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.

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

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.

In 2022, Kendrick Lamar reached a defining moment in his career, earning his first Emmy for his role in the Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show. Sharing the stage with Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and 50 Cent, Lamar was honored in the category of Outstanding Variety Special (Live). The accolade marked a milestone for hip-hop, underscoring the genre’s growing influence within mainstream entertainment. A year later, Lamar once again made history with his performance at the Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show, drawing 133.5 million viewers. The number surpassed Michael Jackson’s 1993 record of 133.4 million, cementing Lamar’s place as a cultural force capable of commanding unprecedented attention on a global stage. During the show, Lamar delivered a dynamic medley, featuring hits such as “Humble,” “DNA,” and “Euphoria.” Among the standout moments was a powerful live rendition of “Not Like Us,” a track recently spotlighted in a lawsuit filed by Drake against Universal Music Group. Lamar’s performance blended theatricality with precision, offering fans a vivid glimpse into both his catalogue and his artistic evolution. Lamar’s Emmy Win and Chart Streak The presentation earned Lamar his second Emmy, this time for Outstanding Music Direction, an honor he shared with his musical director, Tony Russell. The performance also garnered nominations for Outstanding Choreography for Variety/Reality, Outstanding Directing in a Variety Special, and Outstanding Variety Special (Live), reflecting the careful craftsmanship behind the production. Beyond these accolades, Lamar continues to set benchmarks in contemporary music. Reports indicate he is the only rapper this year to have a song appear on the Billboard Hot 100 each week. Tracks from his latest album—including “Luther” featuring SZA, “TV Off,” “Peekaboo,” and “Not Like Us”—have driven this streak, reaffirming his reputation as one of hip-hop’s most influential and visionary voices.

Meek Mill is moving to reassert control over his career, announcing that he is seeking $5 million to fund a new round of projects that include a book, an album, and a short film. The Philadelphia rapper has used social media in recent weeks to voice his frustration with the industry, arguing that artists who step outside the traditional label system face steep and often unfair hurdles. “I need $5M in funding for a book, album, and short film,” Meek wrote in a post on X. In the same message, he took aim at the structure of record deals, saying, “These label deals are not looking fair at all… they have essentially tarnished the game, but I’m poised to revitalize it! Why can’t I receive the same level of investment as tech initiatives in rap culture?” He went further, pointing to banks and financial institutions as gatekeepers that should be challenged by artists. Sharing a clip from radio host DeDe In The Morning, Meek reflected on the deep imprint of Black culture across American life. “Why, as independent music artists, are we not engaging with banks when everything in the music industry ultimately circles back to financial institutions? We possess total control—let’s take action! Is it truly so difficult to secure funding outside of a record label in America? It’s perplexing, to say the least.” Meek Mill turns scrutiny into a blueprint for independence The rapper’s transition to independence has been under sharper scrutiny since his split from Roc Nation earlier this year. That scrutiny grew louder after Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones, in a lawsuit against Diddy, made allegations touching on Meek’s private life. Meek rejected the claims outright in a lengthy statement online. “I have a 14-year-old son. I refuse to let unfounded rumors tarnish my name or manhood… My son has had to confront such negativity at school! This is part of a silent war against black men, and we must unite!” Meek presented that resolve as its own form of strength. “I am a real-life KING. They’ve realized I can uplift entire communities just by showing up… I can mitigate street conflicts without threats… I can mobilize billions to challenge the system… turning $0 into $100 million. This is why I played it low-key; someone caught on!” His call for financial autonomy underscores a larger shift in hip-hop. Increasingly, artists are questioning the value of conventional label deals, instead pushing for the kind of investment and independence that Meek Mill is demanding as he turns the page on the next stage of his career. I need 5m in funding for book.. album and short film …These label deals not looking fair at all… they ruined the game basically … but I can reboot the whole thing! Why I can’t get the same attention as a tech investment in rap wthelly — MeekMill (@MeekMill) September 8, 2025

In June, Cardi B confirmed her relationship with Stefon Diggs, opening a new chapter less than a year after finalizing her divorce from Offset. The announcement quickly drew attention, particularly after Offset appeared to weigh in online. Following Diggs’ debut with the New England Patriots, Offset posted to Instagram, calling the wide receiver’s performance “Trash,” punctuated with a laughing emoji. Cardi, for her part, leaned in with support. She shared a clip of Diggs pulling down a pass from rookie quarterback Drake Maye, adding an emphatic caption: “Come on Eight!!!!!” Diggs closed the game with six receptions for 57 yards, a performance solid enough to fuel discussion both on and off the field. The split-screen commentary only gained traction when LiveBitez reshared the posts on Instagram. Fans poured in with reactions, many rushing to Cardi’s corner. “Stefon got the love of your life, more solid career, more money, more handsome,” one wrote. Another turned their criticism on Offset: “So when are y’all going to finally admit that he is super corny for this continuous behavior?” The exchanges underscored how closely Cardi’s personal life remains intertwined with her public image. Behind the Relationship Cardi B and Diggs went public in June after months of speculation. She had filed for divorce from Offset the previous summer and has since spoken candidly about navigating relationships in the glare of celebrity. In a recent interview with Billboard, she admitted, “It was very tough, but it is what it is. It’s tough hiding. It’s tough dating in your 30s too, but I like him. I love him today.” Her remarks reflected both the difficulty of starting over and her willingness to be blunt about it. On the professional front, Cardi is preparing to release her second studio album, Am I The Drama?, due September 19. The project comes more than seven years after her Grammy-winning debut, Invasion of Privacy, marking a pivotal return for an artist whose career has long blended personal turbulence with artistic success. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Watch Live Bitez (@livebitez)

Doja Cat made a striking statement at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards in New York City on September 7th. The “Jealous Type” rapper arrived in a lime green and gray checkered minidress adorned with hot pink jewels, but it was her bold lipstick moment that stole the show. While posing for photos on the red carpet, Doja applied MAC’s “Lady Danger” red lipstick to her already bright lips. She then shocked onlookers by biting into the lipstick, chewing it, and swallowing it, creating one of the most talked-about moments of the evening. I saw @DojaCat eating lipstick, so now I’m going to start eating lipstick #VMAs pic.twitter.com/4hSHVQ9mg6 — MTV (@MTV) September 7, 2025 The stunt was also a showcase for Doja’s latest role as global ambassador for MAC Cosmetics. She shared her excitement with InStyle, saying, “I’ve been a MAC girl forever, and now I get to take that love to the global stage. Makeup is my paint, my armor, my way of creating characters—and MAC has always stood for that kind of artistry and freedom.” She added, “We’re going to push it even further and make people see beauty in a whole new way.” Beyond her work with MAC, Doja Cat has had a busy year. She received a nomination at the VMAs in the Best K-Pop Song category for her collaboration with Lisa and Raye on “Born Again.” She is also preparing to release her new album Vie later this month, continuing to develop the sound and style she has been refining over time. In a New York Times interview, she reflected on her new music chapter, saying, “I’m doing what I was perfecting in the beginning. I’m doing what I know I know how to do.” Doja will also perform at the awards ceremony, which was hosted by LL Cool J and included performances from Sabrina Carpenter, sombr, Mariah Carey, and Jelly Roll.

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.

Singer Montell Jordan, the voice behind the 1995 hit, “This Is How We Do It,” recently announced his prostate cancer has returned. On Wednesday (Sept.3), Jordan sat down with the Today show to share the devastating news. In 2024, Jordan was diagnosed with prostate cancer, and despite having his prostate removed, the singer tells the outlet that his cancer has not only returned but also spread. “I always imagined I would be telling my prostate cancer story from the other side of prostate cancer because I had a radical prostatectomy surgery,” Jordan tells Today. “My prostate was removed. There were clear margins.” “I’m trying to give a template for people that get diagnosed with this,” Jordan says “Close to a year post-prostatectomy, I still need to go back and have additional treatments because it’s [been] detected that there is still cancer,” Jordan continued. In an effort to combat the cancer, the singer will undergo a “targeted radiation” treatment program. The gold would be to treat his lymph nodes as well as “take home blockers that stop the growth of the cancer.” “It is a seven-and-a-half week interruption of life to make sure that I have a longer life,” he added. The singer also told Today that he plans to document his cancer journey with a documentary in collaboration with nonprofit organization Zero Prostate Cancer. The project is set to be released next year. “I’m trying to give a template for people that get diagnosed with this to … know they have options available to them,” Jordan noted when asked about the forthcoming film. “It’s okay to cry…It’s okay to shake your fist at God…It’s okay to navigate and do what you need to do, but doing nothing is not an option. I never knew there was such a thing as being a two-time cancer survivor, so that’s the journey that I’m on right now.”

On Thursday (Sept.4), TMZ reported that Juan Raymond Harper, also known to the online masses as “Rolling Ray,” had died unexpectedly at only 28 years old. Not long after the news broke, fans and celebrities, like Cardi B, hopped online to honor his memory. “Rolling Ray was a menace lmaoo… but he changed soo much and became so positive,” she wrote in an X post. “I know that soul made it to heaven…You will truly be missed BIG PURRRR!!!” Along with being the face behind dozens of popular memes, Rolling Ray also starred in several shows on the Zeus network, like Bobby I Love You, Purrr. In addition to Ray’s mother confirming the news to the outlet, the Zeus network also confirmed the passing with an Instagram post, writing: “Gone way too soon. #RestInPeace to the BIG hearted, most Raw, & #Zeus Star #RaymondHarper aka @iamrollingray.” Rolling Ray was a menace lmaoo… but he changed soo much and became so positive. I know that soul made it to heaven…You will truly be missed BIG PURRRR!!! — Cardi B (@iamcardib) September 4, 2025 In other news, Cardi B has been in full rollout mode since announcing the release date of her forthcoming album, Am I The Drama? Unlike with Invasion of Privacy, the rapper is stepping into a new era; however, it’s much darker than expected. Aside from the album’s eerie cover, the usage of crows, which are often a symbol of death, has even been reflected in her recent fashion choices. Last month, at Schiaparelli’s Paris Couture Week, she made quite the entrance, rocking a live crow as an outfit accessory. Cardi B recently sat down with Zane Lowe on Apple Music and noted the album’s dark “energy” stems from “something dying inside” her. “I really like to do my things very colorful. I’m a very colorful person. But it’s just like this past year, I feel like something kind of was dying in me.” “My humbleness, me trying so much to be unproblematic, me trying to avoid drama, avoid the disses, avoid the b*tches, avoid the talks, it’s like that sh*t is dying, that’s dying out in me,” she added.