According to a resurfaced email, Jeffrey Epstein was quite the fan of Ye West. However, one song in particular stood out to him: Ye’s 2010 track, “Power.” It’s an ironic choice from the disgraced financier, considering the track critiques the dangers of excessive power. The emails, which appear to have been sent around circa 2011, show Epstein corresponding with a woman named Melanie. The two were discussing ways for him to acquire control of a website named “Mother’s Army.” The brand, which was created by Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, was founded after Epstein’s 2008 conviction. The pair began collaborating shortly before he began a 13-month-long prison sentence for solicitation of prostitution with a minor under the age of 18. While Ferguson worked as the brand’s face, he owned controlling shares of the business. After facing scrutiny, Ferguson fought to regain her brand. However, Epstein would only agree if she would sign a letter of support for him. He then referenced Ye’s “Power” track in a particularly disturbing way, writing, “It’s interesting we were talking about ‘power’ – have you heard the kanye west rap song ‘power’ – some funny lyrics that might resonate.” DOJ Releases First Batch Of Epstein Files Back in December, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) released the first batch of documents related to Epstein. Many of the photos included in the recent drop feature major political figures such as Bill Clinton and Donald Trump, as well as prominent entertainers like Mick Jagger and Michael Jackson. One of the more surprising celebrities to make the drop was Rush Hour actor Chris Tucker. One photo spots the actor arm-in-arm with Epstein’s partner and co-conspirator, Ghislaine Maxwell. In another, Tucker is seen at a dinner table sitting next to what appears to be former President Bill Clinton. Fans of the actor and comedian have begun to speculate if he’s ever participated in Epstein’s alleged trafficking ring. On the other hand, Rock has never admitted to anything nor been accused of any wrongdoing.

More than two decades after their rivalry first reshaped the landscape of early-2000s hip-hop, Ja Rule says he has made peace with the idea that he and 50 Cent may never reconcile. In a recent interview with TMZ, the rapper spoke candidly about the stalemate between himself, 50 Cent, and Tony Yayo, framing it less as an active battle and more as a long-standing divide. “Sometimes in life, people have enemies, and that’s okay. That’s okay to have enemies. Everybody can’t be friends. A friend of everybody is an enemy to himself,” he said. “But what I’m saying is, we don’t also have to be at war.” He described his current stance as one of distance rather than hostility. “There’s room for us to be not friends and also not be at war. That’s where I’m at with it right now. I don’t deal with that side. I don’t fck with them; they don’t fck with me. That’s fine. But, I also don’t have to be at war.” It was less a call for reunion than an acknowledgment that some conflicts simply settle into permanence. Around the same time, 50 Cent posted a characteristically sharp message on Instagram about turning rivals into fuel. “Good morning let your enemies become motivation,” he wrote. “Make them watch your success till they snap. Then get the Fvck out the way before they crash out. LOL.” While he did not mention Ja Rule by name, the remark circulated widely given the timing. View this post on Instagram Ja Rule Addresses Viral Clash as an Old Feud Finds New Ground The renewed attention follows a recent midair dispute involving Ja Rule, Tony Yayo and Uncle Murda that quickly spread online. After footage of the confrontation went viral, Ja Rule addressed the episode with visible regret. “I’m not proud of my behavior it’s goofy to me,” he said. “I’m a grown man about to be a grandfather and I wish that video of me wasn’t out there either. I don’t like people taking me out of my character so for that I apologize to my wife, family, fans, business and investment partners. I want people to know at the end of the day I’m still a man and I’m going to stand my ground. I don’t start trouble.” Notably, this episode is yet another chapter in Ja Rule’s public interactions with Cent, reinforcing the unique role of 50 in media coverage. Time has altered the tone of the feud, if not its existence. What once played out in diss tracks and radio interviews now surfaces in interviews and social media posts, tempered by age and experience. The animosity remains, but it appears to have shifted into something quieter—a boundary both sides seem prepared to live with, much like the gradual acceptance of what happened over the past 50 years in hip-hop rivalries.

News of a Nipsey Hussle project had hip-hop in a frenzy this week as J. Cole continued to shine bright on the charts, securing his 7th number-one album in The Fall Off. While the genre released new albums by Brent Faiyaz, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, and Boldy James over the weekend, there was plenty of new music from emerging acts that you might have missed while paying more attention to the heavy-hitters. 2026 tours continue to pop up, with this week’s announcement of upcoming runs by Baby Keem, J. Cole, and Wiz Khalifa. The battle of the tours is underway as Cardi B kicked off her highly anticipated Little Miss Drama? Tour this week. Nipsey Hussle and Bino Rideaux’s collaboration album announcement was followed by upcoming projects from Mike Will Made It, Larry June, Curren$y, and The Alchemist. Hip-Hop had a lot of surprises this week, alongside the tours and albums. For example, you might have missed that Thundercat released a new song featuring the late Mac Miller, that Mya made her return with plans to release her first new album in 7 years, or that Yung Miami is getting ready for her takeover. To keep you in the know, here’s the new music you might have missed this week. Spank Nitti James, E-40, & Hit-Boy Throw A “Bridal Shower” It’s the Bay to L.A. on the new collaboration that is overloaded with unique slang, brought to you in part by the King of Slang himself. You can get hyphy to the slap, you can do your walk to the track, and you can do your dance, whichever you prefer. Nipsey Hussle & Bino Rideaux Talk “Reckless” The first release from the long-awaited sequel EP between the L.A. duo will remind you how much you miss Nip The Great. The lyrics may be old, but you couldn’t tell based on their relevance. The energy is electric, while the track promises greatness is on the way. Mya Needs Your Love “ASAP” Back like she never left, the legendary R&B singer gets back to her lovergirl ways on the latest release. She delivers more passion, sensual vocals of desire for the leading man. The new track was well worth the wait. Central Cee & J Hus Bring The “Slaughter” After dropping an Iceman freestyle blended with vintage Jay-Z lines, the U.K. rapper links with his brother for some mayhem. The two pass menacing lyrics back and forth as they go on a ride-along, looking for opps. U.K. hip-hop is on a run right now. XavierSoBased Rolls Up Like “Tony Hawk” After landing the Fader, the rap star’s latest single channels the swagger and rebellious energy associated with the iconic skateboarder. The track blends hazy production with playful bravado, using Hawk’s name as a metaphor for effortless style, risk-taking, and cultural impact. Lyrically, the rapper celebrates youth, confidence, and internet-age cool with offbeat charisma and underground rap flair. Yung Miami Makes Her Own Headlines In A “News Flash” The latest in her return run, the track is a sharp-tongued, bass-heavy anthem that doubles as a headline-grabbing statement. “This one was very personal to me. I’m standing in my truth and not apologizing for it,” says the former City Girl. “I put my confidence, survival, and pain in that song. I’m standing my ground and showing that I’m here now.” Tink & G Herbo Are Bonnie & Clyde For The “Gang” Continuing to leave the past behind, the popular rap star links up with a Chicago legend to validate her loyalty in the new track. Drawing on a classic Bonnie and Clyde theme, she proves her star power is undeniable. The forthcoming album will be a must-hear in 2026. mgk is “starman” As he prepares for his nationwide tour with Wiz Khalifa this summer. The Cleveland rock star feeds the streets with a song that owns relatable struggles with fear and escapism by recasting the iconic chorus of Third Eye Blind’s 1997 alternative hit “Semi-Charmed Life” in a modern context. The song swirls together new-wave glow, pop-punk speed, and explosive rock energy into an undeniable sing-along.  Young M.A. Prepares New “Lasagna” As she makes her bounce back, the new song is a gritty, minimalist street anthem built on blunt wordplay and hard-edged confidence. Over sparse production, the “Oow” hitmaker delivers sharp punchlines and unapologetic bravado, reinforcing her Brooklyn roots and reputation for raw, no-frills lyricism. DJ Paul Is A Survivor Who Proves “I Beat The Odds” The Three-Six-Mafia frontrunner has survived the 90s and the 2000s hip-hop landscape. Today, he takes a look back at the journey as he prepares for what’s next. Mike Will Made It Connects Chief Keef and NBA Youngboy To Make More “Rooms” For Greatness The Southern producer’s return to the scene begins with two of the biggest names in street music ever. Their first track together. What more can I say, except hit the play button already. Himothy Chung Speaks To His Brother ZeeTheWizard And Tells Him To “Wait For Me” The New Dallas standout pays tribute to his best friend and late rapper ZeeTheWizard on the track. Fond memories and pledged promises fill the buzzing artist’s wordplay over the heartfelt production. Long live Zee 4E. Lil Poppa Calls On His “Outta Town Bae” The CMG artist has hoes in different area codes on his latest single. Over the booty-bouncing production, he imports a new flame for a link-up. The visual marks the rap star’s last release before his sudden passing. RIP. Babytron & Jorjiana Put On “Carhartt” & Rap Put the fashion first, the new collaboration for the Detroit player is a vibe. After proving he can hold his own with one of the best ever, he kicks back and admires his fresh outfit, made by a unique swag. The song builds on the anticipation for the forthcoming album. Hit-Boy & Lefty Gunplay Throw A “Block Party” After Grammys The West Coast keeps the party going as they put the new gold away in the latest collaboration. The track takes us

Chris Brown has seemingly issued a response to the recent conflict between his baby mothers, one of whom accused him of threats. Earlier this week, Brown’s ex, Diamond Brown, set social media after accusing the singer of fathering a child with his rumored boo, Jada Wallace. In another shocking claim, Diamond accused the singer of interfering in her relationship and says he threatened her boyfriend. On Thursday (Feb.18), the singer hopped on Instagram with a subtle post in response to the allegations. The post contained a black background and text that read, “I ain’t playing no internet games.” Just a day prior, Jada hopped in the chat, accusing Diamond of keeping her daughter, Lovely, which she shares with Brown, away from him.”B—h you a lame running to the internet. Tryna air buisness out like you not the one keeping him from seeing his daughter…” she wrote in a lengthy Instagram post. She also accused Diamond of dating a former friend of Brown’s all whilst living off his money. View this post on Instagram Diamond immediately clapped back at the post, denying claims that she kept her daughter from Brown. “B—h, bye. You don’t know sh—t. I’ve known this man for years. You been around how long? Lol. He say jump and you say how high…” she wrote in an Instagram post. That said, there was only one instance, and it was for Lovely to attend a slumber party, Diamond says. However, according to her, Chris Brown “spazzed out” on the parents of her daughter’s best friend. “He be feeding you whatever you wanna hear shawty,” she said. I have a job b—h. I do my part. What do you do for a living? Besides bow down. On top of that I am the main parent. I’m with my child day in and day out, something you know nothing about. ” Diamond even went as far as to threaten to fight Jada. “…Get off social media b—h. Wait till that baby come out. I’ll whoop your a— fr.”

Big Sean is opening up about one of the most difficult chapters of his life. During a recent appearance on ABC News’ All Access, the Detroit rapper revealed that the 2019 death of his close friend Nipsey Hussle sent him into what he described as a “very deep” depression.  Sean explained that the loss hit him hard emotionally and forced him to confront his mental health in a way he hadn’t before. “It felt like I hit a wall… and I either had to climb over it, or it was gonna fall on me and crush me,” he shared, reflecting on the overwhelming period that followed Nipsey’s passing.  According to the rapper, the moment became a turning point. He admitted he had become so consumed by work that he lost touch with himself, saying he didn’t even know what he enjoyed anymore. That realization, he said, contributed to a depression deeper than anything he experienced in his teenage years.  Rather than ignore the warning signs, Sean made the decision to step back from music and prioritize his well-being. He turned to therapy, meditation, healthier habits, and self-reflection to help rebuild mentally and emotionally. The hiatus ultimately stretched the gap between his 2020 album Detroit 2 and his next full-length release.  Despite the pain, Big Sean says the experience taught him valuable life lessons about balance and self-care. He has also continued to honor Nipsey Hussle’s legacy, most notably through their Grammy-nominated collaboration “Deep Reverence,” which arrived in 2020.  Sean emphasized that he wasn’t trying to become the face of a movement — he was simply being honest about his reality. Still, his openness has resonated widely, especially as conversations around mental health in the Black community continue to evolve.  As Big Sean moves forward, his story serves as a reminder of Nipsey Hussle’s lasting impact and the importance of checking in on mental health — even at the highest levels of success.

Hip-Hop mogul Jay-Z has quietly revised the spelling of his stage name, returning to “JAŸ-Z” across major streaming platforms. The name change went into affect on Wednesday (Feb. 18). View this post on Instagram The reason behind the change remains unknown. The updated stylization mirrors the branding used during the rollout of his 1996 debut album, Reasonable Doubt, which marks its 30th anniversary this year. The change restores both the hyphen and the umlaut over the “Y,” punctuation that appeared prominently on early pressings and promotional materials tied to the landmark release. In the years following his debut, the Brooklyn-born artist gradually simplified the name. The umlaut disappeared first. The hyphen was later removed in certain iterations. By the 2010s, his branding oscillated between “JAY-Z” and “Jay-Z,” reflecting a streamlined corporate identity as his business portfolio expanded. The reintroduction of “JAŸ-Z” signals a calculated return to origins at a pivotal cultural moment. Widely regarded as one of hip-hop’s most influential debuts, Reasonable Doubt established Jay-Z as a sharp lyricist chronicling ambition, risk, and survival. The album’s vivid storytelling and polished production helped lay the foundation for a career that would stretch from rap stardom to boardroom leadership. Hip-Hop Mogul Jay-Z Changes Name Back To Rapper JAŸ-Z Industry observers note that legacy artists often revisit archival aesthetics to acknowledge the milestone anniversaries. In this case, the typography itself functions as historical shorthand. The umlaut and hyphen evoke a mid-1990s era when independent hustle defined his narrative and Roc-A-Fella Records was still in its infancy. In the 90s, Jay rose to the top of Hip-Hop with classic hits such as, “Can I Live,” “Brooklyn’s Finest,” and “Dead Presidents.” For Jigga, born Shawn Carter, branding has long doubled as strategy. Each stylistic adjustment has coincided with a new chapter, from street entrepreneur to global mogul. The revival of “JAŸ-Z” reconnects his present-day empire with the ambition captured on his debut. Taking fans back to the early 90s hip-hop, which included Jay in Benz, popping champagne, and identifying a friend or foe. As Reasonable Doubt turns 30, the restored spelling could serve as both tribute and reminder. It remains unknown how Jay will celebrate the anniversary of his arrival.

Photographer Tommy Nard II is calling out R&B singer Ray J over the spectacle the singer delivered at the viral Valentine’s Day concert in Shreveport, Louisiana, last week. The photographer is accusing the “One Wish” hitmaker of lying about his health. The singer recently revealed he is dealing with serious heart complications, sharing that his long-term health remains uncertain. That disclosure prompted an outpouring of support online. Supporters questioned whether the R&B veteran should continue performing while managing such a condition. Days later, footage from his Shreveport, Louisiana concert began circulating across social media. In the clips, Ray J appeared to wear a patch on his chest. More startling, a red liquid seemed to stream from his eyes and down his face as he performed. The visual sparked immediate alarm. Some viewers feared the singer was in medical distress onstage. Is Ray J Lying AbOut The Blood In His Eyes At Shreveport Concert? But a backstage witness is challenging that narrative. Speaking to KTAL 6, Nard alleged the blood was fake and applied deliberately before Ray J returned to the spotlight. “He loves the camera. He loves the attention,” Nard said. “Anybody that knows him, it’s all theatrical.” Nard doubled down on his account, saying he personally observed the preparation. “I seen him literally put on the fake blood and things like that, and go out there with the crowd,” he added. “It was shocking.” Ray J has announced he will be pursuing a career in stand-up comedy since Shreveport. As of now, the singer has not responded publicly to Nard’s claims.

R&B singer and actress Fantasia delivered a lengthy and explicit Instagram post directed at her father over the weekend after she got engaged to her longtime boyfriend-turned-fiancé. The Grammy-winning vocalist, born Fantasia Barrino, shared a post that publicly rebuke her father, Joseph Barrino, after he criticized her husband, Kendall Taylor. The dispute stems from Taylor’s Valentine’s Day proposal to Fantasia during a concert stop in Houston, a moment that quickly circulated online. Joseph Barrino dismissed the onstage proposal as “fake cry bull crap.” View this post on Instagram He also accused Taylor of mishandling money connected to Fantasia’s business operations. Those allegations sparked debate across social media and fueled speculation about tension within the singer’s inner circle. Fantasia responded by posting her father’s mugshot from a past domestic violence arrest and addressing him directly. “I wasn’t going to do this but this has gotten out of hand,” she wrote. “Joseph Barrino I can’t even call you Dad or a Father, you are a donor.” She claimed she and her mother had protected his reputation for years. “We have covered for you long enough,” Fantasia continued. “Now you have come for my king.” The singer forcefully denied claims of financial misconduct. “How can someone steal if I, Fantasia Taylor, am the CEO and my King Kendall Taylor is the President of all our companies,” she wrote. Singer Fantasia Rebukes Her Father After Getting Engaged To Boyfriend Kendall Taylor In framing their marriage as both romantic and entrepreneurial, Fantasia positioned the couple as equal partners in love and business. Her message did not signal reconciliation. “Tonight I shall help you finish the war you started,” she declared, drawing a firm boundary. What began as a public display of devotion has transformed into a family rift unfolding in real time. For Fantasia, the issue extends beyond a proposal. It touches loyalty, transparency, and legacy. In an era when celebrity family disputes often spill onto timelines, Fantasia chose direct confrontation over silence. Her stance remains unwavering. She stands beside Kendall Taylor and defends her empire without apology.

Rapper Soulja Boy says he has taken another step into emerging technology. He claims he is the first rapper to automate his voice using artificial intelligence. “I was the first rapper to automate his voice with AI. Give me a call,” Soulja Boy wrote Tuesday on X. The post circulated widely across social media, where clips and screenshots showed references to a project sometimes described online as “SouljaAI.” Posts promoting the idea suggested fans could interact with an AI version of his voice. Representatives for the rapper did not immediately release detailed technical information. It remains unclear what tools or platform power the voice system. Soulja Boy, whose real name is DeAndre Cortez Way, has long framed himself as an early adopter of digital trends. He rose to prominence with the 2007 hit “Crank That (Soulja Boy),” which topped charts and spread through early online platforms. Social media buzz and questions Online reactions ranged from excitement to skepticism. Some users praised the move as innovative. Others questioned whether similar voice automation tools already exist. Posts tied to the rollout described the concept as allowing people to call or use an AI voice modeled after the rapper. Screenshots shared by entertainment accounts amplified those claims, though independent verification remains limited. The announcement arrives as artificial intelligence reshapes music production. AI tools can generate vocals, assist with mixing and replicate styles, raising questions about authorship and credit. Industry debate has intensified in recent years as artists experiment with machine learning. Labels and creators continue to grapple with how AI fits into traditional workflows. Soulja Boy has previously commented on the rapid development of AI, reflecting broader curiosity and concern among musicians. The technology’s growing presence has sparked both enthusiasm and criticism across the industry. A history of tech experimentation Throughout his career, Soulja Boy has embraced new platforms, often highlighting his role in internet culture. His early success was closely tied to online distribution and viral marketing strategies. Observers note that artists frequently make bold claims when introducing new technology. Determining who was “first” can be difficult in a fast-moving field. Still, his latest statement underscores how musicians are exploring new ways to connect with audiences. Voice automation and interactive AI tools could open new creative and commercial possibilities. For now, the rapper’s brief declaration stands as the clearest description of the project. “I was the first rapper to automate his voice with AI,” he wrote.

Diamond Brown, who shares a daughter, Lovely, with Chris Brown, has publicly accused the singer of attempting to disrupt her personal life and suggested he may be expecting another child. The exchange gained traction after The Shade Room highlighted her responses to commenters on Instagram, where she addressed speculation and criticism directly. Within hours, screenshots of her remarks spread widely across social media, drawing renewed attention to the pair’s co-parenting relationship. In one pointed reply, Diamond wrote, “LEAVE ME AND MINES ALONE! WORRY ABOUT YOUR BABY ON THE WAY! ” The statement appeared to allude to recent pregnancy rumors surrounding Brown and a woman he has been seen with publicly. Neither Chris nor his rumored partner has confirmed that they are expecting a child, with Brown remaining silent amid speculation. View this post on Instagram Diamond Accuses Brown of Threats and Relationship Interference Diamond also alleged that Brown has interfered with her current relationship. “OF COURSE NOT. Nobody been wanting that man for years now. What I’m not messing with is the fact he been making threats to my MAN and my relationship bc I’m trying to move forward. Don’t speak on s**t you know nothing about,” she wrote, pushing back against online narratives. In another comment, she added, “He wanna ruin my relationship and run men off?! Bet. We airing it all out baby.” Brown has not responded publicly to the claims. View this post on Instagram