prowess.

Formed in New York City, Sisters With Voices (SWV) rose to fame in the 1990s alongside popular girl groups like En Vogue, TLC and Xscape. Their unique blend of R&B, new jack swing, and hip-hop soul earned them multiple platinum records and a dedicated fanbase that remains strong today.

The Tiny Desk setlist was a nostalgic journey through SWV's biggest hits, starting with the crowd-pleasing "I'm So Into You." The audience's enthusiasm was evident, with many singing along even after the song ended. Other fan favorites like "Right Here," "You're the One," and their number-one hit "Weak" further showcased their musical prowess and enduring appeal.

Before performing "You're the One," Lelee Lyons reflected on the group's groundbreaking approach to music in the '90s, noting their willingness to push boundaries. This served as a reminder of SWV's significant impact on the music industry and their continued influence.

SWV is currently co-headlining the Queens of R&B Tour with fellow '90s hitmakers Xscape. The tour, which kicked off with a sold-out show in Concord, California, features a mix of solo and collaborative performances, offering fans a nostalgic and exciting concert experience.

Watch the entire performance below.

SET LIST
"I'm So Into You"
"Right Here (Human Nature Radio Mix)"
"You're the One"
"You're Always on My Mind"
"Rain"
"Weak"
"Anything (Old Skool Radio Version)"

Watch: Flo Milli Debuts New 'Never Lose Me' Verse in Soulful Tiny Desk Set

Screengrab: YouTube

Known for her sharp lyrics and distinctive style, rapper Flo Milli took her talents to NPR's Tiny Desk concert series recently, marking her first performance with a full band. The set, released earlier today, is part of NPR's Black Music Month celebration showcasing the talent and diversity of Black women in music.

The rising star from Mobile, Alabama, opened with an energetic medley of "Conceited" and "Bed Time," setting the stage for an engaging performance. Backed by Atlanta's Band of Brothers and her backing vocalists, the Floettes, Milli showcased her versatility, transitioning smoothly into a soulful rendition of her breakout hit "Beef FloMix." The song, a fan favorite from her 2020 debut mixtape "Ho, Why Is You Here?", proved its enduring appeal in this new arrangement.

The highlight of the set came at the end, when Milli and her band switched to acoustic instruments for a stripped-down version of her single "Never Lose Me." In a special treat for the audience, she debuted a brand new verse exclusive to the Tiny Desk performance.

Milli's Tiny Desk appearance is a significant milestone in her career, which has been on a steady rise since the release of "Ho, Why Is You Here?" She followed up her debut with "You Still Here, Ho?" in 2022 and "Fine Ho, Stay" in 2023, earning a spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and critical acclaim, including recognition from Rolling Stone as "one of the most fun rappers alive."

This Tiny Desk concert, a celebrated platform for showcasing musical talent, underscores Flo Milli's growing influence in the music industry.

Watch the full performance below.

Will Smith's Redemption Song: Hip-Hop Icon Returns to the Mic at BET Awards Sunday

Will Smith, the Oscar-winning actor known for blockbuster films like "Men in Black" and chart-topping rap hits as one half of DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince, is set to make a musical comeback. Smith will perform new material at the 2024 BET Awards, marking his first major musical appearance in several years.

Will Smith will perform at the @BETAwards for the first time ever — debuting a new original song.

He joins a stellar lineup of performers, including Ice Spice, Lauryn Hill and Victoria Monet. Watch the #BETAwards this Sunday on @BET. pic.twitter.com/720eteqKhT

— CBS Mornings (@CBSMornings) June 24, 2024

Smith first rose to fame with DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince, known for lighthearted hits like "Summertime" and "Parents Just Don't Understand," which earned them a Grammy Award for best rap performance. His transition to acting proved equally successful, with iconic roles in "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" and "Ali," earning him critical acclaim and box-office success.

Will Smith reveals to a packed theater crowd that he was watching ‘BAD BOYS: RIDE OR DIE’ with them the entire time. pic.twitter.com/mOovcoxipI

— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) June 8, 2024

Recently, Smith contributed "Light Em Up," a collaboration with reggae artist Sean Paul, to the "Bad Boys for Life" soundtrack. The track, released in early 2024, marks his first new music in nearly half a decade.

Smith's career has not been without controversy. His 2022 Oscars incident, in which he slapped comedian Chris Rock onstage, sparked a media firestorm and led to a temporary break from the spotlight. His return to the BET Awards stage signifies a new chapter, where he aims to reconnect with audiences through his music.

Will Smith joins J Balvin during his #Coachella set for a surprise performance of ‘Men in Black.’ 🕴️ pic.twitter.com/PGLXALc8ub

— People (@people) April 15, 2024

Connie Orlando, BET's executive vice president of specials, music programming and music strategy, said, "From his start as a rapper to 'The Fresh Prince' to being a box-office king, we are honored to welcome him back to grace the BET Awards stage."

The 2024 BET Awards will also feature performances from GloRilla, Ice Spice, Latto, Ms. Lauryn Hill and YG Marley, Muni Long, Sexyy Red, Shaboozey, Tyla and Victoria Monét. Usher will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Taraji P. Henson will host the event for the third time.

The BET Awards will air live on Sunday, June 30, at 8 p.m. Eastern and Pacific times on BET.

Ambush Claims Life of Jacksonville Rapper Julio Foolio at Tampa Hotel

Charles Jones, also known as Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio. (YouTube)

Florida rapper Julio Foolio was fatally shot early Sunday while celebrating his 26th birthday.

Julio Foolio, whose real name was Charles Jones, had told his 1 million Instagram followers he had "the best birthday ever," before the tragedy.

Julio Foolio dissed 23 after he died "Went out to eat on his birthday, four shot three dead in the worst way"

Then got shot and killed the same way... On his Birthday.

Wild.... Karma got no picks. pic.twitter.com/uJiKkRi57L

— Vada Fly (@Vada_Fly) June 23, 2024

Jones had been hosting a pool party at a rented Airbnb in the Tampa area Saturday afternoon. The event grew so large that police responded, shutting it down and forcing the guests to leave. Jones and others later moved to a nearby Holiday Inn.

Charleston White reaction to Julio Foolio dying 😂 pic.twitter.com/oMLKO0Bxhw

— Youngboy Snippets (@YoungboySnippet) June 23, 2024

At approximately 4:40 a.m., gunfire erupted in the hotel's parking lot, killing Jones and wounding three other people, according to the Tampa Police Department. The injured victims are in stable condition. The medical examiner's office has not yet confirmed Jones' identity.

Jones' attorney, Lewis Fuso, described the incident as an ambush. "Mr. Jones was reportedly ambushed in the hotel's parking lot," Fuso said in a statement.

Video surfaces of the car Julio foolio was in when he was shot last night in the parking lot of a holiday inn. pic.twitter.com/vj99CfWio3

— Coki (@Zucoki) June 23, 2024

Jones was known for his association with the Jacksonville-based gang KTA and had survived previous attempts on his life, including a 2021 shooting in Jacksonville, after which he taunted his attackers on Instagram.

The investigation is ongoing, with Tampa police reviewing surveillance footage from the hotel. No suspects have been arrested as of Sunday afternoon.

Rapper Travis Scott Arrested in Miami for Yacht Altercation, Disorderly Intoxication

Miami-Dade Corrections & Rehabilitation Department 

Travis Scott was arrested early Thursday on suspicion of disorderly intoxication and trespassing after an altercation on a boat.

The rapper, whose real name is Jacques Bermon Webster, was detained by police at Miami Beach Marina at around 1:45 a.m., according to official records.

The Miami Beach Police Department reported that officers were called to the marina following reports of people fighting on a yacht. When they arrived, they found the 33-year-old artist shouting at people on the vessel.

Officers stated that they could "sense a strong smell of alcohol" on Scott’s breath when they approached him. After instructing him to leave the dock, Scott complied but continued to shout obscenities at the occupants of the yacht while walking backwards.

Minutes later, Scott returned to the area and attempted to board the yacht again. When officers confronted him, he allegedly disregarded their commands and became "erratic," disturbing local residents.

Following his arrest, Scott admitted to having consumed alcohol, reportedly telling officers, "It's Miami." He was booked into Miami-Dade County Jail at 4:35 a.m. and later released on a $650 bond at 8 a.m., according to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.

The rapper took to X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, after his release, simply posting, "Lol."

Scott, a 10-time Grammy Award nominee, is one of the biggest names in hip-hop. He was previously in a relationship with Kylie Jenner, with whom he shares two children.

His European tour is set to start in the Netherlands on June 28, with upcoming shows in London and Manchester.

In 2021, Scott faced widespread scrutiny after 10 fans died in a crowd surge at his Astroworld festival in Houston, Texas. While he did not face criminal charges over the deaths, he remains involved in civil cases alleging negligence by the festival organizers.

rake Shatters Records, Hits 100 Billion Spotify Streams Amidst Lamar Feud

Drake has made history as the first artist to surpass 100 billion streams on Spotify, solidifying his position as a dominant force in the music industry. The milestone comes during a highly publicized feud with Kendrick Lamar, showcasing Drake's ability to maintain his popularity amid controversy.

The feud ignited when Lamar targeted Drake on Future and Metro Boomin's track "Like That." Drake responded with diss tracks, including "Family Matters" and "The Heart Part 6," along with collaborations like "U My Everything" with Sexyy Red. "Family Matters" alone garnered 75 million streams.

Lamar retaliated with tracks like "Meet The Grahams" and "Not Like Us," intensifying the rivalry. Drake's achievement was confirmed by Chart Data and verified by KWORB, a platform that tracks streams and rankings across various music services.

.@Drake officially becomes the first artist in history to earn a milestone 100 billion streams on Spotify. pic.twitter.com/jFHerUYUnG

— chart data (@chartdata) June 18, 2024

With 78.1 million monthly listeners, Drake surpasses Bad Bunny (78.5 billion) and Eminem (46.8 billion) in total Spotify streams.

Angela Bofill, Renowned Singer of 'This Time I'll Be Sweeter,' Dies at 70

Angela Bofill, the acclaimed R&B and jazz singer known for hits like "This Time I'll Be Sweeter" and "I Try," died Thursday morning at her daughter's home in Vallejo, California. She was 70.

News of her passing was shared on her personal Facebook account in two separate posts.

"On behalf of my dear friend Angie, I am saddened to announce her passing on the morning of June 13," read the first post. It noted that her funeral will be held at St. Dominick's Church in California on June 28 at 1 p.m.

A follow-up post added, "Just to clear up the confusion. On behalf of Shauna Bofill and her husband, Chris Portuguese, we are saddened but must report that Angela's passing yesterday is indeed true. We thank Melba Moore and Maysa for their early condolences. Thanks for your many posts."

The messages were signed by her friend and manager, Rich Engel.

RIP to the amazingly beautiful & talented Angela Bofill, my prayers to her family 🕊️💙🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/9ONoZfs121

— Strictly 4 My X’ers (@Lizzs_Lockeroom) June 15, 2024

Bofill, born Angela Tomasa Bofill on May 2, 1954, in the Brooklyn area of New York City to a Cuban father and a Puerto Rican mother, began her professional career in her teens, recording her first studio album, "Angie," in 1978. The album included the chart single "This Time I'll Be Sweeter" and the jazz composition "Under the Moon and Over the Sky." Her second album, "Angel of the Night," released less than a year later, outperformed its predecessor and included hits like "I Try."

Raised in The Bronx, she grew up listening to Latin music and was also inspired by African-American performers. During her childhood, weekends were spent studying classical music and singing in New York City's All City Chorus, which featured the best singers from high schools across the five boroughs.

She attended Hunter College High School, graduating in 1972, and later studied at the Manhattan School of Music, earning a Bachelor of Music degree in 1976.

Sad to hear about the passing of Angela Bofill … she is most known for singles such as, "This Time I'll Be Sweeter", "Angel of the Night", and "I Try". Bofill's career spanned over four decades. Thank you for the wonderful music. Rest now Angela. pic.twitter.com/6JiDjNlYjy

— Loni Love (@LoniLove) June 15, 2024

Bofill faced significant health challenges due to two strokes in 2006 and 2007. She took a five-year hiatus from performing to concentrate on her recovery, making a triumphant return to the stage in 2011.

In a December 2020 interview with Essence magazine, Bofill laughed off rumors of her death that had circulated online months earlier. "Friends calling up, ‘Oh my God, am I talking to the ghost of Angela Bofill?’ Thank God it’s not true," she said.

Reflecting on the tributes that poured in during that time, she expressed gratitude. "You always must welcome love," she said. "I figured, ‘They really like me!’ [I’m just] laughing at it, really. It’s better to have a sense of humor.”

Angela Bofil's reaction to Michael Jackson kissing her is so iconic. He LITERALLY took her breath away 😭pic.twitter.com/cuQZCKkEPZ https://t.co/HIKu2eUVq4

— 𝓥𝓮𝓻𝓸𝓷𝓲𝓬𝓪💫 | MJ fan (@iamveronica777) June 16, 2023

“I feel happy performing again,” she told The Denver Post in 2011. “I need the crowd. It's in my blood to entertain. Any time a crowd comes to see me, I’m surprised. I don't sing anymore, yet people still come. Wow. Impressed.”

In the same interview, Engel recounted Bofill’s career during the 1970s and '80s, highlighting her exceptional vocal range: "She had a rare voice. She could hit low notes and could hit high C. Her pitch was perfect.”

Despite complications from her strokes, Bofill maintained a positive outlook. “But my voice no sing. I'd rather not sing. Awful. It cracks me up! Funny! I laugh about it. But very grateful — still living. Never take things for granted,” she said.

Throughout her career, Bofill released numerous albums and hit singles, including "Something About You," "I'm on Your Side," "Let Me Be the One," and "I Just Wanna Stop." She was one of the first Latina singers to find success in the R&B and jazz markets.

In 2023, Bofill was inducted into the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame, a testament to her enduring influence and contribution to music.

Timbaland Inducted into Songwriters Hall of Fame, SZA Honored with Starlight Award

The 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony Thursday night was a celebration of musical legends and contemporary hitmakers, with Grammy Award-winning producer and songwriter Timbaland and R&B sensation SZA taking center stage.

Timbaland was honored for his decades-long influence on hip-hop and R&B. The Virginia native's extensive catalog includes chart-topping hits like Missy Elliott's "Get Ur Freak On," Jay-Z's "Big Pimpin'" and Justin Timberlake's "Cry Me a River."

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A post shared by Justin Timberlake (@justintimberlake)

Elliott introduced Timbaland, praising his transformative influence on the music industry.

During his acceptance speech, Timbaland acknowledged his late collaborator and friend Aaliyah, stating, "I want to thank baby girl, rest in peace, I hope you're watching." His tribute was followed by a medley of his greatest hits.

SZA was awarded the Hal David Starlight Award, recognizing young songwriters with significant impact. In her acceptance speech, she emphasized the personal significance of songwriting, stating, "Writing is where I felt like a person, that I had value." Receiving the Hal David Starlight Award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame, she added, "validates my entire career."

SZA says receiving the Hal David Starlight Award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame "validates my entire career” pic.twitter.com/e5MEXo5V70

— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) June 14, 2024

The evening also featured the induction of alternative rock icons R.E.M., with all four original members reuniting for a rare performance of their hit "Losing My Religion." Nashville songwriter Hillary Lindsey and Steely Dan co-founder Donald Fagen were also inducted, with Fagen paying tribute to his late partner Walter Becker. Jason Isbell performed a cover of R.E.M.'s "It's the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)."

After Diane Warren earned the Johnny Mercer Award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame, El DeBarge performed his band’s 1985 groove “Rhythm of the Night,” one of many hits Warren wrote pic.twitter.com/zl3VgzackL

— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) June 14, 2024

"Footloose" and "Fame" lyricist Dean Pitchford was also inducted, with the Bacon Brothers and Denise Williams performing his iconic hits. The ceremony culminated with a tribute to Diane Warren, who received the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award, and a performance celebrating the 40th anniversary of her hit song "Rhythm of the Night."

2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Inductees:
• Timothy "Timbaland" Mosley
• Hillary Lindsey
• R.E.M. (Bill Berry, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, Michael Stipe)
• Steely Dan (Donald Fagen)
• Dean Pitchford
Special Award Recipients:
• SZA (Hal David Starlight Award)
• Diane Warren (Johnny Mercer Award)