Over the weekend, Alex Bruesewitz and his now-wife, former beauty queen Carolina Urrea, held a star-studded wedding at President Donald Trump’s Doral Golf Course in Miami. Bruesewitz, a right-wing podcaster, was one of the major voices behind Trump during his 2024 presidential campaign. In addition to Trump’s family members and senior advisors, several prominent Black entertainers, including Nicki Minaj, Sexyy Red, and 50 Cent, were also present. Clips of the event have already circulated online. Fif and Sexyy were seen performing on stage, while Nicki was mingling with other guests. Also in attendance were Boxer Mike Tyson, Michael Blackson, Tristan Thompson, and Amber Rose. Sexyy Red hit the stage during the wedding of President Trump advisor Alex Bruesewitz and Carolina Urrea! #TSRStaffAS https://t.co/oGnbiEZYRu — TheShadeRoom (@TheShadeRoom) February 1, 2026 Nicki Minaj Goes Full MAGA In other news, Nicki Minaj made it clear she’s more than a supporter of President Donald Trump; she’s his biggest fan. Earlier this week, President Donald Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hosted a “Trump Accounts Summit” in Washington, D.C. Among the guest speakers was Nicki Minaj, who referred to herself as Trump’s “No.1 fan,” and accused others of “bullying” him. “I don’t know what to say, but I will say that I am probably the president’s No. 1 fan. That’s not going to change,” Minaj said. Minaj says the criticism she’s received only motivates her to “support him [Trump] more.” She continued, “It’s gonna motivate all of us to support him more.” The “Starships” rapper also made it a point to call out the president’s “bullies.” She added, “We’re not going to let them get away with bullying him and, you know, the smear campaigns: It’s not going to work, OK? He has a lot of force behind him, and God is protecting him. Amen.”

T.I. is signaling the end of his recording career with Kill The King, a project he has described as his final studio album. Earlier this month, he released “Let Em Know,” a Pharrell-produced single that introduces the tone of the forthcoming record. The announcement frames the album not as a dramatic farewell, but as a measured conclusion to a career that has spanned more than two decades. For the Atlanta rapper, the decision appears deliberate and long in the making. While attending the Grammy Awards with his wife, Tiny, T.I. spoke candidly about stepping away from music. “It’s a blessing, man. ‘Let Em Know,’ produced by Pharrell, is my first single off of my final album. It’s time for me to be done. They should know it; I’ve stated it before,” he said. He explained that his priorities have shifted toward family and other creative ambitions he has yet to fully explore. The album, he suggested, represents closure rather than retreat. TI says he’s officially retiring from Hip Hop and his new album that he’s rolling out will be his last album. pic.twitter.com/3Rbk5Y4tbX — Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod (@big_business_) February 2, 2026 The Meaning Behind “Kill The King” Though no release date has been announced, Kill The King has been in development for several years. In a 2023 interview with TMZ, T.I. reflected on the weight of the “King of the South” title that has followed him throughout his career. “I feel like the King of the South moniker can be quite egotistical. It’s a persona that often precedes me,” he said. Recalling advice from Big Boi, he added, “when you take on the title of king, you effectively put a target on your back. It’s a game of chess, and ‘Kill The King’ is what you risk setting yourself up for.” Talk of retirement has surfaced repeatedly in recent years. Ahead of his performance at the 2024 Jingle Ball concert for 96.1 The Beat, T.I. told fans it would be his final live appearance. “I’m thankful to you all for giving me my final gig. Financially, I’m set, and I simply don’t want to perform anymore,” he said. The moment reinforced a message he has delivered with increasing clarity. As Kill The King approaches release, the album stands as a closing chapter from an artist who helped define Southern hip-hop in the mainstream era. Rather than a sudden goodbye, the project reflects a thoughtful transition away from the stage. For listeners, it offers a final body of work shaped by reflection, experience, and intention.

Lil Wayne took the stage at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, on April 11, 2024, delivering a performance that highlighted his distinctive artistry. Yet amid the applause, a note of frustration lingered as he addressed a conspicuous absence from the Grammy nominations. The evening was both a celebration of music and a moment of reflection for the seasoned artist, Wayne. Despite releasing Tha Carter VI last June, Wayne’s fourteenth studio album received no nods from the Recording Academy. Following the 2026 Grammy Awards on Sunday night, he took to social media to express a mix of admiration for fellow nominees and disappointment in his own omission. His post drew an unusual comparison to NFL coach Bill Belichick. “Congrats to the nominees and winners. Wasn’t included, as usual. I gotta work harder, as usual. One time for my slime Bill Beli,” Wayne wrote. Referencing Belichick—celebrated for his accomplishments yet overlooked in his first year of Hall of Fame eligibility—Wayne captured a familiar sense of being passed over despite consistent achievement. Tha Carter VI debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 with 108,000 album-equivalent units in its first week. Critics offered a range of reactions, sparking industry conversations about Wayne’s lasting influence and the weight of recognition within hip-hop. There’s no denying the impact Wayne continues to have on the rap landscape. Congrats to the nominees and winners. Wasnt included. As usual. I gotta work harder. As usual. One time for my slime Bill Beli — Lil Wayne WEEZY F (@LilTunechi) February 2, 2026 Celebrating Hip-Hop Achievements While Wayne did not take home an award, the ceremony recognized several notable contributions to the genre. Kendrick Lamar won Best Rap Album for GNX and also claimed Best Rap Song for “tv off” and Best Melodic Rap Performance for “luther,” which contributed to the Record of the Year honor. Clipse earned Best Rap Performance for “Chains & Whips,” and Doecii was awarded Best Music Video for “Anxiety.” These Grammy moments served as reminders of Wayne’s own significant achievements in hip-hop. The night also featured moments of debate. Nicki Minaj publicly addressed Trevor Noah’s comedic jabs regarding her political affiliations. On X (formerly Twitter), she framed her response in spiritual terms: “As they do their ritual tonight, God almighty will reveal himself to them. The ritual will backfire on them. God will not be mocked.” Her remarks highlighted the intersection of faith, celebrity, and public scrutiny during high-profile events, a space Wayne himself is certainly familiar with.

Don Lemon is breaking his silence after his arrest for his alleged involvement in a Minnesota church protest he was reporting on. Earlier this week, Don Lemon was released from federal custody on his own recognizance. As he stood on the courthouse steps, the former CNN anchor thanked his supporters. “It really, it truly means the world to me,” he said. Lemon says he spent his “entire career covering the news,” and has no plans on slowing down. He continued: “I will not stop now. In fact, there is no more important time than right now.” It’s being reported that Lemon’s arrest occurred while covering a Grammy Awards event. Lemon confirmed this was true, saying, “Last night, the DOJ sent a team of federal agents to arrest me in the middle of the night for something I’ve been doing for the last 30 years, which is covering the news,” Lemon said. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images) “I will not be silenced,” Lemon Says He added, “The First Amendment protects that work for me and for countless other journalists. I stand with them, and I will not be silenced. I look forward to my day in court.” Lemon’s former employer, CNN, also spoke out about his recent arrest, calling it “unacceptable.” “The FBI’s arrest of our former CNN colleague Don Lemon raises profoundly concerning questions about press freedom and the First Amendment,” the statement reads. “The Department of Justice already failed twice to get an arrest warrant for Don and several other journalists in Minnesota, where a chief judge of the Minnesota Federal District Court found there was ’no evidence’ that there was any criminal behavior involved in their work.” The statement continues: “The First Amendment in the United States protects journalists who bear witness to news and events as they unfold, ensuring they can report freely in the public interest, and the DOJ’s attempts to violate those rights is unacceptable,” the outlet continued. “We will be following this case closely.”

“I assumed I was going to die,” Matthew Allen, a.k.a. Nur-D, told Rolling Stone. The Twin Cities rapper tells the outlet he woke up ready to enjoy a “regular day.” However, after witnessing a flurry of social media posts online about the ongoing anti-ICE protests, Allen realized he needed to join his fellow Minnesotans. For the past few weeks, the organization has been violently occupying the city, leading to multiple raids, as well as the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. Allen, with his wife by his side, attended the protest; however, it didn’t take long for things to take a turn for the worse. Not long after arriving, Allen was chased, violently slammed to the ground, and maced by ICE agents. “My name is Matthew James Obadiah Allen,” he screamed, pinned to the ground, “I have done nothing at all….I’m a United States citizen.” MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – Matthew Allen, a.k.a. Nur-D, before he was violently detained by ICE agents (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) “This is real… You could die just for saying, ‘I don’t like this.’” Allen Says Allen, who was eventually released from detention, noted that while he feared for his life, he wasn’t going to “help” agents make the situation into something it wasn’t. He added, “This is grabbing someone in the street who has done nothing wrong and killing them, and if that’s what we’re doing — I’ve already seen you do it today — that’s why any of us are even here right now. Most of us would rather be doing what we love to do on a Saturday morning.” Speaking with CBS News Minnesota, Allen noted the ongoing tensions between residents and ICE agents have become “life or death.” He continues: “This is real… You could die just for saying, ‘I don’t like this.’” Allen, a longtime community organizer, says he went to the protest to voice his “hurt and pain” and exercise his First Amendment right. “I just don’t think it’s cool to kill people on the street.”

Snoop Dogg’s daughter Cori Broadus is breaking her silence after announcing the passing of her 10-month-old daughter, Codi Dreaux. Earlier this week, on Monday (Jan.26), Cori shared the heartbreaking news about her daughter’s passing. “…I lost the love of my life,” she wrote in an Instagram Story post. “My Codi.” Just a few days later, in another Instagram Story post, Cori reshared a photo of her and her daughter lying in bed together. “20 days later, I’m sick,” she captioned it. Following the news, Cori’s finance and the father of their late daughter, Wayne Deuce, spoke out on his Instagram Story, writing, “I been the saddest since you left me, Cori Dreaux. But I know you at peace. Daddy will always love you.” Not long ago, Cori opened up about battling HELLP syndrome during the latter end of her pregnancy. View this post on Instagram Snoop Shows Love To His Daughter After Mourning Loss Of Her Child According to Cleveland Clinic, HELLP syndrome is a rare pregnancy complication similar to preeclampsia. Some of the symptoms include belly pain, blurred vision, fatigue, or swelling. That said, there has been no determination on what exactly led to the child’s death. Not long after Cori’s most recent post, Snoop publicly came out in support of her. On Saturday (Jan.31), Snoop shared a post with Cori and two of her siblings, Corde and Cordell. The trio looks more close-knit than ever, despite their recent tragedy. Snoop wasn’t the only one throwing support his daughter’s way, his comment section was also very sympathetic to Cori’s situation. Fans and celebrities alike offered words of encouragement to the 26-year-old. “Sending love and more love,” actress Nia Long wrote. Lil Mama also chimed in, writing, “I love you all. May God bestow strength and peace upon you as you grieve… such a precious life.”

Michael “5000” Watts has passed away at the age of 52, according to reports. Watts, a DJ and pioneer of Houston’s hip-hop scene, was the founder and president of Swishahouse alongside OG Ron C and G-Dash. In a statement released on Friday (Jan.30), Watts’ family confirmed the news of his death. “It is with profound sadness and heartbreak that we inform the public of our beloved Michael ‘5000’ Watts. On Jan. 30, 2026, Watts transitioned surrounded by loved ones,” the statement reads. “We truly appreciate the love shown to Michael throughout his career, and we ask for continued prayers as we navigate through this very hard journey.” Watts is survived by five children, two grandchildren, and his wife, Tammie. “His legacy and career started at the age of 14, and he continued his success as a business owner, DJ, radio personality, founder and owner of Swishahouse and pillar in the community,” the statement continues. A community event to honor his legacy is currently in the works, and details will be shared in the coming days via Watts’ social media pages. View this post on Instagram “Watts Was More Than A Founder, He Was A Movement” OG Ron C spoke with ABC 13 Houston about Watts’ passing in a statement, noting that Watts was more than a founder; he was a “movement.” “As the creator of Swishahouse Records, he helped define the sound, spirit, and global influence of Houston hip-hop. From the streets of Houston to international stages, Watts expanded on Houston’s chopped and screwed legacy, transforming mixtape culture into a worldwide phenomenon and giving a platform to voices that would go on to shape an era,” the statement reads. Ron noted that Watts helped to introduce and elevate “countless” artists, DJs, and producers. He says Watts built a brand that “stood for authenticity, independence, and cultural pride.” The statement continued: “Swishahouse became synonymous with innovation, hustle, and community, producing legendary mixtapes, shaping radio culture, and influencing generations of artists across hip-hop and beyond. His work helped put Houston on the global music map and cemented the city’s place as a cornerstone of American music history.”

Actor Billy Porter didn’t mince words when asked his opinion on Nicki Minaj’s public support of Donald Trump. “F—k her,” said Porter (several times) while on the red carpet for the MusiCares’ 2026 Person of the Year Gala. Porter, who’d been speaking with Hollywood Unlocked, made it clear he’s not a fan of Nicki Minaj’s shift toward the far-right. “When people show you who they are the first time,” Porter says. “Believe them.” He then went on to shame Minaj, as well as the other celebrities who’ve been aligning themselves with Trump. “I’m out,” Porter says, implying that any support he had for Minaj has gone out the window. Billy Porter talking about Nicki Minaj “F* her.” pic.twitter.com/2zyPWsexxU — Blackish Press (@blackishpress) January 31, 2026 Nicki Minaj and Don Lemon Trade Shots Porter isn’t the only public figure to call out Nicki Minaj’s support of Donald Trump. Not long ago, former CNN Anchor Don Lemon and Minaj became embroiled in a heated back-and-forth online. It all started after Lemon covered a story on a group of protestors who stormed a Minnesota church after it was discovered that one of its pastors had ties to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Lemon, who had been reporting via his livestream, confronted a pastor about the church’s connections to the group. Not long after the clip began to circulate online, it somehow reached Nicki Minaj’s timeline. Minaj called the long-time journalist a “c—cksucker,” and pleaded for him to be jailed. “DON ‘COCK SUCKIN’ LEMON IS DISGUSTING. HOW DARE YOU?” she wrote in an X post. I WANT THAT THUG IN JAIL!!!!! HE WOULD NEVER DO THAT TO ANY OTHER RELIGION. LOCK HIM UP!!!!!” Lemon told TMZ he’s not “surprised” about Nicki’s actions. “[She] does not understand journalism and is weighing in on matters that are above her capacity.”

At 79, Grady Demond Wilson, who gained popularity for his role as Lamont on Sanford and Son, has passed away. TMZ spoke with Wilson’s son, who revealed that the actor was pronounced dead on Friday (Jan.30) at his home in Palm Springs, California. “I loved him. He was a great man,” he said. According to the outlet, Wilson passed away due to complications from cancer. However, there was no information given about what specific cancer Wilson had been diagnosed with. Sanford and Son was a popular 1970s NBC sitcom starring the late comedian Redd Foxx and Wilson, who professionally went by Demond. Foxx portrayed the loud-mouth patriarch, Fred G. Sanford, who was a widower and junk dealer, whereas Wilson played his soft-spoken, peacemaker son, Lamont Sanford. American actors Red Foxx (1922 – 1991) (left) Demond Wilson in a still from the television series, ‘Sanford And Son,’ c. 1974. (Photo by NBC Television/Courtesy of Getty Images) Wilson spent his early career as a broadway actor and trained dancer Wilson was born in 1946 in Valdosta, Georgia, but grew up in New York City, where he studied tap dance and ballet. He made his Broadway debut at only four years of age. By the age of 12, he was performing at Harlem’s Apollo Theater. As a young man, he pledged his service to the United States Army and served in Vietnam. After being wounded, he returned home, working on several Broadway and off-Broadway stage productions, before setting his sights on Hollywood. Following his role on Sanford and Son, Wilson starred in another sitcom, ABC’s The New Odd Couple. The show worked as an updated version of the iconic 70s series, The Odd Couple. However, unlike its predecessor, this series primarily focused on an African-American cast. Wilson portrayed Oscar Madison, the easy-going, sloppy character, whereas Felix Unger, the uptight neatfreak, was portrayed by actor Ron Glass. However, the show would only last one season amid a Hollywood writers’ strike that was taking place at the time. Wilson would also land a small role on the big screen in the 1993 comedy-drama film Me and the Kid.

On a recent episode of Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay podcast, Kevin Gates opened up about the depths of his struggle with drug addiction, offering an unflinching look at his darkest moments. “I was so depressed, I just needed something to cope,” Gates admitted, recounting a 2020 episode of despair. “I shot myself in the head before; I got a bullet in my head. I didn’t want to live. Holding my baby, my child, tears coming down my face, knowing I was about to take myself out… Nobody’s going to miss me anyway. That’s how I felt. And that wasn’t that long ago.” Gates spoke candidly about the silent suffering that can accompany even moments of apparent stability. He explained that despite not using drugs at certain points, he felt immense pressure and emptiness, compounded by the demands of his career. His 2019 fitness journey, he revealed, was partly “a cry for help,” while a transformative trip to Puerto Rico later sparked a turning point in his path toward healing and self-renewal. Through his story, Gates hopes to encourage others facing similar struggles to speak out and seek support. The artist’s candid reflections illustrate the power of vulnerability and resilience, as he channels past pain into motivation for growth and creativity. Kevin Gates Sh*t Himself In The Head In 2020: “Crying for help.” “I was so depressed, I just needed something to cope. I didn’t want to live. Unc, I done sh*t myself in the head before, I got a bullet in my head Unc. I ain’t wanna live, I was f*cked up.”- @iamkevingates pic.twitter.com/2tS2XLYTjj — Club Shay Shay (@ClubShayShay) January 29, 2026 Personal Loss and Its Lasting Impact The conversation also turned to Gates’ personal life, particularly the loss of his father to AIDS. Gates expressed lingering regret over not being able to do more during his father’s illness. “That’s what led me to explore holistic medicine,” he said. “I spent a significant amount of time with him until he passed. He imparted numerous valuable lessons to me. If I could go back, I could have cured him. While I’m no Dr. Sebi, I’ve come to take health very seriously because of him.”