Is there anything that Queen Bey can’t do? Whether it’s sparking online debates or shattering Grammy records, Beyoncé has more than proven herself worthy of all her accolades. So it’s no surprise that when Billboard released its “The 75 Best R&B Artists of All Time” list, Beyoncé ranked high among her peers. Landing at No. 4 on the list, the Renaissance singer follows behind icons like Michael Jackson (No. 3), Aretha Franklin (No. 2), and Stevie Wonder (No. 1). The late, legendary, singer and diva, Whitney Houston, rounded out the group at No.5. The criteria for ranking included “vocal prowess, body of work, career longevity, industry achievements, game-changing influence, and enduring generational/cultural impact.” “Billboard’s Greatest Pop Star of the 21st Century also happens to be one of the Best R&B Artists of All Time. In fact, it’s her dedication to her R&B foundation that has helped her become one of music’s most innovative, impactful, and impressive artists,” the outlet wrote. “The 35-time Grammy-winning Houstonian first hit the Billboard charts as the lead vocalist of Destiny’s Child, the girl group in which she honed her now-signature staccato rap-singing, a vocal approach that can be heard in virtually every contemporary R&B song today.” Beyoncé has been named the #4 ‘Best R&B Singer of All-Time’ by Billboard staff. pic.twitter.com/bFcg8myACW — Pop Tingz (@ThePopTingz) June 19, 2025 Other notable artists included in the list include: James Brown (No.6), Prince (No.7), Mariah Carey (No.8), R.Kelly (No.9), and Marvin Gaye (No.10). Last December, Billboard crowned Queen Bey as the greatest pop star of the 21st century. The publication said she’s “the century’s biggest pop star based on her full 25 years of influence, evolution, and impact.” “The reasons why Beyoncé captured the top spot on our list were beyond numerous. Ranging from her 25 years of timeless albums and singles to her incalculable industry impact and influence on other artists, to her peerless raw talents as a singer and performer.” Billboard said. “Few artists this period can match her in any of the most critical basic categories of pop stardom. Commercial success, performance abilities, critical acclaim and accolades, industry influence, iconic cultural moments – and absolutely no one can equal her in all of them,” Billboard continued.

Lil Wayne has always been credited for launching Drake’s career, but now his son is stirring up conversation with a bold statement. In a recent livestream, Lil Novi, Wayne’s son, claimed his father deserves all the credit, not only for discovering Drake but also for writing much of his lyrics. When asked to pick between his dad and Drake, Novi made his choice clear: “My dad wrote most of [Drake’s] sh*t,” he said. “If it wasn’t for my pops, there wouldn’t be no Drake.” This comment quickly caught attention, sparking debates online about whether Novi’s claim holds any truth or is just hype. The remarks also revived memories of the ghostwriting controversy from 2015, when Meek Mill accused Drake of using Quentin Miller to write parts of If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late. But Novi pushed the narrative further, insisting Lil Wayne was the creative force behind albums like Take Care and Views. It’s important to note that Novi wasn’t even born when Drake’s breakthrough mixtape So Far Gone dropped in 2009. This fact has led many to doubt whether Novi truly knows the full story or is just seeking attention online. Regardless, Novi’s claim adds fuel to the ongoing debate about authorship in hip-hop. Drake and Lil Wayne have shared a close working relationship for over a decade, but these comments have reignited conversations about ghostwriting and authenticity in the rap world. So far, neither Drake nor Lil Wayne has publicly addressed the statement, but fans are eager to see if this will spark a bigger discussion.

The RZA recently shared that he would take GZA over any MC in a rap battle. Appearing on the latest episode of the Drink Champs podcast, Prince Rakeem was asked to choose between GZA and Nas, a close colleague and friend. Without hesitation, he picked The Genius. “For MC-ing, my favorite, best MC is the GZA,” RZA said. “I don’t think no MC could beat the GZA. I think what GZA has written for Hip-Hop, no other MC can compare.” The RZA went on to include Rakim as one of the greatest ever, but no one can touch his fellow Wu-Tang Clan member. “Even if you go look at Rakim, who is one of the greatest, to most people, one of the greatest. Nas is one of the greatest. If you go look at what GZA offered to hip hop, look at what he spawned.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by REVOLT (@revolttv) “He spawned me, Meth (Method Man), Rae (Raekwon), Ghost (Ghostface Killah) — these are all from GZA, the enlightener,” he continued. According to RZA, what the GZA has brought to hip-hop will last forever, and no one has yet to surpass it.   “What the Wu offered lyrically is what no one has mastered yet,” Bobby Digital boasted. In 1991, GZA released his debut, Words from the Genius, on Cold Chillin Records. He would depart from the after soon afterwards. In 1995, he released his sophomore album, Liquid Swords, which was hailed as an instant classic. Along with being a part of the Wu projects, GZA has released several more acclaimed albums and LPs.

Just in time for summer, Drake shows off his toned-up body in a recent post that’s been circulating online. On June 14, Drake shared a photo to his Instagram Story of him hitting the gym, flexing off his big guns, while rocking an all-black Nike outfit with white Nike sneakers — which shouldn’t be surprising since he’s been collaborating with the brand since 2013. The rapper also shared a post on his story of attending a friend’s wedding, writing “Congratulations” as he stood next to a picture of the couple. Instagram.com/champagnepapi Drake Becomes First Artist With 10 Diamond Singles Last month, Drake just hit another milestone, and this one puts him in a league of his own after the RIAA officially confirmed that the Toronto superstar has earned his 10th Diamond certification, more than any other artist in history. “Drake has the most RIAA Diamond Certifications of any artist, ever,” the organization shared on social media, alongside a graphic displaying all 10 of his Diamond plaques. Two of his fan favorites, “Hold On, We’re Going Home” and his breakout hit “Best I Ever Had,” are the latest tracks to reach Diamond status, meaning they’ve sold over 10 million units each in the U.S. Drake’s elite Diamond collection also includes “God’s Plan,” “Hotline Bling,” “One Dance,” “Life Is Good” with Future, “No Guidance” with Chris Brown, “Love Me” with Lil Wayne, and Travis Scott’s “SICKO MODE.” And he’s not done yet. “Nice for What,” from his 2018 album Scorpion, is already 9x Platinum and inching closer to Diamond. This puts Drizzy ahead of country legend Garth Brooks and Post Malone, who each hold nine Diamond certifications. Drake is the first artist to reach double digits across both singles and albums.

Sly Stone, the legendary funk musician who was regarded as one of the most renowned artists of all time, has passed away, Variety reported. He was 82.  Sly’s passing was confirmed by his family, who released an offcial statement. “After a prolonged battle with COPD [chronic obstructive pulmonary disease] and other underlying health issues, Sly passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three children, his closest friend and his extended family,” a statement from his family reads. “While we mourn his absence, we take solace in knowing that his extraordinary musical legacy will continue to resonate and inspire for generations to come.” “Sly was a monumental figure, a groundbreaking innovator, and a true pioneer who redefined the landscape of pop, funk, and rock music. His iconic songs have left an indelible mark on the world, and his influence remains undeniable. In a testament to his enduring creative spirit, Sly recently completed the screenplay for his life story, a project we are eager to share with the world in due course, which follows a memoir published in 2024.” Born Sylvester Stewart in Denton, Texas, in 1943. The family relocated to California.  Sly found his love while singing in the church choir from the age of 4, alongside his siblings. Soon, he would gain local fame as a member of bands in high school before goint to study music theory at Solano Community College. After leaving school, he worked as a DJ for San Francisco’s KSOL. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Keith Boykin (@keithboykin) By the late 60s, Sly and the Family Stone was formed with his brother Freddie Stone, sister Rose Stone, trumpeter Cynthia Robinson, drummer Greg Errico, saxophonist Jerry Martini, and bassist Larry Graham. The trailblazing group was the first multi-gender, interracial band to hit the mainstream. Combining funk, rock, and psychedelic soul, they released their debut album, A Whole New Thing, in 1967. “Dance to the Music,” their first single, was also released in 1967  their album of the same name the next year. In 1969, Stand became their biggest success, featuring classics such as  “Everyday People,” “Hot Fun in the Summertime” and “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)”/”Everybody Is a Star.”  The same year, the band gave a legendary performance at Woodstock. Although the band would have some more hit songs and albums, such as the highly influential Greatest Hits in 1970 and There’s a Riot Goin’ On in 1971, Sly’s drug use caused the group to fracture. He became notorious for missing concert dates. They officially broke up in 1975. For their immense accomplishments, in 1993, Sly and the Family Stone were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Over the years, Sly stayed out of the public eye, rarely performing due to battling addiction. In 2023, he released his memoir Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin), named after the band’s classic 1970 single. Earlier this year by Grammy and Oscar-winning director Questlove documented his life and career in  Sly Lives: aka the Burden of Black Genius. The doc features commentary from various Black artists about how they cope with challenges with success.  We at HOT97 extend our prayers and deepest condolences to the family and friends of Sly Stone.

Amerie made a triumphant return to the stage this Black Music Month, honoring the 20th anniversary of her beloved sophomore album Touch with a special Tiny Desk concert. The performance, which premiered June 6th, was a soulful celebration of her timeless sound and a reminder of the magic she brings to R&B. Backed by D.C.’s own Backyard Band, Amerie delivered a vibrant, live set that pulled from both All I Have and Touch. Her setlist included “Talkin’ to Me,” “Why Don’t We Fall in Love,” “Mine,” “I Just Died,” “Rolling Down My Face,” “Talkin’ About,” and of course, “1 Thing.” The mini-concert captured the essence of her signature style—blending go-go beats, jazzy horns, and silky vocals into something that still feels like summer. The performance was part of NPR’s month-long tribute to Black music, spotlighting albums that have reached milestone anniversaries. “This year feels like the perfect time to stop and revere some of the greatest albums in Black music,” said Tiny Desk host and producer Bobby Carter. “These artists might not be the first you hear in the pop culture conversation, but they are crown jewels in Black culture. These are our icons.” Carter credited last year’s Chaka Khan performance as the inspiration. “She reminded us that she’s been making music for 50 years,” he said. Amerie’s return comes after a seven-year hiatus. In March, she dropped her single “Mine,” produced by Grammy-winner Troy Taylor, and announced a 2025 album in the works. Fans can also catch her on the road with Keyshia Cole for The Way It Is 20th Anniversary Tour. With fresh music, a tour on the horizon, and a legacy worth celebrating, Amerie is showing the world her impact is far from over.

NBA YoungBoy has received a presidential pardon from President Donald Trump. On Wednesday (March 28), YoungBoy, along with eight others, including real estate entrepreneurs Todd and Julie Chrisley and Michael Grimm, a former GOP Congressman, were granted clemency. In a statement, YoungBoy expressed his gratitude for being pardoned. “I want to thank President Trump for granting me a pardon and giving me the opportunity to keep building – as a man, as a father, and as an artist,” YoungBoy said in a statement shared to social media. “This moment means a lot. It opens the door to a future I’ve worked hard for and I am fully prepared to step into this.” In addition to Michael Grimm and the Chrisleys, President Trump used his pardon power to grant clemency to a wave of individuals Wednesday, including:  — Former Connecticut Gov. John Rowland, who was convicted twice — Kentrell Gaulden, the rapper who goes by NBA YoungBoy and… — Kaitlan Collins (@kaitlancollins) May 28, 2025 “Big thanks to the Pardon Czar, Ms. Alice Marie Johnson, for fighting for second chances for so many people, and to my lawyer, Brittany K. Barnett, for being in my corner and all your hard work to make this possible,” his statement continued. “And thank you to everyone who believed in me.” Throughout his career, YoungBoy has faced constant legal troubles, including firearms charges and house arrest. Even while dealing with legal issues, the Baton Rouge rapper has dropped several albums and mixtapes while serving time in prison. Youngboy’s pardon comes in just as his upcoming 27-city concert run, which begins on September 2 in Dallas, is called the Make America Smile Again (MASA) .

Before he became an international superstar, The Weeknd had a regular 9-to-5. During his late-night TV debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Thursday, May 15, the Ontario native revealed that he wanted to make it as a musician because his biggest goal was “to quit my job.” “I was working at American Apparel,” he said. “I was like 19; I was trying to fold clothes.” “People working at American Apparel started playing the music. And that was the validation I needed. I was like, ‘I’m quitting this job, and this is mine. Yeah, it’s my full-time life,” he continued. He went on to say that no one knew what he looked like because he didn’t show his face as an artist. When he heard people at his gig playing his music, that’s when decided to quit for good. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Tonight Show (@fallontonight) “People working at American Apparel started playing the music. And that was the validation I needed. I was like, ‘I’m quitting this job, and this is mine. Yeah, it’s my full-time life,” he recalled. After leaving the world of retail, he kept working with his boss from American Apparel, but in a different capacity. “My boss is actually one of my creative directors,” The Weeknd explained.”He does all my typography for my albums now.” Following his conversation with Fallon, The Weeknd performed “Baptized in Fear” and “Open Hearts” off his new album.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hurry Up Tomorrow (@hurryuptomorrowmovie) Along with sharing his background in the retail industry, The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, was promoting his film, Hurry Up Tomorrow. Premiering in theaters on Friday, May 16, the psychological thriller stars Jenna Ortega and Barry Keoghan.

Xzibit recently revealed how his former label head demanded an $11 million buyout from Dr. Dre so he could join Aftermath Records. Speaking with Red Bull,  Xzibit claimed that Steve Rifkind, the former CEO of Loud Records, wanted a large sum of money for his release from the label. “He asked for an $11 million buyout,” claimed Xzibit. “He just didn’t want to let me go.” Because of the massive price tag, the deal fell through. Although Dre didn’t sign him to Aftermath, he served as an executive producer on two of Xzibit’s albums. “He told me that no matter what he was doing or where I landed, he was gonna make sure he was there for me,” Xzibit recalled. As the interview continued, Xzibit spoke about his influential show Pimp My Ride. “Nobody knew Pimp My Ride was gonna be Pimp My Ride until that shit came out,” he said. “I had soccer moms coming up and pinching my cheeks and telling me how much they loved me. It turned me into a global brand. I was in people’s homes. I was in people’s lives. People still come up to me to this day and tell me I was a big part of their childhood.” Previously, he shared why he left the popular MTV show, detailing that his contract demands were not being met. “You really want the truth about why Pimp My Ride only lasted six seasons?… Some people don’t want their childhood ruined,” he said. “It ended because my contract was up, and I didn’t want to renew it. I was on my way out the door at 20th Century Fox after filming the last episode, and it was like, ‘Yo, all good things must come to an end.’ I’m good. I’m very good. I’m shaking hands and I’m like, ‘Okay guys, contract’s up, I don’t want to renew. I’m out.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by XZIBIT (@xzibit) The West Coast legend also released his alm Kingmaker, on May 16, his first album in 13 years.

After thrilling audiences across North America with “The Serenade 2024 Tour, multi-platinum, Grammy-winning artist Maxwell has announced ‘The Silent Serenade Ensemble”, a limited run of intimate, reimagined performances on the East Coast.  According the the press released, “Maxwell will bring his unmistakable voice and signature blend of sensual soul and timeless grooves to MGM National Harbor in Washington, D.C. for three consecutive nights—September 18, 19, and 20, followed by a very special hometown show at the historic Kings Theatre in Brooklyn on September 28.” These exclusive performances will give Maxwell’s adoring fans a completely unique live music experience. Each show will feature new arrangements of his classic hits and deeper cuts, supported by live percussion and a string quartet, bringing an elegant, cinematic dimension to Maxwell’s music. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Maxwell (@maxwell) In a statement, Maxwell expressed his excitement about the upcoming performances. “Brooklyn raised me, D.C. embraced me—and there’s nothing like sharing that kind of love in a more intimate setting,” says Maxwell. “These shows are going to feel like home.” This past February, Maxwell led his second annual romantic, star-studded Urban Hang Suite Cruise. The sold-out cruise featured exclusive performances by Maxwell and as guests aboard the Norwegian Pearl, making stops in the Cayman Islands and Jamaica. The third annual Urban Hang Suite Cruise, taking place on the Norwegian Joy from February 7-12, 2026.  Regarded as one of the greatest singers of his generation, Maxwell has released several hit singles such as “Till the Cops Come Knockin”, “Ascension (Don’t Ever Wonder)”, “Sumthin’ Sumthin”,  “Fortunate”, “Pretty Wings”, and “Lake by the Ocean.”  His classic albums include Maxwell’s Urban Hang Suite (1996), Embrya (1998), Now (2001), and  BLACKsummers’night (2009), to name a few. For his work as an artist, Maxwell has won three Grammy Awards, six Soul Train Music Awards, and two NAACP Image Awards.