In June, music producer Timbaland unveiled a bold experiment: an AI-generated artist named TaTa Taktumi, alongside his new venture, StageZero. The announcement has sparked widespread discussion, especially after the release of a music video featuring Taktumi, whose lyrics have drawn both fascination and critique. In her latest track, TaTa Taktumi delivers provocative lines: “I put ice on my shooter / he gonna duck immigration / b*tch I’m back now / check my stats now.” Fans and critics alike have debated the lyrics and the broader implications of an AI performer representing aspects of Black culture, raising questions about creativity, authenticity, and ethics. Speaking with Variety, Timbaland described TaTa Taktumi and StageZero as a new form of intellectual property. “TaTa’s gonna shock the world, man. I don’t want to reveal too much yet, but it ain’t what people think,” he said. He compared the project to Disney, adding, “I’m blurring the lines — TaTa is something truly unique. The video is 85% human-made; I’m only utilizing AI about 15% or less.” The release of a video snippet on X (formerly Twitter) ignited immediate reaction. One user wrote, “Using AI to create a non-Black artist to embody Black culture just so you can exploit without guilt is f*cking insane.” Another posted, “Timbaland destroying his own legacy wasn’t in my 2025 cards,” reflecting the intensity of the debate. Timbaland Defends AI in Music Despite the criticism, Timbaland insists AI is a tool, not a replacement for human creativity. “I don’t generate music like that because you still need the human element. I just use it to enhance other aspects of my music,” he told Variety. He also stressed the importance of skill and taste in using AI effectively. “It’s similar to traditional music: If you don’t grasp it well enough, you won’t achieve your desired outcome; your taste matters significantly. Poor taste leads to what they call ‘AI slop.’ However, if it’s utilized by someone proficient, you’ll be able to discern quality differences. You must treat [AI] as a collaborator rather than a creator.” Timbaland now occupies a contested space between innovation and cultural responsibility. While AI offers opportunities to expand creative possibilities, it also raises questions about representation and ethics. With TaTa Taktumi at the center of this conversation, the dialogue over artistry, technology, and accountability is far from over. | Timbaland debuted the first music video from his AI-generated ‘artist’, TaTa Taktumi pic.twitter.com/dknkOSvp7j — Blackish Press (@blackishpress) October 13, 2025

On November 8, Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater will host one of the year’s most anticipated music events. Sleepy Brown, Killer Mike, and JID are set to perform a tribute to Outkast as the Atlanta duo is officially inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Fans and artists have long called the honor overdue, recognizing Outkast’s groundbreaking influence on Southern hip-hop. Their enduring mark on global music culture makes this tribute significant. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame confirmed the lineup on Instagram. They revealed that the three artists will celebrate André 3000 and Big Boi’s contributions to music and storytelling. For Sleepy Brown and Killer Mike, the performance carries deep roots. Both artists are longtime members of the Dungeon Family, the Atlanta collective that shaped the city’s hip-hop identity. JID, one of the most acclaimed voices in modern rap, represents a new generation inspired by Outkast’s innovation. His participation adds a fresh layer to the tribute, connecting past and present through Atlanta’s creative legacy. JID’s admiration for Outkast goes beyond respect. The rapper recently hinted at collaborating with André 3000, sparking speculation about a potential project. This could bridge eras of Atlanta hip-hop. While the details remain unconfirmed, the idea alone underscores Outkast’s lasting artistic impact. Even decades after their rise, their influence continues to inspire artists. They are redefining sound and style today. Killer Mike Reflects on Rivalry with Travis Scott In a recent conversation with Shannon Sharpe, Killer Mike opened up about his friendly rivalry with Travis Scott, mixing humor with competitive pride. “He brought some light bars. It was cute, you know? I appreciated it,” Mike said. Though he respects Scott and often takes his kids to his concerts, he made clear that his confidence as an MC remains unshaken. “Aye, man, I’m here to win. If you a Travis Scott disparaging me, I don’t give a damn. I wake up every day and kiss my Grammys. What you gon’ do? Nobody can outrap me,” he said. His words capture the spirit of hip-hop at its core—where competition fuels creativity, and legacy is built through mastery and self-belief. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (@rockhall)

Jonathan Majors recalls sharing his suicidal ideations with his wife, Meagan Good. While on Kirk Franklin’s Den of Kings podcast, Majors says, “I was on suicide watch,” he shared. “There were times when… me and my girlfriend, me and my fiancé, and now me and my wife, we never spoke about it, but she never left me alone. I never let myself be alone.” The Creed III actor shared that he “bluntly” told Good about the depth of his mental and emotional pain during one of his darkest periods. “I told her I didn’t know if I wanted to be here anymore,” he admitted. “The funny thing about that is that… I’ve learned that those things, and having an event happen to you and getting arrested or losing a job… You think that’s the thing that gets you, but it’s usually, I found for myself, it was something way, way, way, way back,” he said. “I mean, drug overdose… Yep. Damn near lived on a roof, just plenty of—I don’t even smoke cigarettes—plenty of cigarettes and whiskey. I actually wrote a letter. I’ve done the whole thing and been there.” Majors was joined by by Kevin Fredericks, NLE Choppa, Ray J, and Dr. Jay Barnett, and was commended for his “courage.” “But we are all born into a society in which our narrative as Black men, we’re born into a narrative that puts us downhill,” he continued. “And then you end up having to pretend that you’re somebody that you’re not to get through certain doors that I got through.”

In hip-hop, rivalries are often as defining as the music itself, shaping both careers and public perception. Recently, 50 Cent and Cam’ron solidified their alliance while reigniting long-standing disputes with Dame Dash and Jim Jones, demonstrating how old tensions continue to reverberate through the culture. Last weekend, Miami’s LIV Nightclub hosted a high-energy showcase as 50 Cent joined Cam’ron on stage. Fans captured the electric atmosphere as the two rappers traded verses, blending nostalgia with current relevance. Against the backdrop of simmering conflicts with former collaborators Dash and Jones, the performance carried a charged subtext, turning the night into more than just a concert—it was a statement. Tensions with Dame Dash resurfaced when 50 Cent announced plans for a premium television series inspired by the 2002 film Paid in Full. Cam’ron, integral to the original project, partnered on the venture. Dash challenged 50 Cent’s claims to the rights and later suggested a truce, which was quickly rebuffed. “I agree with Dame [100] percent; it’s better to work together,” 50 Cent admitted. “But then CAM chimed in with a resounding ‘f*ck Dame,’ highlighting just how deep the divisions run.” Cam’ron’s Perspective on Long-Standing Tensions The feud with Jim Jones adds another layer to the story. On the Roc Solid podcast, Cam’ron reflected on 15 years of unresolved disputes. “The reunions and arguments—it’s been 15 years,” he said. “Our time together as a group lasted only seven years, yet the disputes have extended far beyond that.” He also recalled the diss tracks exchanged over the years. “He released a song titled ‘Frienemies’ back in 2009; that’s 17 years of dissing. I don’t focus on it anymore, though; my attention is on more positive things.” The entangled histories of 50 Cent, Cam’ron, Dame Dash, and Jim Jones underscore how alliances and rivalries define hip-hop’s narrative. Music, ego, and legacy intertwine, keeping audiences captivated as these artists navigate collaboration, competition, and personal stakes. As the story continues to unfold, the possibility of future partnerships—or renewed confrontations—remains a compelling lens through which to view the genre. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 2Cool2Blog (@2cool2bl0g)

Rod Wave has formally challenged Grizzly Touring, claiming the company is attempting to force him into renegotiating their partnership after a series of canceled performances. The dispute revolves around his “Last Lap” tour, originally slated for late last year but now postponed into 2025. Grizzly Touring maintains that contractual obligations require Rod to continue working with them, despite mounting tensions from the delays. In a counter-filing on October 12, Rod Wave’s legal team asserted that Grizzly management applied undue pressure for him to fulfill tour obligations. Rod cited logistical hurdles, production setbacks, and routing conflicts. These made the original tour plan untenable. He is now petitioning the courts to allow him to self-promote his upcoming “The Redemption Experience” tour. It is tied to a new album, and he seeks to have his contract with Grizzly declared void. James Sammataro, Rod’s attorney, described the demand to perform under the existing contract as akin to “indentured servitude.” Sammataro added that Rod no longer trusts Grizzly to manage his music. He is unwilling to participate in any further promotional work with the company. Grizzly Touring’s Response Grizzly Touring, in turn, contends that Rod Wave’s canceled performances constitute a breach of contract. The company is seeking $27 million in reimbursements for advance payments. Grizzly argues that Rod’s claims—labeling its booking decisions as “unilateral and onerous”—do not exempt him from financial responsibility. Their countersuit notes that only 12 of the originally scheduled 35 shows occurred as planned. Additionally, many were rescheduled without Rod’s prior knowledge. Rod Wave is pursuing compensation not just for canceled dates but also for reputational harm caused by the disruptions. As both sides dig in, the outcome of this dispute could significantly influence his upcoming tours. It may also set broader precedents for how promoters engage with high-profile artists. The clash between Rod Wave and Grizzly Touring highlights the delicate balance between artist independence and contractual obligation in the music industry. Its resolution may reshape touring practices. It could also redefine expectations for the relationships between performers and promoters across the broader entertainment landscape.

As Hispanic Heritage Month shines a spotlight on Latin voices shaping culture today, rising star Honey Bxby stands out as one of the most authentic and fearless. Blending R&B, soul, and Latin rhythm, the New Jersey native channels her heritage into every note — turning personal stories into universal anthems. In an exclusive conversation with HOT 97, Honey Bxby opens up about how her upbringing influences her sound, the importance of representation in music, and what it truly means to celebrate her roots while paving her own lane in the industry. How does your Hispanic heritage influence your sound and artistry?My heritage shows up in everything I do. I grew up surrounded by so much energy and that naturally finds its way into my music. Whether it’s the way I sing certain melodies or the attitude I bring to a record, that influence is always in there. It’s part of my DNA, so even when I’m not thinking about it, it comes through. Are there any traditions or cultural values from your background that shape the way you create or perform?Family and community are huge in my culture, and that plays a big part in how I move. Everything I do isn’t just for me, it’s for my family. I wanna be able to give them the world one day so it makes me wanna work harder. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Honey Bxby (@itshoneybxby) What does Hispanic Heritage Month personally mean to you?It’s a reminder to celebrate who we are. For me, it’s about honoring my roots and showing love to the people who made it possible for artists like me to have a voice. How do you see Latin culture shaping the future of music right now?Latin culture is everywhere in music right now. Like, Bad Bunny is literally doing the Super Bowl! it’s influencing every genre. Is there a song in your catalog that feels the most personal to you? Why?“Broken Mirrors” feels really personal to me. It came from a real place and how it feels dealing with my own personal struggles in silence. It’s the first time I opened up like that on a record that has been released. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Honey Bxby (@itshoneybxby) Do you think there’s enough representation of Afro-Latin or diverse Latin identities in mainstream media?I think we’re making progress, as I said before a Latin artist, one of the biggest artist in the world is doing the Super Bowl! That says so much in itself. What message do you hope young Hispanic fans take away from seeing you succeed?That they can do anything and I want them to see that you don’t have to change who you are to shine. Who you are is your power. If your culture had a “sound,” what would it be?It would sound like love, rhythm, and attitude all mixed together. How do you use your platform to celebrate your roots?I try to keep my culture present in everything from how I speak, to the visuals I create, to the music itself. I love showing pride in my background in ways that feel natural to me, even if it’s through little details. One word to describe how you feel during Hispanic Heritage Month? Proud. What’s next for Honey Bxby?More music, more stories, more growth. I’m in a space where I want to push myself creatively and keep giving people the real me. I’ve got a lot to say, & I’m ready for the world to hear it. As Honey Bxby continues to carve her own space in music, she stands as a reminder of how culture, confidence, and creativity can coexist beautifully. Her journey reflects the power of embracing one’s roots while pushing boundaries — a message that resonates deeply during Hispanic Heritage Month and beyond. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Honey Bxby (@itshoneybxby)

Despite all the controversy surrounding singer d4vd, Meek Mill is a fan of the promotion his music is getting and wants to replicate it for himself. On October 11, in a now-deleted Instagram Story post, the Philadelphia native reposted a story from TMZ about the singer transferring two of his Texas residences. “I need his promo for my album rollout…who do I call?” he wrote in the post’s caption. It’s unclear if Meek is familiar with the controversy surrounding the up-and-coming singer. If Meek Mill knew the details about the conversation surrounding the singer, one might assume he wouldn’t be so eager to attract the attention that d4vd has been getting. Back in September, it was reported that the singer had been linked to a LAPD investigation regarding a missing 15-year-old girl, Celeste Rivas. The teen was later found butchered in a Tesla vehicle registered in his name. Meek Mill says he needs D4vd’s “promo” for his album rollout: “I need his promo for my album … who do I call?” pic.twitter.com/9Gp75iQEcW — Kurrco (@Kurrco) October 12, 2025 Meek Mill Says He’ll Be ‘Blackballed’ Without $5 Million for Upcoming Album Meek Mill is mapping out the next chapter of his career with unusual candor. His vision includes a new album, a book, and a short film—projects he says cannot move forward without outside investment. To get there, he has made a public appeal for $5 million. He casts the request as both a personal necessity and a broader indictment of the music industry’s financial structures. On X, Meek Mill vented frustration at record labels he argues have stifled innovation. “I need 5 million in funding for a book, album, and short film,” he wrote. “These label deals are not looking fair at all… they essentially ruined the game… but I have the potential to reboot everything!” The post doubled as a critique of entrenched industry practices. It also served as a call for alternative financing models. He went further, questioning why artists—despite generating billions for the business—struggle to secure straightforward bank loans for their projects.

Footage has recirculated of Kamala Harris addressing a group of pro-Palestine activists. Harris, at the time, was on her first stop for her multi-city book tour for her new memoir, 107 Days. The activist group accused her of having “blood on her hands” regarding her stance on the war conflict in Gaza. “People in our administration can tell you what my voice was in those rooms – in those closed rooms – in the Oval Office,” Harris told the protestors in a packed New York City venue. “I was not [the] president. I couldn’t make the decisions, but I made my position clear.” USA Today reported that the demonstrators were quickly booed by the crowd and escorted out of the venue. Not long after, a dozen more protesters arrived, causing police enforcement to be involved. Back in September, Harris dropped off a memoir, 107 Days, chronicling her history campaign for the 2024 Presidential Election. She also discussed her thoughts after losing to Donald Trump, as well as the challenges she faced with Joe Biden and the Democratic Party. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Shade Room (@theshaderoom) Kamala Harris Won’t Return To ‘Broken’ Political System, She Says Back in August, Kamala Harris stopped by The Late Show with Stephen Colbert for a special extended interview. She revealed to the host her decision to step away from politics. She noted that while she loves being a public servant, the political system is too “broken.” Harris had been in talks to run for Governor of California in 2026. However, she later announced that she would not take part in the race. Colbert jokingly hinted that she had her eyes on something bigger — possibly the 2028 Presidential Election. Despite sharing a brief laugh with Colbert and the audience, Harris declared at this point in her life, she “doesn’t wanna go back” into politics. She added, “I always believed that as fragile as our democracy is, our systems would be strong enough to defend our most fundamental principles. And I think right now that they’re not as strong as they need to be. For now, I don’t want to go back into that system.”

“A lot of this case is about [the] principle for me,” Los Angeles Lakers Fan Andrew Garcia told ABC7 Los Angeles. In court documents obtained by the outlet, on October 8th, Garcia filed a claim in small claims court, accusing LeBron James of “fraud, deception, and misrepresentation.” According to Garcia, he spent over $800 on tickets after James announced he’d reveal “the decision of all decisions” in a social media post earlier this week. Similar to many other sports fans, Garcia assumed that James was making a retirement announcement. However, that was not the case. It turns out the “announcement” James had made was part of a new brand partnership with popular cognac brand Hennessy. The advertisement took inspiration from his controversial decision to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2010 for the Miami Heat. Coincidentally, James’ post came weeks ahead of a highly anticipated game between the Lakers and the Cleveland Cavaliers. The game is currently scheduled for the end of this month, on October 30. Lakers fan who is suing LeBron James for alleged fraud and deception over his Decision 2.0 Hennessy commercial speaks out “This case is about principle to me; it’s not so much about the money. I am only suing to recover what I paid” pic.twitter.com/Yo528AkCtH — FearBuck (@FearedBuck) October 10, 2025 “He should have known this would happen,” Garcia Said That said, Garcia had sincerely believed that James intended to make a similar farewell tour move like Kobe did in 2015, but that ended up not being the case. “Right away, I thought back to when Kobe Bryant announced his farewell tour about nine or ten years ago, and I saw that as an opportunity that I didn’t want to miss out on,” Garcia told ABC7. “He should know that fans are gonna go spend their hard-earned money thinking that this is something meaningful.” Garcia added, “For him to do something like that, he should know— or should have known—that this was gonna happen.” Garcia stated he’s only suing to “recover” what he paid for the tickets—which totals to around $865.66—and is not seeking any “emotional relief.” So far, neither LeBron nor one of his representatives has commented on the matter.

Earlier this week, TMZ reported that d4vd —the up-and-coming alternative R&B artist, who blew up on TikTok and is now the target of a murder investigation—recently made an interesting real estate move. According to legal documents obtained by the outlet, d4vd transferred the deed to two residences he owns in the Houston area. TMZ reported that the change took place between September 18 and 22. The 18th had been the same day that cops executed a search warrant on one of his Texas homes. Upon the police’s arrival, it was discovered that the singer’s parents and siblings had already been occupying that space. The visit had been prompted by a false report that there was a shooting incident. According to reports, the caller had allegedly used a device to mask their voice. Interscope Halts D4vd’s Deluxe Album Amid Murder Investigation Back in September, it was reported that Interscope Records shelved the singer’s deluxe album, Withered, and halted all promotional material. Sources close to the situation confirmed with TMZ that Interscope’s parent company, Universal Music Group, has hit the pause button on all promotional materials. The deluxe project was slated to release on September 19. Earlier that month, it was reported that the singer had been linked to a LAPD investigation, regarding a missing 15-year-old girl, Celeste Rivas; she had been found butchered in a Tesla vehicle registered in his name. Resurfaced tweets, leaked music, and social media speculation have added layers to the story, complicating his ongoing collaborative projects. Kali Uchis, for example, announced she would step away from a joint effort with d4vd, citing uncertainty surrounding the case. Amid these developments, allegations of grooming and inappropriate contact have surfaced. This intensifies scrutiny. d4vd has remained largely silent, aside from brief statements from his representatives and limited fan interactions.