This past weekend, the Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City set the stage for the REFORM Alliance Casino Night and Gala, a glittering fundraiser for criminal justice reform. Co-hosted by Michael Rubin and Meek Mill, the evening drew a roster of influential names, including Jay-Z, and brought in $20 million for the cause. But what might have been remembered purely as a philanthropic success soon became the subject of another kind of scrutiny. Much of the conversation shifted from the money raised to the seating chart after reports suggested that Beyoncé and Jay-Z were placed near Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner. The possibility of the Carters sharing space with the Trump family quickly set off speculation and online debate. A seating chart sparks questions of politics and celebrity influence Posts on social media, particularly on X, circulated photos that seemed to show Beyoncé and Jay-Z apart from the main crowd. The lack of clarity only fueled more commentary. Some critics seized on the moment to question the couple’s political commitments, while others dismissed the uproar as exaggerated. “Guess the Kamala endorsement was just to get good PR,” one user wrote, capturing the skepticism running through parts of the conversation. Supporters, however, pointed to Beyoncé’s long track record of engagement. At a Kamala Harris rally in Houston last October, she appeared alongside Kelly Rowland and delivered a call to action: “It’s time for America to sing a new song. Are y’all ready to add your voice to the new American song?” For many, her presence at that rally, along with Jay-Z’s, signaled a commitment not easily undercut by a seating arrangement at a gala. The moment highlights the outsized weight celebrity appearances carry in political spaces. In an era when images are dissected in real time, even the placement of a table setting can be spun into a referendum on values and allegiances. Whether this controversy reveals anything lasting—or simply the churn of online discourse—remains an open question. Beyoncé, Jay-Z & Ivanka Trump last night in Atlantic City (Sept. 14th). pic.twitter.com/Zb3XbHD4x5 — ★ (@abenaissance) September 14, 2025

Jermaine Dupri is pushing back against the narrative that he “fumbled” his relationship with Janet Jackson. During a recent appearance on Hot 97 with Nessa, the longtime producer said the phrase simply doesn’t apply. He also offered insight into why he believes people often mischaracterize their breakup. Jermaine Dupri Challenges the “Fumble” Label When asked to respond to claims he lost out on his relationship with Jackson, Dupri paused. Then he said, “I don’t know what a fumble is. I be trying to figure out why y’all don’t say she fumbled me.” He went on, “I’m not something that you just let roll down the street.” Dupri emphasized they were together for eight years, and he said he’s tired of being cast as the one who messed up. Jackson and Dupri dated roughly from 2001 to 2009. Over the years, they publicly addressed sources of strain. Distance and work commitments played a big role. For instance, Jackson reportedly felt Dupri was often absent. In Jackson’s 2022 documentary, she said she had wanted to start a family with Dupri but pulled back after hearing rumors of his infidelity. Dupri acknowledged the rumors, admitting in past interviews that he was “reckless.” “Girls wanted to talk to me more because I was dating her,” he said, “and I was a man.” Jackson also described feeling that Dupri’s work took precedence. She said she often felt like his world was his work, and that he didn’t make enough time for her or their relationship demands. Dupri seems intent on reframing the public’s understanding of their split. He asked why people never ask whether Jackson “fumbled” him. He said the narrative is lopsided. He also pointed out how fans and social media have pushed the idea that he dropped the ball. He says that idea fails to reflect the complexities of the relationship. As of now, Dupri insists: it’s unfair to reduce their years together to a single mishap. “If the word ‘fumble’ is gonna be used,” he warned, “fans better remember it can go both ways.” Janet Jackson, in her documentary, raised concerns about Dupri’s infidelity and lack of availability affording their partnership. Dupri in turn has said he didn’t mean to hurt her but acknowledges his behaviors caused pain. Their story reflects challenges common in long-term relationships with fame, distance, and conflicting priorities.

A federal jury acquitted Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs of the most serious charges in his high-profile trial, though he still faces sentencing on a lesser prostitution-related conviction. The verdict marked a turning point in a case that has riveted both the music industry and legal community. At the same time, the government’s lead prosecutor, Maurene Comey, is contesting her abrupt removal from the case—alleging her dismissal was unlawful and politically motivated. Comey, the daughter of former FBI Director James B. Comey, ranks among the Justice Department’s most accomplished trial lawyers. Her attorneys contend that officials targeted her because of her father’s clashes with President Donald Trump. In a filing obtained by Billboard, her team wrote, “The politically motivated termination of Ms. Comey … upends bedrock principles of our democracy and justice system.” They maintained that federal prosecutors must be able to serve without partisan pressure. Her lawyers said Comey pressed Manhattan U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton for answers. However, his response offered little clarity. According to their account, Clayton told her the order “came from Washington” without further explanation. This remark has only intensified concerns about political interference in high-profile prosecutions, including that of Diddy. The Verdict The trial, which ran more than seven weeks, produced a mixed outcome. Diddy was acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges but convicted on two counts involving the transportation of individuals for prostitution. He is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on October 3. Comey’s career includes leading roles in significant prosecutions. Among them is the 2021 conviction of Ghislaine Maxwell on sex trafficking charges, which resulted in a 20-year sentence. Her removal from the Diddy case has stirred debate over whether political dynamics are shaping the Justice Department’s handling of prominent trials. As Diddy awaits sentencing, scrutiny now shifts toward the fallout from Comey’s firing. The controversy has widened the conversation beyond one defendant’s verdict. It raises sharper questions about prosecutorial independence and the resilience of the justice system under political strain, with Diddy’s case at the forefront.

Delta State University is mourning the loss of a student found dead while hanging from a tree on campus Monday morning in what officials say does not appear to involve foul play. A student was lynched today at Delta University in Mississippi. Black people, please be safe. pic.twitter.com/eiomiwMVPc — Dr. Allison Wiltz (@queenie4rmnola) September 15, 2025 The student was identified as 21-year-old Demartravion Reed, also known as Trey, of Grenada, Mississippi. University Police Chief Mike Peeler said officers discovered Reed’s body shortly after 7 a.m. on September 15. He was found hanging from a tree in the central part of campus near the pickleball courts. Reed’s body was turned over to the Bolivar County Coroner’s Office, which will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause of death. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and other local agencies are working alongside campus police in the investigation. Although details remain limited, Peeler stressed that there is no ongoing danger to the campus community. The university closed briefly after the discovery but did not enter lockdown. “I just want to confirm, this is a safe campus,” Peeler said. “Delta State University is a beautiful place to be. It’s just unfortunate this loss that comes heavily to our campus.” Student Found Dead At Delta State University University President Daniel Ennis addressed reporters later Monday, offering condolences to Reed’s family and describing the incident as a devastating moment for the Delta State community. He said the timing for resuming classes is still under review but pledged that operations would restart “as soon as possible.” Reed’s death has left many on campus reeling. Students and faculty remembered him as a young man with promise, and tributes began circulating online throughout the day. Counselors were made available for students, faculty, and staff grappling with grief. The tragedy has also renewed conversations about the importance of mental health resources on college campuses. Particularly at smaller institutions where access to support can be limited. As investigators await autopsy results, Delta State faces the challenge of honoring Reed’s memory while moving forward. For many on campus, the focus now is ensuring that every student feels supported and valued during a time of collective mourning.

Hip-hop veteran Papoose opens up about performing at the MTV Video Music Awards for the very first time, sharing what the moment meant for his career and for the culture. In this exclusive conversation, he reflects on the journey that brought him to that iconic stage, the energy of the night, and how it felt to represent not just himself, but hip-hop as a whole. Papoose also gets personal, crediting his girlfriend, boxing champion Claressa Shields for inspiring and improving his life in ways beyond music. From discipline and focus to motivation and personal growth, he explains how their connection has helped him elevate both mentally and physically. Tap in to hear Papoose break down history in the making, share gems about resilience, and speak on the powerful influence of Claressa Shields in his world.

Cardi B and her daughter, Kulture, 7, shut down a NYFW event, rocking matching fur pieces, TMZ reports. On Saturday (Sept.13), the outlet spotted the mother-daughter duo with their matching ensembles as they made their way to view Alexander Wang’s Spring 2026 Ready-to-Wear Fashion Show. Many other industry heavyweights were spotted at the show, like Martha Stewart, who shared a table with the pair. Cardi B has definitely cemented herself as one of rap’s top fashionistas, but judging by the comments on social media, Kulture almost stole the show. Kulture is the eldest daughter of the three children the “Bodak Yellow” rapper shares with her ex-husband, Offset. The former couple welcomed her into the world on July 10, 2018. View this post on Instagram A post shared by TMZ (@tmz_tv) Cardi B Defines Her Version Of Success According to Cardi B, winning a Grammy is the most “prestigious award” and that “nobody can take it” from her. In 2019, the Bronx native’s debut project, Invasion of Privacy, won Best Rap Album at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards. However, in a recent interview with Billboard, while the rapper expressed her happiness about receiving one, she emphasized that her definition of success has evolved. For the mother of three, “success” isn’t about awards and praise from critics, but “putting out good music.” “Winning a Grammy, the most prestigious award, you can never take that from me. Everybody wants to downplay it, but everybody wants one. [But] times have changed,” Cardi B tells the outlet. “Success for me will be people saying, ‘She put out a great album.’ If [at] 3 a.m., people are talking about the album, that’s going to be success for me because people can’t wait to downplay it. I even want the people who don’t like me to be like, ‘Yo. That sht is fire.’ Yeah, eat your fcking fruits, n*gga.”

Lizzo has been very open about her health journey over the years; now she’s trying to help some of her peers, like BigXthaPlug, get on the same track. The pair linked up for a grocery shopping trip at Walmart while on a Twitch livestream—not long after they found themselves in a light-hearted debate about their soda preferences. In Lizzo’s opinion, when it comes to healthy soda options, she thinks Coke Zero is best. “We got to get some Coke Zeros,” she says as they walk down the soda aisle. However, the “Whip It” hitmaker didn’t see it that way. “Coke Zero is crazy. You might as well not even drink soda. It’s zero.” Lizzo went on stream with BigXThePlug to help put him on a diet and he got upset when she tried making him drink Coke ZERO pic.twitter.com/ndD6PEY9wn — ryan (@scubaryan_) September 12, 2025 Lizzo asked the rapper if he would prefer water, possibly thinking he wasn’t a fan of carbonated beverages, but that was not the case: “I mean, I drink soda,” BigXthaPlug clarified. It seems that he just doesn’t understand the point of drinking sugar-free soda products like Coke Zero. “So you’ll drink a full-fat Coke? Oh no no no,” the “Special” singer responded. As the hilarious debate slightly heated up, Lizzo shared that her favorite flavor of Coke Zero was vanilla. The rapper quipped back, saying, “You might as well drink a regular vanilla Coke,” bringing the soda showdown to an end. Lizzo also shared a clip of the two doing a fire dance routine to BigX’s 2024 hit “The Largest,” on Instagram, writing in the caption: “We the BIGGEST in the game! @bigxthaplug.” Funny debate aside, Lizzo’s soda choices shouldn’t be a surprise; the rapper-singer has shared her ever-evolving health journey since launching into the mainstream. In July, she sat down with Women’s Health to discuss her weight loss, body positivity, and her ongoing health journey. Lizzo revealed to the outlet that finding healthy eating patterns had always been a “challenge” for her. She shared that she suffered from disordered eating, specifically, binge eating. “There were times when I would eat so much that my stomach hurt. When I was done, I would be so uncomfortable, I couldn’t breathe and wouldn’t let anyone know,” she says. According to Lizzo, she had “so much food noise and connected so much emotion to food.”

Former MTV Teen Mom star Jenelle Evans is opening up about her brief fling with Lil Wayne, and their first encounter after the rapper flew her out to meet. Last week, Evans shared in a livestream that she and the New Orleans native DM’ed her on Instagram, which eventually led to the pair moving to text. However, the reality star didn’t really give any clear indication of when this took place. Later on in the live, she claimed that Wayne offered to fly her out personally, to which she agreed. However, it didn’t take long for the topic of hooking up to come up, over dinner, Evans alleges. The mother of three declined, saying, “I just said I wanted to go out to dinner and get to know each other first. He just wanted to jump into it, I guess you could say.” Shortly thereafter, the rapper flew Evans back home. She makes it clear she wasn’t “butt hurt” because she “knew what she was going there for.” @jenellelevans #stitch with @Reality TV & ADHD yes, it’s true ♬ original sound – Jenelle Evans She added, “I knew that eventually that conversation would come up with him. I’m just not that type of person to give in to anybody.” Evans’ story quickly started to circulate on social media, with some questioning the reality TV personality’s decision to even meet up with the “Lollipop” rapper in the first place. In response, Evans shared a video on TikTok offering clarification on the situation. “This seriously did happen. I’m not gonna say too much about the situation, because he didn’t have me sign an NDA, and at first, I didn’t believe it was him until he FaceTimed me.” She recalled Wayne being “really respectful,” but when it came to hitting the sheets, she’s “more of a person who wants to connect on a deeper level,” and states she wasn’t just looking for a hookup. Overall, Evans referred to the encounter as a “cool experience,” and she was happy to have met the rapper, despite having to leave her phone in the hotel during their hangout. That said, upon her return, her items had been “safe” and tucked away. “No hard feelings between me and him, and it was a crazy story,” she concluded.

The Shade Room recently shared a video of NBA player Jalen Green and his partner, reality star Draya Michele, who were spotted in a heated dispute. According to the outlet, the incident happened after the pair had left a New York Fashion Week party. In the video, Green can be overheard referring to Michele as a “b*tch,” before later screaming at the top of his lungs that he “hates her.” Michele can be seen running toward and attempting to lunge at Green several times before being stopped by someone from the pair’s crew. Another person was also spotted trying to hold the six-foot-four Phoenix Suns shooting guard back from the former Basketball Wives star. Being that there is no footage of what happened prior, it’s unclear what prompted the heated situation. The Shade Room reports the confrontation between the two would continue for several minutes as the group walked through the streets of New York. Jalen Green Shouts “I Hate You” At Draya Michele During Late-Night Confrontation In NY (: Shutterstock) : #TSRStaffLG pic.twitter.com/hp89oV4cna — TheShadeRoom (@TheShadeRoom) September 13, 2025 The pair went public with their relationship in 2023, despite heavy criticism for their 17-year age gap; Green, who was 23 at the time, and Michele, 40. A year later, in May, the two welcomed a daughter, Lyght. My daughter was safely brought into this world, and I’m forever grateful for the new memories we all get to experience moving forward. [Silver heart emoji] Love + Light everyone,” she wrote in an Instagram post around that time. Back in July, Draya clapped back at one critic, a TikToker named Boujeebrownskin, who stated that Green and she have more of a “mother/son” dynamic than a romantic one. The social media personality was reacting to an appearance the two made on Whistle’s “Home Team” relationship quiz. Michele caught wind of the video and shared her sentiments: “One more thing … this is AGEIST !! No different from being homophobic — you can’t be woke about one thing, babe, and not the other. Discrimination is discrimination. Imagine if somebody told you couldn’t love who you wanted to because they felt like it was ‘wrong.’”

Drake has never hidden where his artistic instincts lead him: toward women and toward the nightlife spaces where their energy sets the tone. That perspective anchors Magic City: An American Fantasy, a new docuseries he both produced and appears in. The project explores the cultural weight of Atlanta’s storied strip club while offering Drake a platform to explain how it shaped his sound and sensibility. In the series, he casts his music as less an abstraction than a tribute. “I make my music for those girls,” he says, underscoring his devotion to the women who bring those spaces to life. For him, strip clubs are not just backdrops but creative engines—environments that fueled some of his most enduring songs. His choice to embrace that influence, despite predictable judgments, reflects both intent and self-assurance. That confidence extends to his public image. When pressed about his romantic life, Drake shrugged off the fascination with a laugh, a gesture that conveys ease rather than evasion. His response signals not secrecy but a determination to define the narrative on his own terms. Confronting the Critics Drake has been equally blunt about how his music is received. In a recent exchange with Bobbi Althoff, he argued that reviews of his albums often feel orchestrated. “When I’m dropping an album, they have phone calls deciding what stance so-and-so is gonna take within the first hour,” he said, suggesting that criticism can be prearranged rather than rooted in genuine listening. The remark speaks to a larger reality: in today’s music economy, pushback can be as engineered as acclaim, designed to generate clicks as much as critique. For Drake, that only sharpens his focus on the listeners he has always prioritized. Conclusion Through Magic City, Drake presents himself not just as a hitmaker but as a chronicler of the spaces and communities that shaped him. His blend of defiance and devotion—toward women, nightlife, and authenticity—remains central to his longevity in a culture quick to question and quicker to judge. Drake speaks on making music for women and not caring about what another artist has to say: “I care so little about another artist that someone might respect not liking my music. I don’t give a fuck. Maybe that’s why I’ve been here so long” pic.twitter.com/1y4jlCLsAb — ALMIGHTEE. (@realalmightee) September 12, 2025