Mariah recently stopped by Pitchfork for a game of “Over/Under,” where she shared her opinions on everything from lab-grown diamonds and Labubus to self-driving vehicles and Crocs. However, her most surprising answer came when she shared her thoughts on the Grammy Awards. Despite having 34 nominations and 5 Grammy wins, the “Always Be My Baby” singer declared that the iconic award show and its awards are, in fact, overrated. “I think the Grammys are overrated,” she tells the outlet. “But we love everybody.” Mariah Carey Says New Album Is On The Way In other news, amid a recent interview at the 10th anniversary of Apple Music with Zane Lowe and Ebro Darden, Carey made the announcement. “I’m trying not to tell too much about the new album,” Carey said. “It’s a special occasion/ Mimi’s emancipation- that’s a lyric from one of my songs. What is next? The album is coming out,” she continued. “I don’t wanna tell too much about it because I just don’t want to reveal the whole thing. It’s finished.” Carey dropped the news following the release of her newest single, “Type Dangerous.” She went on to say that the track was a “heavy record” and that it has “real weight to it.” “We got some Mariah ballads,” she said, adding that a second single will be released soon. “I’m very excited about it. It’s very summery. I like the beat as well.” Sampling Eric B. and Rakim’s classic 1986 single, “Eric B. Is President”, she performed ”Type Dangerous,” alongside Rakim at the 2025 BET Awards. “I’ve always loved ‘Eric B. Is President.’ It wasn’t something like, ‘Oh, I’m gonna flip this’- I just wouldn’t think of doing it,” she explained. “But then we were in this restaurant in Aspen, and they had different music on, and they played ‘Eric B. Is President,’ and I was like, ‘Oh my gosh! I love this song!’ We ended up in the studio a couple [of] months later and we did it.”
GloRilla Teams Up With True Religion For ‘ICONS’ Campaign
With multi-platinum singles and three Grammy nominations on her belt, GloRilla is the definition of an icon-in-the-making. So it shouldn’t be a surprise that True Religion picked the Memphis native as its newest campaign star for its ICONS collection. “True Religion stands out for its iconic designs and logos that speak for themselves, but it’s about way more than just style,” said GloRilla in a press release. “It’s about being confident and owning exactly who you are. I’m proud to partner with a brand that’s so real and inspires everyday with an authenticity that still hits.” The new collection will include a sexy twist on baby T-shirts, cropped varsity jackets, and cinched vests. As expected, the urban lifestyle brand known for its superior denim quality taps into the latest trends, offering both baggy and flared jeans. Prices typically range from $40 on the low end to over $200 on the high end. Popular Twitch streamer, Duke Dennis, was also tapped as the brand’s new campaign star alongside Glo. Before those two, the brand worked with two other female rap starlets: Megan Thee Stallion and Sexyy Red. View this post on Instagram A post shared by True Religion (@truereligion) On a more sour note, a Cleveland concert that was expected to feature GloRilla, Moneybagg Yo, and Skilla Baby has turned into the center of a major legal battle. Esmail Entertainment has filed a lawsuit against Shaw Management Enterprises, seeking $2.5 million in damages. The company claims Shaw submitted forged contracts tied to the event, which led to significant financial loss. According to AllHipHop, problems began almost immediately after tickets went on sale. Just two days after the launch, Shaw Management allegedly instructed Esmail to stop all promotion for the show. No explanation was provided, which raised concerns. Esmail then contacted GloRilla’s team and reportedly learned she had never agreed to perform. They say that contract negotiations were still ongoing when Shaw sent over what they now believe were falsified documents.
Nipsey Hussle’s Legacy Memorialized With New L.A. Metro Campaign
To help celebrate what would’ve been Nipsey Hussle’s 40th birthday (Aug.15), the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority launched a new campaign, aiming to honor the late rapper’s legacy. ABC7 Los Angeles reports along with temporarily renaming Hyde Park Station to “Nipsey Hussle Station,” LA Metro will also offer two limited edition TAP cards featuring the rapper. The effort is part of a new initiative — Metro x Culture — which aims to “connect the agency with the heart of Los Angeles’ vibrant cultural landscape by collaborating with prolific local artists, musicians, community heroes and influential brands.” “Hussle’s legacy goes far beyond music. He was a visionary who understood the power of community, connection, and opportunity. At Metro, we share his belief that public transportation is more than just a way to get around; it’s a vital lifeline that can unite neighborhoods, open doors, and uplift lives,” Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins said in a statement. Two limited-edition Nipsey Hussle TAP cards will drop on August 15, Nipsey Hussle Day. The TAP cards are part of the Metro x Culture series celebrating Angelenos who’ve shaped LA culture, especially those whose journeys began on Metro buses and trains. pic.twitter.com/l54v84ngZj — Metro Los Angeles (@metrolosangeles) August 8, 2025 In a statement from Nipsey Hussle’s family, they said they were “proud to be partnering with Metro for the renaming of the station in honor of Nipsey for his 40th birthday. Access to Metro played a vital role in providing transportation from South Central to Watts to pursue his early musical aspirations.” The statement continues, “Metro helped bridge the gap, not just between neighborhoods, but between his vision and his future. Metro provides access and opportunity to so many people who, without this resource, wouldn’t be able to pursue their passions. The family hopes insight to Hussle’s early years utilizing the Metro will bring light to Hussle’s favorite quote, The highest human act is to inspire.” On March 31, 2019, Nipsey Hussle was shot and killed in front of his Marathon Clothing store. He was only 33 years old at the time of his death. Since then, the alleged shooter Eric Holder was found guilty and is currently serving a sentence of 60 years to Life.
SZA Named Artistic Director Of Vans
For the first time in the history Vans, the brand has named an artistic director and its SZA! On Thursday (August 14), Vans made the announcement about SZA’s brand new role with company. “SZA is a revolutionary artist shaping the emotional tone of a generation. Through her genre-defying sound, she brings authenticity to the forefront, creating space for both softness and powerful expression,” the company’s statement read. “She challenges fashion norms and cultural expectations that empower youth to own their story. In her, we see the essence of Off the Wall, an artist who leads with creative intention and self-acceptance, while encouraging others to do the same,” the statement continued View this post on Instagram A post shared by SZA (@sza) “In Vans, I feel free!” says SZA. “I’ve been wearing Knu Skools and other styles for years, they’ve always had an ethos I connect with. As Artistic Director, my mission is to show that joy, community, creativity, and fashion are all still intersectional.” “That humanity, culture, and connection are still the access points. I’ve learned that bravery and curiosity are the cures for uncertainty, it’s a lifestyle and Vans champions that spirit,” SZA continued. “They stand where I stand, and I’m honored to invite a whole bunch of people to stand Off the Wall with us. “ SZA also shared the news of her new role to all of her followers on Instagram. “Clocking in for Side quest 367889654591.. IM THE NEW ARTISTIC DIRECTOR AT @vans YALL… we finna have a f**king ball,” her post read. During recent Vogue interview, SZA shared her love of Vans. “If you think about Vans and me, it makes so much sense,” SZA expalined “I’ve always been about comfort and self-expression. I love feeling stable, sturdy—and also cute as f**k.” “Skate culture is so paramount [to Vans], but the ethos of skate culture is what I think is beautiful,” she added. “There is a lot of perseverance, trying and failing—a community that loves to take risks.”
Beyoncé Ranked The Sixth ‘Top Producer of the 21st Century’
Beyoncé is not only a skilled vocalist and performer, but she’s also ranked as the sixth top producer of the 21st Century, says Billboard. Earlier this week, the outlet released its “Top Producers of the 21st Century on the Hot 100” list. According to the publication,” before Beyoncé became a solo juggernaut, she was already helping shape the Destiny’s Child sound away from the mic.” Billboard reports that out of the 25 producers “who can claim credit for helping shape the sound of hit music since the turn of the century,” Queen Bey found herself among the top 10, with the likes of Jack Antonoff and Dr. Luke. Beyoncé earned her first No.1 as a producer on Destiny’s Child’s “Independent Woman Part I” in 2000. A year later, the group released “Bootylicious,” which gave the singer her second No.1 Hit, with her credited as a producer. “When she went solo, she continued to maintain control over the texture of her music, coproducing six more of her No. 1s: “Crazy in Love,” featuring Jay-Z; “Baby Boy,” featuring Sean Paul (both in 2003); “Check On It,” featuring Slim Thug (2006); “Irreplaceable” (2006-07), “Break My Soul” (2022); and “Texas Hold ‘Em” (2024),” the outlet wrote. LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 01: (FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY) Beyoncé accepts the Innovator Award onstage during the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards at Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California on April 01, 2024. Broadcasted live on FOX. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for iHeartRadio) “Her work behind the board proves that she’s not just the face of her music but also a creative force behind the whole enterprise,” Billboard continued. The criteria had been based on the “top 300-plus producers who led the Hot 100 from charts dated Jan. 1, 2000, through Dec. 28, 2024.” To help avoid any ties, the outlet reports it “ranked which producers had the most Hot 100 top 10s in the tracking period, followed by the most overall entries on the chart.” Beyoncé wasn’t the only industry heavyweight to crack the list. Atlanta native and So So Def founder Jermaine Dupri landed at No.9. Timbaland followed right behind at No.10; however Kanye West dipped slightly below the iconic producer, landing at No.14. Below Ye sits The Weeknd at No.19 with Mariah Carey trailing behind at No.15. Boi-1da, the sound behind Rihanna’s smash hit, “Work,” which features Drake, earned a spot at No. 23. Black Eyed Peas frontman will.i.am ran closely behind at No.24.
The Weeknd Eclipses Bruno Mars, Beyoncé For Highest Ranking R&B Tour
The Weeknd’s native’s After Hours Til Dawn Tour has grossed over $600,000,000 and sold nearly five million tickets, according to Billboard. The outlet reports the singer-songwriter’s tour broke a Boxscore record, earning the title of “the biggest R&B tour in history.” Since kicking off nearly three years ago in July 2022, the After Hours Til Dawn tour has raked in $635.5 million. The outlet reports that this is the “ninth tour to hit this benchmark, and the only one by an R&B artist or a Black artist.” With that, now The “Star Boy” singer’s tour has eclipsed Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour, which grossed $579.8 million, “over 56 shows in 2023.” He’s also surpassed Bruno Mars’ 3.6 million on his 2017-18’s 24K Magic World Tour. DETROIT, MICHIGAN – MAY 24: The Weeknd performs onstage during After Hours Til Dawn Stadium Tour at Ford Field on May 24, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images) Just last week, The Weeknd reached another record-breaking milestone by setting the record for most performances by a Canadian artist at one of Toronto’s biggest stadiums — the Rogers Centre, which also houses the Toronto Blue Jays. According to Billboard Canada, the singer performed four shows on his After Hours Til Dawn Tour at the Rogers Centre, which began on Thursday, August 7. The outlet also reported that he set the record for “most shows at the venue by a male solo artist on the same tour.” This trek would count as The Weeknd’s seventh concert tour. The stadium tour was in support of his fourth, fifth, and sixth studio albums: After Hours (2020), Dawn FM (2022), and Hurry Up Tomorrow (2025). This tour serves as a victory lap for the “Timeless” singer and marks the end of his Weeknd era. The good news doesn’t end there. Last month, The Weeknd was awarded the ultimate honor from his hometown of Toronto by receiving the Key to the City and a citywide proclamation of “The Weeknd Weekend” from July 26-27.
Busta Rhymes Set To Recieve ‘Hip Hop Icon’ Award From Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce
Busta Rhymes’ eccentric style and fiery bars have made him an icon with a career that spans over four decades. According to Variety, the executive board of the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce is helping preserve his legacy by presenting him with the “Hip Hop Icon Award.” The outlet reports that the board is hosting the presentation as a final event to close out Harlem Week, which is a “series of free, local community events for residents and NYC residents.” The ceremony will take place at St. Nicholas Park on Sunday (Aug.17). Just last month, Busta was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He was honored with a star in the Recording category. Some of his guest speakers for the ceremony included Chris Rock, LL Cool J, Chuck D., and Big Boy. “The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce will be adding Busta Rhymes, one of Hip-Hop’s most enduring and electrifying voices, as a new member of Hollywood’s iconic sidewalk, “ said Ana Martinez, Producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, in a press release around that time. “His talent and influence are undeniable. His star on the Walk of Fame will stand as a testament to his lasting impact on hip-hop music and how important it is to American culture.” On a more sour note, Busta Rhymes is being sued by his former assistant, Dashiel Gables, who claims the rapper assaulted him and failed to pay him properly during his time of employment. Gables is expected to detail the accusations during a press conference in Brooklyn’s Columbus Park on Thursday, where he’ll allege emotional harm, wage theft, and physical abuse. The situation stems from an altercation earlier this year. Back in January, police questioned Busta after a reported dispute between the two men, though no charges were filed at the time.
Doja Cat Reveals Album Release Date For ‘Vie’
On Friday (July 15), Doja Cat announced that her forthcoming fifth studio album, Vie, is coming this September. The singer-rapper hopped on Instagram to share the exciting announcement with fans, writing, “Je sais que tu es ma vie Vie out 9/26.” The French phrase translates to “I know you are my life.” Judging by the video and caption Doja posted, this upcoming project is heavily inspired by Parisian culture. The “Say So” singer has been teasing the album since last October. Back in March, she shared snippets of a few tracks that will appear on the album, including one named “Lipstain.” Similarly, to her past work, the tracks seem to pull inspiration from a variety of genres. In a recent interview with V magazine, Doja Cat revealed that Vie would be a “pop-driven project.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Doja Cat (@dojacat) “I know that I can make pop music, and pop is just that it’s popular. It starts to become a bit of a thing that’s viewed as a sport by people who are just bystanders to it, who enjoy it, but maybe also don’t respect it or what it is, which is just music … They see it as if this is some kind of football for girls and gays,” she told the outlet. Doja Cat’s last project was 2023’s Scarlet, which worked as her departure from pop music; she aimed to prove that she was not just a pop star, but a skilled rapper. Prior to releasing the project, she said in an interview that she had done “a lot of pink and soft things, a lot of pop and glittery sounds,” but with Scarlet, she wanted a “more masculine direction.” Upon its release, Scarlet spawned two hit singles, “Paint The Town Red” and “Agora Hills.” The project peaked at number four on the US Billboard 200—becoming Doja Cat’s third top-ten entry on the chart.
Black Ink Crew’s Ceaser Reveals How He Learned He Was Having A Stroke
Black Ink Crew star Ceaser Emanuel opens up about he learned he was having a stroke. In a candid conversation with Carlos King, Ceaser recalls the exact moment he knew he was experiencing a stroke. He described the sensation bluntly, saying it “felt like a bad headache.” Ceasar shared a message via his Instagram thanking God for his health. “God, I can’t thank you enough for bringing me this far in LIFE.Thank you for blessing me with life, good health, happiness and peace of mind. I’ll forever be grateful.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Jasmine Brand (@the.jasmine.brand)
A$AP Rocky Says He ‘Grew Up’ On Spike Lee, Shares Favorite Films
The press tour for Spike Lee’s Highest 2 Lowest is in full swing; most recently, the director and film star, A$AP Rocky, stopped by the Track Star music show. When asked about the research he put into the role, Rocky said that he was already well-equipped because he’d been an avid fan of the director in his youth. According to the rapper, he “grew up” on Spike Lee. “I didn’t have to do research,” the rapper-actor said. Shortly after that, the rapper proceeded to share a few of his favorite films from the Brooklyn native. With over four decades of work to pick from, you think the “Praise The Lord” rapper might have trouble deciding; however, for Rocky, it was simple. “It’s between Mo’ Better Blues, Malcom X, He Got Game, Inside Man, [and] Crooklyn…” The rapper also acknowledged how much Red Hook Summer taught him to “use different mediums at a time when everyone wanted these big movie production cameras…” Lee had shot the 2012 film with a small digital camera. Spike Lee and A$AP Rocky have become quite chummy over the past few months as the rollout for Lee’s Highest 2 Lowest continues. During a recent appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Lee lauded Rocky’s performance in the film. “Yeah, don’t sleep on A$AP,” Lee said. “In this film, Denzel and A$AP go toe to toe.” “What’s interesting is, even before I got involved with this film, I always thought that A$AP looked like he could be Denzel’s son. There’s a big resemblance. So when you see it on the screen, it adds an element of father and son. Don’t sleep on A$AP. Don’t sleep on A$AP,” he added. Lee also said that Rocky was not overwhelmed by Washington’s aura like he had seen with other actors. “I’ve done five films with Denzel, and when he’s in a scene with somebody, they just get overwhelmed. He’s one of the world’s greatest living actors. But A$AP wasn’t having that,” Lee explained. “Toe to toe. I mean, they were going at it.”