deposition

Megan Thee Stallion Shines Bright Like A Diamond At LA Pride Show As 1501 Rejects Her Deposition Demands

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Megan Thee Stallion markedly hit the stage at Los Angeles’ Pride in the Park this weekend. While she was happy to twerk up a storm for the LGBTQ community, her mind was riddled with legal woes. The Houston native is gearing up to face off against 1501 Certified Entertainment, her former label, in court. However, a recent deposition sent to head Carl Crawford from MTS’ attorneys has reportedly been declined.

According to documents obtained by Radar Online, Crawford and 1501 have filed a motion which denies employing Darien Smith at the label. They do have a working relationship, though Smith is reportedly an independent contractor who manages one of their artists but is otherwise not affiliated with Carl’s company. In addition, the 1501 leader pointed out that the deposition seemingly confuses “Darien Smith” and “Darrian Smith”

Read More: Megan Thee Stallion Requests Kelsey Harris’ Texts Mentioning Her Name Ahead Of 1501 Trial

Megan Thee Stallion Performs “Plan B” at Pride in the Park

“The label said it has never refused ‘to produce a corporate representative’ to testify regarding its publishing claim. Instead, 1501 has repeatedly asked [Megan’s] counsel to articulate what testimony [Megan] is seeking so that it might present an appropriate witness,” Radar Online reported earlier this week. It seems the next steps will be for the “Big Ole Freak” artist’s lawyers to personally subpoena “Darien Smith,” seeing as he’s not employed at Thee Stallion’s former label.

While the latest update in her legal battle is surely an annoying one, the southern superstar didn’t let it get in the way of her set on Friday (June 9) night. Her stage costume had her shining bright like a diamond while dancing along to hits like “Body” and “WAP,” all while the crowd proudly cheered her on. She may not have plans to release new music anytime soon, but Thee Hotties are still showing out loudly and proudly in support of their coach.

Read More: Megan Thee Stallion On New Music: “Right Now I’m Focused On Healing”

More Videos from Rap Diva’s Latest Performance

Keep scrolling to see more videos from Megan Thee Stallion’s highly anticipated performance at LA’s 2023 Pride in the Park. Which song would you most like to see the rap diva perform live? Let us know in the comments, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.

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The post Megan Thee Stallion Shines Bright Like A Diamond At LA Pride Show As 1501 Rejects Her Deposition Demands appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Jack Harlow Scheduled To Testify In Nightclub Shooting Lawsuit: Report

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Jack Harlow is as wholesome as a rapper can get these days. Between pop-friendly radio records and his cheeky charisma, he kept out of trouble and maintained a rather clean reputation. Even so, Harlow’s found himself connected to troubling headlines in the past. A few years ago, a shooting at a nightclub in his hometown of Louisville, KY. Though Harlow had nothing to do with the fatal incident, his DJ, Ronnie O’Bannon turned himself into authorities in 2021.

O’Bannon was indicted on charges of murder and tampering with evidence in connection to 37-year-old Kasmira Nash’s death. However, he argued that he acted out of self-defense. The family filed a lawsuit against the Vibes Restaurant and Ultra Lounge, as well as its owners, for Nash’s death. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of Nash’s son Kaleb and her mother, alleges that the nightclub didn’t take enough precautions. They claim the club allowed O’Bannon and his entourage, including Jack Harlow, to enter the club without any security checks, allowing him to bring the weapon inside. They now want compensation for damages, including funeral costs.

Jack Harlow Called For Deposition

CLEVELAND, OHIO – FEBRUARY 18: Jack Harlow attends the Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game during the 2022 NBA All-Star Weekend at Wolstein Center on February 18, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

Though Jack Harlow wasn’t named in the lawsuit, he was summoned to provide sworn testimony. Per WLKY, Harlow has been scheduled to sit down for a deposition in the case. The rapper is among three individuals, including the owner, who has been called to provide their testimony. Harlow’s video deposition is scheduled for August 30th, 2023. Meanwhile, O’Bannon’s criminal case has been pushed back to October. 

Following the shooting, Jack Harlow issued a statement on his Instagram Story where he shared his condolences for Nash and her family. “My heart breaks for Kasmira, her children, and everyone else touched by this tragic death,” he wrote after the fatal shooting. “I’ve been in touch with Kasmira’s family during this unimaginably painful time, and I’m grateful to them for keeping the lines of communication open. Nothing can reverse what happened. Too many lives have been changed forever. My life will remain committed to making Louisville a better place.“ We’ll keep you posted on any more updates surrounding the case. 

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Post Malone Reportedly Blows Off Deposition In $350K Case With Ex-Girlfriend

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Post Malone is reportedly dismissing a deposition for a $350K court case involving his split from ex-girlfriend Ashlen Diaz. Both individuals face a lawsuit from Martorell Law, who Diaz hired to arrange palimony from Post (support for non-married split couples) after their 2018 breakup. Moreover, Martorell accused both of reaching a private agreement and cutting the firm from previously promised settlement percentages. Now, the law firm alleged that Malone did not respond to the deposition served in his home of Utah.

According to a Radar Online report on Friday (March 3), Martorell filed a motion for a default judgement against Post of $787,027.60 for failing to answer the court order. Also, they claim that his legal team “refused to accommodate the request and instead threatened to bring malicious prosecution charges … six times despite Martorell noting repeatedly that he heard the threat and respectfully requesting he not repeat it.” Then, his lawyers addressed the situation by maintaining that he did not receive the notice upon delivery and only recently became aware of it.

Post Malone Reportedly Dismisses Deposition

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 7: Post Malone supporting the Red Hot Chili Peppers during their Unlimited Love Tour at Marvel Stadium on February 7, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo credit should read Chris Putnam/Future Publishing via Getty Images)

“Because of the nature of my work as a touring musician, I spend most of my time on the road traveling for work or performing on tour,” Post stated in his team’s filing. “Indeed, in 2022, I only spent an estimated combined total of 2 months in the State of Utah. I had no idea I had been sued, and I had no idea I was a party to this action. I did not learn about the existence of this lawsuit until on or around December 19, 2022, upon which my attorneys were swiftly notified.”

Meanwhile, this adds to the “rockstar” singer’s legal problems, such as a suit involving Bored Ape Yacht Club NFTs. Among several other famous codefendants, he faced accusations of misleading promotion and dishonestly valuing digital products. Moreover, the suit is specifically against Yuga Labs Inc., the company behind the virtual pieces. Regardless of his legal woes, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest on Post Malone.

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Tory Lanez Demands Prince From “L&HH” To Sit For Deposition In Assault Case

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Tory Lanez and his legal team recently demanded that Prince of Love & Hip Hop: Miami fame sit down for a deposition after the latter’s accusations against him. Moreover, according to court documents obtained by RadarOnline.com, Lanez’s lawyers asked a judge in Miami court to force Prince to show up to the proceeding. Furthermore, this follows Prince’s lawsuit against the Canadian rapper for assault. Going off his testimony, Lanez allegedly attacked him with assistance from his crew on two separate occasions.

First, the “Say It” star, according to Prince’s testimony, punched him in the face after a verbal altercation in 2019. Said incident took place at the nightclub LIV on November 8th, located near Miami Beach. Not only that, but the reality star said Tory’s entourage also jumped him afterwards, and he alleged that it caused blunt trauma to his back, neck, and chest. However, nightclubs proved to be a common factor, at least from Prince’s side of the story. Moreover, he alleged later in 2020 that he ran into Lanez again at a separate Miami nightclub. Much like his last accusation, he said that the artist punched him in the face.

Tory Lanez Wants Prince To Sit For Deposition

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY – AUGUST 26: Prince Michael Harty attends the 2019 MTV Video Music Awards at Prudential Center on August 26, 2019 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)

“Immediately after punching [Prince] in the face, [Tory’s] employee/agent fled and attempted to enter [Tory’s] vehicle,” the lawsuit stated. “However, [Tory] yelled at the agent/employee and instructed him to leave the premises in a separate vehicle.” Still, Lanez argued that his actions were in self-defense and moved to dismiss. Furthermore, Lanez later asked the court to uphold a settlement that Prince allegedly signed, though he says the artist pressured him into doing so. “He told me not to contact my lawyer when I told him I needed my lawyer to review the agreement,” the Miami native stated. Also, he said that he found Tory with an armed member of his team at the settlement meeting, which further pressured him.

“This individual is the same individual who was ordered by [Lanez] to attack me at the Vendome night club and he did so,” Prince stated. “I cannot share his identity at this time as this individual threatened me that if I mention his name, I would be severely injured or even killed. This individual was in possession of a firearm which was visible at the meeting.” Now, Lanez said he paid Prince $20K to settle and wants him to face a deposition to enforce the deal in court. Regardless of your take on these stars, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest on Prince from Love & Hip Hop and Tory Lanez.

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Drake Will Not Have To Sit For A Deposition In XXXTENTACION Murder Trial, Judge Rules

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Over the past few years, the conspiracy theories linking Drake to XXXTENTACION’s death have been endless. There have been plenty of fan theories dissecting lyrics and music videos in an attempt to connect Drizzy to the Florida rapper’s death. Unfortunately, the Internet theories led to real-life implications and in the past two months, defense attorneys have used Drake’s name in an attempt to create some sort of doubt that the four men on trial did not actually murder XXXTENTACION. 

Most recently, the attorney for Dedrick Williams, Mauricio Padilla, has tried to convince a judge that his argument requires a deposition from Drake. There’s been a back-and-forth that led to a pair of process servers facing off with Drake’s security in Calabasas. On top of that, one of the defendants, who copped a deal and turned state’s witness, confirmed on the stand that he has no ties to Drake whatsoever. Meanwhile, the rapper’s lawyer has had to appear in court to try and quash the deposition since last week, though it appears that the judge has made a definitive decision.

Judge Rules In Drake’s Favor

This week, Padilla returned to court where he addressed the judge surrounding the Drake deposition and in short, it didn’t work out for him. Padilla tried to explain the video of 600Breezy going to Florida to find XXXTENTACION supposedly on Drake’s behalf. “Counsel, then subpoena 600Breezy,” the judge informed Padilla before shutting the door on any possibility of having Drake sit down for a deposition.

“What does that have to do with someone else who you have no evidence of being involved other than hearsay and innuendo,” the judge continued. “You are now trying to just drag somebody in who’s a celebrity, who does not want to be associated with this. And to harm that individual is not inconsequential.” Padilla began to explain the connection between Breezy and Drake but clearly, the judge was fed up. “You’ve had this case since 2018. Go talk to Breezy,” he said with his hands up. Overall, Padilla’s attempt to get Drake on the stand has been an utter failure. Check the clip above. 

Drake Dodges Deposition In XXXTENTACION Murder Trial

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Drake likely never thought that the silent tension brewing between himself and XXXTENTACION would ever lead to a deposition. X took many issues with Drake in the years prior to his death. It began with Drake’s “KMT” flow, which X said was stolen from “Look At Me!” However, the tension between them escalated even further beyond that. Unfortunately, it led to numerous allegations that Drake somehow had some involvement in the Broward County rapper’s death, which defense attorneys mentioned on numerous occasions since the trial began.

Dedrick Williams’ attorney, Mauricio Padilla, said that investigators never looked into Drake and X’s beef prior to making arrests. Additionally, he brought up the fact that X’s mother asked his uncle to accompany him when he went shopping for a motorcycle out of fear of the public feuds he had with well-known rappers. During the pre-trial, Padilla mentioned that he wanted Drake on the witness stand to testify in the trial. Shortly after, he filed a motion to have Drake sit down for a deposition, which a judge granted over the weekend. Even after the state’s witness, Robert Allen – the fourth suspect arrested over X’s death – said that he didn’t know Drake, anyone from Toronto, or any parties associated with the Canadian artist.

Judge Grants Drake’s Motion To Dodge Deposition

It looks like Drake won’t have to sit down for a deposition after all. According to TMZ, Judge Michael A. Usan granted Drake’s motion to dodge the deposition. Drizzy’s attorney appeared in court earlier this week where he explained that, not only was the subpoena flawed, but that there isn’t a shred of evidence tying the rapper to X’s death. Though the judge agreed, he stated that he would have to work out a schedule with the defense for a deposition. Judge Usan ultimately backtracked on that ruling and let Drizzy off the hook once the rapper’s lawyer explained that his client had no relevant information to provide.

Now, is there a possibility that Drake might still have to sit down for a deposition? Potentially but that would require some serious work from Padilla, especially since the trial is already underway. For now, it appears that Drake is in the clear and won’t have any involvement in the trial moving forward. We’ll keep you posted if anything changes in the future. Sound off with your thoughts in the comment section below.

Drake’s Legal Team File Motion To Quash Deposition Order In XXXTENTACION Murder Trial

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There has been no shortage of conspiracy theories alleging Drake’s involvement in XXXTENTACION’s murder death. Though it began as online rumors with fans reaching to put pieces together, it, unfortunately, reached the courtroom. Dedrick Williams’ attorney, Mauricio Padilla, questioned the state’s witness about the Toronto artist’s involvement while tying in Drizzy’s “God Plan” music video. However, the witness took the stand and denied knowing the Her Loss rapper or his affiliates. Still, after months of pushing, the judge granted Padilla’s motion to subpoena Drake for a deposition in the case.  

Last week, Judge Michael Usan stated that Drake previously failed to appear for a deposition in January. “As a result of Aubrey Drake Graham’s failure to appear for the deposition set on Jan. 27, 2023, Aubrey Drake Graham shall appear for deposition at 5:00pm EST on Friday, Feb. 24th, 2023,” the motion read. The judge said Drake would have to appear in court on Feb. 27th if he failed to appear at the deposition and explain why he shouldn’t be held in contempt of court. 

Following the judge’s decision, the “Jimmy Cooks” rapper’s legal team filed a motion to quash the order requiring him to appear for a deposition. Drake’s lawyer stated in the motion that the paperwork wasn’t served properly. Additionally, he pointed out that there’s no evidence “to substantiate the assertion that (Drake) in any way contributed to, had knowledge of, or participated in the alleged incident.” He added demanding the Canadian rapper “appear for something that he very clearly has no relevant knowledge of is unreasonable.”

This morning, Drake’s attorney, Brad Cohen, appeared on the rapper’s behalf to further dismiss the deposition order, per WPLG reporter Ian Margol. Cohen reiterated his argument from the motion he filed over the weekend, and it appears that the judge didn’t necessarily oppose. Still, it appears that Drake will have to sit down for a deposition. “Judge didn’t disagree but said Drake and his attorney would have to work with the defense to figure out a deposition time to allow for full due process,” Margol tweeted. We’ll keep you posted on any more updates.

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Drake Beef Brought Up In Hearing For XXXTENTACION’s Murder Suspects

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June will mark five years since XXXTENTACION’s untimely death but this month, the accused killers will finally face trial.

Though jury selection begins on Jan. 18, the attorneys for three of the suspects — Michael Boatwright, 28, Dedrick Williams, 26, and Trayvon Newsome, 24 — appeared in court this week for pre-trial hearings. The judge ruled that XXXTENTACION’s mother would have to disclose her earnings after her son’s death. However, the attorneys also mentioned Drake.

Williams’s attorney, Maurico Padilla, tried to persuade the judge to order a deposition of Drake due to his feud with XXXTENTACION. As you recall, XXXTENTACION previously took issue with the Canadian rapper stealing his flow.

During the hearing, Padilla said Drake and his associates, including Akademiks, may have had an issue with the Broward County artist. The judge denied the motion and said that there was no need for a deposition.

SUNRISE, FL - JUNE 27: Fans leave items at a makeshift memorial outside XXXTentacion Funeral & Fan Memorial at BB&T Center on June 27, 2018 in Sunrise, Florida. (Photo by Jason Koerner/Getty Images)
SUNRISE, FL – JUNE 27: Fans leave items at a makeshift memorial outside XXXTentacion Funeral & Fan Memorial at BB&T Center on June 27, 2018 in Sunrise, Florida. (Photo by Jason Koerner/Getty Images)

“This is one of the biggest celebrities in the world,” Padilla said. “Excluding an order from this court, we all know that I will never be able to take his deposition.”

Additionally, the state and the defense agreed no one should be permitted to wear graphic T-shirts during the trial.

The defense suggested that there are other individuals who might have motives, whether financial or personal, to kill XXXTENTACION.

Last month, we reported that Padilla shared a list of potential witnesses for the trial, including Drake and Akademiks. Additionally, the attorney named Quavo, Offset, Joe Budden, and 6ix9ine as potential witnesses. At this point, it’s unclear if a judge will order a testimony from the celebrities mentioned.

We will keep you up to speed on any further updates surrounding this case.

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