Baton Rouge rapper NBA Ben10 appreciates his fans as he looks ahead after a year marked by violence, recovery, and uncertainty. Real name Ben Anthony Fields, he shared an encouraging update this week, telling fans he hopes to walk again by Christmas after suffering life-altering injuries in a Houston shooting earlier this year. In a video posted to social media on June 17, the NBA Youngboy affiliate addressed supporters who have followed his recovery journey over the past several months. “To all the ones who prayed for me, thank you for the good prayers. I’m still in this joint,” Ben10 said from what appeared to be a rehabilitation facility. “We are shooting for Christmas for me to be up whipping your a*s again. Gang.” NBA Ben10 thanks supporters for praying for him through his recovery & says he aims to be on his feet by Christmas pic.twitter.com/WKRBF8rjLe — AkzWhoMatter (@akzwhomatter) June 18, 2026 The message offered a rare glimpse into the rapper’s mindset following two separate shootings in less than six weeks. The first incident occurred on April 8 at Confessions Restaurant and Lounge in Houston, Texas. Authorities said the shooting stemmed from an attempted robbery involving Detroit rapper Allstar JR, who was also at the venue. Rapper NBA Ben10 Sends “Thank You” To His Supportive Fans After Being Shot In Houston & Baton Rouge Investigators allege that JR obtained a firearm during the confrontation and fired multiple shots. At least two people were struck by gunfire, including Ben10. The full extent of his injuries became public through court filings in Harris County. Prosecutors alleged that the Baton Rouge artist suffered a spinal injury that resulted in “irreversible paralysis of the lower extremities.” News of the shooting quickly spread throughout hip-hop circles, prompting an outpouring of support from fans and artists connected to the Never Broke Again camp. Just weeks later, Ben10 was reportedly wounded again during an altercation in Baton Rouge. Local outlet WBRZ reported that three people suffered injuries in the incident. Authorities have released few details about the case. Despite the setbacks, NBA Ben10’s latest update reflects determination rather than defeat. For now, his focus remains on rehabilitation, recovery, and reaching a goal that once seemed distant: taking his first steps again by Christmas.

Brooklyn drill rapper Sleepy Hallow, whose real name is Tegan Chambers, has been released from prison after serving approximately eight months of a one-year sentence imposed in connection with a sprawling New York gang conspiracy case. The rapper announced his release Thursday in an Instagram post featuring photographs of himself posing alongside luxury vehicles and music plaques. “I’m back, now go pick a side n’ stay there,” Chambers wrote. View this post on Instagram Chambers was among 32 defendants named in a 140-count indictment unsealed by New York prosecutors in May 2023. Authorities alleged that members and associates of a Brooklyn street gang participated in a range of criminal activities, leading to charges that included conspiracy and violent offenses against multiple defendants. In October 2025, Chambers pleaded guilty to fourth-degree conspiracy and was sentenced to one year in prison. Court records show the plea resolved his role in the prosecution’s broader gang conspiracy case. Brooklyn Rap Star Sleepy Hallow Released After 8 Months, Prepares “First Day Out” Track The case also ensnared fellow Brooklyn drill artist Michael Williams, known as Sheff G. Williams pleaded guilty to second-degree attempted murder and second- and fourth-degree conspiracy charges. He received a five-year prison sentence in October 2025. Chambers’ release marks the latest development in a prosecution that drew significant attention because of the involvement of prominent figures in New York’s drill music scene. The rapper indicated he intends to quickly return to his music career. In addition to announcing his release, Sleepy Hallow said he’s filming the “First Day Out” music video. He invited fans to the video shoot in New York City. “First Day Out” tracks are commonly associated with songs released by artists following incarceration. The planned release suggests Sleepy Hallow is seeking to capitalize on renewed public attention following his prison term. Sleep Hallow is set to perform at Hot 97’s Summer Jam on July 24.

News of hip hop superproducer Tay Keith’s passing on Thursday, June 18, rocked the culture to its core. He was 29. On Friday, his estate released an official statement on his behalf while he is mourned by fans and collaborators across the world. While it was reported as “no foul play” by Metro Nashville PD, Tay Keith, real name BryTavious Chambers, was found in his apartment during a wellness check on Thursday afternoon. The family’s official statement announced his death, remembering the Grammy-nominated hitmaker as a transformative force in music whose influence extended far beyond the recording studio. “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of BryTavious ‘Tay Keith’ Chambers,” the family said. Tay Keith’s estate issued a statement following his passing yesterday. “We respectfully ask for privacy and continued prayers for his family and loved ones during this difficult time.” Rest in peace Tay Keith pic.twitter.com/sBPcmobpwB — RapTV (@Rap) June 19, 2026 Tay Keith rose from Memphis to become one of the most recognizable producers in modern hip-hop. He crafted chart-topping records and helped shape the sound of a generation. Over the course of his career, he worked with some of the industry’s biggest artists. He became known for hard-hitting production that helped define contemporary rap music. The estate described him as “a visionary producer, songwriter, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and cultural force. His work helped define the sound of a generation.” Tay Keith’s Family Releases Official Statement On Hip-Hop Producer’s Passing The family noted that his impact extended beyond music. His company, Drumatized, was dedicated to creating opportunities for emerging songwriters, producers, and artists. Tay Keith also remained closely connected to his alma mater, Middle Tennessee State University. He received recognition as an honorary professor after graduation. According to the statement, Tay Keith was a mentor and advocate for young creatives. He supported mental health awareness and cancer-related causes in honor of his late mother. While fans around the world knew him as Tay Keith, the family emphasized the personal side of the producer’s legacy. “Above all, BryTavious was a beloved son, brother, uncle, family member, and friend,” the statement said. “While the world knew him as Tay Keith, his family knew him as BryTavious — a source of love, strength, laughter, and guidance.” The family said it takes comfort in knowing that “his legacy will live on through the music he created. Along with the opportunities he provided, and the lives he touched.” Memorial arrangements have not yet been announced. The family requested privacy and continued prayers as loved ones mourn his loss.

Brooklyn rapper Bobby Shmurda met his father, Gervase Johnson, with open arms after serving a 30-year prison sentence. Social media made the reunion go viral on Thursday. The emotional father-son moment exploded across social media Friday after MyMixtapez shared a split-screen video on X showing the pair together for the first time since Shmurda was an infant. The clip quickly racked up millions of views as fans celebrated the long-awaited reunion. Bobby Shmurda’s father has been released from prison after serving over 30 years He was arrested when Bobby was only two months old, and Bobby is now 31 years old. pic.twitter.com/tuZGMkO0qE — My Mixtapez (@mymixtapez) June 19, 2026 Johnson entered prison when Shmurda, whose legal name is Ackquille Pollard, was just two months old. Now 31, the rapper could be seen smiling, hugging and spending time with his father in scenes that struck a chord with fans. The video’s caption highlighted the extraordinary timeline: a father incarcerated for most of his son’s life finally returning home. Public records show Johnson was convicted in Miami-Dade County, Florida, in the mid-1990s on charges that included attempted first-degree murder. Various reports have described his sentence differently, with some citing life imprisonment and others reporting a term exceeding 100 years. Brooklyn Rapper Bobby Shmurda & His Father, Gervase Johnson, Reunite For First Time in 30 Years Upon Prison Release Johnson ultimately spent more than 30 years in custody before securing his freedom in June 2026. Details surrounding his release remain unclear. Public records have not yet indicated whether Johnson completed his sentence, received parole or obtained relief through another legal avenue. A 2023 online campaign known as “Free Gervy” argued that Johnson had been wrongfully convicted, though no court overturned the conviction. For Shmurda, the reunion carries added weight. The rapper famously served his own prison sentence after pleading guilty to conspiracy and weapons-related charges in 2016. He was released in 2021 after serving roughly six years. https://youtu.be/ekBz3sp-k?si=DH6tnRNdTorPSPEO Throughout his music career, Shmurda frequently referenced his father’s absence. Fans have long pointed to lyrics from his breakout hit “Hot N***a” as a reflection of that experience. Now, after decades of separation, father and son are finally sharing the same moment. For many fans, the viral video represents more than a family reunion. It is a story of resilience, redemption and a second chance at time that once seemed lost forever.

Hip-hop producer Swizz Beatz and several music publishers have sued a North Carolina entertainment venue in federal court, alleging it publicly performed copyrighted songs, including the late DMX’s hit “Party Up (Up in Here),” without obtaining the licenses required under federal copyright law. The complaint, filed Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, accuses BoatYard Lake Norman and its owner, Chris Boukedes, of repeatedly playing protected musical works despite years of outreach and licensing offers from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, known as ASCAP. At the center of the dispute is “Party Up (Up in Here),” the chart-topping DMX single co-written by Swizz Beatz. The lawsuit alleges the venue publicly performed the song and other copyrighted works without authorization, depriving songwriters, composers and music publishers of performance royalties. According to the complaint, ASCAP representatives attempted to secure compliance through telephone calls, emails and mailed correspondence. The organization contends those efforts were unsuccessful. Swizz Beatz Goes After North Carolina Nightclub For The Illegal Use Of DMX’s Hit “Party Up” In Federal Court “ASCAP has contacted Defendants by telephone, by mail, and by e-mail,” the complaint states. Despite those communications, the defendants allegedly “refused all of ASCAP’s license offers for Boatyard” while continuing to publicly perform copyrighted compositions within ASCAP’s repertory. The action also includes claims involving “Jump Around,” “Party All the Time” and “Shut Up and Dance,” with several publishing companies joining as plaintiffs. Universal Music Corp. is among the entities asserting rights connected to “Party Up (Up in Here).” The plaintiffs seek up to $30,000 in statutory damages. Along with injunctive relief and other remedies available under the Copyright Act. The lawsuit is one of several copyright enforcement actions filed nationwide this week by ASCAP-affiliated songwriters and publishers. In a statement, ASCAP Executive Vice President of Licensing Stephanie Ruyle said the venues chose not to pay. “Each of the establishments sued today has chosen to infringe upon the hard work of songwriters instead of licensing the music they play, despite repeated notifications and opportunities to do so.”

Country music star Jelly Roll’s estranged wife, Bunnie XO, whose real name is Alisa Carter, has shared on her Dumb Blonde Podcast that the couple will continue IVF journey amid divorce announcement this week. TMZ broke the news on Thursday. During a candid episode of her Dumb Blonde Podcast, Bunnie XO opened up for the first time about the couple’s separation, revealing that she and Jelly Roll remain committed to growing their family through IVF despite deciding to end their nearly decade-long marriage. The conversation offered a rare glimpse into the private struggles that unfolded behind one of country music’s most visible relationships. While fans watched Jelly Roll’s rise from Nashville underdog to arena headliner, the couple was quietly navigating an emotionally draining fertility journey. Bunnie described a series of heartbreaking setbacks during the in vitro fertilization process, including multiple embryo losses. The experience, she said, took a profound emotional toll on both of them and placed additional pressure on their relationship. Country Music Star Jelly Roll’s Bunnie XO Reveals Plans To Have IVF Baby Will Continue Despite Divorce Rather than dwelling on the divorce, Bunnie framed the discussion around resilience and the future. She acknowledged that continuing to pursue parenthood after ending a marriage may seem unconventional. Still, she emphasized that both she and Jelly Roll support the decision and remain united in their goal of welcoming a child. The revelation marks Bunnie’s first public comments since reports surfaced that Jelly Roll filed for divorce in Tennessee in May. Although neither has spoken extensively about the breakup, her remarks suggest the pair are working to redefine their relationship rather than sever it entirely. For years, the couple built a public image rooted in loyalty, honesty, and second chances. Their story resonated with fans who embraced Jelly Roll’s transformation from troubled outsider to one of country music’s biggest stars. Through that journey, Bunnie remained a constant presence, often documenting their life together across social media and her podcast platform. Now, the next chapter looks different. Yet the foundation appears unchanged. While their marriage may be ending, their commitment to family remains intact. As Bunnie focuses on healing, rebuilding, and continuing her path toward motherhood, she made one thing clear: the dream she and Jelly Roll shared has not disappeared. It has simply taken a new form.

The sudden death of Grammy-nominated producer Tay Keith has sent shockwaves through hip-hop, prompting an outpouring of grief and questions about what happened to one of rap’s most influential hitmakers. In a statement released Thursday, the Metro Nashville PD provided the first official details surrounding the death of the Memphis native, born Brytavious Chambers. “No foul play is suspected in the death of Brytavious Chambers, 29, also known as Grammy nominated record producer Tay Keith,” the department said in a post on X. No foul play is suspected in the death of Brytavious Chambers, 29, also known as Grammy nominated record producer Tay Keith. He was found dead in his Martin St apt this afternoon by officers performing a welfare check. His death is unclassified pending autopsy results. — Metro Nashville PD (@MNPDNashville) June 18, 2026 For investigators, that distinction carries weight. The statement indicates officers found no immediate evidence suggesting homicide, assault, or another criminal act contributed to Chambers’ death. Still, authorities stopped short of identifying a cause. Police said Chambers was discovered inside his Martin Street apartment after officers conducted a welfare check. Such checks typically occur when loved ones, colleagues, or associates express concern for someone’s safety after losing contact with them. Hip-Hop Super producer Tay Keith’s Death Ruled “No Foul Play” By Metro Nashville PD The discovery stunned a music community. Tay Keith rose from Memphis beatmaker to one of hip-hop’s defining producers. His thunderous production style helped soundtrack an era of rap, earning credits alongside artists including Drake, Travis Scott and more. By specifically identifying Chambers as “also known as Grammy nominated record producer Tay Keith,” Nashville police acknowledged the producer’s cultural significance. The department also emphasized that the investigation remains incomplete. “His death is unclassified pending autopsy results,” police stated. That designation means medical examiners have not yet determined either the official cause or manner of death. An autopsy will help establish whether the death resulted from natural causes, an accident, or another circumstance. For now, authorities are urging patience as the investigation continues. The statement serves as both confirmation of Chambers’ death and a reminder that key medical findings remain outstanding. Until those results are finalized, questions surrounding the death of one of hip-hop’s most celebrated producers will remain unanswered.

Fat Joe and Remy Ma have long been closely associated with the Knicks as public supporters. They often appear at key moments throughout the team’s recent seasons. When the franchise finally secured its first championship since 1973, their reaction mirrored a city that had waited across generations for this outcome. By the time the parade moved through Manhattan, the streets had already filled in layers. Fans gathered early and stayed put as floats slowly made their way downtown. The celebration unfolded less like a single event. Instead, it felt more like a city-wide release of something long held in. Among the most visible scenes of the day came from the hip-hop float. Fat Joe and Remy Ma appeared and performed “Lean Back” as the procession passed through dense crowds. The moment was met with a loud, sustained response. It was the kind that blurs the line between performance and shared memory. Set against confetti and constant movement, it felt anchored in New York’s habit of folding music directly into its public celebrations. For those watching, it registered as both entertainment and recognition of the city’s cultural rhythm. View this post on Instagram Euphoria Gives Way to Reflection as Knicks Eye Title Defense Across the boroughs, the tone remained buoyant but slightly disbelieving. It was as though the scale of the victory was still being absorbed in real time. Longstanding narratives around the Knicks—often shaped by disappointment—were briefly set aside. In their place, something more immediate took over. Even amid the noise, there was an awareness that moments like this do not arrive often. The 2026 championship, in that sense, already felt like a fixed point in the franchise’s history. Attention will eventually shift toward what comes next, as the Knicks prepare to begin their title defense. The NBA has not seen a repeat champion since the 2017–2018 season. This statistic reflects how quickly conditions change from year to year. Whether New York can extend this success is uncertain. Still, for now the focus remains firmly on the aftermath of a long-awaited win.

Tay Keith, the Grammy-nominated producer whose tag became a signal flare for a generation of rap records, has died at 29. Authorities in Nashville confirmed he was found in his apartment during a welfare check on Thursday. Meanwhile, no foul play is suspected, and a cause of death is still unconfirmed, according to law enforcement statements reported by multiple outlets. For nearly a decade, Brytavious “Tay Keith” Chambers helped shape the sound of modern hip-hop with a minimal, percussion-driven style that carried both Memphis grit and stadium-sized bounce. He broke out with BlocBoy JB’s “Look Alive” featuring Drake. Then, he worked on Drake’s “Nonstop” and Travis Scott’s “Sicko Mode.” Keith didn’t just land hits; he helped define the architecture of chart-topping rap in the streaming era. “Sicko Mode” would go on to earn him a Grammy nomination. Furthermore, it became one of the most recognizable records of the decade. His reach extended far beyond the biggest names in rap. Keith produced for Beyoncé on her Grammy-winning “Homecoming” project. He also contributed to records by Eminem, Future, Lil Baby, Moneybagg Yo, and Sexyy Red, among many others. By his early twenties, his production tag—“Tay Keith, fuck these n****s up!”—had become shorthand for cultural momentum. It was the moment a track shifted from anticipation to impact. View this post on Instagram Keith made Memphis mainstream with skeletal drums that defined an era What made his run distinct wasn’t just volume, but timing. Keith emerged as hip-hop’s regional boundaries were dissolving. Therefore, he carried Memphis into the center of the mainstream without sanding off its edges. His drums were sharp, often skeletal, but always built for scale. News of his passing has prompted an immediate outpouring from collaborators and peers across the industry. This reflects how deeply his sound had become embedded in the last decade of popular music. However the industry ultimately marks his cause of death, the legacy he leaves is already fixed in the record. He was a producer who, before 30, helped soundtrack an era and made the world recognize it in the first two seconds of a beat drop.

Nearly four years have passed since Takeoff was killed in a shooting that stunned hip-hop and reshaped conversations around Migos. The loss also altered the personal and creative bond between Quavo and Offset, who had built their careers alongside him. Since then his name has remained present through tributes, memories, and periodic reminders of his influence on modern rap. Even as time has passed, discussions about his role in Migos continue to frame how the group is remembered. On June 18, what would have been his 32nd birthday prompted renewed attention across social media and among collaborators. Quavo marked the date on Instagram, posting a message that quickly circulated among fans, reflecting on Takeoff’s legacy. Quavo wrote: “Happy Rocket Day 2 Tha Original Drank God. Til infinity your art flow and DRIP will LIVE 4Eva MY BROTHA!!! Blessings.” The post added another layer to ongoing public remembrance that resurfaces each year around the date. View this post on Instagram Questions about what Takeoff might have created had he lived continue to circulate among fans and peers. Speculation about a full Migos reunion has also lingered, especially as former tensions between members have softened at times. Recent sightings of Quavo and Offset in a studio have renewed discussion about possible collaboration in the future. Still, there has been no confirmation of any official project under the Migos name. For many listeners the idea remains tentative, shaped more by hope than by concrete plans. Even so, Takeoff’s absence continues to shape how the group’s history is discussed in public spaces and among longtime fans. The anniversary date tends to bring renewed reflection across social media timelines each year. Those moments often lead back to memories of his role in shaping Migos. As interest persists, fans continue revisiting the group’s catalog with steady emotional weight attached.