9/29/24

The Daily Buzz For Sep 30 ☕📰☕

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#MAGFAB: Dwyane Wade For CR Fashion Book!

Dwyane Wade Knows No Limits! Dwyane Wade Is Our Kind Of Renaissance Man, Moving Seamlessly Through The Worlds Of Fashion, Sport, And Entertainment With Characteristic Style.
It’s currently fashionable to attempt to straddle the gap between fashion and sports. The finest tuned athletes in the world are also menswear addicts, waiting for the cameras to catch their outfits in the pregame tunnel. It’s made the NBA bigger than just a professional sports league; it is also a beacon of unbridled Black joy and creativity, an image for teenage boys to dress in color while training to become man-eaters.

Dwyane Wade, 42, is one of the first athletes to bridge that gap. In his illustrious, prolific, and compelling sixteen-year basketball career, Wade compiled more than 20,000 points, was a thirteen time all-star, and won three NBA championships. Wade was the prototypical slasher, the herky-jerky two guard who was built like a brick, allowing his body to bounce off of defenders in the paint. It was impossible to guard Wade, a grinder who got to the free throw line an unconscionable amount of times. Those who remember the 2006 NBA Finals, when he single-handedly defeated Dirk Nowitzki’s Dallas Mavericks (an underrated NBA rivalry is Wade vs. Dirk), respect Wade’s career—even after he started playing second fiddle to LeBron James—because of how esoteric and dynamic his skill set was. To see him was to see a boulder running downhill with incorrigible speed. Perhaps more importantly, he was one of the most fashion-forward NBA athletes, in a time where the NBA was leaving its reactionary “dress code” rule in the W. Bush era. Wade, who was seen in Vogue and at runway shows during Milan Fashion Week, came in dressed like a womanizing Black detective in Paris, or like he was planning on interning for Vogue itself. Before then-NBA commissioner David Stern knew it, a league that attempted to control the ID and creativity of the Black athlete after several PR disasters relating to the league’s ability to market the game to white America, was embracing the fashion of the Black men it employed.
D-Wade, as he’s affectionately known, always looked good in the tunnel coming into the game. With the help of his stylist Calyann Barnett, he was one outfit away from being an extra in A$AP Mob or Kanye West’s fashion-adjacent crew. It kept evolving too. He wore shrunken black blazers with a sweater to show his inner nerd; white blazers with no shirt to show off some racy male cleavage; Burberry blazers with bengal colored stripes; beige double-breasted suits; even a grandma sweater that made everyone on social media stop in their tracks. Wade looks classically handsome, but he also has fun with it, even if there are people who are more conservative in their fashion choices that would make fun of him. Fashion was a way for him to express himself off the court; he wanted to be more than a winning athlete.
And in retirement, he’s been the same adventurous soul. Don’t get me wrong: He’s a family man, but he’s also announced basketball games at the 2024 Paris Olympics, bought an ownership stake of the Utah Jazz, and made it to TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2020 . Still, it is his support for his trans daughter Zaya Wade that is perhaps Mr. Wade’s most excellent characteristic. Wade and his wife Gabrielle Union—an exceptionally talented actress— haven’t just accepted their daughter’s identity, they have embraced it, protecting her when she needs protecting—without any reservations. The Hall of Famer would be celebrated regardless of this, but since Zaya transitioned, the entire Wade family has been mostly showered with heartwarming adoration, a sign that trans rights are headed in the right direction.
Speaking to CR Fashion Book, Wade was upbeat and charming; knowledgeable and not afraid to discuss the past. “Fashion became a big way for us, as athletes, to express ourselves,” he says.

Get the full interview HERE!


#RHOA: Phaedra Parks Gets a Little Shady While Addressing ‘Married to Medicine’ Exit & RHOA Return

“Real Housewives of Atlanta” fans have expressed concern about the upcoming season. Kenya Moore and Porsha Williams were expected to lead the cast and deliver the drama as a duo. However, Kenya left the show before the cast concluded filming Season 16. Kenya clashed something serious with RHOA newbie Brittany Eady. Phaedra was eventually brought in to give Porsha another veteran to anchor the show with. Interestingly enough, Phaedra was also filming for the next season of “Married to Medicine.” Phaedra made her debut during the previous season. Throughout the season, some fans questioned whether Phaedra fit in with the group. Phaedra was no longer dating the doctor she was with before signing up as a main cast member.

One rumored explanation for Phaedra’s time on “Married to Medicine” being cut short is her ex-husband Apollo Nida and his wife Sherien Almufti reportedly gave Phaedra a hard time during a cast trip. It was also alleged that Dr. Heavenly Kimes was the person who invited the couple unbeknownst to Phaedra. This reportedly set off Phaedra because Sherien allegedly tried to get violent. Phaedra didn’t appreciate this and reportedly told producers that her time on “Married to Medicine” was over.

Phaedra addressed her alleged departure from M2M and return to RHOA during an interview with Entertainment Tonight. She’s been busy competing on “Dancing With the Stars.”

ET Reporter Denny Directo asked Phaedra, “You know a lot of fans were curious about how you made the jump from Housewives to ‘Married to Medicine’. How did that process even play out?”

Phaedra answered, “Easy!” She laughed and continued, “Housewives is obviously my first love. You know Porsha said, ‘Hey Phaedra, I need you back. I need your help.’ Frick and Frack is back. That’s my girl. So it’s like returning…it’s a homecoming, going back home. I love my housewives and I wanna see Atlanta come back to when it was so fierce and fabulous. So we gon do that.”

Denny then asked, “Were you secretly filming episodes while you were also filming ‘Married to Medicine?'”
Phaedra responded, “No, it was no secret.”


#MusicNews: Victoria Monét Shares 'JAGUAR II (Deluxe)' Tracklist 
On Thursday (Sept. 26), Victoria Monét shared the tracklist for JAGUAR II (Deluxe), just a little over a week before it’s slated to hit streaming services on Oct. 4.
The 10 additional songs will kick off with “D**k at Night,” followed by the Thundercat-assisted “Don’t Sleep.” Monét’s pre-release offering “SOS (Sex on Sight)” with Usher — the first of two collaborations they have in store — is expected to serve as the project’s third entry.

Elsewhere on the tracklist are “2Sexy (Interlude)” and “Love Is Stronger Than Pride,” the latter of which seems to be a cover of Sade’s 1988 record of the same name. Fans will also receive the Atlanta-born songstress’ Bryson Tiller duet, “We Might Even Be Falling In Love.”

“Thank you, Mother, for feeding us. We were starving!” wrote one fan in the comments section of Monét’s post. Another reply read, “This deluxe edition is giving lover girl energy. The heat is up!”
“Oh, this is a deluxe, deluxe. Ma’am, can we get a second leg of ‘The Jaguar Tour?’” someone else penned. Meanwhile, SZA simply shared, “Period!”

The original JAGUAR II, released in 2023, housed “On My Mama,” “Smoke,” and “How Does It Make You Feel,” to name a few. It also won Best R&B Album at the 66th Grammy Awards.


#HipHopNews: Kanye West Announces His Next Solo LP ‘Bully’
Kanye West has announced his first solo album since DONDA in 2021. The talented recording artist shared the news with a preview of his unreleased single “Beauty and the Beast.” The new album does not yet have a release date, but will be titled Bully.

West is currently on the road with Ty Dolla $ign doing huge shows across Asia and Europe. His formal album announcement happened in China. Speaking on his forthcoming album, one fan said, “Never trust the words ‘Coming soon’ and ‘Kanye West Album’ in the same sentence.” Another user was excited that the “VULTURES Era” was over. Ye and Ty Dolla $ign have not spoken about a third installment of their album series since the release of VULTURES 2.

West is one of the most prominent musicians of all time, so there will always be a demand whenever he announces a product. While he has a terrible track record regarding release dates, he did deliver two separate projects this year alone. His last couple of tapes boasted features from Lil Baby, Future, India Love, Kodak Black, Quavo, YG, and many more.

While his recent projects have been offering Ye in a more executive producer/curator role, he was once known for his dynamic feature performances. Whether it was his game changing verse on “Put On” by Young Jeezy or his show stopping performance on Lil Wayne’s “Lollipop” remix. Tracks like “American Boy” by Estelle helped provide the main artist springboards to shine for the rest of their career.

Recently, Ye dedicated a performance of his Graduation standout “I Wonder” to Drake and personal stylist Ian Connor during his South Korea show at the Goyang Stadium. This came on the heels of him taking shots at the Canadian superstar rapper on the remix of Future, Metro Boomin, and Kendrick Lamar’s Billboard chart-topper, “Like That.”

There is no telling when Ye’s newest album will be released, but the track he previewed has been met with positive reviews. Many people are claiming that the old Kanye is back after he posted a video chopping a sample on Instagram.


BREAKING: Kris Kristofferson, singer-songwriter and actor, dies at 88
Kris Kristofferson, a Rhodes scholar with a deft writing style and rough charisma who became a country music superstar and A-list Hollywood actor, has died.
Kristofferson died at his home on Maui, Hawaii on Saturday, family spokeswoman Ebie McFarland said in an email. He was 88.
McFarland said Kristofferson died peacefully, surrounded by his family. No cause was given. He was 88.
Starting in the late 1960s, the Brownsville, Texas native wrote such classics standards as “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down,” “Help Me Make it Through the Night,” “For the Good Times” and “Me and Bobby McGee.” Kristofferson was a singer himself, but many of his songs were best known as performed by others, whether Ray Price crooning “For the Good Times” or Janis Joplin belting out “Me and Bobby McGee.”

He also starred opposite Ellen Burstyn in director Martin Scorsese’s 1974 film “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore,” starred opposite Barbra Streisand in the 1976 “A Star Is Born,” and acted alongside Wesley Snipes in Marvel’s “Blade” in 1998.

Kristofferson, who could recite William Blake from memory, wove intricate folk music lyrics about loneliness and tender romance into popular country music. With his long hair and bell-bottomed slacks and counterculture songs influenced by Bob Dylan, he represented a new breed of country songwriters along with such peers as Willie Nelson, John Prine and Tom T. Hall.
“There’s no better songwriter alive than Kris Kristofferson,” Nelson said during a November 2009 award ceremony for Kristofferson held by BMI. “Everything he writes is a standard and we’re all just going to have to live with that.”

He was a Golden Gloves boxer and football player in college, received a master’s degree in English from Merton College at the University of Oxford in England and turned down an appointment to teach at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York, to pursue songwriting in Nashville. Hoping to break into the industry, he worked as a part-time janitor at Columbia Records’ Music Row studio in 1966 when Dylan recorded tracks for the seminal “Blonde on Blonde” double album.
At times, the legend of Kristofferson was larger than real life. Johnny Cash liked to tell a mostly exaggerated story of how Kristofferson, a former U.S. Army pilot, landed a helicopter on Cash’s lawn to give him a tape of “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” with a beer in one hand. Over the years in interviews, Kristofferson said with all respect to Cash, while he did land a helicopter at Cash’s house, the Man in Black wasn’t even home at the time, the demo tape was a song that no one ever actually cut and he certainly couldn’t fly a helicopter holding a beer.

In a 2006 interview with The Associated Press, he said he might not have had a career without Cash.
“Shaking his hand when I was still in the Army backstage at the Grand Ole Opry was the moment I’d decided I’d come back,” Kristofferson said. “It was electric. He kind of took me under his wing before he cut any of my songs. He cut my first record that was record of the year. He put me on stage the first time.”

One of his most recorded songs, “Me and Bobby McGee,” was written based on a recommendation from Monument Records founder Fred Foster. Foster had a song title in his head called “Me and Bobby McKee,” named after a female secretary in his building. Kristofferson said in an interview in the magazine, “Performing Songwriter,” that he was inspired to write the lyrics about a man and woman on the road together after watching the Frederico Fellini film, “La Strada.”

Joplin, who had a close relationship with Kristofferson, changed the lyrics to make Bobby McGee a man and cut her version just days before she died in 1970 from a drug overdose. The recording became a posthumous No. 1 hit for Joplin.
Hits that Kristofferson recorded include “Why Me,” “Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do),” “Watch Closely Now,” “Desperados Waiting for a Train,” “A Song I’d Like to Sing” and “Jesus Was a Capricorn.”
In 1973, he married fellow songwriter Rita Coolidge and together they had a successful duet career that earned them two Grammy awards. They divorced in 1980.

He retired from performing and recording in 2021, making only occasional guest appearances on stage.


Beyoncé’s Instagram Spammed With Comments Attempting To Connect Her To Diddy

Social media users — and likely more than a few bots — have resorted to commenting on Beyoncé‘s Instagram account en masse following the arrest of Sean “Diddy” Combs. In screenshots captured by VIBE on Friday afternoon (Sept. 27,) users question the 43-year-old’s knowledge of nefarious behavior that occurs in the music industry, particularly that of Mr. Combs.

From GIFs and memes to verbal accusations, the comments range from demanding facts to outright accusing Queen Bey of selling her soul.
“How can you admire someone involved in disturbing things?” questions one Instagram account.
“We want the truth,” wrote one user in all caps.
“Selling your soul really wasn’t worth it was it? What goes up MUST come down!” exclaimed another.

One commenter even brought her husband into the mix, adding, “I can’t wait to see Jay-Z go down for everyone he’s wronged.” This comes after Suge Knight claimed the Brooklyn rapper as well as Dr. Dre, and additional industry leaders were privy to Combs’ behaviors.

Anyone who signs up for the social media platform is able to leave a comment with their own account, however, this can be changed to either turn comments off or limit access to certain platforms. For the 32-time Grammy Award winner, however, she will likely welcome words of kindness from her celebrity fans, loyal Bey hive, and industry connections, as the love greatly outweighs the trolls.

As for Combs, he currently remains behind bars on racketeering conspiracy; sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion; and transportation to engage in prostitution charges after being arrested in New York City earlier this month.
Neither Beyoncé nor Jay-Z are mentioned in the 14-page unsealed indictment. VIBE has reached out to Beyonce’s team for a statement on the influx of negative comments. 


Tisha Campbell, Melissa De Sousa, Amiyah Scott To Star In Dramedy ‘Operation: Aunties’

The TV network ALLBLK has announced its original feature film Operation: Aunties, starring Tisha Campbell, Melissa De Sousa, and Amayah Scott.
Directed by Wendy Raquel Robinson, the dramedy tells the story of a “longtime friendship that is tested when a risk-averse cryptocurrency expert and her retired detective best friend become vigilantes after discovering a cyber-crime syndicate in their city.”

The official synopsis reads: “After an attempted trafficking incident impacts her family, professor and blockchain expert Dr. Carol Cleavers (De Sousa) stumbles upon a dark web operation using new-age technology to assault and traffic women through a rideshare app. Knowing the feds won’t act fast enough, Carol teams up with her best friend, retired detective Sharon O’Hara (Campbell), and her niece Aminah James (Scott), computer hacker extraordinaire.”

Together, the three women embark on a mission that brings them face-to-face with danger.
Brett Dismuke, Head of Content ALLBLK & We TV, spoke about bringing the three seasoned actresses together for the “edgy action and laugh-out-loud comedy,” that tackles “real issues affecting our society today.”

“Melissa, Tisha, and Amiyah expertly bring these strong, Black female characters to life, showcasing resilience, empowerment and tremendous heroism – keeping the laughs coming along the way, all of which resonate deeply with ALLBLK subscribers,” he said.

TJ Ali, writer and executive producer, added, “Black women are always saving the day. Our culture thrives because of the everyday change agent — those who consistently rise up and uplift our society. For me, those agents of change have always been women from across the diaspora.”
Dubbed Ali’s debut film on the network, she continued, “I’m incredibly proud to partner with ALLBLK, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Big Little Sis Media, and our incredible cast to bring this vision to life — a story for us, by us. The culture deserves to see our aunties as the vigilantes they already are — our heroes.”

Operation: Aunties has yet to receive a premiere date but will be available sometime in 2025 exclusively on ALLBLK.


Kerry Washington’s ‘UnPrisoned’ Canceled After 2 Seasons
The After-Party” - After suffering a devastating family loss, the Alexanders make major breakthroughs in becoming a family -- only to be confronted with a new revelation that may turn it all upside down. (Disney/Kelsey McNeal
Kerry Washington reveals that UnPrisoned has been canceled after two seasons. Sharing the news Friday morning (Sept. 27) on social media, the actress explains why she wanted viewers to learn of the unfortunate decision from her point of view.

“Ladies & Gents, that is a wrap on Unprisoned,” wrote the 47-year-old on X. “This beautiful show that we poured so much of our hearts and souls into is unfortunately not coming back for a Season 3. But I wanted you to hear it from me because while we’re super duper disappointed, we’re also crazy deeply grateful.”

She continued, “Making this show was a labor of love. And we know that so many of you found connection and healing with The Alexander Family – and that their impact will live on!”
UnPrisoned, which streamed on Hulu as part of the Onyx Collective, starred Washington, as well as Delroy Lindo, Faly Rakotohavana, Marque Richardson, Jordyn McIntosh, and Jee Young Han. It originally debuted in 2023, with the second season dropping in July 2024. The series was created by author Tracy McMillan, and loosely based on her life experiences.

In its 2023 introduction, UnPrisoned earned the highest premiere viewership at the time for an Onyx Collective show on Hulu. It also earned status as the most-watched premiere on the streaming app in terms of hours for 2023 upon release.
“I wanted to show a family that every person in America would identify with, even though they’re facing very specific circumstances,” detailed McMillan.

The series was also executive-produced by McMillan. Yvette Lee Bowser also executive produced along with Washington and Pilar Savone through Washington’s Simpson Street banner, as well as Lindo. Joy Gorman Wettels and Jen Braeden also executive produce, with ABC Signature as the studio.


Drake Hogestyn Dies: ‘Days Of Our Lives’ Star Was 70
Drake Hogestyn, who portrayed John Black in the beloved soap Days of Our Lives, has died at 70, a day before his 71st birthday. The news was confirmed by the long-running show’s social media account, which released the statement: “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. He was thrown the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination. After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones.”

“He was the most amazing husband, father, papa and actor,” the statement continued. “He loved performing for the Days audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business.”
“We love him and we will miss him all the Days of our Lives,” the message, from the TV star’s family, concluded.
Hogestyn first began playing John Black in 1986, with a hiatus from 2009-2011, upon which he returned to the popular character until his death. His character’s main turning point was the reveal that he was actually the assumed-dead Roman Brady (originated by Wayne Northrop) after plastic surgery and memory loss.

Executive producer of the NBC-Peacock show, Ken Corday, said in a statement, per Soap Opera Digest, “This is a very difficult one for all of us. Hogey was the ultimate team player and there are not sufficient words to express how deeply he will be missed. His impact on our show, personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unmatched.”

Born in Fort Wayne, IN, on September 29, 1953, the future soap veteran attended university on a baseball scholarship, where he double-majored in microbiology and applied sciences with the aim of becoming an oral surgeon. He was drafted by two Major League Baseball teams (the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Yankees).

An injury in 1977 cut his baseball career short, which resulted in him pivoting to entertainment. His entry began by being chosen as one of 30 actors in a pool of 75,000 applicants for a nationwide talent search conducted by Columbia Pictures. After completing the studio’s training program, he made his TV debut in 1982 with CBS’ short-lived Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (opposite the likes of a then-12-year-old River Phoenix).

Colleague Nancy Lee Grahn, who starred in another esteemed soap, General Hospital, wrote on X, “My deepest condolences to Drake Hogestyn’s family, friends and fans. What a lovely, lovely gracious man.”


Jennifer Hudson partners with Dawn in a journey of love for wildlife and family

In a recent interview, the multi-talented Jennifer Hudson shared her inspiring partnership with Dawn dish soap, a brand she has cherished since childhood. Known primarily for its effectiveness in cleaning dishes, Dawn also plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation, particularly through its collaboration with the International Bird Rescue. Hudson’s passion for animals and her fond memories of using Dawn in her home make this partnership a natural fit.

From childhood memories to wildlife advocacy
Hudson recalls her childhood experiences with Dawn, stating, “Dawn has always been a part of my household and my upbringing.” Her fondest memories involve washing dishes and preparing for family gatherings during the holidays. “I was a dishwasher. We all had our chores, and washing the dishes was my job,” she reminisced. This connection to the brand is not just nostalgic; it’s also deeply rooted in her values as an animal lover.

Hudson’s partnership with Dawn is fueled by her admiration for the brand’s commitment to wildlife rescue. The iconic commercials featuring the cleaning of ducklings resonate with her, as she emphasizes the importance of using trusted products that contribute to animal welfare. “To know that there are things that can help wildlife is something I would love to advocate for and be a part of,” she expressed.

A day in the Hudson household
In the Hudson household, teamwork is key. With her 15-year-old son taking on the role of the family cook, Hudson finds herself on dishwashing duty. “He’s the cook in the house, and I’m washing the dishes. So Dawn is there. It just makes sense to my life and his life as well,” she shared with a laugh. This dynamic not only fosters a sense of responsibility but also strengthens their bond.

When asked about the meals they enjoy preparing together, Hudson mentioned pizza and vegetable lasagna, noting that cleanup can be a challenge. “Whatever he’s cooking, I just pull out my superpower: Where my Dawn at?” she joked, highlighting the importance of having reliable cleaning products on hand.

Finding joy in everyday chores
Hudson’s love for hand-washing dishes stems from her appreciation for traditional practices. She describes the act as “almost like a hand massage” that centers her and nurtures her home. “It’s something that I feel like I’m contributing to my home when I can wash dishes versus maybe putting them in the dishwasher,” she explained. This connection to her home and family is evident in her approach to chores, which she finds both relaxing and rewarding.

Balancing career and parenthood
As a successful talk show host and actress, Hudson faces the challenge of balancing her career with motherhood. “Finding that balance is key. I like to meet myself where I am and find the best way there,” she said. Her daily routine involves dropping her son off at school, attending work commitments, and participating in his extracurricular activities, such as basketball games.

Hudson emphasizes the importance of being present in her son’s life, engaging in activities he enjoys, and fostering their shared interests. Whether it’s attending sports events or bonding over music, she is committed to nurturing their relationship.

Encouraging community involvement
Through her partnership with Dawn, Hudson aims to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and encourage others to get involved. “I want them to help Dawn save ducks. I’m sure if they look over, they will see Dawn sitting on their kitchen counter and realize how much a part of their lives it is,” she stated passionately. Hudson’s message is clear: By using products like Dawn, consumers can contribute to meaningful causes while enjoying the benefits of a trusted household item.

For more information on Jennifer Hudson’s campaign with Dawn and how you can contribute to wildlife conservation, visit www.dawnducks.com.


Chino XL’s Family Reveals His Heartbreaking Cause Of Death
Chino XL’s family has revealed the veteran Bronx-bred rapper’s cause of death. In a statement, they confirmed what many suspected—that he died of suicide.
“With the most profound sadness imaginable, we share the news that our beloved father decided to end his own Life,” the statement reads. “It’s been the most painful and personal experience of our lives but in honor of Suicide Awareness Month, we decided to share this truth. Dad would hope that this news may help someone else stay alive.”

The Ventura County Medical Examiner’s office lists his official cause of death as asphyxia as a result of ligature hanging.
Chino XL died on July 28 at the age of 50. Following the news, his daughters shared a collective statement on their father’s passing. It read, “Our father was our rock and our best friend. Papa Bear loved us and taught us so much. Hundreds of emails, texts, chats and beautiful posts and comments on social media, have shown us that Dad was a fountain of strength to so many. He encouraged and comforted pretty much everyone in his path and left this dimension with an untouchable creative legacy.

“We are grateful beyond words for our time with Dad and are overwhelmed by the immeasurable global outpouring of love from around the world. We will forever navigate this catastrophic loss and ask for continued privacy.”

According to several close friends and family, Chino XL battled depression throughout his life. In 2020, he was diagnosed with congenital heart failure.
Chino XL was a member of MENSA and revered for his mastery of the English language. He initially signed to Rick Rubin’s American Recordings as half of the duo Art of Origin and released his debut solo album, Here To Save You All, in 1996. One of his most well-know appearances is on “The Anthem” featuring RZA, KRS-One, Pharoahe Monch, Kool G Rap and Eminem. Most recently, he contributed to Rakim’s latest album, God’s Network: Rebirth.

Chino XL is survived by five children, five grandchildren, his mother and former partner.


YouTube Blocks Songs By Adele, Kendrick Lamar, Mariah Carey And More Due To Legal Dispute
Songs by Adele, Bob Dylan, Green Day, R.E.M., Burna Boy, Rush, Kendrick Lamar, Nirvana, and Mariah Carey are among those currently unavailable on YouTube in the United States. When users attempt to play these songs, they receive a message stating, "This video contains content from SESAC. It is not available in your country."

YouTube stated in a statement that they have been unable to reach an agreement with SESAC to renew their existing deal. "As a result, content represented by SESAC is no longer available on YouTube in the US," they said. SESAC is smaller than other performing rights organizations such as ASCAP and BMI, but it represents a significant portion of the music market. They collect royalties and protect copyrights on behalf of songwriters and music publishers.

A source close to the situation suggests that YouTube's move may be a negotiating tactic, as the previous deal actually does not expire until next week.
The blockage has affected not only direct performances of SESAC-affiliated songs but also songs by other artists that feature SESAC-affiliated songwriters. Fans have expressed frustration on social media while YouTube continues to work on reaching a new agreement with SESAC.

Similar disputes have occurred in the past, such as the battle between Universal Music Group and TikTok earlier this year. However, such blocks typically do not last more than a few days or weeks.


Naomi Campbell Breaks Silence After She's Accused Of Using Charity To Fund Lavish Lifestyle
Naomi Campbell, the acclaimed supermodel who has graced countless runways and magazine covers, finds herself embroiled in controversy following a financial investigation into her charity, Fashion for Relief. Established in 2015, the charity aimed to raise funds for various environmental and humanitarian causes. However, on September 26, Britain's Charity Commission released findings that painted a distressing picture of the organization's internal operations.

According to the report, the charity was "poorly governed" and demonstrated "inadequate financial management." The commission found that between April 2016 and July 2022, a mere 8.5% of the charity's overall expenditure was allocated to charitable grants.

More troublingly, Campbell and her co-trustees, Bianka Hellmich and Veronica Chou, were accused of utilizing the charity's funds for personal expenses, including flights, lavish hotels, spa treatments, room service, and even cigarettes.
The charity dissolved in March 2024, adding a final chapter to its tumultuous history. In light of the findings, Naomi Campbell has been banned from running a charity in England and Wales for the next five years. Her co-trustees face even longer bans, with Hellmich barred for nine years and Chou for four.

Amid these accusations, Campbell has publicly denied any wrongdoing. Speaking to the Associated Press, she expressed her deep concern about the allegations, attributing the issues to mismanagement by others within the organization.
"I was not in control of my charity, I put the control in the hands of a legal employer," Campbell stated, emphasizing her dedication to philanthropy. "We are investigating to find out what and how, and everything I do and every penny I ever raised goes to charity."

This incident has sparked a broader dialogue about the importance of transparency and oversight in charitable organizations. It serves as a cautionary tale for other philanthropists and non-profit leaders about the potential pitfalls of inadequate governance. As young people increasingly engage with charitable causes, either as volunteers, donors, or leaders, this case underscores the need for vigilance and accountability to ensure that resources are directed to their intended purposes.

Naomi Campbell's ordeal is a reminder that even those with the best of intentions must remain keenly aware of their organization's operations. While the fashion world and her fans await further developments, this incident might serve as a pivotal moment for reexamining and strengthening governance practices within the philanthropic sector.


Jussie Smollett is putting his 2019 hate crime hoax behind him for good

Jussie Smollett is leaving his legal troubles in the shadows as he reemerges in the spotlight to promote his latest project, The Lost Holliday, a film starring and directed by the actor, which was released for a limited run on Friday (Sept. 27).
His resurgence comes two years after his directorial debut with 2021’s B-Boy Blues and five years since he claimed to have been a victim of hate crime in Chicago, Illinois. In a new “Way Up with Angela Yee” interview promoting the flick, he opened up about moving forward with his career after a tumultuous few years.

“It certainly was a tough time unless anybody was living under a rock, yeah, it’s been rough,” he told Yee, adding, “But you know, this is what I do, I create art, and I hopefully create art that affects people in a really important and impactful and loving way. Anything else for me is just noise.”

In January 2019, Smollett alleged that he was attacked by two men in Chicago who yelled racist and homophobic slurs, tied a noose around his neck, and poured bleach on him. He was walking home from a nearby Subway, where he purchased a sandwich, when the incident unfolded. The next month he was charged with multiple counts of felony disorderly conduct and accused of filing a false police report. Police allege that he orchestrated the attack with brothers Obabinjo “Ola” and Abimbola “Abel” Osundairo.

The “Empire” star was found guilty during a month-long trial in December 2021. He was sentenced to 150 days in jail, 30 months of probation, and ordered to pay $145,000 in restitution to the city of Chicago. His lawyer appealed the ruling, which has allowed Smollett to regain his freedom after serving six days. The entertainer has remained steadfast in claiming his innocence.

“Even if the rest of the world has not moved on it, I am in the process of moving on from it. So, all I can really do is keep working and keeping myself mentally healthy, physically healthy, and spiritually healthy. And I have been working very, very hard in every single element of myself,” he said.

As for the naysayers, the “My Mind” singer is not focused on turning them into believers. “People are going to say what they wanna say,” Smollett quipped. “I can’t lie to you and sit here and be like, ‘Oh it doesn’t bother me. It just brushes right off.’ No. It bothers me. Sometimes it hurts my feelings, sometimes it really pisses me off.”

He admitted that given the media frenzy, it’s not a surprise to him that some people do not believe his story about being a victim of a hate crime. The entertainer explained, “As far as the public goes, I understand why they would feel like they did, based on the narrative that was spun. And then on top of the way it was served, in such a horrendous, egregious way that it just did not happen.” His appeal is currently under review by the Illinois Supreme Court.


Key and Peele ‘Don’t See Each Other’ Anymore, Keegan-Michael Key Says: ‘A Tragedy’
Emmy-award winning writer duo and former housemates Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele aren’t as close as they once were, Key told People in an interview published Sunday. He explained, “We don’t see each other that often anymore,” before he added, “Which is, to me, a tragedy.”

Key described the pair’s time together as writers on “Mad TV” as one during which they “shared a mind.” He added of his former housemate, “We lived together for a few months and would write and talk about comedy — who we liked and why we liked them and how that worked in the architecture of what we were trying to build comedically.”

The duo went on to launch their hit comedy series “Key & Peele” in 2012. They also worked together on 2016’s “Keanu,” appeared on “Fargo” during the show’s first season and voiced characters in 2019’s “Toy Story 4” and 2022’s “Wendell & Wild.”
But eventually, life got in the way of their friendship and professional collaborations. Peele lives in Los Angeles with his wife Chelsea Peretti and Key lives with his wife Elle in New York.
“Key & Peele” ended in 2015. Key said at the time, “This is our final season – and it’s not because of Comedy Central, it’s us.”
He added, “It was just time for us to explore other things, together and apart. I compare it to Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor. We might make a movie and then do our own thing for three years and then come back and do another movie.”

“I’m thinking we could do that every three years — take a year, go bang out a movie. That’s the plan right now,” Key said.
The show won a Peabody Award in 2013 and was nominated for an Emmy the same year. The series received four more Emmy nominations in 2014 and eight in 2015.


Niecy Nash-Betts Jokes Travis Kelce Was 'Greedy' While Grabbing Food During Rehearsals for “Grotesquerie”

Niecy Nash-Betts is reflecting on her time working, and snacking, with Grotesquerie costar Travis Kelce.
In a new interview with ETalk, shared on TikTok on Friday, Sept. 27, the 54-year-old Emmy winner was asked what type of food she and the Kansas City Chiefs tight end, 34, would eat while practicing their lines for the Ryan Murphy series.

"Anything and everything. Travis is greedy," she joked. "Anything and everything. I'm talking from burgers to pasta. Only one of us ever ate a salad and that was me."
Nash-Betts' joking revelation came after she called Kelce a "dream" to work with in the new FX series, in which she leads the cast as a small-town detective investigating a series of crimes. "He is so charming but comes to work prepared," she told ETalk. "He's open to learn. And I think his fans are going to be pleasantly surprised."

The actress also said that she thinks the NFL star "caught the bug" with his latest role, adding, "I could be wrong, but I feel like yes, you're going to see him do a lot more."
For Grotesquerie, Kelce stepped into his first-ever scripted TV role, in a show that follows Nash-Betts' character of Detective Lois, who tries to solve the "eerily personal" series of crimes.

And after getting to know Kelce on set, the actress now intends to catch a Chiefs game with her wife Jessica Betts, she told PEOPLE this week.
"So yes, I'm going to get to see him, but also I saw him play in the Super Bowl. But we didn't know each other then," she said. "Now it's different. At first it was just like the game and now it's like, 'Oh, there's my friend Travis. Hey Travis!' That's different. It's personal now."

As Nash-Betts explained, the "guys" on set were "fangirling all the way out" when they saw Kelce for the first time. He was ultimately "lovely to have on set," "came prepared" and was "very open" to suggestions.
"He was very open on if there was a note given or a suggestion given. So amenable," Nash-Betts said. " 'Tell me what I don't know. Tell me what your thought is on this.' And I love that he didn't come in trying to act like, 'I know everything and I know it all.' "
Meanwhile, the star athlete's mom Donna Kelce told PEOPLE at the series' New York City premiere on Monday, Sept. 23 that she felt Travis has "always" had acting "in the back of his mind."

"I just think that he thought, 'If I get an opportunity, I would like to try [acting]," she said. "He's pretty good at just about anything he does because he's got a good work ethic, so we'll see."
Grotesquerie premiered Wednesday, Sept. 25 on FX and is now streaming on Hulu.


Mariah Carey To Have Court-Ordered Deposition with Brother As Part of Ongoing Lawsuit
*Mariah Carey is putting in a legal personal appearance, courtesy of the court. A New York judge ordered the 55-year-old songstress to sit for a deposition with her brother, Morgan Carey, by January 31, 2025. The development marks the latest chapter in Morgan’s ongoing lawsuit against his famous sister.

Chronicling the situation, The Jasmine Brand referenced court documents obtained by In Touch Weekly which reveal that Morgan Carey sued Mariah in 2021. The suit stems from claims Mariah made in her memoir, “The Meaning of Mariah Carey” Detailing the situation, the outlet noted allegations made by Morgan that Mariah falsely accused him of being violent and dealing drugs during their childhood, per theJasmineBrand.

Recounting instances of physical altercations between Morgan Carey and their parents, Mariah Carey details in her memoir.
“It took twelve cops to pull my brother and father apart,” the entertainer mentioned in her memoir while recalling another violent situation.

“My brother had pushed my mother with such force that her body slammed into the wall,” the “Always Be My Baby” singer said. Morgan has denied his sister’s accusations, saying he never harmed their parents or sold drugs. He goes on to express that Mariah’s allegations damaged his reputation.

Mariah contrasts her brother’s claims, referencing conversations with their mother and others who corroborated her claims about Morgan’s alleged drug involvement. Although the court previously dismissed most of Morgan’s claims against Mariah, it allowed him to pursue damages related to the drug dealing allegations.

During a recent hearing, the judge in the case emphasized the urgency of the depositions, given the circumstances surrounding the situation. News of the court-ordered deposition could not come at a worse time for Mariah, who recently experienced the deaths of her mother, Patricia, and sister, Alison. The pair both passed away on the same day in August.

“My heart is broken that I’ve lost my mother this past weekend. Sadly, in a tragic turn of events, my sister lost her life on the same day,” Mariah recently expressed.
Morgan is seeking unspecified damages from his Grammy-winning sibling with his lawsuit.


Late Kim Porter's Father Speaks Out On Diddy's Arrest: 'The Truth Will Come Out'

The late Kim Porter's father, Jake Porter, has shared mixed feelings about Sean "Diddy" Combs amid the rapper's recent legal troubles.
While acknowledging the serious charges against Diddy, Jake refrained from advocating for a re-investigation into his daughter's 2018 death, which was reportedly caused by pneumonia.

Since Sean "Diddy" Combs' arrest and sex crime charges, several rumors surrounding Kim Porter's death resurfaced, which were further fuelled by the release of a fake memoir.
During an interview with the Daily Mail from his Georgia home, Jake Porter broke his silence on Diddy's arrest amid growing speculation surrounding his daughter's death and her relationship with the rapper.

After her passing in November 2018, Diddy delivered a heartfelt eulogy at her funeral in Columbus, wept at her gravesite, and stood hand-in-hand with Jake as they grieved together.

However, the 78-year-old's feelings toward the disgraced music mogul appear to be far more complex as he grapples with the serious charges brought against him.
However, Jake chose not to comment extensively on the recent charges against Diddy, simply stating that he was "aware of them from the news."

He also said: "When I saw the video of what he did to Cassie (Ventura). I was disgusted. I don't really have much to say beyond that. Everyone's innocent until proven guilty, I guess, but the truth will come out."
When asked if he believed any new information about his daughter's death might surface amid increasing calls for a re-investigation, Jake dismissed the original investigation as "a load of cr-p."

However, he stopped short of advocating for a new investigation into Kim's passing at the age of 47, which had been ruled a natural death due to lobar pneumonia.
A different family member, who wished to remain anonymous, was more outspoken, telling the outlet, "If she was my daughter, I would be demanding that the investigation be re-opened."

Reflecting on Kim, the relative shared, "I remember Kim as a little girl – she was just the sweetest little girl, And I remember how she grew up to be so beautiful and talented."
They added: "But I saw the change in her when we visited her out in California when she was with him [Diddy]. She was changed, something wasn't right."
They concluded: "Now I feel in my spirit he's guilty, but justice will just have to take its course."

The comments from Kim's family come after her children's recent statement calling for an end to all rumors about their late mom.
The heartfelt message was signed by Christian, 26, twins Jessie and D'Lila, 17, and Quincy, 33, Kim's eldest son from her previous relationship with singer Al B. Sure!, whom Diddy adopted during his long, on-and-off relationship with Kim between 1994 and 2007.
In their statement, Kim's children expressed frustration over the "hurtful and false rumors circulating about our parents, Kim Porter and Sean Combs' relationship, as well as about our mom's tragic passing, that we feel the need to speak out."

They recalled how devastated they were by her loss but emphasized that "the cause of her death has long been established" and made it clear that "there was no foul play."
Diddy's kids also denied recent rumors suggesting that Kim wrote a memoir before her death. They clarified that anyone saying they possess a manuscript and claiming to be her friend is "misrepresenting themselves."

The children concluded their Instagram statement by urging the public to respect their mom's memory.
"We ask that everyone please respect our mother, Kim Porter, and hold her legacy in high regard so that she may rest in peace. It's what she deserves," they wrote. "We love you and miss you, Mommy."

Earlier this month, a 59-page book titled "Kim's Lost Words: A Journey for Justice from the Other Side" was released, quickly rising to the top of Amazon's bestseller list.
The book, allegedly compiled from a thumb drive containing entries from Kim's personal journals, details disturbing accusations. It claims Diddy once slapped her in a fit of rage and even issued death threats.
However, according to the Daily Mail, even the book's publisher, Chris Todd, has expressed uncertainty about the memoir's authenticity, saying he got the thumb drive from "two music industry sources."

Diddy, for his part, has voiced his anger concerning the book in question. Amid his stay at the Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center, his lawyers issued a statement on his behalf, denouncing the book as "offensive" and "shameless."
His attorney, Erica Wolf, said, "The Kim Porter' memoir' is fake. It is also offensive a shameless attempt to profit from tragedy. Chris Todd has no respect for Ms. Porter or her family, who deserve better."
Wolf added, "Unlike the fabrications in his sickening 'memoir,' it is an established fact that Ms. Porter died of natural causes. May she rest in peace."


HBO/DC’s ‘The Lanterns’ Reportedly Eyeing Aaron Pierre And Stephan James For Lead Role
Who want’s to be a super hero? Maybe Aaron Pierre and Stephan James because they are reportedly both top contenders to portray John Stewart, the first Black Green Lantern, in HBO/DC Studios’ highly anticipated Lanterns series. According to The Hollywood Reporter, both actors are in the running for the role, though it’s unclear whether they’ve auditioned or tested for it. A decision on the casting could be made as soon as this weekend.

If you’re a Snowfall fan, the star of that series, Damson Idris was previously in contention but is no longer being considered, with no explanation provided for his exit from the running.
The actor chosen to play John Stewart will join Kyle Chandler, who has already been cast as Hal Jordan, the original Green Lantern. The series, written and executive-produced by Damon Lindelof and comic book writer Tom King, will feature Chris Mundy as showrunner.
Now get this, The Lanterns was Initially set to air on Max, but the series transitioned to HBO following a restructuring of the streaming platform’s content. The excitement around Lanterns is evident, as it received a straight-to-series order, becoming a key part of James Gunn and Peter Safran’s new vision for the DC Universe.

Casey Bloys, CEO and chairman of HBO and Max Content, expressed enthusiasm for the series, stating, “We are elated to be reuniting with Chris Mundy and Damon Lindelof… for this fresh take on DC’s Green Lantern.” Gunn and Safran added, “John Stewart and Hal Jordan are two of DC’s most compelling characters, and Lanterns brings them to life in an original detective story that is a foundational part of the unified DCU.”

Now here’s where it gets interesting, plot wise that is. The series will follow a gritty storyline involving Hal Jordan mentoring John Stewart as they serve as “intergalactic cops” investigating a murder mystery in the American heartland, adding a darker, earth-based twist to the Green Lantern lore.


Michigan Man Allegedly Assaults Postal Carrier Over Mail Featuring Vice President Kamala Harris

A Farmington Hills, Michigan man is now facing serious criminal charges after allegedly assaulting a female postal carrier after receiving a flyer featuring Vice President Kamala Harris.
Authorities say Russell Frank Valleau, enraged by the particular piece of mail, reportedly lashed out with vile insults.

“I don’t want that ‘Black b***h’ in my mailbox,” the 61-year-old allegedly yelled before launching into a horrifying tirade of racial and sexual slurs directed at both Harris and the postal worker.  In a moment of terror, he’s accused of coming toward the postal worker with a knife. The employee defended herself by using pepper spray to fend off Valleau, while police later arrested him in a neighbor’s yard.

“Whatever our political beliefs, no one should be assaulted or threatened because of their race or for doing their job. Hate crimes impact all of us, and we will vigorously pursue all such cases,” Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald shared in a statement.
Valleau was arraigned and pleaded not guilty to charges of ethnic intimidation and assault, but the shockwaves of his actions have reverberated throughout the community. Thankfully, the postal employee was not harmed in the incident. This comes just days after the Tempe, Arizona office for the Harris campaign was shot at. Several bullet holes were visible, though no one was injured.


AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Newly Wed

Must not forget the groceries for the honeymoon.


EVENING GOODIES: Meet Daddy Keith
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