Category: News Feeds

British rap icon Giggs used his platform on BBC’s “Newsnight” to speak openly about his autism diagnosis and the urgent need for stronger support systems for children with special educational needs, including his own two young kids.

The South London rapper expressed concern for his 5-year-old daughter Isla and 9-year-old son Israel, both of whom are navigating life with autism.

He warned that without proper Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) resources in schools, their futures could mirror the struggles he faced growing up.

“In school, I didn’t get any support, so I was always getting in trouble,” he said, explaining how his “impulsive” behavior led to frequent disciplinary issues and the conclusion, “I was good at being bad.”

That lack of support had long-term consequences. “You take that through life,” he said, referencing the path that led him to serve two prison sentences before finding direction in music.

He credits his rap career with turning his life around and said he hopes his son doesn’t have to rely on hardship to shape his own journey.

The “Talkin da Hardest” rapper posted a clip of the interview to Instagram with a direct message in the caption: “MORE SUPPORT IS NEEDED.”

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Giggs Reveals Autism Diagnosis

This isn’t the first time Giggs has spoken publicly about living with autism. On the “90s Baby” podcast, he recalled feeling “different, special, gifted” as a child, but not understanding why until his diagnosis.

He said the lack of awareness and resources at the time left him without the tools to succeed in school.

His adult son, ML, is also on the autism spectrum and has followed in his father’s footsteps as a musician. ML has also spoken about how autism influences his creativity and everyday life.

Giggs said that finally receiving a diagnosis helped things “make sense” but also highlighted how little support existed for kids like him growing up.

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He’s now using his visibility to draw attention to the broader issue of undiagnosed and unsupported autistic children in the UK.

Meanwhile, Giggs is set to headline the final night of the Somerset House Summer Series 2025 with a special “Giggs & Family” performance on Sunday, July 20. It will be his first headlining show in London in more than six years.

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Mello Buckzz’s dad kept selling firearms even after a mass shooting outside his daughter’s album release party left four people dead and 14 wounded, federal prosecutors said.

Melvin Doyle, 45, was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm after allegedly selling 13 guns to undercover informants between May 20 and July 7, according to a federal complaint.

One of those transactions happened just days after the July 2 shooting outside Artis Lounge in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, where Mello Buckzz had hosted a private event.

Authorities said Doyle, who has prior felony convictions for attempted murder and drug trafficking, was legally barred from owning or selling any firearms.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) launched an investigation in May after receiving tips that Doyle was dealing guns.

Agents used confidential informants to arrange and record multiple buys from Doyle, including one at his home on the 5800 block of South Martin Luther King Drive.

Investigators have not linked Doyle’s weapons to the shooting, and no suspects have been arrested in the case.

Doyle’s criminal history includes a 1998 conviction for attempted murder, a 2003 conviction for manufacturing and delivering controlled substances, and a 2006 conviction for heroin distribution.

Those convictions make it illegal for him to possess or sell firearms. Prosecutors say the gun sales were all captured on audio and video.

Police are still on the hunt for multiple gunmen who opened fire in front of Mello Buckzz’s mixtape release party.

They shot from a dark-colored vehicle around 1:30 a.m. July 2, targeting a crowd outside the club. The shooters fled the scene, and detectives believe the attack may have been retaliatory.

A $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to arrests.

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In a city celebrated for its vibrant culture and discerning taste, it takes something special for a new business to create a genuine buzz. The Austin cannabis scene is full of options, but a new destination in the St. Elmo District is proving that there’s still room for a truly thoughtful and elevated experience. 

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THC Dispensary Austin Lounge, also known as The High Company, has opened its doors with a clear and compelling vision. The establishment is a thoughtfully designed social and cultural hub built around a premium cannabis experience, and it’s already becoming a favorite for those in the know.

The reason for its growing popularity is straightforward: The High Company provides the sophisticated yet completely relaxed Cannabis Lounge Austin locals and visitors have been seeking. 

They’ve seamlessly blended a top-tier dispensary with a space designed for community, discovery, and connection. It’s an innovative and essential addition to the city, providing a destination for newcomers and seasoned connoisseurs to explore the best of Austin’s cannabis culture.

The Atmosphere: A New Standard for Cannabis Spaces

The first thing that strikes you upon entering The High Company is the atmosphere. There is a clear sense of intention in the design. The space manages to be both modern and comfortable, stylish and welcoming, sidestepping the sterile feel of some dispensaries and the cluttered chaos of others. They’ve described it as a “cannabis oasis,” and frankly, that’s exactly what it feels like.

The aesthetic is a unique and effective blend of styles. You can feel a hint of classic “roaring twenties” charm in the rich textures and elegant fixtures, which is then balanced by a clean, modern sensibility that is pure Austin. The walls serve as a rotating gallery for local Austin artists, grounding the dispensary in the city’s rich creative spirit. 

This isn’t just decoration; it’s a statement that signals a deep value for culture and community. The result is a polished backdrop that encourages you to slow down, browse, and have a real conversation.

The Menu: A Curated Approach to Quality

A great environment requires exceptional products to match, and the philosophy here is clearly quality over clutter. The menu at this Austin cannabis dispensary feels handpicked by people who are genuinely passionate about the plant. It’s a focused collection that showcases a deep respect for both cannabis and the people who enjoy it.

Their commitment to sourcing is a key part of this. The High Company has built strong relationships with some of Austin’s most renowned master gardeners and top local suppliers, ensuring their selection is always top-tier. The flower menu, for instance, features beloved classic strains right alongside interesting and rare cultivars that will impress even seasoned enthusiasts. 

This curation extends across their entire menu. The edibles, concentrates, and cannabis-infused beverages are all chosen with a sharp eye for excellence, favoring reliable effects and superior ingredients over novelty.

The Human Element: Guidance, Not Gatekeeping

Perhaps the most crucial element to The High Company’s success is the human experience they provide. The staff here operates with a level of warmth and professionalism that is truly noteworthy. They are aptly named “cannabis counselors,” and they function as passionate, knowledgeable guides for your journey.

Interactions are relaxed, informative, and refreshingly devoid of pressure. The budtenders are skilled at having nuanced conversations about what you’re looking for, whether it’s a specific terpene profile, advice on dosing, or understanding different consumption methods. 

They excel at demystifying cannabis for newcomers and geeking out with experts. This dedication to a superior customer experience is a core reason why word-of-mouth has been so powerful for this new spot, solidifying its reputation as a contender for the best dispensary in Austin.

The Lounge: The Future of Cannabis Culture in Texas

Image Credit: THC Dispensary Austin Lounge

What truly sets The High Company apart and fuels the city-wide buzz is its ambitious vision for the future: the creation of Austin’s first truly elevated cannabis lounge. This concept is central to the brand’s identity and its commitment to building a real community.

The plan is to create a high-end, ridiculously comfortable space where guests can unwind and connect. The vision includes a full calendar of intimate live music events featuring local Austin artists, creating a much-needed new venue for the city’s talent. 

They also plan to host educational classes and workshops, covering everything from “Cannabis 101” for beginners to deep dives into cultivation and infused gourmet pairings for the connoisseur. This forward-thinking concept—a dedicated, stylish cannabis lounge in Texas—is what makes The High Company a true destination.

How to Visit: A Quick Guide to Your First Trip

Image Credit: THC Dispensary Austin Lounge

Ready to check it out for yourself? The experience at The High Company is designed to be straightforward and enjoyable from start to finish. Here’s a quick guide on what to expect.

First, you’ll find the THC Dispensary Austin Lounge conveniently located in the St. Elmo District with plenty of parking, making the trip easy. When you arrive, the only thing you’ll need is a valid government-issued ID showing you are 21 years of age or older.

Once inside, you’re free to explore. You can browse their full menu on your own, or you can connect with one of their friendly cannabis counselors who can guide you through the selection. While all purchases are completed in person, you can view their entire, up-to-date menu on their website before you visit. 

This is a great way to see what’s in stock and get an idea of what you might like to explore further when you get there.

The Verdict

THC Dispensary Austin Lounge is a smart, well-executed addition to the city’s landscape. It succeeds by seamlessly blending a high-end atmosphere with a down-to-earth, welcoming attitude. It’s a place that respects the intelligence of its customers, celebrates local culture, and is deeply committed to providing a superior experience.

In a scene that is constantly evolving, The High Company feels like the future. It understands that the culture surrounding cannabis is just as important as the product itself. For all those reasons, it is a place that is not just worth visiting, but worth watching.

If you’re ready to see what the next generation of the Austin cannabis experience looks like, a visit is highly recommended.

Here is the new section to add to the end of the article:

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Plan Your Visit

Ready to experience The High Company for yourself? 

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to this standout Austin dispensary.

• Location:
  440 E. St. Elmo Rd STE B-1, Austin, TX 78745
• Hours:
  Open Daily: 10 AM – 10 PM
• Phone:
  512-575-2222
• Website:
  www.thehighcoatx.com

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Faith Evans is accused of enriching herself from a fat $100 million deal involving The Notorious B.I.G. and now Biggie’s fam is dragging her to court, claiming she’s been hoarding the bag.

According to documents filed in Delaware and unsealed July 8, Faith Evans is being sued by the estate of Biggie’s late mom, Voletta Wallace, for allegedly keeping the trust’s cut of the massive catalog sale to Primary Wave.

The suit says she cut out the trust from both the money and the business side of things after Voletta passed in February.

Wayne Barrow, who manages the trust, is calling foul. He says Evans became the sole manager of Biggie’s estate after Voletta died and has been moving shady ever since.

The lawsuit claims she’s been handing out checks to Biggie’s kids, Ty’anna and CJ, and probably herself, but skipped the trust.

“Ms. Evans has distributed sale proceeds to Ty’anna, CJ, and presumably to herself,” Barrow wrote. “She, however, has wrongfully withheld the Trust’s share of the proceeds, in the amount of [redacted],” Billboard reported.

Barrow also says she’s been ghosting him on all business matters and acting like the trust doesn’t even exist.

“Ms. Evans’s actions are particularly troubling given that, unlike Mr. Barrow, she has never previously been involved in the LLC’s management,” the petition reads.

He’s now asking the court to force Faith Evans to cough up the trust’s share of the sale. Barrow says the money is supposed to go to the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation.

He also wants her booted as manager of the LLC and wants the court to let him take over.

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Independent artists C‑Tru and Marina have struck a powerful chord with their latest single “My Spirit Fights On,” a raw, emotional track that just climbed to #1 – not through gimmicks or virality, but through truth.

The track was born from a conversation between C‑Tru, a seasoned rapper/producer known for collaborations with Snoop Dogg and DMX, and Marina, a survivor of abuse in the foster system. What started as her personal story became a rallying cry for others. “This one wasn’t just about making music,” said C‑Tru. “It was about doing justice to a story that’s been ignored for too long.”

C‑Tru, with four #1 albums already under his belt, says this moment feels different. The song’s message – about survival, injustice, and healing – has resonated deeply with listeners, especially survivors who have flooded Marina’s inbox with messages of connection and gratitude.

“For years I didn’t have a voice,” said Marina. “To see this song not just reach people, but be heard – it’s overwhelming. That #1 means our pain is being acknowledged.”

Featuring vocals from singer Tariah, the song’s impact has grown far beyond charts. Marina says one message from a young girl who said she finally believes she can heal stands out more than any accolade.

The duo is already working on a remix with a European artist to widen the reach. Marina, originally from Austria, hopes to bring in German rap legend Sido to further amplify the message.

Beyond the music, Marina is planning a film project to tell her full story and build a broader movement focused on survivor support and system reform.

“My Spirit Fights On” is more than a #1 single. It’s a moment of reckoning and proof that music rooted in truth can still cut through.

Watch the official music video for My Spirit Fights On on Marina’s Mission YouTube channel, and follow Marina’s Mission on Instagram for updates on the movement. You can also follow C-Tru on Instagram and stream his music on Spotify.

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LiAngelo Ball filed for divorce from Rashida Nicole in California just one week after she publicly announced she was expecting their child, according to court documents obtained by TMZ Sports.

The former basketball player-turned-rapper, known for his track “Tweaker,” married Nicole on March 24 and listed their separation date as June 15. The filing cites “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for the split. Ball is requesting joint custody and visitation rights.

Nicole’s pregnancy reveal came only seven days before the divorce paperwork was submitted. The timing raised eyebrows online, but Ball didn’t seem fazed by the public reaction.

“When people conversate about my personal life, it don’t touch me or bother me too much. Like I see it, of course, because, you know, everybody got a phone, but it don’t rub me the wrong way or nothing because nobody really go what I go through every day. You not me, for real. So it don’t mean s**t, for real,” Ball told Billboard News.

This isn’t the first time Ball’s personal life has made headlines. In March, Nikki Mudarris—the mother of his other children—claimed he walked out on their family shortly after the birth of their second child.

“We spent three and a half years together, and last week he decided to walk out on his kids and tell me he got someone else pregnant (allegedly) and now is creating a new life with her,” Mudarris wrote in a now-viral Instagram post.

Ball has not publicly responded to Mudarris’ claims.

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