Young Thug drew criticism from animal rights advocates, PETA, after sharing an Instagram photo of a luxury garment made from Alligator leather during a recent visit to Miami, Florida. The Atlanta rapper posted the image on March 22 while in Miami for a performance at E11EVEN Miami. In the photo, he wears a custom tank top reportedly made from alligator skin and valued at about $25,000. The outfit went viral immediately. Young Thug accompanied the image with a caption that seemed to joke about the clothing’s price. “Is it just me or would everybody spend 25k on a tank top?” he wrote to followers. PETA coming for young thug head after he was stuntin in his $25K gator skin “Weird banana hammock tank top” pic.twitter.com/QBOd9fTa7R — STREETWORK85NAWF (@Streetwork85N) March 22, 2026 The post quickly drew a response from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, the international animal rights group commonly known as PETA. The organization criticized both the garment and the use of alligator leather in fashion. “No, we wouldn’t and neither should you when the clothing comes from an animal who was violently killed so you could wear this weird banana hammock tank top,” the group wrote in a public comment on the post. PETA Slams Rapper Young Thug For Wearing Alligator Skin Tank Top In Miami PETA continued its criticism by urging the rapper and his audience to consider the ethical implications behind luxury materials made from animals. “Please consider who you’re wearing – an animal who values their life as much as we value ours,” the organization added. The exchange reflects a broader debate surrounding exotic skins in the fashion industry. Designers have long used materials such as alligator and crocodile leather in high-end clothing, shoes, and accessories. Animal rights advocates argue that the practice contributes to unnecessary harm to wildlife. Young Thug did not publicly respond to the comment. The moment also highlights the way social media has become a battleground for cultural debates. Celebrities often showcase luxury fashion choices online, while advocacy organizations increasingly use the same platforms to challenge those displays and promote ethical alternatives.

OJ Da Juiceman faces multiple criminal charges in Georgia following a highway confrontation that prosecutors say involved a firearm pointed at a state trooper. The Atlanta rapper, whose legal name is Rapeze Wilborn, was arrested March 15 after authorities issued a warrant tied to a January incident on Interstate 20, according to law enforcement records. The case includes 10 charges, led by felony counts of aggravated assault on a public safety officer and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. O.J. da Juiceman arrested after trooper claims he pointed a gun during highway incident. pic.twitter.com/qLkMvWwzLe — My Mixtapez (@mymixtapez) March 23, 2026 A trooper with the Georgia State Patrol stated he was merging into the HOV lane on I-20 East when a vehicle began tailgating and repeatedly honking. According to the officer’s report, the driver passed the patrol car and “pointed a black handgun directly at him” before accelerating away through traffic. The trooper reported encountering the same vehicle again moments later. During that second interaction, the driver allegedly aimed the firearm toward the officer once more before leaving the scene. Rapper OJ Da Juiceman Arrested In Highway Incident, Hit With 10 Felony Charges Investigators later connected the vehicle to a rented Nissan Altima. Authorities subsequently identified Wilborn as the suspected driver and obtained an arrest warrant in February. Officers arrested him the following month. In addition to the felony counts, prosecutors filed misdemeanor charges including pointing or aiming a firearm at another person and several traffic violations related to reckless driving. Defense counsel has contested the state’s identification of Wilborn as the driver. During bond proceedings, attorneys submitted a sworn affidavit from a woman who said she rented the Nissan Altima involved in the case. She stated she permitted another man to use the vehicle and asserted that, to her knowledge, Wilborn “was not behind the wheel” during the alleged encounter. Defense lawyers also argued Wilborn maintains strong ties to Georgia, citing his career and family connections in the state. They contended he presents no flight risk while the matter proceeds. The case remains pending as investigators continue reviewing evidence and witness accounts. The affidavit disputing Wilborn’s presence in the vehicle may play a central role in future proceedings in Georgia court.

Charlotte rapper DaBaby is bringing hip-hop back to his home turf this summer with 50 Cent as one of the headliners at the Be More Grateful Festival. It will pick up where J. Cole’s Dreamville festival left off with a major event set for the Charlotte area. The Grammy-nominated artist revealed the festival while preparing to launch his Be More Grateful Tour across the United States. View this post on Instagram The festival will take place June 13 at Route 29 Pavilion in Concord, North Carolina, just outside Charlotte, North Carolina. Organizers expect thousands of fans to pack the venue for a full day of hip-hop performances. The announcement comes as DaBaby prepares to begin his national tour in Houston. While the tour will hit several major markets, the Carolinas only receive one official stop in Myrtle Beach on April 9. The festival gives hometown fans another chance to see the rapper perform close to where his career began. DaBaby Taps 50 Cent, Busta Rhymes, BigXThaPlug & More For First Annual Be More Grateful Festival In Charlotte, North Carolina DaBaby stacked the lineup with major names and rising talent. Headliners include hip-hop heavyweight 50 Cent, veteran lyricist Busta Rhymes, and Atlanta rap star Waka Flocka Flame. The festival will also feature newer voices such as BigXthaPlug and YKNiece. DaBaby built his name through relentless touring and explosive stage performances. His breakthrough came in the late 2010s with viral singles and chart success. Since then, the Charlotte rapper has remained a major live draw across the country. The Be More Grateful Festival reflects his continued loyalty to the city that shaped him. The event places the spotlight on Carolina hip-hop while bringing national stars to the region. Tickets for the festival go on sale March 27, and strong demand is expected. For DaBaby, the event represents more than a concert. It is a hometown celebration designed to unite generations of rap fans under one stage. With artists like 50 Cent on the bill, the festival blends hip-hop history with the genre’s next wave.

Hip-hop mogul 50 Cent is taking his business ambitions back to New York with a major nightlife project in Times Square. The rapper and entrepreneur has partnered with the team behind Planet Hollywood to launch a new celebrity-driven entertainment venue called PH Live. View this post on Instagram The reported $100 million deal places the new concept inside Planet Hollywood’s flagship Times Square location. The project comes through a collaboration between 50 Cent and hospitality executive Robert Earl, the chairman behind the Planet Hollywood brand. PH Live aims to turn the famous tourist district into a hip-hop and entertainment hotspot. According to organizers, the venue will host pop-up concerts, film premieres, album release events, private celebrations, and major cultural gatherings throughout the year. 50 Cent Strikes $100 Million Dollar Partnership With Planet Hollywood To Bring To NYC’s Times Square 50 Cent says the vision builds on Planet Hollywood’s long-standing link to entertainment culture. “Planet Hollywood has always been connected to pop culture, and PH Live takes that energy to the next level,” he said while discussing the new venture. The venue plans to rely heavily on advanced visual production. Massive LED screens, immersive lighting, and digital stage technology will allow the space to transform depending on the event. One night could feature a surprise concert. Another might host a live sports watch party or exclusive album launch. The project continues 50 Cent’s steady rise as a businessman beyond music. Over the past decade, he has expanded into television production, spirits brands, and live entertainment ventures. His relationship with Planet Hollywood already includes a successful Las Vegas residency and the launch of his Candy Shop nightlife brand. PH Live will also reflect the rapper’s personal taste in food and culture. The menu will feature dishes inspired by 50 Cent’s favorites, including sweet chili shrimp, steak with macaroni and cheese, and a signature burger. Fans will also find memorabilia connected to his film and television career displayed throughout the venue. Organizers say the goal is to create an immersive 50 Cent experience. The Times Square opening could mark the start of a larger expansion. A future PH Live in Louisiana has been discussed as 50 Cent launches a film-and-television studio in Shreveport.

Julez Smith, the 21-year-old son of singer Solange Knowles, is trending online after being spotted getting close with reality TV personality Tommie Lee, sparking widespread dating rumors. Clips circulating across social media show Julez and Tommie Lee spending time together in what appears to be a flirty, late-night outing. In one video, the two are seen laughing and getting comfortable with each other, while another moment that’s gained traction suggests they may have shared a kiss. View this post on Instagram The viral clips quickly set the internet off, with many users weighing in on the pair’s chemistry and the noticeable age gap. Tommie Lee, 41, Julez 21,—and Solange is reportedly 39. While some fans are questioning the nature of their relationship, others are brushing it off as a casual link-up or a moment blown out of proportion by social media. Neither Julez Smith nor Tommie Lee has publicly addressed the rumors, leaving fans to speculate whether the two are actually dating or simply enjoying each other’s company. View this post on Instagram

R&B icon Toni Braxton was forced to cut her performance short after experiencing what she described as an “unexpected personal emergency.” The incident occurred on March 22, 2026, during a stop on the New Edition Way Tour in Minneapolis. Fans in attendance were surprised when Braxton exited the stage early, performing only part of her scheduled set before the show came to an abrupt end. Shortly after, Braxton addressed the situation and apologized to fans for not being able to continue. “My loves, I am so sorry I wasn’t able to finish the show last night,” she wrote. “I had an unexpected personal emergency and had no choice but to step away.”  She continued, “You deserved my everything and I hate that I couldn’t give it to you. I feel your love from here. Thank you for understanding.” At this time, no further details have been released regarding the nature of the emergency. Representatives for the singer have not provided additional information. View this post on Instagram Braxton, a Grammy-winning artist known for timeless hits like “Un-Break My Heart” and “Breathe Again,” has previously been open about her health challenges, including living with lupus. However, it remains unclear whether her early exit was related to her health or another personal matter. Despite the sudden ending, fans have taken to social media to express their support, wishing the singer well and hoping for her quick return to the stage. “Toni I pray you get better and take care of yourself. I enjoyed seeing you in Milwaukee this past weekend and you were phenomenal. Please take care and much love to you!” commented one fan. “I was there last night and she was trying to do a dance move and the next thing we knew she left the stage and didn’t return. She did an amazing job when she was on tho. We love you Toni and I’m glad I got to see you” reacted another.

Michael Jordan’s racing team just keeps on dominating the race track. ​According to the Associated Press, on Sunday, March 22, 2026, Tyler Reddick won the Goodyear 400 at Darlington Raceway. Although he started the pole, Reddick overcame several challenges. He was dealt with by a faulty electrical system that forced him to shut off his “cool suit” in 90-degree heat. Also, there was a mid-race battery swap and a late-race collision. ​Jordan, who was seen leaping over a SAFER barrier, watched as Reddick chased down Brad Keselowski in the final 30 laps to win by nearly six seconds. The win is Reddick’s fourth in six races to start the 2026 season. After winning his first Daytona 500 title and sweep of the season’s first three races, 23XI Racing is the team to beat in the NASCAR Cup Series. ​Following the race, Jordan spoke about Reddick’s toughness that compelled him to victory. “Pretty sure it’s frustrating for him because he had an unbelievable car, and I think the key to him winning was just keeping his head,” said Jordan. We just had to get the car right, and I think he did an unbelievable job. I just wanted everything to be good because once he gets back out there, then I feel like his competitive juices are going to carry him all the way to the end. He earned it all week, and I’m real proud of the team.” View this post on Instagram “I know never to give up,” Reddick added. “And I think it’s very fitting that when we finally get our first win here at Darlington, that ‘The Lady in Black’ would test us like that. We’ve been so close so many times.” Riddick also explained some of the issues with his vehicle. The battery wasn’t charging at all. All day long, just not running fans and sweating my tail off inside the race car. We knew it was going to be physical,” Riddick said. “Really wore out, but I guess I don’t need as much of that cooling stuff as I normally have.” “We didn’t have the best car today, not compared to Tyler,” Keselowski said. “Tyler drove a hell of a race, and he’s driving a rocket and making it count right now.” ​The next race for Riddick is the Cook Out 400 at Martinsville Speedway on Sunday, March 29, 2026.

Shyne has publicly responded to Brandy’s denial that they were ever romantically involved, telling TMZ that her version of events is inaccurate. The story resurfaced after Shyne and Ma$e discussed dating Brandy around the same period during an episode of the podcast It Is What It Is. Brandy swiftly issued a statement refuting the claims. She described their connection as strictly platonic. Shyne defended his account. He emphasized that his recollections come from admiration. “I spoke from a place of admiration and a place of reminiscing on my experience with her, which I didn’t care to highlight the negatives, it was only positive,” he said. “I don’t know what is wrong with her.” He also noted a past incident in which Brandy apologized on Oprah after misrepresenting her marital status to protect her public image. “She lied to Oprah about being married and had to go on Oprah and apologize because she said she did that to protect her image… I can’t get in her mind. I’m just saying that she has lied to the public before to protect her image, and maybe the fact that she was seeing both Mase and I at the same time, she feels it’s not good for her image.” View this post on Instagram Shyne and Ma$e Recall the Past, While Brandy Sets the Record Straight Reflecting on their differing perspectives, Shyne contrasted his approach with Ma$e’s: “Mase has different opinions. He’s very hard-lined. He’s very extreme. I’m a bit more compassionate, a bit middle ground. So, Mase and I weren’t agreeing on everything. But we agreed on [both dating her]. So, if I was capping, he would have said, ‘Nah, Shyne. I don’t remember it like that.’ He and I remember it the same way. Clark Kent remembers it the same way. So, but you know what? Happy Women’s Month.” The discussion began after fellow rapper Cam’ron prompted Shyne and Ma$e to clarify overlapping timelines with Brandy on the podcast. Brandy later took to Instagram to address the situation directly. She wrote: “In the late 90’s, I had a platonic friendship with rapper Shyne. In an unfortunate turn of events, that friendship is now being mischaracterized as ‘we dated.’ Unequivocally, we did not! I’m not sure why an untrue narrative about a scope of what was a friendship more than 20-years ago is being reshaped during his current media interviews.”

Reginae Carter recently offered a candid look at her father Lil Wayne’s love life while growing up. She revealed during an interview with Toie Ashanti on the Heir Time podcast that he had once dated Solange. She also mentioned relationships with Nivea and Trina. “I was telling my friend the other day… how like I used to love Nivea,” Reginae said. “I begged for Niv to come to my party. Like I used to dress like Nivea for my party.” Turning to other figures, she added, “Girl, I love Nivea. I love Trina. I love Solange… Yeah. He had a few. I love everybody.” Her remarks echo a viral claim from 2020, when Bow Wow suggested on Clubhouse that “everyone knows that Solange and Lil Wayne dated.” Neither Lil Wayne nor Solange has publicly confirmed the rumor. Additionally, Reginae’s reflections arrive as Lil Wayne prepares for a summer tour marking the 20th anniversary of his iconic Tha Carter series. The trek begins June 30 in Bangor, Maine, with special guests 2 Chainz and The Game. The latter is also celebrating two decades since his debut album, The Documentary. The tour will move through Denver, Nashville, and other major cities across North America. It promises a blend of nostalgia and new performances for fans. Hip-Hop Legends Take Center Stage This Summer Lil Wayne’s anniversary dates are part of a broader summer of milestone concerts. Jay-Z recently announced two shows at Yankee Stadium honoring 30 years of Reasonable Doubt and 25 years of The Blueprint. Tickets went on sale Monday. Overwhelming demand—over 800,000 fans vying for passes—quickly became a trending topic across social media. Between these two tours, summer is shaping up as a celebration of hip-hop’s enduring legacy. It offers fans a chance to witness landmark performances from some of the genre’s most influential voices.

Megan Thee Stallion will soon be able to add another achievement to her very extensive resume: Broadway star. This week, the rapper is set to make her Broadway debut in Moulin Rouge! The Musical. On Monday (Mar.23), the Houston hottie jumped on social media to share a promotional video for the upcoming show. “Thee Moulin Rouge is a STATE. OF. MIND,” she wrote in the post’s caption. In the video, Megan, donning a top hat, red coat, and cane, seemingly becomes the character Harlod Zidler, the owner of the fictional Moulin Rouge club. The rapper will be the first woman to portray the character in a gender-swapped performance. “No matter your sin, you’re welcome here,” Megan says in the video. “No matter your desire, you’re welcome here. For this is more than a nightclub, the Moulin Rouge is a state of mind.” Just a few weeks back, the rapper gave fans a behind-the-scenes look at her rehearsals. In the video, which The Shade Room shared, Megan gives a quick rundown of her day, which includes exploring the theater, having fittings, and even meeting with a dialect coach. View this post on Instagram “Theatre is definitely a new opportunity that I’m excited to embrace,” Megan Thee Stallion Says Megan is set to appear in the production from March 24 to May 17. “Stepping onto the Broadway stage and joining the Moulin Rouge! The Musical team is an absolute honor,” the rapper said in a recent statement. “I’ve always believed in pushing myself creatively, and theatre is definitely a new opportunity that I’m excited to embrace. Broadway demands a different level of discipline, preparation, and storytelling, but I’m up for the challenge and can’t wait for the Hotties to see a new side of me.” In other news, while in Milan last month, Megan Thee Stallion spoke candidly about love during a casual outing with Olympians Brittany Bowe and Hilary Knight, who recently announced their engagement. After watching a TikTok clip of Knight’s proposal, Megan offered her congratulations. “I heard y’all just got engaged, congrats! I love love, that’s so sweet,” she said. Then, almost to herself, she added, “Manifesting my engagement, too,” crossing her fingers with a quiet laugh.