death

XXXTentacion’s Killer Argues He’s Not An “Evil Person”

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XXXTentacion’s killer, Michael Boatwright, recently spoke out in a statement on his social media pages as caught by DJ Akademiks. Boatwright is currently behind bars after a judge sentenced him to two consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole, plus another 30 years for other charges, last year.

In his post, Boatwright wrote: “Y’all just judge me off this one thing y’all know bout me but y’all don’t even know the truth behind all this, I’m not this evil person that everybody think I am and nobody even know me as a person y’all believe in everything u see on social media, I’m not sorry for nothing I did. #itsstillfreeme.”

Read More: XXXTentacion Associate Says “It’s Still F*ck Drake” After Ryan Garcia’s Viral Conspiracy Theory

Michael Boatwright Arrested In The Killing Of XXXTentacion

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL – JULY 10: (EDITORS NOTE: Best quality available) In this handout photo provided by the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, Michael Boatwright, 22, a suspect in the shooting of rapper XXXTentacion, is seen in a police booking photo after his arrest on charges of first-degree murder July 10, 2018 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Broward County Sheriff’s Office via Getty Images)

When DJ Akademiks shared the post on X (formerly Twitter), fans had plenty to say about the statement. “I wonder what he means by the truth behind all this, are we missing something?” one user asked. Another replied: “Him not being remorseful publicly is going to keep him from getting parole.” Other users joked about the unfounded rumors Drake was allegedly involved in the killing. “The murderer is here taking responsibility every time but they still find a way to blame Drake for X’s murder,” one user wrote.

Michael Boatwright Speaks Out

It’s not the first time Boatwright has made headlines for his antics on social media. Earlier this year, he faced backlash for reposting a cute video of X’s son before adding a series of laughing emojis. Check out his latest message on social media below. Be on the lookout for further updates on XXXTentacion on HotNewHipHop.

Read More: XXXTENTACION’s Killer Laughs At Rapper’s Son And Counts The Money He Stole From Him: Watch

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Lucas Coly’s Ex, Amber H, Tearfully Responds To Backlash After His Death

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Lucas Coly’s ex-girlfriend, Amber H, has addressed critics on social media after the rapper took his life at the age of 27, earlier this week. In doing so, she argued that she did all she could to support him over their nine-year relationship. She also went into detail about being on the phone with him during the final moments of his life.

“I did everything I could,” Amber said through tears. “That’s all I can say. I did everything I could. He could not take the breakup and that’s just what it is. I couldn’t do it anymore. I could not. I’m about to be 30. If you don’t want the help by now, if you don’t got the help by now, you don’t want the help. So don’t fault me for choosing myself. Would you rather be saying R.I.P. to Lucas and Amber?” When The Shade Room reposted the clips, fans in the comments section voiced their support.

Read More: Cardi B Responds To Internet’s Ruthless Postpartum Surgery Claims

Amber Breaks Silence On Lucas Coly’s Death

 
 
 
 
 
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Coly’s longtime manager previously told fans to look out for confirmation from Amber in a since-deleted post on Facebook. As caught by Us Weekly, he wrote: “I’m not OK. Pray for Amber y’all… He loved all of his fans. 2024 has been the worst year of my life. Lucas was more of a brother to me than my client. Amber will confirm the news when she is ready. Please give her time to process and heal. When the funeral arrangements are set, I will post them here.”

Lucas Coly’s Manager Speaks Out

Coly was born in France but immigrated to the United States at the age of 8. He initially blew up on Vine before releasing the hit song, “I Just Wanna.” Check out Amber’s comments on Instagram Live above. Be on the lookout for further updates on Lucas Coly on HotNewHipHop.

 
 
 
 
 
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Read More: DJ Akademiks Alleges Jay-Z Sent His Lawyer To Link Diddy To Tupac’s Murder

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Snoop Dogg, Martin Lawrence, And More Mourn John Amos In Heatfelt Social Media Tributes

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Snoop Dogg, Questlove, Martin Lawrence, and many other celebrities have shared tributes to the late John Amos on social media in the wake of his passing. While Amos died of natural causes back on August 21, his family only confirmed the news on Tuesday. He was 84 years old at the time of his passing.

Several of the voices to speak out have been those in hip-hop. “This man raised us God forever bless John Amos RIP,” Fat Joe wrote in a post on Instagram. On the same platform, Questlove shared a clip from Let’s Do It Again and wrote: “My fav foot chase scene of all time: Let’s Do It Again. How John Amos took went Usain In The Brain Bolt levels in church shoes I’ll never know.” As for Snoop Dogg, he posted a clip from Coming to America, which also features the late James Earl Jones. He wrote: “We lost two titans in less than a month’s time. Thank you for your contributions to the culture.”

Read More: John Amos’ Daughter Reveals She Learned Of The Actor’s Death When The Public Did

John Amos Attends The TV Land Awards

LeVar Burton, Ben Vereen and John Amos during 5th Annual TV Land Awards – Arrivals at Barker Hanger in Santa Monica, CA, United States. (Photo by J.Sciulli/WireImage)

Several actors spoke out on the passing of Amos as well, including Martin Lawrence, who wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “This one hits different. My condolences go out to the family of a true legend, John Amos.” Wendell Pierce also added that he “and James Earl Jones. Two Titans of Theater and Film. I witness them both display great talent. I am forever in their debt. Rest In Peace.”

Social Media Reacts To The Legendary Actor’s Passing

While Amos’ son, K.C., is the one who confirmed the news of his father’s passing, his daughter, Shannon, revealed on Instagram that she found out along with the public. Be on the lookout for further updates on John Amos on HotNewHipHop.

 
 
 
 
 
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Read More: John Amos Net Worth 2024: What Is The “Good Times” Icon Worth?

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John Amos’ Daughter Reveals She Learned Of The Actor’s Death When The Public Did

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Shannon Amos, the daughter of the late John Amos, says she learned of her father’s death as the news media did on Tuesday night. The Good Times actor passed away from natural causes back on August 21, although his son, K.C., only made the news public, yesterday. Shannon reacted to the tragic news in a post on Instagram, sharing a video of herself and her father.

“I am without words…Our family has received the heartbreaking news that my Dad, John Allen Amos, Jr., transitioned on August 21st. We are devastated and left with many questions about how this happened 45 days ago, learning about it through the media like so many of you,” Shannon wrote. “This should be a time of honoring and celebrating his life, yet we are struggling to navigate the wave of emotions and uncertainties surrounding his passing. Still, there is some semblance of peace in knowing my father is finally free. My family and I deeply appreciate the outpouring of love, calls, and texts. Please continue to hold our family in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you.”

Read More: John Amos Net Worth 2024: What Is The “Good Times” Icon Worth?

John Amos Accepts TV Land Icon Award

Ralph Carter, BernNadette Stanis, Jimmie Walker, John Amos and Ja’net Dobois of “Good. Times”, winner of the Impact Award (Photo by Chris Polk/FilmMagic)

During his acting career, John Amos starred in several iconic roles on Good Times, Roots, Coming to America, and more. He got his start with Melvin Van Peebles‘ classic blaxploitation film, Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song, in 1971, before making several appearance on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Later in his career, he had a recurring role on The West Wing and reprised his role as Cleo McDowell in Coming 2 America. For his all of his efforts, he was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award and an NAACP Image Award.

Shannon Amos Speaks On Her Father’s Death

Check out Shannon’s full tribute to her father on Instagram below. Many other celebrities have already spoken out on social media as well, including Snoop Dogg, Fat Joe, and more. Be on the lookout for further updates on John Amos on HotNewHipHop.

 
 
 
 
 
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Read More: Kendrick Lamar Sparks Debate Online After Filming “Not Like Us” Video In L.A.

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Rich Homie Quan’s Cause of Death Revealed

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Rich Homie Quan died from an overdose after taking several drugs, including fentanyl, according to a new report from TMZ. The Fulton County Medical Examiner in Georgia is reportedly ruling his death an accident after fentanyl, alprazolam, codeine, and promethazine were all found in his system. Additionally, there were no signs of trauma on his body when police discovered it.

The iconic Atlanta rapper died back on September 5th at the age of 34. Lamar’s girlfriend, Amber Williams, says she saw Quan asleep on the couch on the morning of his death before taking her son to school. When she returned home, she checked on him and noticed his body was cold, at which point she dialed 911. “While on scene, I did not observe any foul play. Mr. Lamar did not appear to be alert, conscious, or breathing,” the responding officer wrote in his report, as caught by Fox 5 Atlanta. “Ms. Williams advised me that Mr. Lamar did not have any medical or underlying diseases.”

Read More: Rich Homie Quan’s Team Releases Tear-Jerking Music Video For “Song Cry”

Rich Homie Quan Performs During Gazebo Festival

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY – MAY 25: Rich Homie Quan performs during the inaugural 2024 Gazebo Festival at Waterfront Park on May 25, 2024, in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Stephen J. Cohen/Getty Images)

The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s report comes after Quan’s estate released the music video for his first posthumous song, “Song Cry,” on Monday. It features the late rapper getting more emotional than usual while footage from his recent funeral service plays. “Aye, this one here personal,” he says in the intro. “I know a lot of my songs, y’all don’t take serious in a way, but I want y’all to turn this one up.” His estate held the massive service back on September 17, welcoming Killer Mike, DC Young Fly, and more to come pay tribute.

Rich Homie Quan’s Estate Drops His First Posthumous Song

Check out the music video for Quan’s “Song Cry” below. Be on the lookout for further updates on Rich Homie Quan on HotNewHipHop.

Read More: Ralo Responds To Backlash Over Alleged “Weird” Behavior At Rich Homie Quan’s Funeral

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YFN Lucci’s Attorney Confirms He’s Not Dead Despite Rampant Rumors

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Social media can be a place for connection and opportunity, but unfortunately, it’s also a way for nasty rumors to spread like wildfire. Recently, for example, one blog falsely reported that YFN Lucci passed away. This is not true, TMZ Hip Hop confirmed today. Apparently, the outlet spoke with his attorney Drew Findling, who was able to verify that Lucci is alive and well.

The outlet also points a finger at the fans who shared the false report without any evidence it was real. Needless to say, this is usually a bad idea, particularly when it comes to something as serious as someone’s life.

Read More: YFN Lucci Shooting Footage Revealed As He Vies For Early Release

YFN Lucci Is Alive, His Attorney Reveals

YFN Lucci Confirms He's Not Dead Amid Rampant Rumors
Rapper YFN Lucci attends SiriusXM+Pandora Playback with YFN Lucci at Pandora Atlanta on December 12, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)

While YFN Lucci is very much alive, he’s behind bars at the time of writing. The rapper has been vying for early release for months now, most recently getting a co-sign from Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis in July. “The state does not object to the defendant, Rayshawn Bennett being released,” she wrote at the time. Her letter arrived months after Lucci was handed a 20-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to violating the Street Gang and Terrorism Prevention Act. Despite the hefty sentence, he could be home as soon as January of next year.

This summer, footage of the 2020 shooting he’s accused of being involved in surfaced online. In the footage, obtained by WSB-TV, a man can be seen getting shot by someone in a moving vehicle and pushed into the street by other passengers. Lucci is accused of being the driver, though this is unconfirmed. What do you think of YFN Lucci that he’s alive and well amid rumors that he passed away? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

Read More: YFN Lucci Receives Co-Sign From Fani Willis As He Continues To Push For Early Release

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Tito Jackson’s Death Spawns Tributes From Questlove And DJ Premier

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The music world suffered a tremendous loss on September 16. Tito Jackson, a founding member of the Jackson 5, has died. Jackson was 70 years old, and his death was confirmed by his family. The singer’s three sons paid tribute to him via social media. That said, Tito Jackson’s legacy goes beyond his famous lineage. Luminaries within the hip hop community, including Questlove and DJ Premier, took to Instagram to pay their respects to the late great.

Questlove posted a photograph of Tito Jackson alongside his famous brother, Michael, in the 1980s. He also articulated the impact that the Jackson 5 had on his own musical knowledge growing up. “All of the Jackson brothers are heroes to me,” he explained. “I really don’t have the words right now. May the entire Jackson family find comfort & peace In this moment. Thank You Tito. rest in melody.” Questlove has been vocal about his love for Tito Jackson and the rest of the titular group. In his memoir, Mo’ Meta Blues: The World According to Questlove, The Roots drummer talked about the Jackson 5’s tireless schedule while on tour, and how it informed his perception of hard work.

Read More: Michael Jackson’s Son Says Harry Styles Doesn’t Deserve “King Of Pop” Title

DJ Premier Dubbed Tito Jackson An “Icon”

DJ Premier is a bit older than Questlove, so his tribute had more to do with the impact that Tito Jackson and the rest of the Jacksons had on him in real time. “My musical childhood is based on one of the ILLest groups: Jackson 5,” the producer asserted. “To know all of their names back in 1970 when I was 4 years old, and their roles in the group has continued to carry the same effect.” Premo also made sure to single out Tito Jackson for being part of what he considered to be the ultimate family group. “No family group has ever done it like them,” he wrote. “Thank You for your contribution to shaping my professionalism in this music sh*t. SALUTE ICON.”

Tito Jackson continued to perform up until his untimely death. The singer and musician has been playing alongside surviving brothers Marlon and Jackie Jackson as The Jacksons. The trio were even booked to perform in Atlantic City on October 25. Entertainment Tonight stated that Tito Jackson’s death was brought about by a heart attack on Sunday, September 15.

Read More: Taj Jackson Rejects Beyoncé Being “King Of Pop,” Says Title “Is Not Up For Grabs”

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Tito Jackson Passes Away At 70

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The music world suffered yet another tragedy this year, as Tito Jackson has reportedly passed away at 70 years of age. Per ET, authorities have identified no cause of death at press time, although longtime family friend Steve Manning suggested to the publication that he may have had a heart attack while on a road trip from New Mexico to Oklahoma. The Indiana native played guitar for his family’s legendary group, the Jackson 5 and The Jacksons. While he initially did not record for them due to label constraints, he eventually stood up against his obstacles and laid a foundational groundwork for the group.

Reactions, tributes, and sympathies quickly emerged online upon news of this loss, including from Tito Jackson’s sons. “We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken,” 3T (Taj, Taryll, and TJ) tweeted in the wee hours of Monday (September 16) after this news broke. “Our father Tito Jackson @titojackson5 was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being. Please remember to do what our father always preached, ‘Love One Another.’ We love you Pops and will forever miss you.”

Read More: Michael Jackson Estate Secures $600 Million Sale Despite Mother’s Objections

RIP Tito Jackson

This is still a developing story, so we’ll have to see what other information emerges in the near future surrounding Tito Jackson’s heartbreaking loss. In the meantime, fans are remembering this key role in the Jackson family’s artistic breakthrough. It was only after Tito was caught playing his father Joe’s guitar after breaking a string that the patriarch convinced his sons to form a band. If not for that moment, then perhaps we wouldn’t have witnessed history play out in the way that it did. After their Amateur Night victory at the Apollo Theater in August of 1967, the rest is history.

Sadly, this is not the first Jackson to transition to another plane, and he will not be the last. Nevertheless, Tito Jackson is far more than his absence. Many fans remembered him on social media for his quiet demeanor, his love of swing, his iconic solos and performances over the years, and his constant dedication to his family. Just under a week before his passing, Tito and his brothers Jackie and Marlon visited a memorial site to their brother Michael in Munich. He continued to perform up until his death.
Rest In Peace Tito Jackson.

Read More: Tito Jackson Says It’s Unfair To Mute Michael Jackson Over “Leaving Neverland”

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Beyonce Posts Heartfelt Tribute To Frankie Beverly Following His Death

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Beyonce is an elusive presence these days. She doesn’t have Frank Ocean levels of mystery, but has become so lionized within pop music that it’s rare to see her make public statements. Queen Bey made an exception on September 11, however. Frankie Beverly, an R&B icon dating back to the 1970s, died, and the singer decided to issue a statement paying homage. Beyonce not only praised Beverly’s talents as a vocalist, but his ability to imbue his music with inspirational feelings.

Beyonce released her statement through her production banner, Parkwood Entertainment. She kept it short and sweet, while at the same time stressing how much Beverly meant to her. “Thank you, Frankie Beverly, for bringing us all together with your music,” she wrote. “With your lyrics, you have humanized our experiences, through joy and pain.” Beyonce also praised Frankie Beverly for the sense of bonding and kinship that was present in his lyrics. “You’ve written some of the most inspiring and uplifting songs for the world to enjoy,” the singer added. “Thank you for teaching us about the importance of community, family, and togetherness.”

Read More: Beyonce’s Mind-Blowing Feature Price Allegedly Revealed By Lil Durk Hacker

Beyonce Covered A Frankie Beverly Classic In 2018

Beyonce’s appreciation for Frankie Beverly is well established. The singer opted to cover Beverly’s classic single “Before I Let You Go” during her iconic Coachella set in 2018. The performance was then made iconic by the accompanying concert film, Homecoming. Beyonce’s cover actually plays during the closing credits to the film. It was a surprising yet powerful choice of song to cover, and gesture was not lost on Frankie Beverly. He told Billboard that he didn’t know about the cover until very late in the game, and considered it an honor.

Beverly also told the outlet that his friendship with Beyonce dated back years before she covered his music. “I guess she really liked Maze and the song even then, so her mother brought her to our show at the Houston Rodeo,” the singer recalled. “We wound up working together a few times since and she’s always been very, very nice to me.” Beverly also dubbed Beyonce an “amazing” talent, and cited her cover as one of his career highlights. “This is one of the high points of my life,” he asserted. RIP.

Read More: Pharrell Firmly Shuts Down Kelis’ Complaints About Beyonce’s Use Of “Milkshake”

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Frankie Beverly, Iconic Soul Singer, Dies At 77

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Frankie Beverly, the legendary soul and funk singer known for leading the band, Maze, has died at the age of 77. His death comes after embarking on a farewell tour, earlier this year. The Beverly family confirmed the news in a statement on Instagram on Wednesday morning.

“Grieving the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional experience. During this time, as we are navigating feelings of sorrow, reflection, and remembrance we kindly ask for privacy and understanding, allowing us the space to grieve in our own way,” the Beverly family said. “This period for is one of healing, and your respect for our need for solitude is appreciated as we honor the memory of our beloved Howard Stanley Beverly known to the world as Frankie Beverly. He lived his life with pure soul as one would say, and for us, no one did it better. He lived for his music, family and friends. Love one another as he would want that for us all.”

Read More: Frankie Beverly Net Worth 2024: What Is The Legendary Singer Worth?

Frankie Beverly Performs During Essence Festival

NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 3: Frankie Beverly and Maze close out the 2005 Essence Festival at the New Orleans Superdome on July 3, 2005, in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

In response to the post, fans flooded the comments section with tributes to the late singer. “He left this world just the way he may have wanted with a farewell tour as if he [knew] the day was near. You will forever be in our hearts,” one user wrote. DJ Premier chimed in to say: “We honor and praise your great existence!!! Thank you for everything you blessed us with.”

Frankie Beverly’s Family Confirms His Passing

Beverly’s career took off after he met Marvin Gaye in San Francisco in the early 1970s. The legendary singer brought him on tour and even suggested the name Maze for his band. Over the decades, he released nine Gold albums and numerous popular singles. Check out the statement on Beverly’s family on Instagram below. Be on the lookout for further updates on Frankie Beverly on HotNewHipHop.

 
 
 
 
 
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Read More: Unforgettable Frankie Beverly Samples In Hip Hop

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