Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins celebrates his Songwriters Hall of Fame induction with Darkchild Sessions, a live three-track EP recorded in Nashville. Released exclusively through Apple Music and his faith-based label Alienz Alive, the project reimagines some of Jerkins’ most iconic productions through the lens of a new generation of artists. Jerkins, a towering figure in R&B and pop for over two decades, enlists Jon Keith, Hulvey, and nobigdyl. to reinterpret classics like Toni Braxton’s “He Wasn’t Man Enough,” Brandy and Monica’s “The Boy Is Mine,” and Ray J’s “One Wish.” Each performance fuses nostalgia with lyrical reinvention, balancing reverence for the original tracks with bold, spiritually grounded storytelling. Darkchild Sessions honors Jerkins’ legacy while casting forward a vision of faith-infused hip-hop and R&B. The live setting brings a raw emotional power, echoing the genre’s roots while embracing modern voices committed to substance and sincerity. For Jerkins, this is more than a tribute—it’s a creative revival. “These songs shaped an era,” he says. “Now this new generation carries the torch with purpose. To celebrate this Hall of Fame moment through these voices, in partnership with Apple Music Nashville, is a full-circle blessing.” The EP also reflects the mission behind Alienz Alive, the label Jerkins launched in June 2024. Built on faith, truth, and spiritual growth, Alienz Alive supports artists committed to transformation through their music. The label fosters community while pushing sonic and cultural boundaries. With a roster that includes Jon Keith, GAWVI, IMRSQD, Alex Jean, and TJ Carroll, it positions itself as more than a label—it’s a movement of purpose-driven artistry. Darkchild Sessions doesn’t just revisit past glories. It reframes them with heart, urgency, and a deep sense of calling. At a career milestone, Jerkins proves his influence remains not only relevant—but renewed.

It looks like Megan Thee Stallion really is a “bombshell, gettin’ turnt in the villa,” thanks to her recent cameo on Peacock’s Love Island USA. On June 19, the popular dating series premiered its latest episode, where Megan Thee Stallion stops by to give the cast a few challenges. From twerking to doing the limbo, the Houston native kept the contestants on their toes while hilarity ensued. The “Everything Bigger In Texas” rapper also made it clear who the “Real Hot Girl” was as she flaunted her voluptuous frame, donning a slinky, gold, two-piece from her new swimwear brand, Hot Girl Swim. After the episode’s premiere, in an Instagram Story post, Megan unveiled a new, limited edition one-piece inspired by the series. HOTTIES A REAL BOMBSHELL IS ENTERING THEE VILLA A new episode of #LoveIslandUSA is streaming tonight on @peacock #HotGirlSummer pic.twitter.com/s5cck3LeMD — TINA SNOW (@theestallion) June 19, 2025 instagram.com/megantheestallion In other news, amid facing a cyberstalking lawsuit from Megan Thee Stallion, social media personality Milagro Gramz has finally agreed to stop speaking publicly about the case. The decision follows warnings from Megan’s legal team that online commentary could fuel real-world violence, especially after Tory Lanez was stabbed in a California prison. During a virtual hearing in Miami, U.S. Magistrate Judge Lisette M. Reid instructed Megan’s attorney, Robert Schwartz, to draft a formal order barring both sides from making public remarks. Milagro Cooper, the defendant, appeared without legal counsel. Judge Reid emphasized the need to limit damaging speech from both parties while the case remains active. “There’s an accusation that you defamed her,” Reid told Cooper. “My role is to contain what’s circulating online from both sides.” Megan Thee Stallion, born Megan Pete, filed the lawsuit in Florida’s Southern District in 2024. She accuses Cooper of spreading falsehoods online, including an AI-generated pornographic video falsely depicting her. The complaint also alleges that Tory Lanez, convicted of shooting Megan in 2020, paid Cooper to smear her character during and after the trial.

Is there anything that Queen Bey can’t do? Whether it’s sparking online debates or shattering Grammy records, Beyoncé has more than proven herself worthy of all her accolades. So it’s no surprise that when Billboard released its “The 75 Best R&B Artists of All Time” list, Beyoncé ranked high among her peers. Landing at No. 4 on the list, the Renaissance singer follows behind icons like Michael Jackson (No. 3), Aretha Franklin (No. 2), and Stevie Wonder (No. 1). The late, legendary, singer and diva, Whitney Houston, rounded out the group at No.5. The criteria for ranking included “vocal prowess, body of work, career longevity, industry achievements, game-changing influence, and enduring generational/cultural impact.” “Billboard’s Greatest Pop Star of the 21st Century also happens to be one of the Best R&B Artists of All Time. In fact, it’s her dedication to her R&B foundation that has helped her become one of music’s most innovative, impactful, and impressive artists,” the outlet wrote. “The 35-time Grammy-winning Houstonian first hit the Billboard charts as the lead vocalist of Destiny’s Child, the girl group in which she honed her now-signature staccato rap-singing, a vocal approach that can be heard in virtually every contemporary R&B song today.” Beyoncé has been named the #4 ‘Best R&B Singer of All-Time’ by Billboard staff. pic.twitter.com/bFcg8myACW — Pop Tingz (@ThePopTingz) June 19, 2025 Other notable artists included in the list include: James Brown (No.6), Prince (No.7), Mariah Carey (No.8), R.Kelly (No.9), and Marvin Gaye (No.10). Last December, Billboard crowned Queen Bey as the greatest pop star of the 21st century. The publication said she’s “the century’s biggest pop star based on her full 25 years of influence, evolution, and impact.” “The reasons why Beyoncé captured the top spot on our list were beyond numerous. Ranging from her 25 years of timeless albums and singles to her incalculable industry impact and influence on other artists, to her peerless raw talents as a singer and performer.” Billboard said. “Few artists this period can match her in any of the most critical basic categories of pop stardom. Commercial success, performance abilities, critical acclaim and accolades, industry influence, iconic cultural moments – and absolutely no one can equal her in all of them,” Billboard continued.

The 31st Annual HOT 97 Summer Jam kicked off ithis at 3p this afternoon, starting with the free Who’s Next Festival Stage performances from 3p to 6p at Mulberry Commons just outside the main venue. Join the party. Watch the VIP Backstage Live Stream and Live Chat with Artists and Performers. Get the Official HOT 97 App. SUMMER JAM BACKSTAGE LIVE

Earlier this week, Rick Ross added another notch to his belt after being honored with a street renaming ceremony in his hometown of Clarksdale, MS. The event also coincided with Juneteenth, a holiday meant to commemorate the end of slavery in the US. The street, now known as “Rick Ross Way,” according to city officials, is designed to inspire the city’s residents with a can-do attitude. “When they see that name, he can tell the story and say, ‘I came from the streets of Clarksdale. I made it, and so can you.’ It just serves as a reminder that if they can do it, you can do it too,” Clarksdale’s mayor, Chuck Espy, told ABC24. “I just want all the youngsters to know this is somewhere to be proud of,” Ross said during the emotional ceremony. “Clarksdale is beautiful; it’s amazing, it’s creative. It’s the home of a lot of amazing artists.” Ross’ mother, Tommie Roberts, was right by the rapper’s side as he expressed his gratitude for her. “Every time I see my mama, when I text her in the morning, I always let her know she did it,” he said. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hot Freestyle (@hotfreestyle) Roberts tells ABC24 that the moment was “special ” to her, especially with all the sacrifices the rapper has had to make, including missing “a lot of family gatherings, a lot of holidays.” She added, “You see the glitz and glamour, but there’s a lot of heartache behind it.” Earlier this month, Rick Ross received an official proclamation from Georgia Congresswoman Nikema Williams for his contributions to the state. Although he’s proudly from Miami, Ross built deep roots in Georgia with his business and community efforts. The ceremony acknowledged Ross’ long-standing influence in the Peach State, notably his annual Car & Bike Show. The annual event has become a significant attraction for both locals and tourists. His efforts in franchising businesses, such as Wingstop, real estate, and creating job opportunities were all highlighted, along with his “Boss Up” conferences that benefit Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the state of Georgia.

Lizzo is done with the speculation about her being on Ozempic and ready to speak her truth. In a recent interview on the Just Trish podcast, the Grammy-winning artist opened up about her physical transformation and made it clear it had nothing to do with trying to fit into Hollywood’s mold. Reflecting on her past, Lizzo revealed she attended major red carpets like the Met Gala at her heaviest and never once felt like her size held her back. Confidence was never the issue. But now, she says, she’s stepped into a new chapter where she genuinely feels the compliments she’s always received. “I actually believe the compliments,” she told host Trisha Paytas. Her recent changes, she explained, weren’t just about dropping weight—it was about taking care of herself from the inside out. That meant skin care, dental work, and committing to the gym. “I’ve tried everything,” Lizzo said when asked about Ozempic, but she stressed that her results weren’t the product of any shortcuts. The hard work, discipline, and consistency are what reshaped not just her body, but her mindset. With a 16% reduction in body fat, Lizzo says the biggest transformation has been internal. Feeling stronger and more in control, she’s found a new kind of power that doesn’t rely on public validation. As online chatter continues, Lizzo isn’t interested in feeding rumors. She’s focused on her health, her happiness, and living her truth. The glow-up? It’s real—but it’s not about trends or attention. It’s about Lizzo finally feeling aligned with the woman she’s always been becoming.

The pain of losing Takeoff still lingers, but Quavo and Offset continue to show that his spirit lives on. Despite the Migos’ past turmoil and a falling out between the two remaining members, the late rapper’s memory has become a powerful force keeping the family close. On what would have been Takeoff’s 31st birthday, Quavo and Offset came together to honor their fallen brother at a private gathering with loved ones. The celebration, captured by No Jumper on Instagram, featured a group photo, plenty of reminiscing, and the kind of vibe Takeoff would’ve appreciated. Fans could see just how much love remains between the two as they stood united in remembrance. Quavo took a moment to speak directly to Takeoff in front of everyone, saying: “I will say happy birthday to Take. I love you, I miss you. To infinity, you dig? We gon’ meet again.” It’s a message that echoes his post from last year, where he honored Takeoff turning 30 with a heartfelt tribute: “Happy Birthday Take!!! A 30 ball damn bro the youngest out gang getting old boyy… as long I’m here you are too twin… to infinity rocket man I love you. Let’s get it!” Even after his passing, Takeoff’s presence remains strong in music. His posthumous collaboration with Quavo, “Dope Boy Phone,” dropped not long ago, giving fans one more moment of the magic they made together. Offset, meanwhile, is working on new solo material while navigating public attention around his split with Cardi B. But no matter what’s happening personally or professionally, one thing is clear—when it comes to Takeoff, both Quavo and Offset are still locked in. Their bond, though tested, finds strength in honoring someone they both deeply loved.

When it comes to Diddy’s federal trial and numerous sexual assault allegations, Cuba Gooding Jr. says he has been praying for everyone who’s involved. Catching up with TMZ at LAX on Wednesday, Gooding said he’s been keeping up with the ongoing trial because “you turn your TV on, and see it everywhere.” But the Academy Award winner said he’s praying for the disgraced founder of Bad Boys Records, Cassie Ventura, and all the alleged victims. “Like I said, I pray for the brother, and I pray for the victims, and I pray for Cassie and her family,” Gooding said. “That’s all I can do from a bystander’s point of view.” When asked if he feels sorry for Diddy’s perilous predicament, Gooding said that he does, but also “conceding that it can be difficult to feel that way at the moment.” Quoting a passage from the Bible, he explained that he could not be judgmental of anyone because he has had his public issues. “You know, it’s hard to, but yeah, I feel sympathy,” he said. “They say he, without sin, cast the first stone. I don’t judge anybody.” Gooding Jr. was named in producer Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones’ lawsuit against Diddy in 2023, but he was later dropped as a defendant. Appearing on the PBD Podcast in May, Gooding described the suit as “an alleged cash grab.” “This guy who’s suing him [is] going after the money, man,” he alleged. “I’m sure, and by the way, I don’t know P. Diddy’s life. I don’t know what he’s going through […] We were acquaintances, just like I just showed you. Two–three times I’ve seen him.” 

Jadakiss is taking the high road. During a recent episode of the Joe & Jada podcast, Kiss made it very clear that he wouldn’t speak on Styles P and Cam’ron with Jim Jones as a guest. “This is a PSA,” Jadakiss warned as Fat Joe agreed. “We’re not gonna talk about my brother Styles, and we’re not gonna talk about Cam. One I don’t condone that sh*t, and two it’s a lot more beautiful sh*t going on in the world than to rile up some sh*t.” Jadakiss starts off his Jim Jones interview with a PSA to fans, deciding to not speak about Cam’ron and Styles P “we’re not gonna talk about my brother Styles and we’re not gonna talk about Cam…” (via Fat Joe & Jadakiss podcast) pic.twitter.com/ojC2roIaC7 — SOUND | Victor Baez (@itsavibe) June 19, 2025 When Jones interjected to call Styles P his brother, Jada said, “We don’t have to get into that because we already know what it is, and they’re gonna see soon enough.” The  PSA was given after Styles P said he would beat  Jones in a Verzuz on the No Funny Sh*t podcast.  “Me and Jim ain’t in the same league. Me and Jim don’t do the same things. I am a bar master. I am a lyrical technician,”.Styles said, “I’m not here to make catchy hooks. I don’t knock that. I’m trying to say some sh*t that’s gone make your soul move. That’s what I’m into.” “I have the utmost respect for Jim, for how he built his career. I love Jim. That’s like my bro,” Styles P continued. “I ain’t never answer it and not to disrespect Jim, but that’s disrespectful to me and my catalog.”

Coco Jones is learning not to be so hard on herself. In a cover story interview with Vibe, Jones revealed that she can be her worst critic when it comes to her artistry. Instead of being excited about the release of her highly anticipated album, Why Not More, she was overcome with emotion and in her head. “I just hope it means something… I feel like I’m kind of grieving a little bit,” Jones said. “People ask me if I’m excited about it, f**k no. This sh*t hurt me. It brings out the worst side of you, ‘cause it’s supposed to, and you gotta write about ‘em.” Coco went on to explain that she wanted everything to be perfect. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Coco Jones (@cocojones)  “I think that was the side of me I felt was the worst, this ‘no grace’ part. Basically, it was just pushing yourself until you’re satisfied with yourself,” she continued. “To have to put together a piece of work and present it to a label after you’ve already had certain levels of success, it’s just a very uncomfortable place to be in. It brings so many expectations from myself, from the world.” “I’m also my worst critic,” Jones added. Her logical, hardworking brain kicked in. “I feel like I have an expectation of myself that I can make things happen faster than they happen in reality, in real time. I feel like if I work hard enough and I have the right song, it would do that again.” Although she can be hard on herself, she is beloved by her adoring fans and critics alike. Before her debut album dropped,  she’d earned seven Grammy nominations and won “Best R&B Performance” for “ICU.” Also, she was named “Best New Artist” at the BET Awards in 2023.   As an actress, Jones recently wrapped up filming the fourth and final season of Bel-Air, Peacock’s popular reboot of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.