Nelly says that his first date with Ashanti was like taking a “test drive,”  During an interview with People, Nelly shared why he believes his relationship with Ashanti is thriving now. “It’s about the good outweighing the bad,” Nelly said.  “What you thought mattered a lot, once you go through other scenarios, you realize that’s not really as big of a deal as you thought it would be.”  “Or you get something that you thought you was missing, and it still doesn’t compensate or fill a void, and you’re like, ‘Damn, I thought that would mean more,’ but that doesn’t. It’s just growth,” he added. In 2003, Nelly and Ashantly broke up 10 years later. After being separated for another decade but they rekindled their love in September 2023. Three months later, they married in a private ceremony.  Last July, Nelly and Ashanti also welcomed their first child together, Kareem Kenkaide Haynes, a baby boy. “Everybody don’t get a chance to, if you could say, take a test drive,” Nelly continued. “It’s like when people say, ‘You should always test drive a car before you buy it.’ I hate to minimize that because this is real life, so you don’t want it to feel like that.” “We had a chance to test drive a relationship to understand that, ‘Yo, that car was the best thing I had riding around that thing, man. Fire it back up, baby,” he said. In June, the power couple debuted their Peacock reality show reality television show, We Belong Together, where they share their journey back to love. Along with their reality show, Nelly released “Spin the Block” which is inspired by his love for Ashanti. Nelly raped, “When we said goodbye / Guess it wasn’t what we really meant / ‘Cause mile aftеr mile / I keep passing up places we been / And wе kicked up some dust and got stuck in some mud / But we got back to us in the end / Yeah that look in your eyes looks like this old truck / Like we spinnin’ the block today.”

Jim Jones is making headlines after launching a string of bold statements aimed at Nas, questioning the Queensbridge rapper’s influence and staying power. In a series of recent interviews, Jones has been vocal about what he sees as a generational disconnect, claiming that his own solo work stands stronger over time than Nas’ post-Illmatic catalog. Appearing on the Bagfuel podcast, Jones claimed he sparked a rare viral moment for Nas, saying, “What I did for Nas recently probably has never been done in his life. Last time he was in some viral sh*t like this was when he was getting at Jay-Z.” While he hasn’t reached out to Nas directly, he believes his comments have brought renewed attention to the veteran rapper. His critique began during a previous appearance on the Joe & Jada Podcast, where Jones discussed how admiration turned into competition once he entered the industry. “I was a superior Nas fan but when you get into the game you realize your idols be rivals,” he said. “My son can’t tell me one Nas record.” Jones emphasized his own achievements, pointing to solo Billboard entries, gold and platinum plaques, and distancing his success from that of The Diplomats. “Check my track record, then check everybody else’s… I been spanking a lot of this sh*t.” Later, on Nightcap with Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson, Jones admitted Nas was influential early on but faded in relevance. “He had a little bit of a run. […] Nas always came up second to [Jay-Z] and DMX,” he said. Though he praised Illmatic, he added, “He kind of lost me after the movie Belly and s**t like that.” Nas has not responded to the ongoing commentary, but fans online are growing divided, with some calling Jones’ remarks unnecessary and others engaging in the debate.

Rihanna’s father, Ronald Fenty, has passed away at the age of 71 following a battle with multiple health complications. According to a death certificate obtained by TMZ, Fenty died on May 30th at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles due to acute respiratory failure, pancreatic cancer, and aspiration pneumonia, a severe bacterial infection in the lungs. The document also notes other contributing conditions, including acute renal failure and acute tubular necrosis, both of which point to significant kidney damage in the final stages of his illness. Fenty’s death marks a difficult moment for Rihanna, whose relationship with her father has seen many ups and downs over the years. The two were estranged for a long time but eventually found their way back to a better place. In February 2023, Ronald spoke with TMZ and shared his excitement over Rihanna and A$AP Rocky expecting another baby, saying he was thrilled at the thought of being involved in his grandchild’s life. Despite the turbulent history between father and daughter, their eventual reconciliation gave fans hope that they had reached a place of peace. His passing leaves behind a complex legacy, shaped by both personal struggles and moments of family closeness in recent years. Ronald Fenty was 71. Condolences to Rihanna and her family during this time.

Megan Thee Stallion’s music isn’t the only thing that grabs fans’ attention; it’s her superior marketing skills. So it’s no surprise that Blumhouse Productions asked the rapper to help promote the second installment of the M3GAN film series, M3GAN 2.0. In an Instagram post shared on Wednesday (June 24), we see the rapper minding her business while enjoying some leisure before she is interrupted by an unexpected guest: an adorably made but very dangerous AI bot, with whom she shares the same name. “M3GAN X MEGAN THEE STALLION ,” she writes in the post’s caption. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Megan Thee Stallion (@theestallion) Released in 2022, the campy-inspired horror film centers on “a lifelike doll that’s programmed to be a child’s greatest companion and a parent’s greatest ally.” However, after its creator, a brilliant roboticist, Gemma, becomes “the unexpected caretaker of her 8-year-old niece,” Cady, with whom she decides to give a M3GAN prototype. This decision ultimately leads to “unimaginable consequences,” per the film’s synopsis. For the sequel, M3GAN 2.0, we see Gemma, M3GAN, and Cady come together once again to face a newer, more dangerous AI bot named Emilia. The film is set to release on Friday (June 27). Megan Thee Stallion Turns Up The Heat With ‘Love Island USA’ Cameo Megan Thee Stallion’s face has been everywhere lately – in fact, the rapper recently made another cameo on the popular dating show, Love Island USA. Last week, the popular dating series premiered its latest episode, where Megan Thee Stallion stops by to give the cast a few challenges. From twerking to doing the limbo, the Houston native kept the contestants on their toes while hilarity ensued. The “Everything Bigger In Texas” rapper also made it clear who the “Real Hot Girl” was as she flaunted her voluptuous frame, donning a slinky, gold, two-piece from her new swimwear brand, Hot Girl Swim. After the episode’s premiere, in an Instagram Story post, Megan unveiled a new, limited edition one-piece inspired by the series.

Lizzo may be known as a pop diva, but she’s ready to remind folks of her rap skills with a new mixtape. On Tuesday (June 24), Lizzo jumped on Instagram to announce that her latest mixtape, MY FACE HURTS FROM SMILING, is set to release on Friday (June 27). Along with sharing the project’s cover art, which features a photo of Lizzo with her middle fingers raised and smiling faces on them. She also rocks a cropped wife-beater and shorts, flaunting her newly slim figure. In the other part of the post, the Special singer unveiled its tracklist, which features two industry heavyweights and friends of hers: Doja Cat and SZA. Lizzo’s new mixtape features Doja Cat & SZA. Out this Friday. pic.twitter.com/eBz4obROLR — Pop Crave (@PopCrave) June 24, 2025 Lizzo Breaks Silence On Body Changes And Ozempic Talk In other news, Lizzo recently appeared on the Just Trish podcast and opened up about her physical transformation, making it clear that it had nothing to do with trying to fit into Hollywood’s mold. Reflecting on her past, Lizzo revealed she attended major red carpets like the Met Gala at her heaviest and never once felt like her size held her back. Confidence was never the issue. But now, she says, she’s stepped into a new chapter where she genuinely feels the compliments she’s always received. “I actually believe the compliments,” she told host Trisha Paytas. Her recent changes, she explained, weren’t just about dropping weight—it was about taking care of herself from the inside out. That meant prioritizing skin care, dental work, and regular gym sessions. “I’ve tried everything,” Lizzo said when asked about Ozempic, but she stressed that her results weren’t the product of any shortcuts. The hard work, discipline, and consistency are what reshaped not just her body, but her mindset. With a 16% reduction in body fat, Lizzo says the most significant transformation has been internal. Feeling stronger and more in control, she’s found a new kind of power that doesn’t rely on public validation.

On Wednesday (June 25), Fat Joe took to Instagram, issuing a blistering response to a recent lawsuit filed by his former hypeman, Terrance Dixon. “I’ve been tested the last few months- I’ve lost my big brother, my father, my mother, and now I’m fighting against these disgusting lies,” the post begins. “…Please know I will not break and I will never back down,” the post continues. “I’ve had individuals in my circle take my love and kindness for weakness, but how many times must we forgive them? I’ve had people steal from me, grow jealous of me, lie on me. Through it all, me and my family are the ones stuck dealing with the consequences of their bad decisions.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by FAT JOE (@fatjoe) As the lengthy post continues, the Terror Squad rapper says, “If you get fired for doing something wrong, just take the L and live with it. But instead, they plot on your downfall as they watch you move on with your life. They decided to go after one of the things you value the most – your reputation.” Toward the end, Joe makes it clear that he’s “never let anyone on the streets” extort him and states, “so how would I ever let a crooked attorney and a coward ex-hype man extort me??? I’m from the Bronx!” Last week, news broke that a $20 million lawsuit was filed against New York rap legend Fat Joe by former hypeman, Terrance “T.A.” Dixon, accusing the rapper of “coercive labor exploitation, financial fraud, sexual manipulation, violent intimidation, and psychological coercion.” Following the allegations dropping, Fat Joe issued an initial statement via his lawyer, Joe Tacopina, on Thursday, denying the claims. Tacopina told The Independent, addressing Dixon and his attorney, Tyrone Blackburn, that the claims were a “complete fabrication.”

Ebro Darden is known for making bold statements about Hip-Hop, a fact that is well-documented.In the latest episode of Ebro in the Morning, the media personality recognized the contributions of legendary recording artist Nas in an unexpected hot take, stating that Nas has done more for Hip-Hop than any other rapper in history. Ebro’s mentions of Nas are related to the rapper’s company, Mass Appeal, which is preparing to release the highly anticipated sequel to Ghostface Killah’s album, Supreme Clientele 2. “New Ghostface,” said Ebro, following Peter Rosenberg’s announcement of the sequel album. “Shout out to Mass Appeal.” Ebro says Nas has done more for Hip Hop than any other rapper in history pic.twitter.com/ZmpDVpW172 — Navjosh (@Navjosh) June 25, 2025 Ebro’s hot take came after co-hosts Laura Styles and Peter Rosenberg acknowledged the excellent work being done at Mass Appeal right now. Abruptly, he says, “Hot take: Nas has done more for hip hop than any rapper in history.” Rosenberg followed Ebro’s claim, welcoming the debate. “That’s in the convo, right there,” Rosenberg replies. Ebro elaborated further, stating: “He has given back more to hip-hop than any rapper in history.” Nas, arguably one of the greatest lyricists of all time, created a classic catalog of timeless hits throughout the 90s and 2000s, including “If I Ruled The World,” “Street Dreams,” and “One Mic.” By the 2010s, he flipped the script from mic to millions, investing early in tech giants like Coinbase and Ring through QueensBridge Ventures. From bars to boardrooms, he turned hip-hop clout into Silicon Valley cash, building a legacy off equity and vision. In 2013, Nas joined Mass Appeal as investor and creative force, helping relaunch the former hip-hop mag into a multimedia brand. He expanded its reach with a record label and documentaries like Rapture, turning it into a platform that bridges hip-hop roots with bold, future-focused storytelling. Ghostface Killah’s upcoming sequel is a part of a highly publicized music series, titled “Legends Has It.” The Mass Appeal series will drop seven albums in 2025 from icons such as DJ Premier, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, De La Soul, Big L, Mobb Deep, and Nas himself. Honoring hip-hop’s roots and legends, the series celebrates New York’s legacy while spotlighting rap’s most influential voices and timeless impact. Ebro’s Nas claim would receive attention on social media, ranging from fans agreeing with the statement to disagreeing regarding other artists and their contributions. An X user tweeted, “True in the context of championing hiphop globally too. As a rapper, yes, but even more so as an entrepreneur.” Ebro’s comment sparks an ongoing debate that seems never-ending.

Kendrick Lamar’s explosive collaboration with SZA, “Luther,” has crossed the one billion stream threshold on Spotify, hitting the mark faster than any of his previous records. Dropped in November, the track took just seven months to reach the milestone—outpacing the eight-month climb of his viral hit “Not Like Us.” It’s the eleventh time Lamar has joined Spotify’s billion-stream club, a space he already occupies with chart heavyweights like “HUMBLE.,” “Money Trees,” and “All the Stars.” The speed of “Luther’s” ascent underscores Lamar’s unmatched momentum in today’s rap landscape. Beyond its streaming success, “Luther” has dominated the Billboard Hot 100, holding the top slot for 13 straight weeks and leading the hip-hop chart for a staggering 25. The track has become a cultural mainstay, cementing its presence across radio, social media, and live stages alike. Lamar’s BET wins and tour cement his reign Lamar’s recent sweep at the BET Awards added to the victory lap. Returning to his hometown of Los Angeles, he walked away with five wins, including Album of the Year and Best Collaboration—sharing two of the honors with creative partner Dave Free. “I haven’t been here in a long time, but my heart has always been with BET,” he told the crowd. “I’ve made sure they represent our culture authentically, placing me in the heart of the music that resonates with people.” He added, “To my folks in the building and my LA natives in the back, I see you. God first and foremost, to my company pgLang, SZA in the crowd—we’re currently on tour, so don’t miss our show. We’re going to keep this momentum going, and I truly appreciate all of you.” The duo is currently mid-run on their Grand National Tour, closing out North American stops before taking their stage show to stadiums across Europe. The run has drawn massive crowds and critical praise, reinforcing both artists’ cultural and commercial dominance.

The Clipse have opened up about the breakup of the Neptunes. During a recent interview with Popcast, the dynamic spoke about the creative process of their upcoming album, Let God Sort Em Out, which Pharrell produced by himself and his falling out with Chad Hugo. “Absolutely miss Chad. As far as, you know, being on the album,” No Malice said. “But I’ll see Chad in the airport, in the street, at Buffalo Wild Wings, you know, in VA. Whatever they got going on, just hope for the best for that […] Whenever we see each other, it’s always still love. Always.” Pusha T shared that Hugo had been absent on other projects, but that won’t impact their progress. “For me, no, you know, no. Everybody knows my favorite album is Hell Hath No Fury. Pharrell did that alone. That’s it […] Chad’s my guy. I love Chad. Pharrell’s my guy, love Chad, too. We’re brothers, we came up together,” Pusha explained. “But, you know, when you say missing in the music, there is no missing in the music when it comes to the Clipse. And if it’s just P, it don’t matter—we find what we find.” In April 2024, Williams and Hugo were involved in a legal dispute over the group’s name, which HO797 previously reported. “Throughout their over thirty year history, [Hugo] and Williams agreed to, and in fact, have divided all assets,” wrote Hugo’s attorney Kenneth D. Freundlich. “By ignoring and excluding [Hugo] from the any and all applications filed by applicant for the mark ‘The Neptunes,’ applicant has committed fraud in securing the trademarks and acted in bad faith.”

The criminal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs moved closer to its conclusion this week as both the prosecution and defense wrapped their cases. After weeks of testimony and high-profile allegations, the courtroom entered a quieter phase on June 24, with Diddy’s legal team opting not to call any witnesses of their own. Tuesday’s proceedings focused on evidence introduced by the prosecution, including text messages, hotel bookings, and travel itineraries linked to alleged “freak off” parties. Homeland Security agent Joseph Cerciello returned to the stand, facing cross-examination over records that prosecutors say reflect payments to male escorts and coordination with Diddy’s employees. Diddy faces multiple federal charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transporting individuals for prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors have sought to portray him as the central organizer of a network of illicit sexual encounters, allegedly aided by staff and associates. Defense Rests Quickly, Framing Relationships as Consensual Once the prosecution concluded its case, the defense began and ended their presentation within a half-hour. Rather than introducing new witnesses, the defense focused on reframing Diddy’s past relationships as consensual and mutual. To support their argument, Diddy’s lawyers pointed to text messages exchanged between him and former girlfriend Cassie Ventura Fine. One message from February 2017 detailed playful plans for Valentine’s Day, while others contained romantic and sexual language. The defense presented these as evidence of an intimate relationship built on mutual understanding—not coercion. In one of his few direct statements, Diddy informed the court of his decision not to testify. “I made this decision with my legal team,” he told Judge Arun Subramanian, signaling confidence in the case’s direction. Following a short recess, Diddy’s attorneys filed a Rule 29 motion—requesting an acquittal on grounds that the government’s evidence fell short of proving guilt. Defense attorney Alexandra Shapiro argued there was no conspiracy and that staff who may have helped book travel or handle logistics were not privy to personal details of Diddy’s private life. “Mr. Combs tried to keep these relationships and the related activities private,” Shapiro said, distancing employees from the alleged misconduct. The defense continued to reject any suggestion of sex trafficking, pointing instead to instances where Ventura appeared to willingly participate. Shapiro emphasized that allegations of domestic violence—while serious—should not be confused with federal trafficking charges, a distinction the defense has highlighted throughout the trial. With the prosecution’s case formally rested and the defense declining to present additional witnesses, the trial enters its final phase. Closing arguments are expected later this week, as both sides prepare to make their final pitches to the jury. The stakes remain high—not only for Diddy, but for the broader conversation unfolding around power, consent, and accountability in the entertainment world.