In a revealing discussion with DJ Akademiks, A$AP Rocky addressed the long-speculated tensions with Drake. This gave fans an unusually direct look at the personal dynamics behind the headlines. Rocky spoke candidly about friendships and rivalries in the music world. He unpacked the often-complex emotions that fuel public disputes. Moreover, his willingness to engage openly has sparked conversation online, as listeners weighed his perspective against years of speculation. Akademiks highlighted the transparency Rocky brought to the conversation. “I put it to him straight,” he recalled, describing his question about whether romantic entanglements played a role in the feud. Rocky responded without hesitation, admitting a personal dimension: “I ain’t gonna cap with you,” confirming that women were a factor in the perceived rivalry. The exchange offered a rare glimpse into how personal and professional lives can collide in the rap industry. The conversation also reflected the broader patterns of conflict in hip-hop. Akademiks remarked, “There’s a plethora of rappers with grievances against one another, yet many refuse to articulate the root causes directly. They shy away from saying, ‘This dude messed with my girl; how could I ever be cool with him again?’” Rocky’s openness illuminated the emotions that often remain hidden behind public personas. Akademiks Reveals Inside Details From His A$AP Rocky Interview Akademiks opens up about his interview with A$AP Rocky and confirms he directly asked Rocky about the rumored beef with Drake. Ak’s Question:He told Rocky straight up that he believes the tension between… pic.twitter.com/5jWuJhMAaE — Cousin Tino (@TINOISFUNNY) January 21, 2026 Rocky’s Hints Stir Speculation as Rap Rivalries Remain Unresolved The conversation also reflected the broader patterns of conflict in hip-hop. Akademiks remarked, “There’s a plethora of rappers with grievances against one another, yet many refuse to articulate the root causes directly. They shy away from saying, ‘This dude messed with my girl; how could I ever be cool with him again?’” Rocky’s openness illuminated the emotions that often remain hidden behind public personas. The dialogue comes as Rocky prepares to release his fourth studio album, Don’t Be Dumb. Fans believe the album contains tracks that may reference Drake. On “Stole Ya Flow,” Rocky raps, “First you stole my flow, so I stole yo’ b*tch,” blurring the line between artistic influence and personal history. While listeners speculate on the implications, Rocky maintains ambiguity. This leaves room for interpretation while fueling discussion. Nonetheless, Drake has not publicly responded to Rocky’s comments, and fans remain attentive. They are eager to see how these dynamics might influence future collaborations or continued rivalry.

In November, Drake found himself at the center of a legal dispute with Italian photographer Gabriele Galimberti, who alleged copyright infringement over an image featured in the music video for “What Did I Miss?”, released that July. Galimberti claimed that the arrangement of firearms appearing at roughly 14 seconds closely mirrored visuals from his own work, The Ameriguns. The case drew attention from fans and industry observers alike. In turn, it added another layer of scrutiny to Drake’s creative output. The lawsuit also touched on broader controversies surrounding both men. Galimberti faced backlash for a Balenciaga campaign featuring children with teddy bears dressed in S&M-inspired outfits. Meanwhile, Drake recently contended with public accusations from Kendrick Lamar during a highly publicized exchange. As the filing noted, “In light of Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics accusing Defendant Graham of pedophilia and the subsequent dismissal of Defendant Graham’s defamation lawsuit, it is apparent that Defendant Graham sought to insinuate that he, like Plaintiff, would ultimately be cleared of such allegations,” highlighting the complex intersections of reputation, art, and public perception. Drake Clears Legal Hurdle as Fans Anticipate Ninth Album AllHipHop reported that the copyright suit has now been dismissed “with prejudice,” preventing Galimberti from bringing the claim to court again. The resolution appears to leave each party responsible for their own legal costs. However, no further details have been disclosed. For Drake, the ruling represents a clear legal victory. It removes a potential hurdle and allows him to focus on his creative pursuits. This legal triumph arrives as anticipation grows for Drake’s ninth studio album, ICEMAN. Although an official release date has yet to be confirmed, insiders suggest it could arrive soon. This has sparked excitement among fans eager for new music. As Drake navigates both the courtroom and the studio, his standing in the music industry remains robust. This reinforces his influence in shaping contemporary hip-hop culture.

Over the weekend, social media lit up with unsubstantiated claims accusing Pooh Shiesty of robbing and attempting to kidnap Gucci Mane. No police filings, court records, or verified reports have backed up the story. Yet, the allegation spread rapidly across blogs and comment sections. The moment illustrated how quickly speculation can eclipse fact in the digital age. For many observers, the episode felt less like breaking news and more like a familiar cycle of online rumor-making. Gucci Mane appeared to respond without addressing the claims directly. On Monday evening, he posted a photo on Instagram displaying his jewelry. It was a visual reminder of calm and control amid the chatter. In the caption, he wrote, “We only roll Diamond Splits,” tagging the LooseLeaf brand. The comments quickly filled with fans reacting to the rumors. One fan warned, “Wake up. They talking crazy about you on these blogs!” Another questioned the post’s timing, adding, “This pic old wop & where is that watch at…. I expect the truth part 2 by next week.” View this post on Instagram Examining the Claims Around Pooh Shiesty Despite the volume of online discussion, there has been no credible evidence connecting Pooh Shiesty to any incident involving Gucci Mane. The allegations were debated on the No Jumper podcast. There, hosts Adam 22 and Wack 100 openly doubted their legitimacy. Wack 100 dismissed the story outright, calling it “bullsht.” He went further, arguing that given Shiesty’s existing legal situation, “It’s gotta be some bullsht unless he’s that damn stupid.” Pooh Shiesty has recently been entangled in other waves of misinformation. Earlier this month, DJ Akademiks incorrectly reported that the rapper had returned to jail with a release date set for April. However, his legal team later clarified that Shiesty is on home confinement. This is a condition tied to his prior firearm case rather than any new arrest or violation.

Stefon Diggs delivered a timely performance that helped carry the New England Patriots into the AFC Championship, finishing with four catches, 40 yards, and a touchdown in the Divisional Round win over the Houston Texans. The numbers were modest, but the moment was not. Diggs’ presence steadied the offense during critical stretches, offering the kind of reliability teams lean on deep into January. By the end of the night, the victory resonated well beyond the stadium. Cardi B made sure of that. Shortly after the game, she took to social media in visible celebration, appearing in a video shared by No Jumper where she shouted, “TD Jakes. Let’s go right now. I’m not f*cking playing. What’s up? Walk them down in the name of Jesus!” Her enthusiasm carried over to X, where she addressed analysts who had favored Houston, including Mina Kimes and Ryan Clark. “THEY DIDN’T BELIEVE IN US!!! I LIKE US!!!!! WE ALL WE GOT!!!!! WE ALL WE NEED !!!!” she wrote, leaning fully into the moment. On the field, Diggs’ most impactful contribution came in the second quarter, when he secured a touchdown amid tight coverage. The catch shifted momentum and reinforced his value as a dependable target in high-pressure situations. While New England spread the ball effectively, Diggs’ awareness and timing stood out. It was the kind of play that rarely dominates highlight reels but often defines playoff outcomes. View this post on Instagram Spotlight Beyond the Sidelines Off the field, Diggs’ relationship with Cardi B has drawn increasing attention. The two became public after her separation from Offset in 2024, later confirming their relationship and announcing they were expecting a child. Cardi welcomed their baby in November, adding a personal milestone to an already eventful year. Throughout the postseason, she has remained an outspoken supporter of both Diggs and the Patriots. With the Texans eliminated, New England now turns to a looming AFC Championship matchup against the Denver Broncos. A Super Bowl berth is on the line, with either the Los Angeles Rams or Seattle Seahawks waiting on the other side. For Diggs, the opportunity represents another chance to shape a defining postseason run. For Cardi B, it’s yet another reason to celebrate loudly—and publicly—as the stakes rise.

NBA YoungBoy is pulling back the curtain on the thinking behind MASA, his latest project, during a recent interview with Complex. The title—short for Make America Slime Again—signals a philosophy rooted more in authority and allegiance than traditional politics. Asked to explain it, the Baton Rouge rapper put it plainly: “Follow whatever Trump applying. Enforce whatever Trump’s applying.” At just 26, and coming off a year where he was widely hailed as Best Rapper Alive, NBA YoungBoy continues to position himself as both a musical force and a cultural lightning rod. Pressed further about any personal ties to President Donald Trump, he chose not to go there. Still, the sentiment has appeared before in his music, and it functions more as symbolism than policy. Earlier this year, on the track “XXX,” he rapped, “Whatever Trump doin’, b*tch it’s good for the youngins (All Hail Trump).” The lyric fits within a broader pattern in his work. Therefore, power, loyalty, and survival are recurring themes rather than ideological endorsements. NBA YoungBoy explains his “Make America Slime Again” album title: “Follow whatever Trump applying… In every way… Enforce whatever Trump’s applying. That’s it.” (via @jrosethereturn / @ComplexMusic) pic.twitter.com/5Y9PnLzcm1 — Kurrco (@Kurrco) January 20, 2026 NBA YoungBoy Expands Into Film with Documentary Debut The conversation arrives as NBA YoungBoy widens his creative footprint beyond music. He recently launched a production company, 38 Films, marking a deliberate move into film and long-form storytelling. The company’s first project is a documentary developed with Foundation Media Partners that will chronicle his life and career. It is directed by Nico Ballesteros, who is known for In Whose Name?. The film aims to capture the artist outside the confines of headlines and chart positions. Patrick Hughes, the chief executive of Foundation Media Partners, framed the project succinctly: “NBA YoungBoy is not just an artist; he’s a cultural force.” The documentary, Hughes said, is intended to present an unfiltered look at that influence. The film follows the release of Slime Cry, YoungBoy’s ninth studio album, which kept his momentum firmly intact. With new ventures taking shape, his next chapter appears poised to extend well beyond music alone.

A$AP Rocky is set to hit the road worldwide in support of his newly released album, Don’t Be Dumb. During an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, he shared the story behind collaborating with iconic filmmaker Tim Burton on the album’s cover, giving fans a glimpse into the creative process behind the visuals. Rocky recounted the persistence it took to secure Burton’s involvement, joking that he had to “stalk and harass” the director over several years. Reflecting on their meeting, he said, “I reached out to him and said, ‘I’d love to hang out and share some vibes.’ After hitting him up in Malibu during his break, I played him an early version of the album. He seemed to really connect with it.” Rocky ultimately asked Burton to illustrate the cover, and while the director agreed, his work on projects like Wednesday and Beetlejuice 2 meant the timeline would stretch. A particularly touching moment occurred when Rocky noticed a half-finished sketch on Burton’s table. Burton explained that he engages in this creative practice with his daughter every morning, blending artistry with family bonding. Rocky described the gesture as meaningful, viewing it as a symbol of care, creativity, and mentorship. A$AP Rocky speaks on how he got Tim Burton to do the album cover for ‘DON’T BE DUMB’: “I had to basically stalk and harass him for a few years.” (via The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon) pic.twitter.com/WHqi6aGiW5 — Kurrco (@Kurrco) January 20, 2026 Music Videos and Tour Announcement In tandem with these insights, Rocky released a dual music video for “WHISKEY” and “BLACK DEMARCO,” featuring Burton’s illustrations and artistic influence. The video’s release coincided with the announcement of the Don’t Be Dumb World Tour, which will span 42 dates across North America, Europe, and the United Kingdom in 2026. The tour marks a major chapter in Rocky’s career, offering fans the chance to experience his latest work live. With anticipation building, the series of performances promises to blend music, storytelling, and visual artistry, solidifying Rocky’s reputation as both a musical innovator and a cultural force.

Ski Mask The Slump God promises always to remember his late best friend and fellow Members Only rapper XXXTentacion’s legacy, whether fans like it or not. On Jan. 17, 2026, the Florida rapper took to his Instagram Story to address criticism from fans who claim he leans too heavily on XXXTentacion’s music during his live shows. The comments struck a nerve, prompting Ski to clarify his setlists, defend his performance record, and explain why honoring his late friend remains central to his shows. “N***as talking about I only play X at my shows,” Ski wrote, opening with a blunt rebuttal. Ski Mask the Slump God goes off on fans complaining that he only plays XXXTENTACION’s music at his shows “N****s talking about I only play X at my shows n***a if you was informed you would know I play 100 of my songs before that, my bad my best friend who I made the most music… pic.twitter.com/V9dBkghSA3 — Wost (@mosthiphop) January 19, 2026 He quickly challenged that perception. “If you was informed you would known I play 100 of my songs before that,” he added, suggesting critics were speaking without firsthand knowledge. According to Ski, the narrative ignores the breadth of his catalog and the structure of his performances. Ski Mask The Slump God has released two full-length studio albums. The most emotional moment came when he addressed XXXTentacion’s death. “My bad my best friend who I made the most music with passed and I want to keep his name alive,” Ski wrote. Ski Mask The Slump God Rips Fans Complaining About His Members Only Friend XXXTentacion Tribute Before His Shows The statement underscored the bond between the two artists, who rose together as core members of the Members Only collective. For Ski, performing X’s music functions as tribute, not dependence, and reflects a shared history that shaped both careers. Ski also responded to claims questioning his live show credibility. “I also seen someone say someone saved me from performing at Rolling Loud,” he wrote, before firing back, “show me one Rolling Loud set that I don’t have the whole crowd jumping.” He framed crowd reaction as the real metric, not online chatter. XXXTentacion and Ski Mask The Slump God frequently toured together early in their career. He further rejected claims that his popularity has declined. “I sell out all my solo tours 3 to 4k people buddy,” Ski said, dismissing talk of smaller venues. “They said I probably do 500 people venues,” he added, calling the idea disconnected from reality. Ski closed with a wider point about taste and respect. “Music is subjective,” he wrote, comparing fan bias to dismissing artists like Taylor Swift despite clear success. His final line, “When I drop all year. I don’t want to hear you cop pleas either,” signaled confidence going forward. The message blended frustration with loyalty, showing Ski Mask defending his present while preserving XXXTentacion’s legacy.

Nicki Minaj had some choice words for Don Lemon, following his reporting on an anti-ICE protest in a Minnesota church. On Sunday (Jan.18), protestors stormed a Minnesota church after it was revealed that its pastor had alleged ties to the federal agency. Don Lemon, who had been reporting via his livestream, confronted that pastor about his connections to the group. Not long after the clip began to circulate online, it somehow reached Nicki Minaj’s timeline, and she slammed the long-time journalist. Minaj called Lemon a disgusting “c*cksucker” and demanded he be thrown in jail. “DON ‘COCK SUCKIN’ LEMON IS DISGUSTING. HOW DARE YOU?” she wrote in an X post. I WANT THAT THUG IN JAIL!!!!! HE WOULD NEVER DO THAT TO ANY OTHER RELIGION. LOCK HIM UP!!!!!” Lemon told TMZ he’s not “surprised” about Nicki’s actions. “[She] does not understand journalism and is weighing in on matters that are above her capacity.” DON ‘COCK SUCKIN’ LEMON IS DISGUSTING. HOW DARE YOU? I WANT THAT THUG IN JAIL!!!!! HE WOULD NEVER DO THAT TO ANY OTHER RELIGION. LOCK HIM UP!!!!! pic.twitter.com/xoQBl9KDJY — Nicki Minaj (@NICKIMINAJ) January 19, 2026 Nicki Minaj Slams Gavin Newsom At Turning Point Event This isn’t the first time Nicki Minaj has used her platform to defend her beliefs. The rapper recently slammed Gov.Gavin Newsom during her appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest. Throughout her conversation with Erica Kirk, the wife of late right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk, Nicki Minaj discussed her ongoing beef with California Gov. Gavin Newsom. Minaj specifically commented on Newsom’s support for gender affirming care for transgender youth. Not long ago, during an appearance on The Ezra Klein Show, Newsom said, “I want to see trans kids…I have a trans godson. There’s no governor who has signed more pro-trans legislation than I have. No one has been a stronger advocate for the LGBTQ community.” During the event, Minaj decided to re-read one of her X posts where she criticized Newsom. “Imagine being the guy running on wanting to see trans kids, haha, not even a trans adult would run on that,” she read. “Normal adults wake up and think they want to see healthy, safe, happy kids — not Gav.”

Rihanna has joined the chat and wants to let people know she’s riding behind her man, A$AP Rocky. The FENTY Beauty founder recently commented under a post of the rapper performing his new song, “STOLE YA FLOW,” where he supposedly takes shots at Drake. Rocky had recently headlined Amazon Music’s new live docu-performance series, Songline. Judging by Ri’s comment, she is in full support of the track. “I meaaaannnn….!!!!” she wrote. “First you stole my flow, so I stole yo’ b*tch,” Rocky raps. “I can’t trust a soul, just my pole and my kids/Swear to never lie, cross my heart, hope to die, uh/Then I sold the switch, then I hit it with a kiss, mwah.” Following the release of his long-awaited album Don’t Be Dumb, fans quickly zeroed in on the track, with many interpreting certain lyrics as a possible shot at the Toronto rapper. However, Rocky has now made it clear that the song was not intended as a diss. In a recent interview, the Harlem rapper explained that “Stole Ya Flow” isn’t about Drake specifically. When asked if it can be confirmed he was dissing Drake, Rocky explained, “It’s for whoever feels like it’s about them.” Rihanna post a comment on A$AP Rocky’s diss track “STOLE YA FLOW” “I meaaaannnn….!!!!” pic.twitter.com/2ie13n1Bgs — DailyRapFacts (@DailyRapFacts) January 17, 2026 A$AP Rocky Calls Himself Rihanna’s Husband; Fans Can’t Get Enough In other news, during a recent interview with Perfect, Rocky details where his happiness lies these days. “I think peace really makes me happy. Being a father and a partner and a loving husband in my family is what makes me really, really happy. I hope this doesn’t sound cliché, and I would hate if it does, because that’s what honestly does get me going.” He continues, “Being able to express myself creatively, being able to be a family man, and being able to be an artisan. It doesn’t matter what hat I wear that day, it’s just about being able to give it my all and do these things.” This isn’t the first time Rocky hinted at potential wedding bells between the two. During a previous interview with Elle Magazine, Rocky asked the reporter, “How do you know I’m not already a husband? I’m still not gonna confirm it,” which left fans wondering.