Norway’s Erling Haaland is dominating more than the FIFA World Cup. The soccer superstar has also landed a surprise hit on the music charts after a decade-old rap song resurfaced and climbed to No. 1 on Spotify in his home country. Long before becoming one of the world’s most feared strikers, Haaland was part of the rap trio Flow Kingz alongside two of his Norway under-17 teammates. The group released “Kygo Jo” on YouTube nearly 10 years ago, giving fans an early glimpse of the future football star’s playful side. .@Erling being a no. 1 artist in Norway was not on my bingo card for 2026 https://t.co/SYrJ6oWAtH pic.twitter.com/71lOWEce1C — Kygo (@KygoMusic) July 9, 2026 The track found new life after Norwegian DJ and producer Kygo made a public promise before Norway’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Brazil. Kygo vowed to remix “Kygo Jo” if Haaland found the back of the net. Haaland delivered in spectacular fashion. The Manchester City striker scored twice in Norway’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Brazil, sending his country into the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in its history. True to his word, Kygo released the remix shortly afterward. Norway’s Erling Haaland’s 2016 Rap Song, “Kygo Jo,” Resurfaced, Reach Top Of Spotify Charts The response was immediate. “Kygo Jo” surged to No. 1 on Spotify’s Norway chart, with Kygo sharing the milestone on social media as the remix gained momentum across streaming platforms. The viral success highlights Haaland’s growing cultural influence beyond soccer. His performances on the pitch have already made him a national hero. Now, his forgotten rap career has become part of Norway’s World Cup celebration. What started as a lighthearted challenge between Kygo and Haaland quickly evolved into one of the tournament’s most unexpected crossover moments. Fans embraced the nostalgia, helping introduce Flow Kingz and “Kygo Jo” to a new audience. Attention now turns to Norway’s quarterfinal showdown with England. Another memorable performance from Haaland could keep his nation’s FIFA World Cup dream alive while giving “Kygo Jo” an even bigger boost. For now, Haaland is winning on two stages. He’s leading Norway’s historic World Cup run while proving that an old rap song can become a chart-topping anthem when sports, music and perfect timing collide.

Sean ‘Jay-Z’ Carter kicked off his “Reasonable Doubt” 30th anniversary concert series with a new look and brought out his family at his three-night Yankee Stadium run. On Friday (Jun 10), before Jay-Z hit the stage, he opened up his show with a striking visual of Beyoncé cutting off his locks. In the cinematic clip, Beyonce uses clippers to cut off Jay-Z locks, which have been staple part of his presentation for nearly a decade. The two are seen sitting in an empty set of blue bleachers. Flames and smokes filled the staudim’s screen right before Jay-Z emerges sporting a fresh low-cut Caesar, instantly sending social media into a frenzy. Jay-Z starts the 30th anniversary show with Beyoncé cutting his hair pic.twitter.com/chKzaWKbDC — Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod (@big_business_) July 11, 2026 The performance marked the opening night of Jay-Z’s celebration honoring the 30th anniversary of his groundbreaking 1996 debut album, “Reasonable Doubt,” an album that transformed him from Brooklyn lyricist into one of hip-hop’s most influential figures. Jay-Z choosing to debut his new look at his homebase, in celebration of his debut album alongside his family signifies a full-circle moment for the rap veteran. Beyoncé and Jay on stage full performance pic.twitter.com/O2KL6zy3Xv — ѕσℓαηgє (@thatssoyoncee) July 11, 2026 do y’all hear how she sounds?!? pic.twitter.com/sNf91Urc0W — faith ♡‧₊˚ ꕤ (@stuckinrem) July 11, 2026 The night was filled with surprises including Beyoncé joining her husband to sing Mary J. Blige’s feature in “Can’t Knock the Hustle.” Blue Ivy, 14,  joined the show as well, playing piano during “Feelin’ It” and earning loud cheers from the crowd. The surprises didn’t stop with family. Jay-Z also brought out fellow NYC collaborator Memphis Bleek and mentor Jaz-O. Harlem’s Alicia Keys joined Jay-Z for an “Empire State of Mind” performance. Nas also joined the Roc-A-Fella Records executive for a medley of “The World Is Yours” and “NY State of Mind.” Jay Z and Nas absolutely killin it! Brooklyn Queens pic.twitter.com/IEOoXs3Ir2 — ALLDAYNYC (@AllDayNYC) July 11, 2026 The performance on Saturday (July 11)  will be dedicated to his 2001 album “The Blueprint,” while Sunday’s (July 12) finale show will offer fans an extended setlist that spans his entire catalog rather than focusing on a single specific album.

Legendary R&B singer Bobby Brown’s 1988 debut album, Don’t Be Cruel, which featured classic hits “Every Little Step,” “Rock With You,” and “Tender Roni,” turns 35. Nearly four decades after changing the sound of contemporary R&B, Brown says his landmark 1988 album, Don’t Be Cruel, still feels as alive as ever. As the multiplatinum classic celebrates its 35th anniversary in 2026, Brown reflected on why the album remains a defining part of his career. For the New Edition icon, the music has never faded because it remains at the center of his live performances. “It really feels more like 20 years… because I constantly perform these songs,” Brown said. Bobby Brown is commemorating more than 35 years since the release of his iconic 1988 solo album Don’t Be Cruel, a project that sold over 12 million copies worldwide and delivered enduring hits including “My Prerogative,” “Every Little Step,” and the title track. Reflecting on… pic.twitter.com/8WRXIkJ6em — Blackish Press (@blackishpress) July 10, 2026 Released in 1988, “Don’t Be Cruel” produced a string of era-defining hits, including “My Prerogative,” “Every Little Step,” “Roni,” “Don’t Be Cruel” and “Rock Wit’cha.” Those records helped establish Brown as one of R&B’s biggest solo stars while influencing generations of singers who followed. Brown said the album’s lasting impact comes from the connection he continues to share with audiences. “It [is] just pure energy… My energy and the energy of the people… It just makes me feel good,” he said. “I have so much gratitude for people loving that album.” Legendary R&B Singer Bobby Brown Remembers Debut Album, Don’t Be Cruel, As It Turns 35 The singer also recalled the unexpected moment when he realized “Don’t Be Cruel” had become more than a successful release. Brown pointed to his widely publicized arrest in Georgia, saying the incident brought even greater attention to the album. “Unfortunately, it would have to be the time I got arrested in Georgia,” Brown said. “That was unfortunate but that’s when the record actually went viral… Everybody started buying the album.” Although he described the experience as difficult, Brown said the surge in public interest confirmed the album’s cultural reach. “That’s when I knew that this was something special, coming from my heart and from the producers [Babyface and L.A. Reid] that I worked with,” he said. Today, Don’t Be Cruel remains one of R&B’s defining albums, celebrated for its blend of new jack swing, pop and soul. For Brown, its legacy is measured not only by its commercial success but by the generations of fans who continue to sing every word, proving the album’s energy has endured well beyond its original release.

Atlanta rapper Peewee Longway has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, resolving a criminal case stemming from a 2024 investigation into alleged drug trafficking activities. The sentence follows Longway’s May guilty plea under a plea agreement that avoided trial. U.S. prosecutors had recommended a prison term between 10 and 14 years, while defense counsel sought the low end of the advisory range. The district court ultimately imposed a 10-year sentence. Peewee Longway has been sentenced to 120 months in prison after pleading guilty to drug conspiracy and firearm charges. On Thursday (July 9), a federal judge in Georgia handed down the Atlanta rapper’s sentence, according to court documents obtained by XXL. Peewee was given 10… pic.twitter.com/S2FigClpdG — XXL Magazine (@XXL) July 9, 2026 Federal authorities launched the investigation after executing a search warrant at one of Longway’s Atlanta recording studios in September 2024. According to court filings, investigators recovered approximately 3,000 fentanyl pills, six firearms and electronic evidence that prosecutors alleged linked the rapper to narcotics distribution. Prosecutors also cited additional firearms recovered during a subsequent search of Longway’s residence. Court records further referenced text messages that allegedly documented efforts to distribute controlled substances, as well as an alleged transaction involving four kilograms of methamphetamine connected to activity at the recording studio. Atlanta Rap Star Peewee Longway Sentenced To 10 Years In Federal Prison The government argued that the quantity of drugs and the presence of multiple firearms supported a substantial custodial sentence. Defense attorneys urged the court to impose the minimum sentence requested by prosecutors. They argued that a 10-year term appropriately reflected the circumstances of the case. The court adopted the defense’s requested sentence, imposing the lowest term within the government’s recommended range. The judgment concludes a federal prosecution that centered on physical evidence, digital communications, and the defendant’s guilty plea. By accepting responsibility, Longway resolved the charges without proceeding to trial. Absent future post-conviction relief or other sentence modifications. The 10-year federal sentence is expected to keep the rapper in Bureau of Prisons custody for a substantial period. It brings a significant chapter of the criminal proceedings to a close.

Wu-Tang Clan’s Ol’ Dirty Bastard was known as a wild boy, with artists like Hip-Hop legend LL Cool J sharing countless stories about the late Staten Island legend. During a recent conversation with Greg Nice of Nice & Smooth, LL shared the story after Greg reflected on Ol’ Dirty Bastard’s admiration for him and Busta Rhymes. According to Greg Nice, ODB once credited both artists with helping shape the unconventional style that later became his signature. The conversation prompted LL to revisit an incident he said unfolded at New York City’s iconic Chung King Studios. “I said, ‘What’s wrong?’” LL recalled, describing a phone call from the late music executive Chris Lighty. “He said, ‘For some reason, Ol’ Dirty Bastard came in here and broke all your plaques and pissed on them.’ I said, ‘What’d I do?’” Rather than respond with anger, LL said he chose a different path. Hip-Hop Legend LL Cool J Shares Wild Story About Wu-Tang Clan’s Ol’ Dirty Bastard Peeing On His Plaques “I loved him ever since,” he said, laughing off what could have become one of hip-hop’s strangest feuds. The story captures the unpredictable spirit that defined Ol’ Dirty Bastard throughout his career. The Brooklyn rapper built a reputation for behavior that blurred the line between performance, provocation and genuine spontaneity. Whether crashing the 1998 Grammy Awards to proclaim, “Wu-Tang is for the children,” or arriving in a limousine to collect a welfare check, ODB consistently turned real life into hip-hop folklore. LL admitted he never understood why Ol’ Dirty Bastard targeted his plaques. The mystery remains unsolved, adding another layer to the Wu-Tang member’s enduring legend. More than two decades after his death, Ol’ Dirty Bastard remains one of rap’s most singular personalities. Stories from peers continue to surface, revealing moments that are equal parts unbelievable and authentic. LL Cool J’s latest recollection reinforces that legacy. It offers another glimpse into the chaotic brilliance that made ODB one of hip-hop’s most unforgettable figures.

HBCUs have long been the architects of culture, style, and athletic pride. But their baseball programs have historically flown under the mainstream radar. Major League Baseball and Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. set out to change that reality when they launched the annual HBCU Swingman Classic.  ​Now, Nike is cementing that legacy into sneaker lore. Dropping today to coincide with the showcase at Citizens Bank Park, the iconic Air Griffey Max 1 is getting a new look.  The premium, story-driven makeover that bridges “The Kid’s” legendary Seattle nostalgia with the vibrant future of Black college baseball. ​The execution on this silhouette is nothing short of masterclass. Dressed in a striking Midnight Navy, Team Gold, and Summit White palette, the colorway draws direct aesthetic inspiration from the uniforms the players wear on the diamond. A deep navy nubuck anchors the shoe’s aggressive, thick-strapped overlay, allowing the metallic gold accents to pop beautifully across the rope laces, branding, and the famous “24” ankle strap. View this post on Instagram ​In an interview with Front Office Sports, Grieffey spoke about getting Black kids to return to baseball. GRIFFEY WANTS BLACK KIDS TO RETURN TO BASEBALL ​“I’m a fortunate guy. My dad played in the MLB. And I was able to go in the locker room and have accessibility that 99.9% of the kids in this country don’t get. You look at the decline of Black baseball players over the years, and a lot of it is due to accessibility, resources, and exposure,” Griffey said. “These kids don’t have that.” View this post on Instagram ​”My dad, mom, and I have always given back. And to give back to the community that isn’t seen as much as it should be,” Grieffey continued. “You talk about baseball being an athletic sport, everyone needs to run, hit, throw, and catch. It takes time and patience and in certain situations, family dynamics. Some kids don’t have that so they switch to football and basketball. I’m trying to bring them back to baseball. ​The sneaker will be available for purchase on the SNKRS app at 7 a.m. PT on Friday, July 10, and a limited run of Air Griffey Max 1 cleats also will drop at that time as a surprise.

NBA YoungBoy has once again sparked conversation around his relationship with Future after posting a series of heated Instagram Story clips on July 10, the same day Future released his latest album, The Real Me. The posts came shortly after YoungBoy took a more reflective tone during an Instagram Live appearance with Offset. During the live, he spoke about past mistakes and offered an apology to Future. The contrast between those remarks and his later messages quickly drew attention from fans. Many of them questioned whether tensions between the two artists had resurfaced. The latest wave of speculation began when YoungBoy shared a video featuring sharp lyrics that appeared to be aimed at another rapper releasing music that night. Future was not mentioned by name. However, the timing of the post led many online to believe the comments were connected to the Atlanta artist’s album rollout. In the video, YoungBoy rapped, “B**** you flopped with your b**** ass, f*** you your old ass b**** YOU A H**,” before continuing with criticism toward an unnamed figure and warning listeners not to “gas it up.” The remarks quickly circulated. Consequently, fans debated whether the lyrics represented a direct shot at Future. The exchange was notable because it followed a noticeably different message from YoungBoy earlier that day. During his conversation with Offset, the rapper admitted there were moments when he had been “crashing out.” He also thanked Offset for his support and addressed his issues with Future publicly. His comments suggested a willingness to move forward. This made the later posts appear more complicated to listeners following the situation. View this post on Instagram Future’s Solo Return Rekindles NBA YoungBoy Tensions Future, meanwhile, entered the conversation while celebrating the release of The Real Me. The album arrived July 10 through Freebandz and Epic Records. The 22-track album marks his first solo studio release since 2022’s I Never Liked You. It features no guest appearances, a decision that keeps the focus entirely on his own performances. The project follows one of Future’s strongest recent stretches, including the Billboard 200 No. 1 albums We Don’t Trust You and We Still Don’t Trust You with Metro Boomin in 2024. As both rappers continue their respective runs, the latest exchange has reignited discussion about their relationship. The unresolved tensions continue to capture fans’ attention.

The family of 18-year-old Mississippi native Nolan Xavier Wells has requested an independent autopsy as investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding Wells’ death, according to civil rights attorney Ben Crump. Crump said the independent examination will be conducted in Washington, D.C., after Wells’ family raised concerns about the official investigation into his disappearance during a Fourth of July trip to Horn Island, a remote barrier island off Mississippi’s Gulf Coast. “He was a good kid. Was beloved. He was a college athlete. He had everything going for him,” Crump told ABC News. “And so to go on that island … and then not to come back is what is concerning.” Wells traveled to Horn Island with friends on July 4. Authorities said he did not return to the mainland with the group. A body believed to be Wells was recovered on July 6 after a multiagency search. Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter has said investigators believe Wells remained on the island after the others departed. Family of Mississippi’s Nolan Xavier Wells Request Independent Autopsy, Per Attorney Ben Crump “They left Horn Island and went back without Nolan,” Ledbetter said. “From what we understand, he chose to stay there.” Authorities have said they believe Wells drowned and have not identified evidence of foul play. However, the sheriff’s office has emphasized that the investigation remains active as detectives continue reviewing evidence and interviewing witnesses. Crump said the family disputes the preliminary assessment and continues seeking answers. “Investigators continue to tell the family that, ‘We don’t see any evidence of any foul play,’” Crump said. “Even though you have students who recorded an altercation while they were on the boats.” According to Crump, Wells’ cellphone left the island with his friends and contained deleted messages when it was later returned to the family. He also said Wells’ father described his son as “an elite athlete” and a capable swimmer, making the family skeptical that he accidentally drowned. “They’re just not accepting that Nolan drowned accidentally,” Crump said. Meanwhile, investigators continue urging anyone who visited Horn Island on July 4 to provide photographs, videos or information that could help establish what happened during Wells’ final hours.

Hip-hop mogul Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, is taking the “BULLY” era back to the stage with another major stadium date, announcing a performance at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, on Aug. 28. The newly revealed concert expands Ye’s growing 2026 live schedule as he continues building momentum behind his latest album, “BULLY.” Fans can now register for ticket access through the official rollout, with more tour dates expected to follow. YELIVE CONCERT NEW ORLEANSCAESARS SUPERDOME AUGUST 28TH pic.twitter.com/7lT8ETqNdH — Kurrco (@Kurrco) July 9, 2026 The New Orleans stop arrives ahead of Ye’s previously announced hometown performances at Chicago’s Soldier Field on Sept. 3 and Sept. 4. Together, the stadium shows mark one of the rapper and producer’s biggest touring campaigns in recent years, signaling a renewed focus on live performances after spending much of the past few years releasing new music. “BULLY” has already become one of Ye’s strongest commercial releases of the decade. The album opened at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 after moving 152,000 equivalent album units in its first week. It also made an immediate impact on the Billboard Hot 100, with 16 of its 18 tracks debuting on the chart. Hip-Hop Mogul Ye (Kanye West) Set For New Orleans Concert On August 28 At Caesars Superdome The album’s commercial success has fueled anticipation for Ye’s return to the concert stage. Fans have spent months speculating about additional stops, and the New Orleans announcement suggests a broader tour could be on the horizon. Known for turning arena and stadium performances into immersive productions, Ye has built a reputation for blending music, fashion and striking visual concepts. His concerts often feature elaborate staging and career-spanning set lists, making each appearance a major event for fans. The Caesars Superdome show adds another high-profile venue to the “BULLY” campaign and reinforces Ye’s enduring influence on hip-hop culture. Despite years of controversy, the Grammy-winning artist continues to command attention whenever he announces new music or live performances. With New Orleans now locked into the schedule and Chicago next in line, Ye’s 2026 comeback continues to gather momentum. As excitement grows around the “BULLY” era, fans are watching closely to see which city the hip-hop icon will announce next.

Young Thug reportedly ordered a retail store manager to turn off a song featuring Gunna. The incident occurred while Young Thug was in Manhattan preparing for a highly anticipated YSL label showcase at Irving Plaza. Witnesses said the Atlanta rapper, whose legal name is Jeffery Williams, was browsing in a local storefront when the track “Dollaz On My Head” began playing over the store’s audio system. The 2020 hit, which features both artists, apparently struck a cord with Williams, who promptly requested that the manager turn the music off. The exchange serves as the latest confirmation that the relationship between the two frequent collaborators remains fractured following the high-profile YSL Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act case. While both men were initially arrested together and held in custody, Gunna, born Sergio Kitchens, was released in late 2022 after entering an Alford plea. The move by Kitchens led to widespread speculation within the music industry and among fans that he had cooperated with authorities to secure his freedom. Williams remained in custody for a significantly longer period, eventually securing his release through a complex plea agreement that ended one of the longest trials in Georgia history. Since regaining his freedom, Williams has distanced himself from Kitchens both personally and professionally. Industry insiders said the Irving Plaza incident illustrates that despite their shared history of chart-topping hits, the bridge between the two rappers may be permanently burned. The rift has divided the hip-hop community, with fans debating whether the duo will ever reconcile to produce new music. While Kitchens has continued to release commercially successful projects following his release, critics have noted a shift in the creative output and public reception of both artists since the legal proceedings concluded. Supporters of Williams have largely remained loyal to the YSL founder, who is expected to appear on new material with other collaborators, including Future, in the coming days. For now, the “King of Slime” appears more interested in looking forward than listening to the hits of his past.