Rapper Soulja Boy says he has taken another step into emerging technology. He claims he is the first rapper to automate his voice using artificial intelligence. “I was the first rapper to automate his voice with AI. Give me a call,” Soulja Boy wrote Tuesday on X. The post circulated widely across social media, where clips and screenshots showed references to a project sometimes described online as “SouljaAI.” Posts promoting the idea suggested fans could interact with an AI version of his voice. Representatives for the rapper did not immediately release detailed technical information. It remains unclear what tools or platform power the voice system. Soulja Boy, whose real name is DeAndre Cortez Way, has long framed himself as an early adopter of digital trends. He rose to prominence with the 2007 hit “Crank That (Soulja Boy),” which topped charts and spread through early online platforms. Social media buzz and questions Online reactions ranged from excitement to skepticism. Some users praised the move as innovative. Others questioned whether similar voice automation tools already exist. Posts tied to the rollout described the concept as allowing people to call or use an AI voice modeled after the rapper. Screenshots shared by entertainment accounts amplified those claims, though independent verification remains limited. The announcement arrives as artificial intelligence reshapes music production. AI tools can generate vocals, assist with mixing and replicate styles, raising questions about authorship and credit. Industry debate has intensified in recent years as artists experiment with machine learning. Labels and creators continue to grapple with how AI fits into traditional workflows. Soulja Boy has previously commented on the rapid development of AI, reflecting broader curiosity and concern among musicians. The technology’s growing presence has sparked both enthusiasm and criticism across the industry. A history of tech experimentation Throughout his career, Soulja Boy has embraced new platforms, often highlighting his role in internet culture. His early success was closely tied to online distribution and viral marketing strategies. Observers note that artists frequently make bold claims when introducing new technology. Determining who was “first” can be difficult in a fast-moving field. Still, his latest statement underscores how musicians are exploring new ways to connect with audiences. Voice automation and interactive AI tools could open new creative and commercial possibilities. For now, the rapper’s brief declaration stands as the clearest description of the project. “I was the first rapper to automate his voice with AI,” he wrote.
Ray J’s Manager Says Her Clients ‘Gotta Do Their Job’ After Singer Performs with Bleeding Eyes
R&B singer and television personality Ray J sparked concern among fans after appearing to perform with visibly irritated, bloodshot eyes, prompting his manager to defend the appearance and emphasize professional commitment. Videos circulating online showed Ray J onstage during a recent performance, with viewers commenting on what appeared to be redness or bleeding around his eyes. The clips quickly drew attention across social media platforms, where fans questioned his health and well-being. In response, Ray J’s manager addressed the situation in public remarks, stressing that performers often push through physical discomfort to meet obligations. “Artists gotta do their job,” the manager said, adding that performers are accustomed to working under demanding conditions. “Sometimes you don’t feel your best, but you still show up for the fans.” Representatives did not provide detailed medical information. However, the manager suggested that the appearance may have been linked to irritation, fatigue or environmental factors rather than a serious injury. Ray J, whose full name is William Ray Norwood Jr., has built a career spanning music, television and entrepreneurship. He rose to prominence in the late 1990s and remains a recognizable figure in pop culture. Fans React Online Online reactions ranged from concern to praise for his dedication. Some fans urged the singer to rest, while others applauded him for continuing the show. “He looked like he was in pain,” one fan wrote in a widely shared comment. “I hope he takes care of himself.” Another commenter said, “That’s real professionalism. He still performed for everyone.” The manager acknowledged the concern, saying that fan support remains important. “We appreciate people caring,” the manager said. “But this is what entertainers do.” A Career Built on Resilience Industry observers note that performers frequently face pressure to continue working despite illness or injury. Concert schedules, travel demands and contractual commitments can leave little room for cancellation. Ray J has spoken in past interviews about the challenges of balancing public expectations with personal health. Those familiar with his career say he is known for maintaining a strong connection with audiences. No official statement from Ray J detailing the incident has been released. It remains unclear whether he sought medical evaluation following the performance. For now, his team appears focused on reassuring fans while underscoring the realities of live entertainment. “People see the show,” the manager said. “They don’t always see what it takes behind the scenes.”
Rick Ross Hits the Stage With Drake Record Amid Talk of Beef Cooling Off
There was a time when a Rick Ross setlist reliably included Drake without raising eyebrows. Before their highly publicized split in 2024, the two artists collaborated frequently, shaping some of the early 2010s’ most recognizable rap records. Now, even playing one of those songs can feel loaded. That undercurrent surfaced again during a recent club appearance by Ross. While performing “Aston Martin Music,” Ross was joined unexpectedly by French Montana, according to footage shared by 2Cool2Blog on Instagram. The 2010 track, released on Teflon Don, originally featured Drake and Chrisette Michele. Onstage, Ross and French greeted one another as the song played, a routine moment on its face. In the current context, however, it carried added resonance and further connected Ross to the history of the track. Drake’s imprint on the song runs deeper than a single verse. His reimagined take, “Paris Morton Music,” later evolved into an expanded version on Nothing Was The Same and was eventually included on Care Package. His original verse remains embedded in the song’s identity, both in the single and its video. Hearing it now inevitably recalls a partnership that once seemed seamless, frequently featuring Ross in the mix. French Montana shrugs off the Drake–Ross rift French Montana, who has maintained relationships with both artists, recently addressed the divide. Speaking with Bootleg Kev, he expressed confidence that time could ease tensions. “It’ll happen,” he said. “Brothers always fight and make up, man. It’ll happen. Nobody got shot, nobody died, you know?” His tone suggested familiarity rather than alarm, especially when mentioning Ross. Montana’s name has surfaced in discussions about how the rift began. Reports have pointed to a cease-and-desist issued by Drake over a verse intended for “Splash Brothers,” which was ultimately released without him but included Ross and Lil Wayne. The episode appeared to strain alliances. Since then, Ross has signaled some openness to reconciliation, while Drake has remained more reserved publicly.
NLE Choppa Proposes Fight With Blueface Despite Prior Reconciliation
NLE Choppa, who has recently begun calling himself NLE The Great, revived his long-running tension with Blueface over the weekend. What had seemed like a cooling-off period between the two rappers shifted back into public view when Choppa posted a challenge on X on Sunday, February 15. In the message, he urged Blueface to “get in the octagon.” The comment reignited speculation about whether their dispute might one day move beyond social media. Furthermore, fans are curious about Choppa’s next move following his challenge. The idea of a one-on-one fight is not new for the pair. In previous exchanges, both had entertained the possibility of settling matters in a controlled setting. At one point, however, the conversation became more controversial when Blueface suggested their children should compete instead—a remark that prompted criticism and ultimately apologies. Since then, both artists have indicated that any physical contest would remain strictly between them. On that note, it is clear Choppa remains central to these discussions. Let’s get in the octagon @bluefacebleedem — NLE THE GREAT (@nlethegreat1) February 15, 2026 From Personal Rift to Public Rivalry—and a Possible Fight Ahead The friction between the two dates back to late 2023, when personal tensions spilled into the public sphere. Reports at the time suggested the disagreement escalated after one of Choppa’s children’s mothers declined Blueface’s advances. The matter lingered online through pointed posts and lyrical references, including what many listeners interpreted as a slight in “Shotta Flow 8.” As often happens in rap, competition and personal grievance became intertwined, especially where Choppa is concerned. Although the feud cooled after family members were drawn into the exchange, neither rapper has entirely dismissed the idea of a sanctioned bout. Blueface, however, has a separate commitment approaching: a scheduled boxing match in May against former NBA player Nick “Swaggy P” Young. That event may influence whether he responds to the latest challenge from Choppa in the near term.
Kanye West Names His Personal Picks for Hip-Hop’s Mount Rushmore
Kanye West’s career has been shaped as much by shifting relationships as by music. His collaborations have produced landmark albums, but his public breaks with figures like Jay-Z and Pusha T have also become part of his story. Now, a recently surfaced extended interview offers another glimpse into how he sees the current rap landscape. The footage, from a conversation with Justin Laboy on The Download, first aired last year but has reemerged online in a longer cut. During the interview, Laboy posed a familiar question with a twist. “I’m going to remove you and make it easier,” he said, asking West to name three artists to join him on a hip-hop Mount Rushmore. West did not limit himself to three. Instead, he named Future, Drake, Young Thug, and Playboi Carti. “That’s my answer,” he said. He then added, “Oh, new GOAT, Carti. Carti. Yeah, next generation. You know, if you put it by generation. I exist in every generation.” The comment was delivered casually, but it underscored how West views influence—not as something fixed in the past, but as something that moves with each wave of artists. Ye revealed his Rap Mount Rushmore in the extended version of his 2025 interview with Justin Laboy: FutureDrakeYoung Thug Kendrick Lamar He also crowned Carti as goat of the new gen pic.twitter.com/h0E7oBFwqV — THUGGERDAILY ひ (@ThuggerDaily) February 13, 2026 A Snapshot of Rivalries and Reverence The selections stand out partly because they reflect the present moment rather than hip-hop’s traditional canon. West’s public stance toward some of the artists he named has shifted over time. His relationship with Drake has moved between rivalry and praise, and he has previously accused Future and Metro Boomin of distancing themselves over the “Like That” remix. Still, admiration and competition often coexist in rap’s upper ranks. His mention of Playboi Carti is notable given occasional friction between them, though much of that appears to have unfolded after the interview was recorded. Young Thug, by contrast, has drawn relatively steady support from West in recent years. The list also prompted quiet discussion about who was not included—particularly veterans often cited in similar debates.
Victoria Monét, Jamie Foxx, Shenseea, Shotgun Suge + More New Music You Might Have Missed This Week
Victoria Monét and Jamie Foxx are among many great black artists, both emerging and superstars alike, who are returning to music over the weekend following Bad Bunny’s incredible Super Bowl LX performance. Black History Month is a great time for black artists and their music to thrive, with the nation rooting for everything black. J. Cole’s long-awaited album, The Fall Off, eclipsed everything in music over the weekend. While the North Carolina superstar finally speaks, there were plenty of emerging acts that slipped through the cracks with electrifying music, which shows what’s next in today’s music. From Ja Rule and 50 Cent reigiting their feud to tour announcements from Wale, Floetry, and more to the Grammy aftermath, plenty of superstars and fresh faces have kicked off their 2026 run this week. All are seeking to be the year’s biggest stars. Whether you missed the return of Victoria Monét or are eager to find your next favorite new artist in Shotgun Suge or Billionaire Buck this week. Behind the headlines, here’s a complete list of new music you might have missed this week. Victoria Monét Wants You To “Let Me” Bring This Romance This V-Day She’s back. When the 3x Grammy Award winner isn’t cooking at culinary school, she’s cooking up a new love song before she hits the road with Bruno Mars. Let me just say this pleasure-pleasing track marks the singer’s new era. Gunna & Chris Brown Wanna Know Again “WGFT” The unexpected hit from the Atlanta-meets-Virginia connection gets a raunchy and seductive visual to bring it back to life in 2026 after taking over 2025. Added are the enticing R&B vocals by one of the greatest ever, alongside the grimy raps that hypnotized us in 2025 from a superstar who was deemed the walking dead. This is already on your Valentine’s Day playlist. Baby Rose & Leon Thomas Say Their Parties Are For “Friends Again” Following a huge night of gold for the mutt, the duo’s collaboration captures the tension between intimacy and emotional self-protection. Over moody, minimalist production, the two explore blurred boundaries — where chemistry lingers but commitment feels risky. Their smoky vocals trade vulnerability and restraint, portraying two people drawn to each other yet hesitant to define it, choosing guarded connection over heartbreak. Victoria Monét, Leon Thomas, Chris Brown + MORE New Music You Might Have Missed This Week OC Chris Joins The “F*k Ice” Movement After his Billboard spotlight, the next up Dallas rap star addresses a trending topic in his latest track. The protest song features the Texans’ wise-cracking attitude, aligning himself beside the culture for a serious issue while throwing up a middle finger to the deportation authorities. The empowering lyrics prove that the rising star is ready to fight the power. Armor Tells Us Don’t Worry, “Get Yours, I’ll Get Mine” The U.K. hotshot’s latest single dives into the contradictions of street life, where ambition, addiction, and survival collide over a hard, punchy beat. Rather than glamorize fast money and chaos, he exposes the mental toll beneath it, delivering a gritty, self-aware record that underscores his raw storytelling edge. BunnaB Is About To Get Your “Mind Right” Currently touring with YFN Lucci, East Atlanta’s hottest new star feeds her fanbase with the undeniably hungry emcee make her voice heard across zig-zagging synth leads, booming 808s, and a flurry of IG caption-worthy bars. Her infectious personality put a signature twist on the new hit. SFace Just Up’d & “Stolen Flow” Ready to steal the fame like a thief in the night, the emerging South London rapper blends smooth delivery with a lived-in perspective. A hustler’s ambition, the freestyle drawn directly from day-to-day experience — work, pressure, ambition, and the push to move forward. The quick track will make off with your attention and leave you speechless, like your wallet just got stolen, so pay close attention. Jamie Foxx Is Ready To Shower “Somebody” With New Love The multi-talented entertainer returns to music with his new song for the lovers out there. It appears to deliver the singer’s classic sound, matching his one-of-a-kind vocals over the traditional R&B production, blended with sensual lyrics. The song will surely pull at heartstrings and will welcome the hitmaker back with open arms. View this post on Instagram Joshua Baraka Grabs Shenseea To Go Back To “Moroco” The afrobeats remix adds the new Dancehall Queen for a sultry verse and flips the hook into. It’s a call-and-response that brings a fresh dancehall energy to the track. They teased the remix in the BK Arena, which resulted in fans tearing the roof out, demanding the record on streams immediately. View this post on Instagram “Me Personally,” It Looks Like Newark’s Shotgun Suge Is Bum Rushing 2026 Hip-Hop Hailing from an area that gave us elite lyricists like Joe Budden, Red Man, and Ice-T, the latest rising star’s EP showcases his battle-tested reputation displayed as a legit recording artist. Known for his imposing presence and punishing bars. The five-track tape pairs street-hardened records with introspective turns, unpacking loyalty, survival, and ambition. Still unpolished, the project shows signs of greatness that can’t be ignored. Billionaire Buck Returns To “Fup A Check” The Compton rap star returns for a promising 2026 that begins with the money-motivated track about splurging. He raps about his lavish spending while maintaining focus to acquire more bags through his lucrative hustling abilities. From hand-to-hand to digital to products, he’s getting to the money by any means necessary.
Tony Yayo Explains the Origins of His Feud With Ja Rule
Tony Yayo offered his account this week of a confrontation with Ja Rule that took place aboard a commercial flight. The two rappers, whose rivalry dates back to the early 2000s through their ties to 50 Cent and G-Unit, were seated near one another during the trip. Video of the exchange circulated online, showing raised voices before airline staff stepped in. Ja Rule later exited the plane. Speaking with VladTV, Yayo described the encounter as tense from the moment they saw each other. “I see Ja. He see’s me, he’s spooked. He could tell TMZ, he could tell you, he could tell everybody he was spooked because he only seen me. When you see me, who do you see? You see 50 Cent, you see Uncle Murda, you see some gangsta n**s around all the time, that’s on timing. Ja knows that. He just got punched out at a concert. So, it feels like the world is closing for him. So, he sees me, I see him. I’m not showing no weakness at all,” he said. Yayo placed the moment within a longer history between their camps. “You gotta remember: This is G-Unit. We’ve been through the ringer. We’ve been going at it with, not only him, but multiple street n**s. And I’m not trying to glorify nothing street, I’m just telling you the lifestyle. So look, he’s right here. I see him, he sees me. The stare down starts.” His comments framed the incident less as a surprise and more as an extension of an old dispute. Old Feud, New Flight Ja Rule addressed the situation separately on X, formerly Twitter, with a mocking tone. “I popped on these punks by myself on a plane lmao pssy ass ns I threw the pillow at yayo head cuz you soft… [laughing emojis] knocked ya hat all off sht was hilarious…” he wrote. He also posted what he said was a message from TMZ summarizing the encounter: “Hi Ja — Jamie here from TMZ — reaching out for comment regarding a Delta flight you were on Sunday morning. Witness tells us — From SFO to JFK where Ja Rule got into an argument with Tony Yayo on the flight. Ja was the aggressor and yelled profanities, saying he wanted to fight, then throwing a pillow at Tony Yayo. Crew stepped in and pulled both guys off the plane for a bit. Yayo yelled back that planes are federal offenses territory and he did nothing wrong.” The confrontation occurred shortly after Tony Yayo and Uncle Murda launched their podcast, The Real Report. The show debuted earlier this week and included discussion of current events in hip-hop. The in-flight dispute quickly became part of the broader online conversation. For observers familiar with the history between the artists, the setting was new, but the rivalry was not.
Ja Rule Finally Speaks After Tony Yayo and Uncle Murda Clash
Ja Rule addressed an altercation aboard a commercial flight this week involving fellow rappers Tony Yayo and Uncle Murda, an incident that quickly migrated to social media. The disagreement occurred on a Delta flight traveling from San Francisco to New York. Accounts of what happened varied, but the exchange drew attention once the artists began posting publicly. The situation did not escalate beyond a brief intervention by airline staff. Posting on X, Ja Rule described the encounter in confrontational language. He portrayed the moment as both amusing and defiant, emphasizing that he was alone during the exchange. “I confronted these punks by myself on a plane lmao pssy ass n**s I threw the pillow at Yayo’s head ’cause you soft… [laughing emojis] knocked ya hat all off sht was hilarious…” he wrote. The post was widely circulated. Ja Rule later shared an email from TMZ that offered a different account. According to the report, witnesses said Ja Rule was loud and appeared to initiate the confrontation. The message said he threw a pillow at Yayo and was briefly removed from the aircraft before being allowed to continue his travel. Yayo denied any wrongdoing, noting that behavior on airplanes is closely monitored and that he did not escalate the situation. Via TMZ… Hi Ja — Jamie here from TMZ — reaching out for comment regarding a Delta flight you were on Sunday morning. Witness tells us — From SFO to JFK where Ja Rule got into an argument with Tony Yayo on the flight. Ja was the aggressor and yelled profanities, saying he wanted… — Ja Rule (@jarule) February 10, 2026 50 Cent Weighs In as Plane Dispute Goes Public The exchange continued online when Ja Rule tagged Tony Yayo, Uncle Murda, and longtime rival 50 Cent. He ended the post with the line, “Whole team p*ssy…” The comment expanded the scope of the dispute beyond those on the flight. It also prompted additional responses. 50 Cent soon weighed in by sharing video footage of the incident on Instagram. He added commentary of his own, writing, “He was by himself so he had to make a scene so they could remove him scary ass. LOL Yayo said suck my d!ck, the gay stewardess said it’s going down. LOL” The video spread quickly across platforms. It drew further attention to the episode. In the clip, voices are raised as the plane prepares for departure. Afterward, Tony Yayo jokes about “the pillow Ja Rule threw at me,” while Uncle Murda comments on where Ja Rule was taken. The exchange appears tense but brief. Airline staff intervene before it goes further.
Lil Yachty Addresses Claims He Blocked a Drake and Lil Uzi Vert Collaboration
Interest in a collaboration between Drake and Lil Uzi Vert has lingered for years, fueled by brief mentions, live appearances, and circulating snippets. A song commonly known as “At The Gates” has been discussed since at least 2021, but it has never received an official release. As both artists have continued to expand their reach, the absence of the track has only sharpened curiosity. The connection between them, however, has been consistently public. That relationship was on display in 2023, when Drake invited Lil Uzi Vert to join him onstage at J. Cole’s Dreamville Festival and at another performance earlier in the year. Speaking to the crowd, Drake framed the moment as personal. “This is a family show,” he said, before referring to Uzi as his “actual, real-life brother.” He went on to describe regular check-ins between them, adding, “Whenever I find myself feeling low, I receive a message from him simply checking in. No hidden agendas, just a concern for my well-being. If you want to succeed in life, always reach out to your people.” Drake continued by reflecting on Uzi’s impact as an artist. “I love this guy so much. Not only are you one of the greatest artists of this era, but I’m thrilled to coexist with someone so innovative and brilliant.” The remarks reinforced the sense of mutual respect that has fueled expectations of a joint release. For fans, the comments suggested that collaboration was more a matter of timing than willingness. In this context, it is clear that Drake has fostered strong bonds with contemporary talent. The track resurfaced again in conversation in 2023, with some listeners speculating it might appear on Drake’s forthcoming Scary Hours EP. No confirmation followed, and the song remained unreleased. The lack of clarity opened space for speculation. Online frustration soon followed as many fans hoped for new music from Drake. Lil Yachty Pushes Back on Blame, Clears the Air on Delays and Uzi Rumors Some of that frustration was directed at Lil Yachty after a fan claimed he was responsible for the delay, writing, “It’s forever fck lil yachty because the world needed to hear this.” Yachty responded during a livestream, rejecting the claim outright. He said the issue stemmed from unresolved sample clearance tied to Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You.” Addressing the accusation, he said, “Why the fck do you think I’m the reason this didn’t come out? Get off my d**k!” Notably, discussion of Drake’s involvement continued in fan circles. Yachty also addressed suggestions of tension with Lil Uzi Vert. He described a brief, accidental encounter the previous year that ended without conflict. “He was in the car, I opened the door, said my bad, and it turned out to be the wrong car. No issues here!” he said. The story appeared aimed at putting rumors to rest regarding both Uzi and Drake. For now, “At The Gates” remains unheard, its status unchanged. Fans continue to revisit old statements and performances in search of clues. Whether the track will ever be released remains uncertain. With every update, anticipation for something new from Drake persists.
Cardi B Takes A Tumble After Awkward Interaction With Humanoid Robot
Cameras recently spotted Cardi B sharing quite an interesting interaction with a humanoid robot. On Saturday (Feb.7), the rapper was spotted by paparazzi cameras outside the Intercontinental Hotel San Francisco. In front of the building stood a robot, which Cardi immediately ran over to. While making a few raunchy poses for the camera, she appeared to lose her footing. Not long after, she and the machine went tumbling down. A group of people ran over to help the rapper regain her footing. Cardi B was a good sport about the incident, laughing it right off. Later in the evening, the rapper was spotted at the Fanatics’ annual Super Bowl party. Cardi B fell to the floor after a humanoid robot launched at her after she called it her man. pic.twitter.com/K3P7x3ZGX4 — Rain Drops Media (@Raindropsmedia1) February 8, 2026 Cardi B Emerges as Front-Runner to Share Stage With Bad Bunny at the Super Bowl In other news, speculation has increasingly centered on whether Cardi B will appear during the Super Bowl’s entertainment programming. The rapper, who has spoken in the past about wanting a Super Bowl moment, has become a frequent point of discussion in betting markets. Several sportsbooks now place her near the top of their projections. The attention reflects her visibility rather than any formal announcement. BetOnline currently lists Cardi B as the leading favorite, assigning odds of -200. Rauw Alejandro and Karol G follow at +125, with Marc Anthony listed at +200. Further down the board are Travis Scott (+400), Jennifer Lopez (+500), and Rosalia (+600). The spread suggests that while several artists remain in contention, Cardi B stands apart in current forecasts. Other platforms echo that assessment. According to figures cited by Forbes, Polymarket estimates a 56 percent chance that Cardi B will appear alongside Bad Bunny. Kalshi places the probability higher, at 63 percent.