A federal judge has reportedly dismissed Drake’s defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG), bringing an end to the rapper’s legal fight over Kendrick Lamar’s hit diss track, “Not Like Us.” According to reports, Judge Jeannette A. Vargas issued the ruling on October 9, 2025, concluding that the controversial lyrics at the center of the dispute—where Lamar accused Drake of being a “certified pedophile” and implied misconduct—were protected speech under the First Amendment. The Case: We previously reported that Drake filed the lawsuit earlier this year, alleging that UMG, which represents both him and Kendrick Lamar, defamed and damaged his reputation by distributing and monetizing “Not Like Us.” The track, which dominated charts and social media following its release, was widely regarded as the decisive blow in the highly publicized rap feud between the two artists. Court Documents: In court documents, Drake’s legal team argued that UMG knowingly profited from the song despite its “false and malicious” lyrics, claiming the company had a duty to prevent the release of content that could endanger his safety or reputation. UMG, however, pushed back, asserting that diss tracks are a recognized form of artistic expression, rooted in exaggeration, metaphor, and rhetorical flair. Their attorneys maintained that no reasonable listener would interpret the lyrics as literal factual claims. Judge Vargas sided with UMG, writing that the lyrics constituted “rhetorical hyperbole and opinion” within the cultural context of a rap battle.“The statements in question would not be understood by a reasonable listener as factual allegations,” she noted in her opinion. “They are part of a longstanding artistic tradition of exaggerated, often confrontational expression.” The court found that Lamar’s lyrics—though harsh—fell squarely under the protection of free speech, and that UMG could not be held liable for distributing an artist’s creative work. Drake has yet to publicly speak out about the dismissal of the case.

JT of the City Girls turned up the heat on Cardi B this week, firing off a brutal tweet on October 9 that reignited their long-running feud and pulled BIA into the crossfire. The post came after Cardi’s viral X (formerly Twitter) Space, where she addressed “bullying” accusations and defended herself following leaks of her unreleased diss record, “No Hook.” JT had a few words for Cardi B pic.twitter.com/EE3H6BPrFQ — No Jumper (@nojumper) October 9, 2025 “Bodega baddie my ass, you chop cheeeeeese. This is facts! Spaces is not the studio,” JT wrote, mocking Cardi’s Bronx-inspired “Bodega Baddie” persona. “All jokes aside what happen to that song? I thought that was the song? Nobody wanted to be a Bodega Baddie???? Well look at that ugly ass bitch who made the song… I get it!” The City Girls rapper didn’t stop there. In another jab, she added, “Ugly b has not shut her dick sucking ass mouth since ‘No Hook’ got leaked, do that hoe rest? When is her honeymoon stage with the new bd? Like go chill & look pretty, wait… nvm just go chill purge face!” JT Rips Cardi B’s X Space Rant The “new bd” (baby daddy) remark appeared to reference Cardi’s rumored split from Offset, while “purge face” echoed online mockery about the rapper’s recent appearance. The comments landed just days after Cardi’s fiery Space, where she called out BIA for allegedly spreading rumors about her private life and claimed BIA’s hit “Whole Lotta Money” was originally sent to her. JT’s post seemed to mock both Cardi’s “No Hook” leak and her ongoing attempts to double down on her Bronx identity through the “Bodega” aesthetic — a recurring theme in her visuals and branding. The insults also deepened the divide between Cardi and a new wave of female rappers who accuse her of stirring online beef for attention. While Cardi hasn’t fired back yet, the post immediately lit up X, with fans from all sides weighing in and old clips of their 2022 back-and-forth resurfacing. JT’s latest attack adds fuel to a volatile rivalry that continues to define the tension between Cardi and other women in rap — turning social media into hip-hop’s most unpredictable battlefield.

A federal judge has dismissed Drake’s defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG). This closes—at least for now—one of the year’s most closely watched artist-versus-label disputes. The ruling follows the fallout from Kendrick Lamar’s viral diss track “Not Like Us,” which sparked a summer-long debate over artistry and competition. It also raised questions about the line between performance and personal attack. Judge Jeannette A. Vargas ruled that the disputed lyrics—one of which targeted Drake—were protected under the First Amendment as “rhetorical hyperbole.” They were not considered statements of fact. In her opinion, she wrote that within hip-hop’s long tradition of lyrical sparring, no “reasonable listener” would take such words literally. The court also found that UMG, as the track’s distributor, could not be held liable for content that qualifies as artistic expression. Rap’s freedom versus legal limits Drake’s legal team argued that UMG knowingly profited from material they believed to be defamatory. They contended that UMG should have acted to limit the song’s reach. UMG countered that diss tracks are naturally exaggerated and performative. They form a core part of rap’s creative culture. Following the decision, a spokesperson for Drake said the rapper plans to challenge the ruling. “We intend to appeal today’s ruling, and we look forward to the Court of Appeals reviewing it,” the spokesperson shared with HOT97. The dismissal underscores ongoing tension between free expression and defamation in modern music. As rap lyrics continue to blur the line between character and confession, Drake’s appeal could set an important precedent. The case may shape how courts interpret artistic expression born from rivalry, bravado, and cultural commentary in hip-hop.

Lil Durk is facing escalating legal trouble as federal prosecutors build a case alleging his involvement in a murder-for-hire plot targeting fellow artist Quando Rondo. The charges have drawn national attention, especially after the FBI revealed that threats—allegedly made by Durk’s supporters—were directed at both a federal prosecutor and a judge overseeing the proceedings. With Durk awaiting trial behind bars, the case has sparked growing concern about security inside and outside the courtroom. According to an FBI report, several threatening phone calls were made to officials in the Central District of California, including a U.S. Magistrate Judge and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ian Yanniello. One caller allegedly said, “If they get life… I’m gonna burn this motherfcker down. Burn it to the ground… It’s not a game btch,” while another threatened, “Free Durk, or we gonna shoot that motherf*cker up.” Investigators say these incidents reflect mounting hostility surrounding the case. Durk’s trial is set for January 6, 2026, and prosecutors have requested that an anonymous jury be empaneled, citing fears of intimidation and attempts to influence witnesses. In a motion to the court, prosecutors pointed to prior incidents as evidence that heightened security measures are warranted. Durk Faces Obstruction Claims Amid Murder Allegations Adding to the controversy, authorities claim Durk attempted to hide an Apple Watch with cellular access after it was confiscated by prison officials in late August 2025. Prosecutors allege he tried to obstruct the investigation instead of cooperating, compounding his legal troubles. Durk stands accused of orchestrating a shooting meant for Quando Rondo that instead left Rondo’s associate, Lul Pab, dead. He has adamantly denied the allegations. His defense team dismissed the indictment as “impermissibly vague,” calling for more transparency from the prosecution and pledging to fight the charges in full. As the trial nears, the case sits at the crossroads of celebrity influence, fan loyalty, and the criminal justice system—where every move, both in and out of court, unfolds under a glaring public spotlight.

Cardi B opens up about battling depression in an recent interview. the Grammy-winning rapper opened up about one of the most difficult periods of her life: battling depression while pregnant. During her appearance on the On Purpose podcast, Cardi revealed that the breakdown of her marriage to Offset took a heavy emotional toll on her as she carried their third child. “I felt the love dying from my end — from my end, from his end. I was very lonely because I chose to be lonely,” she explained. “While it was dying, I had a human growing in me, and I just kept thinking, ‘What’s life going to be without this person? What’s life going to be like, raising my last child without this person? What’s life going to be with that person not being my friend anymore?’” The Bronx native described how the pressure of maintaining her public image while privately struggling left her feeling lost. “It was like everything was crumbling at once,” she said. “My marriage, my emotions, my body — it was a lot.” Cardi also shared that she leaned on therapy and time to begin healing from that dark chapter, acknowledging that prioritizing her mental health became essential for both herself and her children. “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” she reflected. “I had to get myself together so I could be a better mom and a better me.” This isn’t the first time Cardi has been candid about mental health. She previously spoke about her experience with postpartum depression after giving birth to her daughter, Kulture, in 2018. Earlier this year, she also shared details about a “freak accident” during pregnancy that left her physically hurt and emotionally shaken — a reminder of how vulnerable even the biggest stars can be. Despite the challenges, Cardi’s transparency continues to inspire fans who see their own struggles reflected in hers. Her message is clear: fame doesn’t shield you from pain, but healing begins when you’re brave enough to talk about it.

The simmering feud between Nicki Minaj and Cardi B reignited this week on social media platform X, drawing their children into a very public confrontation. Years of tension resurfaced in the wake of Cardi B’s sophomore album, Am I The Drama?, released on September 19, capturing both fan attention and media scrutiny. Nicki Minaj initiated the exchange with a cryptic post that quickly prompted a sharp response from Cardi B. The dialogue escalated into personal attacks, targeting careers, relationships, and, notably, their children. In one pointed comment, Nicki referred to Cardi’s daughter Kulture as “ugly,” eliciting a forceful rebuttal. Cardi defended her child, stating, “Kulture is beautiful and you know that. Your hate runs so deep because your son is nonverbal due to circumstances you’ve created. You’re jealous of everyone’s happiness!” The confrontation intensified as Cardi added, “Forget that slow son that came from you! You wished negativity upon me during my pregnancy, and now look at your karmic retribution.” Fans and social media users watched closely, underscoring the public and personal stakes of their ongoing animosity. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Watch Live Bitez (@livebitez) Family and apology take center stage in the latest Nicki–Cardi clash Nicki’s mother, Carol Maraj, joined the online discourse to defend her daughter and grandson. “Papa is smart,” she tweeted. “He is just a bit shy, which is entirely normal for his age. All these claims are baseless.” Her remarks reinforced the family’s stance amid the flurry of online attention. While Nicki has not publicly addressed Cardi’s broader accusations, she issued an apology concerning her comments about Kulture. “Dear Kulture, the truth is I engaged in this for a greater purpose,” she wrote. “You are a beautiful child, and many kids go through phases before they fully develop. I truly apologize. As the Queen of my community, I recognize the integrity they expect from me, and you as a child deserve none of this.” This latest episode highlights the ongoing tension between the two rappers, a blend of personal grievance and public spectacle that continues to captivate fans, critics, and the broader music world alike.

In a move that bridges hip-hop legacy and modern innovation, 50 Cent announced plans to harness artificial intelligence to reimagine his unreleased catalog. The rapper broke the news on Instagram, unveiling “1960s soul” renditions of his most recognizable hits—each created with advanced AI production software that gives his music a new, vintage texture. His first experiment was a reworked version of “21 Questions,” transformed into a smoky, soul-infused track. “Now this sh*t is hot [fire]. I’ma use AI on all my unreleased songs and see what I got for ya!” he wrote, hinting at a broader creative shift. Soon after, he shared an equally lush reinterpretation of “God Gave Me Style,” adding, “This feels good [too], WTF going on now, this version lets you see my vision. It’s softer!” The post drew immediate reaction from fans—some applauding his forward-thinking approach, others wary of where technology might take artistry next. “This proves how great of a songwriter 50 is. Great writing works no matter the melody,” one fan commented. Another joked, “100 years from now they gon’ say this the original.” But not everyone was as amused: “If this is AI, I am scared man shjiiiit,” one skeptical user admitted. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 50 Cent (@50cent) 50 Cent Redefines Music in the Age of AI 50 Cent’s fascination with AI has been building for months. Earlier this year, an AI-generated version of “Many Men (Wish Death)” set to a 1960s-style arrangement went viral, drawing praise for its eerie realism. Podcast host Joe Rogan shared his surprise on air: “They took 50 Cent’s ‘Many Men’ and made it, like, a soulful song that seems like it’s from the ’50s or ’60s… It’s not even a real human being’s voice, and it’s f*cking good, dude. If that was a dude who sang that, I was like, who’s this guy, right? You know, I’m like, this guy is fire.” His experiment arrives at a time when AI is increasingly reshaping entertainment. Just this week, viral clips imagined 2Pac shopping at Target and Kobe Bryant playing NBA 2K, blurring the line between reality and simulation. As digital likenesses and machine-made art become more convincing, 50’s latest move underscores how artists are both testing and redefining what authenticity means in the age of AI.

BIA stopped by HOT 97 to catch up with Nessa in person for the first time since their last Zoom conversation during the pandemic. She talked about finally releasing her debut album Bianca, which drops this Friday, October 10, featuring 16 songs. Nessa asked BIA about the three words that describe where she’s at right now—intentional, unapologetic, and powerful—and what inspired her to open the album with “October.” They also discussed her singing on “Sad Party,” her long-teased R&BIA era, and how Bianca shows her as a well-rounded artist. BIA opened up about honoring Lauryn Hill on “One Thing,” her legacy, and even addresses a Stefon Diggs reference in “+44.” They didn’t shy away from the headlines either. BIA addressed her ongoing situation with Cardi B—what went through her mind when she first heard “Pretty & Petty,” her response on “Sue Me,” and whether or not she was using Cardi’s kids’ names in lyrics. She also shared whether she could ever get past the situation and how staying honest shaped her rollout. Nessa wrapped things up with a fun round of “Bianca or Bye,” putting BIA’s unfiltered takes on love, loyalty, and life to the test. Stream Bianca everywhere this Friday, October 10.

Drake took a quieter stage this week—the sidelines of his son Adonis’s elementary school soccer game. The chart-topping artist, whose name is synonymous with global hits and cultural influence, appeared in fatherly form. He was cheering from the stands as cameras captured a rare moment of domestic normalcy. The brief break from promoting his upcoming album, ICEMAN, offered fans a glimpse of a superstar grounded in something more personal. In a clip shared by No Jumper, Drake strolled across the schoolyard, instantly sparking excitement among students and parents. Ever the showman, he caught a basketball tossed from off-camera and drained a shot with ease. This delighted the onlookers. The moment—both spontaneous and charismatic—showed a softer side of an artist often framed through the lens of celebrity. View this post on Instagram A post shared by No Jumper (@nojumper) Fatherhood at the Core of Drake’s Story Fatherhood has become a defining thread in Drake’s story, one he’s rarely shied away from in his music or his public reflections. During a concert in Amsterdam last July, he told the audience, “This is a very special place in my heart. Because this is where my son was conceived.” It was a moment of candor that revealed how deeply his personal life continues to shape his artistry. Meanwhile, anticipation for ICEMAN continues to swell. The album, expected later this year, is said to feature collaborations with Central Cee, Julia Wolf, and Yeat. Early releases such as “Which One” and “Dog House” have already gained traction. Additionally, “What Did I Miss?” recently crossed 100 million Spotify streams—averaging more than half a million plays each day.

Pooh Shiesty, the Memphis rapper celebrated for his gritty lyrics and devoted following, has returned to the public eye after being granted early release from prison this week. In 2022, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges involving firearms, violent crimes, and drug trafficking. This conviction had kept him behind bars until this unexpected reprieve. Barely a day into his freedom, Pooh Shiesty made headlines once again by commenting “I love you” on a post from Cardi B. He was responding to a lively clip of Cardi performing her track “Check Please” from her album Am I The Drama? While the exchange was lighthearted, Cardi is currently in a committed relationship with New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs. Furthermore, the couple is expecting their first child. “I can confirm that yes, I am pregnant,” Cardi shared on CBS Mornings. “I’m having a baby with my boyfriend, Stefon Diggs. It’s been amazing juggling my career while nurturing this new life, and we are each other’s biggest supporters.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Watch Live Bitez (@livebitez) Fan Reactions Pooh Shiesty’s comment quickly circulated online, sparking lively fan discussion. Responses ranged from playful speculation that he might have had a chance if Cardi were single, to reminders of her loyalty and past relationships. One observer noted, “Right now, there’s no one wealthier than Stefon available in the scene.” This highlights the perceived challenge for any other suitors. Shiesty’s legal troubles trace back to a 2021 shooting incident in Bay Harbor Islands, Florida. Originally facing a sentence extending to April 2026, he recently secured early release and was transferred to a halfway house. In August, he shared a heartfelt post thanking those who supported him through his challenges. “Aye mane, that’s how you walk that lil t down,” he wrote. “Shoutout to all those who counted me down and not out; the love I felt during this roller-coaster ride was unmatched. To the good men I stood ground with, like Chris Brown, and the few rappers whose names carry weight in these walls, take my story as a testament to resilience. I’m back, richer and more alive than ever! IF YOU FEEL ME, K1LL ME! #TheBiggestGetBack.”