by Jonathan P-Wright | Dec 25, 2023 | Latest, Music News |
Image credit: Fred Duval / Shutterstock.com
Rihanna, the pop sensation and ASAP Rocky, the rap artist, have been a center of attraction since their union was confirmed. Their life as parents to two adorable children, Rza and Riot, has become the talk of the town. In a recent interview with Access Hollywood, Rihanna opened up about her experience as a mother and ASAP Rocky’s incredible journey into fatherhood.
Rihanna’s Unexpected Journey into Motherhood
Rihanna confessed that she had no idea how her family would shape up. She was caught by surprise with the way things turned out with Rocky and their two children. She said, “I couldn’t have predicted how my family would look, and I’m amazed at the life we’ve built together.”
ASAP Rocky – A Phenomenal Dad
In the same interview, Rihanna appreciated ASAP Rocky’s efforts as a dad. She praised him, saying, “I loved him differently as a dad. This is major, major like, it’s a turn on. It’s just like, ‘Wow! What a leader, what a great, patient, loving [dad].” She further added that her children are smitten with him. In her words, “My kids are obsessed with him. I’m just a background, I’m an extra.”
“It doesn’t matter if it’s girls or boys; they love their dad differently, and I love to see it,” Rihanna expressed her joy.
The Journey of Rihanna and ASAP Rocky
Speculations about Rihanna and ASAP Rocky’s relationship started circulating after Rihanna ended her relationship with Hassan Jameel in January 2020. They were spotted together frequently, which fueled the rumors. The rumors were finally put to rest when People confirmed their relationship in November 2020. Fans were ecstatic about the confirmation and couldn’t get enough of the couple.
The Arrival of Rza and Riot
The couple made headlines again in January 2022 when they announced they were expecting their first child, Rza. Rza was born on May 13, and they welcomed their second child, Riot, on Aug. 1, 2023. The arrival of the children added a new chapter in their lives.
ASAP Rocky on Fatherhood
ASAP Rocky shared his experiences as a dad in an interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1. He said, “It’s so unexplainable. It’s just one of those things. I’m a member of our club now, like the dad club.”
“You see a dad, you see me. I’m playing on, I’m a full dad now. Being outside and working and being creative, it drives more energy for you…to think and soak things up like a sponge now that I’m a dad, because I have a whole ‘nother perspective.” He continued.
ASAP Rocky expressed his gratitude for his family and the joy he experiences every day. “You come home to heaven every day. I’m so thankful. God is good, man,” he concluded.
Rihanna and ASAP Rocky’s journey into parenthood has been an exciting one. Their transformation into parents and their love for their children has been heartwarming. The couple’s life continues to be a trending topic in music news, and fans are eagerly waiting for more updates from them.
by Jesse Swindell | Nov 15, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Jennifer Hudson, an iconic name in the world of music and film, has recently been under the spotlight for her rumored relationship with Common, the acclaimed rapper and actor. Their public display of affection has set tongues wagging and hearts fluttering among fans.
Unveiling The Public Display of Affection
According to People magazine, Hudson and Common were spotted at an event hosted by Artists for Mikel Mwalimu-Banks at Joe’s Pub in New York City. The Oscar-winning duo was seen walking hand-in-hand, fueling dating speculations.
Their rapport began in July 2022 while filming the upcoming action-thriller, Breathe. In this film, the duo portrays a married couple, further adding fuel to the fire of their off-screen romance.
During an interview with Al Roker on TODAY, Common had nothing but words of praise for Hudson. He refrained from confirming or denying their relationship status, but his admiration for her was evident in his words.
Hudson’s Response to Dating Queries
In a recent interview on CBS Mornings, co-host Gayle King probed Hudson about her love life. In response, Hudson confirmed her happiness but did not directly address the rumors of her being romantically involved with Common.
Common’s dating history is dotted with several famous names from the world of sports and entertainment, including Erykah Badu, Taraji P. Henson, Serena Williams, and Tiffany Haddish. Haddish’s recent comments about her breakup with Common made headlines when she claimed she was taken aback by the sudden end of their relationship.
On the other hand, Hudson was married to actor and lawyer, David Otunga, for a decade from 2007 to 2017. They share a son, David Daniel Otunga Jr.
Conclusion
While the duo has yet to confirm their relationship status, the affectionate bond between Jennifer Hudson and Common is undeniable. As fans eagerly await a formal announcement, the world continues to speculate about this potential power couple in the music industry.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Nov 10, 2023 | Business News, Latest |
Image credit: Ink Drop / Shutterstock.com
Spotify, the renowned music streaming platform, has recently made a significant stride in enhancing its user offerings. A mere month after the announcement of introducing a selection of audiobooks as part of its Premium subscription, the company is now extending this service to its U.S. user base for the first time.
A Progressive Leap
This expansion grants Premium subscribers 15 hours of monthly audiobook listening time, a notable rise from the initial 150,000 titles in the U.K. and Australia to a vast catalog of 200,000 titles. This move is a clear sign of Spotify’s commitment to diversifying its content and catering to the evolving preferences of its users. Spotify first ventured into the realm of audiobooks in September 2022, following its acquisition of Findaway, a digital audiobook distributor, in 2021. The company debuted with a catalog of approximately 300,000 titles for U.S. users, later extending its reach to other English-speaking markets. Canada was added to the list in early 2023.
apping into a Growing Market
Spotify has acknowledged the potential of tapping into the growing market of audiobooks. Even though audiobooks currently hold a 6% to 7% share of the broader book market, the category is witnessing a 20% year-over-year growth. This growth is majorly driven by Gen Z and millennials, with 72% of 18- to 34-year-olds indulging in audiobook listening.
Initially, accessing Spotify’s audiobooks was a somewhat complex process, primarily due to the company’s reluctance to share commissions with app stores on in-app purchases. Users had to purchase titles individually via Spotify’s website before listening to them in-app. However, the introduction of a certain number of hours in the Premium subscription has streamlined this process, enabling users to select a book and start listening with a single click. Users desiring more time can opt for an additional 10 hours by purchasing a “top-off.”
Discoverability and Content Diversity
Spotify has ensured easy discoverability of its audiobooks. They can be found on the app’s Home feed or by searching for a specific title. A curated selection of popular titles is also available for browsing in the app’s audiobook hub.
Notable titles include recent releases like Britney Spears’ “The Woman in Me” and Jesmyn Ward’s “Let Us Descend,” alongside works by renowned authors such as Janet Evanovich, John Grisham, Stephen King, Colleen Hoover, and musical artists like Willie Nelson and Dave Grohl.
The platform boasts over 70% of bestselling titles, encompassing books from the big five publishers as well as independent publishers and authors. The titles span across various genres and include classics like Emily Brontë’s “Wuthering Heights.”
Spotify’s Continued Growth
In its most recent quarter, Spotify reported a 16% year-over-year growth in paying subscribers, now totaling 226 million. Its monthly active users saw a 26% increase, reaching 574 million, surpassing the company’s forecast by 2 million. Revenue also rose by 11% year-over-year to €3.4 billion ($3.63 billion USD), aided by recent price hikes. This development heralds a promising upswing for Spotify, underlining its forward-thinking strategy and commitment to user satisfaction. The inclusion of audiobooks in its Premium subscription not only broadens its content spectrum but also positions it favorably to tap into the burgeoning audiobook market.
by Minnee | Sep 15, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Image credit: Franklin Sheard Jr / Shutterstock.com
On September 9, Gunna, a well-known figure in the music industry, staged a memorable performance at Barclays Center, located in the heart of Brooklyn. This marked the rapper’s first appearance on stage following his release from jail in December of 2022. Notably, during the performance, the rapper, known for his hit “fukumean,” made a rallying cry for the release of Young Thug, visually reinforcing his message with bold “Free Jeffery” graphics.
The Legal Complications
Jeffery Lamar Williams, better known by his stage name, Young Thug, found himself entangled in a legal web along with several others, including Gunna. In May of 2022, they were indicted on 56 counts as part of a RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) case. Gunna faced charges of conspiracy to violate the RICO Act.
Gunna’s Release and Alford Plea
The legal proceedings took a turn when Gunna entered what is known as an Alford Plea, leading to his release. An Alford Plea is a unique plea wherein a defendant does not admit guilt but acknowledges that the prosecution has enough evidence to secure a conviction. Gunna used this legal strategy to navigate his release.
In a statement provided to Complex, Gunna expressed, “I have chosen to end my own RICO case with an Alford plea and end my personal ordeal by publicly acknowledging my association with YSL.” He further elaborated on the nature of an Alford plea in his case, highlighting that it referred to the entry of a guilty plea to one charge, which was in his best interest, while simultaneously maintaining his innocence towards the same charge. Gunna also used his statement to affirm his continued association with YSL music and express his intentions to use his experience to educate the youth about the destructive path of “gangs” and violence.
Conclusion
While Gunna’s performance made headlines, his advocacy for Young Thug‘s release made a significant impact. It remains to be seen whether his legal strategies and public support will have any influence on Young Thug’s legal predicament. In the meantime, fans eagerly await Gunna’s next performance and future releases.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Sep 13, 2023 | Latest, POLITICS, Social Justice |
Image Credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com
In a shocking revelation, five former officers of the British police force have publicly admitted to circulating racist messages about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. This unsettling news has once again brought to the forefront the issue of racism that has been a longstanding concern within the British establishment.
The Guilty Officers and Their Charges
The five officers – Robert Lewis, Peter Booth, Anthony Elsom, Alan Hall, and Trevor Lewton – confessed their guilt at London’s Westminster Magistrates’ Court. Their charges included sending grossly offensive racist messages via public communication.
A sixth officer, Michael Chadwell, declined the identical charge and is expected to return to court on November 6. The rest are scheduled for sentencing on the same day.
These officers were previously part of London’s Metropolitan Police Force, serving in the Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection branch, responsible for safeguarding politicians and diplomats.
The Incriminating Messages
The officers were arrested and charged following a BBC investigation last year that uncovered their clandestine activities. These included the circulation of offensive and racist messages in a closed WhatsApp group. Their derogatory comments targeted not only the Duke and Duchess of Sussex but also other members of the royal family, such as Prince William, Kate, the late Queen Elizabeth II, and her late husband, Prince Philip. High-profile political figures like U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, former interior minister Priti Patel, and former Health Secretary Sajid Javid were also victims of their contemptuous remarks.
The messages were circulated between 2020 and 2022, a period during which none of the accused were serving as officers. According to Newsweek, their conversations also included discussions about the U.K. government’s plans to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda and the floods in Pakistan.
A Not-So-Isolated Incident
This incident is not an isolated one. In 2022, two active officers were discharged from service when their racist conversations on WhatsApp were revealed publicly. Shockingly, one of these messages was even circulated during the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018.
The Impact of Racism on the Royal Couple
These racist incidents significantly contributed to the decision of the royal couple to relocate to America in 2020. They stepped away from the monarchy, citing the high tension between members of the royal family, the royal institution, and the British tabloid press.
In the 2021 documentary series, The Me You Can’t See, Prince Harry revealed to Oprah Winfrey that the media played a significant role in fostering racial hatred against his wife. He expressed regret over not taking a firm stand against racism earlier in his relationship with Meghan.
RECENT COMMENTS