In a rich display of community, ambition and opportunity, Riverside Hawks marked its 65th Annual Gala in style, joining forces with Earn Your Leisure (EYL) to honour the intersections of education, finance and sport. The event, held on October 29 at The Grill & Pool in New York City, drew leaders, alumni, and supporters for an evening grounded in impact. Founded in 1961 within the historic Harlem community, Riverside Hawks has grown into an elite youth-athletics and academic development organization, using basketball not just as a sport, but as a launchpad for life skills, academic achievement and leadership. This year’s gala theme, “The Power of the Game”, underscored how athletic discipline, teamwork and strategic thinking built on the court translate into the classroom, career and community. Riverside hawks sends a thank you: “Thank you to everyone who joined us for an inspiring evening at our Riverside Hawks Annual Gala..” read a Riverside’s Instagram caption following the event. “We’re deeply grateful to our honorees, guests, and partners whose generosity continues to drive our mission forward — using the Power of the Game to create opportunity and impact for our student-athletes.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Riverside Hawks (@riversidehawksnyc) Amongst the honorees were, Erika Irish Brown, Head of Talent Management & Engagement at Citi, Earn Your Leisure co-founders Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings, and Jose Minaya, Global Head of BNY Investments & Wealth. Troy Millings On bring awareness: When speaking to HOT 97, Troy Millings says this event was important, “to bring awareness to Riverside Church which has probably been around for 40 years. Young kids all the way from the age of 6-18..teaching them about life, life skills. Taking them around the world, helping kids get scholarships. So, whenever you support that, it’s important.” The gala brought together alumni, families, donors, and community partners in celebration and purpose. The funds raised support Riverside Hawks’ extensive programming: from tutoring, mentoring and college guidance to elite basketball competition and leadership training across NYC’s Harlem, Washington Heights and Bronx regions. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zach Kuba (@coachkuba)

Burna Boy’s 30-minute or so cameo on a live stream with PlaqueBoyMax has reignited talk that his long-running tension with fellow Nigerian star Davido is still very much alive. In the clip, Max receives a ten-subscription gift from a user named “dwmdavido.” When Burna notices it, he gives a subtle laugh and says, “Nah, nah, man.” While the line may seem offhand to some, fans see it as symbolic of a rivalry that’s been simmering for years. The two artists, once collaborators (their 2011 cut “Trumpet” and a 2016 remix), haven’t publicly worked together since their relationship soured around 2019. Burna’s body language during the livestream, arching eyebrows, a quick glance, suggested he neither missed the reference nor the intent behind it. View this post on Instagram A post shared by DJ Akademiks (@akademiks) It’s worth noting that both men are at high points in their careers. Burna’s global presence has exploded, and Davido, whose album 5 Ive dropped earlier this year, continues to dominate charts in Africa and beyond. Yet the behind-the-scenes undercurrent of ego, competition and respect remains. For fans, the gift from “dwmdavido” was less about money and more about visibility. Burna’s response may have been intentionally minimal, but the message landed. Whether Davido will issue a formal reply or bury the moment remains unclear. But in an era of subtle jabs and viral moments, this livestream exchange might speak louder than any official statement. The power lies not in the shout but the implication, and for now both camps seem content to let the scoreboard build.

Offset’s new project, Haunted by Fame, arrives steeped in tension and vulnerability. This signals a sharp turn from the calm introspection of his previous album, Kiari. Once vowing to “move on in peace,” the Atlanta rapper now revisits familiar wounds—most notably his complicated history with Cardi B. Released as Halloween season hits its peak, the project feels as eerie as it does emotional. When Kiari dropped earlier this year, its closing track, “Move On,” read like a farewell to heartbreak. Offset’s lyrics—“I’m tryna move on in peace / I’m tryna move on / Happy for you, why you ain’t happy for me?”—offered a quiet resolution to one of hip-hop’s most public love stories. Their marriage, marred by divorce filings and online disputes, had seemed to reach its end with that moment of lyrical surrender. Yet Haunted by Fame suggests that peace was short-lived. Offset seemingly addresses Cardi B on his new album, ‘HAUNTED BY FAME’ “You a fool if you think that I’m hurt, you ain’t happy I know how it work. How you married and still giving birth? Get some help b*tch, you goin’ berserk.” — Offset on “NO SWEAT” pic.twitter.com/6Vs7OMefmp — Kurrco (@Kurrco) October 31, 2025 Offset turns heartbreak into lyrical revenge On the new project, Offset returns to his sharper instincts. The song “No Sweat” finds him taking aim at Cardi B’s current partner, NFL star Stefon Diggs. Diggs is reportedly expecting a fourth child with the rapper. “How the f*ck you leave Jordan for Rodman?” he raps—a biting line that cuts through the album’s gloom. The contrast between Kiari’s remorse and Haunted by Fame’s resentment is striking. This underscores a shift from reflection to retaliation. Fans have been quick to respond. Some on X mocked Offset’s fixation on his ex, with one post reading that he should “just sign the divorce papers already.” Others noted the irony of his recent interviews, where he expressed remorse for his past behavior toward Cardi. The public discourse mirrors the duality in his music: one side seeking growth, the other unwilling to let go. Released just months after Kiari, Haunted by Fame feels less like a sequel and more like a reckoning. It also lands on the anniversary of Without Warning, Offset’s 2017 collaboration with 21 Savage and Metro Boomin. That was a defining moment for trap music. This time, however, the haunting doesn’t come from 808s or ad-libs, but from the ghosts of fame, love, and the cost of living both in public.

In 2025, Mass Appeal’s dedication to preserving Big L’s influence has resonated deeply with the hip-hop community. While minor critiques have appeared, the overall response from fans has been overwhelmingly positive. This year has been notable for Nas and Mass Appeal, with several highly anticipated projects on the horizon, including collaborations with DJ Premier and De La Soul. Yet it is Harlem’s Finest: Return Of The King that has captured the most attention, bringing previously underappreciated tracks from Big L’s catalog into the spotlight. The compilation features 16 tracks that, while previously overlooked, now receive a full showcase. Designed for streaming access and fair compensation for all contributors, the album transcends any suggestion of a simple cash grab. Production, blending moody yet uplifting tones from Beat Butcha, Conductor Williams, and executive producer Royce da 5’9”, evokes the energy of 90s New York rap, reminding listeners why Big L’s artistry remains essential to the genre. Big L’s Legacy Shines in 2025 Release Online reactions have been enthusiastic. One fan shared, “Have you had a chance to listen to the new Big L album? Really incredible to have this drop in 2025!” Another expressed excitement about the unexpected collaborations, including Mac Miller and Jay-Z. While some listeners questioned whether Miller’s style aligned with Big L’s aesthetic, Miller’s acknowledgment of Big L as a formative influence lends meaningful context to the partnership. Some fans noted the brevity of certain tracks, but the constraints reflect the challenge of curating work from a career cut tragically short. Unlike posthumous releases for more recent artists like Juice WRLD, the team behind Harlem’s Finest faced the task of honoring an enduring legacy while maintaining artistic integrity. Despite these challenges, the album succeeds as a celebration of Big L’s talent, offering both nostalgia and discovery for listeners. The discussion around Harlem’s Finest illustrates the continued impact of Big L’s work. His contributions remain a touchstone for the hip-hop community, inspiring fans and emerging artists alike. This posthumous release not only preserves his voice but also reinforces his lasting significance in shaping the sound and spirit of New York rap.

The ongoing saga between Kanye West and Playboi Carti has captivated the hip-hop world since it began earlier this year. The dispute reportedly started after Kanye felt sidelined by his inclusion—or lack thereof—on Carti’s album MUSIC. What began as simmering tension has flared repeatedly, revealing the complex dynamics of their creative and personal relationship. At the core of the conflict is Kanye’s frustration over being excluded from MUSIC, which debuted at number one with nearly 300,000 copies sold in its first week. Feeling betrayed, he publicly called Carti a “traitor” and a “blue pill” agent, accusing him of abandoning the principles that once defined his artistry. In an interview with DJ Akademiks, Kanye expanded on the metaphor, likening Carti to an agent from The Matrix, suggesting his former collaborator had switched sides in hip-hop’s evolving landscape. The clash has drawn in figures beyond the studio, including Kim Kardashian and Iggy Azalea, highlighting the broad cultural impact of their feud. Carti’s social media response, urging Kanye to “STFU,” demonstrated his irritation with the public scrutiny surrounding their ongoing drama. Playboi Carti showed love to Ye in Chicago tonight “Yo Kanye, I love you” pic.twitter.com/QbMNogDjzR — Kurrco (@Kurrco) October 31, 2025 Carti-Kanye Tensions Ease Amid Legal Troubles In July, tensions escalated over a track featuring NBA YoungBoy, titled “Alive.” Carti claimed ownership, noting that it incorporated elements from his song CRANK, sparking further confrontation. Despite these clashes, a lull in hostilities offered fans a hint that the feud might eventually cool. Recent developments suggest a possible thaw. During a performance in Chicago, Carti praised Kanye, saying he “loves” him while performing their collaboration, CARNIVAL. The gesture has fueled speculation about a reconciliation, leaving fans to wonder how Kanye might respond. Alongside creative tensions, Carti faces legal scrutiny. Reports indicate he received a misdemeanor assault citation following an alleged confrontation with Giovanna “Gio” Ramos inside a limousine in Utah. The incident reportedly escalated, with Carti allegedly striking the driver and threatening another motorist. Addressing the situation publicly, Carti reassured fans that his wife was present and urged them not to “believe the hype.” He is scheduled to appear in court this December.

Comedian Alex Thomas recently reflected on his unexpected role in one of hip-hop’s biggest feuds. Back in the early 2000s, Thomas became part of 50 Cent’s legendary track “Back Down,” where he voiced the flamboyant caller who mocked Ja Rule. The skit closed out the diss record that helped solidify 50’s dominance during his battle with Murder Inc. and marked a major moment leading up to his debut album Get Rich or Die Tryin’. Thomas explained that the opportunity came through Dr. Dre, who had already worked with him on the 2001 film The Wash. After filming wrapped, Dre approached him about doing something new in the studio. He played Thomas an audio clip of a man calling into a radio station asking for Ja Rule, which became the inspiration for the skit. “I didn’t know who 50 Cent was,” Thomas admitted, recalling that he had no idea how serious the feud between 50 and Ja Rule really was at the time. He recorded the bit on the spot, finishing the job in about thirty minutes and earning ten thousand dollars for his time. Dre later surprised him with a pool table as a gift. However, Thomas’ name was purposely left out of the credits to make the prank sound real and keep fans guessing. “They wanted people to think it was an actual call,” he said. Over time, the moment grew into a piece of hip-hop history, though it caused some tension between Thomas and Ja Rule. The comedian insists there was no personal malice behind the performance, saying it was just business and part of the creative process. Looking back, he calls it a wild but unforgettable experience that connected comedy and rap in an unexpected way.

Martin Lawrence recently showed up big as a dad, gifting his daughter Iyanna Faith a sleek 2026 Porsche Macan wrapped in an orange ribbon, parked ready and waiting for her outside. The surprise was all dressed up—black-on-black finish, luxury SUV styling—and Iyanna, now 24, stepped into what she declared “This is my dream!” as she climbed into the driver’s seat and thanked her dad and everyone behind the scene. View this post on Instagram A post shared by HOT 97 (@hot97) Lawrence, known for his roles in film and comedy, had enlisted a high-end exotic car dealer, one that’s worked with big names, to pull off the delivery. He even relaxed in the back seat of his own Rolls-Royce Cullinan, grinning as he witnessed Iyanna’s reaction. For her, it was a moment of pure joy: she explored the console, flicked through menus, and clearly soaked in the moment. While the exact version of the Macan wasn’t revealed, the entry-level model starts at around $64,600 in the US with a 2.0-liter turbo four making 261 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. If it’s the higher-performance GTS variant, you’re looking at about 434 horsepower from a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 and a starting price in the $93,000 range. Whether Iyanna’s ride is base model or high tier, the expression on her face said everything. For Martin Lawrence, this wasn’t just a flashy gesture—it was a clear statement of support and pride. He’s the father of three daughters and has often spoken about being present in their lives. By making this moment happen, he’s added another memorable chapter to his role as dad, showing that his “Bad Boy” screen persona doesn’t define him at home.

Mya does not like the sound of her voice from her earlier recordings. Speaking with PEOPLE about the 25th anniversary of her classic album, Fear of Flying, Mya said she doesn’ listening to much of her old music. “I don’t really listen to a lot of the old music because I like my voice now,” Mýa shares. “It’s very cringey to me because I sound like a kid.”  “I get very emotional when I hear my younger voice because of all that was endured,”she continued. Mya recalled being a teenager when she launched into supertardom. “I was just a baby when I started fresh out of high school,” Mýa said. “The Grammw-winner ssfound herself in “a position where the world is looking at you.” Mya shared that she’s on continual “journey of self love.” “I am so enamored by the journey because sometimes it takes 25, 27, 30 years to come into who you’re going to be for the rest of your life And that’s where I am now,” Mýa said. “I’m still growing and evolving every few years — every six months, sometimes.” Mya also said that she’s navigated the ebbs and flows of the business and is doing better than ever, “I’m just truly proud of myself for withstanding so much. The industry’s changed, the world’s changed,” Mya said. “I’ve kept my sanity in the process,  while my art and my craft continue to get better. The world has yet to receive the best of Mýa.” Mýa believes that all she endured made the woman and artist she is today. “All of that was necessary to become the best musician, the best songwriter, the best person,” she explained. Released in April 2000, Fear of Flying was a platinum-selling commercial success that established Mýa as a major force in early 2000s R&B and Pop. The album featured “Case of the Ex (Whatcha Gonna Do)”, which became a massive international hit, alongside other charting singles like “The Best of Me” and “Free.”

Drake has been named, along with the online casino Stake and streamer Adin Ross, in a second class action lawsuit. New plaintiffs from New Mexico have joined earlier claimants in Missouri. They assert that Stake operates an illegal gambling enterprise disguised as a “social casino.” According to details reported by Casino Beats, plaintiffs allege that Stake’s supposed social gaming is merely a front. The platform uses a dual-token system in which non-redeemable “Gold Coins” generate redeemable “Stake Cash.” The conversion occurs at a one-to-one rate with the U.S. dollar. Critics describe the setup as a “virtual clone” of a traditional casino. Both Drake and Ross are accused of profiting substantially from promoting the platform, reportedly making millions annually. Plaintiffs argue that their influence on younger audiences normalizes gambling, portraying high-stakes betting as aspirational entertainment. Drake, Ross Accused of Promoting Gambling to Youth The lawsuit raises concerns about social responsibility, stating, “[Stake] threatens the welfare of Missouri residents and especially its young people.” It further contends that Drake’s involvement amounts to an implicit endorsement. As a result, it glamorizes gambling for millions of fans. The filing also claims that Stake provides “house money” to Drake and Ross. This suggests that publicized losses are carefully staged promotional tactics. Drake has yet to comment publicly on the allegations. Adin Ross, however, has dismissed the claims in a social media post, calling the lawsuit “bullsht” and urging followers to examine the documents themselves. “It’s fcking bullsh*t…,” he said, expressing frustration at what he described as misleading accusations.

During the Super Bowl LVI halftime show at SoFi Stadium, Eminem commanded the stage with his signature intensity. Beyond the performance, however, the rapper’s publishing company, Eight Mile Style, has stepped into a high-stakes legal battle with Meta. The case concerns alleged unauthorized use of his music across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. In May 2022, Eight Mile Style filed suit against the social media giant. The lawsuit highlights what the company describes as repeated exploitation of Eminem’s catalog without proper licensing. The lawsuit asserts that “Meta is one of the most valuable companies in the world.” It accuses the corporation of leveraging its size to pressure smaller challengers. Attorney Richard Busch emphasized the imbalance of power: “Meta may effortlessly start and then endure a war of attrition. This is in order to force a smaller opposing party into submission.” According to the filing, Meta allegedly used 243 of Eminem’s compositions for user-generated content, copying, syncing, and streaming videos without proper authorization. Each incident, the documents suggest, reflects a disregard for the legal and creative rights of artists. The Battle Over Artistic Control On April 25, 2024, Eminem appeared at the NFL Draft in Detroit. This served as a reminder of his enduring influence. Meanwhile, the legal case continues to unfold, aiming to address the use of his work in millions of social media videos without consent. Meta’s claimed access to the music stems from a 2020 agreement with digital rights facilitator Audiam. This agreement is now under scrutiny in court. Eight Mile Style casts the litigation as part of a larger fight against corporate overreach: “Meta’s years-long and ongoing infringement … Is another case of a trillion-dollar company exploiting the creative efforts of musical artists.” The company is seeking both financial damages and a permanent injunction to prevent future unauthorized use of Eminem’s catalog.