#MAGFAB: Joey Badass and Serayah For Essence Magazine's "Of The Essence"
Joey Badass and Serayah are embracing life on their own terms, with a baby boy on the way. On Thursday (May 22), the couple opened up to ESSENCE about their relationship, expecting their first child and more in their new cover story.
“There’s a lot of transitional things happening in our lives, and it’s very, very symbolic at this point in time right now,” Joey told the publication. The “Show Me” rapper added that he and Serayah are simply at the “beginning of a new chapter,” particularly with both of them turning 30 this year
Serayah, who’s expecting a baby boy, first revealed her pregnancy in February while walking Adore Me’s runway at New York Fashion Week. “The stars just aligned. We didn’t coordinate or plan anything out,” she shared with ESSENCE about the reveal.
“I disclosed to them that I was, I think at the time, around five or six months pregnant. When they said that they were fine with it, I was like, ‘Okay, well maybe this is the opportunity, and this will be the moment,’” she further explained. The little one on the way will be the couple’s first child together, though Joey already has a daughter from a previous relationship.
Speaking of the Brooklyn native’s eldest, Joey admitted that his daughter is still warming up to the idea of being a big sister. “I think she’s like, ‘I got to share my daddy now?’ But I already know she’s going to come around,” he continued. “She’s going to be super hands-on.”
Outside of fatherhood, 2025 is turning out to be a huge year for the Pro Era artist. He's spent much of May trading shots with West Coast rappers like Ray Vaughn, Daylyt and AZ Chike. Joey also confirmed to UPROXX that he's aiming to drop a new album by Aug. 30.
“There’s a lot of transitional things happening in our lives, and it’s very, very symbolic at this point in time right now,” Joey told the publication. The “Show Me” rapper added that he and Serayah are simply at the “beginning of a new chapter,” particularly with both of them turning 30 this year
“I disclosed to them that I was, I think at the time, around five or six months pregnant. When they said that they were fine with it, I was like, ‘Okay, well maybe this is the opportunity, and this will be the moment,’” she further explained. The little one on the way will be the couple’s first child together, though Joey already has a daughter from a previous relationship.
Outside of fatherhood, 2025 is turning out to be a huge year for the Pro Era artist. He's spent much of May trading shots with West Coast rappers like Ray Vaughn, Daylyt and AZ Chike. Joey also confirmed to UPROXX that he's aiming to drop a new album by Aug. 30.
#RHOA: Peter Thomas Checks in at Prison
Peter Thomas says “the law is the law” before his prison stay
Of course, Peter is no stranger to financial problems after having faced multiple lawsuits and closures over the years for his various businesses. It all caught up to him last year when federal prosecutors accused him of stealing $2.5 million of payroll taxes from his employees.
The prosecutors said, “Thomas’s flagrant violation of his federal payroll tax obligations over many years that served to unjustly enrich his companies and himself by more than $2.5 million and deprive the federal government funds used to provide important retirement and disability benefits to employees.”
Peter wound up taking a plea deal, meaning he only has to serve 18 months in prison. He kicked off Memorial Day Weekend 2025 by surrendering himself to the Federal Bureau of Prisons. He shared a photo from outside the prison along with a message for other aspiring business owners.
“All my people told me not to post this, that I am crazy if I do, I am not CRAZY, just real as f*ck,” Peter wrote on Instagram.
Anytime a post starts with a caption like that, you know you’re in for a doozy. Sure enough, Peter went on to type up a lengthy caption urging other business owners to pay their taxes. He doesn’t want to see other entrepreneurs wind up behind bars like him.
“The first thing I must say to all new business owner [sic], please pay that withholding tax, you do not want to be in the position that I am right now, THE LAW IS THE LAW,” he added.
According to Peter, who is 64 years old, the next 18 months are going to be a “new chapter” in his life. He said he wants to be an example of accountability and responsibility for his “3 black son [sic].”
After sharing that touching message, Cynthia’s ex was whisked away to carry out his sentence. We’ll see you in 2026, Peter.
#MusicNews: Jennifer Lopez announces New Year's show with residency at Caesars Palace
Jenny from the Block is returning to the Las Vegas Strip to ring in the new year. Jennifer Lopez announced her new residency, "Up All Night Live," while hosting the American Music Awards in Las Vegas Monday night.
Lopez will perform Dec. 30 - Jan. 3 and over eight nights in March at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, according to a social media post.
Tickets will go on sale Friday, June 6, at ticketmaster.com/JLoVegas.
Jenny from the Block is returning to the Las Vegas Strip to ring in the new year. Jennifer Lopez announced her new residency, "Up All Night Live," while hosting the American Music Awards in Las Vegas Monday night.
Lopez will perform Dec. 30 - Jan. 3 and over eight nights in March at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, according to a social media post.
Tickets will go on sale Friday, June 6, at ticketmaster.com/JLoVegas.
The full schedule of shows:
Dec. 2025: 30 & 31
Jan. 2026: 2 & 3
March 2026: 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28
The "This Is Me Now" singer previously headlined the "All I Have" residency at Planet Hollywood from 2016 to 2018.
Her hit songs include "If You Had My Love," "Waiting for Tonight," "All I Have" and "Get Right."
Dec. 2025: 30 & 31
Jan. 2026: 2 & 3
March 2026: 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28
The "This Is Me Now" singer previously headlined the "All I Have" residency at Planet Hollywood from 2016 to 2018.
Her hit songs include "If You Had My Love," "Waiting for Tonight," "All I Have" and "Get Right."
#HipHopNews: 2 Chainz Says Birdman Wanted $100K For Lil Wayne Introduction
In a recent conversation with Shannon Sharpe on Club Shay Shay, 2 Chainz opened up about a surprising experience he had with Birdman and Lil Wayne during Wayne’s prime.
According to Chainz, Birdman had a habit of charging artists $100,000 just to get them in contact with Wayne. It was a costly fee, but one that many were willing to pay in hopes of securing a collaboration with the legendary rapper.
2 Chainz, however, found a more creative way to bypass the expensive fee. While shopping at a Gucci store, he bought a pair of red Gucci shoes for Wayne, symbolizing Wayne’s “red team” affiliation. He then took the shoes to Wayne at the studio, along with a beat CD. “He don’t know I’m about to take it to him,” 2 Chainz explained. Upon receiving the gift, Wayne was impressed, saying, “Damn, these harder than a b*tch.”
The two quickly got into the studio, but there was an issue with the email containing the song, which Wayne had sent. After sorting it out, they listened to the track, and 2 Chainz immediately recognized its potential. “Man, you did that for me?” he asked Wayne. Wayne responded with a simple, “Yeah boy.”
Despite Weezy’s generosity, Baby still expected his $100,000 for the connection. But as 2 Chainz aka “Tony” quipped, “it’s only going to be just 100, not 200.” That song, “Duffle Bag Boy” by Playaz Circle, would go on to become a major hit, cementing its place in Hip-Hop history.
According to Chainz, Birdman had a habit of charging artists $100,000 just to get them in contact with Wayne. It was a costly fee, but one that many were willing to pay in hopes of securing a collaboration with the legendary rapper.
2 Chainz, however, found a more creative way to bypass the expensive fee. While shopping at a Gucci store, he bought a pair of red Gucci shoes for Wayne, symbolizing Wayne’s “red team” affiliation. He then took the shoes to Wayne at the studio, along with a beat CD. “He don’t know I’m about to take it to him,” 2 Chainz explained. Upon receiving the gift, Wayne was impressed, saying, “Damn, these harder than a b*tch.”
The two quickly got into the studio, but there was an issue with the email containing the song, which Wayne had sent. After sorting it out, they listened to the track, and 2 Chainz immediately recognized its potential. “Man, you did that for me?” he asked Wayne. Wayne responded with a simple, “Yeah boy.”
Despite Weezy’s generosity, Baby still expected his $100,000 for the connection. But as 2 Chainz aka “Tony” quipped, “it’s only going to be just 100, not 200.” That song, “Duffle Bag Boy” by Playaz Circle, would go on to become a major hit, cementing its place in Hip-Hop history.
Diddy’s Ex-Assistant Claims He Threatened Her Over Relationship With Suge Knight
A new face has taken the stand as Diddy‘s trafficking trial continues, and it has brought to light some even more frightening allegations. Capricorn Clark, the controversial mogul’s former assistant, claims that he threatened her life due to her relationship with Suge Knight.
Clark worked for Bad Boy Records and Sean John for eight years, but it was her prior work with Def Jam Records and Death Row Records that caused her some trouble from the very beginning of her time under Puff, she claims. Beyond that, Knight was also the father of her friend’s child, thus they had a bond that went beyond business, per what she told prosecutors.
TMZ reports that, according to Clark, she was taken to Central Park at nighttime by the 55-year-old artist and his bodyguard, “Uncle Paulie,” during her first day on the job. She claimed that she was told he would have to kill her “if anything happened,” and that she was terrified because his message “had gravitas.” She also told the story of how they intimidated her when they thought she stole some of Diddy’s jewelry.
Clark told the jury that she had some of his jewelry on loan and had lost it. “Uncle Paulie” allegedly interrogated her for three hours and took her to a building that was under construction. She claimed that she was taken into a room on the sixth floor, and the door was locked behind them as another Diddy associate made her take a lie detector test. When asked what would happen if she didn’t pass, Clark claimed that she was told she’d be thrown into the East River, TMZ reported.
Clark now joins Cassie, Kid Cudi, and multiple sex workers as witnesses having damaging testimonies against the “Last Night” artist. Last week, the jury heard Cudi’s side regarding his relationship with Cassie and how Diddy allegedly abused her. Cassie also revealed traumatic details of her experiences in the “freak-offs” and how his jealousy made him react physically toward her.
A new face has taken the stand as Diddy‘s trafficking trial continues, and it has brought to light some even more frightening allegations. Capricorn Clark, the controversial mogul’s former assistant, claims that he threatened her life due to her relationship with Suge Knight.
Clark worked for Bad Boy Records and Sean John for eight years, but it was her prior work with Def Jam Records and Death Row Records that caused her some trouble from the very beginning of her time under Puff, she claims. Beyond that, Knight was also the father of her friend’s child, thus they had a bond that went beyond business, per what she told prosecutors.
TMZ reports that, according to Clark, she was taken to Central Park at nighttime by the 55-year-old artist and his bodyguard, “Uncle Paulie,” during her first day on the job. She claimed that she was told he would have to kill her “if anything happened,” and that she was terrified because his message “had gravitas.” She also told the story of how they intimidated her when they thought she stole some of Diddy’s jewelry.
Clark told the jury that she had some of his jewelry on loan and had lost it. “Uncle Paulie” allegedly interrogated her for three hours and took her to a building that was under construction. She claimed that she was taken into a room on the sixth floor, and the door was locked behind them as another Diddy associate made her take a lie detector test. When asked what would happen if she didn’t pass, Clark claimed that she was told she’d be thrown into the East River, TMZ reported.
Clark now joins Cassie, Kid Cudi, and multiple sex workers as witnesses having damaging testimonies against the “Last Night” artist. Last week, the jury heard Cudi’s side regarding his relationship with Cassie and how Diddy allegedly abused her. Cassie also revealed traumatic details of her experiences in the “freak-offs” and how his jealousy made him react physically toward her.
T.I.’s Defamation Lawsuit Against Former Friend Sabrina Peterson Over G*n & Sex Trafficking Claims Gets 2026 Trial Date
A trial date has been set for T.I’s defamation lawsuit against Sabrina Peterson. If you recall, their legal battle began in 2021 when Peterson sued both T.I. and Tiny for defamation, invasion of privacy, and emotional distress. She alleged that T.I. pointed a gun at her and that he was under federal investigation for s*x trafficking.
By June 2023, five of her seven claims were tossed out, and the lawsuit was eventually dismissed due to inactivity and nonpayment of nearly $100,000 in court-ordered legal fees.
T.I. filed his own lawsuit in December 2024, claiming her allegations were false, damaging, and invaded his privacy.
Before trial, both sides must attend a private settlement conference by November 24, 2025. If no agreement is reached, trial begins in June 2026.
By June 2023, five of her seven claims were tossed out, and the lawsuit was eventually dismissed due to inactivity and nonpayment of nearly $100,000 in court-ordered legal fees.
T.I. filed his own lawsuit in December 2024, claiming her allegations were false, damaging, and invaded his privacy.
Before trial, both sides must attend a private settlement conference by November 24, 2025. If no agreement is reached, trial begins in June 2026.
Comedian HaHa Davis Released After Domestic Violence Arrest, Says ‘Only Thing We Do Domestic Is Flights’
HaHa Davis is speaking out following his release from jail. The comedian was taken into custody on Friday (May 23) in Utica, Michigan, on domestic violence allegations. He was later released after posting a $5,000 bond. Details surrounding the incident remain limited, but HaHa doesn’t seem pressed.
In an Instagram video shared after his release, HaHa, real name Carlos Davis, appeared on an airplane with frequent collaborator Melly. She noted it was their first time flying together, but he joked in the caption,
“Only thing we do domestic is flights.”
HaHa Davis is speaking out following his release from jail. The comedian was taken into custody on Friday (May 23) in Utica, Michigan, on domestic violence allegations. He was later released after posting a $5,000 bond. Details surrounding the incident remain limited, but HaHa doesn’t seem pressed.
In an Instagram video shared after his release, HaHa, real name Carlos Davis, appeared on an airplane with frequent collaborator Melly. She noted it was their first time flying together, but he joked in the caption,
“Only thing we do domestic is flights.”
Michael Jackson’s Nephew Jaafar ‘Put Himself Through Hell’ To Maintain Icon’s Physique & Performance Style Amid Ongoing Biopic Delays
Michael Jackson’s upcoming biopic, Michael, has faced multiple delays, from the SAG-AFTRA strike to recent reshoots, but Jaafar Jackson, who plays his late uncle, isn’t letting that shake his focus.
Jaafar, 28, has been training intensely for the role since 2023, and a source close to the project tells In Touch he’s been fully locked in, even as the production timeline stretches. They shared:
“I feel sorry for Jaafar in this case because he has put himself through hell to master his late uncle’s performance style, dance moves and general manner He’s had to maintain that peak conditioning and extremely low body fat for more than two years, starting with the early stages of the project and continuing through to the reshoots they’ve been doing this spring.”
While the film is expected to portray Michael in a favorable light, controversy around the star’s legacy adds extra pressure. The source said Jaafar is more concerned with how that tension might impact the final cut.
“It’s also frustrating to him because apart from his own performance, he doesn’t have a lot of control over the rest of the process…The movie still has a delicate balance to strike between covering the Jackson Family’s side of Michael’s legal troubles, while also presenting a couple of dozen of Michael’s most famous musical moments.”
With so much riding on his debut, the source emphasized that Jaafar is giving it everything he’s got.
“Everybody knows they only have one shot at this, and Jaafar has been a team player who pushes himself to the limits every time he gets into his ‘MJ’ makeup.”
Jaafar, 28, has been training intensely for the role since 2023, and a source close to the project tells In Touch he’s been fully locked in, even as the production timeline stretches. They shared:
“I feel sorry for Jaafar in this case because he has put himself through hell to master his late uncle’s performance style, dance moves and general manner He’s had to maintain that peak conditioning and extremely low body fat for more than two years, starting with the early stages of the project and continuing through to the reshoots they’ve been doing this spring.”
While the film is expected to portray Michael in a favorable light, controversy around the star’s legacy adds extra pressure. The source said Jaafar is more concerned with how that tension might impact the final cut.
“It’s also frustrating to him because apart from his own performance, he doesn’t have a lot of control over the rest of the process…The movie still has a delicate balance to strike between covering the Jackson Family’s side of Michael’s legal troubles, while also presenting a couple of dozen of Michael’s most famous musical moments.”
With so much riding on his debut, the source emphasized that Jaafar is giving it everything he’s got.
“Everybody knows they only have one shot at this, and Jaafar has been a team player who pushes himself to the limits every time he gets into his ‘MJ’ makeup.”
American Music Awards Winners 2025: Billie Eilish Sweeps in All Seven Nominated Categories, Beyoncé and Eminem Take Home Two
Billie Eilish, Beyoncé and Eminem were just a few of the big winners during the American Music Awards 2025, produced by Dick Clark Productions and broadcast from Las Vegas.
Eilish won in all seven categories where she was nominated, including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year (“Hit Me Hard and Soft”), Favorite Touring Artist, Favorite Female Pop Artist and Favorite Pop Album (“Hit Me Hard and Soft”). She also won with “Birds of a Feather” for Song of the Year and Favorite Pop Song.
Beyoncé picked up two awards, including Favorite Female Country Artist and Favorite Country Album for “Cowboy Carter.” Post Malone secured his first win in the country category, winning Favorite Male Country Artist, while Eminem won his first AMAs in 15 years for Favorite Male Hip-Hop Artist and Favorite Hip-Hop Album (“The Death of Slim Shady (Coup De Grâce)”). Gracie Abrams was awarded New Artist of the Year, while Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars won Favorite Music Video and Collaboration of the Year for “Die With a Smile.” Gaga separately reigned in Favorite Dance/Electronic Artist, while Mars scored Favorite Male Pop Artist.
Jennifer Lopez returned to host the AMAs for the first time in a decade, opening the evening with a dance medley of 23 of the biggest hits from the past year. Janet Jackson was on hand to accept the Icon Award, giving her first televised performance in seven years.
Taking the stage in a white jacket and baggy jeans, she gave a rendition of her hit “Someone to Call My Lover” (featuring a brief mashup with Mariah Carey’s “Shake It Off”). After wrapping with “All For You,” Jackson accepted the Icon Award, stating that fame was never the intended result of making music.
“No disrespect in any way, but I don’t consider myself an icon. My family, myself, our dream wasn’t ever to be famous. We weren’t raised like that. We always had a special love for music, dancing and singing, and fame came with the result of hard work and dedication,” she said. “My story, my family’s story, it’s truly an American story. This would have only happened in America. The one thing that I hope for is that I’ve been an inspiration to others and artists, to follow their dreams and succeed.”
Rod Stewart was given the Lifetime Achievement Award by five of his children and closed the show with his classic “Forever Young.” “I am absolutely flabbergasted, I didn’t know they were here, my children,” he said during his acceptance speech. “When I started singing in the early 60s, well before all of you lot were here, the reason I got into it was because I had this burning ambition to sing. That’s all I wanted to do. I didn’t want to be rich or famous, and so many years later, I’m here.”
Blake Shelton handled the first performance of the night with his song “Stay Country or Die Tryin’,” while Lainey Wilson kept the country streak going with a rendition of her new single “Somewhere Over Laredo.” Gwen Stefani gave a medley of her new single “Swallow My Tears,” accompanied by renditions of “The Sweet Escape” and “Hollaback Girl.” Benson Boone brought the backflips for “Mystical Magical,” while Renee Rapp debuted her new single “Leave Me Alone.” Gloria Estefan gave a medley of “Rhythm is Gonna Get You,” “La Vecina (No Sé Na’)” and “Conga.” Alex Warren sang “Ordinary,” followed by Becky G teaming up with Manuel Turizo for the first performance of their duet “Que Haces.”
Check out the full list of American Music Awards 2025 winners below:
ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Ariana Grande
Billie Eilish (WINNER)
Chappell Roan
Kendrick Lamar
Morgan Wallen
Post Malone
Sabrina Carpenter
SZA
Taylor Swift
Zach Bryan
NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Benson Boone
Chappell Roan
Gracie Abrams (WINNER)
Shaboozey
Teddy Swims
Tommy Richman
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Beyoncé “Cowboy Carter”
Billie Eilish “Hit Me Hard and Soft” (WINNER)
Chappell Roan “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess”
Charli xcx “BRAT”
Gracie Abrams “The Secret of Us”
Future & Metro Boomin “We Don’t Trust You”
Kendrick Lamar “GNX”
Post Malone “F-1 Trillion”
Sabrina Carpenter “Short n’ Sweet”
Taylor Swift “The Tortured Poets Department”
SONG OF THE YEAR
Benson Boone “Beautiful Things”
Billie Eilish “Birds of a Feather” (WINNER)
Chappell Roan “Good Luck, Babe!”
Hozier “Too Sweet”
Kendrick Lamar “Not Like Us”
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars “Die With A Smile”
Post Malone Featuring Morgan Wallen “I Had Some Help”
Sabrina Carpenter “Espresso”
Shaboozey “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
Teddy Swims “Lose Control”
COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR
Kendrick Lamar & SZA “Luther”
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars “Die With A Smile” (WINNER)
Marshmello & Kane Brown “Miles on It”
Post Malone Featuring Morgan Wallen “I Had Some Help”
ROSÉ & Bruno Mars “APT.”
Taylor Swift Featuring Post Malone “Fortnight”
SOCIAL SONG OF THE YEAR
Chappell Roan “Hot to Go!”
Djo “End of Beginning”
Doechii “Anxiety” (WINNER)
Lola Young “Messy”
Shaboozey “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
Tommy Richman “Million Dollar Baby”
FAVORITE TOURING ARTIST
Billie Eilish (WINNER)
Luke Combs
Morgan Wallen
Taylor Swift
Zach Bryan
FAVORITE MUSIC VIDEO
Benson Boone “Beautiful Things”
KAROL G “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido”
Kendrick Lamar “Not Like Us”
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars “Die With A Smile” (WINNER)
Shaboozey “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
FAVORITE MALE POP ARTIST
Benson Boone
Bruno Mars (WINNER)
Hozier
Teddy Swims
The Weeknd
FAVORITE FEMALE POP ARTIST
Billie Eilish (WINNER)
Chappell Roan
Lady Gaga
Sabrina Carpenter
Taylor Swift
FAVORITE POP ALBUM
Billie Eilish “Hit Me Hard and Soft” (WINNER)
Chappell Roan “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess”
Charli xcx “Brat”
Sabrina Carpenter “Short n’ Sweet”
Taylor Swift “The Tortured Poets Department”
FAVORITE POP SONG
Benson Boone “Beautiful Things”
Billie Eilish “Birds of a Feather” (WINNER)
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars “Die With A Smile”
Sabrina Carpenter “Espresso”
Teddy Swims “Lose Control”
FAVORITE MALE COUNTRY ARTIST
Jelly Roll
Luke Combs
Morgan Wallen
Post Malone (WINNER)
Shaboozey
FAVORITE FEMALE COUNTRY ARTIST
Beyoncé (WINNER)
Ella Langley
Kacey Musgraves
Lainey Wilson
Megan Moroney
FAVORITE COUNTRY DUO or GROUP
Dan + Shay (WINNER)
Old Dominion
Parmalee
The Red Clay Strays
Zac Brown Band
FAVORITE COUNTRY ALBUM
Beyoncé “Cowboy Carter” (WINNER)
Jelly Roll “Beautifully Broken”
Megan Moroney “Am I Okay?”
Post Malone “F-1 Trillion”
Shaboozey “Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going”
FAVORITE COUNTRY SONG
Jelly Roll “I Am Not Okay”
Koe Wetzel & Jessie Murph “High Road”
Luke Combs “Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma”
Post Malone Featuring Morgan Wallen “I Had Some Help” (WINNER)
Shaboozey “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
FAVORITE MALE HIP-HOP ARTIST
Drake
Eminem (WINNER)
Future
Kendrick Lamar
Tyler, The Creator
FAVORITE FEMALE HIP-HOP ARTIST
Doechii
GloRilla
Latto
Megan Thee Stallion (WINNER)
Sexyy Red
FAVORITE HIP-HOP ALBUM
Eminem “The Death Of Slim Shady (Coup De Grâce)” (WINNER)
Future & Metro Boomin “We Don’t Trust You”
Gunna “one of wun”
Kendrick Lamar “GNX”
Tyler, The Creator “CHROMAKOPIA”
FAVORITE HIP-HOP SONG
Future, Metro Boomin & Kendrick Lamar “Like That”
GloRilla “TGIF”
GloRilla & Sexyy Red “WHATCHU KNO ABOUT ME”
Kendrick Lamar “Not Like Us” (WINNER)
Kendrick Lamar & SZA “Luther”
FAVORITE MALE R&B ARTIST
Bryson Tiller
Chris Brown
PARTYNEXTDOOR
The Weeknd (WINNER)
Usher
FAVORITE FEMALE R&B ARTIST
Kehlani
Muni Long
Summer Walker
SZA (WINNER)
Tyla
FAVORITE R&B ALBUM
Bryson Tiller “Bryson Tiller”
PARTYNEXTDOOR “PARTYNEXTDOOR 4 (P4)”
PARTYNEXTDOOR & Drake “$ome $exy $ongs 4 U”
SZA “SOS Deluxe: Lana”
The Weeknd “Hurry Up Tomorrow” (WINNER)
FAVORITE R&B SONG
Chris Brown “Residuals”
Muni Long “Made For Me”
SZA “Saturn” (WINNER)
The Weeknd & Playboi Carti “Timeless”
Tommy Richman “Million Dollar Baby”
FAVORITE MALE LATIN ARTIST
Bad Bunny (WINNER)
Feid
Peso Pluma
Rauw Alejandro
Tito Double P
FAVORITE FEMALE LATIN ARTIST
Becky G (WINNER)
Karol G
Natti Natasha
Shakira
Young Miko
FAVORITE LATIN DUO or GROUP
Calibre 50
Fuerza Regida
Grupo Firme
Grupo Frontera
Julión Álvarez y su Norteño Banda (WINNER)
FAVORITE LATIN ALBUM
Bad Bunny “DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS” (WINNER)
Fuerza Regida “Dolido Pero No Arrepentido”
Peso Pluma “ÉXODO”
Rauw Alejandro “Cosa Nuestra”
Tito Double P “INCÓMODO”
FAVORITE LATIN SONG
Bad Bunny “DtMF”
FloyyMenor X Cris Mj “Gata Only”
Karol G “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido”
Oscar Maydon & Fuerza Regida “Tu Boda”
Shakira “Soltera” (WINNER)
FAVORITE ROCK ARTIST
Hozier
Linkin Park
Pearl Jam
Twenty One Pilots (WINNER)
Zach Bryan
FAVORITE ROCK ALBUM
Hozier “Unreal Unearth: Unending”
Koe Wetzel “9 lives”
The Marías “Submarine”
Twenty One Pilots “Clancy” (WINNER)
Zach Bryan “The Great American Bar Scene”
FAVORITE ROCK SONG
Green Day “Dilemma”
Hozier “Too Sweet”
Linkin Park “The Emptiness Machine” (WINNER)
Myles Smith “Stargazing”
Zach Bryan “Pink Skies”
FAVORITE DANCE/ELECTRONIC ARTIST
Charli XCX
David Guetta
John Summit
Lady Gaga (WINNER)
Marshmello
FAVORITE SOUNDTRACK
Arcane League of Legends: Season 2 (WINNER)
Hazbin Hotel (Original Soundtrack)
Moana 2 (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) • Auliʻi Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson and Cast
Twisters: The Album
Wicked: The Soundtrack • Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande and Cast
FAVORITE AFROBEATS ARTIST
Asake
Rema
Tems
Tyla (WINNER)
Wizkid
FAVORITE K-POP ARTIST
Ateez
Jimin
RM (WINNER)
ROSÉ
Stray Kids
Billie Eilish, Beyoncé and Eminem were just a few of the big winners during the American Music Awards 2025, produced by Dick Clark Productions and broadcast from Las Vegas.
Eilish won in all seven categories where she was nominated, including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year (“Hit Me Hard and Soft”), Favorite Touring Artist, Favorite Female Pop Artist and Favorite Pop Album (“Hit Me Hard and Soft”). She also won with “Birds of a Feather” for Song of the Year and Favorite Pop Song.
Beyoncé picked up two awards, including Favorite Female Country Artist and Favorite Country Album for “Cowboy Carter.” Post Malone secured his first win in the country category, winning Favorite Male Country Artist, while Eminem won his first AMAs in 15 years for Favorite Male Hip-Hop Artist and Favorite Hip-Hop Album (“The Death of Slim Shady (Coup De Grâce)”). Gracie Abrams was awarded New Artist of the Year, while Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars won Favorite Music Video and Collaboration of the Year for “Die With a Smile.” Gaga separately reigned in Favorite Dance/Electronic Artist, while Mars scored Favorite Male Pop Artist.
Jennifer Lopez returned to host the AMAs for the first time in a decade, opening the evening with a dance medley of 23 of the biggest hits from the past year. Janet Jackson was on hand to accept the Icon Award, giving her first televised performance in seven years.
Taking the stage in a white jacket and baggy jeans, she gave a rendition of her hit “Someone to Call My Lover” (featuring a brief mashup with Mariah Carey’s “Shake It Off”). After wrapping with “All For You,” Jackson accepted the Icon Award, stating that fame was never the intended result of making music.
“No disrespect in any way, but I don’t consider myself an icon. My family, myself, our dream wasn’t ever to be famous. We weren’t raised like that. We always had a special love for music, dancing and singing, and fame came with the result of hard work and dedication,” she said. “My story, my family’s story, it’s truly an American story. This would have only happened in America. The one thing that I hope for is that I’ve been an inspiration to others and artists, to follow their dreams and succeed.”
Rod Stewart was given the Lifetime Achievement Award by five of his children and closed the show with his classic “Forever Young.” “I am absolutely flabbergasted, I didn’t know they were here, my children,” he said during his acceptance speech. “When I started singing in the early 60s, well before all of you lot were here, the reason I got into it was because I had this burning ambition to sing. That’s all I wanted to do. I didn’t want to be rich or famous, and so many years later, I’m here.”
Blake Shelton handled the first performance of the night with his song “Stay Country or Die Tryin’,” while Lainey Wilson kept the country streak going with a rendition of her new single “Somewhere Over Laredo.” Gwen Stefani gave a medley of her new single “Swallow My Tears,” accompanied by renditions of “The Sweet Escape” and “Hollaback Girl.” Benson Boone brought the backflips for “Mystical Magical,” while Renee Rapp debuted her new single “Leave Me Alone.” Gloria Estefan gave a medley of “Rhythm is Gonna Get You,” “La Vecina (No Sé Na’)” and “Conga.” Alex Warren sang “Ordinary,” followed by Becky G teaming up with Manuel Turizo for the first performance of their duet “Que Haces.”
Check out the full list of American Music Awards 2025 winners below:
ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Ariana Grande
Billie Eilish (WINNER)
Chappell Roan
Kendrick Lamar
Morgan Wallen
Post Malone
Sabrina Carpenter
SZA
Taylor Swift
Zach Bryan
NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Benson Boone
Chappell Roan
Gracie Abrams (WINNER)
Shaboozey
Teddy Swims
Tommy Richman
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Beyoncé “Cowboy Carter”
Billie Eilish “Hit Me Hard and Soft” (WINNER)
Chappell Roan “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess”
Charli xcx “BRAT”
Gracie Abrams “The Secret of Us”
Future & Metro Boomin “We Don’t Trust You”
Kendrick Lamar “GNX”
Post Malone “F-1 Trillion”
Sabrina Carpenter “Short n’ Sweet”
Taylor Swift “The Tortured Poets Department”
SONG OF THE YEAR
Benson Boone “Beautiful Things”
Billie Eilish “Birds of a Feather” (WINNER)
Chappell Roan “Good Luck, Babe!”
Hozier “Too Sweet”
Kendrick Lamar “Not Like Us”
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars “Die With A Smile”
Post Malone Featuring Morgan Wallen “I Had Some Help”
Sabrina Carpenter “Espresso”
Shaboozey “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
Teddy Swims “Lose Control”
COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR
Kendrick Lamar & SZA “Luther”
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars “Die With A Smile” (WINNER)
Marshmello & Kane Brown “Miles on It”
Post Malone Featuring Morgan Wallen “I Had Some Help”
ROSÉ & Bruno Mars “APT.”
Taylor Swift Featuring Post Malone “Fortnight”
SOCIAL SONG OF THE YEAR
Chappell Roan “Hot to Go!”
Djo “End of Beginning”
Doechii “Anxiety” (WINNER)
Lola Young “Messy”
Shaboozey “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
Tommy Richman “Million Dollar Baby”
FAVORITE TOURING ARTIST
Billie Eilish (WINNER)
Luke Combs
Morgan Wallen
Taylor Swift
Zach Bryan
FAVORITE MUSIC VIDEO
Benson Boone “Beautiful Things”
KAROL G “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido”
Kendrick Lamar “Not Like Us”
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars “Die With A Smile” (WINNER)
Shaboozey “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
FAVORITE MALE POP ARTIST
Benson Boone
Bruno Mars (WINNER)
Hozier
Teddy Swims
The Weeknd
FAVORITE FEMALE POP ARTIST
Billie Eilish (WINNER)
Chappell Roan
Lady Gaga
Sabrina Carpenter
Taylor Swift
FAVORITE POP ALBUM
Billie Eilish “Hit Me Hard and Soft” (WINNER)
Chappell Roan “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess”
Charli xcx “Brat”
Sabrina Carpenter “Short n’ Sweet”
Taylor Swift “The Tortured Poets Department”
FAVORITE POP SONG
Benson Boone “Beautiful Things”
Billie Eilish “Birds of a Feather” (WINNER)
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars “Die With A Smile”
Sabrina Carpenter “Espresso”
Teddy Swims “Lose Control”
FAVORITE MALE COUNTRY ARTIST
Jelly Roll
Luke Combs
Morgan Wallen
Post Malone (WINNER)
Shaboozey
FAVORITE FEMALE COUNTRY ARTIST
Beyoncé (WINNER)
Ella Langley
Kacey Musgraves
Lainey Wilson
Megan Moroney
FAVORITE COUNTRY DUO or GROUP
Dan + Shay (WINNER)
Old Dominion
Parmalee
The Red Clay Strays
Zac Brown Band
FAVORITE COUNTRY ALBUM
Beyoncé “Cowboy Carter” (WINNER)
Jelly Roll “Beautifully Broken”
Megan Moroney “Am I Okay?”
Post Malone “F-1 Trillion”
Shaboozey “Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going”
FAVORITE COUNTRY SONG
Jelly Roll “I Am Not Okay”
Koe Wetzel & Jessie Murph “High Road”
Luke Combs “Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma”
Post Malone Featuring Morgan Wallen “I Had Some Help” (WINNER)
Shaboozey “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
FAVORITE MALE HIP-HOP ARTIST
Drake
Eminem (WINNER)
Future
Kendrick Lamar
Tyler, The Creator
FAVORITE FEMALE HIP-HOP ARTIST
Doechii
GloRilla
Latto
Megan Thee Stallion (WINNER)
Sexyy Red
FAVORITE HIP-HOP ALBUM
Eminem “The Death Of Slim Shady (Coup De Grâce)” (WINNER)
Future & Metro Boomin “We Don’t Trust You”
Gunna “one of wun”
Kendrick Lamar “GNX”
Tyler, The Creator “CHROMAKOPIA”
FAVORITE HIP-HOP SONG
Future, Metro Boomin & Kendrick Lamar “Like That”
GloRilla “TGIF”
GloRilla & Sexyy Red “WHATCHU KNO ABOUT ME”
Kendrick Lamar “Not Like Us” (WINNER)
Kendrick Lamar & SZA “Luther”
FAVORITE MALE R&B ARTIST
Bryson Tiller
Chris Brown
PARTYNEXTDOOR
The Weeknd (WINNER)
Usher
FAVORITE FEMALE R&B ARTIST
Kehlani
Muni Long
Summer Walker
SZA (WINNER)
Tyla
FAVORITE R&B ALBUM
Bryson Tiller “Bryson Tiller”
PARTYNEXTDOOR “PARTYNEXTDOOR 4 (P4)”
PARTYNEXTDOOR & Drake “$ome $exy $ongs 4 U”
SZA “SOS Deluxe: Lana”
The Weeknd “Hurry Up Tomorrow” (WINNER)
FAVORITE R&B SONG
Chris Brown “Residuals”
Muni Long “Made For Me”
SZA “Saturn” (WINNER)
The Weeknd & Playboi Carti “Timeless”
Tommy Richman “Million Dollar Baby”
FAVORITE MALE LATIN ARTIST
Bad Bunny (WINNER)
Feid
Peso Pluma
Rauw Alejandro
Tito Double P
FAVORITE FEMALE LATIN ARTIST
Becky G (WINNER)
Karol G
Natti Natasha
Shakira
Young Miko
FAVORITE LATIN DUO or GROUP
Calibre 50
Fuerza Regida
Grupo Firme
Grupo Frontera
Julión Álvarez y su Norteño Banda (WINNER)
FAVORITE LATIN ALBUM
Bad Bunny “DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS” (WINNER)
Fuerza Regida “Dolido Pero No Arrepentido”
Peso Pluma “ÉXODO”
Rauw Alejandro “Cosa Nuestra”
Tito Double P “INCÓMODO”
FAVORITE LATIN SONG
Bad Bunny “DtMF”
FloyyMenor X Cris Mj “Gata Only”
Karol G “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido”
Oscar Maydon & Fuerza Regida “Tu Boda”
Shakira “Soltera” (WINNER)
FAVORITE ROCK ARTIST
Hozier
Linkin Park
Pearl Jam
Twenty One Pilots (WINNER)
Zach Bryan
FAVORITE ROCK ALBUM
Hozier “Unreal Unearth: Unending”
Koe Wetzel “9 lives”
The Marías “Submarine”
Twenty One Pilots “Clancy” (WINNER)
Zach Bryan “The Great American Bar Scene”
FAVORITE ROCK SONG
Green Day “Dilemma”
Hozier “Too Sweet”
Linkin Park “The Emptiness Machine” (WINNER)
Myles Smith “Stargazing”
Zach Bryan “Pink Skies”
FAVORITE DANCE/ELECTRONIC ARTIST
Charli XCX
David Guetta
John Summit
Lady Gaga (WINNER)
Marshmello
FAVORITE SOUNDTRACK
Arcane League of Legends: Season 2 (WINNER)
Hazbin Hotel (Original Soundtrack)
Moana 2 (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) • Auliʻi Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson and Cast
Twisters: The Album
Wicked: The Soundtrack • Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande and Cast
FAVORITE AFROBEATS ARTIST
Asake
Rema
Tems
Tyla (WINNER)
Wizkid
FAVORITE K-POP ARTIST
Ateez
Jimin
RM (WINNER)
ROSÉ
Stray Kids
Congrats to all the winners!
Janet Jackson receives Icon Award at 2025 American Music Awards, performs on TV for first time in 7 years
Music legend Janet Jackson returned to perform on TV for the first time in seven years at the 2025 American Music Awards on Monday.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, who turned 59 earlier this month, sang and danced to her hits "Someone to Call My Lover" and "All For You" in front of the star-studded audience at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas on Memorial Day before she was honored with the show's Icon Award.
"I'm so honored. I'm so grateful," Jackson said as she accepted the Icon Award, which has previously been given to Rihanna in 2013 and Lionel Richie in 2022.
"I mean no disrespect in any way but I don't consider myself an icon. My family, myself, our dream was to, it wasn't ever to be famous. We always had a special love for music, dancing and singing. Fame came as a result of hard work and dedication," she said. "My story, my family story, is truly an American story. This would have only happened in America. The only thing that I hope for is that I've been an inspiration to other and artists to follow their dreams and succeed."
Jackson, an 11-time American Music Award winner and a five-time Grammy winner, has been topping the charts for decades. The youngest of the 10 Jackson children, she grew up performing with her sisters and brothers, including the late Michael Jackson,.
To date, "Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation 1814" is the only album to generate seven Top Five-charting songs on the Billboard Hot 100. "Someone To Call My Lover," part of the seventh studio album "All For You," although originally released in 2001, recently climbed back on the Billboard 100 after the track gained popularity on TikTok.
With hit songs like "All For You," "That's the Way Love Goes," "Nasty," "Together Again" and "What Have You Done For Me Lately," Jackson was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019, with many seeing it as an overdue honor.
In December 2024, Jackson launched a Vegas residency at Resorts World Theatre, and she's set to return to the same stage for three more performances this week.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, who turned 59 earlier this month, sang and danced to her hits "Someone to Call My Lover" and "All For You" in front of the star-studded audience at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas on Memorial Day before she was honored with the show's Icon Award.
"I'm so honored. I'm so grateful," Jackson said as she accepted the Icon Award, which has previously been given to Rihanna in 2013 and Lionel Richie in 2022.
"I mean no disrespect in any way but I don't consider myself an icon. My family, myself, our dream was to, it wasn't ever to be famous. We always had a special love for music, dancing and singing. Fame came as a result of hard work and dedication," she said. "My story, my family story, is truly an American story. This would have only happened in America. The only thing that I hope for is that I've been an inspiration to other and artists to follow their dreams and succeed."
Jackson, an 11-time American Music Award winner and a five-time Grammy winner, has been topping the charts for decades. The youngest of the 10 Jackson children, she grew up performing with her sisters and brothers, including the late Michael Jackson,.
To date, "Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation 1814" is the only album to generate seven Top Five-charting songs on the Billboard Hot 100. "Someone To Call My Lover," part of the seventh studio album "All For You," although originally released in 2001, recently climbed back on the Billboard 100 after the track gained popularity on TikTok.
With hit songs like "All For You," "That's the Way Love Goes," "Nasty," "Together Again" and "What Have You Done For Me Lately," Jackson was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019, with many seeing it as an overdue honor.
In December 2024, Jackson launched a Vegas residency at Resorts World Theatre, and she's set to return to the same stage for three more performances this week.
Patti LuPone faces backlash over foul-mouthed comments about fellow Broadway stars Kecia Lewis and Audra McDonald
Patti LuPone’s comments have landed her in hot water with the Broadway community yet again.
This time she lashed out following a conflict over distracting noise through a shared wall from another Broadway production.
LuPone, 76, was starring in The Roommate opposite Tony-nominated Mia Farrow earlier in the Broadway season when she took issue with the loudness of their neighboring show, the Alicia Keys jukebox musical, Hell’s Kitchen. The sound was reportedly bleeding through from theater-to-theater, causing an issue for LuPone.
After calling up Robert Wankel, the head of the Shubert Organization, the issue was addressed, and LuPone sent flowers to the musical’s crew to thank them.
LuPone was then surprised when a performer from Hell’s Kitchen, Tony winner Kecia Lewis, posted a video on Instagram about the issue. Lewis, speaking as one Broadway “veteran” to another, deemed LuPone’s actions “bullying,” “racially micro-aggressive,” and “rooted in privilege,” as she called “a Black show loud.”
When asked about the incident in a recent profile by The New Yorker, LuPone didn’t hold back.
“Here’s the problem. She calls herself a veteran? Let’s find out how many Broadway shows Kecia Lewis has done, because she doesn’t know what the f*** she’s talking about,” LuPone ranted to the outlet.
“She’s done seven. I’ve done 31. Don’t call yourself a vet, bitch.”
The New Yorker did fact check the numbers and reported that Lewis has done 10 Broadway productions, while LuPone has done 28.
LuPone then continued to address the sound issue, saying: “This is not unusual on Broadway. This happens all the time when walls are shared.”
Many have called the three-time Tony winner out for her comments about Lewis.
“Patti does not come out of this looking good. What a hater,” someone wrote on X.
“Calling Kecia [a] bitch really just took me out, like I actually can’t believe the audacity,” someone else shared, to which another responded: “Unwarranted and nasty.”
“Patti is so tactless and tone deaf … like, girl,” another said.
“It was so unbelievably uncalled for and honestly so jarring to read. The nerve to diminish Ms. Lewis’ legacy and accomplishments and then call her out of her name in that way is unacceptable. I’m actually really hurt to see that from her,” someone else wrote.
“The article just got worse the more I read. Oh my god. How disheartening,” another shared.
Kecia Lewis accepts a 2024 Tony Award for her role in ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ (Invision)
LuPone also refused to comment on the current revival of Gypsy.
The production stars six-time Tony winner Audra McDonald as Rose, a role LuPone won her second Tony for in 2008. When asked her thoughts on the production — which features a Black woman as the central character for the first time ever — LuPone “stared in silence for 15 seconds,” according to The New Yorker. She then changed the subject.
LuPone has infamously put her foot in her mouth before, riling the theater community on multiple occasions. She has taken cellphones from audience members daring to use them during her performances, and has blasted American politicians — including the current president — at red carpet events.
One recent incident in 2022 came during a talkback for the revival of Stephen Sondheim’s Company, in which she played Joanne , which earned LuPone her third Tony. LuPone lashed out at an audience member who wasn’t wearing their mask correctly in the days when Covid restrictions were still commonplace in theaters.
“Put your mask over your nose ... That is the rule,” she commanded. “If you don’t want to follow the rule, get the f*** out!”
Patti LuPone’s comments have landed her in hot water with the Broadway community yet again.
This time she lashed out following a conflict over distracting noise through a shared wall from another Broadway production.
LuPone, 76, was starring in The Roommate opposite Tony-nominated Mia Farrow earlier in the Broadway season when she took issue with the loudness of their neighboring show, the Alicia Keys jukebox musical, Hell’s Kitchen. The sound was reportedly bleeding through from theater-to-theater, causing an issue for LuPone.
After calling up Robert Wankel, the head of the Shubert Organization, the issue was addressed, and LuPone sent flowers to the musical’s crew to thank them.
LuPone was then surprised when a performer from Hell’s Kitchen, Tony winner Kecia Lewis, posted a video on Instagram about the issue. Lewis, speaking as one Broadway “veteran” to another, deemed LuPone’s actions “bullying,” “racially micro-aggressive,” and “rooted in privilege,” as she called “a Black show loud.”
When asked about the incident in a recent profile by The New Yorker, LuPone didn’t hold back.
“Here’s the problem. She calls herself a veteran? Let’s find out how many Broadway shows Kecia Lewis has done, because she doesn’t know what the f*** she’s talking about,” LuPone ranted to the outlet.
“She’s done seven. I’ve done 31. Don’t call yourself a vet, bitch.”
The New Yorker did fact check the numbers and reported that Lewis has done 10 Broadway productions, while LuPone has done 28.
LuPone then continued to address the sound issue, saying: “This is not unusual on Broadway. This happens all the time when walls are shared.”
Many have called the three-time Tony winner out for her comments about Lewis.
“Patti does not come out of this looking good. What a hater,” someone wrote on X.
“Calling Kecia [a] bitch really just took me out, like I actually can’t believe the audacity,” someone else shared, to which another responded: “Unwarranted and nasty.”
“Patti is so tactless and tone deaf … like, girl,” another said.
“It was so unbelievably uncalled for and honestly so jarring to read. The nerve to diminish Ms. Lewis’ legacy and accomplishments and then call her out of her name in that way is unacceptable. I’m actually really hurt to see that from her,” someone else wrote.
“The article just got worse the more I read. Oh my god. How disheartening,” another shared.
Kecia Lewis accepts a 2024 Tony Award for her role in ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ (Invision)
LuPone also refused to comment on the current revival of Gypsy.
The production stars six-time Tony winner Audra McDonald as Rose, a role LuPone won her second Tony for in 2008. When asked her thoughts on the production — which features a Black woman as the central character for the first time ever — LuPone “stared in silence for 15 seconds,” according to The New Yorker. She then changed the subject.
LuPone has infamously put her foot in her mouth before, riling the theater community on multiple occasions. She has taken cellphones from audience members daring to use them during her performances, and has blasted American politicians — including the current president — at red carpet events.
One recent incident in 2022 came during a talkback for the revival of Stephen Sondheim’s Company, in which she played Joanne , which earned LuPone her third Tony. LuPone lashed out at an audience member who wasn’t wearing their mask correctly in the days when Covid restrictions were still commonplace in theaters.
“Put your mask over your nose ... That is the rule,” she commanded. “If you don’t want to follow the rule, get the f*** out!”
Nicci Gilbert Offers Apology to Tory Lanez Amidst Ongoing Legal Saga
Nicci Gilbert, known for her role in the R&B group Brownstone and as a reality TV personality, has publicly apologized to incarcerated rapper Tory Lanez. The apology comes amidst the lingering fallout from the highly publicized legal battle involving Lanez and Megan Thee Stallion.
Gilbert took to B High TV to express her regret, admitting that she had previously rushed to judgment regarding Lanez’s actions. Her statement suggests a reevaluation of the information and narratives that have surrounded the contentious case.
“I owe Tory Lanez an apology,” Gilbert reportedly stated.
This apology from Gilbert is significant given the divisive nature of the Tory Lanez and Megan Thee Stallion case, which saw strong opinions form on both sides within the entertainment industry and among the public. Lanez was ultimately convicted of three felony charges – assault with a semi-automatic firearm, carrying a loaded, unregistered firearm in a vehicle, and negligent discharge of a firearm – related to the 2020 shooting of Megan Thee Stallion.
Gilbert’s change of heart and public apology stand out as many celebrities and public figures initially condemned Lanez following the accusations and subsequent trial. Her statement indicates a shift in perspective, though the specific reasons for this reevaluation are not fully detailed in the report. It’s possible she may be reacting to new information, reconsidering past narratives, or simply expressing a personal sentiment.
The apology has undoubtedly sparked new conversations online, with some commending Gilbert for her willingness to admit a mistake and others questioning the timing and implications of such a statement given Lanez’s conviction.
Gilbert took to B High TV to express her regret, admitting that she had previously rushed to judgment regarding Lanez’s actions. Her statement suggests a reevaluation of the information and narratives that have surrounded the contentious case.
“I owe Tory Lanez an apology,” Gilbert reportedly stated.
This apology from Gilbert is significant given the divisive nature of the Tory Lanez and Megan Thee Stallion case, which saw strong opinions form on both sides within the entertainment industry and among the public. Lanez was ultimately convicted of three felony charges – assault with a semi-automatic firearm, carrying a loaded, unregistered firearm in a vehicle, and negligent discharge of a firearm – related to the 2020 shooting of Megan Thee Stallion.
Gilbert’s change of heart and public apology stand out as many celebrities and public figures initially condemned Lanez following the accusations and subsequent trial. Her statement indicates a shift in perspective, though the specific reasons for this reevaluation are not fully detailed in the report. It’s possible she may be reacting to new information, reconsidering past narratives, or simply expressing a personal sentiment.
The apology has undoubtedly sparked new conversations online, with some commending Gilbert for her willingness to admit a mistake and others questioning the timing and implications of such a statement given Lanez’s conviction.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor Tapped For Rosetta Tharpe Biopic
Rosetta Tharpe was a trailblazing Black musician who found fame early on as a gospel artist before shifting to rock and roll and inspiring several future legends. Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor has been tapped to pen a script for a biopic about Sister Rosetta Tharpe, with legendary rocker Mick Jagger serving as a producer.
Deadline reports that the Sister Rosetta Tharpe biopic was set in motion after Live Nation Productions reached out to Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor to piece together the script. Along with Jagger’s Jagged Films, the film is also being produced by Tribeca Studios and Inaudible Productions.
Sister Rosetta Tharpe emerged on the music scene first in the world of gospel, releasing her first recordings at the age of 23 in 1938. One of the singles, “Rock Me,” would become a hit and influenced the likes of Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Little Richard, among others.
Tharpe would mix gospel lyrics with secular music, which angered some. She went on to perform her mix of gospel and rhythm and blues, all accented by her guitar playing. The image of a Black woman singing gospel music inside secular establishments, along with her chosen instrument, caused many to not support her musical endeavors despite her quietly influencing future musical superstars along the way.
In interviews, Tharpe essentially framed rock and roll as rhythm and blues at a faster pace. Sister Rosetta Tharpe passed away in 1973, but was acknowledged by her peers as a pioneering voice for rock and roll.
Along with the biopic, there will be a documentary about Tharpe centering on her contributions to music and her lasting influence, most especially in the world of guitars. The film will also pull from author Gayle Wald’s Shout, Sister, Shout!: The Untold Story of Rock-and-Roll Trailblazer Sister Rosetta Tharpe biography.
Rosetta Tharpe was a trailblazing Black musician who found fame early on as a gospel artist before shifting to rock and roll and inspiring several future legends. Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor has been tapped to pen a script for a biopic about Sister Rosetta Tharpe, with legendary rocker Mick Jagger serving as a producer.
Deadline reports that the Sister Rosetta Tharpe biopic was set in motion after Live Nation Productions reached out to Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor to piece together the script. Along with Jagger’s Jagged Films, the film is also being produced by Tribeca Studios and Inaudible Productions.
Sister Rosetta Tharpe emerged on the music scene first in the world of gospel, releasing her first recordings at the age of 23 in 1938. One of the singles, “Rock Me,” would become a hit and influenced the likes of Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Little Richard, among others.
Tharpe would mix gospel lyrics with secular music, which angered some. She went on to perform her mix of gospel and rhythm and blues, all accented by her guitar playing. The image of a Black woman singing gospel music inside secular establishments, along with her chosen instrument, caused many to not support her musical endeavors despite her quietly influencing future musical superstars along the way.
In interviews, Tharpe essentially framed rock and roll as rhythm and blues at a faster pace. Sister Rosetta Tharpe passed away in 1973, but was acknowledged by her peers as a pioneering voice for rock and roll.
Along with the biopic, there will be a documentary about Tharpe centering on her contributions to music and her lasting influence, most especially in the world of guitars. The film will also pull from author Gayle Wald’s Shout, Sister, Shout!: The Untold Story of Rock-and-Roll Trailblazer Sister Rosetta Tharpe biography.
Omarosa Manigault Newman Triumphs with Dual JD/MBA Degrees, Eyes Advocacy Role
Omarosa Manigault Newman achieved a monumental milestone on May 17, graduating from Southern University Law Center with both a Juris Doctor and a Master of Business Administration.
“Graduating with my JD/MBA degree, is a culmination of a promise I made to myself–to never give up on my dreams,” Manigault Newman said in an interview with PEOPLE, reflecting on her journey of resilience. “It’s deeply personal for me in terms of the power of perseverance, I set this goal and, no matter how long it took me, I saw it through to the end.”
Her path to law school was anything but linear. After earning a master’s degree from Howard University, Manigault Newman intended to pursue law immediately, even securing a recommendation from former President Bill Clinton while working in his administration. However, her casting on “The Apprentice” in 2004 shifted her trajectory.
“Life had other plans when I was cast on the first season of The Apprentice with Donald Trump, and the rest is history,” she recalled. Despite a prolific television career, her dream of becoming a lawyer never faded.
At Southern University, Manigault Newman excelled, serving as president of the SULC Rotaract chapter and senior editor of the Journal of International Law, Business & Policy. The school praised her commitment, noting she “exemplified leadership” while balancing her studies with filming Hulu’s “Got to Get Out.”
“Graduating from Southern University Law School has been enriching,” she said in a statement shared by the school. “I’m proud to have balanced my studies with my work in entertainment, and I look forward to using my legal education to advocate for justice in every field I touch.”
In a press release, Southern University Law Center noted that the reality star embodies “an unwavering commitment to advocacy, leadership, and the pursuit of justice.” Her induction into the Order of the Barristers, a prestigious honor recognizing exceptional oral advocacy and legal writing, further underscored her dedication.
Manigault Newman sees her legal education as a tool for change. “Watching what’s happening in this country right now, you see first-hand that it’s the lawyers who are on the front lines, defending the rule of law when our democracy is clearly under threat,” she told PEOPLE.
Looking ahead, she plans to hone her litigation skills at The Cochran Firm.
“This summer, I’ll be sharpening my litigation and trial skills at The Cochran Firm. I’ve always looked up to the late Johnnie Cochran and the impact he made in the community and courtroom,” she said.
“Graduating with my JD/MBA degree, is a culmination of a promise I made to myself–to never give up on my dreams,” Manigault Newman said in an interview with PEOPLE, reflecting on her journey of resilience. “It’s deeply personal for me in terms of the power of perseverance, I set this goal and, no matter how long it took me, I saw it through to the end.”
Her path to law school was anything but linear. After earning a master’s degree from Howard University, Manigault Newman intended to pursue law immediately, even securing a recommendation from former President Bill Clinton while working in his administration. However, her casting on “The Apprentice” in 2004 shifted her trajectory.
“Life had other plans when I was cast on the first season of The Apprentice with Donald Trump, and the rest is history,” she recalled. Despite a prolific television career, her dream of becoming a lawyer never faded.
At Southern University, Manigault Newman excelled, serving as president of the SULC Rotaract chapter and senior editor of the Journal of International Law, Business & Policy. The school praised her commitment, noting she “exemplified leadership” while balancing her studies with filming Hulu’s “Got to Get Out.”
“Graduating from Southern University Law School has been enriching,” she said in a statement shared by the school. “I’m proud to have balanced my studies with my work in entertainment, and I look forward to using my legal education to advocate for justice in every field I touch.”
In a press release, Southern University Law Center noted that the reality star embodies “an unwavering commitment to advocacy, leadership, and the pursuit of justice.” Her induction into the Order of the Barristers, a prestigious honor recognizing exceptional oral advocacy and legal writing, further underscored her dedication.
Manigault Newman sees her legal education as a tool for change. “Watching what’s happening in this country right now, you see first-hand that it’s the lawyers who are on the front lines, defending the rule of law when our democracy is clearly under threat,” she told PEOPLE.
Looking ahead, she plans to hone her litigation skills at The Cochran Firm.
“This summer, I’ll be sharpening my litigation and trial skills at The Cochran Firm. I’ve always looked up to the late Johnnie Cochran and the impact he made in the community and courtroom,” she said.
Megan Thee Stallion to host panel and cosplay contest at Dream Con 2025 in Houston
The event, known for its celebration of anime, gaming, comics, and pop culture, will take over the George R. Brown Convention Center, and Megan is set to be front and center.
She’ll be leading a panel focused on creative storytelling, community building, and brand development, drawing from her own experience as an artist and businesswoman. The panel will wrap up with a mini cosplay contest for fans.
But her presence at Dream Con goes beyond the stage. Megan’s tequila brand, Chicas Divertidas, will be the official tequila sponsor for the event.
Guests 21 and up can expect daytime tastings and exclusive cocktails throughout the weekend. She’s also scheduled to make a special appearance at one of the official Dream Con after-parties.
If you’ve followed Megan at all, you know this appearance makes perfect sense. She’s been vocal for years about her love for anime, often weaving it into her fashion and public persona.
She’s rocked a Yumeko Jabami cosplay from Kakegurui, shown off Blue Exorcist-inspired manicures, and frequently name-drops series like Hunter x Hunter and Attack on Titan in interviews. Anime isn’t a trend for her, it’s part of her daily routine.
Dream Con itself was founded by RDCWorld, a group of content creators who turned their passion for anime and gaming into a full-fledged movement.
According to the Dream Con website, their goal has always been to create a more inclusive space in fandom culture, spotlighting creators and fans who don’t always get recognized in mainstream spaces.
With Dream Con making its Houston debut and Megan Thee Stallion on the guest list, this year’s convention is already shaping up to be something special.
The event, known for its celebration of anime, gaming, comics, and pop culture, will take over the George R. Brown Convention Center, and Megan is set to be front and center.
She’ll be leading a panel focused on creative storytelling, community building, and brand development, drawing from her own experience as an artist and businesswoman. The panel will wrap up with a mini cosplay contest for fans.
But her presence at Dream Con goes beyond the stage. Megan’s tequila brand, Chicas Divertidas, will be the official tequila sponsor for the event.
Guests 21 and up can expect daytime tastings and exclusive cocktails throughout the weekend. She’s also scheduled to make a special appearance at one of the official Dream Con after-parties.
If you’ve followed Megan at all, you know this appearance makes perfect sense. She’s been vocal for years about her love for anime, often weaving it into her fashion and public persona.
She’s rocked a Yumeko Jabami cosplay from Kakegurui, shown off Blue Exorcist-inspired manicures, and frequently name-drops series like Hunter x Hunter and Attack on Titan in interviews. Anime isn’t a trend for her, it’s part of her daily routine.
Dream Con itself was founded by RDCWorld, a group of content creators who turned their passion for anime and gaming into a full-fledged movement.
According to the Dream Con website, their goal has always been to create a more inclusive space in fandom culture, spotlighting creators and fans who don’t always get recognized in mainstream spaces.
With Dream Con making its Houston debut and Megan Thee Stallion on the guest list, this year’s convention is already shaping up to be something special.
Southwest Airlines to Officially End Its Free Two-Bag Policy on Wednesday
Starting Wednesday, Southwest Airlines will officially start charging passengers to check bags, for the first time in its more than 50-year history.
The beloved “two bags fly free” policy, a standout perk that helped Southwest build a loyal customer base, is coming to an end. Now, it’ll cost $35 to check your first bag and $45 for the second on most fare types.
This major change is part of a broader shakeup at the airline. For months, Southwest has been under pressure to boost profits, especially from activist investor Elliott Investment Management, which grabbed five board seats and pushed for changes like baggage fees, seat assignments, and fare overhauls.
A Southwest spokesperson confirmed the new charges apply to Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares bought on or after Wednesday. Previously purchased tickets will still honor the two-free-bags promise.
There are a few exceptions. Business Select travelers, top-tier Rapid Rewards members, and customers using a Southwest co-branded credit card will still get free checked bags. A-List members keep their first bag free, too.
The airline is also introducing basic economy fares, ending its longtime Wanna Get Away tier. Open seating is on its way out, with assigned seats coming for 2026 flights and premium legroom seats joining the mix.
Despite social media dragging the change, CEO Bob Jordan told CNBC, “We have seen no book-down on that day or after that day.”
The beloved “two bags fly free” policy, a standout perk that helped Southwest build a loyal customer base, is coming to an end. Now, it’ll cost $35 to check your first bag and $45 for the second on most fare types.
This major change is part of a broader shakeup at the airline. For months, Southwest has been under pressure to boost profits, especially from activist investor Elliott Investment Management, which grabbed five board seats and pushed for changes like baggage fees, seat assignments, and fare overhauls.
A Southwest spokesperson confirmed the new charges apply to Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares bought on or after Wednesday. Previously purchased tickets will still honor the two-free-bags promise.
There are a few exceptions. Business Select travelers, top-tier Rapid Rewards members, and customers using a Southwest co-branded credit card will still get free checked bags. A-List members keep their first bag free, too.
The airline is also introducing basic economy fares, ending its longtime Wanna Get Away tier. Open seating is on its way out, with assigned seats coming for 2026 flights and premium legroom seats joining the mix.
Despite social media dragging the change, CEO Bob Jordan told CNBC, “We have seen no book-down on that day or after that day.”
Donald Trump Grants Pardons to Todd and Julie Chrisley
Donald Trump has granted full pardons to Todd and Julie Chrisley, best known for their roles on the reality TV series Chrisley Knows Best. Trump personally informed their daughter, Savannah Chrisley, during a phone call, which was later shared online by Trump’s aide, Margo Martin.
The video, posted on X (formerly Twitter), showed Trump telling Savannah the news directly:
“President Trump calls @ItsSavannah to inform her that he will be granting full pardons to her parents, Todd and Julie Chrisley!” Martin wrote.
The Chrisleys were convicted in 2022 on multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit bank fraud and tax evasion. Todd received a 12-year sentence, and Julie was sentenced to seven years. Their case centered around allegations that the couple submitted false financial documents to secure large loans while avoiding taxes.
Since their conviction, the couple has maintained their innocence and filed appeals. Though their original sentences were reduced slightly, both were still serving time at federal correctional facilities until this pardon.
Savannah Chrisley, who has taken on a more public role since her parents’ incarceration, previously expressed her hopes for clemency. Tuesday’s news marks a significant development in a legal journey that began with a 2019 indictment.
The Chrisleys gained national attention through their USA Network reality series, which highlighted their family life and Southern lifestyle. The show ran for nine seasons and helped launch spin-offs centered around other family members.
Donald Trump has granted full pardons to Todd and Julie Chrisley, best known for their roles on the reality TV series Chrisley Knows Best. Trump personally informed their daughter, Savannah Chrisley, during a phone call, which was later shared online by Trump’s aide, Margo Martin.
The video, posted on X (formerly Twitter), showed Trump telling Savannah the news directly:
“President Trump calls @ItsSavannah to inform her that he will be granting full pardons to her parents, Todd and Julie Chrisley!” Martin wrote.
The Chrisleys were convicted in 2022 on multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit bank fraud and tax evasion. Todd received a 12-year sentence, and Julie was sentenced to seven years. Their case centered around allegations that the couple submitted false financial documents to secure large loans while avoiding taxes.
Since their conviction, the couple has maintained their innocence and filed appeals. Though their original sentences were reduced slightly, both were still serving time at federal correctional facilities until this pardon.
Savannah Chrisley, who has taken on a more public role since her parents’ incarceration, previously expressed her hopes for clemency. Tuesday’s news marks a significant development in a legal journey that began with a 2019 indictment.
The Chrisleys gained national attention through their USA Network reality series, which highlighted their family life and Southern lifestyle. The show ran for nine seasons and helped launch spin-offs centered around other family members.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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