What began as relaxed banter on the Joe & Jada Podcast took a sharper turn when French Montana steered the conversation toward unresolved business from his past. Appearing alongside Max B to promote Coke Wave 3.5, French used the moment to revisit a lingering dispute tied to one of his biggest records. The pivot was calm but deliberate, shifting the mood from jokes to something more revealing. Fat Joe and Jadakiss, both longtime fixtures of New York rap, let the exchange breathe. The tension surfaced when French brought up the publishing breakdown behind “All The Way Up,” the 2016 anthem that reshaped both artists’ commercial profiles. He suggested his share of the publishing royalties did not reflect the song’s success or his contribution. Joe seemed genuinely surprised, pausing as both men searched their memories for how the deal was structured at the time. Years later, the details proved slippery. French maintained that the numbers never sat right with him, while Joe insisted the agreement had been fair within the norms of the industry. The disagreement never boiled over, but it revealed how financial arrangements can linger long after the applause fades. Neither artist reached for contracts or paperwork; instead, the debate rested on recollection and perspective. It was a familiar dynamic for artists who came up fast and learned business on the fly. Laughs, Ledgers, and Lingering Tension Beneath the Punchlines The moment stayed light, thanks in part to humor. “I had zero publishing on that song,” French said, half-joking as he made his point. When Joe countered that French received a 10 percent cut, French quickly responded, “No, it was 5.” The exchange drew laughter, even as it hinted at real frustration beneath the surface. Jadakiss and Max B soon joined in, turning the conversation into an impromptu breakdown of music publishing math. Clips from the episode spread quickly online, sparking debate among fans over who was right—and plenty of jokes about the music industry’s notorious bookkeeping. What started as a routine promo stop ended as a public reminder that hit records can come with unfinished conversations.

A renewed creative pulse is running through the West household, where music has once again become a shared and evolving project. North West is steadily carving out space as a young artist with her own instincts, while Kanye West moves closer to the release of his forthcoming album, BULLY. Clips and previews circulating online have fueled conversation across hip-hop circles, offering brief but telling glimpses into what both are building. The moment feels less like a passing curiosity and more like an active chapter in a larger family narrative. Legacy and emergence are unfolding side by side. North’s presence has already been felt on recent Kanye releases, but her voice is becoming clearer beyond those appearances. She recently shared a preview of a track titled “Piercing On My Hand” on her Instagram Story, featuring production from Kanye. The version he crafted takes a restrained approach, leaning on strings and open space rather than percussion. By contrast, North’s original cut carries sharper edges and a more confrontational energy. The split reveals two creative perspectives branching from the same idea. Her reach is no longer limited to collaborations at home. North recently produced a track for Lil Novi, the son of Lil Wayne, linking two prominent hip-hop bloodlines through sound rather than symbolism. The pairing reflects a growing movement among younger artists who gravitate toward the high-intensity “rage” style. That direction diverges from where many of their parents currently land musically. Still, it suggests that influence within hip-hop families may now be flowing upward as much as it does down. Anticipating Kanye West’s BULLY Kanye West is expected to release BULLY on January 30, following a rollout shaped by delays and debate over the use of artificial intelligence in music. With a confirmed tracklist and physical pre-orders now available, the project appears firmly back on track. Fans have taken those signals as reassurance after months of uncertainty. Interest has only intensified as North’s recent musical activity continues to draw attention. Many are watching closely to see whether her work appears on the final album. It remains unclear whether North’s recent previews will translate into official releases or remain snapshots of her creative process. At just 12 years old, she has already shown a strong sense of tone and control, with room to grow into something far more expansive. Her development is unfolding alongside a father known for constant reinvention. As BULLY approaches, the West family’s creative orbit feels wider, more fluid, and increasingly intertwined.

French Montana used a recent interview to quiet lingering speculation about his relationship with Drake, offering clarity without theatrics. Sitting alongside Max B, the Bronx rapper spoke with ease. This signaled that whatever narratives have circulated online do not reflect reality. At a time when hip-hop discourse is hyper-attuned to perceived slights, French framed the moment as far simpler than fans might assume. There was no edge in his delivery, only familiarity. The conversation unfolded against the backdrop of Drake’s highly publicized tensions elsewhere in rap, particularly his standoff with Kendrick Lamar. Within that larger context, an old industry story has resurfaced involving a reported cease-and-desist tied to a Drake feature meant for French. That episode has often been linked to Drake’s fallout with Rick Ross. However, French suggested it never carried personal weight for him. He appeared intent on separating rumor from lived experience. Pressed about where he currently stands with Drake, French answered plainly. “That’s my guy.” The response drew visible excitement from Envy, who hinted at an unreleased song that includes Drake. Max B quickly leaned into the moment, adding, “I would love to hear me and Drake too on a record,” a comment that drew knowing smiles from across the table. French Montana Dismisses Feud, Hints at Drake-Max B Collab French was then questioned on why talk of a feud between the “Splash Brothers” and “Sniper Gang” ever gained traction. French dismissed the idea, noting he has never engaged in public back-and-forths. The tone stayed light when Envy jokingly asked how he could get the Drake record himself. French laughed before replying, “Maybe I’ll tell Drake, ‘Let’s give that to Max.’ ‘Cause it is a New York record.” Even as an offhand remark, the idea of a collaboration involving Drake, Max B, and French Montana was enough to spark interest online. Each artist brings a distinct lineage and audience. This makes the possibility feel culturally significant rather than merely nostalgic. Whether anything materializes remains to be seen. Still, the chemistry implied in the room did not go unnoticed. As for the long-rumored cease-and-desist, there appears to be some factual basis. Gamma CEO Larry Jackson has acknowledged the situation, characterizing it as more playful than contentious. By his account, the exchange never rose to the level of a serious dispute. In hindsight, it reads less like a rift and more like a brief industry moment. It took on a life of its own.

Turk, a founding member of the Hot Boys, is embroiled in a contentious legal battle after asserting that he was unfairly removed from the Cash Money 30th Anniversary Tour. Promoters, however, maintain that his conduct endangered the integrity and safety of the event. The dispute, which builds on longstanding tensions between Turk, the label, and other members of the Hot Boys, is now moving toward a court-mandated settlement. This settlement could determine the future of the tour and the parties involved. According to AllHipHop, the conflict between Turk and Dope Shows Inc., the tour’s promoters, has gained widespread attention as legal ramifications mount. A settlement conference, scheduled for February 17, represents a standard federal procedure. It is intended to encourage resolution before the matter escalates to trial. Despite the public tension, this step suggests both sides are exploring the possibility of compromise to avoid protracted litigation. The Heart of the Dispute Turk contends that his removal from the tour was imposed by the promoters rather than a voluntary decision. In response, Dope Shows Inc. filed a $12 million lawsuit, alleging Turk engaged in threats and defamatory actions that compromised both the tour and its security. Concurrently, Turk filed his own suit in Florida seeking $340,000 in unpaid compensation. He argues that the promoters used security concerns as a pretext to withhold payment. Complicating matters further are Turk’s highly publicized conflicts with B.G., another key Hot Boys member. Promoters claim these incidents contributed to B.G.’s removal after his probation officer intervened. They note that B.G. generates significantly higher revenue than Turk. Additionally, Dope Shows alleges that unauthorized disclosures about the tour’s finances have further strained the relationship. This development is deepening an already intricate legal battle. As both parties approach the settlement talks, the prospect of a lengthy courtroom confrontation remains if an agreement is not reached. The outcome will have far-reaching implications for the careers and reputations of everyone involved. This emphasizes how quickly disputes in the music industry can escalate. Ultimately, the resolution of this conflict will test whether negotiation can prevail over confrontation. It will offer Turk and the Cash Money legacy a path forward from this turbulent chapter.

Before 50 Cent became a Hip-Hop legend, he made a decision that could’ve easily ended his career, but instead, it launched him into rap immortality. HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 30: Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson (L) and Eminem (R) attend a ceremony honoring Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on January 30, 2020 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Albert L. Ortega/Getty Images) On Wednesday (Jan. 14), 50 took to X to share a resurfaced video, where he revealed he once turned down a massive $1.3 million deal with Universal Music Group (UMG). At the time, the G-Unit general was deeply entangled in a public beef with Murder Inc., led by its founder the late Irv Gotti and its star, Ja Rule. Murder Inc. was also apart of the Def Jam/UMG umbrella. According to the clip, Irv was intentionally working behind the scenes to block 50 Cent’s come up. Fig did not let his destiny sit in his enemy’s hands. Despite being broke, he walked away from $1.3 million. “Yayo did not understand why I wouldn’t do a deal with universal they offered me 1.3 mill and we was broke. I said No yall can keep that. Now you see why I love Eminem so much, if he ran your kid over with a car. I’d say No he didn’t! LOL.” Yayo did not understand why I wouldn’t do a deal with universal they offered me 1.3 mill and we was broke.I said No yall can keep that. Now you see why I love Eminem so much, if he ran your kid over with a car I’d say No he didn’t! LOL • https://t.co/WtNREs32V0 pic.twitter.com/6o7GhwJbT7 — 50cent (@50cent) January 14, 2026 With a bold decision to turn down the money, he would eventually run into Eminem. Slim Shady would introduce him to Dr. Dre and the rest is history. This trio birth one of Hip-Hop’s greatest runs, as well as the best selling album of 2003 in Get Rich or Die Tryin’. Throughout the years, Eminem and 50 Cent have collaborated on a number of tracks, including “Patiently Waiting,” “Psycho,” “Crack a Bottle” and more.

Jay-Z has once more emerged on the winning side of a legal fight that has followed him for years. A court has dismissed claims brought by Rymir Satterthwaite and his legal guardian, Lillie Coley, ending the latest attempt to revive allegations that the hip-hop mogul is Satterthwaite’s biological father. The case, which has circulated through multiple jurisdictions, has drawn attention not only for its claims but also for its persistence. This ruling continues a clear pattern of judicial outcomes favoring Jay-Z. Satterthwaite has repeatedly sought court intervention to compel DNA testing, framing his pursuit as a search for closure rather than money. In a 2024 statement, he said, “I truly wish to bring this issue to a close. My priority is not financial gain; I am simply seeking the truth.” Despite that sentiment, he abruptly withdrew his lawsuit in July, offering little explanation for the move. Even so, he made clear his resolve remained unchanged, adding, “Although I have retracted my legal action, the fight is far from over.” The dispute widened when Lillie Coley, who has served as Satterthwaite’s caretaker and godmother, filed her own lawsuit against Jay-Z. She accused him of avoiding DNA testing and parental responsibility while using his influence to shield himself from accountability. Coley also alleged misconduct by the New Jersey Attorney General, claiming misrepresentations harmed her federal case and contributed to severe financial strain. The court found no legal basis to advance those claims. Coley’s Suit Dismissed, $119K in Fees Ordered In a decisive ruling, the judge dismissed Coley’s lawsuit with prejudice, closing the door on any amended filing. The decision stated, “The Court has carefully examined the Motion and determined it is suitable for adjudication without oral argument. The Motion is GRANTED, and the Complaint is DISMISSED without leave to amend.” The language left little ambiguity about the court’s position. The fallout included financial consequences. According to AllHipHop, Coley has been ordered to pay roughly $119,235.45 in legal fees under California’s anti-SLAPP statute, which is designed to protect defendants from baseless or retaliatory lawsuits. Jay-Z’s attorneys have long characterized the litigation as a “prolonged harassment campaign,” a description echoed in earlier filings. One dismissal motion from July 2025 stated, “The fabricated allegations have been systematically addressed and rejected in multiple jurisdictions. The plaintiff’s persistent harassment of the defendant and blatant disregard for court orders have already subjected him to a contempt order.” The case illustrates the complications that arise when deeply personal claims intersect with celebrity, media attention, and the legal system. While the allegations have resurfaced in various forms over the years, the courts have remained consistent in their rulings. With this latest dismissal, the legal avenues available to the plaintiffs appear increasingly limited.

Erica Mena shared a vulnerable update amid her legal battle with her ex-husband, Safaree Samuels. The Love and Hip Hop couple, who tied the knot in October 2019, have had a tumultuous public relationship following the birth of their two children in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Safaree mentioned a shift in Erica after welcoming their kids even tweeting that getting married was a mistake. Erica filed for divorce on May 24, 2021, referring to their marriage as “irretrievably broken” with “no hope of reconciliation” in court documents obtained, per PageSix. Since the filing, Erica alleges that she has experienced financial strain from carrying the full weight of parenting their two children. However, in a recent post, the reality star shared an update that suggests that financial burden has been lifted. View this post on Instagram “Asking for half is not asking for too much.” She began, “For 2½ years and counting – I’ve endured malicious filings, unnecessary legal attacks and intentional financial pressure, all while being the only consistent present parent for my two youngest children. The only one handling medical care, education, childcare and the everyday costs of raising two growing children, as I have since the day they were born.” “Yesterday wasn’t about revenge,” Erica continued. “It was about receipts, facts and accountability.” In the caption, she suggests that Safaree’s alleged lack of financial help has been an intentional attack. “After years of intentional hardship and financial burden placed on me, I finally stood up for the expenses I’ve carried alone medical, childcare, education. While parenting full-time and filling in where effort, presence and responsibility are by choice repeatedly consistently absent,” she wrote. Adding, “Asking for half is not asking for too much.” In the lengthy caption, Erica also praised the attorney, Lisa Weber, writing that “she stood firm on principle and led this case with integrity, precision and moral clarity.” She concluded the statement writing, “I’ve been choosing peace — but I will NEVER choose silence when it comes to my children.” Fans dropped in the comments of the Instagram post supporting the model on her victory and praising her for advocating for herself and children. TMZ reports that the couple’s divorce was finalized September 12, 2022, with Safaree being ordered to pay $4,305 per month in child support. View this post on Instagram

New York rapper Kay Flock was sentenced to 30 years in prison in mid-December following multiple convictions linked to four shootings that occurred between 2020 and 2021. At 22 years old, Flock now faces a future dominated by incarceration. This has prompted his legal team to file an appeal. The case has drawn attention not only for the severity of the sentence. Additionally, people are discussing its implications in prosecuting gang-related activity in the city. The sentencing also includes five years of supervised release after Flock completes his prison term. Michael T. Ashley, Flock’s attorney, said the appeal was expected. Court filings indicate that Ashley is seeking either a reduction to the statutory minimum of 10 years. Alternatively, he suggests an alternative “structured punishment plan” spanning several years. Under the alternative plan, Flock would be required to relocate to Los Angeles, earn his GED, maintain sobriety, and publicly renounce violence on social media. While outlined in legal motions, the likelihood of such leniency appears low. This is due to the prosecution’s firm stance throughout the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael R. Herman, representing the government, had initially advocated for a 50-year sentence. He cited the seriousness of the crimes and their impact on victims and the community. Furthermore, the prosecution argued that a significant sentence was necessary to uphold public safety. They said it would deter further violence and address the broader consequences of gang-related actions. COURTHOUSE RAP: After Drill Rapper Kay Flock Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison He Appeals Pro Se – Book: https://t.co/db1k47Qrgz Inner City Press story: https://t.co/4cOWKH02Ti pic.twitter.com/eVbxiM8muP — Inner City Press (@innercitypress) January 14, 2026 Examining the Convictions Flock’s convictions include racketeering conspiracy and use of a firearm causing death. He is also convicted of attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon connected to racketeering. Authorities contend that these acts were part of an orchestrated effort to expand the influence of the Sev Side/DOA gang. Notably, Flock is identified as a prominent member of this gang. During sentencing, U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman noted that Flock was not the shooter in the incidents.

French Montana just proved that shooting your shot can really take you to royalty. NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 22: French Montana and Sheikha Mahra are seen on November 22, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage) Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage How It Went Down During a recent appearance on the Joe & Jada Podcast alongside Max B, the Bronx rapper spilled the tea on how he landed his now-fiancée, Dubai Princess Sheikha Mahra. According to French, it went down in the DMs. While visiting Dubai, he noticed Mahra had gone viral after publicly announcing her divorce from Emirati businessman and royal Sheikh Mana in a bold Instagram post. In it, she accused her ex of infidelity and stated that their marriage over. “Dear Husband, as you are occupied with other companions, I hereby declare our divorce,” she wrote in a viral post. “I divorce you, I divorce you, and I Divorce You. Take Care. Your ex-wife.” French said the post immediately caught his attention. “I remember I had seen she put up that post where she divorced somebody,” Montana told Jadakiss and Fat Joe. “And I’m like, ‘I like her.’ ‘Cause it takes a lot of guts to throw that up. So when she threw that up, I’m like, ‘I like her.’” View this post on Instagram From there, French had a mutual connection reach out, and they gave the green light with a simple, “Do what you gotta do.” And the rest is history. Shortly after her divorce announcement last year, Mahra was spotted giving French a personal tour of Dubai, sparking early rumors that turned out to be real. The couple later announced their engagement. The couple has kept their relationship very low-key outside of Mahra celebrating French’s 41st birthday at Aya Nightclub in NYC. Max B and Central Cee joined the couple as well. Montana was previously married to entrepreneur, NaDeen Kharbouch from 2007 to 2014. They share one 16-year-old son, Kruz Kharbouch.

Julio Iglesias, the internationally known singer whose career has spanned decades, is facing serious legal allegations. These allegations arose after two former domestic employees accused him of sexual assault and human trafficking. The complaint was submitted earlier this month to Spain’s National Court Prosecutor’s Office. This is according to a January 13 statement from Women’s Link Worldwide, a global human rights organization. The case has ignited renewed debate about power, accountability, and the vulnerability of domestic workers employed by wealthy public figures. The allegations stem from events said to have occurred in 2021 at Iglesias’ private residences in the Dominican Republic and the Bahamas. According to the filing, the women describe conditions involving coercion, forced labor, and repeated violations of sexual autonomy. Moreover, the complaint also details allegations of sexual harassment during their employment. It paints a picture of prolonged control exercised behind closed doors. The two accusers, identified as Laura and Rebeca to protect their identities, say they endured intimidation and psychological pressure while working in Iglesias’ homes. Laura said she chose to come forward to prevent similar harm to others. She explained, “My goal is to ensure that no woman ever endures this kind of abuse from him again.” She added that survivors should not be made to carry shame for speaking publicly about their experiences. View this post on Instagram A call for accountability and equal justice Rebeca framed her decision in terms of accountability rather than retaliation. “I am doing this to get justice,” she said. She stressed that wealth or celebrity should not place anyone beyond legal consequence. Her statement reflects a broader call for equal treatment under the law, regardless of status. Women’s Link Worldwide said the accusations should be examined within a wider pattern of labor exploitation that disproportionately affects domestic workers. The organization’s executive director, Jovana Ríos Cisneros, described the claims as evidence of “systemic structures of oppression and abuse.” She added that sexual violence often intersects with economic inequality and social marginalization. Ana Rebollar, deputy director of Amnesty International Spain, echoed those concerns, calling violence against domestic workers a persistent human rights issue. She warned that existing protections remain insufficient, leaving workers exposed to abuse in private households. Meanwhile, Iglesias has not publicly addressed the allegations, and requests for comment from his representatives have reportedly gone unanswered.