by Jonathan P-Wright | Jan 18, 2024 | Latest, Music News |
R. Kelly, the famed artist, recently claimed oblivion to a lawsuit that led to a court awarding six women a whopping $10.5 million. The lawsuit was in response to alleged threats that resulted in the cancellation of the docuseries screening, Surviving R. Kelly.
The Unnoticed Lawsuit
According to court documents that TMZ managed to acquire, Kelly insisted that he would have contested the lawsuit if he had been cognizant of it. The singer pointed out that he was overwhelmed with legal issues and had to modify his legal counsel. Amidst these changes, this particular lawsuit might have slipped through unnoticed.
“In case he did receive the lawsuit, Kelly argues his linguistic capability is equivalent to a grade schooler’s, and he heavily relies on his lawyers for an understandable explanation.”
This statement underscored the artist’s alleged inability to fully comprehend the lawsuit’s implications.
Allegations and Threats
R. Kelly, along with his then-manager Donnell Russell, were accused of persistently threatening six women who were featured in the Surviving R. Kelly docuseries. The duo also reportedly intimidated the women and the docuseries producers with potential legal action.
“The lawsuit alleges that a Dec. 2018 screening in New York City was called off after someone from Kelly’s team threatened to ‘shoot up’ the venue.”
The Blame Game
In the latest court documents, Kelly disputed Russell’s role as his manager and suggested that if Russell was the source of the threat leading to the screening’s termination, the blame should be placed solely on Russell.
“He did that for his own reasons,” Kelly stated, distancing himself from Russell’s actions.
Russell was consequently sentenced to a year in prison due to the lawsuit’s fallout.
A Heavy Sentence
R. Kelly was handed a 30-year prison sentence in 2022 after being found guilty of racketeering and sex trafficking. Additionally, he was sentenced to 20 more years for child sex crimes, marking a dramatic fall from grace for the celebrated artist.
Conclusion
The R. Kelly saga underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in the music industry. Despite the artist’s claims of unawareness, the court’s ruling speaks volumes about the alleged misconduct. As music news continues to unfold, we can only hope for justice and a safer environment for artists and fans alike.
As the R. Kelly story continues to unfold, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency within the music industry. Regardless of the artist’s claims of unawareness, the court’s ruling sends a clear message about the allegations of misconduct. As this music news continues to unfold, we can only hope for justice and a safer environment for artists and fans alike.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Dec 18, 2023 | Latest, Music News |
A rapper’s life is not always about the glamour and fame. Sometimes, it’s about ordinary moments that turn into extraordinary creative inspirations. ASAP Rocky, one of the most influential figures in the world of hip-hop, recently proved this with his latest short film for Beats, capturing a unique studio session-interrupting diaper run.
A Sneak Peek into the Life of ASAP Rocky
In the world of music, ASAP Rocky has always been known for his unique style and fearless approach. His latest short film, a collaboration with Beats, highlights an aspect of his life that many fans might find unexpected – his dedication as a father, and how it intertwines with his work.
The Short Film
The short film, titled “Iconic Sound,” is Rocky’s brand commercial directorial debut. The film offers a glimpse into his life at home in the midst of a recording session. The session is interrupted when Rihanna, Rocky’s partner, alerts him to a shortage of diapers, sending him on an unexpected errand. The diaper run, though seemingly mundane, becomes an intriguing adventure with Rocky at the helm. The run to the AWGE Bodega is done in true Rocky style, with him sporting a pair of Beats Studio Pro headphones. This particular detail reinforces the intertwining of his music and personal life.
The “RIOT (Rowdy Pipe’n)” Track
Produced by Pharrell, the track “RIOT (Rowdy Pipe’n)” is the musical backdrop for this unorthodox journey. The song features multiple mentions of Rihanna, adding another layer of personal touch to an already intimate narrative.
ASAP Rocky subtly introduces Rihanna into his verses, adding a touch of romance to his gritty rap. For instance, in the first verse, Rocky smoothly drops the line, “My wife is erotic, I’m smokin’ exotic.” Further along in the second verse, he declares, “Pass on the sweetie, I got me a RiRi.” These lyrics not only confirm their relationship but also emphasize the deep affection he holds for her. The song also mentions a “new collab with my baby mom,” further solidifying the bond between Rocky and Rihanna. This mention has sparked interest and speculation among fans about possible future collaborations.
This unique combination of personal life, music, and commercial artistry has created a buzz in the music news circles. The short film and the track “RIOT (Rowdy Pipe’n)” together offer a fresh perspective on ASAP Rocky as an artist and as an individual. The boldness of Rocky’s narrative, combined with the relatable depiction of everyday life, adds a new dimension to his image. It unravels a story of a man who is not just a rapper, but also a partner and a father, fearlessly blending his personal and professional life.
In a world where celebrities often portray a polished version of their lives, ASAP Rocky’s candid representation is like a breath of fresh air. This exploration of his life, through the short film and the track “RIOT (Rowdy Pipe’n),” offers a deeper understanding of the man behind the music. It’s a testament to his nonconformity and individuality, capturing the essence of what makes ASAP Rocky a true icon in the music industry.
by Kareshia Prioleau | Nov 15, 2023 | Latest, Music News |
Two years post the alleged incident, ASAP Relli, former member of the ASAP Mob, finally broke his silence in court about the terrifying night he claims he was shot by ASAP Rocky.
The Unveiling of an Unimaginable Truth
Terell Ephron, who was previously known as ASAP Relli, took the stand in a Los Angeles courtroom to retell the bone-chilling events that took place on that fateful night. His testimony was as much about the alleged assault as it was about the history of the relationship he shared with the superstar rapper, ASAP Rocky.
Ephron brought to light the evolution of his rapport with Rocky, describing how the camaraderie between the two gradually morphed into a tense rivalry as Rocky’s fame began to rise.
2. Rocky’s Unfulfilled Promise
The breaking point arrived when Rocky committed to aiding the family of a deceased member of the Mob, a promise Ephron claims Rocky never honored. This act of betrayal, according to Ephron, instigated the events that led to the alleged assault.
On November 6, 2021, Ephron received a demanding phone call from Rocky, inquiring about his whereabouts. This call led to a meeting between the two at a Los Angeles hotel. Ephron alleges that Rocky, accompanied by several men, brandished a firearm at him. According to Ephron’s testimony, Rocky threatened him by placing the gun against his stomach and stating, “I’ll kill you right now.”
The Aftermath
Despite the immediate threat, Ephron was not shot at that moment. However, he claims that the sound of gunshots filled the air shortly after they split ways. He felt a burning sensation in his hand and alleges that he was shot four times by Rocky before the rapper fled the scene. Ephron chose not to report to the police until the following day, out of fear for his life.
Evidence Presented in Court
According to a report by Rolling Stone, a grainy video of the alleged shooting was presented in court. This footage, despite its lack of clarity, could potentially play a significant role in the case.
The video portrays a group of men embroiled in a scuffle at a Los Angeles intersection. While the shooting is not explicitly visible without enhancement, the court observed one individual sprinting away from the scene as the rest dispersed in all directions. Ephron, commenting on the video’s quality, said, “It’s a little blurry, but you can make out everybody.”
The Defamation Lawsuit
In addition to the assault case, Ephron has filed a defamation lawsuit against both Rocky and his attorney, Joe Tacopina. Ephron alleges that Tacopina initiated a media campaign that painted him as a dishonest opportunist, resulting in death threats and public humiliation.
Tacopina, in response to the lawsuit, stated, “This is actually nothing more than a publicity stunt which is going to backfire badly. I more than welcome this lawsuit especially because the resolution of the criminal case has not happened yet.”
In a heated moment during the court proceedings, Ephron addressed Tacopina directly, stating, “You’re just paid to be here. Me and this man knew each other for years.”
Rocky’s Stand
Rocky, who was present during Ephron’s testimony, has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The hearing is set to resume on Thursday, November 9.
In this era of Music News filled with controversies and shocking revelations, this case stands as a testament to the dark side of fame and the potential consequences of unresolved conflicts. Only time will tell the outcome of this legal battle and the future of both ASAP Relli and ASAP Rocky.
by April Harley | Sep 19, 2025 | Black Owned Business, Business News, Hot on TV, Latest |
From Rap Icon to Boardroom Visionary
Sean Jay-Z Carter’s life is more than hip-hop—it’s a case study in visionary entrepreneurship. Rising from Brooklyn’s Marcy Projects, he has built an empire that spans music, fashion, sports, tech, and luxury brands. Now, with Roc Nation partnering with Caesars Entertainment and SL Green Realty, he is aiming to anchor a $5.4 billion Caesars Palace casino in Times Square. (Variety)
Jobs and Economic Growth at the Crossroads of the World
The project promises thousands of union construction jobs and permanent careers across hospitality, retail, and live entertainment. Times Square is already a tourism magnet; adding a world-class casino amplifies the draw, creating an economic multiplier effect for hotels, restaurants, and small businesses. (AP News)
Tourism, Taxes, and Broadway Synergy
Critics argue Broadway and gaming can’t coexist, but Jay-Z’s Roc Nation insists the casino would boost Broadway ticket sales through cross-promotion and tourism packages. The projected tax windfall could funnel billions into public services. (Rolling Stone)
The Roc Nation Difference
Unlike conventional developers, Roc Nation brings culture, credibility, and global influence. This is about more than gaming—it’s about programming festivals, live performances, and cultural experiences. That cultural dimension is what makes the project transformative. (Vanity Fair)
Conclusion: Betting on Jay-Z is Betting on New York
Jay-Z has repeatedly proven that bold visions pay off. This casino could be the boldest yet—an investment in jobs, culture, and New York’s global stature.
by Voshawn Johnson | Sep 17, 2025 | Latest, Music News |
Why Joe Budden’s Mic Matters
The Joe Budden Podcast is where hip-hop’s biggest conversations become smarter, funnier, and more accountable. Joe and the crew treat the culture like a living institution—balancing humor with rigor, and barbershop energy with newsroom discipline. When they publish, discourse shifts. If you want the pulse, you lock in here.
Do the smart thing: watch the Joe Budden Podcast on YouTube here and tap in with the conversation firsthand.
A Masterclass In Long-Form Storytelling
In a clip-drunk era, JBP doubles down on depth. The pacing lets arguments breathe, lets context build, and gives artists/industry figures fair treatment. That’s why episodes have replay value and clips travel—substance first, virality second.
Fresh From Ep. 856 “Pillow Talk”
This week’s drop crystallizes the show’s range. The room unpacks Young Thug interrogation clips and what they mean for Atlanta’s future (30:09, 56:38), debates “pillow talking” etiquette after an off-mic dust-up (1:15:00), and reacts to Cardi B’s testimony (1:34:00). Joe weighs in on the Jussie Smollett documentary (1:44:19); there’s programming talk with Funk Flex’s Hot 97 timeslot change (1:56:21); then new-music energy with Joey Bada$$ & Westside Gunn album drops (2:09:48). Late-episode gems include Joe calling Kehlani’s “Folded” the R&B song of the summer (2:52:55), a Mario remix reaction (2:55:05), and quick-hit cultural notes from ILoveMakonnen turning chef (3:01:28) to Cracker Barrel’s logo tweak (3:07:57) and a heated Micah Parsons trade debate (3:12:40). (Apple Podcasts)
Network Vision, Creator Integrity
The Joe Budden Podcast Network proves creator-owned media can scale without losing its voice. Independence keeps the takes fearless; editorial consistency keeps the trust.
Why You Should Hit Play Today
If you’re an artist, manager, journalist, or fan who wants context—not clickbait—this episode is required listening. It’s funny, layered, and rooted in love for the craft.
Call to Action: Lock in with the episode and watch on YouTube here. Share a timestamp, argue your take, keep the discourse honest.
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