#MAGFAB: Victoria Monét Cover COSMOPOLITAN’s Spring 2024 Issue ‘The Sound of Now’
In the midst of a career-defining moment, the Grammy-nominated musician and Cosmo cover star is ready to speak about the doubters, the Ariana Grande comparisons, and the power of persistence.
Victoria on MTV allegedly saying that it was “too early in her story” for her to perform at the 2023 VMAs: “I try not to take it personally. Someone who doesn’t have the full scope of this story might think, It’s too early. But people who are in the know know the songwriting. They know the girl group I was in in 2009. They know I was an independent artist, supporting myself financially on tours. I had to wait for this big moment, and when I say ‘wait,’ I don’t mean sitting on my hands—I had to climb up a hill for a really long time. It’s giving Mount Everest.”
Victoria on writing her hit song “On My Mama” to deal with postpartum depression: “While writing ‘On My Mama,’ I was just trying to transform my thoughts. It’s a crazy juxtaposition: You’re supposed to be in one of the happiest moments of your life, but you’re sad and you can’t really explain it or fake it. It feels like a positive affirmation song to me. I want that subconsciously with a lot of my music.”
Victoria on the internet accusing collaborator Ariana Grande of stealing her sound: “It’s weird that people are comparing [Ariana Grande and I] and are surprised that a song would sound like something that I wrote—because I did write it. If the roles were reversed, if Ariana was a songwriter first, you may find me trying to hit a whistle tone or something. It’s a moot point to me, so I just let the internet do their thing.”
Victoria on staying focused on doing more of her thing: When people are singing along to my music, I want them to be manifesting great things in their lives. You can sing or speak your way through hard times and turn a new leaf.”
The Spring 2024 issue of Cosmopolitan—The Sound of Now Issue—hits newsstands nationwide on February 13.
#RHOA: Kandi Burruss Exiting The Real Housewives of Atlanta: "I’m Going to Take a Moment"
Kandi Burruss shared some big news this weekend when she revealed that she is exiting The Real Housewives of Atlanta. The multihyphenate artist and entrepreneur announced the news on Sunday, Feb. 4, confirming that she was leaving RHOA after 14 seasons on the cast.
"I decided I’m not coming back this year," Kandi shared with Variety on Sunday, Feb. 4 while walking the red carpet at the Grammy Awards. "I’m going to take a break, I’m going to take a moment… I’m not coming back this year."
The news comes after the most recent season of RHOA, Season 15, wrapped up back in September 2023.
As Bravoholics will recall, Kandi joined RHOA back in Season 2 (that was back in 2009, for those keeping count). Over the course of her decade-plus stint on the series, she's taken fans inside the many, many changes in her personal and professional life.
When RHOA viewers first met Kandi, she was a single mom to her daughter, Riley Burruss (who is now in college!), who was also balancing her career as a music industry star, having not only been a member of Xscape but also a solo artist as well as singer-songwriter of such hits as TLC's "No Scrubs," among other hits.
Later, she would meet and marry Todd Tucker and together they would welcome two more kids into their blended family, a son, Ace, and a daughter, Blaze (Todd is also a father to a daughter from a previous relationship, Kaela).
Kandi expanded her empire during her time on RHOA into many businesses from producing to acting to the restaurant industry and other spicier endeavors with her Bedroom Kandi line.
Her time on the series also gave fans an inside look at her friendships in the Atlanta group and the many changing dynamics she's experienced with her friends over the years.
In addition to RHOA, Kandi has showed the many sides of her life across several Bravo series and spinoffs, including two series that followed her career with Xscape (most recently SWV & XSCAPE: The Queens of R&B). Kandi also appeared on Kandi & The Gang, which followed her staff at the Old Lady Gang restaurant in Atlanta, including her family members (like Mama Joyce!) who work there, and all the drama that comes with it.
Watch The Real Housewives of Atlanta on Peacock and the Bravo App.
#NewMusic from Eric Roberson Releases Video For Latest Single “Here For You”
Soul crooner Eric Roberson has just released the video for his latest single “Here For You”.
The song released last month and was written by Eric Roberson and Jairus “JMo” Mozee and produced by Eric Roberson, Brett Baker, Smurf and Jairus “JMo” Mozee.
The animated visuals for the song were directed by Eric Roberson and Steven Jon. Roberson adds:
“The “Here For You” video is a complete labor of love. It took a lot of time and effort to do, but was worth it. Everything in the video already existed, but had to be cut out and meticulously placed for this purpose. The video embodies the same principles as the song. The words “I love you” have been said a billion times. So, why is that phrase still special? It’s not just the words…it’s the history, the moment, the feelings, the delivery and how it’s received that define the depth of these three words. I couldn’t be happier with the completion of the video. Hopefully when you witness it, you see that it is here for you.”
This is the latest installment from Roberson in giving new music to fans frequently. Next week, he will release the new single called “You”.
WATCH HERE
Also in February, Eric Roberson will kick-off his “30th Anniversary Tour” starring Eric Roberson. The tour will kick-off in Pittsburgh, PA, on February 10th, followed by Eric’s return to The Kennedy Center with “An Evening of Love,” on Valentine’s Day. For additional tour dates, visit EricRobersonMusic.com.
#HipHopNews: Megan Thee Stallion finally responds to Nicki Minaj’s ‘Big Foot’ diss
Megan Thee Stallion has decided to break her silence and address Nicki Minaj’s diss song “Big Foot” and ongoing social media attacks after the release of Meg’s song “Hiss.”
On Thursday (February 1), the Houston Hottie took to the popular live radio app Stationhead to playfully threaten Minaj by telling her, “Don’t make me call Roc Nation.” The taunt clearly references Nicki’s claims that the powerhouse label, which serves as Megan’s management team, has resorted to using bots to amplify “Hiss” and hired a social media team to throw dirt on her name online.
“Spending SOOOOOOOO MUCH MONEY. [crying emoji] but she’s the lil broke independent artist,” Nicki started before calling out Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez. “Desiree, you gotta let it go, baby. The world knows she’s a– & can’t rap. Stop fkng trying to make fetch happen. #BigFOOT. I just put out a song with NOOOOOO promo. No video. It’s alrdy #2.”
“On the next song I delve into all the ppl Desiree allegedly fired for unknown reasons…other things as well. so many ppl were blind sighted & hurt by her,” she continued. “Allegedly. She’s willing to go broke to try to replace me…? Fix it JESUS. #GoodFoot”
For Meg’s part, she seems not to think much of Minaj’s reply song, even teasing a celebration if “Hiss” continues to grow.
“If we go number one, b—-, I might put the straw back in the Hennessy,” Meg teased in reference to “Hiss” threatening to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The quip was also a direct response to a line from “Big Foot” in which Minaj rapped, “Your flow is such a bore/Drinkin’ a bottle of Henny through a straw.”
Meg’s Stationhead appearance marks the first time she has directly addressed the ongoing feud with Minaj since the latter released “Big Foot,” a song she has been heavily criticized for because of references to Megan’s deceased mother and numerous taunts about the shooting incident Megan experienced at the hands of Tory Lanez.
Minaj has also been forced to deny rumors that she is addicted to cocaine after fans took note of her somewhat unhinged and, at times, incoherent multi-hour live streams just after “Hiss” was released.
BREAKING: King Charles of Great Britain Has Been Diagnosed With Cancer
King Charles III, 75, has been diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace announced Monday.
"During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted," the palace said in an emailed statement. "Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer."
The statement also did not specify what stage the cancer was found.
Separately, Buckingham Palace said Charles did not have prostate cancer.
Charles ascended the throne last May after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned until her death at the age of 96. Aaron Chown / Pool via Getty Images
The news comes a week after both Kate and King Charles were discharged from a private London clinic after medical procedures. The king underwent a “corrective procedure” for an enlarged prostate, while Kate, 42, had unspecified abdominal surgery on Jan. 17.
“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties,” the statement added.
According to the statement, the king wanted to share his diagnosis in part to avoid speculation on his condition but also "in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer."
Charles is grateful for the swift intervention of his medical team and their expert care, according to Buckingham Palace.
No further details are being shared about his treatment or prognosis, a palace spokesperson said, but the king returned to London on Monday to begin out-patient treatment.
Charles ascended the throne last May in a coronation ceremony held months after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. Elizabeth reigned until her death at the age of 96 in September 2022. She was Britain's longest-reigning monarch with 70 years on the throne.
Kate is still in recovery, but her husband, Prince William, is set to return to his royal duties by attending the London’s Air Ambulance Charity Gala Dinner on Wednesday.
Kensington Palace previously said the Princess of Wales is unlikely to return to her royal duties before Easter, on March 31. There was no date specified for the king’s return to duties.
Buckingham Palace noted that many of the king's planned engagement will have to postponed or canceled, apologizing in advance to anyone inconvenienced as a result. Charles' wife, Queen Camilla, will continue with her full public duties as he undergoes treatment.
Rapper Killer Mike escorted from Grammys venue and arrested after alleged altercation
Rapper Killer Mike was led out of the Grammys in handcuffs and arrested on Sunday following a confrontation during the pre-televised portion of the awards show, authorities said.
The Los Angeles Police Department said a man was detained Sunday afternoon in connection with a “physical altercation” and taken to Central Division, the department said on X.
Police identified the man as Michael Render, which is Killer Mike's real name.
In the LAPD post, police said the altercation occurred in the 700 block of Chick Hearn Court, which is where Crypto.com Arena is located.
He was booked on suspicion of misdemeanor battery, police said. The artist was released on his own recognizance at about 8:37 p.m. PST with a Feb. 29 court date, jail records showed.
Additional details about the alleged altercation have not been released.
Earlier in the afternoon, Killer Mike won three Grammy awards at the pre-show Premiere Ceremony, for best rap performance, best rap song and best rap album.
Jay-Z defends Beyonce, calls out Recording Academy at Grammys
-Jay-Z stirred up some controversy as he accepted a special award at the Grammys on Sunday night.
The singer and producer received the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award, and during his acceptance speech, Jay-Z said he always wanted the Grammys to honor the artists that most influence culture.
But he criticized the Recording Academy for not always getting it right.
Jay-Z then looked at his wife in the audience and criticized the academy for not honoring Beyonce over the years with album of the year — even though she has won the most Grammys.
“I don’t want to embarrass this young lady, but she has more Grammys than everyone and never won album of the year,” Jay-Z said. “So even by your own metrics, that doesn’t work. Think about that - the most Grammys, never won album of the year. That doesn’t work.”
He added, “You know, some of you, some of you gonna go home tonight and feel like you’ve been robbed. Some of you may get robbed. Some of you don’t belong in the category.”
Duane Martin Proposes To Model GF Ashley Marie Jones During Helicopter Ride
Duane Martin went above and beyond to propose to his girlfriend, Ashley Marie Jones. The actor, who portrays Detective Ben Baines on "L.A.'s Finest", popped the big question when taking his now-fiancee on a helicopter ride.
The 58-year-old announced the couple's engagement on Saturday, February 3, by sharing a compilation video of the model in different settings. They included modeling shoots, sailing on a boat, and attending concerts by Smokey Robinson and Beyonce Knowles.
In the caption, Duane wrote, "She said YES [ring and red heart emoji] Meet my fiancee. God don't make people like her in 3s." He went on to gush, "She's rare. She's a heart opener. Her spirit is cherry. I'm hugging gratitude tight."
Ashley, meanwhile, took to her own page to give fans a glimpse at the sweet proposal. In the clip, Ashley looked shocked and excited at the same time as the "All of Us" alum got down on one knee.
"This moment is surreal... Wow, 2.2.24. A birthday surprise! Y'all, I'm a fiancee!!!" she exclaimed in the accompanying message. "To such an amazing man. I value our connection; it's at high altitude, high frequency, and filled with lots of laughter @duane_martin.
Duane was previously married to actress Tisha Campbell for over two decades. The former couple, who shares 22-year-old Xen Martin and 14-year-old Ezekiel Czar Martin together, confirmed their split in 2018.
After a two-year divorce process, Tisha dropped "Martin" from her last name. "Ok, so I just got my divorce decree. I know that took forever, and I just went to the Social Security office, and I changed my name back to Tisha Campbell," she announced on Instagram at the time. "On my dad's birthday. Nonetheless."
#BoxOfficeNews: 'Argylle' Shoots To No. 1 At Box Office
Not even Matthew Vaughn and a stellar cast can defrost the heart of moviegoers. "Argylle", a spy action comedy from the filmmaker, tanks at the North American box office on yet another sleepy weekend.
The pricey film opened to an estimated $18 million from 3,605 cinemas against its reported $200-250 million budget. It doesn't fare better overseas, where the movie debuted to an estimated $17.3 million from 78 markets, for a global start of $35.3 million.
Despite the slow opening, "Argylle" still wins the weekend domestically, thanks to little competition as there's no other big studio's movie released over the weekend. The weak opening number, however, is a huge disappointment considering the movie's star-studded cast that includes Bryce Dallas Howard, Henry Cavill, Sam Rockwell, Bryan Cranston, Dua Lipa, Ariana DeBose and Samuel L. Jackson among others.
"This is a weak opening for a new action comedy," says David A. Gross, who runs the movie consulting firm Franchise Entertainment Research. "For an original [action comedy] to break through, the humor has to jump off the screen. That's not happening here."
Coming from Vaughn, who has had experience in the genre with his works on "The Kingsman" series and "X-Men: First Class", "Argylle" wasn't loved by critics. It received only 35% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, while audiences gave it a C+ grade on CinemaScore.
The other new nationwide offering at the domestic box office this weekend is the Christian drama series "The Chosen: S4 Episodes 1-3", which lands on the second place. The first three episodes of the fourth season played in 2,263 theaters and grossed an estimated $6 million within its first weekend.
"The Beekeeper" falls from No. 2 to the third place with approximately $5.3 million after being defeated by "Mean Girls (2024)" for the throne last week. "Wonka" also drops one place to No. 4 with an estimated $4.7 million, followed by "Migration" at No. 5 with approximately $4.1 million.
Top 10 of North American Box Office (Feb. 02-04, 2024):
"Argylle" - $18 million
"The Chosen: S4 Episodes 1-3" - $6 million
"The Beekeeper" - $5.3 million
"Wonka" - $4.8 million
"Migration" - $4.1 million
"Mean Girls (2024)" - $4 million
"Anyone But You" - $3.5 million
"American Fiction" - $2.3 million
"Poor Things" - $2.1 million
"Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" - $2 million
Drake Deemed 'Drama Queen' For Seemingly Shading Rihanna During Florida Concert
Drake was trolled by many social media users for seemingly throwing a shade at Rihanna. The "Fear of Heights" rapper found himself in hot water after refusing to deliver his collaborative song with his former girlfriend.
On Sunday, February 4, the 37-year-old hip-hop artist became a hot topic on X, formerly known as Twitter, after one particular user let out a video featuring his alleged shade at RiRi. In a tweet, the user penned, "Drake says he no longer sings his work collaboration with rihanna anymore, thoughts??"
The social media post led other X users to candidly voice their opinions on the matter. In the replies section of the tweet, one of them blasted the rapper, "He is such a drama queen." Another asked, "Why is Drake always fighting with women," adding a slew of crying faces emojis.
The footage itself documented Drake taking the stage at a venue in Tampa, Florida for "It's All a Blur Tour - Big as the What?" on Friday night, February 2. In the clip, he could be heard saying, "I don't sing this song anymore, but you [all] can sing it for me," when he heard his collaborative song "Work" with Rihanna was playing in the background.
Drake and Rihanna released their track "Work" back on January 27, 2016, via Westbury Road and Roc Nation. The song itself serves as the lead single of her eighth studio album titled "Anti".
Drake and Rihanna, who also have collaborative songs "Take Care", "Too Good" and "What's My Name?", sparked romance rumors back in 2009. He admitted in 2016 that she was "someone that I've been in love with since I was 22 years old." However, in 2018, she revealed that they "don't have a friendship now, but we're not enemies either."
In the midst of a career-defining moment, the Grammy-nominated musician and Cosmo cover star is ready to speak about the doubters, the Ariana Grande comparisons, and the power of persistence.
Victoria on writing her hit song “On My Mama” to deal with postpartum depression: “While writing ‘On My Mama,’ I was just trying to transform my thoughts. It’s a crazy juxtaposition: You’re supposed to be in one of the happiest moments of your life, but you’re sad and you can’t really explain it or fake it. It feels like a positive affirmation song to me. I want that subconsciously with a lot of my music.”
Victoria on staying focused on doing more of her thing: When people are singing along to my music, I want them to be manifesting great things in their lives. You can sing or speak your way through hard times and turn a new leaf.”
The Spring 2024 issue of Cosmopolitan—The Sound of Now Issue—hits newsstands nationwide on February 13.
#RHOA: Kandi Burruss Exiting The Real Housewives of Atlanta: "I’m Going to Take a Moment"
"I decided I’m not coming back this year," Kandi shared with Variety on Sunday, Feb. 4 while walking the red carpet at the Grammy Awards. "I’m going to take a break, I’m going to take a moment… I’m not coming back this year."
The news comes after the most recent season of RHOA, Season 15, wrapped up back in September 2023.
As Bravoholics will recall, Kandi joined RHOA back in Season 2 (that was back in 2009, for those keeping count). Over the course of her decade-plus stint on the series, she's taken fans inside the many, many changes in her personal and professional life.
When RHOA viewers first met Kandi, she was a single mom to her daughter, Riley Burruss (who is now in college!), who was also balancing her career as a music industry star, having not only been a member of Xscape but also a solo artist as well as singer-songwriter of such hits as TLC's "No Scrubs," among other hits.
Later, she would meet and marry Todd Tucker and together they would welcome two more kids into their blended family, a son, Ace, and a daughter, Blaze (Todd is also a father to a daughter from a previous relationship, Kaela).
Kandi expanded her empire during her time on RHOA into many businesses from producing to acting to the restaurant industry and other spicier endeavors with her Bedroom Kandi line.
Her time on the series also gave fans an inside look at her friendships in the Atlanta group and the many changing dynamics she's experienced with her friends over the years.
In addition to RHOA, Kandi has showed the many sides of her life across several Bravo series and spinoffs, including two series that followed her career with Xscape (most recently SWV & XSCAPE: The Queens of R&B). Kandi also appeared on Kandi & The Gang, which followed her staff at the Old Lady Gang restaurant in Atlanta, including her family members (like Mama Joyce!) who work there, and all the drama that comes with it.
Watch The Real Housewives of Atlanta on Peacock and the Bravo App.
#NewMusic from Eric Roberson Releases Video For Latest Single “Here For You”
Soul crooner Eric Roberson has just released the video for his latest single “Here For You”.
The song released last month and was written by Eric Roberson and Jairus “JMo” Mozee and produced by Eric Roberson, Brett Baker, Smurf and Jairus “JMo” Mozee.
The animated visuals for the song were directed by Eric Roberson and Steven Jon. Roberson adds:
“The “Here For You” video is a complete labor of love. It took a lot of time and effort to do, but was worth it. Everything in the video already existed, but had to be cut out and meticulously placed for this purpose. The video embodies the same principles as the song. The words “I love you” have been said a billion times. So, why is that phrase still special? It’s not just the words…it’s the history, the moment, the feelings, the delivery and how it’s received that define the depth of these three words. I couldn’t be happier with the completion of the video. Hopefully when you witness it, you see that it is here for you.”
This is the latest installment from Roberson in giving new music to fans frequently. Next week, he will release the new single called “You”.
WATCH HERE
Also in February, Eric Roberson will kick-off his “30th Anniversary Tour” starring Eric Roberson. The tour will kick-off in Pittsburgh, PA, on February 10th, followed by Eric’s return to The Kennedy Center with “An Evening of Love,” on Valentine’s Day. For additional tour dates, visit EricRobersonMusic.com.
#HipHopNews: Megan Thee Stallion finally responds to Nicki Minaj’s ‘Big Foot’ diss
On Thursday (February 1), the Houston Hottie took to the popular live radio app Stationhead to playfully threaten Minaj by telling her, “Don’t make me call Roc Nation.” The taunt clearly references Nicki’s claims that the powerhouse label, which serves as Megan’s management team, has resorted to using bots to amplify “Hiss” and hired a social media team to throw dirt on her name online.
“Spending SOOOOOOOO MUCH MONEY. [crying emoji] but she’s the lil broke independent artist,” Nicki started before calling out Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez. “Desiree, you gotta let it go, baby. The world knows she’s a– & can’t rap. Stop fkng trying to make fetch happen. #BigFOOT. I just put out a song with NOOOOOO promo. No video. It’s alrdy #2.”
“On the next song I delve into all the ppl Desiree allegedly fired for unknown reasons…other things as well. so many ppl were blind sighted & hurt by her,” she continued. “Allegedly. She’s willing to go broke to try to replace me…? Fix it JESUS. #GoodFoot”
For Meg’s part, she seems not to think much of Minaj’s reply song, even teasing a celebration if “Hiss” continues to grow.
“If we go number one, b—-, I might put the straw back in the Hennessy,” Meg teased in reference to “Hiss” threatening to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The quip was also a direct response to a line from “Big Foot” in which Minaj rapped, “Your flow is such a bore/Drinkin’ a bottle of Henny through a straw.”
Meg’s Stationhead appearance marks the first time she has directly addressed the ongoing feud with Minaj since the latter released “Big Foot,” a song she has been heavily criticized for because of references to Megan’s deceased mother and numerous taunts about the shooting incident Megan experienced at the hands of Tory Lanez.
Minaj has also been forced to deny rumors that she is addicted to cocaine after fans took note of her somewhat unhinged and, at times, incoherent multi-hour live streams just after “Hiss” was released.
BREAKING: King Charles of Great Britain Has Been Diagnosed With Cancer
King Charles III, 75, has been diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace announced Monday.
"During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted," the palace said in an emailed statement. "Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer."
The statement also did not specify what stage the cancer was found.
Separately, Buckingham Palace said Charles did not have prostate cancer.
Charles ascended the throne last May after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned until her death at the age of 96. Aaron Chown / Pool via Getty Images
The news comes a week after both Kate and King Charles were discharged from a private London clinic after medical procedures. The king underwent a “corrective procedure” for an enlarged prostate, while Kate, 42, had unspecified abdominal surgery on Jan. 17.
“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties,” the statement added.
According to the statement, the king wanted to share his diagnosis in part to avoid speculation on his condition but also "in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer."
Charles is grateful for the swift intervention of his medical team and their expert care, according to Buckingham Palace.
No further details are being shared about his treatment or prognosis, a palace spokesperson said, but the king returned to London on Monday to begin out-patient treatment.
Charles ascended the throne last May in a coronation ceremony held months after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. Elizabeth reigned until her death at the age of 96 in September 2022. She was Britain's longest-reigning monarch with 70 years on the throne.
Kate is still in recovery, but her husband, Prince William, is set to return to his royal duties by attending the London’s Air Ambulance Charity Gala Dinner on Wednesday.
Kensington Palace previously said the Princess of Wales is unlikely to return to her royal duties before Easter, on March 31. There was no date specified for the king’s return to duties.
Buckingham Palace noted that many of the king's planned engagement will have to postponed or canceled, apologizing in advance to anyone inconvenienced as a result. Charles' wife, Queen Camilla, will continue with her full public duties as he undergoes treatment.
Rapper Killer Mike escorted from Grammys venue and arrested after alleged altercation
The Los Angeles Police Department said a man was detained Sunday afternoon in connection with a “physical altercation” and taken to Central Division, the department said on X.
Police identified the man as Michael Render, which is Killer Mike's real name.
In the LAPD post, police said the altercation occurred in the 700 block of Chick Hearn Court, which is where Crypto.com Arena is located.
He was booked on suspicion of misdemeanor battery, police said. The artist was released on his own recognizance at about 8:37 p.m. PST with a Feb. 29 court date, jail records showed.
Additional details about the alleged altercation have not been released.
Earlier in the afternoon, Killer Mike won three Grammy awards at the pre-show Premiere Ceremony, for best rap performance, best rap song and best rap album.
Jay-Z defends Beyonce, calls out Recording Academy at Grammys
-Jay-Z stirred up some controversy as he accepted a special award at the Grammys on Sunday night.
The singer and producer received the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award, and during his acceptance speech, Jay-Z said he always wanted the Grammys to honor the artists that most influence culture.
But he criticized the Recording Academy for not always getting it right.
Jay-Z then looked at his wife in the audience and criticized the academy for not honoring Beyonce over the years with album of the year — even though she has won the most Grammys.
“I don’t want to embarrass this young lady, but she has more Grammys than everyone and never won album of the year,” Jay-Z said. “So even by your own metrics, that doesn’t work. Think about that - the most Grammys, never won album of the year. That doesn’t work.”
He added, “You know, some of you, some of you gonna go home tonight and feel like you’ve been robbed. Some of you may get robbed. Some of you don’t belong in the category.”
Duane Martin Proposes To Model GF Ashley Marie Jones During Helicopter Ride
Duane Martin went above and beyond to propose to his girlfriend, Ashley Marie Jones. The actor, who portrays Detective Ben Baines on "L.A.'s Finest", popped the big question when taking his now-fiancee on a helicopter ride.
The 58-year-old announced the couple's engagement on Saturday, February 3, by sharing a compilation video of the model in different settings. They included modeling shoots, sailing on a boat, and attending concerts by Smokey Robinson and Beyonce Knowles.
In the caption, Duane wrote, "She said YES [ring and red heart emoji] Meet my fiancee. God don't make people like her in 3s." He went on to gush, "She's rare. She's a heart opener. Her spirit is cherry. I'm hugging gratitude tight."
Ashley, meanwhile, took to her own page to give fans a glimpse at the sweet proposal. In the clip, Ashley looked shocked and excited at the same time as the "All of Us" alum got down on one knee.
"This moment is surreal... Wow, 2.2.24. A birthday surprise! Y'all, I'm a fiancee!!!" she exclaimed in the accompanying message. "To such an amazing man. I value our connection; it's at high altitude, high frequency, and filled with lots of laughter @duane_martin.
Duane was previously married to actress Tisha Campbell for over two decades. The former couple, who shares 22-year-old Xen Martin and 14-year-old Ezekiel Czar Martin together, confirmed their split in 2018.
After a two-year divorce process, Tisha dropped "Martin" from her last name. "Ok, so I just got my divorce decree. I know that took forever, and I just went to the Social Security office, and I changed my name back to Tisha Campbell," she announced on Instagram at the time. "On my dad's birthday. Nonetheless."
#BoxOfficeNews: 'Argylle' Shoots To No. 1 At Box Office
The pricey film opened to an estimated $18 million from 3,605 cinemas against its reported $200-250 million budget. It doesn't fare better overseas, where the movie debuted to an estimated $17.3 million from 78 markets, for a global start of $35.3 million.
Despite the slow opening, "Argylle" still wins the weekend domestically, thanks to little competition as there's no other big studio's movie released over the weekend. The weak opening number, however, is a huge disappointment considering the movie's star-studded cast that includes Bryce Dallas Howard, Henry Cavill, Sam Rockwell, Bryan Cranston, Dua Lipa, Ariana DeBose and Samuel L. Jackson among others.
"This is a weak opening for a new action comedy," says David A. Gross, who runs the movie consulting firm Franchise Entertainment Research. "For an original [action comedy] to break through, the humor has to jump off the screen. That's not happening here."
Coming from Vaughn, who has had experience in the genre with his works on "The Kingsman" series and "X-Men: First Class", "Argylle" wasn't loved by critics. It received only 35% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, while audiences gave it a C+ grade on CinemaScore.
The other new nationwide offering at the domestic box office this weekend is the Christian drama series "The Chosen: S4 Episodes 1-3", which lands on the second place. The first three episodes of the fourth season played in 2,263 theaters and grossed an estimated $6 million within its first weekend.
"The Beekeeper" falls from No. 2 to the third place with approximately $5.3 million after being defeated by "Mean Girls (2024)" for the throne last week. "Wonka" also drops one place to No. 4 with an estimated $4.7 million, followed by "Migration" at No. 5 with approximately $4.1 million.
Top 10 of North American Box Office (Feb. 02-04, 2024):
"Argylle" - $18 million
"The Chosen: S4 Episodes 1-3" - $6 million
"The Beekeeper" - $5.3 million
"Wonka" - $4.8 million
"Migration" - $4.1 million
"Mean Girls (2024)" - $4 million
"Anyone But You" - $3.5 million
"American Fiction" - $2.3 million
"Poor Things" - $2.1 million
"Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" - $2 million
Drake Deemed 'Drama Queen' For Seemingly Shading Rihanna During Florida Concert
On Sunday, February 4, the 37-year-old hip-hop artist became a hot topic on X, formerly known as Twitter, after one particular user let out a video featuring his alleged shade at RiRi. In a tweet, the user penned, "Drake says he no longer sings his work collaboration with rihanna anymore, thoughts??"
The social media post led other X users to candidly voice their opinions on the matter. In the replies section of the tweet, one of them blasted the rapper, "He is such a drama queen." Another asked, "Why is Drake always fighting with women," adding a slew of crying faces emojis.
The footage itself documented Drake taking the stage at a venue in Tampa, Florida for "It's All a Blur Tour - Big as the What?" on Friday night, February 2. In the clip, he could be heard saying, "I don't sing this song anymore, but you [all] can sing it for me," when he heard his collaborative song "Work" with Rihanna was playing in the background.
Drake and Rihanna released their track "Work" back on January 27, 2016, via Westbury Road and Roc Nation. The song itself serves as the lead single of her eighth studio album titled "Anti".
Drake and Rihanna, who also have collaborative songs "Take Care", "Too Good" and "What's My Name?", sparked romance rumors back in 2009. He admitted in 2016 that she was "someone that I've been in love with since I was 22 years old." However, in 2018, she revealed that they "don't have a friendship now, but we're not enemies either."
‘Sweetly Seasoned’ food truck sparks backlash over massive $4,000 donation from Keith Lee
The internet is outraged after the owner of a food truck failed to split a $4,000 tip given by TikTok star Keith Lee when he specifically asked her to share it with two other people.
Keith Lee has risen to fame as TikTok’s resident celebrity food reviewer. The mixed martial artist turned internet icon is known for his reviews of small-time restaurants around the United States, often giving them a much-needed boost in foot traffic.
However, some of Lee’s culinary endeavors have resulted in major drama, such as his infamous visit to Atlanta, Georgia, which saw the internet explode with debates around the city’s restaurants that are often rife with over-the-top rules and difficult service.
Now, another Keith Lee restaurant review has sparked a public outcry after giving out a hefty tip that wasn’t shared in the way he intended.
On January 31, Lee visited the ‘Sweetly Seasoned’ food truck in North Dallas, Texas at the request of the owner’s son. While Lee generally seemed to like the food, he also had feedback for the business: namely, that they ramp up their marketing and get more hands in the kitchen.
At the end of his video, Lee prayed with the truck’s owner, Kim Viverette, and told her to charge his card for $4,000 with some specific instructions: Give $1K to a barber doing hair outside the food truck and another $1K to a woman doing braids, while $2,000 were to go to Viverette, herself.
That’s not all; Lee even paid for $300 worth of orders behind him. However, it doesn’t appear as though Viverette honored Lee’s request, nor gave out $300 worth of free plates.
Comments are currently flooding Lee’s ‘Sweetly Seasoned’ review video claiming that Viverette kept all the cash for herself… but the owner’s son, Trey, had a different story to tell.
In a video of his own, Trey argued that the barber couldn’t show up to give haircuts for free, but still wanted the $1K Lee offered. Trey pointed out that Lee had offered the cash to allow him to “cut everybody’s hair for free,” and instead wanted to give another barber that money who could be there to provide his services.
Trey also claimed that the woman doing braids, who is apparently the barber’s sister, didn’t want her $1K, knowing the “situation” Trey’s mother was in with the food truck – but later demanded her brother get paid the $1K he was promised.
Kim Viverette then posted a video discussing the situation, wherein she claimed that she did not know the braider or the barber whatsoever, reiterating that they were not part of her business.
On top of that, Kim claimed that the braider already had an appointment scheduled. According to Kim, the braider asked her client to come to the food truck because Keith Lee would be there — so the situation appeared different from how it really was.
“I built this business from the ground up. Me and my son. And for her to even think, because she called somebody out there just to braid her hair, that she deserves a thousand dollars?” Kim said. “…Now, I would love to do the right thing, and I feel like I did do the right thing.”
Both Kim and her son’s videos have been met with ample backlash over the situation, with commenters demanding that they pay up — but Kim says that the only person getting paid is her son, saying “what he has going on with his friends has nothing to do with me or my business.”
Keith Lee weighs in on the Sweetly Seasoned fiasco & the food truck changed their minds
Keith wasted no time addressing the controversy, stating that he believed that Kim was “100% wrong” in her decision to keep all of the money.
Eventually, the food truck released a statement reassuring the public that the funds had now been distributed to the other employees, as Keith Lee intended his donation to be used.
Usher says his Super Bowl halftime show is bigger than his music legacy
When Usher hits the stage for what is sure to be a jaw-dropping 13-minute halftime show on Super Bowl Sunday (Feb. 11), he will be doing so in honor of all of the Black artists who helped pave the way for him to reach stardom.
With a career spanning three decades, the entertainer hopes that his performance will make those who have impacted his career most feel seen. “I didn’t start where I am now, and I didn’t get there by myself, so everybody that has been apart of it, I’m carrying them with me,” he told “Good Morning America” reporter Kelly Carter in a new interview about the career feat on Friday (Feb. 2). “All of my fans, my loved ones, the people who, you know, may have felt like they have been forgotten — they haven’t — I’m carrying you right with me when I walk on that stage that night,” he continued.
Though still tight-lipped about special guests set to join him on stage, Usher shared that the momentous occasion — that likely almost every artist aspires to reach — is bigger than just celebrating his own legacy. “To have R&B have the main stage at the Super Bowl, it’s a major thing for me. I think about what our country has kind of represented for Black artists, you know, having to, at some point, go through kitchens to even be able to perform for an audience. They had to leave back through that same door, you know, fearing for their lives as they went to the next state to do the same thing. So, I’m coming through the front door with this one,” said the global music icon. “I think about all of the R&B performers who I carry in this moment.”
Usher is set to release his ninth studio album, Coming Home, days ahead of the Super Bowl on Feb. 9. “I just want to make something that’s going to move the needle… I think it’s a love letter in some ways and a reminder that no matter how far you may go, you will find your way back home eventually,” he said about the project, which is his first LP in eight years. Thus far, he has released two singles, “Good Good” and “Ruin,” which came out on Friday.
Comedian Shane Gillis, 21 Savage Booked for ‘SNL’
After a shortened 2022-23 season, Saturday Night Live returned a bit later than usual to kick off its 2023-24 run.
The writers strike affected both the end of last season and the start of season 49; the end of the labor action on Sept. 25 meant a mid-October start for SNL — with former castmember Pete Davidson hosting — rather than the late September or early October premiere the show usually has. (The cast is covered under a different SAG-AFTRA contract than the one actors are currently striking against, so they can perform without crossing picket lines.)
The show’s cast returned intact from last season, with James Austin Johnson and Sarah Sherman moving up from featured players to repertory players. Chloe Troast joined the cast as a featured player.
It was revealed on Dec. 16 that Jacob Elordi will be hosting the sketch comedy show’s first episode in 2024 with musical guest Reneé Rapp.
On Nov. 29, it was announced that alum Kate McKinnon would return to the show as a first-time host for the Dec. 16 show, the final show before the holiday break, with musical guest Billie Eilish. Prior to that, Emma Stone hosted the Dec. 2 show for her fifth time, with musical guest Noah Kahan, and on Dec. 9, Adam Driver hosted for his fourth time with musical guest Olivia Rodrigo.
Saltburn star Jacob Elordi will make his SNL debut Jan. 20, with musical guest (and Mean Girls star) Renée Rapp. Dakota Johnson and Justin Timberlake are set for the Jan. 27 show. The Bear star Ayo Edebiri, coming off her Emmy and Golden Globe wins, made her hosting debut on Feb. 3 with musical guest Jennifer Lopez.
Comedian Shane Gillis is now set to host SNL on Feb. 24, years after being cut from the show in 2019 for using racial and homophobic slurs during a conversation on a podcast. He will be joined by 21 Savage as the musical guest.
This story will be updated as new shows are announced. Hosts are listed first, followed by musical guests.
Oct. 14: Pete Davidson, Ice Spice
Oct. 21: Bad Bunny (host and musical guest)
Oct. 28: Nate Bargatze, Foo Fighters
Nov. 11: Timothée Chalamet, boygenius
Nov. 18: Jason Momoa, Tate McRae
Dec. 2: Emma Stone, Noah Kahan
Dec. 9: Adam Driver, Olivia Rodrigo
Dec. 16: Kate McKinnon, Billie Eilish
Jan. 20: Jacob Elordi, Reneé Rapp
Jan. 27: Dakota Johnson, Justin Timberlake
Feb. 3: Ayo Edebiri, Jennifer Lopez
Feb. 24: Shane Gillis, 21 Savage
‘SNL’ Faces Backlash After Nikki Haley Makes Surprise Appearance During Cold Open
During a town hall sketch for the cold open, the Republican presidential candidate made a cameo to ask James Austin Johnson’s Donald Trump some questions of her own.
Haley started out by asking, “Why won’t you debate Nikki Haley?” in reference to the former president refusing to participate in presidential debates ahead of the 2024 election.
Johnson’s Trump responded, “Oh my God. It’s her, the woman who was in charge of security on Jan. 6. It’s Nancy Pelosi.”
“Are you doing OK, Donald? Haley proceeded to ask. “You might need a mental competency test.”
“You know what, I did,” Johnson’s Trump said. “I took the test and I aced it, OK. Perfect score. They said I’m 100 percent mental and, you know, I’m confident because I’m a man. That’s why a woman should never run our economy. Women are terrible with money.”
Ayo Edebiri later popped up at the end of the sketch and directed a question at Haley: “I was just curious, what would you say was the main cause of the Civil War? And do you think it starts with an S and ends with a lavery?”
The former South Carolina governor said in response, “Yep, I probably should have said that the first time.”
Edebiri’s question was in reference to a December 2023 town hall in New Hampshire, where a voter asked Haley what caused the war. She responded at the time, “I think the cause of the Civil War was basically how government was going to run, the freedoms and what people could and couldn’t do.”
People quickly began to criticize Haley on social media for not mentioning slavery in her response. She ended up walking back her comments during a radio interview on Good Morning New Hampshire, saying, “Of course, the Civil War was about slavery.”
She continued, “What it means to us today is about freedom — that’s what that was all about. It was about individual freedom,” she said. “It was about economic freedom. It was about individual rights.”
Following Haley’s appearance on SNL, some people took to social media to criticize the NBC sketch comedy show for giving her screen time but not other candidates.
One person wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Nikki Haley will only ever diss trump on a comedy show, and WTF is slavery denier doing on SNL anyway? Disgraceful, @nbcsnl,” while another one added, “Nikki Haley just appeared in the cold open for SNL. Saturday Night Live sure does have a long track record of comedy-washing hateful conservatives.” Trump previously hosted the show in 2015 while running for president for the 2016 election.
NBC declined to comment, but sources told The Hollywood Reporter that NBC will comply with any equal time obligations for other presidential candidates across both parties.
Patrick Mahomes Sr. Arrested on DWI charge in Texas
*Tyler, Texas— Patrick Mahomes Sr. was arrested Sunday in Smith County, Texas on suspicion of “driving while intoxicated 3rd or more,” according to court documents.
Those same jail records show Mahomes Sr. was arrested for a second DUI offense back in 2018.
The bond for this arrest was not listed on the jail website.
Mahomes Sr. is the father of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. The Chiefs play the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas on Sunday, Feb. 11.
The Recording Academy Mistakenly Announces Nicki Minaj And Ice Spice As Winners For The Best Rap Song Category
Before the 2024 Grammys broadcast on Sunday night, the Recording Academy had already been revealing some of this year’s award winners in the Grammys’ premiere ceremony and sharing the results on Twitter. However, a mistake occurred during the presentation of the best rap song category, where the wrong winner’s name was mistakenly posted on Twitter.
During the live-streamed premiere ceremony, viewers noticed the rightful winner for the best rap song was “Scientists & Engineers” by Killer Mike. However, there was a hiccup as the Recording Academy mistakenly posted on Twitter that Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice’s “Barbie World” was the winner. The error was promptly rectified and swiftly deleted.
The tweet that has since been deleted stirred up quite a commotion among fans, especially considering that the Grammy would have marked Minaj’s first win. Despite being nominated 12 times, she has never clinched the award before. Additionally, Minaj and Ice Spice’s “Barbie World” was also nominated for best song written for visual media, but the honor ultimately went to another Barbie track, “What Was I Made For?,” performed by Billie Eilish.
“Why would the Grammys post about Nicki Minaj & ice spice n say they won the Grammys in a tweet & then just deleted it,” one social media user wrote.
Minaj has previously expressed her grievances with the Recording Academy in the past. In 2022, she criticized the Academy for categorizing her song “Super Freaky Girl” in the pop category instead of rap. Taking to social media, Minaj called out the decision, highlighting her disagreement with the classification.
“They stay moving the goalposts when it comes to me. Why is the goalpost only ever moved when it’s Nicki?” she said.
McDonald’s Announces The Return Of Its Shamrock Shake and Oreo McFlurry
McDonald’s bringing back its popular Shamrock Shake and its Oreo Shamrock McFlurry on Feb. 5 at participating McDonald’s.
The popular fast food chain’s seasonal St. Patrick’s Day-themed mint drink will arrive just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, but this year earlier. Last year, the fan-favorite Shamrock Shake landed in restaurants on Feb. 20.
The shake features vanilla soft serve blended with mint syrup and topped with a whipped topping.
“Make your friends green with envy and snag one of these famously minty treats while supplies last,” the announcement from McDonald’s reads.
The Oreo Shamrock McFlurry comes crushed with Oreos sprinkled. Mickey D’s previously rolled out new hotter and juicier versions of its Big Mac and Double Cheeseburger for the year after planning the move in 2020, ABC News reported.
Earlier this year, the chain announced the arrival of the Double Big Mac, which hit stores on Jan. 25. The new menu item “is double the fun with four 100% all-beef patties. It’s topped with pickles, crisp shredded lettuce, finely chopped onions, our iconic Big Mac sauce, and a slice of American cheese, all sandwiched between a fluffy sesame seed bun,” according to a McDonald’s statement.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
'Him'
He reminded me of “HIM” from the puffer puff girls.
He reminded me of “HIM” from the puffer puff girls.
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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