Monday, March 4, 2024
Diddy Implicated in Studio Shooting, Harassment by Producer
The lawsuit also outlines a shooting incident at Los Angeles' Chalice Recording Studio on Sept. 12, 2022, involving Combs, his son Justin, and Justin's friend identified as "G." However, conflicting accounts from the Los Angeles Police Department and Combs' attorney, Shawn Holley, challenge Jones' version. The LAPD asserts the shooting occurred some distance from the studio, while Chalice Recording Studio claims it happened half a block away during a robbery attempt.
Jones disputes these claims, alleging a cover-up. The amended lawsuit includes messages from Chalice and media reports to bolster his narrative. It further alleges a "RICO enterprise" and a "sex trafficking venture," alongside accusations of hidden cameras in Combs' homes used to record celebrities, politicians, and executives without their consent.
Combs' legal team vehemently denies these allegations, labeling them "absurd" and threatening legal reprisal.
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
Shocking Betrayal: Jam Master Jay Murdered by Childhood Friend and Godson, Jury Finds
Jam Master Jay |
Ronald Washington, Jay’s childhood friend, and Karl Jordan Jr., Jay’s godson, were convicted of murder in the course of narcotics trafficking and firearm-related murder. The courtroom erupted in chaos as the verdict was announced. Washington, visibly agitated, proclaimed, “Y’all just killed some innocent people. Get me outta here!” before being escorted out. Jordan expressed love and gratitude to his supporters.
The federal jury reached its unanimous decision after days of tense deliberations. A juror was replaced last week, leading to renewed deliberations on Monday.
Jam Master Jay, born Jason Mizell, was fatally shot at a recording studio in Jamaica, Queens, on October 30, 2002. The murder sent shockwaves through the music community, and the case remained unsolved for years.
In August 2020, the US attorney for the Eastern District of New York unveiled a criminal indictment implicating Washington and Jordan. They were accused of killing Jam Master Jay in retaliation for a drug-related dispute.
The trial unveiled gripping testimonies, notably from witness Uriel Rincon, who was present at the recording studio on the fateful night. Rincon implicated Washington and Jordan as armed intruders, alleging that Jordan delivered the fatal shot to Jay's head.
Assistant US Attorney Artie McConnell underscored the trial's essence, stating, “It’s about greed. It’s about money. It’s about jealousy,” emphasizing the culpability of Washington and Jordan in the chilling crime.
In a dramatic twist, defense attorneys contended that Jay Bryant, another defendant, was the actual perpetrator. They argued that Bryant's DNA found at the crime scene and his presence on surveillance footage pointed to his involvement.
“This is an attempt to make a mockery of the judicial system. They know who killed Jam Master Jay. They know it was Jay Bryant,” said Susan Kellman, Washington’s attorney.
With the impending trial of Bryant, who has pleaded not guilty, the case promises to continue unfolding, shedding light on the shadows of one of hip-hop's darkest chapters.
Thursday, February 22, 2024
Wendy Williams Battles Aphasia and Frontotemporal Dementia
WBLS, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons |
"As Wendy's fans are aware, in the past she has been open with the public about her medical struggles with Graves' Disease and Lymphedema as well as other significant challenges related to her health," the press release stated.
Williams, known for her candidness about her health struggles, has previously disclosed battles with Graves’ Disease and Lymphedema. However, concerns arose as she exhibited difficulties processing information, experiencing word loss, erratic behavior and struggles with financial transactions.
"In 2023, after undergoing a battery of medical tests, Wendy was officially diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD)," the press release confirmed.
According to her representatives, Williams received her diagnoses in 2023 from Weill Cornell Medicine. Progressive aphasia affects communication and language comprehension, while frontotemporal dementia impacts behavior and cognitive functions, posing significant challenges in Williams' life.
"The decision to share this news was difficult and made after careful consideration, not only to advocate for understanding and compassion for Wendy, but to raise awareness about aphasia and frontotemporal dementia and support the thousands of others facing similar circumstances," the press release emphasized.
The decision to disclose this information was not taken lightly, with Williams’ care team emphasizing the importance of advocating for understanding and compassion, as well as raising awareness about aphasia and frontotemporal dementia. The hope is to combat stigma and misconceptions surrounding these conditions, offering support to others facing similar circumstances.
Currently under a court-ordered guardianship, Williams remains actively involved in her public narrative. A Lifetime documentary, produced by Williams and her family, is scheduled for release this weekend, providing further insight into her journey.
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
Rapper Kodak Black to be Released From Federal Custody on Time Served
Kodak Black |
The ruling comes in the wake of recent developments in Broward County court, where Circuit Judge Barbara Duffy dismissed a drug possession case against Kodak Black. Attorney Bradford Cohen, representing the rapper, presented evidence of a 2022 oxycodone prescription from a pharmacy, attributing the inconsistencies in court-ordered drug tests to rehab and a warrant.
According to his defense, Kodak Black’s use of oxycodone was a result of pain management following a prison assault in 2020 and a gunshot wound to the leg in 2022, incurred during an incident at a restaurant afterparty hosted by Justin Bieber in California.
Despite his legal battles, Kodak Black remains active in the music scene. His latest music video, “Shampoo,” released on YouTube earlier this week, quickly climbed the charts, ranking in the top 16 globally within days of its release. In the song, the rapper references substance use with lyrics like “I’ve been smoking... I’ve been drinking... whipping up a dope cake.”
This isn't the first time Kodak Black has faced legal challenges. His history includes multiple arrests and convictions dating back several years:
In 2015, he faced charges in Broward County for assault, robbery, kidnapping, false imprisonment, driving with a suspended license and possession of marijuana. He also faced charges in St. Lucie County for marijuana possession and drug paraphernalia.
In 2016, he was charged in Florence, South Carolina, for sexual battery, as well as for possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, possession of marijuana, and fleeing from law enforcement.
In 2018, he faced charges in Broward for grand theft of a firearm, possession of marijuana, child neglect, two counts of possession of a weapon by a felon and two counts of probation violation.
In 2019, he faced federal weapons charges related to a U.S.-Canada border search and a purchase in Miami-Dade.
In 2022, he was charged in Broward for trespassing in Pompano Beach and a drug possession charge related to a Florida Highway Patrol search.
Kodak Black's legal struggles persisted even after former President Donald Trump commuted his three-year prison sentence in 2021 for federal weapons charges. Despite the setbacks, his music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, reaffirming his status as a prominent figure in the hip-hop community.
Tuesday, February 20, 2024
Beyonce's 'Texas Hold 'Em' Grabs No. 1 on Country Chart
Beyoncé has made a historical debut on Billboard's streaming, airplay, and sales-based Hot Country Songs chart with her latest singles. The chart, dated February 24, showcases Beyoncé's "Texas Hold ‘Em" at No. 1 and "16 Carriages" at No. 9, marking her first entries on this chart.
These songs, released on February 11, made a splash across various charts, including the all-genre Billboard Hot 100, where they debuted at Nos. 2 and 38, respectively. The announcement of their release came during a Verizon commercial aired during CBS’ Super Bowl LVIII broadcast, building anticipation for Beyoncé's upcoming album, expected to be titled "Act II" and slated for release on March 29, following her 2022 "Renaissance" LP.
"Texas Hold ‘Em" garnered significant attention, drawing 19.2 million official streams, 4.8 million in all-format airplay audience, and selling 39,000 units in the U.S. through February 15, according to Luminate. Meanwhile, "16 Carriages" arrived with 10.3 million streams, 90,000 in radio reach, and 14,000 units sold.
Beyoncé's dominance extends beyond the Hot Country Songs chart. Her reign as a solo artist spans across seven of Billboard’s multimetric song charts, including the Hot 100, Hot Dance/Electronic Songs, Hot Gospel Songs, Hot Latin Songs, Hot R&B Songs, and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs. This achievement solidifies her status as the only artist to achieve such a feat.
"Texas Hold ‘Em" is the first song by a solo Black female artist to chart on country radio since Micky Guyton's 2016 hit "Heartbreak Song" reached No. 45.
Bing Worthington, Brother of Snoop Dogg, Passes Away at 44
Photo Credit: Instagram/Snoopdogg |
Snoop Dogg, 52, whose birth name is Calvin Broadus Jr., shared the heartbreaking news through a series of Instagram tributes, expressing profound grief and reminiscing on cherished moments with his late brother.
In one post, Snoop Dogg shared a photo featuring himself, Worthington, and their nephew Rollin Carter, with a caption adorned with emotive emojis.
Amidst the somber reflections, Snoop Dogg shared a family portrait brimming with smiles and joy, bidding farewell to his brother with a heartfelt message: "Until we meet again ☹️😔😢🙏🏾🕊️."
Worthington played a pivotal role in Snoop Dogg’s professional endeavors, contributing to various aspects of his brother's business ventures. From collaborating on the launch of Snoop's skateboard brand to pivotal roles in documentary productions and label mergers, Bing's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication were indispensable.
Worthington served as his brother's tour manager and managed the Snoop Dogg Skateboards brand. He co-founded Dogg Records, a Canadian record label, and served as the executive producer for the documentary Bigg Snoop Dogg: Raw ‘N Uncut Vol. 1, released in 2003.
He also briefly ventured into music himself, manifesting his passion for music in the release of the album Liquid Cocaine with his rap group, Lifestyle.
The family's mourning unfolds amidst other recent hardships, including health challenges faced by Snoop Dogg’s daughter Cori Broadus, who battles lupus and recently suffered a stroke. These difficulties compound the grief of the passing of their beloved mother, Beverly Tate, in October 2021.
Monday, February 19, 2024
Matriarch of Motown Icons: Etterlene DeBarge Dies at 88
Born Etterlene Abney in 1935, DeBarge's musical journey began in gospel choirs, where her powerful vocals captivated audiences. Married to Robert DeBarge in 1953, she raised 10 children, fostering a household steeped in music. Seven of their children went on to form the iconic Motown group DeBarge, earning multiple Grammy nominations with hits like "Rhythm of the Night" and "Time Will Reveal."
Yet, DeBarge's musical legacy extended beyond her children. She released two solo gospel albums, "Back on Track" (1991) and "A City Called Heaven" (2005), showcasing her enduring faith and musical passion
Thursday, February 15, 2024
Soul Icon Frankie Beverly Announces 'I Wanna Thank You' Farewell Tour
The tour commences on March 22nd, 2024, at Atlanta's State Farm Arena, a city with deep roots in the band's history. Beverly's musical journey began earlier, with The Butlers and Raw Soul in the 1970s. A pivotal move to San Francisco in 1971, encouraged by the legendary Marvin Gaye, led to the formation of Maze and their subsequent rise to prominence.
Their self-titled debut album in 1976 marked a turning point, paving the way for a string of commercially successful albums that solidified their place in soul music history. Tracks like "Back In Stride," an anthem of perseverance, and the upbeat "Happy Feelin's" became enduring favorites among listeners. Notably, the universally acclaimed "Before I Let Go," with its poignant exploration of love and loss, propelled them to even greater recognition.
Beyond the studio, Maze was celebrated for their electrifying live performances. Beverly's passionate vocals, coupled with the band's tight grooves and energetic stage presence, created a memorable experience for audiences across generations. Their concerts transcended mere entertainment, serving as celebrations of life, love, and community, drawing crowds with their heartfelt messages and undeniable presence.
While this marks the end of an era with Beverly at the helm, the music of Maze lives on. "Maze Honoring Frankie Beverly," led by vocalist Tony Lindsay, will carry the torch forward, ensuring the band's legacy of soulful excellence endures. Fans eager to witness this final chapter can find tour details and information on the official website.
Tour Schedule:
March 22, 2024: State Farm Arena, Atlanta GA
April 6, 2024: Mobile County Fairgrounds, Mobile AL
April 13, 2024: Toyota Arena, Houston TX
April 27, 2024: United Center, Chicago IL
May 12, 2024: KIA Forum, Los Angeles CA
July 6, 2024: Dell Center, Philadelphia PA
Swifties vs. Kanye: Battle for Billboard Supremacy Heats Up
The discord surfaced following a declaration of a "Swiftie emergency" on social media, urging fellow fans to stream Beyoncé's "Texas Hold 'Em" to forestall West's album from chart supremacy. This development transpired subsequent to West's Instagram story containing critical remarks about Swift.
Reacting promptly, the 46-year-old West captured a screenshot of the fan's tweet, casting accusations at Swift's fan base for orchestrating chart manipulation tactics to undercut his artistic endeavors.
"When I said that I’m the new Jesus b—ch, I wasn’t even thinking about Taylor Swift," West clarified on Instagram, seeking to elucidate his prior remarks. "That was a whole line before, but I appreciate the free promo."
In a rare moment of candor, West acknowledged grappling with adversities over the past year, including being ostracized by hotels, corporate affiliations and even eateries. Despite these challenges, he underscored the uplifting and triumphant essence of "Vultures 1."
"This album is actually super positive and fun, it's all about triumphant," he emphasized, spotlighting the resilience embedded within the album's thematic framework.
Moreover, West invoked his previous solidarity with Swift during her public dispute with music manager Scooter Braun.
"Remember I was on Taylor's side when Scooter bought her masters behind her back," he reiterated. "She and Beyoncé are big inspirations to all musicians; we always say how both sell out tours and movies."
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
Former Def Jam Executive Files Lawsuit Accusing Russell Simmons of Rape
David Shankbone, via Wikimedia Commons |
Music mogul Russell Simmons faces new rape allegations in a lawsuit filed Tuesday in New York federal court by a former Def Jam Recordings executive, who remains anonymous. The woman alleges Simmons sexually assaulted her at his New York apartment in the 1990s.
According to the lawsuit, the woman was a senior music executive and video producer at Def Jam when Simmons invited her to his apartment to review a video. However, the encounter allegedly turned violent, with Simmons engaging in nonconsensual sexual activity, as detailed in the lawsuit.
Simmons, co-founder of Def Jam Recordings in 1984, has not responded to the specific allegations in this lawsuit. He has previously denied all accusations of sexual misconduct, which have emerged in recent years, calling them "untrue" and "without merit."
This latest lawsuit comes amid Simmons' involvement in another legal case. Music executive L.A. Reid's defense team in a separate sexual assault lawsuit filed by former Arista Records and Def Jam executive Drew Dixon is seeking documents related to Dixon's accusations against Simmons. Dixon alleges Simmons raped her in 1995 and that Reid harassed her.
The lawsuit against Simmons is filed under New York's Adult Survivors Act, a recent law allowing survivors of sexual misconduct to file claims within a one-year window, regardless of the statute of limitations. This act has opened the door for several lawsuits against high-profile figures facing historical allegations, including Sean Combs, Jimmy Iovine, Neil Portnow, Cuba Gooding Jr., and Jamie Foxx, among others.
Usher Ties the Knot: R&B Star Marries Longtime Girlfriend Jennifer Goicoechea
News of their marriage emerged after the Super Bowl performance and was confirmed by a marriage certificate obtained by CNN.
"We can confirm that Usher and Jennifer Goicoechea took the next step in their relationship and did get married on Sunday night in Las Vegas surrounded by close friends and family," a spokesperson for Usher said in a statement. "The couple look forward to continuing to raise their children together and express their gratitude for the well-wishes received."Usher married his longtime girlfriend in Downtown Las Vegas yesterday after the Super Bowl pic.twitter.com/pw6C4RxH4z
— Las Vegas Locally 🌴 (@LasVegasLocally) February 13, 2024
Usher and Goicoechea share two children: daughter Sovereign Bo, born in 2020, and son Sire Castrello, born in 2021. Usher also has two sons, Usher V and Naviyd Ely, from his previous marriage to Tameka Foster.
The intimate ceremony took place at Vegas Weddings' Terrace Gazebo following Usher's thirteen-minute-long Super Bowl performance, where he delivered a crowd-pleasing medley of his greatest hits.
Usher Full Halftime Show Performance At The Super Bowl #SuperBowl #Usher #UsherBowl pic.twitter.com/skpqVTPoY4
— Miguel Austin (@miguelitopty) February 12, 2024
Usher's mother, Jonetta Patton, served as their witness during the ceremony, with a select group of close friends and family members in attendance.
Later that night, the newlyweds celebrated at Usher's album release party for "Coming Home." Jennifer wore a chic all-white pantsuit, while Usher sported a white floor-length fur coat over a black tuxedo, with a gold band now adorning his left ring finger.
Friday, February 9, 2024
R&B Legend Henry Fambrough of The Spinners Dies at 85
peacefully at his home in northern Virginia on Wednesday. He was 85.
Fambrough's passing was confirmed by group spokesperson Tanisha Jackson, who stated he died of natural causes.
The Spinners, known for hits like "It's a Shame," "Could It Be I'm Falling in Love" and "The Rubberband Man," were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November 2023. Fambrough, along with Billy Henderson, Pervis Jackson, Bobby Smith, Philippé Wynne and John Edwards, were honored as inductees.
The group announced Fambrough's death on their Instagram account, calling him a "founding member of the legendary R&B/Soul vocal group" and praising his "euphonious baritone voice" and captivating stage presence.(1/3) In Memoriam: Henry Fambrough was the last surviving founding member of 2023 Inductees the Spinners, one of the most beloved R&B vocal groups in the world. Initially signed to Motown as "The Detroit Spinners," the group's lush, soulful harmonies & magnetic stage presence... pic.twitter.com/BxbzZtNhQl
— Rock Hall (@rockhall) February 8, 2024
Fambrough, an Army veteran known for his signature handlebar mustache, was a key member of The Spinners during their classic hitmaking era, contributing to songs like "Ghetto Child," "I Don't Want To Lose You" and "Just As Long As We Have Love." He was the last surviving member of the group's original lineup, which also included Bobbie Smith, Billy Henderson, Pervis Jackson and Philippe Wynne.
The Spinners achieved widespread success, earning numerous accolades throughout their career, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and their recent induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Fambrough is survived by his wife of 52 years, Norma, daughter Heather Williams, son-in-law Ronald, sister Martha, and other extended family and friends.
Thursday, February 8, 2024
Lee & Washington Reunite for Kurosawa Remake: 'High and Low' Gets American Treatment
Apple will co-finance the project, which will be theatrically released by independent film studio A24 before streaming on Apple TV+. This marks Lee and Washington's fifth collaboration, following their critically acclaimed work on films such as "Mo' Better Blues," "Malcolm X," "He Got Game" and "Inside Man" (2006).
Kurosawa's "High and Low" is a suspenseful crime thriller with social commentary woven into its narrative. Based on Ed McBain's novel "King's Ransom," the film follows a wealthy industrialist whose life is thrown into chaos when his chauffeur's son is mistakenly kidnapped for ransom. As the tension mounts, Kurosawa explores themes of class disparity and human resilience.The fifth Denzel and Spike joint.
— Apple Original Films (@AppleFilms) February 8, 2024
High and Low, a reinterpretation of Akira Kurosawa's classic.
Filming starts in March.
Lee, known for his bold storytelling and unflinching social commentary, has directed numerous critically acclaimed films throughout his career. His diverse body of work includes groundbreaking titles like "Do the Right Thing" and the Denzel Washington-led biopic "Malcolm X."Neat-o: It's a Spike Lee-Denzel Washington reunion as the duo, which haven't worked since 2006's INSIDE MAN, team up to make an English-language adaptation of Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 crime thriller HIGH AND LOW.https://t.co/CMBJP4yu1l
— Borys Kit (@Borys_Kit) February 8, 2024
Washington will once again take the lead in Lee's adaptation, which features a screenplay co-written by Lee and Alan Fox. Washington and producer Todd Black have previously collaborated on films like "Fences," "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" and "The Equalizer" franchise. Production is set to begin in March.
A24, a film studio known for its independent and acclaimed productions, will handle the theatrical distribution of the film before its global debut on Apple TV+. "High and Low" is being developed and produced by A24, Escape Artists and Mandalay Pictures. Black and Jason Michael Berman are producing, with Lee serving as executive producer through his 40 Acres And A Mule Filmworks. Peter Guber, along with others, will also serve as executive producer.
Watch: Super Bowl Trailer Has Ludacris, Lil Jon Hunting for Usher in Vegas
Their journey takes them past iconic landmarks like Caesars Palace, where they encounter celebrities including Anderson .Paak, J Balvin, Wesley Snipes and the Blue Man Group. A surprise appearance by Andre 3000 as "Zoltar 3000" fuels speculation about potential collaborations during the live performance.
The trailer concludes with Usher performing for a bridal party at the Caesars Palace Fountain, showcasing his signature moves and hits like "Climax," "Nice & Slow" and "Bad Girl." The clip ends with Snipes comedically channeling Omarion's iconic dance moves to "Standing Next to You."
Usher's halftime show promises to be a monumental celebration of his 30-year career. With over 80 million records sold and hits like "8701" and "Confessions," his impact on the music industry is significant.
Anticipation is further heightened by the release of his ninth studio album, "Coming Home," two days before the Super Bowl. Presented by Apple Music as part of a multi-year partnership with the NFL and Roc Nation, the halftime show is expected to be a major draw for music fans worldwide. Super Bowl LVIII airs live on CBS February 11th.
Watch the trailer below.
Wednesday, February 7, 2024
Drake at Center of Online Storm as Explicit Video Sparks Speculation
On Tuesday, an account named @Campusnightchat on X (formerly known as Twitter) shared footage of a light-skinned man recording himself, sitting in a suggestive pose, holding his penis while his face remains obscured by a cellphone. The video has since been deleted.
Drake responds to Adin Ross after he left a voice message about his leaked video... 💀 pic.twitter.com/M9nH9xYzDa
— Liutauras (@Liutauras_) February 6, 2024
The identity of the individual remains unconfirmed, partly due to the obscured face, but the possibility of Drake's involvement has ignited social media. Online personality Adin Ross recently addressed the viral footage during a livestream, playfully acknowledging its potential significance.
"God damn. You’re blessed with your voice. You’re blessed with performing. You’re blessed to be you, you’re blessed to be number one. But you’re also blessed to have a fucking missile!" exclaimed Ross, reflecting on the video's content.
Here’s Drake New leak Video #drakevideo pic.twitter.com/lcbaHEq8wU
— Vishwajit Patil (@_VishwajitPatil) February 7, 2024
Known for his past interactions with Drake, Ross shared snippets of a text exchange with the artist, revealing Drake's apparent nonchalant response to the commotion. "He just texted me, he put like eight laughing emojis," Ross disclosed, providing insight into Drake's reaction.
Adding to the intrigue, Ross suggested that Drake humorously hinted at incorporating the incident into his artistic endeavors. "He said, ‘This might be my next album intro,'" Ross read aloud, indicating Drake's playful disposition towards the situation.
While the video's authenticity remains in question, speculation mounts that the ambient sounds in the background hint at the scene unfolding aboard Drake's private jet, further fueling speculation.
The footage sparked widespread discussion on social media. Notably, plastic surgeon and internet personality Michael “Dr. Miami” Salzhauer received numerous inquiries about male-centered cosmetic procedures.
Yes, Penis Enlargement surgery exists.
— Dr. Miami (@TheRealDrMiami) February 6, 2024
“Yes, penis enlargement surgery exists,” Dr. Miami posted on X. Later, he clarified, “It’s not called a DDL but everyone kept tagging me for some reason so I answered did not know what was going on [loudly crying face emoji].”
Dr. Miami emphasized that his response, as a medical professional, was not intended to be “shady” toward anyone. However, many commenters assumed Drake inspired his tweet.
Did drake and dr Miami used to date? Why dr Miami hate him so much
— NZA (@Deplatformnaya) February 7, 2024
Monday, February 5, 2024
Megan Thee Stallion Makes History, Retains Masters in WMG Distribution Deal
Courtesy Photo: From L-R: Rayna Bass (Co-President, 300 Entertainment), Desiree Perez (CEO, Roc Nation), Megan Thee Stallion and Max Lousada (CEO, Recorded Music, WMG). |
Setting this arrangement apart is Megan's retention of full ownership of her masters and publishing rights, a rarity in major label agreements. She exercises complete creative control over her music and holds the option to integrate artists from her imprint into the WMG ecosystem, fostering emerging talent.
"I'm really focused on building an empire and growing as an entrepreneur, so I'm proud to take this next step in my journey and work with Max Lousada and the entire Warner Music Group team in this new capacity. I know we're going to create history together," said Megan.
WMG, acknowledging Megan's artistic influence and entrepreneurial acumen, recognizes her as more than just a superstar. "Meg is not just a superstar," emphasized Max Lousada, CEO of WMG Recorded Music. "She's an artistic force and a mogul in the making – authentic and unapologetic in defining her own unique place in the cultural landscape. So many relate to her remarkable story and have witnessed her come into her power on her own terms. At Warner, we're creating an environment where original talents can explore both their creativity and entrepreneurialism, while building long-term careers."
Desiree Perez, CEO of Roc Nation, views this deal as a transformative force. "Megan continues to be a trailblazer. This new chapter with Warner Music Group will shift the landscape in the music industry and empower other independent artists to follow in her footsteps and claim their power. It's also a testament to Max's ability to reimagine the relationships that major music companies can engage in with independent artists."
The announcement comes on the heels of the remarkable success of Megan's latest single, "Hiss," which soared to the top of charts worldwide upon its release. This follows her critically acclaimed solo release, "Cobra," in November 2023, marking her second under Hot Girl Productions.
Monét Crowned Best New Artist, Killer Mike Makes Grammy History
Victoria Monét wins the award Best New Artist at the 2024 #Grammys pic.twitter.com/2TNbTnj2iu
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) February 5, 2024
I'd love to know why the LAPD thought putting Killer Mike in cuffs at the Grammy's was necessary pic.twitter.com/3W5SJuFXwo
— TizzyEnt (@TizzyEnt) February 5, 2024
Janelle Monáe - The Age of Pleasure
Jon Batiste - World Music Radio
Lana Del Rey - Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd
Miley Cyrus - Endless Summer Vacation
Olivia Rodrigo - Guts
SZA - SOS
WINNER: Taylor Swift - Midnights
Record of the Year
Boygenius - Not Strong Enough
Jon Batiste - Worship
WINNER: Miley Cyrus - Flowers
SZA - Kill Bill
Taylor Swift - Anti-Hero
Victoria Monét - On My Mama
Gracie Abrams
Fred Again..
Ice Spice
Jelly Roll
Noah Kahan
WINNER: Victoria Monét
The War and Treaty
Dua Lipa - Dance the Night (From Barbie the Album)
Jon Batiste - Butterfly
Lana Del Rey - A&W
Miley Cyrus - Flowers
Olivia Rodrigo - Vampire
SZA - Kill Bill
Taylor Swift - Anti-Hero
Kelly Clarkson - Chemistry
Miley Cyrus - Endless Summer Vacation
Olivia Rodrigo - Guts
WINNER: Taylor Swift - Midnights
Halle - Angel
Robert Glasper Featuring Sir & Alex Isley - Back to Love
WINNER: SZA - Snooze
Victoria Monét - On My Mama
Best Country Album
Kelsea Ballerini - Rolling Up the Welcome Mat
WINNER: Lainey Wilson - Bell Bottom Country
Tyler Childers - Rustin’ in the Rain
Zach Bryan - Zach Bryan
Best Música Urbana AlbumWINNER: Karol G - Mañana Será Bonito
Rauw Alejandro - Saturno
Tainy - Data
Best Pop Solo
Doja Cat - Paint the Town Red
WINNER: Miley Cyrus - Flowers
Olivia Rodrigo - Vampire
Taylor Swift - Anti-Hero
Terrace Martin and James Fauntleroy - Nova
Janelle Monáe - The Age of Pleasure
WINNER: SZA - *