Author: alaskaadmin

Cardi B is pushing to shut down a copyright lawsuit in Texas over her track “Enough (Miami),” arguing the plaintiffs never registered their song “Greasy Frybread” and can’t legally sue her in the state.

The Hip-Hop star and her record labels—Atlantic Recording Corp. and Warner Music Group—filed a motion to dismiss the case brought by Texas-based artists Sten Joddi and producer Kemikal956.

Joddi (real name Joshua Frausto) and Kemikal956 (Miguel Aguilar) released “Greasy Frybread” in 2021. The song was featured in the FX television series Reservation Dogs.

The duo claims Cardi B’s 2024 single lifted elements from their composition, specifically the melody and bassline, but not the lyrics.

But according to Cardi B’s legal team, the entire case is legally flawed from the start.

“It is black-letter law that a copyright registration is required to file a federal claim… The lack of a copyright registration therefore dooms these claims too because, as noted above, a registration is required before bringing any ‘civil action for infringement of the copyright in any United States work,’” attorney W. Andrew Pequignot wrote in the motion.

The plaintiffs originally filed a federal copyright claim, but since the work is not registered, that claim can’t move forward. They then attempted to pivot to a common-law copyright argument, which Cardi’s team claims is invalid because federal law supersedes state-level claims in these matters.

The lawsuit also includes claims of defamation, misappropriation, and unfair competition.

However, Cardi B’s attorneys argue those are just different ways of saying the same thing: that she allegedly copied their music. Since all the claims are based on that core accusation, they say the entire case is preempted by federal copyright law.

Beyond that, the Bronx rapper’s team argues that Texas courts shouldn’t be involved. Cardi B lives in New Jersey, and her labels are based in Delaware and New York.

Cardi B’s legal team also criticized the producers for repeatedly changing their claims and failing to present a consistent argument.

They asked the court to dismiss the case entirely and prevent any further amendments.

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Chrisean Rock took aim at Kehlani during a livestream this week, accusing the singer of leveraging their short-lived friendship for attention and clout after a tense fallout involving Blueface.

Rock responded to Kehlani’s recent Instagram Story, where the R&B artist denied any romantic involvement with Blueface and called the allegations “literally beneath me.”

Rock fired back, mocking Kehlani’s tone and lifestyle.

“To end it with, ‘Oh, this is beneath me. Take care of your son.’ What’s beneath you?” she questioned. “Regular people? Cuz you live in a two-bedroom apartment in downtown LA. So quit all that high-power popping it, like you some big-shot shot caller. Chill. Like, for real. Ain’t nothing beneath you.”

The tension started after a church service and gym session where Rock claimed Kehlani told her to remove her Blueface tattoo and then admitted to having a past with the rapper.

“Why did you tell me that you dealt with him before?” Chrisean Rock added that Kehlani told her Blueface is a “master manipulator” and that she understands what Rock is going through with the rapper.

Furthermore, Rock insisted Kehlani never denied the alleged hookup and instead distanced herself after Rock confronted Blueface about it.

“First of all, I don’t even care,” she continued. “I don’t deal with him. We broken up. I don’t care. But the fact that you trying to make and play a victim card…”

Kehlani Clarifies Chrisean Rock Spat

Kehlani previously addressed the situation on Instagram Stories, writing, “You don’t have to make up nasty rumors and lie on me… that doesn’t fit my timeline, agenda, and is literally beneath me.”

She added that her decision to cut ties was about protecting her peace and safety as a mother.

But Rock wasn’t buying it. She claimed Kehlani was happy to be filmed during their gym hangout and accused her of using the moment for exposure.

“You was cheesing in the camera,” she claimed. “You was fanned out. What are you talking about? You was pressed to be in the camera.”

Rock also alleged Kehlani baited her into the situation for publicity, saying, “This a promo run for her records. Like, okay, cool. You used me and said f me because what?”

Kehlani had said she wouldn’t address the issue again, writing, “I’m deading any and all nasty mess one time and one time only… This wasn’t called for. Not addressing it again!”

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Lil Woody got popped again in Atlanta this week, this time for allegedly running an illegal street racing crew that cops say is tied to rising violence in the city.

The feds say Woody was already on their radar after a similar bust last month, but now they’re hitting him with heavier charges. Authorities claim he’s not just racing cars but leading a criminal operation that has been stirring up chaos in the streets.

According to the Atlanta Police Department, Woody’s crew has been organizing late-night races that double as meetups for illegal activity, including shootings and robberies.

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Cops say this isn’t some Fast & Furious fantasy—it’s real street-level crime.

This latest arrest comes barely a month after Woody got cuffed for similar street racing charges.

Woody’s legal troubles are stacking up fast and this isn’t even his first time in the spotlight. He was a key witness in the massive YSL RICO case that had Young Thug and Gunna fighting for their freedom.

But instead of helping the case, Woody’s wild testimony and admitted lies made things worse for prosecutors.

During the trial, Woody admitted to lying under oath and flipping his story multiple times. That chaos helped derail the case, which ended in 2025 with no murder convictions.

Most of the YSL crew either walked or took plea deals.

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Back in the early 2000s, signing with a record label was the ultimate goal in hip-hop. But as we move further into 2025, the goalposts have shifted. Many of the boldest and most original voices in the game are choosing to pursue careers without the benefit of major label industry muscle. Why? Because ownership, control, and real connection are more valuable now than ever.

Streaming Levels the Playing Field

Streaming services have leveled the playing field. Where previously radio reigned supreme when it came to exposure, now Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube give even the smallest artists the chance to achieve large-scale recognition. You don’t have to have deep pockets to compete anymore, you just have to have good strategy and consistency. It’s leveled the field for artists from across the world.

Social networks have also added fuel to the fire. A 30-second video on TikTok or Instagram can launch an artist into millions of ears. Artists are turning short clips into long-term careers. More importantly, they’re creating audiences for their music. Through Discord servers, private live streams, and fan-subsidized work on Patreon, they’re creating lasting connections. These fans aren’t passive listeners. They’re active participants, helping to shape careers in exchange for first dibs on exclusive material and access to behind-the-scenes content.

The Digital Transformation

One of the most often-overlooked tools available to artists today is the VPN provider. They don’t just offer internet protection; VPNs enable artists to share music in safety, reach fans in new regions and protect their material from piracy.

For independent artists, for whom security and global access are central, the kind of digital freedom VPNs offer is invaluable.

Labels vs. Freedom

Yes, labels still provide reach and resources, but they also come with constraints. Long contract lengths, less creative control, and relinquishing ownership are now seen as serious downsides. Increasingly, artists are finding they’d rather bet on themselves. Let’s not forget the waves Frank Ocean caused when he released Endless and Blonde across a two-day span to fulfill a contract obligation.

That independence produces authentic and personal music that hasn’t had to negotiate the executive obstacle course. Some of the acts once popping the corks on signing are opting out in favor of producing something themselves, despite the additional work that this approach can involve. However, this extra work pays in the form of full control, passionate fans, and being able to take ownership of every snippet they release.

A Cultural Realignment

Music fans are listening to more than just the beats these days. They’re asking: Who owns the songs? Who benefits when I’m listening to this song on the radio? There is now a bigger push for transparency and authenticity. Fans are lining up behind artists whose values are the same ones they have.

That cultural shift is redefining the business. Independent solo acts are generating huge numbers, scoring big promo deals, and selling out shows. Brands are noticing the potential in working with these voices, voices which communicate directly to a knowledgeable, committed audience.

Conclusion

Independent hip-hop in 2025 is redefining the industry. These artists are demonstrating that you can have a successful independent career through being creative, being strategic and being true to yourself. No gatekeepers. No watered-down messages. Real music for real fans. The movement’s only just begun. It’s building steam and redefining the rules for the better.

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Actor Derek Dixon detailed disturbing allegations and his decision to go public in a new interview after suing Tyler Perry for $260 million, claiming sexual harassment and abuse of power during his time on The Oval.

The actor, who played a recurring role in Perry’s BET drama, spoke to The Hollywood Reporter in his first public remarks since filing the lawsuit. “Everyone deserves to go to work and do their job without their boss trying to have sex with them,” Dixon said.

He alleges Perry created a “coercive, sexually exploitative dynamic” by dangling promises of career opportunities in exchange for sexual favors. Dixon claims the director sent him explicit messages and also described specific incidents, including Perry allegedly groping him in a trailer and climbing into bed with him after a night of drinking.

In one instance, Dixon said he locked himself in a bathroom overnight at Perry’s home in 2021, fearing he might be raped.

Dixon Claims He Received Treats After Accusing Tyler Perry

“I was too afraid to come forward. I knew it would be awful. And I was right,” Dixon said, explaining his initial silence. “I tried to convince myself that this was part of the industry, or that I had to accept it to keep working. But eventually, I couldn’t stay silent anymore.”

He added, “I couldn’t just let him get away with this.”

Since filing the lawsuit, Dixon said he’s received threats and backlash. “This is why people, especially men, don’t come forward,” he said.

The lawsuit also claims Dixon’s character on The Oval was left in limbo as a form of pressure. He says the stress from the alleged harassment led to depression, anxiety, physical illness and a PTSD diagnosis.

Perry, through his legal team, has categorically denied all accusations, calling the lawsuit a “scam” and asserting that the claims are fabricated.

Asked whether he would consider a private settlement, Dixon said, “There are always attempts to resolve situations like this privately, but they never result in the type of change necessary to protect further victims. At the end of the day my absolute fear is that he will be able to continue doing this without any major consequences.”

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Gervonta Davis was arrested early Friday in Doral, Florida, after police say the lightweight boxing champion assaulted his ex-girlfriend during a heated custody dispute last month on Father’s Day.

On June 15, Davis went to the woman’s house to get the two children he shares with her. A dispute arose, and the boxer said he was no longer interested in taking the children.

According to the arrest report, Davis allegedly punched the woman in the head and slapped her in the face when she reached into his car to pick up their daughter.

The woman called her mother, who recorded Gervonta Davis raging and throwing a box at the victim.

The cops picked Davis up for the assault and sent him to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, where he is currently being held on a battery charge.

This isn’t the first time Davis has been in legal trouble related to alleged violence.

In 2020, he was busted on video grabbing the mother of his child by the neck at a charity basketball game in at the University of Miami. He later turned himself in and faced a misdemeanor battery charge.

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Chris Brown showed up in a London courtroom Friday morning (July 11) and pleaded not guilty to two more charges tied to that wild nightclub incident where he allegedly cracked a dude with a tequila bottle.

The courtroom was packed with about 20 supporters watching from the gallery, clearly riding for Breezy, who is now fighting accusations of assault causing actual bodily harm and carrying a weapon in public.

This all stems from a February 2023 situation at Tape nightclub where music producer Abraham Diaw says Brown went off on him.

Brown got picked up in Manchester back in May when he landed in the U.K. for his Breezy Bowl tour. Cops held him for nearly a week until he dropped a whopping $6.7 million for bai to get out.

Brown had already pleaded not guilty last month to the more serious charge—attempting to cause grievous bodily harm. His boy Hoody Baby is also charged and pleaded not guilty in connection to the fracas back in June.

Still, he didn’t let the arrest slow him down. He hit the stage in Manchester just weeks later and even joked about the whole thing.

“Thank you for coming and supporting me. And thank you to the jail… It was really nice,” Chris Brown said.

The trial’ is scheduled for October 26, 2026.

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Kid Cudi’s newest chapter in music came with an even bigger moment in his personal life. The Cleveland-born rapper and actor tied the knot with longtime partner Lola Abecassis Sartore.

The affair went down on June 28 at the luxurious Hôtel Cap-Estel on the French Riviera.

The wedding, described by the bride as a “perfect, flawless day,” was steeped in meaning, style and a deep connection to the late fashion visionary Virgil Abloh.

The couple first connected at Abloh’s debut Louis Vuitton show in Paris nearly seven years ago. “I was working behind the scenes, and Scott [Cudi] was walking the runway. Our eyes met in the chaos, and there was a silent spark. After the show, Scott walked straight up and asked for my number,” Lola told Vogue.

Fittingly, the newlyweds paid homage to the beloved designer with a bounce castle at the reception. The act was a nod to Abloh’s whimsical fashion-meets-art legacy. Musical guests BADBADNOTGOOD, who had once played at Abloh’s 2018 LV show, brought live energy to the intimate celebration.

Cudi serenaded his bride with two unreleased songs from his upcoming album Free. It was an indication of things to come.

Cudi recently unveiled the single “Grave,” teasing more musical transformation even though he’s already a genre-bender.

The wedding is a wild shift from the energy around Cudi during the Sean “Diddy” Combs trial. There was a rumored love triangle involving Cudi, Diddy and Cassie Ventura.

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The corner of 109th Street and 5th Avenue will soon carry the name of a hometown hero when it’s officially named “Isaac ‘Fatman Scoop’ Freeman III Place” in a public ceremony. The affair takes place Saturday, August 9 at 2 p.m. in Harlem, New York.

Grammy Award-winning artist Isaac “Fatman Scoop” Freeman III will be honored by his family, New York City Council Member Dr. Yusef Salaam and the Forever Fatman Scoop Foundation. Scoop was a native of Harlem and a beloved member of the Hip-Hop community.

Known worldwide for his booming voice, Scoop’s contributions to music, entertainment and community empowerment go back decades. Still, his heart has never strayed far from the block that raised him.

“Scoop has always represented Harlem with pride,” said Kendell “Sav” Freeman, his brother. “This co-naming is a tribute not just to his artistry, but to his ongoing commitment to uplifting the community that raised him.”

The ceremony is expected to draw friends, family, civic leaders and community members. All of them to convene to recognize a figure who has carried Harlem’s energy across the globe.

With hits like “Be Faithful” and multiple Grammy wins under his belt, Freeman has collaborated with some of the most prominent names in music.

Scoop’s relentless loyalty for giving back made him a figure worthy of this rare municipal honor.

Dr. Salaam’s support of the initiative also adds profound symbolism. Dr. Salaam is a member of the Exonerated Five and now a public servant. Other attendees at the co-naming will bring the same raw energy as Scoop rocking the stage.

Fatman Scoop unfortunately passed away after collapsing during a performance in Hamden, Connecticut, on August 30, 2024. Medical reports later confirmed his death was due to hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. There were no signs of foul play.

The event is open to the public.

EVENT DETAILS
Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: Corner of 109th Street & 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10029

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Young Buck can breathe a little bit before facing a jury in his assault and vandalism case—his lawyer’s health issues just bought him six months.

The rapper’s trial, originally set for July 24 in Sumner County, Tennessee, got bumped to January 12, 2026. The judge gave the green light after Buck’s attorney couldn’t move forward due to medical problems.

Cops say Buck went off during an October 2020 fight with his ex-girlfriend Lucresia Neal, wrecking property, putting his hands on Neal and trying to slam her to the ground.

Neal wasn’t quiet either. She allegedly fired warning shots at Buck and ended up getting booked herself for reckless endangerment with a weapon.

Buck was released on a $60,000 bond, but the court imposed strict conditions, including GPS tracking and regular check-ins with a bond supervisor.

Then, in 2022, Buck was arrested again for allegedly trashing Neal’s car.

According to police, he texted her, saying he was pulling up and when she didn’t answer the door, Young Buck started kicking it. After the rap star left, she found her car damaged.

Cops backed up her story with security footage. That stunt and missing meetings with his bond supervisor landed him in jail for 30 days.

Young Buck’s fans were furious at the sentence and protesters showed up to picket outside the courthouse, calling out what they say is shady behavior from local officials.

“We thank the demonstrators for their cooperation and for expressing their views in a lawful and respectful manner. Our office remains committed to ensuring public safety while safeguarding the constitutional rights of every citizen,” said Sheriff Eric Craddock after the demonstrations on behalf Buck ended.

Despite all the legal chaos, Buck’s still dropping music. He recently released a seven-track EP called Target Practice.

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