by Jonathan P-Wright | May 2, 2025 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Photo by Marcos Paulo Prado on Unsplash
In yet another twist to their complex love story, R&B singer and entrepreneur Ray J has confirmed that he is continuing with his divorce from Princess Love, despite the pair recently being seen locking lips in public. The surprising moment happened during a Millennium Tour stop, where the former couple, who share two children together, were captured on video sharing a passionate kiss.
The incident sparked a flurry of speculation online. Were they getting back together? Was this a genuine moment of affection or just another confusing chapter in their famously rocky relationship? While many fans hoped this could be a sign of reconciliation, Ray J swiftly shut down those hopes with a candid and emotionally charged response online.
Unexpected Intimacy at the Millennium Tour
Fans attending the Millennium Tour got more than they bargained for when they spotted Ray J and Princess Love, seated together in the audience, engaging in a full-on makeout session. The kiss took place while singer Trey Songz was performing, adding an unexpected emotional backdrop to an already nostalgic event.
A short clip of the moment quickly circulated online, showing Ray J reacting to the camera being pointed at them with a goofy expression. Though playful, his reaction also hinted at an underlying awareness: he knew this moment would spark conversation and perhaps reopen old wounds. And sure enough, it did.
A Conflicted Reaction From Ray J
Not long after the video made its rounds, Ray J took to his Instagram Story to explain what had happened. His post, filled with raw emotion and conflicting feelings, made it clear that while the kiss may have felt meaningful in the moment, it didn’t change the direction he had already chosen.
“She tasted good,” he admitted, reminiscing about the intimate moment. “I reminisced, man. I love her, but I don’t like her right now.” The emotional turmoil in his words painted a clear picture: here was a man caught between memory and reality, torn between affection and pain.
In his posts, Ray J expressed admiration for Princess Love, praising her as a devoted mother. “She’s my everything,” he wrote, “but I’m her f*cking nothing!” The hurt in that statement was palpable. Despite still harboring love for her, he seemed to accept that love alone wasn’t enough to heal the cracks in their foundation.
“She was kissing me like when we first f*cking met,” he continued. “Don’t ever do that to me again and play with my emotions!”
Love, History, and Heartbreak
Ray J and Princess Love’s relationship has always been layered, passionate, and—at times—volatile. Married for nearly a decade, the couple has experienced numerous breakups and reconciliations, several of which have played out under the watchful eye of the public.
Their love story began with fire and flair but quickly evolved into one riddled with dramatic confrontations, tearful makeups, and repeated attempts at salvaging what once was. Over the years, the pair has filed for divorce more than once, only to withdraw the paperwork or give the relationship another shot.
To fans who have followed their journey, this latest kiss was just another moment in a long saga that seems to defy resolution. However, Ray J’s latest comments suggest this time, things might truly be over.
Public Drama, Private Pain
Ray J’s emotional post wasn’t just about the kiss. He went further, revealing personal struggles that hinted at a man battling deeper issues. He confessed to having “sinned” extensively in the previous year—“up to sixteen times a day”—though he did not clarify what that entailed. Whether it was a metaphor for reckless decisions or literal behavior, it indicated a period of intense inner conflict.
While he stated that he had since changed, the admission gave fans a glimpse into his mental and emotional state during the relationship’s breakdown. It also underscored how the pressures of fame, fatherhood, and a public marriage may have contributed to the couple’s collapse.
A Relationship Marked by Turbulence
For those unfamiliar, Ray J and Princess Love’s romance has never been smooth sailing. Their dynamic has often played out like a reality TV subplot—with all the tears, accusations, reconciliations, and media coverage that one might expect from a celebrity couple constantly in the spotlight.
Their appearances on Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood showcased both their love and dysfunction, often painting a picture of a couple who couldn’t live with or without each other. Physical altercations, arguments in front of cameras, and public statements about betrayal have been recurring themes in their relationship.
In one of their more serious clashes, the LAPD was called to their home amid reports that Ray J was yelling and behaving erratically. He was detained, though not arrested, but the incident further cemented the narrative of a marriage teetering on the edge.
Fans React to the Whirlwind
As is often the case when celebrities share their personal turmoil online, the internet responded swiftly. Social media was flooded with hot takes, sympathy, criticism, and wild theories. Some fans expressed hope that the couple would find their way back to each other, while others advised both to move on for good.
One comment read, “This man clearly loves her, but sometimes love just isn’t enough. Let her go, king.” Another user tweeted, “Princess and Ray J need to either do this off-camera or just accept they’re addicted to the chaos.”
Others criticized the kiss itself, labeling it manipulative or performative. The division in public opinion reflects just how invested people have become in this couple’s journey—almost as if it’s a reality show that keeps renewing itself for another season.
What’s Next for Ray J and Princess?
Despite the recent makeout session and emotional Instagram confessions, Ray J insists that the divorce is still moving forward. Whether that process will finally come to a conclusion this time remains to be seen.
What is clear is that both parties will need to work together when it comes to co-parenting their children. In his Story, Ray J praised Princess for being an incredible mother and acknowledged that their children were the best part of their union. “She won,” he said, not in bitterness, but with what felt like genuine admiration.
That statement might be the most telling of all. It signals a man who, despite all the mess, recognizes that the most important legacy of their relationship isn’t the drama—but the family they created together.
In many ways, that passionate kiss at the concert felt like more than a moment of nostalgia. It felt like a farewell—a final flash of the chemistry that once defined them, now fading under the weight of experience and exhaustion.
Ray J’s plea, “Don’t ever do that to me again,” wasn’t just about the kiss. It was about reopening wounds, reigniting old feelings, and stirring a hope that was no longer sustainable.
It’s possible that this was their final moment as something resembling a couple—a spontaneous, electric, yet fleeting reminder of what once was. And now, both Ray J and
Princess Love must figure out what comes next. Whether that’s healing separately or navigating life as co-parents, the road ahead will require patience, honesty, and perhaps for the first time—distance.
If you’d like a follow-up article exploring Princess Love’s perspective or the impact of public relationships on personal healing, I can write that next. Would you like that?
by Jonathan P-Wright | May 2, 2025 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Image credit: Ben Houdijk / Shutterstock.com
The seemingly disparate realms of West Coast hip-hop and Southern country music have, against conventional expectations, found a captivating point of intersection. This unexpected confluence has manifested in the form of “Gettin’ Gone,” a refreshingly laidback and genre-fluid track born from the collaboration between the iconic rap luminary Snoop Dogg and the ascendant Nashville country artist ERNEST. This intriguing musical partnership graces ERNEST’s forthcoming mixtape, “Cadillac Sessions,” hinting at a project that dares to defy genre boundaries and explore uncharted sonic territories.
ERNEST, a name rapidly gaining prominence within the Nashville songwriting and performing community, has already established himself as a significant force in contemporary country music. His songwriting prowess is evident in his collaborations with artists like Morgan Wallen, contributing to a string of chart-topping singles that have resonated deeply with audiences. On the other side of this compelling musical equation stands Snoop Dogg, a veritable institution in the hip-hop world. Beyond his legendary status as a rapper, Snoop has consistently demonstrated a willingness to venture beyond the confines of his primary genre. His forays into reggae under the moniker Snoop Lion, his explorations of gospel music, and even his unlikely yet endearing collaborations with Martha Stewart underscore a restless creative spirit and an openness to diverse sonic landscapes, solidifying his position as a global cultural icon unafraid of artisustic risk.
While the pairing of Snoop Dogg and a rising country artist might initially raise eyebrows, a closer examination reveals a surprising undercurrent of mutual respect and appreciation. Snoop Dogg himself has publicly acknowledged a long-standing affinity for country music, notably expressing admiration for the legendary Johnny Cash, whom he once lauded as his “main man” and a quintessential “real American gangster.” This shared appreciation for authenticity, the power of storytelling, and a certain rebellious spirit inherent in both hip-
hop and traditional country music renders their collaboration not as a contrived marketing ploy, but rather as a serendipitous alignment of artistic sensibilities.
An Unlikely Backstage Encounter Sparks a Musical Connection
The genesis of “Gettin’ Gone” was not orchestrated in a sterile boardroom but rather unfolded organically in the backstage milieu of a Jelly Roll concert. ERNEST, a self-professed admirer of hip-hop culture and ever the astute opportunist, seized the moment to engage in conversation with Snoop Dogg amidst the backstage bustle. Armed with a freshly recorded demo of “Gettin’ Gone,” ERNEST recognized a potential opportunity and boldly presented his musical offering.
Recounting the pivotal encounter with a touch of amusement, ERNEST explained, “I basically weaseled my way into Snoop’s green room. I was like, ‘Yo, can I play you a song I wrote last weekend?’ and he was just super chill—’Sure.’ I hit play, and he was vibing.” This initial positive reception paved the way for a direct exchange of contact information, laying the groundwork for a collaboration that would soon transcend the confines of that backstage meeting.
The song itself, “Gettin’ Gone,” had its genesis during a songwriting retreat held on ERNEST’s tour bus, in the company of esteemed country songwriting heavyweights Rhett Akins, Ben Hayslip, and Mark Holman. The initial concept revolved around the universal desire for escapism—whether a physical departure or a mental retreat—when the pressures of the world become overwhelming. This theme of seeking solace and respite resonates deeply within both country and rap traditions, albeit often explored through distinct lyrical and sonic lenses.
A mere couple of weeks after their chance encounter, ERNEST received a text message from Snoop Dogg that signaled more than just casual appreciation. It was an enthusiastic expression of interest in actively participating in the song. “He sent me this flood of emojis—blue hearts, fire, paw prints,” ERNEST described, interpreting the digital deluge as Snoop’s affirmative response: “Yeah, I’m down.” True to his word, Snoop swiftly recorded and delivered his verse in less than 48 hours. This rapid and enthusiastic engagement speaks volumes about the genuine connection and organic energy that fueled the collaboration, a refreshing departure from the often-calculated pace of the modern music industry.
Capturing the Vibe: Cadillac Cruising and Authentic Chemistry
The music video accompanying “Gettin’ Gone” masterfully captures the same relaxed and authentic vibe that permeates the track itself. Filmed against the backdrop of iconic Nashville landmarks, the visual narrative feels less like a meticulously scripted production
and more like an impromptu hangout between two artists from seemingly different worlds who find common ground in their shared passion for music. ERNEST and Snoop are seen cruising through the city in a classic Cadillac, making stops at local haunts and effortlessly trading verses, their camaraderie palpable and genuine.
“The chemistry was real,” ERNEST emphasized. “It wasn’t just like, ‘Hey, here’s your verse, and we’ll film you in a studio later.’ He was all in. He wanted to film the video. He wanted to vibe in the city.” One particularly memorable moment for ERNEST during the filming occurred while they were driving back to Castle Recording Studios. He decided to play Snoop Dogg’s timeless hit, “Gin and Juice.” The surreal experience of Snoop rapping along to his own iconic track, word for word, while the bass resonated through the Cadillac’s sound system, created a profound full-circle moment for ERNEST. “That was a childhood memory unfolding in real-time,” he reflected.
A Growing Trend: Genre Lines Blur in Modern Music
While some might view Snoop Dogg’s foray into country music as an unexpected detour, it is not entirely unprecedented. In recent years, Snoop and his longtime collaborator Dr. Dre have demonstrated an increasing interest in the evolving musical landscape of Nashville. Notably, they featured the burgeoning country sensation Jelly Roll on a track from their collaborative album, “Missionary,” released the previous year. Furthermore, earlier this year, they enlisted HARDY, a prominent figure in the country-rock scene, for a fresh reimagining of Snoop’s 1994 classic “Gin and Juice,” complete with an accompanying short film.
These instances are not isolated experiments but rather indicative of a broader trend in the music industry: the gradual erosion of rigid genre boundaries. The traditional walls separating Nashville’s country vocalists and hip-hop’s lyrical giants are becoming increasingly porous. Country artists are exploring covers of hip-hop tracks, while rappers are incorporating elements of folk music into their sonic palettes. We are entering an era where individual playlists, driven by personal taste, are gaining precedence over traditional genre classifications, and music enthusiasts are increasingly valuing authenticity over strict adherence to established labels.
More significantly, collaborations such as “Gettin’ Gone” serve to challenge preconceived notions and foster connections across generational and cultural divides. ERNEST and Snoop Dogg, while originating from distinct backgrounds and musical traditions, find common ground at the intersection of creative expression, rhythmic innovation, and genuine soulfulness.
“Cadillac Sessions”: A Launchpad for Southern Sound and Collaboration
“Gettin’ Gone” serves as a compelling precursor to ERNEST’s upcoming “Cadillac Sessions” mixtape, a project that extends beyond his own artistic endeavors to spotlight a new wave of emerging talent nurtured under his own label, DeVille Records, a partnership with Big Loud Records.
“This project is all about spotlighting a new wave of talent coming out of the South,” ERNEST elaborated. “I’m collaborating with guys like Cody Lohden, Chandler Walters, and Rhys Rutherford. These aren’t just features—they wrote their own songs. They’re authentic, they’re storytellers, and they represent the next generation of Nashville.”
Each artist featured on the mixtape hails from a different corner of the American South—Rhys from Nashville itself, Chandler from Georgia, and Cody from Kentucky. This geographical diversity imbues the project with a rich tapestry of styles and thematic explorations, while maintaining a cohesive grounding in Southern identity and ethos. ERNEST’s vision for “Cadillac Sessions” extends beyond simply creating music; it encompasses the ambition to cultivate a supportive community and establish a lasting legacy for these emerging voices.
While the title “Gettin’ Gone” might conjure images of escaping on open highways, ERNEST offers a more nuanced perspective on finding moments of respite in his adopted home of Nashville. When asked about his preferred local spots for unwinding, his answer reveals a refreshingly down-to-earth sensibility.
“Either Troubadour Golf Course out in College Grove or Losers in Midtown,” he shared. “But honestly, sometimes I be gettin’ gone while I work at the office.”
This sentiment encapsulates the core essence of “Gettin’ Gone.” It transcends the literal act of physical departure, delving into the realm of mental reprieve, a temporary detachment from expectations, and the freedom to simply be oneself. Whether it’s the familiar comfort of a local dive bar or the expansive tranquility of a driving range, the specific location is secondary to the liberating energy it provides.
Snoop Dogg’s participation in a country music project sends a significant signal throughout the music industry, indicating a broader cultural shift. Audiences are increasingly receptive to genre-bending sounds, embracing musical fusions that defy traditional categorization. The willingness of artists to collaborate across genre lines reflects a growing appreciation for authenticity and a desire to connect with diverse audiences.
More importantly, collaborations like “Gettin’ Gone” challenge ingrained stereotypes and foster connections across generational and cultural divides. ERNEST and Snoop Dogg, while originating from distinct backgrounds and musical traditions, find common ground in their shared commitment to expressive storytelling, rhythmic innovation, and genuine soulfulness.
In conclusion, “Gettin’ Gone” is more than just a novelty track; it serves as a potent reminder of the creative possibilities that emerge when artists disregard artificial industry barriers and simply create from a place of genuine inspiration. It underscores the notion that music, when infused with sincere respect and unwavering passion, possesses the remarkable ability to transcend genre limitations and geographical boundaries.
ERNEST’s audacious move of approaching a legendary figure like Snoop Dogg backstage with a demo, and subsequently forging a collaborative partnership, embodies the kind of bold, spontaneous action that often lies at the heart of the most compelling musical narratives. And Snoop Dogg’s enthusiastic embrace of this unexpected collaboration, lending his iconic voice to a country track and immersing himself in the Nashville experience, stands as a testament to his continued evolution as a cultural bridge-builder. If “Cadillac Sessions” lives up to the promising precedent set by “Gettin’ Gone,” ERNEST may well be on the cusp of not just releasing a mixtape, but potentially igniting a transformative movement within the landscape of contemporary country music.
by Jonathan P-Wright | May 2, 2025 | Uncategorized |
Image credit: Maciej Rogowski Photo / Shutterstock.com
Lenny Kravitz, a celebrated figure in the realm of rock music, renowned for his genre-defying sound and distinctive aesthetic, has recently offered an intimate glimpse into his Parisian abode, a sanctuary he affectionately refers to as Hotel Roxie. Far from being a conventional celebrity dwelling, this Parisian residence, nestled in a tranquil corner of the luminous city, stands as a vibrant homage to the intertwined worlds of art, historical significance, musical expression, and profound affection.
In a revealing video tour conducted for Architectural Digest, Kravitz graciously unveils the interiors of this extraordinary space, a home brimming with a bold and deeply personal character. More than a mere display of opulence, Hotel Roxie serves as a tangible extension of Kravitz’s multifaceted identity as an artist, a devoted son, a loving father, and a respected cultural icon.
A Mother’s Dream Realized: The Genesis of Hotel Roxie
The very name of the house, Hotel Roxie, carries a weighty significance, serving as a heartfelt tribute to Kravitz’s late mother, the accomplished actress Roxie Roker. As Kravitz himself explains during the video walkthrough, “It was named after my mother because it was her dream to come live in Paris.” This seemingly small yet profoundly meaningful detail establishes the overarching tone of the entire residence. It is a space saturated with memories, imbued with intention, and designed to honor a cherished maternal figure. Kravitz has not simply constructed a place to reside; rather, he has meticulously crafted a narrative that interweaves his past experiences, his present life, and his aspirations for the legacy he will eventually leave behind.
As the virtual tour unfolds, viewers are inevitably drawn into a world that feels like the physical embodiment of Lenny Kravitz’s innermost artistic sensibilities. It is a space that exudes soulfulness, radiates style, and surprises with its eclectic artistic choices. The walls serve as canvases for abstract art, each piece pulsating with vibrant colors, rich textures,
and palpable emotions. It is a carefully curated collection, a harmonious yet unpredictable assembly of visual storytelling, where each artwork has been thoughtfully selected to articulate an idea, evoke a feeling, or represent a significant phase in Kravitz’s personal and artistic evolution.
A particularly striking feature of the home is the imposing grand piano that commands attention in the entryway. This is far more than a mere decorative element; it possesses a presence akin to a centerpiece in a grand concert hall. It is an instrument that seems to demand to be played, to be an integral part of the musical experience. One can easily envision Kravitz pausing at its keys during the quiet hours of the night, allowing melodies to flow into the surrounding air like fragrant incense.
Beyond the realms of music and fine art, Hotel Roxie holds spaces dedicated to more personal connections. An entire room is lovingly devoted to his mother, Roxie. Furnished and styled with meticulous care, it serves as a serene sanctuary for reflection and remembrance, a sacred space honoring the woman who profoundly shaped his life. In a home filled with expressive design, this room acts as an emotional anchor, grounding the entire space in familial love and respect.
Homage to a Legend: The Grand Salon’s Tribute to Muhammad Ali
Venturing further into the house, one encounters the Grand Salon, an expansive room that functions as a veritable shrine to the legendary boxer and influential activist, Muhammad Ali. The room is filled with carefully chosen memorabilia, distinct design elements, and powerful iconography all dedicated to this iconic figure.
The choice of dedicating such a significant space to Ali is not arbitrary. For Kravitz, the admiration extends far beyond the realm of sports. “What I love about Muhammad Ali is the humanitarian work, the civil rights work—he was a freedom fighter, and that is so important,” Kravitz articulates, revealing the deeper resonance of this dedication.
It becomes evident that the Grand Salon transcends mere aesthetic considerations. It is a space of reverence, a celebration of courage, unwavering strength, and the profound act of speaking truth to power. Muhammad Ali, often perceived as the ultimate symbol of resilience and dignity in the face of adversity, serves as a potent source of inspiration for Kravitz’s own journey as a Black artist navigating the complexities of the world on his own terms. The room emanates a palpable sense of quiet respect. This is not a mere display of celebrity collectibles; it is a heartfelt expression of gratitude and a powerful channeling of inspiration.
An Underground Sanctuary: The Secret Nightclub
However, the most captivating and unexpected feature of Hotel Roxie lies beneath the surface, in the basement—a hidden gem that most would never anticipate finding within a private residence: a fully operational nightclub. Indeed, Lenny Kravitz has created his very own underground club beneath his Parisian home.
Bathed in a moody and seductive ambiance reminiscent of a scene from an A24 film, the nightclub is characterized by deep red lighting, carefully selected vintage decor, and luxurious velvet textures that collectively create an atmosphere that feels both retro and timeless. Stepping into this space is akin to entering another era, yet it possesses an undeniable contemporary allure.
Kravitz himself describes this subterranean haven as the “heart and soul” of his Parisian residence. It is a dynamic space where creativity and community converge and flourish after nightfall. On any given evening, it can spontaneously transform into a vibrant gathering, with guests spanning generations engaging in lively conversations, freely dancing to the rhythm of the music, and fully embracing the joy of the moment.
And Kravitz is not merely an observer in this vibrant setting. As the music fills the air and the energy of the gathering intensifies, he wholeheartedly immerses himself in the celebration—dancing with unrestrained joy, sharing laughter with his guests, and fully embracing the present moment. The image of him moving freely, his signature dreadlocks swaying with the rhythm, is undeniably cinematic. This underground space is part speakeasy, part dreamscape—a carefully crafted environment designed to be felt viscerally, not just admired visually.
Beyond Paris: A Global Footprint Rooted in Identity
As the tour draws to a close, Kravitz adopts a more contemplative tone. Standing in the very heart of Hotel Roxie, he reflects on the profound significance of the house in his life. “It represents so many parts of my history, my story, and evolution,” he shares with a quiet sincerity. This Parisian residence is clearly more than just an asset in a real estate portfolio. For Lenny Kravitz, it is an emotional and creative landmark, a tangible representation of his personal journey. It encapsulates the entirety of his experiences—from his upbringing as the son of the Bahamian-American actress Roxie Roker to his current status as a globally recognized music icon with an unshakeable sense of self. Then follows a deeply personal revelation. Kravitz expresses his intention to leave the house unchanged. In his eyes, it has reached its final, perfect form—at least for him. He states that upon his passing, the responsibility and creative freedom regarding the future of Hotel Roxie will be entrusted to his daughter, the talented actress Zoë Kravitz. “She can do what she wants with it after I’m gone,” he says with a sense of quiet peace and acceptance. This is a profoundly poetic
gesture, one that speaks volumes about preserving the past, fully embracing the present, and having the wisdom to trust the future. It underscores themes of legacy, the enduring power of love, and the subtle yet significant art of letting go.
While his Parisian home, Hotel Roxie, may hold the deepest emotional resonance among his properties, it is but one facet of Lenny Kravitz’s impressive global real estate portfolio. He possesses a discerning eye for designing spaces that not only reflect his rockstar persona but also embody his globally attuned spirit. According to reports from Travel Noire, Kravitz also owns a sprawling estate in Brazil, encompassing nearly 1,000 acres of land that once served as a coffee plantation. Nestled deep within the lush jungle, this property has evolved into a serene retreat, an earthly paradise where he can disconnect from the demands of his public life and reconnect with the tranquility of the natural world. However, his appreciation for freedom and a certain understated minimalism extends beyond his Brazilian estate. He also maintains a custom-designed Airstream trailer in the Bahamas—sleek, silver, and fully equipped for off-grid living. This mobile home-away-from-home contains all the essentials, proving that true luxury does not always equate to extravagance. For Kravitz, even a trailer can be transformed into a sanctuary if it possesses thoughtful design and positive energy.
Ultimately, what renders Lenny Kravitz’s homes—and particularly Hotel Roxie—so compelling is not merely the carefully chosen decor or the architectural design. It is the profound way in which he seamlessly weaves his identity, his core values, and his personal history into the very fabric of these spaces. Each room serves a purpose, and every object within tells a story. From honoring the memory of his mother and celebrating the legacy of civil rights heroes to creating environments that foster joy and meaningful connections, Kravitz approaches the art of design with the same soulful depth that characterizes his music. In a world where the homes of celebrities often feel like sterile showcases of wealth and status, Hotel Roxie stands as a refreshing contrast. It is not simply a house; it is a living memoir, a deeply human and profoundly artistic space that serves as a powerful reminder that the essence of a true home lies not in flawless perfection but in authentic truth. And in the case of Lenny Kravitz, that truth is undeniably cool, deeply conscious, and vibrantly alive, perhaps even echoing with music from a hidden nightclub in the basement.
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