As 2025 draws to a close, 21 Savage is ready to reemerge with highly anticipated new music. After months of relative quiet, the Atlanta rapper teased a release this Friday with a simple post on X: “Friday !” The brief announcement has fueled speculation about the themes and sound of his latest project. His Apple Music profile now features a pre-save link for WHAT HAPPENED TO THE STREETS?, a title that echoes an acronym he recently highlighted at Art Basel in Miami. During the event, a massive inflatable sculpture by Nigerian artist Olaolu Slawn displayed the letters “WHTTS,” sparking immediate conversation among fans eager to decode the album’s meaning and direction. Fans have been waiting for a substantial solo release, as Savage’s activity this year primarily consisted of guest features on tracks like Lil Baby’s “Outfit” and Summer Walker’s “Get Yo Boy.” His last album, american dream, arrived in early 2024 and produced standout tracks including “redrum,” “nee-nah,” and “should’ve wore a bonnet.” That project contained 15 songs, while WHAT HAPPENED TO THE STREETS? appears to be slightly leaner, featuring 14 tracks. As with his previous releases, Savage has kept details about song titles and collaborators tightly under wraps, leaving fans to speculate in anticipation of the full rollout. Friday ! — Saint Laurent Don (@21savage) December 8, 2025 Who Will Collaborate on the Album? Savage has a history of revealing guest artists only at the time of release, and observers expect a similar approach this week. The upcoming album follows a chart-topping predecessor that sold 133,000 units in its first week—Savage’s fourth number-one album—raising expectations for its commercial performance. Whether this new project will surpass those numbers remains uncertain. Hints of potential features have surfaced subtly. Travis Scott recently reshared the album’s teaser on his Instagram Story, sparking rumors of a collaboration. Moreover, given the provocative title and recent exchanges between Savage and 6ix9ine, listeners anticipate bold lyrics and possibly a pointed musical rebuttal woven into the tracks. With WHAT HAPPENED TO THE STREETS? set to arrive this Friday, excitement is building around both the music and the stories it may tell. Fans await the release to see how 21 Savage charts his next chapter and whether the album will signal a new artistic direction for one of hip-hop’s most influential voices
Victoria Monét Signals Interest in Collaborating with Drake
Victoria Monét, a rising force in contemporary R&B, has captured attention by revealing her desire to work with Drake. The announcement is particularly striking given her previous admiration for Kendrick Lamar, prompting a range of reactions from fans and industry insiders alike. Her comments reflect the complex balance of loyalty, artistry, and strategy that defines today’s music landscape. During her appearance on Angel Reese’s podcast, Unapologetically Angel, Monét conveyed her excitement about the potential partnership. “I still want to work with Drake. Love Drake. Yeah, he’s amazing,” she said. Reese’s enthusiastic response, “As you should,” reinforced Monét’s enthusiasm and underscored the shared anticipation for the collaboration. The statement quickly reverberated through Drake’s fanbase, generating both excitement and cautious speculation. While listeners eagerly anticipate new music from the Canadian rapper, Monét’s previous alignment with Kendrick Lamar complicates the narrative. Fans debated online whether she should maintain allegiance to Lamar’s camp, given the longstanding rivalry between the two hip-hop icons. Monét’s interest also raises broader questions about reconciliation and collaboration in the industry. Could a partnership with Drake bridge divides between fan communities, or has too much time passed to overcome past tensions? As an artist respected by both camps, Monét may hold a unique position to foster creative dialogue and innovation across genre boundaries. what happened to her repping the west coast last year https://t.co/VF4WtnIiAm — §osa (@sosavrse) December 5, 2025 Anticipation Mounts for Drake’s Upcoming Album ICEMAN At the same time, the music world is abuzz over Drake’s forthcoming album, ICEMAN. Though an official release date has not yet been confirmed, many expect a 2025 debut. In an email interview with Complex, Drake hinted at a livestream event to preview the project, fueling excitement among fans. The discussions surrounding ICEMAN highlight the intensity of loyalty and rivalry in contemporary hip-hop and R&B. Speculation about potential collaborations drives conversation about how artists and fanbases might intersect in new ways. With Drake and Kendrick Lamar at the center of these dynamics, Victoria Monét’s aspirations could serve as a catalyst for unity and creative exploration in a genre often shaped by division.
Rumors Suggest Tension Between Beyoncé and Brandy
Recent reports have reignited speculation about the relationship between Beyoncé and Brandy, two of the music industry’s most iconic figures. The conversation escalated when Ray J took to Instagram to express frustration over what he perceived as a lack of recognition for his sister during her recent tour with Monica. In his candid posts, Ray J called on Beyoncé and Jay-Z to acknowledge Brandy at her performances. “N****a need to pull up when they pull up to the show,” he wrote, adding, “I don’t like that.” At the same time, he expressed admiration for the couple, noting, “I love you, Jay, and I love you, Bey. Y’all are the two biggest stars in the world.” He clarified that his comments came from a personal place, emphasizing, “THIS IS COMING FROM THE HEART!! And I LOVE MY FAMILY AND I LOVE JAY AND BEY!!” Ray J also acknowledged that his remarks might provoke discussion, but he insisted they stemmed from love and respect. A History of Distance Sources close to both artists suggest that the relationship between Beyoncé and Brandy has long been distant. While there were moments in the past when the two shared a friendlier connection, over time, that bond appears to have faded. The evolution of Beyoncé’s career and rising prominence in the industry may have contributed to a shift in dynamics, creating tension amid professional and personal pressures. Despite their enduring status as cultural icons within R&B and pop, maintaining a close relationship has proven challenging. The gap between public perception and private reality highlights how fame and career demands can strain even the most promising connections. As of now, neither Beyoncé nor Brandy has publicly addressed these discussions, leaving fans and observers to wonder about the true nature of their relationship.
Kanye West Officially Banned From Brazil for Nazi Remarks
Kanye West’s clash with Brazilian authorities has escalated once again, with officials moving to block his latest planned performance. He had been slated to appear at São Paulo’s Interlagos Racetrack on November 29, but the show was canceled after his inflammatory remarks and reported admiration for Nazism resurfaced online. Consequence first reported the decision, which Brazilian officials framed as a necessary response to rhetoric they consider incompatible with the country’s laws and public values. The São Paulo cancellation follows a similar setback earlier this year. In Rio de Janeiro, local leaders shut down West’s attempt to stage a large-scale concert modeled after the Rolling Stones’ 2006 beach performance. Officials said his past comments left them with little choice, arguing that granting him a platform would run counter to Brazil’s stringent protections against hate-driven speech. Their stance reflects a government increasingly willing to draw firm lines when artists cross into extremist territory. São Paulo’s mayor, Ricardo Nunes, made that point plainly: “No one who promotes Nazism will perform or sing any words on public equipment belonging to the City Hall. We do not accept it, and we will take all necessary measures to ensure that no individual promoting Nazism can engage in any activity here in São Paulo.” His comments mirror Brazil’s broader commitment to enforcing its anti-Nazi legislation. Signs of a Public Reset Even with these setbacks, West has recently made efforts to address the controversy. He met with Rabbi Yoshiyahu Yosef Pinto in New York, a conversation Rabbi Pinto described as sincere and grounded in accountability. According to him, if West continues “real efforts” toward learning and reflection, Brazil may eventually reconsider its stance. West has also revised parts of his musical catalog. He has removed several contentious tracks—”WW3,” “HEIL HITLER/HALLELUJAH,” and “COUSINS”—a move that appears aimed at distancing himself from past themes that fueled public outrage. The quiet deletions suggest an attempt to shift his artistic identity as he navigates the fallout. Officials remain wary, but a future return is not entirely off the table. Some organizers have floated the possibility of a Brazilian date in 2026, potentially outside São Paulo, should West continue to demonstrate meaningful change. For now, his path forward hinges on whether these early overtures can persuade skeptical authorities.
Young Thug Pulls Gunna Diss From Lil Baby Track
A short music snippet that surfaced in August reignited conversation in hip-hop circles, showing Young Thug seemingly taking aim at Gunna on an unreleased Lil Baby track. The two artists, once close collaborators riding the same creative wave, have seen their relationship shift dramatically since their 2022 legal entanglements. Both were swept up in a gang-related indictment, and Gunna’s choice to accept a plea deal drew swift accusations of “snitching,” fueling speculation about whether their friendship could survive the fallout. Young Thug remained largely silent for months, but the leaked clip suggested lingering tension. One line in particular caught fans’ attention: “Only reason I fked with you Gunna, it was cause of Troup,”** which many interpreted as a pointed acknowledgment of distance between former allies. The moment intensified public curiosity, leaving listeners to wonder whether reconciliation might ever be on the table. Young Thug’s Verse Fuels Debate Over Loyalty and Feuds That debate grew more pronounced on December 3, when Lil Baby officially released “Superman” on his album The Leaks. The final version features a revised verse from Young Thug, notably excluding any mention of Gunna. Neither artist has clarified the change, leaving fans to debate whether it signals a conscious effort to move past past conflicts or simply a creative decision without broader significance. Young Thug later addressed his perspective during a September appearance on the Its Up There podcast, offering insight into the emotional complexity of the situation. “I think I’m just in the unpacking phase… It ain’t even about not f*cking with you because I want him to just understand why I feel like it shouldn’t happen again…” His words reveal a tangled mix of loyalty, frustration, and enduring respect—a recognition that, even amid strain, their connection remains meaningful.
“Not Like Us” Closes 2025 as Apple Music’s Top Rap Track
More than a year after its debut, Kendrick Lamar’s blistering diss track aimed at Drake, “Not Like Us,” is still shaping the musical landscape. Apple Music has named it the platform’s most-streamed rap song worldwide for 2025. This recognition makes it the first hip-hop single to claim the title two years in a row. The achievement speaks to the song’s staying power and the way it has lodged itself firmly in the broader cultural conversation. In the world of rap, Lamar’s influence cannot be understated. His momentum surged earlier this year after a commanding Super Bowl LIX halftime performance at New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome. During the event, 133.5 million viewers watched him take center stage. The spectacle reignited discussion about the long-running tension between the two artists. According to recent court filings, it may have added new strain to Drake’s ongoing legal fight. In updated documents, Drake argues that Universal Music Group contributed to a “false and malicious” image of him as a sexual predator. He claims the accusations intensified in the wake of Kendrick’s halftime appearance. His amended complaint points to a rise in threats directed at him and his family after the performance aired. Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’ was the most streamed rap song worldwide on Apple Music in 2025 It is the first rap song to hold this title in back-to-back years on the platform. pic.twitter.com/r5tBVN3wqb — Hip Hop All Day (@HipHopAllDayy) December 2, 2025 New Turns in the Case The legal dispute has continued to expand, with Lamar figuring prominently in the ongoing discussions. Drake’s legal team recently requested an extension on several deadlines, citing the demands of the case and the upcoming holiday season. Their brief is currently due December 22. However, both sides have asked to move the filing to January 21. Should the court approve the request, Kendrick’s attorneys would be required to respond by March 27. An extension would also give Drake’s lawyer, Michael Gottlieb, added room to manage other high-profile matters. These include an ongoing lawsuit involving actress Blake Lively. In their most recent filing, Drake’s attorneys emphasized the stakes of the dispute. They wrote, “This is a high-profile case bearing on issues of public interest such as artistic expression and the scope of defamation law for public figures.” The case, already linked to Lamar, is drawing significant public interest.
Rising Rapper POORSTACY Found Dead, Music Community in Shock
The music world is mourning the sudden death of rising artist POORSTACY. His work on the Bill & Ted Face the Music soundtrack and collaborations with Travis Barker had earned him growing acclaim. TMZ reports that the Florida-based rapper was found dead over the weekend in Boca Raton. The Palm Beach County Medical Examiner confirmed the news, though the cause of death has not been released. POORSTACY had been staying at a local hotel for ten days with a woman and a toddler when a medical emergency prompted staff to rush him to a nearby hospital. His companions were unharmed, according to reports. In the absence of official details, social media has speculated about suicide. Fans have shared grief and personal stories of loss. Some have also questioned whether aspects of the emo-rap scene may contribute to cycles of self-destructive behavior. This raises broader concerns about the pressures within the genre. View this post on Instagram Musical Legacy and Achievements Although his career was tragically brief, POORSTACY left a notable imprint on the music industry. He released two studio albums and two EPs, earning critical praise along the way. His Grammy nomination for the Bill & Ted Face the Music soundtrack highlighted his talent. Collaborations with Travis Barker—including the single Choose Life—drew significant attention. His track Don’t Look at Me has accumulated more than 51 million Spotify streams since its 2020 release on The Breakfast Club. Fans and fellow artists have turned to social media to express their sorrow, creating a virtual outpouring of tributes. Many responded to POORSTACY’s final Instagram post with heartfelt messages. One fan wrote, “We’re supposed to beat the odds together brother; I need you HERE,” while another added, “I love you so much dude; I’m still in denial—I want to call you so badly right now.”
Clipse Makes Rolling Stone’s ‘Voices Of The Year’ List
According to Rolling Stone, Clipse are among the 14 artists who “met the moment,” earning a spot on the outlet’s inaugural “Voices Of The Year” list. “Amid fraught and fractured times, the world is hungry for inspiration, and these musicians, writers, actors, comedians, and broadcasters delivered,” the outlet said. Back in July, after almost two decades, the rapping duo—comprised of brothers, Pusha T and Malice—reunited to drop off their fourth studio album, Let God Sort Em Out. Upon its release, Let God Sort Em Out put the hip-hop genre at a standstill with all eyes on the Virginia natives. The project would go on to receive critical acclaim and debut at No.4 on the Billboard 200. “…It’s an album of startling maturity and vulnerability from a duo once more accustomed to boasting; and perhaps most of all, it’s a must-listen, endlessly replayable set of songs from two seasoned veterans working in a genre that often prizes youth,” the outlet wrote. PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JUNE 01: Pusha T and No Malice of Clipse perform during Roots Picnic 2025 at The Mann at Fairmount Park on June 01, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Taylor Hill/Getty Images for Live Nation Urban) “We’re perfectionists almost to a fault sometimes,” Pusha T tells Rolling Stone For the two brothers, the project wasn’t just about bringing lyricism back into the genre, but “slamming the door on ageism in hip-hop,” Malice tells RS. He added, “That’s a stigma that probably never should have existed, and hopefully that’s done away with.” For Pusha T, the response to the project is a “testament” to how the two “look at music.” Pusha continued, “We’re perfectionists almost to a fault sometimes, but we know what we want, and I think it translated.” The elder of the two, Malice, also spoke about reuniting with his brother after taking a brief hiatus to embrace his spirituality. “It’s great to be back with my brother,” Malice says. “The level that he has kept our legacy alive — the professionalism, the taste level, just being top-tier — it made it a real nice place for me to be able to land at. To have him save a seat for me all this time the way he did is an amazing thing.”
Dame Dash Criticizes 50 Cent’s Role in Upcoming Diddy Documentary
The years-long rivalry between 50 Cent and Dame Dash reignited recently. This occurred after 50 Cent delivered a holiday-themed jab targeting Dash’s dental appearance. The feud, shaped by repeated public spats and unsuccessful attempts at reconciliation, escalated when 50 Cent took to Instagram. He called Dash a “clout-chaser.” Dash responded swiftly, drawing attention to 50 Cent’s pattern of criticizing fellow Black artists. This was especially in light of his upcoming Sean “Diddy” Combs docuseries, set to premiere December 2. In a pointed Instagram post, Dash accused 50 of “tearing down” another Black man for profit. He wrote, “Never trust a Black man that will make a documentary tearing down another Black man for a white man… that’s nasty work.” Dash’s comments sparked a broader conversation about how Black figures are portrayed in the entertainment industry. Adding another layer to the tension, Dash shared photos of 50 Cent photographing his former girlfriend, Daphne Joy, on the beach. This reference intertwines personal history with rumors about her connection to Combs. It further intensifies the dispute. View this post on Instagram 50 Cent Opens Door to Dash Amid Diddy Tensions In a surprising move, 50 Cent acknowledged some validity in Dash’s critique. He stated, “I agree with Dame [100] percent it’s better to work together.” He suggested exploring potential collaboration. However, this conciliatory gesture was tempered by his dismissal of Dash’s complaints. He cited past derogatory remarks from Cam’ron toward Dash. The feud stretches beyond personal insults, touching on unresolved criticism of both Dash and Diddy. It raises questions about why prominent figures, including Jay-Z, have largely remained silent amid public allegations. With 50 Cent’s docuseries approaching, fans and industry observers are watching closely. They are keen to see how Diddy’s legacy will be portrayed, highlighting the complex web of personality, influence, and controversy that continues to define hip-hop culture.
Detroit’s Thanksgiving Halftime Goes Big with Eminem & Jack White
In a landmark moment for Detroit sports and music, Eminem and Jack White shared the stage for the first time during the Detroit Lions’ Thanksgiving Day halftime show against the Green Bay Packers. The performance united two of the city’s most celebrated musicians in a collaboration that sent the stadium into a frenzy. Eminem, a lifelong Lions supporter, partnered with his manager, Paul Rosenberg, to orchestrate the event. Fans were treated to Jack White’s powerful set, featuring a mix of his iconic solo work and hits from his time with The White Stripes. The crowd’s energy reflected a celebration of Detroit’s enduring musical influence. The show reached new heights when Eminem made a surprise entrance, marking the pair’s first-ever performance together. Billboard coverage noted a seamless transition from White’s emotive “That’s How I’m Feeling” into a mashup pairing Eminem’s “Till I Collapse” with White’s “Hello Operator.” Social media clips quickly circulated, capturing the audience’s rapturous reaction to the historic collaboration. Eminem joins Jack White on stage for the NFL Thanksgiving Halftime Show! pic.twitter.com/gtIkusVtWR — TSN (@TSN_Sports) November 27, 2025 Eminem and White Rock Ford Field White intensified the energy with his anthem “Seven Nation Army,” reinforcing its status as a stadium classic. For many attendees, the performance offered more than entertainment—it provided a welcome break from the usual celebrity controversies surrounding Eminem, including ongoing copyright disputes. Rosenberg highlighted the significance of the collaboration, saying, “It’s an honor for us to team up with the Lions and be a part of the greatest tradition in Detroit sports. We look forward to putting together unforgettable shows featuring world-class artists for the fans at Ford Field and the tens of millions watching around the country.” Plans are already in motion for additional high-profile halftime events through 2027. Both artists recently celebrated inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame—Eminem in 2022 and White this year. During White’s ceremony, André 3000 delivered a heartfelt tribute, underscoring the close-knit connections within the music community.