#MAGFAB: Marrakech-born Beauty Rania Benchegra Covers Vogue Arabia January 2024
With its January 2024 issue, Vogue Arabia is kickstarting the year with all things new and exciting — beginning with this month’s cover star, a rising model who is taking the fashion world by storm one runway at a time. Meet Moroccan beauty Rania Benchegra, who first caught the world’s attention during 2023’s Vogue Open Casting, and has already walked for the likes of Louis Vuitton, Schiaparelli, and Versace.
Born and raised in the Medina of Marrakech, Benchegra started modeling at age five, when she was invited to shoot for a French brand in Morocco. “My dad thought it would be a great experience,” she says. “Little did he know that it would define my future.” Today, she’s the freshest face in the fashion world, identified by her flawless olive complexion, delicate features, and glossy raven mane, all complemented by her striking walk. “Every opportunity to walk in a fashion show feels like a dream,” she reveals. “The big names were always a fantasy for me, and I was lucky enough to walk these this year. Some other bucket list fashion shows would be Chanel and Bottega Veneta.”
An avid surfer, philanthropist, and cinema enthusiast (Benchegra also happens to hold a degree in film), our January 2024 cover star’s journey has just begun, and she hopes to use her platform to uplift people as she continues to grow. “I will always make sure to give back to my community and remember where I came from,” she shares. “There are a lot of inspiring people and creatives from our part of the world, and I think that if we started to work more collaboratively and really focus on building and growing together, we could create something really powerful and beautiful.”
#RHOA: Todd Tucker Shares an Update on Restaurant Empire with Kandi: “Teamwork Makes the Dream Work”
It’s no secret that Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker are Atlanta’s very own power couple. Not only are they loving parents to four children: Riley Burruss, Kaela Tucker, Ace Tucker, and Blaze Tucker, but they also co-head a massive business empire that spans entertainment, lifestyle products, and restaurants.
During Season 8 of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Kandi and Todd discussed the possibility of opening a family restaurant. However, it wasn't until Season 9 of the series that the couple finally opened the Old Lady Gang for business.
Since then, Kandi and Todd have expanded their presence by opening another restaurant, Blaze Steak and Seafood, fittingly named after Kandi and Todd’s daughter, Blaze (keep scrolling to find out what Blaze has been up to these days as well).
Most recently, Todd provided an update on his and Kandi’s flourishing restaurant empire and even shared how their baby girl got the Burruss-Tucker family ready for the holiday season.
On December 24, Todd took to his Instagram feed to express his gratitude towards his and Kandi’s restaurant staff ahead of the holidays. In the Instagram post, Todd shared a group photo of himself and his wife posing with the team. “Teamwork makes the dream work,” Todd captioned the post. “I want to say thank you to the [Burruss-Tucker] restaurant group team for all the hard work!”
Based on the photo, it seems that Kandi and Todd threw a holiday party for their employees, as some of the guests were dressed in festive attire. Among the attendees was Kandi’s right-hand man and general manager of Kandi Koated Entertainment, DonJuan Clark. "Happy Holidays," Todd concluded on the post.
Speaking of holiday cheer, Kandi and Todd’s 3-year-old daughter kicked off the December festive season by performing in her first Christmas-themed dance program.
Of course, Blaze’s recent milestone was a family-studded event as both parents were in the audience showing their support along with Mama Joyce Jones, Riley, Ace, Kandi’s friend Carmon Cambrice, and Kandi’s dad Titus Burruss Jr.
Todd posted an excerpt from the special day as he shared a snapshot of himself holding Blaze in her adorable red and white costume with the caption, “Me and my baby [Blaze Tucker] she did a great job at her first dance recital.”
Kandi shared her own post on social media with a series of photos from the memorable day. “The family had to come out [and] support [Blaze Tucker] on her first dance recital,” Kandi wrote in her December 16 Instagram post.
#MusicNews: Barack Obama Shares His Favorite Songs of 2023
"Let me know if there are any artists or songs I should check out," the former POTUS wrote.
Barack Obama is taking the aux. With just three days left of 2023, the former president of the United States revealed which tunes he was grooving to the most over the past year, featuring pop music, country, R&B and more.
The annual list comes on the heels of Obama’s yearly book and movie favorites, which the ex-POTUS shared earlier this week. In 2023, he had exactly 28 tracks on repeat, with highlights including “TQG” by Karol G and Shakira, “I Remember Everything” by Zach Bryan feat. Kacey Musgraves, “Sprinter” by Dave and Central Cee and “America Has a Problem” by Beyoncé feat. Kendrick Lamar.
The A Promised Land author also included Megan Thee Stallion’s “Cobra,” Tyla’s “Water,” Mitski’s “My Love Mine All Mine” and Victoria Monét’s “On My Mama.” “Here are some of my favorite songs from this year,” he wrote on Instagram Friday (Dec. 29). “Let me know if there are any artists or songs I should check out.”
Mr. Obama’s music taste has long been known to be diverse, as documented by his song lists over the past few years. In 2022, he shouted out music from artists such as Lizzo, Rosalía, Ari Lennox, Ethel Cain, Steve Lacy and Omar Apollo. A few — Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, Zach Bryan — were featured on both his 2022 and 2023 playlists.
The 44th prez also typically shares his favorite songs of the summer every year, with his seasonal jams of 2023 including Boygenius, Ice Spice, Luke Bryan, Nicki Minaj and Leonard Cohen.
See Obama’s full 2023 favorite songs list below:
Cool!
#HipHopNews: Kid Capri Announces That He’s Cancer-Free After Private Year-Long Battle
Kid Capri has revealed that, while being active in this year’s Hip Hop 50 festivities, he faced and overcame a cancer diagnosis.
On Saturday (December 30), the award-winning DJ (real name David Anthony Love Jr.) took to social media where he shared that, after a year-long battle with cancer, he has been given a clean bill of health. He also explained why fans are just learning about his health concerns.
“God is great! 3 days ago, I found out that I’m cancer free! Been dealing with it all year while I was doing everything I was doing for hip hop 50,” he began. “I had 2 surgeries and never said anything publicly about what I was going through, I’m not an attention whore, so I didn’t want to say anything, so that it didn’t look like i wanted pity.”
He continued, “But now that it’s over, I figure I let my fans and friends know, I’m very happy, this year I did a lot, but come 2024, I’m getting even crazier than I did in 2023!! Thank you God! #kidcapri #partyking #therealLOVE #happynewyear #happyholidays.”
The news garnered overwhelming support from notable figures such as Doug E. Fresh, Fat Joe, Busta Rhymes, Big Boi, and many more.
“YOU HAVE SO MUCH MORE OF GODS WORK TO DO MY BRO. BLESSINGS TO YOU AND YOUR BEAUTIFUL FAMILY202more [fire emoji],” commented Doug E. Fresh.
Fat Joe also slid into the comment section to show love, writing: “God bless you we love you Capri [praying hands].”
“To God be the glory and salute to you for walking in your own way with this. Whether we knew or not, the people love you man. [salute emoji],” wrote radio host and TV personality, Headkrack.
Meanwhile, Busta Rhymes and Big Boi opted for a series of emojis including raised hands and a crown.
In August, the NYC native hit the stage to perform at Yankee Stadium’s Hip Hop 50 concert. To fans’ surprise, he was joined by former New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter, who fired up the crowd in the stadium he once called home.
Other performers at the star-studded show included the reuniting of Wu-Tang Clan, Nas, Lauryn Hill, Snoop Dogg, Lil Wayne, Ice Cube, Fat Joe, Lupe Fiasco, Eve, Lil Kim, Remy Ma and Trina.
The concert also paid homage to trailblazers who helped pave the way like Kurtis Blow, Kool Herc, Grandmaster Caz, Roxanne Shante, Melle Mel, and the Sugarhill Gang.
The Tap Dance Icon Maurice Hines, Dies at 80
Maurice Hines, older brother of Gregory Hines has died. He was 80. The Broadway dancer, choreographer and actor passed away on Friday (Dec. 29) of natural causes at the Actors Fund Home in Englewood, N.J., according to his cousin and representative, Richard Nurse, The Hollywood Reporter reports.
Hines received a Tony Award nomination in 1986 for best actor in a musical for Uptown… It’s Hot and was featured again on Broadway in 2006’s Hot Feet. Hines conceived, directed and choreographed both productions.
Born on Dec. 13, 1943, in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City, Hines studied tap with Henry LeTang in NYC and was fascinated by the acrobatics of the Nicholas Brothers. He made his professional debut at around 6 years old alongside brother Gregory as the tap-dancing Hines Kids on Broadway in 1954, according to THR.
They later became known as the Hines Brothers and then Hines, Hines & Dad after their father, Maurice Sr., joined in 1963. The trio became regulars at New York’s Apollo Theater, and also performed in clubs across the U.S. and Europe.
After Gregory went solo in the early 1970s, Maurice joined the national tour of Guys and Dolls and reunited with his brother for Eubie! on Broadway in 1979. In 1982, Maurice stepped in for Gregory in the Broadway musical Sophisticated Ladies and he also appeared in the national tour of Jelly’s Last Jam.
The siblings later joined forces as the feuding Williams Brothers in Coppola’s 1984 crime drama The Cotton Club, which also starred Richard Gere and Diane Lane.
The 2019 documentary Maurice Hines: Bring Them Back highlights a falling out between the Hines brothers, who didn’t speak for 10 years “for reasons that Maurice refuses to discuss to this day. He provides no explanation in the film, but instead takes every opportunity to praise Gregory and say how much he loved him,” according to a THR review of the film.
“Nonetheless, the lingering emotional pain of their rift is deeply evident in such moments as Maurice sadly remembering that they didn’t even speak to each at their mother’s wedding, to her great distress. The film includes footage of Gregory’s Tony Award acceptance speech [for Jelly’s Last Jam in 1992], in which he pointedly thanks everyone in his family except his brother. He even takes pains, when mentioning his father, to add “Sr.” so nobody misunderstands.”
The brothers made up before Gregory died of cancer at age 57 in 2003, according to THR.
Maurice is survived by his nephew, Zach, and niece, Daria.
Toni Braxton And Birdman DID NOT Get Married!
Did Toni Braxton and Birdman get married? According to Toni, the answer is flat-out and unequivocally no. The notoriously private singer rushed to her official Instagram page to shut down the chatter. “My dear friend Birdman and I are not married. [We’ve] never been married. We are both single,” wrote Toni.
Not only are the pair not husband and wife, but based on Toni’s note, the duo are no longer dating. Toni and Birdman established a working relationship in 2022 after working on the song “Baby You Can Do It.” Their friendship remained over the decade until they took things to another level in 2016, when they confirmed their relationship. By 2018, they were engaged. It is unclear when they officially split.
Born and raised in the Medina of Marrakech, Benchegra started modeling at age five, when she was invited to shoot for a French brand in Morocco. “My dad thought it would be a great experience,” she says. “Little did he know that it would define my future.” Today, she’s the freshest face in the fashion world, identified by her flawless olive complexion, delicate features, and glossy raven mane, all complemented by her striking walk. “Every opportunity to walk in a fashion show feels like a dream,” she reveals. “The big names were always a fantasy for me, and I was lucky enough to walk these this year. Some other bucket list fashion shows would be Chanel and Bottega Veneta.”
An avid surfer, philanthropist, and cinema enthusiast (Benchegra also happens to hold a degree in film), our January 2024 cover star’s journey has just begun, and she hopes to use her platform to uplift people as she continues to grow. “I will always make sure to give back to my community and remember where I came from,” she shares. “There are a lot of inspiring people and creatives from our part of the world, and I think that if we started to work more collaboratively and really focus on building and growing together, we could create something really powerful and beautiful.”
#RHOA: Todd Tucker Shares an Update on Restaurant Empire with Kandi: “Teamwork Makes the Dream Work”
It’s no secret that Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker are Atlanta’s very own power couple. Not only are they loving parents to four children: Riley Burruss, Kaela Tucker, Ace Tucker, and Blaze Tucker, but they also co-head a massive business empire that spans entertainment, lifestyle products, and restaurants.
During Season 8 of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Kandi and Todd discussed the possibility of opening a family restaurant. However, it wasn't until Season 9 of the series that the couple finally opened the Old Lady Gang for business.
Since then, Kandi and Todd have expanded their presence by opening another restaurant, Blaze Steak and Seafood, fittingly named after Kandi and Todd’s daughter, Blaze (keep scrolling to find out what Blaze has been up to these days as well).
Most recently, Todd provided an update on his and Kandi’s flourishing restaurant empire and even shared how their baby girl got the Burruss-Tucker family ready for the holiday season.
On December 24, Todd took to his Instagram feed to express his gratitude towards his and Kandi’s restaurant staff ahead of the holidays. In the Instagram post, Todd shared a group photo of himself and his wife posing with the team. “Teamwork makes the dream work,” Todd captioned the post. “I want to say thank you to the [Burruss-Tucker] restaurant group team for all the hard work!”
Based on the photo, it seems that Kandi and Todd threw a holiday party for their employees, as some of the guests were dressed in festive attire. Among the attendees was Kandi’s right-hand man and general manager of Kandi Koated Entertainment, DonJuan Clark. "Happy Holidays," Todd concluded on the post.
Speaking of holiday cheer, Kandi and Todd’s 3-year-old daughter kicked off the December festive season by performing in her first Christmas-themed dance program.
Of course, Blaze’s recent milestone was a family-studded event as both parents were in the audience showing their support along with Mama Joyce Jones, Riley, Ace, Kandi’s friend Carmon Cambrice, and Kandi’s dad Titus Burruss Jr.
Todd posted an excerpt from the special day as he shared a snapshot of himself holding Blaze in her adorable red and white costume with the caption, “Me and my baby [Blaze Tucker] she did a great job at her first dance recital.”
Kandi shared her own post on social media with a series of photos from the memorable day. “The family had to come out [and] support [Blaze Tucker] on her first dance recital,” Kandi wrote in her December 16 Instagram post.
#MusicNews: Barack Obama Shares His Favorite Songs of 2023
Barack Obama is taking the aux. With just three days left of 2023, the former president of the United States revealed which tunes he was grooving to the most over the past year, featuring pop music, country, R&B and more.
The annual list comes on the heels of Obama’s yearly book and movie favorites, which the ex-POTUS shared earlier this week. In 2023, he had exactly 28 tracks on repeat, with highlights including “TQG” by Karol G and Shakira, “I Remember Everything” by Zach Bryan feat. Kacey Musgraves, “Sprinter” by Dave and Central Cee and “America Has a Problem” by Beyoncé feat. Kendrick Lamar.
The A Promised Land author also included Megan Thee Stallion’s “Cobra,” Tyla’s “Water,” Mitski’s “My Love Mine All Mine” and Victoria Monét’s “On My Mama.” “Here are some of my favorite songs from this year,” he wrote on Instagram Friday (Dec. 29). “Let me know if there are any artists or songs I should check out.”
Mr. Obama’s music taste has long been known to be diverse, as documented by his song lists over the past few years. In 2022, he shouted out music from artists such as Lizzo, Rosalía, Ari Lennox, Ethel Cain, Steve Lacy and Omar Apollo. A few — Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, Zach Bryan — were featured on both his 2022 and 2023 playlists.
The 44th prez also typically shares his favorite songs of the summer every year, with his seasonal jams of 2023 including Boygenius, Ice Spice, Luke Bryan, Nicki Minaj and Leonard Cohen.
See Obama’s full 2023 favorite songs list below:
Cool!
#HipHopNews: Kid Capri Announces That He’s Cancer-Free After Private Year-Long Battle
On Saturday (December 30), the award-winning DJ (real name David Anthony Love Jr.) took to social media where he shared that, after a year-long battle with cancer, he has been given a clean bill of health. He also explained why fans are just learning about his health concerns.
“God is great! 3 days ago, I found out that I’m cancer free! Been dealing with it all year while I was doing everything I was doing for hip hop 50,” he began. “I had 2 surgeries and never said anything publicly about what I was going through, I’m not an attention whore, so I didn’t want to say anything, so that it didn’t look like i wanted pity.”
He continued, “But now that it’s over, I figure I let my fans and friends know, I’m very happy, this year I did a lot, but come 2024, I’m getting even crazier than I did in 2023!! Thank you God! #kidcapri #partyking #therealLOVE #happynewyear #happyholidays.”
The news garnered overwhelming support from notable figures such as Doug E. Fresh, Fat Joe, Busta Rhymes, Big Boi, and many more.
“YOU HAVE SO MUCH MORE OF GODS WORK TO DO MY BRO. BLESSINGS TO YOU AND YOUR BEAUTIFUL FAMILY202more [fire emoji],” commented Doug E. Fresh.
Fat Joe also slid into the comment section to show love, writing: “God bless you we love you Capri [praying hands].”
“To God be the glory and salute to you for walking in your own way with this. Whether we knew or not, the people love you man. [salute emoji],” wrote radio host and TV personality, Headkrack.
Meanwhile, Busta Rhymes and Big Boi opted for a series of emojis including raised hands and a crown.
In August, the NYC native hit the stage to perform at Yankee Stadium’s Hip Hop 50 concert. To fans’ surprise, he was joined by former New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter, who fired up the crowd in the stadium he once called home.
Other performers at the star-studded show included the reuniting of Wu-Tang Clan, Nas, Lauryn Hill, Snoop Dogg, Lil Wayne, Ice Cube, Fat Joe, Lupe Fiasco, Eve, Lil Kim, Remy Ma and Trina.
The concert also paid homage to trailblazers who helped pave the way like Kurtis Blow, Kool Herc, Grandmaster Caz, Roxanne Shante, Melle Mel, and the Sugarhill Gang.
The Tap Dance Icon Maurice Hines, Dies at 80
Hines received a Tony Award nomination in 1986 for best actor in a musical for Uptown… It’s Hot and was featured again on Broadway in 2006’s Hot Feet. Hines conceived, directed and choreographed both productions.
Born on Dec. 13, 1943, in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City, Hines studied tap with Henry LeTang in NYC and was fascinated by the acrobatics of the Nicholas Brothers. He made his professional debut at around 6 years old alongside brother Gregory as the tap-dancing Hines Kids on Broadway in 1954, according to THR.
They later became known as the Hines Brothers and then Hines, Hines & Dad after their father, Maurice Sr., joined in 1963. The trio became regulars at New York’s Apollo Theater, and also performed in clubs across the U.S. and Europe.
After Gregory went solo in the early 1970s, Maurice joined the national tour of Guys and Dolls and reunited with his brother for Eubie! on Broadway in 1979. In 1982, Maurice stepped in for Gregory in the Broadway musical Sophisticated Ladies and he also appeared in the national tour of Jelly’s Last Jam.
The siblings later joined forces as the feuding Williams Brothers in Coppola’s 1984 crime drama The Cotton Club, which also starred Richard Gere and Diane Lane.
The 2019 documentary Maurice Hines: Bring Them Back highlights a falling out between the Hines brothers, who didn’t speak for 10 years “for reasons that Maurice refuses to discuss to this day. He provides no explanation in the film, but instead takes every opportunity to praise Gregory and say how much he loved him,” according to a THR review of the film.
“Nonetheless, the lingering emotional pain of their rift is deeply evident in such moments as Maurice sadly remembering that they didn’t even speak to each at their mother’s wedding, to her great distress. The film includes footage of Gregory’s Tony Award acceptance speech [for Jelly’s Last Jam in 1992], in which he pointedly thanks everyone in his family except his brother. He even takes pains, when mentioning his father, to add “Sr.” so nobody misunderstands.”
The brothers made up before Gregory died of cancer at age 57 in 2003, according to THR.
Maurice is survived by his nephew, Zach, and niece, Daria.
Toni Braxton And Birdman DID NOT Get Married!
Did Toni Braxton and Birdman get married? According to Toni, the answer is flat-out and unequivocally no. The notoriously private singer rushed to her official Instagram page to shut down the chatter. “My dear friend Birdman and I are not married. [We’ve] never been married. We are both single,” wrote Toni.
Not only are the pair not husband and wife, but based on Toni’s note, the duo are no longer dating. Toni and Birdman established a working relationship in 2022 after working on the song “Baby You Can Do It.” Their friendship remained over the decade until they took things to another level in 2016, when they confirmed their relationship. By 2018, they were engaged. It is unclear when they officially split.
Paula Abdul accuses 'American Idol' executive producer Nigel Lythgoe of sexual assault in new lawsuit
Paula Abdul accused "American Idol" and "So You Think You Can Dance" executive producer Nigel Lythgoe of sexual assault in a lawsuit filed Friday.
The Grammy-winning singer said one assault happened in the early 2000s and a second around 2015 while she was a judge on the television competition shows, according to a suit filed in the Los Angeles County Superior Court under the Sexual Abuse and Cover Up Accountability Act, which allows sexual assault suits to be filed even if the statute of limitations has passed.
Abdul, 61, alleged that during one of the initial seasons of "American Idol," where she served as a judge from 2002 to 2009, Lythgoe "shoved" her against the wall of an elevator, "grabbed her genitals and breasts, and began shoving his tongue down her throat."
Abdul tried to push him away and ran out of the elevator when the doors opened, it stated.
Following the alleged assault, a tearful Abdul told one of her representatives but "ultimately decided not to take action for fear that Lythgoe would have her fired from 'American Idol,'" according to the suit.
It also alleged that Abdul was "discriminated against in terms of compensation and benefits compared to one of the show’s male judges and the host" and was bullied, harassed and taunted during her time on the show.
Kathy Griffin Divorcing Much-Younger Husband, Days Ahead Of Third Wedding Anniversary
Kathy Griffin has sought divorce from her husband Randy Bick just days ahead of their wedding anniversary. The 63-year-old comedienne married Randy, 45, on New Year's Day in 2020 but in documents obtained by TMZ on Friday, December 29, it has been revealed that the couple have now parted ways because of "irreconcilable differences."
Listing December 22 as her official date of separation, the Emmy Award-winning star has a prenuptial agreement in place, which she is keen for the court to enforce, meaning that there will be no need for spousal support.
In an apparent nod to the news, Kathy wrote on X, "Well s***. This sucks (sic)."
Kathy - who was initially married to actor Matt Moline from 2001 until 2006 - met Randy at a food festival in Los Angeles in the summer of 2011 and went on her first date with him just a couple of months later.
The pair soon began a relationship and were together until 2018 but got back together the following year, going on to get married in what was a surprise wedding at the very beginning of 2020 and soon took to Twitter - which has since been renamed as X - to reveal that her longtime friend and Hollywood star Lily Tomlin, 82, had officiated the ceremony.
She wrote, "The entire ceremony was just under 14 minutes but I have to give you guys the uncut first 75 seconds. LOVE IT! We promised you atypical. We are in love and we cannot stop laughing. Thank you @LilyTomlin and Jane Wagner."
Kathy previously insisted that their 19-year age gap had not been a problem and that they had both decided to "fight" for the relationship following their brief split. She told Entertainment Tonight, "We took a little break and we're back. And now, we just came to the decision that, we've really been through so much together."
"We've now been together over eight years. Even though he's 19 years younger, we both turned to each other and realized, this is the longest relationship for both of us, you know? We should fight for it and make it work. And you know, it was just one of those things where, it was a lot of pressure."
Jazmine Sullivan Shares Tribute After Grandmother Passes Away: “Hug Mommy For Me”
Jazmine Sullivan has posted a reflective tribute following her grandmother’s recent death. The GRAMMY award-winner also referenced her mother several times throughout the post, as Sullivan lost her earlier this year.
“Rest now, grandmom,” she wrote on her Instagram story, sharing how her mother and grandmother shaped who she is today. “I know mommy is so happy to see you! These women are the very reason I sing and write. The reason I’m funny and sassy. The reason I say what I mean according do my conviction. The reason I love God! And the reason I’m strong even when I don’t think I am.”
The “Bust Your Windows” singer concluded her message by saying how she’ll put her trust in a higher power to get through this tough chapter. “God decided 2023 I could handle losing them both. [I don’t know why] but his plans are above me. What I do know is that I was blessed to have been molded and loved fiercely by these amazing women. And I am proud to continue carrying myself in the light in which they raised me! God I thank you for my time with them! I’ll miss you grandma. Hug mommy for me,” she ended.
This past summer, Sullivan shared the news that her mother, Pamela, had passed away after her four-year battle with breast cancer. The songbird’s most recent Instagram post is a video of her mom wishing her a happy birthday. “Words cant express how much we love you, Jazmine,” Pamela says in the clip. “You are the light of our lives, and we thank God for you.”
Many followers flooded the Heaux Tales creator’s comments to share support. “We see you… beyond your gift we see you,” wrote content creator Deanna Dixon. “You’re experiencing a real human moment and we give you space to grieve and just be. And when you’re ready… we will be standing with open arms to support you again through this new territory.”
Donald Glover Says New Childish Gambino Album Is Coming ‘Soon’ Despite Wanting to Retire From Music
New Year, new Childish Gambino — according to Donald Glover. Though Glover, 40, once indicated that he would retire his rap alter-ego, the actor recently hinted that Childish Gambino will return in 2024, telling TMZ in New York City that the next project he’s working on is another album.
Asked when fans might be able to expect Glover’s new project, he simply teased, “Soon,” as he sat down in his ride and drove off.
As of 2023, Childish Gambino has released more than a dozen mixtapes, four EPs and four full-length albums, the most recent being 2020’s 3.15.20. The LP featured appearances from Ariana Grande (“Time”), 21 Savage, Ink and Kadhja Bonet (“12.38”).
3.15.20 arrived two years after Glover dropped “This Is America,” which bluntly addressed systemic racism, racial violence and other aspects of racial oppression in the United States in its lyrics and corresponding video. The song, which Glover said originated as a Drake diss track, topped the Billboard Hot 100, making it his only No. 1 to date.
In 2017, the Atlanta star announced at the Governor’s Ball Music Festival in New York City that his next album would be the swansong for Childish Gambino. “There’s nothing [worse] than, like, a third sequel, like, a third movie and we’re like, ‘Again?’” he explained to HuffPost after the announcement. “You know, I like it when something’s good and when it comes back, there’s a reason to come back; there’s a reason to do that.”
Glover said at the time that continuing the project would comprise his vision. “Being punk just always felt really good to me and we always looked at Atlanta as a punk show and I feel like the direction I would go with Childish Gambino wouldn’t be punk anymore,” he said.
Earlier this year, however, Glover revealed that he had revived the project. “I’m making music right now. I love it,” he told E! News at the 2023 Golden Globes. “I’m actually in the studio. I’ve been bringing people in, like, secret people, working on little things. I’ve been just making it for fun right now. But soon, something will happen. I promise.”
When asked about his earlier statement that Childish Gambino was retiring, Glover waved it off. “That was out in the ethos,” he said. “You don’t have to worry about that. He’ll be back. He’s here right now.”
Howard University issues response to viral TikTok of vandals accessing archival material
Howard University supporters and alums want answers after a viral TikTok showed a group of white young adults rummaging through an abandoned building and archival materials on the HBCU campus.
Outrage over the since-deleted video has prompted questions about the university’s failure to properly store and protect the books, newspapers and other literary works, some of which dated back to the 1860s, that were found in Benjamin E. Mays Hall.
Kenyatta R. Gilbert, dean of the School of Divinity, issued a statement regarding the matter late Friday (Dec. 29). “In the video, a group of individuals are observed rummaging through Mays Hall, running through the stacks of its library, flipping through books and files, and even deploying a fire extinguisher indoors,” said Gilbert. “The creator of the TikTok admitted that the group had trouble entering the building, with its boarded windows and doors, but the group persisted and was able to force entry into the building through a mechanical room,” he continued.
The deserted building formerly housed the Howard University School of Divinity from 1987 – 2015; however, it was boarded up after the theological school relocated to the west campus nearly a decade ago. Gilbert stated that the university is currently in the process of having the 23-acre east campus considered a historical landmark, a designation that would allow them to revive the area.
“Despite the University’s efforts to remove historically relevant materials from the site in 2015, the actions of those who trespassed and broke into Mays Hall remind us how some are willing to violate the sacred boundaries of our beloved HBCU campuses and threaten to embolden others with similar actions,” he further stated.
Campus security is currently investigating the incident. Details of vandals potentially facing charges are not yet known. In the meantime, Gilbert assured the HU community that, “In light of this incident, Howard University’s Department of Public Safety will ramp up existing patrols of the site and the University will work to reassess the contents of the building and secure it from unlawful access. The University is taking the necessary steps to ensure the School of Divinity’s most precious archival materials are in safekeeping.”
Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson Loses Motion To Dismiss Lawsuit From Man Claiming “Power” Is Based On Him
Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson has lost his bid to dismiss a lawsuit against a man claiming to be the real “Ghost.”
This week, Judge Analisa Torres declined 50 Cent’s request to throw out the case, signaling the continuation of his legal battle with Cory “Ghost” Holland. In 2021, he alleged that 50 Cent appropriated his life narrative for the acclaimed STARZ series “Power.” Additionally, Holland is now accusing 50 of orchestrating an assassination plot against him.
Holland voiced concerns stating, “It’s 50 Cent’s newfound capacity to contract a hitman, fueled by a $150 million deal he inked with STARZ/LIONSGATE, that instills relentless anxiety and dread in me.” Holland is concerned that 50 may have someone on standby ready to take him and his loved ones out at any given moment.
More shockingly, Holland speculated in his court docs that federal authorities might be shielding 50 Cent while simultaneously characterizing him as a “bully,” pointing to 50 Cent’s social media behavior as evidence. This, Holland claimed, has left his family living in constant fear.
“Rather it’s his own Child’s Mother or Former Music Executives like Chris and Irv Gotti of MURDER INC RECORDS, 50 Cent has the ability to do things everyday people can’t,” the docs read, which were obtained and examined by AllHipHip.com.
The case will now proceed despite 50 and his legal team claiming the accusations were meritless.
Chaka Khan Is Finally Past Her Beef With Kanye West Over “Through The Wire;” “Not Hanging On To Any Silly Grudges”
Chaka Khan is ready to move on from her longstanding beef with Kanye West over him sampling her record, “Through the Fire.”
Khan has slammed West several times for using her vocals for his 2004 breakout single, “Through the Wire.” The record was featured on his debut album, “College Dropout.” Ye sped up Khan’s vocals, but they are very much identifiable. After years of dragging Ye for not correctly notifying her about how her vocals would be used, Khan says she is over it.
“I’m done. Please. I’m not hanging on to any silly grudges,” Khan shared with Rolling Stone during a recent interview.
Part of Khan’s frustration stemmed from her not knowing much about hip-hop and sampling back then. During a June 2019 interview with “Watch What Happens Live” and host Andy Cohen, Khan firmly stated, “I was pissed. I was a little insulted — not insulted; I thought it was stupid.” She reiterated this during a 2022 chat with VladTV. However, with a better understanding of how and why rappers speed up and slow down tracks to make new beats, she is not upset by it.
“That was my fault, too, for feeling salty about that in any way. Because if I understood the rap game more completely, like I do now, then that wouldn’t have been a big deal to me,” she shared.
These days, she is much more consumed with her new accolades, which include being honored with the Musical Excellence Award by the Rock & Roll Hall of Hame
Cardi B Has Subpoenaed Tasha K’s Associates In Quest To Secure Her $4 Million Judgment
Cardi B is not letting up on Tasha K on her quest to retrieve the $4 million the blogger owes her.
In newly unveiled court documents, Cardi filed several subpoenas targeting Tasha’s close associates. Per the records obtained by RadarOnline, the “Be Careful” superstar wants all communications from anyone close to the controversial YouTuber regarding her partnerships, LLCs, and trusts. Cardi is especially interested in information regarding a series of trusts established by Tasha and her husband, Cheikna Kebe.
This information will also be used as Cardi continues trying to collect the hefty defamation judgment. Back in October, the Grammy award winner suggested that she might take it easy on Tasha after having a slight change of heart. However, it’s clear she has decided to keep trying to get the remaining funds owed to her. Cardi won her defamation case against Tasha in January 2022. The media personality has attempted to fight the judgment, though it was upheld. She also tried apologizing to Cardi and has even filed for bankruptcy. Unfortunately for the influencer, none of this has deterred the rapper.
In addition to Cardi, Tasha is also facing another lawsuit from Kevin Hart for a messy extortion plot. This month, the comedian sued Tasha for trying to squeeze $250,000 out of him, claiming she would refrain from releasing a damaging interview if he complied. Tasha released the interview with Hart’s former personal assistant, Miesha Shakes. In his lawsuit, he accused Shakes of making multiple false statements during the conversation.
Despite her many legal issues, Tasha continues to release such content, many times while knowing it is untrue.
The Grammy-winning singer said one assault happened in the early 2000s and a second around 2015 while she was a judge on the television competition shows, according to a suit filed in the Los Angeles County Superior Court under the Sexual Abuse and Cover Up Accountability Act, which allows sexual assault suits to be filed even if the statute of limitations has passed.
Abdul, 61, alleged that during one of the initial seasons of "American Idol," where she served as a judge from 2002 to 2009, Lythgoe "shoved" her against the wall of an elevator, "grabbed her genitals and breasts, and began shoving his tongue down her throat."
Abdul tried to push him away and ran out of the elevator when the doors opened, it stated.
Following the alleged assault, a tearful Abdul told one of her representatives but "ultimately decided not to take action for fear that Lythgoe would have her fired from 'American Idol,'" according to the suit.
It also alleged that Abdul was "discriminated against in terms of compensation and benefits compared to one of the show’s male judges and the host" and was bullied, harassed and taunted during her time on the show.
Kathy Griffin Divorcing Much-Younger Husband, Days Ahead Of Third Wedding Anniversary
Kathy Griffin has sought divorce from her husband Randy Bick just days ahead of their wedding anniversary. The 63-year-old comedienne married Randy, 45, on New Year's Day in 2020 but in documents obtained by TMZ on Friday, December 29, it has been revealed that the couple have now parted ways because of "irreconcilable differences."
Listing December 22 as her official date of separation, the Emmy Award-winning star has a prenuptial agreement in place, which she is keen for the court to enforce, meaning that there will be no need for spousal support.
In an apparent nod to the news, Kathy wrote on X, "Well s***. This sucks (sic)."
Kathy - who was initially married to actor Matt Moline from 2001 until 2006 - met Randy at a food festival in Los Angeles in the summer of 2011 and went on her first date with him just a couple of months later.
The pair soon began a relationship and were together until 2018 but got back together the following year, going on to get married in what was a surprise wedding at the very beginning of 2020 and soon took to Twitter - which has since been renamed as X - to reveal that her longtime friend and Hollywood star Lily Tomlin, 82, had officiated the ceremony.
She wrote, "The entire ceremony was just under 14 minutes but I have to give you guys the uncut first 75 seconds. LOVE IT! We promised you atypical. We are in love and we cannot stop laughing. Thank you @LilyTomlin and Jane Wagner."
Kathy previously insisted that their 19-year age gap had not been a problem and that they had both decided to "fight" for the relationship following their brief split. She told Entertainment Tonight, "We took a little break and we're back. And now, we just came to the decision that, we've really been through so much together."
"We've now been together over eight years. Even though he's 19 years younger, we both turned to each other and realized, this is the longest relationship for both of us, you know? We should fight for it and make it work. And you know, it was just one of those things where, it was a lot of pressure."
Jazmine Sullivan Shares Tribute After Grandmother Passes Away: “Hug Mommy For Me”
“Rest now, grandmom,” she wrote on her Instagram story, sharing how her mother and grandmother shaped who she is today. “I know mommy is so happy to see you! These women are the very reason I sing and write. The reason I’m funny and sassy. The reason I say what I mean according do my conviction. The reason I love God! And the reason I’m strong even when I don’t think I am.”
The “Bust Your Windows” singer concluded her message by saying how she’ll put her trust in a higher power to get through this tough chapter. “God decided 2023 I could handle losing them both. [I don’t know why] but his plans are above me. What I do know is that I was blessed to have been molded and loved fiercely by these amazing women. And I am proud to continue carrying myself in the light in which they raised me! God I thank you for my time with them! I’ll miss you grandma. Hug mommy for me,” she ended.
This past summer, Sullivan shared the news that her mother, Pamela, had passed away after her four-year battle with breast cancer. The songbird’s most recent Instagram post is a video of her mom wishing her a happy birthday. “Words cant express how much we love you, Jazmine,” Pamela says in the clip. “You are the light of our lives, and we thank God for you.”
Many followers flooded the Heaux Tales creator’s comments to share support. “We see you… beyond your gift we see you,” wrote content creator Deanna Dixon. “You’re experiencing a real human moment and we give you space to grieve and just be. And when you’re ready… we will be standing with open arms to support you again through this new territory.”
Donald Glover Says New Childish Gambino Album Is Coming ‘Soon’ Despite Wanting to Retire From Music
New Year, new Childish Gambino — according to Donald Glover. Though Glover, 40, once indicated that he would retire his rap alter-ego, the actor recently hinted that Childish Gambino will return in 2024, telling TMZ in New York City that the next project he’s working on is another album.
Asked when fans might be able to expect Glover’s new project, he simply teased, “Soon,” as he sat down in his ride and drove off.
As of 2023, Childish Gambino has released more than a dozen mixtapes, four EPs and four full-length albums, the most recent being 2020’s 3.15.20. The LP featured appearances from Ariana Grande (“Time”), 21 Savage, Ink and Kadhja Bonet (“12.38”).
3.15.20 arrived two years after Glover dropped “This Is America,” which bluntly addressed systemic racism, racial violence and other aspects of racial oppression in the United States in its lyrics and corresponding video. The song, which Glover said originated as a Drake diss track, topped the Billboard Hot 100, making it his only No. 1 to date.
In 2017, the Atlanta star announced at the Governor’s Ball Music Festival in New York City that his next album would be the swansong for Childish Gambino. “There’s nothing [worse] than, like, a third sequel, like, a third movie and we’re like, ‘Again?’” he explained to HuffPost after the announcement. “You know, I like it when something’s good and when it comes back, there’s a reason to come back; there’s a reason to do that.”
Glover said at the time that continuing the project would comprise his vision. “Being punk just always felt really good to me and we always looked at Atlanta as a punk show and I feel like the direction I would go with Childish Gambino wouldn’t be punk anymore,” he said.
Earlier this year, however, Glover revealed that he had revived the project. “I’m making music right now. I love it,” he told E! News at the 2023 Golden Globes. “I’m actually in the studio. I’ve been bringing people in, like, secret people, working on little things. I’ve been just making it for fun right now. But soon, something will happen. I promise.”
When asked about his earlier statement that Childish Gambino was retiring, Glover waved it off. “That was out in the ethos,” he said. “You don’t have to worry about that. He’ll be back. He’s here right now.”
Howard University issues response to viral TikTok of vandals accessing archival material
Outrage over the since-deleted video has prompted questions about the university’s failure to properly store and protect the books, newspapers and other literary works, some of which dated back to the 1860s, that were found in Benjamin E. Mays Hall.
Kenyatta R. Gilbert, dean of the School of Divinity, issued a statement regarding the matter late Friday (Dec. 29). “In the video, a group of individuals are observed rummaging through Mays Hall, running through the stacks of its library, flipping through books and files, and even deploying a fire extinguisher indoors,” said Gilbert. “The creator of the TikTok admitted that the group had trouble entering the building, with its boarded windows and doors, but the group persisted and was able to force entry into the building through a mechanical room,” he continued.
The deserted building formerly housed the Howard University School of Divinity from 1987 – 2015; however, it was boarded up after the theological school relocated to the west campus nearly a decade ago. Gilbert stated that the university is currently in the process of having the 23-acre east campus considered a historical landmark, a designation that would allow them to revive the area.
“Despite the University’s efforts to remove historically relevant materials from the site in 2015, the actions of those who trespassed and broke into Mays Hall remind us how some are willing to violate the sacred boundaries of our beloved HBCU campuses and threaten to embolden others with similar actions,” he further stated.
Campus security is currently investigating the incident. Details of vandals potentially facing charges are not yet known. In the meantime, Gilbert assured the HU community that, “In light of this incident, Howard University’s Department of Public Safety will ramp up existing patrols of the site and the University will work to reassess the contents of the building and secure it from unlawful access. The University is taking the necessary steps to ensure the School of Divinity’s most precious archival materials are in safekeeping.”
Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson Loses Motion To Dismiss Lawsuit From Man Claiming “Power” Is Based On Him
Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson has lost his bid to dismiss a lawsuit against a man claiming to be the real “Ghost.”
This week, Judge Analisa Torres declined 50 Cent’s request to throw out the case, signaling the continuation of his legal battle with Cory “Ghost” Holland. In 2021, he alleged that 50 Cent appropriated his life narrative for the acclaimed STARZ series “Power.” Additionally, Holland is now accusing 50 of orchestrating an assassination plot against him.
Holland voiced concerns stating, “It’s 50 Cent’s newfound capacity to contract a hitman, fueled by a $150 million deal he inked with STARZ/LIONSGATE, that instills relentless anxiety and dread in me.” Holland is concerned that 50 may have someone on standby ready to take him and his loved ones out at any given moment.
More shockingly, Holland speculated in his court docs that federal authorities might be shielding 50 Cent while simultaneously characterizing him as a “bully,” pointing to 50 Cent’s social media behavior as evidence. This, Holland claimed, has left his family living in constant fear.
“Rather it’s his own Child’s Mother or Former Music Executives like Chris and Irv Gotti of MURDER INC RECORDS, 50 Cent has the ability to do things everyday people can’t,” the docs read, which were obtained and examined by AllHipHip.com.
The case will now proceed despite 50 and his legal team claiming the accusations were meritless.
Chaka Khan Is Finally Past Her Beef With Kanye West Over “Through The Wire;” “Not Hanging On To Any Silly Grudges”
Khan has slammed West several times for using her vocals for his 2004 breakout single, “Through the Wire.” The record was featured on his debut album, “College Dropout.” Ye sped up Khan’s vocals, but they are very much identifiable. After years of dragging Ye for not correctly notifying her about how her vocals would be used, Khan says she is over it.
“I’m done. Please. I’m not hanging on to any silly grudges,” Khan shared with Rolling Stone during a recent interview.
Part of Khan’s frustration stemmed from her not knowing much about hip-hop and sampling back then. During a June 2019 interview with “Watch What Happens Live” and host Andy Cohen, Khan firmly stated, “I was pissed. I was a little insulted — not insulted; I thought it was stupid.” She reiterated this during a 2022 chat with VladTV. However, with a better understanding of how and why rappers speed up and slow down tracks to make new beats, she is not upset by it.
“That was my fault, too, for feeling salty about that in any way. Because if I understood the rap game more completely, like I do now, then that wouldn’t have been a big deal to me,” she shared.
These days, she is much more consumed with her new accolades, which include being honored with the Musical Excellence Award by the Rock & Roll Hall of Hame
Cardi B Has Subpoenaed Tasha K’s Associates In Quest To Secure Her $4 Million Judgment
Cardi B is not letting up on Tasha K on her quest to retrieve the $4 million the blogger owes her.
In newly unveiled court documents, Cardi filed several subpoenas targeting Tasha’s close associates. Per the records obtained by RadarOnline, the “Be Careful” superstar wants all communications from anyone close to the controversial YouTuber regarding her partnerships, LLCs, and trusts. Cardi is especially interested in information regarding a series of trusts established by Tasha and her husband, Cheikna Kebe.
This information will also be used as Cardi continues trying to collect the hefty defamation judgment. Back in October, the Grammy award winner suggested that she might take it easy on Tasha after having a slight change of heart. However, it’s clear she has decided to keep trying to get the remaining funds owed to her. Cardi won her defamation case against Tasha in January 2022. The media personality has attempted to fight the judgment, though it was upheld. She also tried apologizing to Cardi and has even filed for bankruptcy. Unfortunately for the influencer, none of this has deterred the rapper.
In addition to Cardi, Tasha is also facing another lawsuit from Kevin Hart for a messy extortion plot. This month, the comedian sued Tasha for trying to squeeze $250,000 out of him, claiming she would refrain from releasing a damaging interview if he complied. Tasha released the interview with Hart’s former personal assistant, Miesha Shakes. In his lawsuit, he accused Shakes of making multiple false statements during the conversation.
Despite her many legal issues, Tasha continues to release such content, many times while knowing it is untrue.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Thought This Was A Display
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