Tory Lanez has asked a federal court to shield him from further involvement in the defamation lawsuit Megan Thee Stallion filed against commentator Milagro Gramz. Megan contends that Gramz spread falsehoods about the 2020 shooting that led to Lanez’s conviction. The case has drawn national attention as it unfolds in California. On September 24, Lanez’s attorneys filed a motion for a protective order. They argued that his participation would place an undue burden on him. The filing stated, “Daystar Peterson (‘Mr. Peterson’), by counsel, respectfully moves for a Protective Order under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 26(c).” His legal team stressed that Lanez is a non-party in Pete v. Cooper (No. 1:24-cv-24228, Southern District of Florida). They warned that further testimony could prejudice his pending criminal appeal while raising constitutional concerns over his rights. The motion added, “For the foregoing reasons, Mr. Peterson respectfully requests that the Court grant his Motion for Protective Order, barring improper non-party deposition or, alternatively, limiting discovery consistent with the Federal Rules, Ninth Circuit precedent, and constitutional protections.” Lanez’s lawyers also argued that others named in the case—including DJ Akademiks and Caesar McDowell—did not face the same level of scrutiny during their depositions. That, they suggested, pointed to unequal treatment. The decision on Lanez’s request now rests with the court. Expanding Legal Battle Megan Thee Stallion’s defamation suit has widened its reach. DJ Akademiks has been ordered to testify and to reveal the source of a leaked DNA report tied to the case. Adin Ross, another online personality, attempted to avoid a deposition but has so far been unsuccessful. Lanez’s own legal issues remain close at hand. Last August, a judge ordered him to sit for a second deposition. His first appearance was described as uncooperative and disrespectful toward Megan’s attorneys. Taken together, the lawsuit and Lanez’s appeal highlight the increasingly blurred line between criminal accountability, media influence, and celebrity culture. As the court considers his motion for protection, the outcome carries implications for both the artists involved and the wider industry watching from the sidelines. View this post on Instagram A post shared by XXL (@xxl)

Metro Boomin is facing a civil lawsuit from Vanessa LeMaistre, who alleges he exploited her during a 2016 encounter. The case came into public view this week as proceedings formally began in Los Angeles courts. During opening statements on Tuesday, LeMaistre’s attorneys detailed her account. They asserted that her consumption of Xanax and alcohol at Boomin’s studio left her in a vulnerable state. Boomin has denied the allegations, insisting that the encounter was consensual. Rapper Young Thug attended the courtroom on Wednesday to show support. Speaking with Rolling Stone journalist Nancy Dillon, he said, “I’m just here to support him. He’s a longtime friend.” His presence underscores the deep personal networks within the hip-hop community, which frequently intersect with professional relationships. The trial took a contentious turn when LeMaistre’s legal team requested a mistrial. They claimed that Boomin’s attorneys improperly referenced a prior sexual encounter between the parties. LeMaistre has denied any such history. Her lawyers argued in court, “If plaintiff’s counsel was provided fair warning and a hearing was held, the claim that plaintiff engaged in consensual sex with the defendant prior to the sexual assault would have been precluded.” They contended that references to a prior encounter should not have been introduced at all. Young Thug’s Album and Ongoing Legal Battles As this legal dispute continues, Young Thug is preparing to release his highly anticipated album, UY Scuti, on September 26. The project marks his first since being released from jail following the YSL RICO case. Furthermore, speculation of a collaboration with YFN Lucci has further heightened anticipation. Thug is simultaneously facing his own legal challenges. Georgia authorities are appealing a ruling that allowed him to reclaim assets seized during the YSL case. These include cash, luxury vehicles, and a collection of valuable jewelry. The Metro Boomin case highlights the intricate issues of consent and accountability within the music industry. Beyond the legal arguments, it underscores how the personal and professional lives of high-profile artists are heavily scrutinized. The trial’s outcome may ripple through the broader hip-hop community. It may shape perceptions of conduct, responsibility, and the pressures faced by figures in the public eye. Young Thug is here to support Metro Boomin in his civil sexual assault trial. I saw him in the security line when I was walking out for the break, and I did a double take because whoa. He confirmed he’s here to support his friend. I mentioned Brian Steel and @ThuggerDaily. pic.twitter.com/m1HjpZSaDv — Meghann Cuniff (@meghanncuniff) September 24, 2025

In an unexpected turn, media mogul Dame Dash took to Instagram earlier this month to express his desire to reconcile with fellow artists Cam’ron and 50 Cent. The announcement follows a history of public disputes that have strained his relationships with both figures. Yet Dash appears intent on setting aside past grievances and fostering collaboration. In an impassioned video, Dash laid out his vision for a truce. This coincides with a $300 million lawsuit connected to the host of It Is What It Is. “50, Cam, me—if we can demonstrate that we’ve been at odds yet are now coming together, whether it be for a television project or a film, we can show the world that reconciliation is possible,” he said. He reflected on the toll of ongoing conflicts: “They revel in our conflicts, but I refuse to partake in that any longer. I owe an apology to my elders for any embarrassment caused during this turmoil; I simply aimed to communicate with them.” To emphasize the broader message, Dash added in the post’s caption, “Let’s illustrate to the world that we can unite over trivial disputes. The narrative of division is outdated.” 50 Cent’s Response Contrary to expectations, 50 Cent’s reply was far from conciliatory. On Instagram, he shared Dash’s video with a pointed critique, blending acknowledgment with dismissal. “I agree with Dame [100 percent] that collaboration fosters greater success,” he wrote. “But, hold on—Cam just dissed Dame and his so-called lawsuit. So right now, it’s f*ck you, Dame.” Dame Dash has yet to respond publicly to 50 Cent’s rebuke. The evolving dynamic among these three influential figures underscores the complexities of personal feuds within the entertainment world. While the prospect of collaboration remains, any future partnership is likely to confront significant hurdles. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 50 Cent (@50cent)

As Young Thug prepares to release his new studio album, “UY Scuti,” legal pressures are intensifying. The state of Georgia has filed an appeal aiming to overturn a recent ruling. This ruling allowed him to reclaim assets previously seized in the ongoing YSL RICO case. Among the items in question are $150,000 in cash, a fleet of luxury vehicles, and an extensive collection of jewelry. According to ThuggerDaily, prosecutors have taken the matter to the Court of Appeals. They are contesting a decision issued last month by Fulton County Judge Paige Reese Whitaker. In her ruling, Judge Whitaker highlighted the prosecution’s failure to meet key deadlines without sufficient explanation. “I believe that the court has no choice under current case law and legislative guidelines but to grant this dismissal,” she said, as reported by Billboard. Deputy District Attorney Jeff DiSantis expressed surprise at the ruling in remarks to Fox 5. “We are puzzled that Judge Whitaker dismissed the case based on a timeline proposed by defense counsel. This timeline included a trial date set by the court. We are currently reviewing our options for appeal given this unusual procedural background,” he said, underscoring the lingering uncertainty around the case. Anticipation for UY Scuti Against this legal backdrop, Young Thug is preparing “UY Scuti,” his first full-length project since his release from jail. Scheduled for September 26, the album represents his fourth studio effort. While the tracklist has not been officially confirmed, speculation has swirled about collaborations. Artists including Future, Lil Baby, Travis Scott, 21 Savage, Ken Carson, and Mariah the Scientist are rumored. Recent controversies may shape the album’s final lineup. Social media backlash followed leaked jail call recordings in which Young Thug criticized peers including Future, Drake, and Travis Scott. He has also publicly admitted to infidelity involving Mariah the Scientist. This adds another layer of intrigue around the project’s content and collaborations. The State of Georgia has filed an appeal to try to reverse the ruling that gave Young Thug all his seized property back. pic.twitter.com/eHkLKIG4vW — THUGGERDAILY ひ (@ThuggerDaily) September 23, 2025

A$AP Rocky is sharing his thoughts on one of the most heated rap battles of recent years. In his cover story for ELLE on September 23rd, the Harlem star addressed his role during the feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar and explained why he decided to pull back after taking a few shots of his own. Rocky acknowledged that competition has always been part of the culture. “It was healthy for hip-hop,” he said, noting that he came to realize the focus should remain on the two central figures. “The battle was between Kendrick and Drake, not Drake and everybody else who might have said something at that time, and that’s mainly why I fell back.” Before stepping aside, Rocky dropped a few sharp words aimed at Drake on “Show of Hands,” a track from Metro Boomin and Future’s 2024 release WE STILL DON’T TRUST YOU. Drake later mentioned Rocky in his multi-part diss record “Family Matters,” though most of the firepower was directed at Lamar. The part of the saga Rocky takes issue with is how it moved beyond music. Drake launched a defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group in early 2025, accusing the company of allowing “Not Like Us” to spread damaging claims. “I just hate the way it’s turning out with [Drake] suing and all that,” Rocky remarked. “What part of the game is that? What type of s—t is that? That’s none of my business, I guess.” Drake’s court filing alleged UMG “chose corporate greed over the safety and well-being of its artists.” UMG rejected the accusation in a statement to Billboard, saying, “We have not and do not engage in defamation — against any individual.” More recently, Drake’s lawyers accused the label of holding back evidence, pointing to potential emails from CEO Lucian Grainge regarding Lamar and “Not Like Us.”

Saucy Santana made headlines after a concerning episode at a Waffle House in Atlanta. He was seen being carried out on a stretcher. The moment quickly stirred worry across social media, leaving fans eager for updates on his condition. Later, from his hospital bed, Santana reassured supporters while announcing the release of his upcoming album, Haute Sauce, set for September 24. A video capturing the incident circulated rapidly online, with the filmer narrating as they waited for news. “I’m at a Waffle House in Atlanta where they say Saucy Santana has fainted. I’ll see him shortly, so stay tuned,” the individual said. Responses were mixed, with many criticizing the act of recording someone in a vulnerable moment. One commenter reflected the sentiment of many: “Don’t you all find it strange to record people during moments like this? Everyone wants to play paparazzi… it’s frustrating. Hope Saucy is alright though…” Despite limited details about the stretcher incident, Santana quickly took to Instagram to preview his new music. Fans responded with enthusiasm, flooding the post with comments: “BABYYYYYYYYYY YOU DIDN’T HAVE TO SNATCH OUR WIGSSS LIKE THIS!!!!!” The excitement surrounding Haute Sauce was palpable. Some jokingly speculated whether the hospital scene was a clever promotional tactic. Saucy Santana Marks Milestone Amid Recovery This month, the rapper also celebrated a milestone: his 2019 breakout hit, Material Girl, officially earned gold certification from the RIAA, denoting over 500,000 units sold. Reflecting on his journey, he shared a message of gratitude and determination: “GO GOD!!!! Po’ lil gay boy in the studio rapping everything I DIDN’T have…MANIFESTATION because I have it all now!” He also acknowledged the support of collaborators, declaring confidently, “BITCH, I’M UNF*CKWITABLE!” As excitement builds for Haute Sauce, fans remain hopeful for Santana’s swift recovery. The episode highlights the pressures faced by artists. It also underscores their resilience—offering a glimpse into a career shaped by creativity, perseverance, and a deep connection with his audience. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Neighborhood Talk (@theneighborhoodtalk)

During a livestream known as Mafiathon 3, Mariah Carey startled fans with an unexpected shout-out to SZA while speaking with Kai Cenat. Her praise for the younger singer immediately set off speculation about whether the two might be preparing to work together—a prospect that, if realized, would rank among the most compelling collaborations in modern R&B. That speculation deepened when Carey posted a photograph of pale pink roses on her Instagram Story, a bouquet reportedly sent by SZA as a thank-you. Tucked inside was a handwritten note that read, “MC, I’m incredibly thankful for the love you’ve shown me. You’ve been a MASSIVE influence and inspiration for me and so many others! I eagerly anticipate the release of your new album next Friday! Looking forward to meeting soon! – SZA.” SZA then responded in kind, sharing her own Instagram Story that featured a vase of white orchids. The flowers were paired with a cryptic note: “9.24.25. See you soon… XX MC.” The date has prompted a wave of guessing—was Carey inviting SZA to a private listening session for her forthcoming 16th studio album, Here for it All? Or was it a hint that the two might already be working on something together? Anticipation for Carey’s New Album For SZA, a meeting with Carey would carry more than symbolic weight. Despite her rapid ascent, the two singers have never crossed paths publicly, and Carey’s influence on the genre remains unmatched. On the livestream, Carey’s admiration was unambiguous, describing SZA as one of her favorite contemporary artists. The build-up to Here for it All, scheduled for release Friday, September 26, has already been intense. The 11-track record features collaborations with Anderson .Paak, Kehlani, Shenseea, and gospel legends The Clark Sisters. Though SZA’s name does not appear on the track list, the recent flurry of exchanges has given fans reason to hope that a collaboration may arrive sooner rather than later.

On Saturday (Sept.20), during a sultry performance of “Take You Down,” Chris Brown brought Summer Walker on stage and gave her the show of a lifetime. The steamy affair took place amid Brown’s show at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Earlier today (Sept. 21), The Shade Room reposted fan footage of the steamy moment to their official page. Walker, who is a guest performer on Brown’s Breezy Bowl XX Tour, couldn’t help but blush like a little schoolgirl as Brown sang to her, as well as giving her a lap dance. Not long after, the video began to circulate online. A fan reached out to Summer Walker through Instagram. They made a joke that Walker was supposed to “put her legs up” and really enjoy the moment on stage. Walker responded, noting that while she had a great poker face on stage, she was actually nervous. According to her, Brown is her “celebrity crush.” Brown’s “Take You Down” segment has caused a flurry of conversation online over the past few years. In 2023, it was reported that a fan of Brown broke up with his girlfriend after she received a lap dance from the singer. “Take You Down” was released in 2007 and is featured on the singer’s sophomore album, Exclusive. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Shade Room (@theshaderoom) Chris Brown Deactivates Instagram In Response To Colorist Accusations In other news, Chris Brown is stepping back from social media just days after his steamy onstage moment with Kayla Nicole lit up the internet. While in the middle of his U.S. tour, the singer addressed the conversation swirling around him. He made it clear he was over it. Before logging off Instagram, he left a sharp message to critics: “MISS ME WITH THE COLORIST RAGE BAITING.” Brown also admitted he was “sick” of the negativity filling his timeline. The timing of his exit came right after clips of his Los Angeles show went viral. During the performance, he pulled Kayla Nicole on stage for his “Take You Down” set. The two put on a show that had the crowd screaming. Fans captured the moment from every angle as Brown lifted her into the choreography. This created a scene that quickly spread across social media.

Cardi B’s new album, Am I The Drama?, arrived with enormous expectations. It immediately delivered, earning platinum status on the day of its release. The certification reflects not only her commercial pull but also the anticipation built on the breakout success of earlier singles like “Up” and “WAP.” Tracks such as “Bodega Baddie” have already caught the attention of fans. Moreover, the record’s instant milestone points to a broader reach that extends well beyond individual favorites. The speed of the certification also highlights the shifting ways the music industry measures success. In a landscape dominated by streaming, the relevance of first-week sales continues to be debated. While some dismiss it as outdated, others defend it as a barometer of cultural influence. What is clear is that Cardi’s return has reignited conversation. This is about her standing in hip-hop and the scale of her audience. Whether the album’s staying power matches its opening impact will be tested in the weeks ahead. A Return to Rivalries The release also drew attention for revisiting an old feud. In a recent interview, Cardi addressed pointed lines aimed at BIA in her track “Pretty & Petty.” “You mentioned my kids trying to be cute. She did her little diss and it was trash… I felt inclined to address it. This is because everything on social media will eventually be visible to my children. When they grow up and see that BIA mentioned them, they’ll naturally want to know how I responded.” Her remarks underscored a determination to respond directly when family is drawn into public sparring. This stance reflects both her protectiveness and her candor as an artist. With Am I The Drama?, Cardi B has reaffirmed her ability to command both attention and momentum in a crowded field. Hip-hop has long thrived on rivalry, spectacle, and cultural debate. Her album contributes to that tradition while securing a milestone few artists achieve so quickly. For now, its platinum debut cements Cardi’s place at the center of the conversation. This is a reminder of her ability to blend commercial dominance with unflinching authenticity. Congratulations @iamcardib! Her brand new album #AmITheDrama? is out now and already RIAA certified Platinum, featuring the certified 9x Platinum hit #WAP and 5x Platinum #UP. @AtlanticRecords pic.twitter.com/LhnUb0Ua9Y — RIAA (@RIAA) September 19, 2025

Jermaine Dupri stopped by HOT 97 to talk with Nessa about his new album Magic City, dropping this Friday, September 12. He reflected on being named Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip Hop Producer of the 21st Century and whether he expected to land at the top of that list. They discussed some of the biggest moments in his career, including working with Mariah Carey, Usher, Xscape, Bow Wow, and Da Brat, and what he credits his longevity to. The conversation also touched on his new album and working with Rich Homie Quan. Nessa asked him about his time at Magic City, the impact the club had on Atlanta’s music culture, the most he’s seen spent in a night and some tips on how to throw money at the strip club. They got into personal stories about his friendships with Da Brat, Mariah Carey, and Janet Jackson, and why marriage may or may not be in his future. He talked about what he learned from Quincy Jones and Ray Charles. He also shared his thoughts on the mistakes artists make today, what advice he’d give to them, and if Confessions was a true story from Usher’s life. Jermaine Dupri’s album Magic City is out this Friday, September 12.