Pensacola rapper Jovon “Playa Pat” Booker was convicted by a federal jury of two firearm offenses tied to an alleged drug trafficking operation that prosecutors said moved hundreds of kilograms of marijuana into Florida. The verdict adds to Booker’s federal convictions after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, conspiracy to commit money laundering and five money laundering counts involving high-end jewelry. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida said the jury found Booker guilty of discharging a handgun during a drug trafficking crime. Jurors also convicted him of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. “This case exemplified the unified commitment of our state and federal law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe,” U.S. Attorney John Heekin said. Heekin called Booker a “violent, drug peddling thug” and said the prosecution had ended what he described as the rapper’s “reign of terror.” Pensacola Rapper Jovon “Playa Pat” Booker Found Guilty In Multi-Million Drug Trafficking Operation According to evidence presented at trial, Booker transported hundreds of kilograms of marijuana from Seattle to Pensacola between 2020 and 2025. Prosecutors alleged he used proceeds from the drug operation to purchase a Lamborghini Urus and diamond-encrusted jewelry. The government also presented evidence concerning a May 12, 2024, shooting at Paparazzi Bistro & Lounge in Pensacola. Prosecutors alleged Booker shot co-conspirator Gustavus Nairn during a dispute over an outstanding drug debt. Booker, 33, is scheduled to be sentenced Nov. 5. His firearm convictions carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years and expose him to a potential life sentence. The federal case does not resolve separate criminal proceedings against Booker in Escambia County. He faces an attempted first-degree premeditated murder charge stemming from the Paparazzi shooting. State prosecutors also charged Booker with aggravated battery causing great bodily harm by firearm, shooting inside a building, carrying a concealed weapon in a prohibited location and witness tampering. Booker’s attorneys said in June they were ready for trial. His federal custody, however, prevented authorities from transporting him to Escambia County. His next state court hearing is scheduled for Sept. 2. The state charges remain pending as Booker awaits federal sentencing.

ASAP Rocky offered a candid and humorous take on the long-debated sexuality of his close friend and frequent collaborator Tyler, the Creator during a recent sit-down interview. Appearing on “The Jason Lee Show,” the “Fashion Killa” artist responded to questions about whether Tyler is truly gay or simply performing a elaborate, yearslong “troll” on the public. Without hesitation, Rocky weighed in on his friend’s identity, suggesting the evidence is clear despite Tyler’s penchant for humor. “My brother is Tyler, the Creator, Jason,” Rocky told host Jason Lee after the interviewer praised Rocky for his confidence and willingness to associate with the LGBTQ+ community. When Lee pushed for a definitive answer on whether Tyler is “trolling,” Rocky replied, “That n***a gay, man.” The conversation highlighted the unique bond between the two hip-hop stars, who have frequently appeared in videos and on tracks together. Rocky playfully noted that while he has not personally witnessed anything, Tyler’s public persona and lyrics speak for themselves. “Look, it walk like a duck, quack like a duck,” Rocky said, though he added that the rapper “plays gay all day.” View this post on Instagram The “Igor” creator has kept fans guessing about his orientation for over a decade. In a 2015 interview with Rolling Stone, Tyler claimed he was “gay as fuck” and jokingly expressed a romantic interest in 1990s-era Leonardo DiCaprio. However, his lyrics became increasingly pointed in later years. On the 2017 Grammy-nominated album “Flower Boy,” Tyler famously rapped about “kissing white boys since 2004.” He followed this with lines on “Call Me If You Get Lost” where he apologized to “the guys I had to hide” and “the girls I had to lie to.” Most recently, on his “Chromakopia” track “Balloon,” he rapped, “I don’t even like girls, bitch, I’m way up too.” During the interview, Lee joked about the possibility of dating Tyler himself, suggesting the pairing would “burn the internet down.” Rocky laughed off the suggestion, jokingly asking for the comment to be removed in post-production. “I don’t even want to picture y’all two,” Rocky said. “We gonna edit that… in the edit suite.” Tyler, the Creator since his early days with the Odd Future collective. Tyler has never released a formal “coming out” statement.

Federal prosecutors have secured a fourth superseding indictment against Chicago rapper Lil Durk, whose legal name is Durk Banks, revising the charging document ahead of his upcoming federal murder-for-hire trial without adding new criminal allegations. The indictment, returned by a federal grand jury, increases the number of counts against Banks from six to seven by dividing a single interstate stalking allegation into two separate offenses. Prosecutors said the amendment resolves a legal issue involving multiple victims under the federal interstate stalking statute rather than expanding the government’s theory of the case. Lil Durk faces 4th superseding indictment as feds update charges two weeks before trial pic.twitter.com/ZHXhli6BrF — My Mixtapez (@mymixtapez) August 6, 2026 According to the fourth superseding indictment, the previous charging document improperly combined allegations involving rapper Quando Rondo, identified as T.B. in court filings, and Saviay’a Robinson, known professionally as Lul Pabb, into one stalking count. Robinson was killed during the August 2022 shooting in Los Angeles that authorities allege targeted Quando Rondo. In the filing, prosecutors explained, “each victim constitutes a separate offense under the federal stalking statute,” prompting the government to seek a revised indictment before trial. Prosecutors Hit Rapper Lil Durk With 4th Superseding Indictment On Eve Of Federal Trial The new indictment charges Banks with one count of interstate stalking of Quando Rondo using a dangerous weapon. A separate count alleges interstate stalking resulting in Robinson’s death. The remaining allegations remain unchanged. It includes murder in aid of racketeering, conspiracy to commit interstate stalking, conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire. Then there is use of interstate facilities to commit murder-for-hire resulting in death, and a related firearms charge. Prosecutors continue to allege that members of Only The Family, or OTF, orchestrated a retaliatory plot against Quando Rondo following the 2020 killing of rapper King Von. They contend Robinson was fatally struck during the attempted attack. Banks has pleaded not guilty. The revised indictment arrives weeks before trial before U.S. District Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald. The court recently severed the racketeering allegations. Leaving jurors to consider only the Los Angeles murder-for-hire allegations during the upcoming proceedings. The fourth superseding indictment will serve as the operative charging instrument when Banks stands trial later this month.

Cardi B is making one thing clear: she will fiercely defend her latest business venture. The Grammy-winning rapper responded after plus-size advocate and content creator Samyra criticized her newly announced partnership with fashion retailer Old Navy, reigniting a public feud that first surfaced last year. The dispute began after Old Navy teased an upcoming campaign featuring Cardi B across its social media channels. The announcement quickly gained momentum online, prompting reactions from fans and critics alike. Among them was Samyra, whose platform centers on plus-size representation, body positivity and fashion inclusivity. Cardi B Seemingly Responds After Samyra, Who Previously Criticized the Rapper Over Body Image Comments, Reacts to Her Old Navy Partnership Cardi B is making it clear that when it comes to her business, she takes protecting her bag seriously. The rapper recently teamed up with… pic.twitter.com/pBS80MO9EF — The Gworls Are Fighting (@baddietvv) August 5, 2026 In a TikTok video that has since been deleted, Samyra questioned the collaboration and urged followers to voice their concerns. “Old Navy… That better not be who I think it is talking about. Y’all better do something with them,” she said. The post spread across social media, fueling debate over the campaign. While many users celebrated Cardi’s latest endorsement, others discussed Old Navy’s history with inclusive sizing and its relationship with the plus-size community. Rapper Cardi B Defends Herself Against Plus-Size Content Creator Samyra’s Comments Over New Old Navy Campaign Cardi did not stay silent. The rapper fired back in a social media post, making it clear that criticism affecting her business deals crosses a line. “I don’t mess with nobody for real… but trying to take money out my pockets is like takin’ chicken nuggets out my kids’ mouths,” Cardi wrote. “Trust, I become a whole demon ’bout my coins. NOW MOO THAT!!!” Her response quickly circulated on X and Instagram, where supporters applauded her defense of the partnership while others continued discussing representation in fashion campaigns. The latest exchange follows a similar disagreement in 2025. At the time, Samyra accused Cardi of mocking her plus-size fans while promoting merchandise. Cardi denied the allegation, saying she had been joking with supporters and arguing that Samyra had taken her comments out of context. Since then, Samyra has continued building an audience through conversations about body inclusivity and accessible fashion. Meanwhile, Cardi’s latest response underscores her determination to protect both her public image and her growing portfolio of high-profile brand partnerships, including her new campaign with Old Navy.

Former Death Row Records executive Marion “Suge” Knight is expected to testify in the long-awaited Las Vegas murder trial of Duane “Keffe D” Davis, a notable reversal after previously stating he would not take the witness stand in the prosecution over the 1996 killing of rapper Tupac Shakur, known professionally as 2Pac. Suge Knight, who was driving the BMW carrying Shakur on Sept. 7, 1996, is the only surviving occupant of the vehicle and is expected to serve as a key prosecution witness. In 2023, Knight told TMZ there was “1000% I wouldn’t go” when asked whether he would testify. His anticipated appearance could provide firsthand testimony about the drive-by shooting near Flamingo Road and Koval Lane that left Shakur mortally wounded. The rapper died six days later at University Medical Center of Southern Nevada. Suge Knight On Witness List In Duane “Keffe D” Davis’s Tupac Shakur (2Pac) Las Vegas Murder Trial Knight is serving a 28-year prison sentence in California for a 2015 fatal hit-and-run. Under Nevada law, a judge may permit testimony by remote video if logistical or security concerns make an in-person appearance impractical. Davis, 63, has remained in custody since his September 2023 arrest. Prosecutors allege the admitted former South Side Compton Crips leader orchestrated the shooting that killed Shakur, although they do not contend he fired the fatal shots. He has pleaded not guilty to one count of murder with a deadly weapon with the intent to promote, further or assist a criminal gang. The state has argued that Davis’ own statements revived a case that remained unsolved for decades. Prosecutors have pointed to his 2019 memoir and multiple media interviews as evidence supporting the charges. Defense counsel disputes the allegations, arguing prosecutors lack physical evidence linking Davis to the homicide and rely heavily on witnesses who were not present during the shooting. In a recent jailhouse interview with KLAS-TV, Davis rejected the possibility of a negotiated resolution, citing serious health issues. “I wouldn’t live long enough,” he said when explaining why he would not accept a plea agreement. Shakur’s stepbrother, Maurice “Mopreme” Shakur, said the proceedings remain emotionally difficult for the family but expressed hope that “the trial is fair, and we find out the truth.”

Drake put generosity at the center of his annual Strong Women, Stronger Drinks celebration, reportedly giving away more than $1 million in cash and luxury prizes during the exclusive Toronto event. Held Tuesday night at Casa Loma, the invitation-only gathering honored Canadian women making an impact in business, entrepreneurship and digital media. The third annual edition quickly became one of the city’s biggest social media moments as videos of the giveaways spread online. View this post on Instagram According to multiple reports, Drake awarded 10 attendees $50,000 each, while six others received $100,000. The giveaways surpassed the $1 million mark before additional prizes entered the picture. Video from the event captured emotional reactions as the Toronto rap superstar personally surprised one guest with a $50,000 gift. Another clip revealed a lineup of luxury vehicles, including Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUVs and BMWs, waiting for winners. Rapper Drake Hands Out Millions In Cars & Gifts At 3rd Annual Strong Women, Stronger Drinks Event In Toronto The gifts did not stop there. Guests also reportedly received Birkin handbags and other premium prizes, turning the evening into one of Drake’s most lavish community events to date. Strong Women, Stronger Drinks has become an annual tradition in Drake’s hometown, celebrating women whose work has influenced their communities and industries. While the event is known for extravagant giveaways, its focus remains on recognizing women who continue to make an impact across Canada. Drake spent the evening greeting guests, celebrating winners and taking part in the festivities. His appearance reinforced the event’s reputation as more than a celebrity-hosted party. Instead, it served as a celebration built around appreciation and opportunity. The rapper has long maintained close ties to Toronto despite his global success. Strong Women, Stronger Drinks has become another example of that connection, combining philanthropy with the larger-than-life moments fans have come to expect from the OVO boss. This year’s event generated widespread conversation across social media, with clips of the giveaways drawing millions of views. Although Drake did not publicly address the night’s donations, the scale of the cash awards and luxury gifts spoke for themselves, making the latest Strong Women, Stronger Drinks gathering one of the biggest feel-good moments of the week in hip-hop.

Rapper Ralfy The Plug is shutting down the rap superstar Drake conspiracy theories surrounding the death of his brother, late hip-hop star Drakeo the Ruler, making it clear he has no patience for the internet’s growing list of unsupported claims. During a recent interview with West Coast rapper Glasses Malone, Ralfy addressed rumors that have continued to circulate nearly five years after Drakeo, born Darrell Caldwell, was fatally stabbed backstage at the Once Upon a Time in L.A. festival in December 2021. While social media has fueled endless speculation about the case, Ralfy said many of the stories have become detached from reality. One rumor has repeatedly linked YG to Drakeo’s killing because of the rappers’ highly publicized feud before Drakeo’s death. However, no publicly available evidence has connected YG to the fatal stabbing. Drakeo The Ruler’s brother, Ralfy The Plug, speaks out amid the allegations made by Glasses Malone, who accused Drake of funding a campaign against YG: “I just head a n***a say today that Drake been taking care of the family and sh*t. I know these n***as is getting delusional.… pic.twitter.com/kP4smCRqCR — HotNewHipHop (@HotNewHipHop) August 4, 2026 More recently, another conspiracy theory has claimed rap superstar Drake has quietly supported efforts to blame YG and push authorities toward an arrest. Ralfy dismissed the allegation outright, saying the internet has created a false narrative with no factual basis. “N***as got a strong case of delusion. I just heard a n***a say today that Drake been taking care of the family and sht. I know these n***as is getting delusional. Bro, this sh*t is getting crazy,” Ralfy said. Rapper Ralfy The Plug Denies Rap Superstar Drake’s Involvement After Late Hip-Hop Star Drakeo The Ruler’s Death The outspoken Los Angeles rapper made it clear he is tired of watching social media transform rumors into supposed facts. His comments reflected frustration with content creators and online personalities who continue to recycle unverified claims surrounding his brother’s death. Drakeo’s killing remains one of hip-hop’s most tragic losses in recent years, and discussion about the case continues across social platforms. Even so, Ralfy urged fans to separate speculation from evidence instead of embracing conspiracy theories. His appearance with Glasses Malone served as another reminder that Drakeo’s family is still navigating the aftermath of an unimaginable tragedy. For Ralfy, the focus should remain on honoring his brother’s legacy rather than amplifying internet fiction that only deepens confusion around the case.

Hip-Hop star Latto is enjoying the glow of motherhood while soaking up the summer sun in St. Tropez, and her latest vacation photos have drawn plenty of attention, including from rapper and alleged partner 21 Savage. The 27-year-old hip-hop star shared a new collection of images from the French Riviera, posing aboard a luxury yacht before switching into a motorcycle-inspired outfit. She completed the look with a Chanel beach bag, showcasing the effortless style that has become one of her trademarks. View this post on Instagram Okayy! 21 Savage said he’s trying to go 50/50 again after seeing Latto in the visuals for her record ‘Okayyy’.:@gettyimages :#TSRStaffJR pic.twitter.com/qNWRwdxQWp — TheShadeRoom (@TheShadeRoom) July 26, 2026 The glamorous getaway comes just months after Latto welcomed the couple’s first child. Fans flooded social media with praise for the rapper’s radiant appearance as she embraced her latest chapter both personally and professionally. Among those admiring the photos was 21 Savage, who recently made his feelings known after watching Latto’s new “Okayyy” music video featuring Doja Cat. The Grammy-winning rapper reposted a clip from the video to his Instagram Story and jokingly hinted that he is already thinking about expanding their family. Hip-Hop Star Latto Wows In St. Tropez Thirst Traps While Rapper 21 Savage Asks For More Babies “Can we have another 1 pleaseeeeeeeee,” he wrote alongside a string of heart-eyes emojis. The playful message offered another glimpse into the couple’s romance, which they kept largely out of the spotlight for years. After years of speculation, Latto publicly acknowledged their relationship before the pair later announced they were expecting their first child. Motherhood has become a central theme in Latto’s recent work. Her album, Big Mama, explores family, personal growth and life after pregnancy. The opening song, “Business & Personal,” features intimate references to the couple’s journey, while its accompanying music video includes childhood photographs, a pregnancy journal and a tender moment showing 21 Savage gently resting his hand on Latto’s baby bump. For now, Latto appears to be embracing every moment of her summer escape in St. Tropez. Judging by 21 Savage’s affectionate response, the rapper’s vacation snapshots have left a lasting impression both on fans and on the man hoping to convince her that baby No. 2 should already be part of the conversation.

Hip-Hop mogul Ye (Kanye West)’s 2025-2026 global stadium run has been a massive success fueled by new powerhouse touring company IKON Presents. The independent promoter has reached a defining moment in its rapid ascent through the live entertainment industry. The Las Vegas-based touring company is now producing and promoting Ye’s upcoming 2026 and 2027 stadium run, marking its largest collaboration since launching in 2018. View this post on Instagram Ye continues to unveil dates for the expansive stadium trek. IKON Presents will oversee a multi-city run across some of the nation’s largest venues, underscoring the company’s growing influence in large-scale concert production. The partnership follows years of steady expansion. Since its debut, IKON Presents has welcomed more than one million fans across more than 200 live events. The independent company has staged concerts in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Phoenix, Tampa, San Antonio, Hawaii and London, selling hundreds of thousands of tickets while building a national presence. IKON Presents Becomes New Touring Powerhouse After Powering Hip-Hop Mogul Ye (Kanye West) Stadium Run “Now the company is taking on one of the most ambitious undertakings in live music: Ye’s stadium run,” IKON said. “As Ye continues to announce his 2026 and 2027 stadium run, IKON is promoting and producing a multi-city series across some of the largest venues in the country — exactly the kind of large-scale, artist-driven production the company has built its name on.” The promoter has assembled an impressive résumé spanning music and comedy. Its roster includes Lil Wayne, Janet Jackson, Snoop Dogg, Lady Gaga, Morgan Wallen, Kevin Hart, and Future. Those productions have ranged from intimate theater performances and extended residencies to arena concerts and stadium spectacles. IKON’s schedule remains packed beyond Ye’s tour. The company will co-present Legends of Gospel: Vegas Residency on Oct. 8, 9 and 11, 2026, at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. The event features The Clark Sisters, Deitrick Haddon and Fred Hammond in partnership with Dr. Holly Carter and Relevé Entertainment. Alongside concert promotion, IKON operates the KLTRE Creative Campus venue business and maintains partnerships with MGM, AEG and BPC. Those relationships have strengthened its footprint. Allowing the company to preserve the independent, artist-focused approach that has fueled its rise in the live music business.

Houston rapper OMB Bloodbath, whose legal name is Alexandra Nicks, was convicted alongside alleged 103 street gang leader Shaquille Richards after a federal jury found the pair guilty of murder in aid of racketeering and using a firearm to commit murder during a racketeering offense stemming from a 2017 retaliatory drive-by shooting in Houston’s Third Ward. @TheJusticeDept v. @ombbloodbath: Houston rapper OMB Bloodbath, real name Alexandra Elizabeth Nicks, was found “guilty” by a jury in Count 1 using a firearm during a racketeering mur and mur in aid of reacketeering after 9-day retrial in Houston, Texas, federal court that began… pic.twitter.com/w6sUTYs0E8 — Bryson “Boom” Paul (@brysonboompaul) August 5, 2026 The verdict followed a federal trial in which prosecutors alleged Nicks and Richards directed the 103 street gang during a violent feud with the rival Young Scott Block, or YSB, gang. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the government argued the defendants ordered lower-ranking gang members to carry out a retaliatory attack after a series of shootings and homicides escalated tensions between the rival organizations. Trial evidence showed that on Oct. 16, 2017, four alleged 103 gang members entered YSB territory armed with multiple firearms, including weapons equipped with 50-round and 100-round drum magazines. Prosecutors said the gunmen opened fire after spotting an alleged rival gang member on a street corner. Houston Rapper OMB Bloodbath Convicted In Federal Murder Retrial The intended target survived the shooting. A 53-year-old bystander standing outside a nearby residence, however, was struck by gunfire and later died from his injuries. Federal prosecutors said the victim had no affiliation with either gang. The government further alleged the suspects crashed their vehicle while fleeing the scene. Three participants allegedly carjacked a woman whose infant was inside the vehicle, while a fourth fled on foot before authorities arrested him nearby after discarding a firearm and clothing. To establish the racketeering charges, prosecutors relied on jail telephone calls, social media evidence and witness testimony. The government argued the evidence demonstrated that Nicks and Richards ordered the retaliatory shooting. “This gang war plagued Houston’s Third Ward community for years,” Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva said in a statement. U.S. Attorney Aaron Reitz said the convictions reflect the Justice Department’s commitment to prosecuting violent gang activity. “If you wage war on our streets, terrorize our communities, and put innocent Texans in the crosshairs, my office will come for you,” Reitz said. Four co-defendants—Deandre Watson, Mertroy Harris, Marcus Christopher and Marquis Erskin—previously pleaded guilty and are scheduled for sentencing Sept. 2, each facing a potential life sentence. Nicks and Richards will be sentenced at a later date by U.S. District Judge George Hanks.