A complaint filed this week against Philadelphia judge Scott DiClaudio has drawn the attention of Pennsylvania’s Judicial Conduct Board, which alleges he acted improperly in connection with a sensitive criminal case. At the center of the controversy is Dwayne Jones, a longtime friend of Meek Mill, who faces charges in a fatal shooting. Allegations Against Judge DiClaudio The complaint stems from an encounter in June, when Judge Zachary Shaffer and his law clerk visited a restaurant owned by DiClaudio’s wife. After their purchase, DiClaudio is said to have slipped Shaffer a note bearing Jones’ name and courtroom number. He allegedly remarked, “I’ve heard you might do the right thing anyway,” before destroying the note. That brief exchange has raised sharp ethical concerns, particularly since Jones was awaiting sentencing at the time. Shaffer reported the incident to court administrators, leading to the misconduct complaint. The Court of Judicial Discipline is expected to weigh the matter in the coming weeks. Meek Mill’s History With the Courts Although not tied to Jones’ case, Meek Mill’s own experience with Philadelphia’s justice system runs deep. At 19, he was arrested in North Philadelphia on gun and drug charges. A decade later, in 2019, he reached a plea deal that resolved the case with a single firearms conviction, clearing the rest of the charges. Following his release, Mill expressed gratitude for the support he had received and recommitted himself to criminal justice reform. In recent months, Mill has turned to creative pursuits, announcing on social media plans to raise $5 million for a new album, a book, and a short film. The move reflects both artistic ambition and a determination to shape his narrative beyond the courtroom. Conclusion As the DiClaudio case unfolds, it places renewed focus on the boundaries of judicial conduct and the weight of personal ties in the legal system. In contrast, Meek Mill’s trajectory underscores resilience and the possibility of reinvention after legal hardship. Together, they offer a window into the uneasy overlap of justice, influence, and redemption.

A clash between two prominent rap figures has erupted across social media, pulling fans into a heated debate and adding fresh tension to hip-hop’s ever-churning landscape. Sukihana publicly challenged Tekashi 6ix9ine over disparaging remarks he directed at Young Thug, a dispute that escalated when 6ix9ine invoked the name of his late friend, Ariela La Langosta, drawing the controversy into even more personal terrain. La Langosta was found dead in her car this past August, her death still under investigation, according to People. At the time, 6ix9ine shared his grief online, writing, “NY won’t ever be the same. I loved you.” His decision to bring her into a public feud has since sparked backlash from those who say her memory should remain untouched by online sparring. On Instagram, Sukihana urged the rapper to redirect his focus. “Six9ine stop talking bout thug and talk bout home girl that just died,” she wrote. The remark drew an immediate and pointed response from 6ix9ine: “The girl was one of my best friends who I met while being a girl in my music videos. She was killed because HER BOYFRIEND owed money. What does that have to do with ya man tellin @sukihanagoat I know ya PH balance off stank treesh.” 6ix9ine taunts as Young Thug faces scrutiny The exchange ricocheted through hip-hop media after DJ Akademiks shared the posts with his audience. Reactions were mixed: one commenter praised 6ix9ine’s sharp retorts, while another noted, “His plan is starting to work. Attention by any means necessary.” Amid the uproar, 6ix9ine has leaned into the spectacle by teasing a new diss track aimed squarely at Young Thug. Previewing it on Instagram, he wrote, “Seen a snake turn spider turn rat don’t tell the world just please let me out man watchaht.” The track, which borrows from the nursery rhyme “The Itsy Bitsy Spider,” is in keeping with his penchant for provocation. For Young Thug, the timing is fraught. He is already under scrutiny after a resurfaced interrogation video fueled speculation about whether he cooperated with authorities—a claim he has denied, backed by Peewee Roscoe, the man referenced in the clip. Separate leaked phone calls from prison have only added to the chatter, leaving Thug navigating both legal challenges and the relentless gaze of the public. View this post on Instagram A post shared by DJ Akademiks (@akademiks)

A Los Angeles judge has ordered Kanye West to appear in person for a deposition in a lawsuit filed by a former Donda Academy employee. The court set a strict 30-day deadline for West to answer questions under oath, following repeated delays in the process. The case, brought by Trevor Phillips in April 2024, alleges serious misconduct at the school. Phillips claims he was employed by West and witnessed him frequently sharing antisemitic views with staff. He also says West once talked about shaving students’ heads and had plans to construct a jail on school grounds. Phillips further asserts that West regularly berated and bullied Black employees, including himself. The lawsuit lists harassment, discrimination, and the creation of a hostile work environment among its claims, and Phillips is seeking monetary compensation for the alleged mistreatment. According to TMZ, court documents state that Phillips has made multiple attempts to get West to sit for a deposition, but each effort has been unsuccessful. The judge’s order is an attempt to force West to comply and provide testimony directly to Phillips’ legal team. West’s attorney, Eduardo Martorell, was contacted for comment but declined to respond. The upcoming deposition could mark a critical point in the lawsuit, giving Phillips the chance to question West under oath for the first time since filing the case.

GloRilla is asking a federal court in Louisiana to dismiss a copyright lawsuit that claims she borrowed a viral phrase for her song “Never Find.” The motion, filed alongside UMG Recordings, Warner Chappell Music, and BMG Rights Management, argues that the phrase “no BBL” is too short and common to be legally protected. The suit was brought by Natalie Henderson, also known as Slimdabodylast. Henderson’s complaint centers on her song “All Natural,” which features the lyrics “all naturale, no BBL.” She says her track gained traction on social media in early 2024 for celebrating natural bodies. Henderson contends that GloRilla’s lyric—“Natural, no BBL, but I’m still gon’ give them hell”—is strikingly similar and that the rapper and her collaborators have profited from her original work. GloRilla’s legal team challenges the lawsuit on multiple fronts. They argue Henderson cannot prove that GloRilla had access to her song. Posting a track online, they say, does not meet the legal standard for establishing access. Courts typically require evidence that a work has been widely distributed or commercially successful, which they claim Henderson’s song does not satisfy. The defense also disputes any substantial similarity between the two tracks. Henderson’s phrase appears repeatedly as a hook, while GloRilla’s line is used once in a different context with a distinct rhyme. The lawyers point out that expressions like “give them hell” are common across music and do not constitute copying. Additionally, GloRilla’s team questions whether Henderson can claim both statutory and actual damages and says she has not demonstrated infringement sufficient to warrant an injunction. They also argue that phrases celebrating natural bodies are common in other recent songs and do not meet the originality required for copyright protection. The motion asks the court to dismiss the case entirely, stating that viral expressions, even popular ones, cannot automatically be treated as intellectual property.

Teyana Taylor graces the latest cover of Marie Claire, opening up about her career, creativity, and the advice that helped shape her path in music and performance. In the interview, she reflects on her latest album, making it clear it’s about far more than personal relationships. “It’s so much bigger than, you know, people automatically just assuming, ‘Oh my god, this is just [about a] relationship.’ No, baby. I’ve been in relationships with music … friendships … business, all of the things, all across the board,” the 34-year-old tells Marie Claire. “So it’s escaping the things that just do not serve me—even if that includes myself, because we sometimes fall into these dark places. You got to hold yourself accountable. Say, ‘Girl, get up. Get out of this space. Get out of this room. Get out of this box.’” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marie Claire (@marieclairemag) Teyana’s perspective on ambition was shaped early by Beyoncé. At just 15, she choreographed Beyoncé’s “Ring the Alarm” video, and the superstar became a long-term mentor. Around the release of her debut album VII in 2014, Teyana recalls a pivotal conversation with Beyoncé: “You’re never gonna fully get what you want unless you go and do it yourself.” That guidance fueled Teyana’s ambitious approach. “I was kind of one of the only up-and-coming artists that was like: ‘I want a band, I want six dancers. I want, I want, I want.’ I wanted the world. I wanted everything with a bubblegum and shoestring budget. And I realized that I would walk away with less money because I was paying more people,” she explains. Beyoncé’s mentorship reassured her: “Of course it hurts in the moment, because it’s like, ‘Oh my god, I could be making so much more money.’ But then [I’d talk] to Bey, and she just gives you that reassurance of like, ‘Oh no, that’s normal. That just means you’re a true creative. Spend the money. Do what you gotta do to get what you want.’” That early advice not only shaped Teyana’s career decisions but also helped establish her as a bold, uncompromising creative in music and performance.

Offset has drawn widespread attention with the release of his third studio album, KIARI. The project arrives with high expectations and a standout roster of collaborators, from John Legend and NBA YoungBoy to Gunna and JID. Their track “Bodies,” built around a Drowning Pool interpolation, highlights a synergy where Offset’s precise delivery meets JID’s lyrical sharpness. Critical and fan reception has been overwhelmingly positive. KIARI is being hailed as one of Offset’s most accomplished solo efforts, bolstered by appearances from YFN Lucci and Key Glock. The energy carried over to The Tonight Show yesterday, where Offset and JID delivered a live performance of “Bodies” that drew immediate praise. One fan captured the moment succinctly: “It’s like this song was made for everybody on that stage.” Offset has paired the album with striking visuals, releasing a music video for each track and amplifying the project’s impact beyond streaming platforms. A remix of “Bodies,” produced by BNYX, adds fresh urgency to the rollout, demonstrating his determination to remain central in both the hip-hop scene and the broader cultural conversation. Artistic Success, Personal Strain Yet his professional momentum unfolds against a backdrop of personal upheaval. Offset’s divorce from Cardi B, finalized last year just before the birth of their third child, continues to draw public attention and scrutiny. On the Full Send Podcast, Offset addressed marriage and commitment with characteristic candor. “I’ve done it. Had three kids with it — It’s like a mission that’s been complete,” he said, acknowledging the toll and transformation involved. He went further, advising host Kyle Forgeard on the challenges marriage entails: “Yeah, I’d tell you don’t get married unless you’re ready for a complete life transition,” he explained, offering insight that mirrors both the intensity of his personal life and the precision of his artistry. Offset & JID perform “Bodies” with Drowning Pool on The Tonight Showpic.twitter.com/bFj7LLSJ1H — HotNewHipHop (@HotNewHipHop) September 9, 2025

Fat Joe recently opened up about how conflicts with other artists impacted his career and cost him major business deals. On a recent episode of Complex’s Sneaker Shopping, the Bronx rapper revealed that both Air Jordan and Reebok deals fell apart in the mid-2000s because of his well-known feuds with 50 Cent and Jay-Z. He explained that a confrontation with 50 Cent at the 2005 MTV Video Music Awards played a role in Air Jordan passing on a collaboration. Fat Joe says Michael Jordan personally called him to explain the situation. “Yo, Big Joe, you know, I’m not with controversy. Maybe we look at this in the future,” Jordan reportedly told him. Reebok, which had offered a multi-million-dollar sneaker deal, also withdrew after an executive realized Fat Joe was not on good terms with Jay-Z. “Reebok had approached me and was like, ‘Yo, we want to do a sneaker with you for millions.’ I caught the squeeze play cause Hov was over there and 50 Cent,” he said. “They shut it down. They was just like, ‘Yo, we won’t do business with you if you give this guy a sneaker.’ That’s part of the karma. It’s part of the ins and outs. I’ve done it to other guys. It came back to me.” Outside of business setbacks, Fat Joe is also facing legal challenges. In June, his former hype-man Terrance Dixon filed a $20 million lawsuit, claiming he witnessed the rapper engage in illegal behavior, including sleeping with minors and using intimidation tactics. Fat Joe has denied the allegations and addressed them on social media. “I’ve never let anyone on the streets extort me, so how would I ever let a crooked attorney and a coward ex-hype man extort me?? I’m from the Bronx!” These experiences highlight the costs of high-profile rivalries and legal battles in the music industry. Fat Joe’s story shows that even for seasoned artists, the choices made in conflicts and personal relationships can have lasting effects on both career opportunities and personal life.

The legal saga surrounding YNW Melly continues to shift as new developments unfold in the case of his co-defendant, Cortlen “YNW Bortlen” Henry. Bortlen, implicated in the alleged 2018 murders of Christopher “YNW Juvy” Thomas Jr. and Anthony “YNW Sakchaser” Williams, struck a plea deal just a day before his jury selection was set to begin. Bortlen, originally facing two counts of first-degree murder with a firearm and two counts of accessory after the fact, was also navigating a separate 2023 witness-tampering case. Under the agreement, he will serve 10 years in prison, followed by six years of probation. He pleaded no contest to the accessory after the fact charges and the tampering counts, leading to the dismissal of the more serious murder allegations. The deal also obliges him to assist prosecutors, providing testimony that could prove pivotal in ongoing investigations. Bortlen Plea Shakes Up Melly Case John M. Phillips, the attorney representing YNW Sakchaser’s family, weighed in on the implications. “As predicted, YNW Bortlen took the plea deal. He also agreed to a proffer—which means he’s talking,” Phillips noted on social media, signaling potential ripple effects for related civil proceedings. Meanwhile, Melly remains behind bars as he prepares for a retrial after a 2023 jury deadlock ended in a mistrial. The second trial, scheduled for January 2027, will revisit two counts of first-degree murder. Known for his 2018 track “Murder on My Mind,” Melly has requested new legal counsel, bringing on seasoned attorneys Drew Findling and Carey Haughwout amid concerns over his current representation. Adding another layer to the case, Melly has alleged inhumane treatment while in Broward County Jail, fueling public scrutiny and debate. Together, these developments highlight the intricate and often unpredictable nature of high-profile criminal proceedings, where plea deals, retrials, and new allegations continuously reshape both legal outcomes and public perception.

Saweetie stopped by HOT 97 to talk to Nessa about her new EP Hella Pressure, which dropped in August. She opened up about why she chose that title, how the project mixes rapping and singing, and whether she feels the industry has allowed her to grow at her own pace. She also reflected on going nearly a decade without releasing her debut album and what being in “album mode” really means. Saweetie didn’t shy away from addressing critics either, including the viral “1% battery” comment, and spoke about how she handles trolls online and who she turns to when it gets overwhelming. She also talked about her Afrobeat-inspired track “I Need Some Inspo” and shared how she finds motivation in life and music. Beyond music, Saweetie talks about how she’d want a biopic on her to look, her plans to launch a beauty brand and what’s next. Nessa asked about sacrifices she’s made for her career, how she navigates fame compared to when “ICY GRL” blew up, and the advice she’d give her younger self. Saweetie also reflected on the legacy she wants to leave behind and how she wants to be remembered. Stream Hella Pressure now!

Ice Spice has shown that her friendship with Taylor Swift is strong and untouchable, even when faced with playful pressure for a viral moment. The two artists first connected while working on the 2023 remix of Swift’s hit “Karma,” and their bond has continued since then. Ice has described Swift as “my sis,” recalling a time they spent chatting and laughing while enjoying a drink together. Kai Cenat tries getting Ice Spice to call Taylor Swift during stream. pic.twitter.com/VPhQhPCAWq — Pop Base (@PopBase) September 6, 2025 Swift has also praised Ice, highlighting her professionalism, focus, and ability to balance fun with clear boundaries. She said, “I relate to Ice in many ways, but I think her dedication and focus is what blew me away from the very start. She’s extremely professional without being cold. Playful and fun without ever taking her eye off the prize. She knows what is and isn’t ‘her’ and sets those boundaries with grace. She studies the industry and other artists’ careers but is very clear about charting her own definitive, original path. It’s her ability to carefully find that balance that impresses the hell out of me.” Recently, Ice appeared on Kai Cenat’s livestream alongside Latto to promote their new collaboration, “Gyatt.” Cenat attempted to coax her into calling Swift live, even suggesting she congratulate the singer on her engagement to Travis Kelce. Ice immediately turned down the idea, joking, “No, ‘cause if she don’t answer, I’mma lose aura,” and added, “You peer pressuring me into calling my best contact.” Cenat insisted, claiming her aura would skyrocket if the call went through, but Ice remained firm. The clip of the exchange quickly went viral, with fans praising Ice for protecting her real-life friendship over creating a viral moment. Many commented on social media that she made the smart choice by keeping Swift’s privacy in mind, noting that Swift is likely busy with her music and personal life. Through both public admiration and personal interaction, Ice Spice and Taylor Swift’s relationship stands out as one built on mutual respect and genuine camaraderie. Ice’s recent livestream moment was a reminder that she knows how to balance fun with loyalty.