Chris Brown is stepping back from social media just days after his steamy onstage moment with Kayla Nicole lit up the internet. While in the middle of his U.S. tour, the singer addressed the conversation swirling around him and made it clear he had enough. Before logging off Instagram, he left a sharp message to critics: “MISS ME WITH THE COLORIST RAGE BAITING.” Brown also admitted he was “sick” of the negativity filling his timeline. Chris Brown has deactivated his Instagram. pic.twitter.com/hCvwlbgA4n — Chris Brown News (@chrisbrownewss) September 17, 2025 The timing of his exit came right after clips of his Los Angeles show went viral. During the performance, he pulled Kayla Nicole on stage for his “Take You Down” set, and the two put on a show that had the crowd screaming. Fans captured the moment from every angle as Brown lifted her into the choreography, creating a scene that quickly spread across social media. Brown later uploaded his own carousel of photos, including an aerial view of the packed venue glowing with phone lights. His caption was simple, a red heart. While Brown’s reaction stirred headlines, Kayla Nicole used the opportunity to reflect on what the performance meant to her personally. In her recap, she explained that being part of the show was like fulfilling a dream for her younger self, who grew up listening to Brown. “For the mini me who saw him at one of her first concerts. For the woman who sometimes feels like she has to be a monolith instead of multi-layered. I did it for the smart girls, the cool girls, the sexy girls, the fun girls–for all of u who are all of those things at once. And I OVERLY did it for my brown girls, tthhaaankya.” Her words reminded followers that beyond the viral moment, the performance was about embracing every side of herself and honoring representation for women who see themselves in her.

Kirk Franklin’s eldest son, Kerrion Franklin, claims he suffered serious physical abuse as a child, including being “beat black and blue,” by those he refers to as “parentals.” His recent social media post includes graphic photos of scars on his back and a lengthy message describing wounds and trauma from early childhood. Kirk Franklin’s Son Speaks Out Kerrion Franklin shared on Instagram that the scars are proof of abuse dating from first grade. He wrote, “These scars all over my back are not sex stories … being beat black and blue since 1st grade.” He added that pain, not laughter, shaped many of his earliest memories. He said the adults responsible “enjoyed expressing rotten Rage in many ways as (punishment/Consequence)” and that compassion was absent. The post suggested that the abuse involved multiple people who watched over him when his parents were occupied. Kerrion said, “These scars are the only memories I have of my childhood.” In contrast, Kirk Franklin has publicly denied any physical abuse. In a 2021 statement he said, “there hasn’t been any physical abuse.” The gospel singer has apologized for a profanity-laden recording that leaked that same year, in which he appeared to threaten his son. Kerrion told interviewer Larry Reid in 2021 that he was left in the care of various people, some of whom mistreated him physically. “As a kid, right? My dad was focused on becoming his best self … so I was babysat by a lot of people … and that kind of put me in some … unfortunate, rough situations.” The Instagram post stirred controversy. Some fans expressed disbelief. Others called for professional help. Kirk Franklin, in interviews since, has emphasized his love for Kerrion and said their relationship has been a process of misunderstanding and healing. Neither Franklin nor Kerrion has released independent documentation such as medical records to public review. Experts in child welfare say social media claims can spark investigations, but legal proof is often required.

Young Thug is set to drop his highly anticipated album, “UY SCUTI,” just days from its official release. A recently leaked snippet has already ignited social media chatter. It hints at a track with strong meme potential. The clip’s infectious hook—lifted from a standout moment in his Big Bank interview—positions the song to catch viral fire. The 16-second segment prominently features Thug’s playful outburst, “whoopty doo!” The line first emerged amid a serious discussion about the legal challenges facing him and his YSL collective. What might have been a fleeting joke has been elevated into the song’s centerpiece. It is woven throughout the track rather than appearing as a brief aside. This demonstrates Thug’s knack for transforming cultural moments into musical currency. Online reactions, especially on X, have been split. Some fans long for Thug’s earlier style, lamenting what they see as gimmickry. Meanwhile, others embrace his troll-like energy. The divide is clear: one user wrote, “My goat doing gimmick tracks,” while another celebrated the absurdity, saying, “Ngl he been making the right moves so far, he a troll though [laughing emoji].” These responses underscore the fine line Thug walks between experimentation and audience expectation. Release Details for “UY SCUTI” “UY SCUTI” arrives on September 19, 2023, marking Thug’s fourth studio album. Fans anticipate a mix of his signature inventive beats—reminiscent of “So Much Fun,” “Punk,” and “JEFFERY”—alongside high-profile features. Rumored collaborators include Mariah the Scientist, Lil Gotit, and Ken Carson. Future is confirmed, reconnecting after their work on “Money On Money.” The album lands in a competitive landscape, debuting alongside Cardi B’s “AM I THE DRAMA?” and YFN Lucci’s return. In this crowded field, Young Thug appears ready to turn a single viral moment into a defining track for “UY SCUTI.” This reinforces his role as both a musical innovator and a cultural provocateur. NEW YOUNG THUG SNIPPET pic.twitter.com/Xqw9xZqS5P — Kurrco (@Kurrco) September 16, 2025

In June of last year, Ice Spice became embroiled in controversy after her former friend Baby Storme leaked private messages in which the Bronx rapper criticized Nicki Minaj. The revelations complicated what had appeared to be a flourishing partnership, following the success of “Princess Diana” and their modern rendition of Aqua’s “Barbie World.” As 2024 progressed, the ripple effects became more pronounced. In a candid Rolling Stone interview, Ice Spice confirmed the texts were authentic, admitting that she had described Minaj as “ungrateful” and “delusional” in a moment of frustration. Yet her sharpest disappointment was aimed at Storme. “The saddest part of the whole situation is that someone I trusted for years exploited my openness for personal gain. I feel used, basically,” she said. Business Hurdles, But Respect Holds Complicating matters further were behind-the-scenes business negotiations. Minaj had sought to formalize a deal with Ice Spice, but the rising star’s commitments to two record labels created an obstacle that neither side could easily overcome. Speaking with Keke Palmer on her podcast Baby, This Is Keke Palmer, Ice Spice reflected on the timing: “Despite my efforts to let our representatives manage the situation, it was simply the wrong time for a new deal.” Even amid these setbacks, Ice Spice has been careful to stress that her bond with Minaj remains intact. “It’s all love, as always. I still look up to her—she’s like family to me,” she said, echoing sentiments from her Rolling Stone interview: “I could have expressed my feelings better, but I have immense respect for Nicki and will always appreciate her contributions to my career and the culture.” For now, their relationship endures, tested but not broken. While the leaks sparked intense conversation among fans and the Barbz, both artists appear committed to maintaining mutual respect. The turbulence may have complicated their collaboration, but it has not erased the admiration that originally brought them together. Ice Spice speaks on how it felt working with Nicki Minaj twice and what she thinks went wrong after Nicki wanted to sign her to her label : Baby, this is Keke Palmer: https://t.co/LgvKZJ6aon https://t.co/tVImVyvSpR pic.twitter.com/up2aTvxaSN — Glock Topickz (@Glock_Topickz) September 16, 2025

The legal storm surrounding Sean “Diddy” Combs shows little sign of easing, with both civil and criminal cases pressing forward in a year already defined by courtroom battles. At the center of one dispute is Sara Rivers, a former member of Da Band, who has accused the Bad Boy Entertainment founder of sexual harassment and assault during the filming of Making the Band. Her lawsuit, however, has already encountered a significant hurdle. In early August, a federal judge dismissed Rivers’s claims, finding they fell outside the statute of limitations. The ruling underscored the court’s view that timing matters as much as substance: “It is essential to appreciate the beneficial roles that statutes of limitations play in our justice system. They help to uphold fairness by mitigating unexpected claims once vital evidence is no longer accessible, memories diminish, and witnesses fade from the scene.” The judge also rejected Rivers’s contention that fear of retaliation explained her delay. Broad claims of psychological harm, the court held, do not satisfy the standard required to pause statutory deadlines. Still, Rivers is pressing forward. Recent filings confirm her intent to appeal, with plans to take the case to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit—a move that could yet revive her claims in federal court. Criminal Convictions and Sentencing Alongside the civil proceedings, Diddy faces criminal charges. In July, a jury convicted him on two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution, charges that together carry a potential sentence of up to 20 years. He was acquitted of more severe counts, including racketeering and sex trafficking. A sentencing hearing is set for October 3, marking a critical phase in Diddy’s legal battles. Diddy’s attorneys are now moving to overturn the convictions. They argue prosecutors relied on an improper definition of prostitution, deviating from the 1910 language of the Mann Act. In their view, the misstep not only undermines the verdict but warrants dismissal or, at minimum, a new trial. Taken together, Rivers’s appeal and Diddy’s pending sentencing highlight the fraught intersection of celebrity and accountability. The outcomes will determine more than the fate of those involved—they will also test how the justice system confronts questions of power, influence, and responsibility in the entertainment world. Indeed, Diddy’s cases have broader implications beyond mere justice.

Harlem rapper Max B fueled speculation about his impending release with a September 15 Instagram comment declaring, “The Wave touches down November 9. The countdown begins.” The cryptic statement immediately drew attention, suggesting the artist’s long-anticipated return could be imminent nearly 15 years after his sentencing. Max B, born Charly Wingate, has been incarcerated since 2009. A New Jersey jury convicted him of conspiracy to commit armed robbery, kidnapping and felony murder. 54 days until Max B gets released from prison https://t.co/Hp19E646ID pic.twitter.com/RbFex1VbNE — Glock Topickz (@Glock_Topickz) September 16, 2025 He initially received a 75-year sentence, though his term was later reduced following multiple appeals and sentence modifications. Court records show that in 2019, his sentence was formally cut to 12 years, significantly advancing his potential release date. While the New Jersey Department of Corrections has not confirmed November 9 as his official release, Max B’s post indicates confidence that his term is nearing completion. Legal observers note that incarcerated individuals often receive projected release dates factoring in good behavior credits and program participation. Max B’s Release Date The rapper, known for pioneering the “Wave” style of melodic rap. He has remained musically active throughout his incarceration, releasing recordings and guest features facilitated through prison communication systems. Still, his physical return to the music industry has been described as a potential cultural turning point, particularly given his influence on mainstream artists including French Montana, Wiz Khalifa and Kanye West. Max B’s case has long attracted attention in both legal and cultural contexts. His original conviction stemmed from a 2006 robbery in Fort Lee, New Jersey. It ended in the death of one man. Prosecutors argued that Wingate orchestrated the crime, though he has consistently denied direct involvement. If released on the timeline he suggested, Max B would join a growing list of hip-hop figures whose legal battles have shaped their careers. For supporters, the prospect of a November 9 release represents not only the conclusion of a lengthy incarceration. It’s also the start of a new legal and cultural chapter. His declaration frames that date as more than a logistical milestone, casting it as both a legal resolution and a symbolic homecoming.

Hip-hop veteran Papoose opens up about performing at the MTV Video Music Awards for the very first time, sharing what the moment meant for his career and for the culture. In this exclusive conversation, he reflects on the journey that brought him to that iconic stage, the energy of the night, and how it felt to represent not just himself, but hip-hop as a whole. Papoose also gets personal, crediting his girlfriend, boxing champion Claressa Shields for inspiring and improving his life in ways beyond music. From discipline and focus to motivation and personal growth, he explains how their connection has helped him elevate both mentally and physically. Tap in to hear Papoose break down history in the making, share gems about resilience, and speak on the powerful influence of Claressa Shields in his world.

Delta State University is mourning the loss of a student found dead while hanging from a tree on campus Monday morning in what officials say does not appear to involve foul play. A student was lynched today at Delta University in Mississippi. Black people, please be safe. pic.twitter.com/eiomiwMVPc — Dr. Allison Wiltz (@queenie4rmnola) September 15, 2025 The student was identified as 21-year-old Demartravion Reed, also known as Trey, of Grenada, Mississippi. University Police Chief Mike Peeler said officers discovered Reed’s body shortly after 7 a.m. on September 15. He was found hanging from a tree in the central part of campus near the pickleball courts. Reed’s body was turned over to the Bolivar County Coroner’s Office, which will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause of death. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and other local agencies are working alongside campus police in the investigation. Although details remain limited, Peeler stressed that there is no ongoing danger to the campus community. The university closed briefly after the discovery but did not enter lockdown. “I just want to confirm, this is a safe campus,” Peeler said. “Delta State University is a beautiful place to be. It’s just unfortunate this loss that comes heavily to our campus.” Student Found Dead At Delta State University University President Daniel Ennis addressed reporters later Monday, offering condolences to Reed’s family and describing the incident as a devastating moment for the Delta State community. He said the timing for resuming classes is still under review but pledged that operations would restart “as soon as possible.” Reed’s death has left many on campus reeling. Students and faculty remembered him as a young man with promise, and tributes began circulating online throughout the day. Counselors were made available for students, faculty, and staff grappling with grief. The tragedy has also renewed conversations about the importance of mental health resources on college campuses. Particularly at smaller institutions where access to support can be limited. As investigators await autopsy results, Delta State faces the challenge of honoring Reed’s memory while moving forward. For many on campus, the focus now is ensuring that every student feels supported and valued during a time of collective mourning.

A federal jury acquitted Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs of the most serious charges in his high-profile trial, though he still faces sentencing on a lesser prostitution-related conviction. The verdict marked a turning point in a case that has riveted both the music industry and legal community. At the same time, the government’s lead prosecutor, Maurene Comey, is contesting her abrupt removal from the case—alleging her dismissal was unlawful and politically motivated. Comey, the daughter of former FBI Director James B. Comey, ranks among the Justice Department’s most accomplished trial lawyers. Her attorneys contend that officials targeted her because of her father’s clashes with President Donald Trump. In a filing obtained by Billboard, her team wrote, “The politically motivated termination of Ms. Comey … upends bedrock principles of our democracy and justice system.” They maintained that federal prosecutors must be able to serve without partisan pressure. Her lawyers said Comey pressed Manhattan U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton for answers. However, his response offered little clarity. According to their account, Clayton told her the order “came from Washington” without further explanation. This remark has only intensified concerns about political interference in high-profile prosecutions, including that of Diddy. The Verdict The trial, which ran more than seven weeks, produced a mixed outcome. Diddy was acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges but convicted on two counts involving the transportation of individuals for prostitution. He is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on October 3. Comey’s career includes leading roles in significant prosecutions. Among them is the 2021 conviction of Ghislaine Maxwell on sex trafficking charges, which resulted in a 20-year sentence. Her removal from the Diddy case has stirred debate over whether political dynamics are shaping the Justice Department’s handling of prominent trials. As Diddy awaits sentencing, scrutiny now shifts toward the fallout from Comey’s firing. The controversy has widened the conversation beyond one defendant’s verdict. It raises sharper questions about prosecutorial independence and the resilience of the justice system under political strain, with Diddy’s case at the forefront.

Jermaine Dupri is pushing back against the narrative that he “fumbled” his relationship with Janet Jackson. During a recent appearance on Hot 97 with Nessa, the longtime producer said the phrase simply doesn’t apply. He also offered insight into why he believes people often mischaracterize their breakup. Jermaine Dupri Challenges the “Fumble” Label When asked to respond to claims he lost out on his relationship with Jackson, Dupri paused. Then he said, “I don’t know what a fumble is. I be trying to figure out why y’all don’t say she fumbled me.” He went on, “I’m not something that you just let roll down the street.” Dupri emphasized they were together for eight years, and he said he’s tired of being cast as the one who messed up. Jackson and Dupri dated roughly from 2001 to 2009. Over the years, they publicly addressed sources of strain. Distance and work commitments played a big role. For instance, Jackson reportedly felt Dupri was often absent. In Jackson’s 2022 documentary, she said she had wanted to start a family with Dupri but pulled back after hearing rumors of his infidelity. Dupri acknowledged the rumors, admitting in past interviews that he was “reckless.” “Girls wanted to talk to me more because I was dating her,” he said, “and I was a man.” Jackson also described feeling that Dupri’s work took precedence. She said she often felt like his world was his work, and that he didn’t make enough time for her or their relationship demands. Dupri seems intent on reframing the public’s understanding of their split. He asked why people never ask whether Jackson “fumbled” him. He said the narrative is lopsided. He also pointed out how fans and social media have pushed the idea that he dropped the ball. He says that idea fails to reflect the complexities of the relationship. As of now, Dupri insists: it’s unfair to reduce their years together to a single mishap. “If the word ‘fumble’ is gonna be used,” he warned, “fans better remember it can go both ways.” Janet Jackson, in her documentary, raised concerns about Dupri’s infidelity and lack of availability affording their partnership. Dupri in turn has said he didn’t mean to hurt her but acknowledges his behaviors caused pain. Their story reflects challenges common in long-term relationships with fame, distance, and conflicting priorities.