In a memorable night for Toronto music fans, Drake took the stage alongside Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel. The appearance coincided with a milestone for Kartel. He became the first dancehall artist to sell out three consecutive shows at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena. These performances marked Kartel’s Canadian debut, orchestrated by Drake and his OVO team just four weeks after the announcement. Drake hyped the shows on Instagram, writing: “@vybzkartel DI TEACHA LIVE IN TORONTO FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER CHAMPAGNE BDAY CELEBRATIONS.” Initially, only two shows were scheduled for October 26 and 27. Demand was so high that a third show was quickly added for October 30. This underscored Kartel’s growing influence and the anticipation surrounding his arrival. Drake’s surprise appearance highlighted the mutual respect between the two artists, whose relationship has grown over years of collaboration and admiration. As he joined Kartel on stage, wearing a Toronto Blue Jays cap and a custom “Worl Boss” jersey, the pair shared a warm embrace. Drake reflected on the influence of Kartel’s music, saying, “Look at all these people right here. How much time we’ve spent with this man’s music. I used to hand out flyers outside of a club just to get in and listen to your tune. So, one more time, please. As a city, as a family, make some motherf*cking noise for the World Boss.” The tribute drew thunderous applause from the packed arena, capturing the energy and camaraderie that defined the evening. Drake’s Birthday and ICEMAN Buzz Drake’s participation also extended the celebration of his own October 24 birthday. Fans eagerly speculate about his next project, ICEMAN, which is expected to make a significant impact in the coming weeks. Johnny Manziel recently teased the project on social media, offering a glimpse into Drake’s high-energy month: “Went back to Tuscaloosa for the first time since 2012… Back to South beach for my dog’s birthday, ended up at Booby Trap. Been a month for the books and we still got 9 days left.” With Vybz Kartel’s Canadian milestone and the anticipation of ICEMAN, music enthusiasts are left eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the careers of both artists. Drake joined Vybz Kartel for his first-ever Canadian show in Toronto “We were just talking about how much time we’ve spent with this man’s music right here.” pic.twitter.com/C8DWTQ1Akl — Kurrco (@Kurrco) October 27, 2025

Central Cee is once again joining forces with Nike—this time for a sleek trio of Air Force 1 Lows slated for release in spring 2026. The collaboration, Central Cee x Nike Air Force 1 Low, has already generated buzz among sneaker collectors, arriving on the heels of the UK rapper’s earlier partnership on the Air Max 95. Known for blending London’s street sensibility with global appeal, Central Cee continues to shape the dialogue between music, fashion, and culture. Since its debut in 1982, the Air Force 1 has become one of Nike’s most recognizable silhouettes—beloved by athletes, artists, and designers alike. Its clean lines, durability, and adaptable design have helped it transcend generations, transforming from a basketball staple into a global fashion statement. For Central Cee, whose image and sound are rooted in the energy of modern London, this collaboration is both homage and innovation. The forthcoming release includes three versions: a limited “friends and family” pair, a “Dark Beetroot” colorway exclusive to the UK, and a general release featuring black, white, and smoke grey tones. Each will feature the artist’s gold-embossed logo on the heel—a detail that personalizes the shoe while signaling authenticity. The Design Language The “Dark Beetroot” edition brings a deep, luxurious red to the Air Force 1’s timeless structure. Its polished leather upper and tonal detailing lend it a refined edge without compromising the shoe’s street identity. Central Cee’s signature gold insignia adds a bold contrast, while matching laces, midsoles, and outsoles complete the cohesive, monochromatic look. The remaining two versions—one for select insiders, the other for global distribution—speak to Central Cee’s duality as both a local and international tastemaker. Each model underscores how his influence stretches far beyond music, shaping fashion narratives and cultural aesthetics alike. According to Sneaker Bar Detroit, the Central Cee x Nike Air Force 1 Low collection will arrive in spring 2026, with pricing details to follow closer to launch. As anticipation mounts, the project stands as another testament to how seamlessly the rapper continues to bridge his creative worlds—music, design, and identity—into one cohesive vision.

50 Cent is once again stirring conversation in the hip-hop world—this time with his signature mix of humor and provocation. The rapper and entrepreneur recently took to social media to tease longtime G-Unit collaborator Tony Yayo. He urged him to reply to comments made by Jim Jones during a recent interview. The lighthearted exchange highlighted not only their friendship but also the competitiveness that has always fueled hip-hop’s sharpest rivalries. In a video posted from a private jet, 50 Cent delivered his message with a grin. “I’ve been doing some soul searching, and I think I want out of the group, okay? He just wears G-Unit on his hat. Taking too long to respond to Jimmy. Put it in the comments section,” he said. The clip, humorous as it was, underscored 50’s knack for keeping moments of tension entertaining. It’s a balance he’s mastered throughout his career. Yayo responded in stride, offering a confident take that reflected both wit and awareness. “People talk about me every day. Why? Because I’m on a jet right now. That’s why. I’m in the algorithm,” he said. “So what you gotta do is take a shot at me. You do the most numbers; they’re gonna talk about you.” His words captured how fame now moves at the speed of social media—where visibility can matter as much as music itself. Fans quickly joined the conversation on No Jumper’s Instagram post, adding to the moment’s viral appeal. One user joked, “Yayo is in a better position than both of them anyway.” Meanwhile, another wrote, “Yayo just wants to link up; he doesn’t want to discuss this online.” The reactions underscored how even playful jabs between artists can ignite entire online debates. They blur the lines between authenticity, showmanship, and entertainment. View this post on Instagram A post shared by No Jumper (@nojumper) Jim Jones Rekindles Old Tensions The playful back-and-forth followed remarks Jim Jones made on Artist 2 Artist, where he didn’t hold back on Yayo. “You look like you need to be taken care of; you look like you need to go to the dentist; you look like you need to brush your teeth… You look like you need help. Tell your man 50 to send you an ounce or something. You might need two ounces,” he said. The cutting comments, though personal in tone, spoke to deeper frustrations within the web of hip-hop alliances and rivalries. Jones’s sharp words are part of a larger pattern. Over the years, he’s exchanged public shots with several peers, including Max B, Cam’ron, and 50 Cent himself. These recurring tensions are as much about pride as they are about performance. It’s an ever-present thread in hip-hop, where competition and camaraderie often coexist. Whether this latest jab turns into another lyrical showdown remains to be seen. But if history is any guide, 50 Cent and Tony Yayo are unlikely to leave Jim Jones’ remarks unanswered for long.

The long-awaited Cash Money vs. No Limit Verzuz event reunited some of the biggest names in Southern hip-hop history, but noticeably missing was one of the original Hot Boys, Turk. His absence didn’t go unnoticed, especially after Birdman called him out on stage. During the performance, Birdman took a moment to address Turk in front of the crowd, saying, “Shout out to Turk, you little b*tch. You ain’t here but fk you… We gon’ fk with you when we gon’ fk with you.” The comment immediately went viral, sparking conversations across social media about lingering tension between the Cash Money co-founder and his former artist. Turk Responds Turk didn’t stay silent for long. In a recent video, he addressed both the comments and his absence from the show, making it clear that he stands on self-respect over clout or nostalgia. “I don’t kiss no as, bruh. I wish them dudes well. But man, I wish myself more well, man. You know what I’m talking about? That’s just what it is,” Turk said. He also revealed that he wasn’t officially invited to participate in the Verzuz event — and that business issues behind the scenes played a major role in why he wasn’t there. “I wasn’t invited. … I don’t go where I ain’t invited and I don’t stay where I’m not welcome,” he explained. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Shade Room (@theshaderoom) According to Turk, his absence wasn’t a matter of disloyalty — it was business. He goes on to say that despite Birdman’s comments, he does have love for him- it’s just a “strange” love. Fans were hoping for a full Hot Boys reunion — Turk, Juvenile, Lil Wayne, and B.G. — to mark a nostalgic chapter in Southern rap history. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Apple Music (@applemusic)

R&B singer Sammie is breaking his silence after being arrested in Georgia on charges related to domestic violence and child cruelty. According to reports, the 38-year-old artist, was taken into custody on October 19, 2025, and booked on counts of first-degree battery (family violence) and third-degree cruelty to children. Police say the alleged incident involved his partner and occurred in front of a child. Sammie was later released on bond, reported to be approximately $1,050. Following news of his arrest, Sammie took to Instagram to address the situation briefly, urging fans to stay patient as the legal process unfolds.“Happy Sunday… I’m gonna let God have his say, and the courts have their say, and the truth shall set you free. Love. I appreciate y’all. Thank y’all for the concerns. Love.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by SAMMIE…I sing a bit (@sammiealways) Sammie speaks out: The singer’s message reflected a tone of faith and calm rather than denial or admission, emphasizing that he believes “the truth shall set you free.”Sammie also appeared frustrated by the way certain outlets covered the story, commenting under a post by The Shade Room:  “SR yall know better. Should’ve hit me & my team first for the facts opposed for click bait, yall know how I rock. Yall brought me back career wise. But I see yall pushing the agenda of negativity and that’s fine. God bless yall. I pray the apologies are as loud as the lies and offenses.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Shade Room (@theshaderoom) Details surrounding the alleged incident remain limited. Authorities have not released a full police report, and neither Sammie’s partner nor representatives have issued an official statement beyond what’s appeared online. As of now, Sammie maintains his innocence publicly, saying he’ll allow “the courts and God” to have their say. Official court documents and further statements from both sides are expected to clarify the situation in the coming days.

According to a lawsuit filed by two of Muni Long’s managers, the singer owes them over $600,000 for “unpaid commissions.” In a federal courtroom on Thursday (Oct.23), Long’s former managers, Chaka Zulu and Jeff Dixon, claimed the Grammy Award-winning R&B singer is in “breach of contract.” Zulu and Dixion are the founders of Ebony Son Entertainment, an Atlanta-based management company. The duo is mostly known for their previous work, managing Ludacris and eventually starting the record label, Disturbing Tha Peace in 1998. Court documents obtained by Billboard go in-depth about the federal complaint filed by Zulu and Dixon. The duo claims they were “instrumental” in Long’s success, specifically her win for Best R&B Performance at the 2025 Grammy Awards. The singer won for her live performance of “Made For Me” at the 2024 BET Awards. Prior to the Grammy Awards, Long parted ways with Zulu and Dixon. Now, the pair is claiming they’re owed “hefty commissions” from live shows, recording, and writing gigs, according to the complaint. NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 06: Muni Long performs during 2025 Essence Festival of Culture at Caesars Superdome on July 06, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images) “Priscilla Renea Hamilton is publicly known as the musical artist ‘Muni Long’ but her less well-known performances are as a serial grifter,” Court Documents Read “Defendant Priscilla Renea Hamilton is publicly known as the musical artist ‘Muni Long’ but her less well-known performances are as a serial grifter,” the court documents read.”After taking the benefit of plaintiff’s elite and highly sought-after management services for more than a year, Muni Long shamelessly reneged on her promises to pay plaintiff the agreed-upon, customary percentage of revenue she earned, and only earned because plaintiff assisted in obtaining those engagements.” In a statement to Billboard, Long and her team referred to the claims as “unfounded.” The team stated it’s “deeply unfortunate that the matter could not be resolved privately and professionally,” claiming Long made “good faith” settlement offers even though “no formal contract ever existed.” They also claimed that Zulu and Dixion were involved in taking possession of her phone and sought to have her “involuntarily committed to a mental health facility.” The added, “All appropriate avenues are being pursued to ensure that the truth is fully and fairly defended. The artist hopes this underscores the importance to all those in creative fields to safeguard their personal and professional boundaries and be discerning about those they trust to represent them.”

Summer Walker has officially confirmed that the next installment of her Over It series will be two parts—each with its own vinyl cover. The singer shared the announcement on Friday (Oct. 24) via her Instagram page—the album, which is expected to drop on Nov. 14, offers an interesting twist on the wedding vow, “For Better or For Worse.” “Vinyl cover art revealed Finally Over It is a 2-part album about the choices we have left when true love feels impossible. One side chooses me, the other sacrifices love completely. For Better or For Worse.Official album art coming soon,” she wrote in the post’s caption. Throughout the collage post, Walker takes fans through the journey that inspired this next chapter in her life and music. View this post on Instagram A post shared by @summerwalker “For Better is about choosing me, fully and finally,” Walker Says “For Better is about choosing me, fully and finally. I’ve made choices that didn’t always make sense to anyone else, but I don’t regret any of them. They all taught me something,” Walker wrote. “Every heartbreak brought me back to myself. I’m not looking for someone to complete me; I’m already whole. I’m protecting my peace, honoring my worth, and sitting in a softness that’s still strong.” She added, “So, whatever I choose now, I’m choosing from a place of power, not pain. I’m clear, I’m aligned, I’m better.” Regarding the project’s B-Side, “For Worse,” Walker refers to it not being “bitter,” but “honest.” She continued: “I’ve loved too hard, ignored red flags, and tried to fix things that were beyond repair. The difference now is I love myself that deeply, I’ve grown, I’ve healed, and I refuse to accept anything less than princess treatment.” Aside from the project’s lead single, “Heart Of A Woman,” the full tracklist for the album has yet to be released. That said, features for the project that have been shared so far will include Latto, Sexyy Red, and GloRilla.

Drea Kelly is calling for deeper conversations about how domestic violence victims are treated, particularly within the Black community. In a new interview, she questioned why certain survivors receive widespread empathy and support while others are overlooked. The former wife of R. Kelly pointed to Cassie Ventura’s case against Sean “Diddy” Combs as an example, saying that Cassie’s bravery was celebrated far more than others who have come forward with similar stories. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Shade Room (@theshaderoom) Cassie testified earlier this year, describing years of abuse and assault throughout her relationship with the music mogul. Her courage was widely praised across social media, but Drea believes that response revealed a painful truth. “So we need to start being real as a community. We pick and choose who we want to celebrate and advocate for, based even upon the way that they look,” she said. Drea reflected on her own experience as a survivor, sharing that when she accused R. Kelly of physical abuse, she didn’t receive the same outpouring of support. She also mentioned Keke Palmer and the late Kim Porter, saying their experiences with abuse were not met with the same level of public compassion. According to Drea, colorism plays a major part in who the community chooses to believe and uplift. “We need to take [colorism] out of it and educate ourselves, because that blew my mind,” she added. She went on to say that some people are too attached to the public image of entertainers accused of abuse, forgetting that victims often see a side of them the world never will. Despite her criticism, Drea expressed admiration for Cassie’s courage, noting that all victims deserve recognition and support. Cassie’s lawyer, Douglas Wigdor, later praised her strength, saying she continues to inspire others as she works toward healing after Diddy’s recent sentencing.

New Edition is heading on tour and they’re bringing a few friends along for the ride: Boyz II Men and Toni Braxton. The “New Edition Way” tour is expected to kick off on January 26 in Oakland, CA, at the Oakland Arena. The legendary boy bands, with Braxton by their side, will trek through 30 cities. The tour will make pit stops in major cities like Dallas, Brooklyn, Memphis, Atlanta, and more. The announcement came on Friday (Oct.24), in the form of a promotional video that was shared online. Coming in at just two minutes, the video starts with the iconic boy band discussing their residency at the Encore Resort in Las Vegas. However, Ronnie Devoe wanted to take things to the “next level.” Mike Bivins then goes to ring up Boyz II Men’s Nathan Morris. Morris just so happened to have his Philly brethren and groupmates Wanyá Morris and Shawn Stockman by his side. The event works as a “celebration of legacy, soul, and the soundtrack of generations.” The two iconic groups then discussed the idea of them coming together. However, one thing was missing: “feminine energy.” Not long after, Johnny Gil goes to ring up one of R&B’s most iconic singers, Toni Braxton, who didn’t hesitate to join in on the fun. Per the video, New Edition, Boyz II Men, and Toni Braxton won’t be “taking turns,” but performing together on one stage. Tickets for the one-of-a-kind experience will be available on October 31. Produced by the Black Promoters Collective, the event works as a “celebration of legacy, soul, and the soundtrack of generations.” In a press release, Gary Guidry, CEO of the Black Promoters Collective, said, “You’re seeing artists who’ve shaped the culture come together. They celebrate music that continues to stand the test of time.”

Birdman had the crowd buzzing at ComplexCon after throwing a not-so-subtle shot at former Hot Boys member Turk during the Cash Money and No Limit Verzuz event on Saturday, October 25th. While reflecting on his come-up and the early days of Cash Money Records, the New Orleans mogul acknowledged B.G., Lil Wayne, and Juvenile before turning his attention to Turk. “Shout out to Turk, you little b***h. You ain’t here, but f**k you,” Birdman said on stage. “We gon’ f**k with you when we gon’ f**k with you. You heard me? We gon’ f**k with that b***h when we gon’ f**k with him. But that’s another movie.” His comments instantly went viral, sparking new conversations about old Cash Money issues. “Shout out to Turk you a lil b*tch mane but we gone f*ck witchu when we gone f*ck witchu” -Birdman #VERZUZ https://t.co/hTs8qosnCG pic.twitter.com/IYwhm5a8aB — Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod (@big_business_) October 26, 2025 Turk later addressed the moment during an Instagram Live, where he shared his thoughts on the Verzuz showdown. “I’ma keep it all the way real, though. I think No Limit tore they a** up without Wayne there,” he said, appearing unbothered but clearly aware of Birdman’s dig. Their strained relationship goes back years. Turk previously filed a lawsuit related to the Cash Money 30th anniversary tour, focusing on disputes with event promoters and booking agents. Although his legal battle did not directly involve Birdman or the other Hot Boys, the tension surrounding the reunion has been hard to ignore. Juvenile has even shown support for Turk in the past, hinting that not everyone within the group shares the same animosity. The event also brought another layer of drama involving Birdman’s personal life. His longtime partner Toni Braxton was noticeably absent from the show, but her sister Tamar Braxton attended. Fans quickly picked up on the moment, fueling speculation about family tensions and Birdman’s relationships beyond music. One thing is clear: the Verzuz stage brought back more than just nostalgia—it reopened old wounds in the Cash Money camp.