Surveillance video from 2016, obtained by CNN, shows Sean "Diddy" Combs chasing down his then-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, in a hotel hallway. The footage, captured from multiple angles on March 5, 2016, appears to corroborate claims detailed in a now-settled federal lawsuit filed by Ventura in November.
This is the video where Diddy is seen physically assaulting Cassie Ventura in 2016 surveillance video obtained by CNN.
In the video, Combs is seen grabbing Ventura by the neck, throwing her to the floor, and kicking her while holding a towel around his waist. Ventura attempts to collect her belongings as Combs shoves her and throws objects in her direction.
Ventura has not commented on the video. Her attorney, Douglas H. Wigdor, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, "The video confirms the disturbing allegations Ms. Ventura made against Mr. Combs."
CNN has reached out to representatives for Combs and InterContinental Hotels for comment, but they have not responded. Combs has previously denied Ventura's allegations.
This incident is part of a broader legal dispute between Combs and Ventura, which includes allegations of sexual assault and other abuses. Despite denying the allegations, Combs settled the lawsuit shortly after it was filed.
Combs continues to face multiple civil lawsuits accusing him of sexual misconduct and other illegal activities. In April, authorities conducted searches of his homes in California and Florida as part of a federal investigation into these allegations.
Brendan Paul, a 25-year-old traveling companion of music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs, has avoided jail time by entering a drug diversion program after his arrest on cocaine possession charges, according to a spokesperson for the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office.
The former Syracuse basketball player was arrested on March 25 at Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport, the same day federal agents raided Combs' residences in Miami and Los Angeles as part of a separate sex trafficking investigation. Combs' attorney has called the raids an "excessive show of force."
It remains unclear if Paul's arrest is connected to the investigation into Combs.
🗣️Brendan Paul, P. Diddy’s Alleged “Drug Mule” Arrested…Will he FLIP on Diddy…
I sat down with Law & Crime’s Sierra Gillespie to break down what we know about Brendan Paul, a man accused of being P. Diddy’s “drug mule.” Brendan Paul, 25 y/o, music producer, was arrested at… pic.twitter.com/oKCtqoFxON
Authorities reportedly found cocaine and marijuana candy in Paul's luggage during a search at the airport, leading to his arrest. Paul initially pleaded not guilty, but later reached a plea deal.
"Brendan accepted the prosecutor's offer to permit his entry into the diversion program which, after successful completion, the case against him will be dismissed in its entirety," Paul's attorney, Brian Bieber, said in a statement to Rolling Stone.
The diversion program typically lasts around six months and includes substance abuse counseling. If Paul completes the program successfully, the charges will be dropped.
Combs has denied all allegations against him and has not been charged with any crimes.
Internet personality DJ Akademiks, whose legal name is Livingston Allen, faces accusations of rape and defamation in a newly filed lawsuit in Essex County, New Jersey.
Fauziya Abashe alleges she was invited to Allen's home in July 2022, expecting to be alone with him. Upon arrival, she encountered two unidentified men. The lawsuit claims Allen told these men Abashe was receptive to sex, without her knowledge.
Abashe refused a drink offered by one of the men, identified as an Allen employee. The employee, allegedly stating he was "in charge," insisted she have a drink he prepared.
Later, the employee pressured Abashe to wait for Allen in the hot tub. She agreed, believing the men would leave after setting it up. However, the lawsuit alleges both men forced her to consume alcohol and then assaulted her.
Abashe claims she woke up to Allen assaulting her around 4 a.m. The lawsuit alleges Allen later showed her partial surveillance footage of the assault and refused to provide the full recording.
Abashe contacted Allen later, reporting injuries sustained during the encounter. Text messages included in the lawsuit show she contacted police, who facilitated a recorded call where she questioned Allen. The lawsuit alleges Allen recounted details of the assault during the call.
Allen addressed the lawsuit on social media, saying, "I have no comment beyond what I've previously stated. This will be decided in court. I'm confident in my innocence."
West Coast rap icon Snoop Dogg is gearing up to share his rhymes and coaching prowess on season 26 of "The Voice." The announcement comes as the hit show concludes its historic 25th season with a two-part finale on May 20 and 21.
Though this is his first official coaching role, Snoop Dogg is familiar with "The Voice" stage, having served as a mega mentor during season 20. His musical career is a powerhouse, with his debut album "Doggystyle" launching him to stardom and earning him 17 Grammy nominations and millions of albums sold domestically.
Snoop Dogg expressed his excitement about joining the coaching panel during NBC's upfront presentation at Radio City Music Hall on Monday. "Since Reba [McEntire] is the queen of 'The Voice' who brings the sparkle," he said, "I can be the king who brings the style, the funk and the fun."
Beyond music, Snoop Dogg is a multifaceted entertainer. He's a published author with a successful cookbook, "From Crook to Cook," and holds influential positions within the music industry as Executive Creative and Strategic Consultant for Def Jam Recordings. He recently acquired Death Row Records.
Fans can expect Snoop Dogg to leverage his extensive experience and unique style to mentor contestants. Joining him on the coaching panel for season 26 is swing legend Michael Bublé, returning for the first time since his role as a season 3 advisor, alongside returning coaches Gwen Stefani and McEntire.
Musician Donald Glover, known professionally as Childish Gambino, is launching a world tour, "The New World Tour," spanning North America, the U.K., Europe and Australia in 2024 and 2025. The tour kicks off Aug. 11 in Oklahoma City.
Glover also unveiled a reimagined version of his 2020 album, "3.15.20," titled "Atavista." The album features completed versions of tracks and two new songs, "Atavista" and "Human Sacrifice."
The tour includes stops in Kansas City, Milwaukee, Detroit, Toronto, Philadelphia, Brooklyn, Los Angeles, and more.
In the years since, Glover has expanded his creative portfolio with the critically acclaimed TV show "Atlanta" and his role in the "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" reboot.
ATAVISTA is streaming now.
this album is the finished version of "3.15.20", the album i put out 4 years ago. there's a special vinyl coming soon w/ visuals for each song.
the all new childish gambino album comes out in the summer.
"Atavista" is a reworked and enhanced version of "3.15.20," an album Glover released as an unfinished project during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In addition to the tour and album, Glover has announced a second album, "Bando Stone & The New World," billed as his final Childish Gambino project. The album will serve as the soundtrack for a film of the same name, due out this summer.
Tickets for "The New World Tour" go on sale May 17. An American Express pre-sale begins May 15.
Childish Gambino 2024-2025 Tour Dates: 08/11 – Oklahoma City, OK @ Paycom Center * 08/12 – Kansas City, MO @ T-Mobile Center * 08/14 – Milwaukee, WI @ Fiserv Forum * 08/15 – Columbus, OH @ Schottenstein Center * 08/17 – Detroit, MI @ Little Caesars Arena * 08/18 – Toronto, ON @ Scotiabank Arena * 08/20 – Pittsburgh, PA @ PPG Paints Arena * 08/21 – Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center * 08/23 – Boston, MA @ TD Garden * 08/24 – Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun Arena * 08/26 – Brooklyn, NY @ Barclays Center * 08/27 – Brooklyn, NY @ Barclays Center * 08/29 – Washington, D.C. @ Capital One Arena * 08/30 – Raleigh, NC @ PNC Arena * 09/01 – Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena * 09/02 – Atlanta, GA @ State Farm Arena * 09/04 – Tampa, FL @ Amalie Arena * 09/05 – Sunrise, FL @ Amerant Bank Arena * 09/07 – New Orleans, LA @ Smoothie King Center * 09/08 – Houston, TX @ Toyota Center * 09/10 – Austin, TX @ Moody Center * 09/11 – Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center * 09/13 – Denver, CO @ Ball Arena * 09/14 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Delta Center * 09/16 – Phoenix, AZ @ Footprint Center * 09/18 – Los Angeles, CA @ Crypto.com Arena * 09/19 – Los Angeles, CA @ Crypto.com Arena * 09/21 – San Francisco, CA @ Chase Center * 09/23 – Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena * 09/24 – Portland, OR @ Moda Center * 09/25 – Seattle, WA @ Climate Pledge Arena * 09/27 – Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome * 09/29 – Edmonton, AB @ Rogers Place * 10/02 – St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center * 10/03 – Chicago, IL @ United Center * 10/31 – Lyon, France @ LDLC Arena # 11/02 – Milan, Italy @ Unipol Forum # 11/04 – Cologne, Germany @ Lanxess Arena # 11/06 – Hamburg, Germany @ Barclays Arena # 11/08 – Oslo, Norway @ Oslo Spektrum # 11/10 – Copenhagen, Denmark @ Royal Arena # 11/12 – Prague, Czech Republic @ O2 arena # 11/13 – Berlin, Germany @ Uber Arena # 11/19 – Paris, France @ Accor Arena # 11/21 – Munich, Germany @ Olympiahalle # 11/23 – Brussels, Belgium @ ING Arena # 11/24 – Amsterdam, Netherlands @ Ziggo Dome # 11/26 – Manchester, UK @ AO Arena # 11/28 – Glasgow, UK @ OVO Hydro # 11/30 – London, UK @ The O2 # 12/01 – London, UK @ The O2 # 12/03 – Birmingham, UK @ Utilita Arena # 12/05 – Dublin, IE @ 3Arena # 01/28 – Auckland, NZ @ Spark Arena # 02/01 – Brisbane, QLD @ Brisbane Entertainment Centre # 02/04 – Sydney, NSW @ Qudos Bank Arena # 02/07 – Melbourne, VIC @ Rod Laver Arena # 02/11 – Perth, WA @ RAC Arena #
The Spinners: Jessie Robert Peck, Marvin Taylor, Ronnie Moss, C.J. Spencer and Henry Fambrough
In celebration of their 70th anniversary, legendary R&B vocal group The Spinners are set to release their anticipated album "Full Circle" on May 25. The album marks the final recordings featuring original member Henry Fambrough, a founding member of the group known for his smooth baritone vocals and signature falsetto.
Fambrough, who died in February at the age of 85, joined The Spinners in 1954. He played a pivotal role in shaping the group's sound and propelling them to stardom. His soulful delivery on hits like "I'll Be Around" and "Could It Be I'm Falling In Love" helped solidify The Spinners' place as one of the most influential R&B groups of the 1960s and 1970s.
"Full Circle" will feature 10 brand-new tracks distributed by Reservoir Recordings. Executive produced by Bernard Grobman, the album includes singles like the soulful ballad "Easy on Me" and the up-tempo "After Hours."
The Spinners will embark on a North American tour in May to coincide with the album launch. Renowned for their lasting impact on R&B history, the group's chart-topping hits like "I'll Be Around," "Could It Be I'm Falling In Love," and "The Rubberband Man" helped shape the landscape of Philadelphia Soul for over six decades.
Emerging from the doo-wop scene in the 1950s, The Spinners rose to prominence in the 1960s under the guidance of legendary producer Thom Bell. They crafted a smooth and sophisticated sound that blended classic soul with intricate harmonies and sophisticated orchestration. Their music became synonymous with Philadelphia Soul, a subgenre characterized by its lush production, romantic themes, and soulful vocals.
"The Spinners' influence on music history continues with their new album, aptly titled 'Full Circle,'" said Faith Newman, Reservoir's Executive Vice President of A&R and Catalog Development in a statement. "Each track is a testament to the group's enduring legacy and the timelessness of their catalog."
"Full Circle" promises to solidify The Spinners' position as musical icons. Fans can expect a return to the group's signature sound with new music that showcases their unwavering dedication to their craft. The band's influence continues to resonate across generations, leaving a significant influence on the hearts of millions worldwide.
"Full Circle" Tracklist (to be released May 25th):
Travis Scott unveiled teasers today for the upcoming release of his Nike Cactus Jack 1 sneaker line, available in Dark Mocha and University Red colorways.
One teaser features Kanye West, sparking speculation about a possible musical collaboration. The clip showcases West's face and tattoos while he sings in the background. Scott captioned the video "YE AND THE JACK," hinting at the partnership. Rapper Ty Dolla $ign also commented with two black hearts.
In another video, Scott shares a glimpse of his children Stormi and Aire playing with West's youngest kids, Chicago and Psalm. Set to Scott's song "My Eyes" from his August 2023 album UTOPIA, the video shows the children having fun and wearing Cactus Jack apparel and sneakers.
Fans anticipate the release of the Cactus Jack 1's, available for purchase on Scott's website starting Friday.
Meanwhile, Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign's anticipated album Vultures 2 remains unreleased. The project was initially scheduled for May 3rd but has seen no updates.
Scott, following the success of his UTOPIA album, is preparing for the European leg of his Circus Maximus Tour this summer. The 12-show tour kicks off on June 28th in the Netherlands and includes stops in several European countries.
In other news related to Scott, nine of the 10 wrongful death lawsuits filed in connection with the Astroworld music festival tragedy have been settled. This includes a lawsuit filed by the family of Madison Dubiski, one of the 10 people killed during the concert. Only one wrongful death lawsuit remains pending.
This undated photo of rapper 50 Cent, model Daphne Joy, and their son, Sire, was posted on Instagram by user '50 Cent' during happier times.
In a high-stakes legal showdown, rap icon 50 Cent has taken legal action against his former girlfriend, Daphne Joy, following her public allegations of rape and physical abuse. The lawsuit, filed on Monday, May 6, in Texas, marks the latest development in a bitter saga that has captivated social media and the entertainment world.
Court documents reveal a contentious relationship fraught with accusations and counterclaims. Reena Jain, attorney for Curtis Jackson (known professionally as 50 Cent), asserts that Joy’s accusations have triggered “extensive public ridicule, hatred, and contempt” toward the renowned rapper.
At the center of this legal battle lies a scathing Instagram post by Joy, also known as Daphne Narvaez, on March 28. In her post, Narvaez, 37, publicly criticized Jackson’s parenting and accused him of heinous acts of violence.
“I am tired of upholding an image to our son that you have never even earned. Let’s focus on your true actions of raping me and physically abusing me,” she wrote, igniting a firestorm of controversy.
However, Jackson’s legal team contends that Joy’s motives were not rooted in truth but rather in retaliation. The filing alleges that Joy aimed to undermine Jackson’s bid for custody of their 11-year-old son, Sire, by launching a calculated attack on his character.
According to Jackson’s filing, Joy’s post coincided with reports linking her to a lawsuit filed by producer Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones against Sean “Diddy” Combs, where Joy was labeled a “sex worker.” Jackson’s attorneys assert that Joy exploited this opportunity to hurl “multiple defamatory statements” at him, seeking to sabotage his custody case and tarnish his reputation.
Despite repeated requests from Jackson’s camp to retract her statements, Joy has stood her ground, setting the stage for a legal battle that promises to be closely watched by fans and legal experts alike.
50 Cent Seeks Sole Custody Of His Child After Finding Out His Baby Mama Was A S*x Worker For Diddy!
50 Cent and Daphne Joy's feud heats up over allegations in Diddy lawsuit. Joy denies accusations, questions 50's parenting, while 50 prioritizes son's safety and alleges Diddy's… pic.twitter.com/c1Buxdhs3S
— Diverse Mentality (@DverseMentality) April 3, 2024
In a move that throws a playful pass at NCAA traditions, hip-hop icon Snoop Dogg has teamed up with his new premium spirits brand, Gin & Juice By Dre and Snoop, to sponsor the Arizona Bowl. Dubbed a "groundbreaking agreement" in the official press release, this marks the first time an alcohol brand has secured the presenting sponsor role for an NCAA bowl game.
Set to take place on December 28th in Tucson, Arizona, the "Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl Presented by Gin & Juice By Dre and Snoop" promises a unique fusion of gridiron excitement and Snoop's signature laid-back vibes. While the Arizona Bowl traditionally donates 100% of net proceeds to charity, this collaboration presents a bold new direction for the event. For Snoop, it's an opportunity to combine his passion for football – evident through his management of the Snoop Youth Football League – with promoting his latest venture.
"I've sent many players through my SYFL to colleges (and the NFL), so it's only fitting that I bring the 'juice' back to college football," remarked Snoop in the press release. The term "juice" nods to his iconic 1994 song, adding a nostalgic touch to the partnership. The impact on fan experience and overall reception remains to be seen, but with Snoop leading the charge, spectators can anticipate an unparalleled game day experience. In addition to the on-field action, festivities will include charity events, a special "SNOOPER Bowl" featuring youth teams, and ample opportunities to sample Snoop's latest Gin & Juice flavors.
The partnership represents a significant achievement for Playfly Premier Partnerships, the agency responsible for securing the deal. Utilizing fan data, Playfly aimed to "redefine how college sports and entertainment intersect," according to Founder and CEO Mike Schreiber. While some may view this as a positive evolution in collegiate athletics, others may question the implications of commercial sponsorship in the NCAA sphere. Nevertheless, the "Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl Presented by Gin & Juice By Dre and Snoop" is poised to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of college football, signaling a new era of collaboration and innovation.
Rapper Jim Jones was involved in a physical altercation at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on Saturday, May 4th. Cellphone footage circulating online shows Jones engaged in a scuffle with two other men on a downward escalator.
According to witness accounts, Jones became involved in an argument with a man, described as older and bald, while descending the escalator. A second individual joined the altercation shortly thereafter. Airport security personnel intervened and separated the parties before any serious injuries were reported.
Meanwhile, Jim Jones is basically giving dudes fisherman suplexes on an escalator at the airport while fighting 2 v 1. Hip hop is on FIRE right now pic.twitter.com/oTZU3cPNQ8
Jones later addressed the incident on social media, claiming self-defense. "I was minding my business and defending myself," he stated. He added a cryptic remark, saying, "They got what they were looking for."
Police are investigating the cause of the altercation. No charges have been filed at this time.
R&B singer Mariah the Scientist, born Mariah Amani Buckles, was arrested on March 28 in Atlanta and faces battery charges stemming from an alleged altercation at Cavo Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge, according to Atlanta Police Department records.
The arrest gained traction online Wednesday after Buckles' mugshot reportedly from that date circulated on social media.
🚨 Mariah The Scientist got in a fight last night with rapper Cleotrapa in a club. pic.twitter.com/NY7erfrL8n
Cleopatra Dues, the alleged victim, told police Buckles forcibly removed her wig and dragged her across the floor, resulting in minor scratches on her feet. Dues claimed she had no prior interaction with Buckles and alleged the attack was unprovoked.
Police have not confirmed the authenticity of videos circulating on social media that purport to capture the altercation.
Buckles, a successful Atlanta-born artist, balanced academic pursuits with a passion for music. After attending St. John's University in New York on a biology scholarship, she opted for a full-time music career. Her 2018 debut EP, "To Die For," garnered recognition and led to a record deal with Canadian rapper Tory Lanez's label, One Umbrella, in collaboration with RCA Records.
Buckles has since released studio albums like "Master" and "Ry Ry World." In 2023, she signed with Epic Records and released her latest album, "To Be Eaten Alive," which charted on the Billboard 200.
Buckles' attorney has not yet responded to a request for comment on the charges.
Some of the biggest names in hip hop and R&B are making a triumphant return to TikTok.
That's right, after a period of exile thanks to licensing disputes, a landmark deal between Universal Music Group and the social media giant announced Thursday means your FYP (For You Page) is about to get a whole lot more lit.
The deal signifies a new chapter in the relationship between the two entities. It paves the way for the return of popular artists like Drake, Kanye West, Nicki Minaj, and Bad Bunny to TikTok, where their music can once again be used in user-generated content.
We would like to thank each of our artists, songwriters and label partners for your patience and understanding over the past few months. Your steadfast support alongside the wider music community has been integral to reaching an agreement that better rewards and protects artists… pic.twitter.com/5sYPgieSWz
"We are committed to working together to drive value, discovery and promotion for all of UMG's amazing artists and songwriters, and deepen their ability to grow, connect and engage with the TikTok community," said Shou Chew, CEO of TikTok, in a statement.
"This new chapter in our relationship with TikTok focuses on the value of music, the primacy of human artistry and the welfare of the creative community," said Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group, in a separate statement.
Beyond the return of UMG's music library, the agreement reportedly includes plans for new monetization opportunities for artists on the platform. Additionally, both UMG and TikTok have pledged to work together to protect artist rights and ensure fair compensation for creators. This includes measures to remove unauthorized AI-generated music and improve artist and songwriter attribution.
The return of UMG artists is expected to significantly impact the music scene on TikTok. It has the potential to attract new users and foster a more vibrant creator community, particularly within the hip-hop and R&B genres.
Mary J. Blige has partnered with Pepsi to empower Yonkers women. Fund grants $100,000 to local organizations supporting education and advancement.
Mary J. Blige, the undisputed Queen of Hip-Hop Soul and recent Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, stands at a crossroads. While whispers of a graceful exit from the music spotlight within the next five to six years have emerged, Blige's unwavering commitment to uplifting Black women continues to burn brightly.
"There's definitely gonna be more acting, and retirement in, like, five or six years," Blige shared in a recent interview with Extra TV. "But for now, I'm still doing what I'm doing, just at a different pace."
Blige's legendary voice may be transitioning to new stages, but her dedication to empowerment takes center stage at the annual Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit. Now in its third year, the event is set for May 10-12 in New York City.
"This festival is more than just music," Blige emphasized. "It's a celebration of resilience, a space for us to share stories, and inspire each other to keep pushing forward."
Mary J. Blige to be inducted into the 'Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’ at this years ceremony.
“The legendary musician has won 9 #GRAMMYs, sold over 60 million albums and 100 million records worldwide becoming one of the best-selling acts of all time”. pic.twitter.com/fmJGUvp0SR
Workshops, panels, and empowering performances promise to create an unforgettable experience, but Blige isn't content with just conversation. Partnering with Pepsi, she's launching the Pepsi x Mary J. Blige Strength of a Woman Community Fund, a $100,000 initiative specifically designed to support underserved women in her hometown of Yonkers, New York.
"Pepsi has been an incredible partner from the start," Blige remarked. "Now, with their support, I can finally come home to Yonkers and give back to the community that nurtured me."
The fund will award grants to local organizations tackling critical issues faced by women, including education, financial stability, and food security.
"Through this fund, we aim to uplift those who are often overlooked," Blige stated. "It's about creating opportunities for them to thrive."
The excitement surrounding the upcoming "Mufasa: The LionKing" prequel roared even louder with the release of its teaser trailer on Monday. The trailer itself fueled anticipation, but it was the star-studded cast that truly captivated audiences.
Directed by Barry Jenkins, the photorealistic-animated prequel features a returning cast of beloved characters. John Kani reprises his role as the wise Rafiki, while Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner return as the hilarious duo Pumbaa and Timon, respectively. Donald Glover steps back into the role of Simba, and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter rejoins the cast as Nala.
However, it was the addition of another member of the Carter family that stole the show – Blue Ivy Carter, Beyoncé's 12-year-old daughter, makes her film debut by voicing Kiara, Simba and Nala's daughter.
Blue Ivy Carter: A Timeline
**Jan. 7, 2012:** Blue Ivy Carter is born to Beyoncé and Jay-Z at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.
**Jan. 8, 2012:** Beyoncé and Jay-Z release a statement and photo welcoming Blue Ivy to the world.
**Feb. 1, 2012:** Blue Ivy becomes the youngest person to chart on the Billboard Hot 100, thanks to a feature credit on her father's song "Glory."
**2015:** Blue Ivy is credited as part of the choir on Coldplay's song "Up & Up."
**2018:** Blue Ivy begins attending West Hollywood's The Center for Early Education.
**2020:** Blue Ivy features on her mother's track "Brown Skin Girl," winning a Grammy Award as the youngest winner in a non-competitive category.
**Nov. 2020:** Blue Ivy narrates Matthew A. Cherry's book "Hair Love," sparking speculation about future voice acting endeavors.
**Jan. 21, 2023:** Blue Ivy joins her mother onstage for the first time, singing "Brown Skin Girl" at a private show in Dubai.
**May 26, 2023 (present):** Blue Ivy joins her mother on the Renaissance World Tour as a dancer for "My Power" and "Black Parade."
The teaser offers a captivating glimpse into the film's narrative. Rafiki narrates the legendary tale of Mufasa to a young Kiara, voiced by Blue Ivy Carter. Flashbacks then reveal the origin story of Mufasa, portrayed as an orphaned cub who embarks on an extraordinary journey after encountering Taka (voiced by Kelvin Harrison Jr.), a sympathetic lion. Thandiwe Newton, Anika Noni Rose, and Keith David round out the cast, bringing life to key characters in Mufasa's life.
Blue Ivy's involvement in the film marks a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. Born into music royalty, she has already made waves in the industry, credited as a featured artist on her mother's hit song "Brown Skin Girl," which earned her accolades as the youngest winner of both a BET Award and an MTV Video Music Award.
R&B singer Ne-Yo brought his smooth vocals and songwriting talents to NPR's Tiny Desk concert series on Friday.
Ne-Yo launched into a four-song medley of his hits, including "Because of You," "So Sick," and "Sexy Love," before surprising fans with a new song, "Two Million Secrets." Ne-Yo described the new track as a "personal reflection" on growth and redemption.
He further showcased his songwriting prowess with covers of songs he wrote for Rihanna ("Take a Bow"), Beyoncé ("Irreplaceable"), and Mario ("Let Me Love You").
The intimate concert concluded with Ne-Yo's signature anthem "Miss Independent."
Born Shaffer Chimere Smith, Ne-Yo is a Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter with multiple platinum-selling albums. He remains a force in R&B, both with his own music and as a sought-after songwriter.
Fresh off her historic selection as the number one draft pick by the Indiana Fever, 22-year-old Caitlin Clark has solidified her status as a marketing powerhouse.
Clark is poised to ink a record-breaking $28 million endorsement deal with Nike, which includes the development of her own signature shoe line. This development comes on the heels of her decision to turn down a groundbreaking offer from the BIG3 league, sparking discussions about the future of gender equity in professional sports.
The BIG3, a professional 3-on-3 basketball league co-founded by music icon Ice Cube and Jeff Kwatinetz, reportedly presented Clark with a $15 million package. This offer significantly surpasses the standard rookie salary in the WNBA, which stands at $76,535, highlighting the substantial financial gap between the two leagues.
In a guest column for Outkick, Kwatinetz argued that the WNBA "underpays" its stars, attributing this to a "male-dominated system" that controls basketball and limits opportunities for women. He criticized the NBA for exerting influence over the WNBA, alleging that it hinders women from receiving their fair share.
Kwatinetz further claimed in his Outkick column that Clark "found out about the BIG3 offer at the same time as everyone else," insinuating that her agents, with ties to the NBA, may have shielded her from the proposal.
The BIG3 has positioned itself as a proponent of equality, emphasizing its promotion of diversity by featuring female athletes competing at a high level alongside men. They highlight their female coaches and Black commissioner as evidence of their commitment to inclusivity.
While the financial opportunity presented by the BIG3 was undoubtedly tempting, questions linger about whether Clark, renowned for her finesse on the court, would have thrived in the league's physically demanding, defense-oriented environment. Was the offer truly withheld by her agents, or did Clark harbor reservations for other reasons?
This situation has become a focal point for discussions regarding the unequal treatment of women in basketball. Ongoing investigations by the Department of Justice into the NBA's business practices may shed light on the complexities underlying these disparities.
One thing remains certain: Caitlin Clark's journey is just beginning. Her decisions will be closely monitored, with some viewing her as a potential symbol of resistance to change or a catalyst for progress in terms of compensation and treatment of female athletes.
However, Clark's groundbreaking Nike deal offers a ray of hope. This lucrative endorsement signifies her immense marketing potential and could pave the way for a more prosperous financial future for female athletes in the WNBA. The inclusion of a signature shoe line in the deal is particularly noteworthy, elevating Clark to an unprecedented level of visibility within the sport.
This windfall stands in stark contrast to Clark's WNBA contract. The Indiana Fever will pay her a standard rookie salary, totaling $338,056 over four years. This amounts to a yearly salary of $76,535 in her first year, increasing slightly to $97,582 in her fourth year, should the team exercise their option.
The glaring disparity between Clark's Nike deal and her WNBA contract serves as a poignant reminder of the financial challenges faced by women's basketball players. While Clark's marketability transcends the court, questions persist about the equitable compensation of elite female athletes.
A lawsuit filed Tuesday in Los Angeles County Superior Court accuses rapper Megan Thee Stallion of harassment and creating a hostile work environment for a former cameraman.
Emilio Garcia, who worked for Megan Thee Stallion from 2018 to June 2023, alleges in the lawsuit that he was subjected to inappropriate behavior, including verbal abuse and fat-shaming comments.
The lawsuit centers on an incident in June 2022 during a trip to Ibiza, Spain. Garcia claims he was in a moving SUV with Megan Thee Stallion and several other women after a night out when she allegedly engaged in sexual activity with another woman. Garcia says he was unable to leave the vehicle and felt uncomfortable.
Megan Thee Stallion is being sued for allegedly making her former cameraman watch her have sex with another woman! He claims Megan told him to NEVER speak about the incident before allegedly calling him a "fat bitch":
The lawsuit details additional instances of alleged misconduct. Garcia claims he was subsequently berated by Megan Thee Stallion and subjected to derogatory comments about his weight. The lawsuit quotes Garcia as saying, "She told me, 'Don't ever discuss what you saw,' before berating me and using insults like 'Fat B-tch.'"
"The harassment was severe or pervasive enough to create a hostile work environment," the lawsuit states.
Garcia says he resigned in June 2023. Representatives for Megan Thee Stallion and Roc Nation have not commented on the allegations.
Mary J. Blige, the "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul," and the pioneering alternative rap group A Tribe Called Quest lead a strong contingent of Black artists selected for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's 2024 class. The announcement was made during Sunday night's "Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night" episode on "American Idol."
Mary J. Blige to be inducted into the 'Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’ at this years ceremony.
“The legendary musician has won 9 #GRAMMYs, sold over 60 million albums and 100 million records worldwide becoming one of the best-selling acts of all time”. pic.twitter.com/fmJGUvp0SR
Blige, who began her career with Uptown Records in 1989, broke new ground in the hip-hop soul genre with R&B hits like "Real Love" and "You Remind Me." Her collaborations with iconic rap artists set a standard for blending R&B and hip-hop, notably her Grammy-winning duet with Method Man, "I'll Be There for You/You're All I Need to Get By," considered one of rap's greatest love songs.
A Tribe Called Quest, formed in Queens, New York, in 1985, quickly rose to prominence with their unique blend of jazz-infused beats and socially conscious lyrics. Their albums "People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm," "The Low End Theory," and "Midnight Marauders" are hailed as classics, influencing generations of artists.
Joining them are legendary singer Dionne Warwick, whose smooth vocals and timeless hits like "Walk on By" and "Do You Know the Way to San Jose?" created a signature blend of pop, gospel, and R&B. Funk legends Kool & the Gang, songwriter Norman Whitfield (mastermind behind Motown hits like "Ain't Too Proud to Beg" and "Just My Imagination"), and blues powerhouse Big Mama Thornton, credited with bridging the gap between blues and rock & roll, round out the class.
These artists, selected from a pool of nominees, helped shape the course of rock & roll with their originality, impact, and influence. The induction ceremony will be held live on Saturday, October 19th, at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland, Ohio. Fans can tune in on Disney+ or catch a special airing on ABC at a later date, with streaming available on Hulu the following day.
Full List of 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees
The trial of Patrick Clark, the suspect accused of fatally shooting Migos rapper Takeoff, faces potential complications following revelations of forensic mishandling by a former Houston Forensic Science Center analyst, Rochelle Austen, who has now been terminated.
Documents obtained by Houston media outlet ABC13 highlight Austen's errors. These errors include switching DNA samples and violating chain of custody procedures, prompting scrutiny over their impact on Clark's case.
Takeoff, whose real name was Kirshnik Khari Ball, was killed outside a Houston bowling alley on November 1, 2022, sending shockwaves throughout the music industry. A pivotal member of the Grammy-nominated group Migos, Takeoff was known for his laidback demeanor and intricate flow that helped propel the group's success and influence countless artists.
Houston Forensic analyst Rochelle Austin fired after Mishandling DNA evidence in many cases. She is the analyst for Takeoff’s murder case against Patrick Clark, and was supposed to serve as a witness. They’re not aware if she mishandled his case as of now. It is being looked…
"Since she did mess up, they can never put her on the stand again, and the defense attorney would vigorously cross-examine her," said defense attorney Murray Newman, highlighting the potential impact of the revelations on the trial.
While details surrounding the shooting remain murky, prosecutors allege Clark's involvement in a dice game altercation that escalated to gunfire. Security footage reportedly captured Clark firing a weapon, with a nearby camera providing crucial evidence. His fingerprints were also found on a wine bottle left at the scene. Clark maintains his innocence.
On this day, Takeoff, one third of the rap group Migos, was shot and killed outside of a bowling alley in Houston, Texas.
Police were able to use surveillance footage, cell phone videos, and fingerprints from a wine bottle to identify the suspect as 33-year-old Patrick Clark of… pic.twitter.com/iiB2FqWers
The Harris County District Attorney's Office, proactively addressing potential issues, filed 392 Brady Notices, including one in Clark's case, notifying defense attorneys of the evidence mishandling.
Clark's attorney, Letitia Quinones, expressed concern, indicating plans to investigate how the errors might affect the defense. "This is something of concern for us, and we will be investigating it to see exactly how it affects our client's case," Quinones said.
Surveillance footage allegedly depicts Clark holding a gun and leaving behind a wine bottle, with his fingerprints linking him to the scene. However, FOX 26 Houston's Legal Analyst, Chris Tritico, emphasized the importance of maintaining a chain of custody in forensic science, suggesting that compromised evidence could weaken the prosecution's case.
Takeoff murder suspect Patrick Clark was able to post the $1 million bond and was released from jail
Clark, who posted a $1 million bond in January 2023, anticipates returning to court on May 29. The revelations of forensic errors add a layer of complexity to the case, prompting heightened scrutiny.
Timeline: Nov. 1, 2022: Takeoff is fatally shot. Dec. 2022: Patrick Clark is arrested and charged with murder. May. 2023: Grand jury indicts Clark on murder charges. Dec. 2023: Clark is released on bond with house arrest restrictions. March 2024: Forensic analyst Rochelle Austen is terminated, and her mishandling of evidence, including a chain of custody mix-up in Clark's case, is revealed. April 2024: Clark's house arrest restrictions are lifted.
Gloria Hallelujah Woods, known by her stage name GloRilla, was arrested at 2:15 a.m. Tuesday in Suwanee, Gwinnett County, on suspicion of driving under the influence.
According to the Suwanee Police Department, Woods was pulled over for making an illegal U-turn at a red light. During the traffic stop, an officer reported smelling the odor of alcohol on Woods' breath and marijuana in her vehicle. Woods acknowledged drinking but denied being impaired.
Video footage of the arrest reveals a conversation where Woods asked the officer, "Do you know who I am?" When the officer replied in the negative, Woods expressed surprise and later stated, "It don't matter who I am.
The police report also indicates that Woods briefly exposed part of her chest during questioning. The officer informed her of the wardrobe malfunction.
Woods failed field sobriety tests, including the walk-and-turn and one-leg stand, according to the police report. She declined to take a breathalyzer test, leading to her arrest on charges of DUI, possession of an open container, and failure to obey a traffic control device.
Woods was released from the Gwinnett County Jail after posting a $1,956 bond.
GloRilla, a Grammy-winning rapper, rose to fame with her viral hit "F.N.F. (Let's Go)." She has earned accolades at the BET Hip Hop Awards and American Music Awards. Her debut extended play (EP), "Anyways, Life's Great..." was met with critical acclaim.
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