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Chaos Erupts at House Oversight Committee Hearing as Reps. Greene and Ocasio-Cortez Clash

May 17, 2024 by newhiphopnews

In an unusual turn of events, a House Oversight Committee hearing descended into chaos as Representatives Marjorie Taylor Greene and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez clashed in a heated exchange. The dramatic altercation unfolded during a markup session to hold Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt of Congress, with tempers flaring and insults flying.

The pandemonium began when Greene accused Rep. Jasmine Crockett of wearing “fake eyelashes,” sparking a nearly hour-long frenzy of disorder among lawmakers. Amidst the commotion, Chairman James Comer struggled to maintain order, while the committee room echoed with shouts and jeers.

The climax of the confrontation came with a pivotal vote on whether Greene should be allowed to continue speaking during the hearing, a decision that ultimately passed by a narrow margin of 22-20. Notably, Rep. Lauren Boebert, who has previously clashed with Greene, crossed party lines to oppose her continuation.

The hearing centered on the committee’s move to hold Attorney General Garland in contempt after his refusal to hand over audio recordings related to President Biden’s interview with special counsel Robert Hur. The vote to hold Garland in contempt passed along party lines, further escalating tensions in the chamber.

During the legislative proceedings, Greene veered off-topic, raising questions about the employment of Judge Juan Merchan’s daughter, a move that drew ire from her Democratic colleagues. Ocasio-Cortez condemned Greene’s remarks as “disgusting,” prompting a fiery exchange between the two representatives.

“Please tell me what that has to do with Merrick Garland,” Crockett, a first-term lawmaker, asked, later adding, “do you know what we’re here for?” “I don’t think you know what you’re here for,” Greene responded. “I think your fake eyelashes are messing up what you’re reading.” The comment prompted outrage from Democrats, with Rep. Jamie Raskin (Md.), the top Democrat on the committee, saying “that’s beneath even you, Ms. Greene,” and Ocasio-Cortez yelling “that’s disgusting.”

Ocasio-Cortez moved to take down Greene’s words, calling them “absolutely unacceptable.” “How dare you attack the physical appearance of another person,” she added. “Are your feelings hurt?” Greene responded. “Oh girl, oh baby girl, don’t even play,” Ocasio-Cortez shot back, leading Greene to say “oh really, baby girl?”

The back-and-forth prompted a short pause in the proceedings as Comer determined how to proceed. When they resumed, Greene said she would agree to strike her words, but Ocasio-Cortez demanded that she apologize to Crockett, an exchange that led to Greene lobbing an insult at the New York Democrat. “I believe she needs to apologize,” Ocasio-Cortez said. “I’m not apologizing,” Greene responded, to which Ocasio-Cortez replied “well then you’re not striking your words.” Why don’t you debate me?” Greene asked. “I think it’s pretty self-evident,” Ocasio-Cortez shot back. “Yeah, you don’t have enough intelligence,” Greene responded, prompting uproar among Democrats.

Ocasio-Cortez quickly moved to strike Greene’s “intelligence” comment, which the Georgia Republican agreed to. But she again said she would not apologize, sparking more chaos. “You will never get an apology out of me,” Greene reiterated shortly after. “I don’t owe you one.”

Crockett said, referring to a ruling Comer had made about Greene’s comments. “If someone on this committee then starts talking about somebody’s bleach blonde bad built butch body, that would not be engaging in personalities, correct?” Yikes.

Despite calls for apology and attempts to strike contentious remarks from the record, the confrontation persisted, with Greene refusing to back down. The chaotic scene reached a crescendo as tempers flared and accusations flew, highlighting deep divisions within the committee.

Watch below. Thoughts?

Things are out of control in the Oversight Committee as there have been repeated outbursts from Marjorie Taylor Greene. The hearing has been tied up after Greene insulted the appearance of another member.

Greene: I would like to know if any of the Democrats on this committee are… pic.twitter.com/vl2LWpkbm2

— Acyn (@Acyn) May 17, 2024

Jasmine Crockett on Marjorie Taylor Greene’s “bleach blonde, bad built, butch body” during a House committee oversight hearing.

This started after MTG said her ‘fake eyelashes were messing up her reading’pic.twitter.com/kuPKMFAjFu

— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) May 17, 2024

The post Chaos Erupts at House Oversight Committee Hearing as Reps. Greene and Ocasio-Cortez Clash first appeared on The Source.

The post Chaos Erupts at House Oversight Committee Hearing as Reps. Greene and Ocasio-Cortez Clash appeared first on The Source.

Lenny S. Celebrates 50th Birthday with JAY-Z, Beyoncé, Kevin Hart, and More at SoHo House Malibu

May 17, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Roc Nation Senior Vice President Lenny “Lenny S.” Santiago celebrated his milestone 50th birthday with an extravagant celebration at the exclusive SoHo House in Malibu. The sleek affair brought together entertainment’s elite, as guests arrived in glamorous all-black attire to revel in the festivities.

The star-studded guest list included icons like Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, Beyoncé, Kevin Hart, and Adele, alongside Hollywood’s leading tastemakers and luminaries.

Attendees were treated to a culinary extravaganza featuring dishes from renowned eatery Lucali, with cocktails provided by BACARDI, including D’USSÉ’s SideCar and Gold Fashioned. Rhude founder Rhuigi Villaseñor added a stylish touch with custom-designed hats. In contrast, a bespoke D’USSÉ XO luxury cigar lounge and artisan treats from Bignet Box added to the luxury experience.

The night came alive with music from celebrity DJs D-Nice, Chase B., and Young Guru, with a special performance by El Debarge, who serenaded Lenny S. with a rendition of “Happy Birthday,” adding a magical touch to the evening.

Sponsored by D’USSÉ Cognac, Bacardi, Grey Goose, and Lucali, Lenny S.’s birthday bash was a night to remember, blending glamour, luxury, and star power in an unforgettable celebration.

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A post shared by 𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐍𝐘 𝐒. (@kodaklens)

The post Lenny S. Celebrates 50th Birthday with JAY-Z, Beyoncé, Kevin Hart, and More at SoHo House Malibu first appeared on The Source.

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Lawyer Suggests Drake and Kendrick Lamar Could Sue Each Other for Defamation Over Accusatory Diss Tracks

May 17, 2024 by newhiphopnews

After weeks of one of the most prolific rap beefs in recent memory, it seems the smoke between Drake and Kendrick Lamar is finally dying down. ICYMI, and we don’t know how you could have, the two giants reignited their long-standing disdain for one another in March with the release of Future and Metro Boomin’s track “Like That,” featuring a verse from Lamar that took aim at Drake and J. Cole. While Cole quickly bowed out, Drake and Lamar escalated their rivalry with a series of aggressive diss tracks.

Then the response came. Drake shot back with “Push Ups” and “Taylor Made Freestyle,” targeting Lamar directly. Fans eagerly awaited each new release, encouraging the escalating conflict. Lamar quickly fired back with “6:16 in LA,” prompting Drake’s “Family Matters.” The feud intensified with Lamar’s “Meet the Grahams” and “Not Like Us,” leading to Drake’s rebuttal, “The Heart Part 6.” These tracks became increasingly personal, featuring serious, albeit unverified, allegations about domestic violence, pedophilia, and secret children.

Initially seen as competitive, the potentially career-ending accusations between Drake and Lamar have raised the stakes, especially in this hyper sensitive cultural climate, suggesting the conflict on wax, could spill into the courtroom.

Legal reporter Matt Ford humorously pondered on X, “Has anyone ever filed a defamation lawsuit over a diss track before?” Not too far reaching when you think about it.

Though unprecedented, a defamation suit isn’t out of the question. Daliah Saper, a principal attorney at Saper Law specializing in defamation, noted that public figures like Drake and Lamar would face high legal benchmarks. “They would have this added heightened pleading standard,” Saper explained, emphasizing the need to prove “actual malice.”

Saper highlighted a critical issue of public perception: “Do people now think Drake is a pedophile?” This question became pertinent after a video resurfaced showing Drake allegedly fondling a 17-year-old fan onstage. Lamar’s diss tracks accused Drake of predatory behavior and keeping sex offenders on his label’s payroll. In “Not Like Us,” Lamar went further, calling Drake and his entourage “Certified pedophiles.”

Saper suggested that Drake might consider legal action if he believed a PR campaign or responsive rap wouldn’t suffice to clear his name. For now, Drake has chosen to respond through music, addressing the allegations in “The Heart Part 6.” His defense—that his fame would have already led to his arrest if the claims were true—was criticized as tone-deaf, especially in the context of the #MeToo movement.

Drake also tackled Lamar’s claim of a secret daughter, rapping, “The ones that you’re getting your stories from, they’re all clowns. We plotted for a week and then we fed you the information/ A daughter that’s 11 years old, I bet he takes it.” Saper pointed out that this admission could undermine any defamation claim, as it suggests Lamar did not act with reckless disregard for the truth.

Ultimately, it seems unlikely that either rapper will pursue a defamation lawsuit. But in these times, you never know. Despite the serious, cancellable accusations, their careers have thrived amidst the feud, albeit for now, with boosted streams and sales. Saper concluded, “I do think it’s giving them each notoriety. They’re already incredibly famous, but this is elevating their music to another level. It’s probably ultimately a great PR play for both of them.”

The post Lawyer Suggests Drake and Kendrick Lamar Could Sue Each Other for Defamation Over Accusatory Diss Tracks first appeared on The Source.

The post Lawyer Suggests Drake and Kendrick Lamar Could Sue Each Other for Defamation Over Accusatory Diss Tracks appeared first on The Source.

Trump Trial Day 18: Michael Cohen’s Credibility Takes a Hit in Brutal Cross Examination by Defense Attorney

May 17, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Oh, it got live during the Trump criminal trial. It’s day 18, which may have marked a turning point for the defense. Donald Trump’s attorney, Todd Blanche, raised his voice and flailed his arms at Michael Cohen, accusing the prosecution’s star witness of fabricating a phone conversation with Trump just before Cohen sent $130,000 to Stormy Daniels’ attorney in October 2016. Blanche confronted Cohen with text messages exchanged with Keith Schiller, who Cohen claimed had put Trump on the phone, which was unrelated to Trump or Daniels.

This was the most dramatic moment in Cohen’s cross-examination in the hush money case and the clearest example yet of the defense’s effort to cast doubt on Cohen’s memory of phone calls and other significant interactions with Trump in 2016. To sum up, Cohen did not look good, and the prosecution may have been caught off guard. Still, Cohen never lost his composure, and that was the silver lining for himself and the DA’s office.

The court is off Friday so Trump can attend his son Barron’s high school graduation. Cross-examination of Cohen will resume Monday, and summations could begin as soon as Tuesday.

Here are the key takeaways from Day 18 of the Trump hush money trial:

Blanche spent several hours on cross-examination before addressing the evidence directly related to the case. He focused on an October 24, 2016, phone call that Trump’s bodyguard, Schiller, allegedly placed to Cohen. Under questioning from prosecutors, Cohen testified that he was reaching out to Schiller to discuss “the Stormy Daniels matter and the resolution of it.”

Blanche spent hours highlighting Cohen’s inconsistent statements to undermine his credibility over the years. He questioned Cohen on various topics, including his recanted 2018 guilty plea on tax charges, his desire to work in the White House, and his statements about seeking a pardon from Trump.

Blanche challenged Cohen on his aspirations to join Trump’s White House, which was revealed through private communications with his daughter and others like Pastor Darrell Scott. Despite this, Cohen maintained that he only ever wanted to be Trump’s attorney. He also admitted that while he publicly testified to Congress that he never sought a pardon, he had sought one through his attorney and later informed lawmakers of this behind closed doors.

For much of Cohen’s testimony, Trump appeared disengaged, often sitting with his eyes shut. However, Trump’s demeanor changed on Thursday afternoon as the focus shifted to Cohen and the media. He sat up and faced Cohen directly while Blanche questioned the witness about his conversations with New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman, who had previously been mentioned in the trial via a Trump tweet attacking her in 2018.

Before adjourning for the weekend, Judge Merchan instructed the lawyers to be ready for summations on Tuesday, indicating that the jury could have the case as early as next week. Prosecutors stated they have no other witnesses after Cohen, while the defense plans to call one campaign finance expert, though this is not definite. The defense may also call additional witnesses to challenge testimony, and Trump’s team has not decided whether Trump will testify in his defense.

The post Trump Trial Day 18: Michael Cohen’s Credibility Takes a Hit in Brutal Cross Examination by Defense Attorney first appeared on The Source.

The post Trump Trial Day 18: Michael Cohen’s Credibility Takes a Hit in Brutal Cross Examination by Defense Attorney appeared first on The Source.

Utah Jazz Scouting Bronny and Lakers Are Betting Favorite To Land King James’ Son

May 17, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The Utah Jazz are reportedly considering picking Bronny James, the son of NBA superstar LeBron James, in the upcoming NBA draft. According to Krysten Peek of Yahoo Sports, the Jazz are interested in having Bronny come for a workout and might select him with the 32nd pick.

“The Jazz have expressed interest in bringing Bronny in for an individual workout and could be interested in him with the 32nd pick, sources told Yahoo Sports,” Peek reported. “The franchise has been patiently rebuilding behind the leadership of Danny Ainge, and bringing in Bronny with the hopes of luring a superstar like LeBron could be the jump owner Ryan Smith is looking for to add a spark to the Jazz.”

The Jazz, led by executive Danny Ainge, hope that drafting Bronny might entice LeBron James to join the team, adding a major boost to their lineup.

Now, you may know, LeBron is the oldest player in the NBA and just wrapped his 21st season. It’s wild to think that NBA franchises will still do just about anything to land the four-time champion at this stage in his career by drafting his son, but these are the times. For the record, Bron is still a top-10 player in the league and has broken just about every record, so from that standpoint, it makes sense.

From a business standpoint, LeBron James has a player option to leave the Lakers and become a free agent after the 2024-25 season. This means he could potentially sign with any team, including the one that drafts his son, allowing them to play together. That part.

Current betting odds favor the Los Angeles Lakers as the team most likely to select Bronny at +160 ($100 bet to win $160) to select Bronny James. The New York Knicks, Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, Philadelphia 76ers, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Dallas Mavericks are all a distant second at +1700.

Bronny James has been participating in the NBA Combine in Chicago this week, where young players showcase their skills. He performed well in a scrimmage on Wednesday, scoring 13 points, an improvement from his previous game. His efforts have impressed many analysts, including former NBA star Jamal Crawford and Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times.

The NBA draft will take place on June 26 and 27. While Bronny is aiming to play in the NBA, it’s still uncertain if he will end up playing on the same team as his father.

The post Utah Jazz Scouting Bronny and Lakers Are Betting Favorite To Land King James’ Son first appeared on The Source.

The post Utah Jazz Scouting Bronny and Lakers Are Betting Favorite To Land King James’ Son appeared first on The Source.

42 Dugg Drops New Single “Win Wit Us” Ahead of Upcoming Album Release

May 17, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Detroit native and rising rap star 42 Dugg is back with a bang, releasing his latest single, “Win Wit Us,” via CMG Records/4PF/Interscope Records. The track is set to feature on his highly anticipated upcoming album, “4eva Us, Neva Them.”

Produced by FLEXONTHEBEAT, TyMaz, and Marshak, “Win Wit Us” sees Dugg assert his dominance, calling out those who haven’t earned their place alongside him and his crew.

Accompanying the single is an official music video directed by Counter Point. Shot across various locations and clubs in Detroit, the visual captures Dugg and his crew exuding confidence as they rap about their supremacy in the rap game.

The post 42 Dugg Drops New Single “Win Wit Us” Ahead of Upcoming Album Release first appeared on The Source.

The post 42 Dugg Drops New Single “Win Wit Us” Ahead of Upcoming Album Release appeared first on The Source.

EA SPORTS Reveals Covers for College Football 25 Featuring Donovan Edwards, Travis Hunter, and Quinn Ewers

May 17, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: EA) has unveiled the historic covers of EA SPORTS College Football 25, featuring three current college football stars: Michigan running back Donovan Edwards, Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, and Colorado wide receiver/defensive back Travis Hunter. The full reveal of the game is set for tomorrow.

“Donovan, Quinn and Travis are extraordinary talents who impressed and entertained millions of college football fans on the field last season and are poised to do so again this year,” said Daryl Holt, SVP and Group GM, EA SPORTS. “We’re proud to be able to incorporate thousands of current athletes in College Football 25, and featuring this trio of playmakers and their iconic college programs on the cover is a perfect fit as we usher in a new era for EA SPORTS and college football. I can’t wait for the world to learn more about the game tomorrow.”

Fans can look forward to explosive gameplay across 134 FBS schools and the iconic atmospheres of college football when EA SPORTS College Football 25 launches worldwide on July 19 for PlayStation®5 and Xbox Series X|S.

The cover stars have built impressive resumes. Donovan Edwards shone in the Wolverines’ national championship run, becoming the first player in College Football Playoff (CFP) history with two rushing touchdowns of 40-plus yards in the title game. Quinn Ewers led the Longhorns to a 12-2 record and a Big 12 Championship last year, while Travis Hunter is a standout two-way player, being the only FBS player in at least the last 20 seasons to record 100 yards receiving and an interception in the same game.

“EA SPORTS games are legendary and to see myself on the cover of College Football 25 is truly surreal,” said Edwards. “It’s a huge honor to join past Michigan greats as a cover athlete on an EA SPORTS college football game and keep the tradition going.”

“To represent the burnt orange on the real and virtual gridirons is such an honor. EA SPORTS games were the first place I lived out my childhood dream of playing for the Longhorns, so it’s a full-circle moment to now be on the cover of College Football 25,” said Ewers.

“I couldn’t be more pumped to be part of College Football 25 and represent my Buffaloes on the cover of a game with so much excitement behind it,” said Hunter. “I can’t wait to play and see myself, my teammates and my school in the game.”

Standard and Deluxe editions of College Football 25 are available for pre-order now. Fans seeking the ultimate football experience can opt for the EA SPORTS MVP Bundle**, which includes deluxe editions of both EA SPORTS College Football 25 and Madden NFL 25, with 3-day early access for both titles and a variety of other benefits.

Pre-orders for this highly anticipated game are now open, promising fans a comprehensive and immersive college football experience.

The post EA SPORTS Reveals Covers for College Football 25 Featuring Donovan Edwards, Travis Hunter, and Quinn Ewers first appeared on The Source.

The post EA SPORTS Reveals Covers for College Football 25 Featuring Donovan Edwards, Travis Hunter, and Quinn Ewers appeared first on The Source.

Chance the Rapper Releases Powerful DJ Premier-Produced Single “Together”

May 17, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Chance the Rapper Releases Powerful New Single "Together"

Chance the Rapper, renowned for his innovative approach to music and storytelling, has once again captured hearts with his latest release, “Together.” Produced by the legendary DJ Premier, this soul-stirring track celebrates the home-front while presenting a rallying cry to protect it.

The self-directed visual for “Together” centers on lyrics of reminiscence and pride, set against a backdrop of vintage personal home videos and archival footage from community-led political movements through history. Nostalgic clips of block club parties, barbecues, and Black Panther rallies highlight the varying nature of Black communal spaces.

In the first verse, Chance underscores the importance of the community built within the home, while the second verse looks outward, emphasizing the significance of organizing with neighbors. Themes of housing justice, displacement, and gentrification are woven throughout the record.

In a bold move, Chance explicitly calls for a community benefits agreement from former President Barack Obama regarding the development of the new Presidential Library in the residential neighborhood of South Shore in Chicago, IL.

“‘Together’ is really a call to action for Housing Justice in Chicago and abroad,” Chance the Rapper said. “It’s one of the key themes of the Star Line project, and for this song I wanted to try to paint that point with nostalgia rather than trauma.

“Losing granny’s house is a fear and reality a lot of us deal with and instead of lingering on the negatives of that reality I wanted to highlight why those spaces are so important: they’re where we build memories, move family when they need somewhere to stay, raise our kids, do hospice. All of it.”

“Together” is more than just a song; it is a poignant commentary on the necessity of preserving and protecting communal spaces. Chance the Rapper’s latest release continues to solidify his role as an artist deeply connected to his community and committed to advocating for social justice.

The post Chance the Rapper Releases Powerful DJ Premier-Produced Single “Together” first appeared on The Source.

The post Chance the Rapper Releases Powerful DJ Premier-Produced Single “Together” appeared first on The Source.

Kamaiyah Returns with New Project ‘Figuring Out My Emotions’

May 17, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Kamaiyah has kicked off 2024 with her new project, Figuring Out My Emotions, now available on all platforms. Following a successful 2023 that included two projects—The Am3rican Dream with Jay Worthy and Harry Fraud, and Another Summer Night—the Cali rapper completed her Another Summer Night Tour in late April, visiting 20 cities.

Figuring Out My Emotions features no guest appearances, with production handled by Link+Up and Quake Beatz. You can tap in below.

The post Kamaiyah Returns with New Project ‘Figuring Out My Emotions’ first appeared on The Source.

The post Kamaiyah Returns with New Project ‘Figuring Out My Emotions’ appeared first on The Source.