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Brian McKnight Jr. Responds To His Dad’s Announcement Of Legal Name Change

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Singer and estranged father Brian McKnight dropped a new album introducing his new son, Brian Kainoa Makoa Jr. to the world. Brian also revealed that he decided to legally change his name to Brian Kainoa Makoa McKnight Sr to “exactly match” his legacy’s. Now his first son –also named Brian McKnight Jr responds to a commenter and explains why he would never change his name.

Brian Sr first wrote on his Instagram:
So proud to introduce our son

🤍BRIAN KAINOA MAKOA JR. 🤍

to the world with the release of my new album lovingly created for him.

JR. because I am also proud to officially announce that I have legally changed my name to exactly match my legacy’s.

My legal name is now
BRIAN KAINOA MAKOA MCKNIGHT SR.

“MCKNIGHTtime LULLABIES” the songs of a father to his namesake available now!

#iloveourlife #babybrian #mylegacy #junior #briankainoamakoaSR #namesake #mcknighttimelullabies #mrandmrsmcknightworldtour23 #knightandlei❤ #father #son #ohana #familyfirst

Then Brian McKnight Jr posted to his story:

@pgh_betty I’m not ashamed of the name my ancestors had. I’ll never change the name my own son now has. We are witnessing an obscene level of self hate, that has reached mental illness status at this point. All we can do is pray for that man, and my new little brother, who we will all welcome with open arms one day, once he realizes who his real family is.
Legacy isn’t in the name. It’s in the character of the people. It will all be quite clear soon, just who’s on the right side of all this, because there’s no escaping what’s coming.

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Thoughts?

The post Brian McKnight Jr. Responds To His Dad’s Announcement Of Legal Name Change first appeared on The Source.

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Today in Hip-Hop History: The Firm Released ‘The Album’ 26 Years Ago

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the firm

On this day in Hip-Hop History, New York-based supergroup The Firm released the sole studio album, The Album. As a collaborative effort made by Nas, Aftermath label-head Dr. Dre and marketing genius Steve Stoute, The Album was designed to boost the commercial and mainstream appeal of four of New York’s most prolific emcees: Nas, Foxy Brown, AZ, and Cormega (unfortunately Cormega and the rest of those involved never saw eye-to-eye and he was swiftly replaced by Queensbridge Nature prior to finishing The Album).

Around the time of the group’s formation, its future members were at a pivotal moment in their careers. Nas, who had recently released his prolific debut Illmatic, was not receiving his due respect as one of the greatest active rappers of the time. Of course, he was in great standing with the actual rap community (he was the first non-Wu Tang member to appear on a Wu-Tang track), his fame among the public was disproportional. This disparity forced Nas to hire Stoute as his manager in an attempt to change his commercial approach.

Ironically, this was the second collaborative project of East Coast and West Coast artists involved in the coastal beef of that era. The first being the late Tupac Shakur and the Boot Camp Clik’s 1996 One Nation project.

Simultaneously, Foxy Brown, AZ, and Cormega were all experience a momentous rise in success. Foxy Brown’s work from 1995 with Jay-Z’s hit “Ain’t No Nig*a” in 1996 lead to her becoming one of the most coveted female emcees in New York. Her popularity in the industry led to a bidding war for her contract, won by Def Jam Recordings. AZ was coming off the success of his 1995 debut LP Doe or Die and Cormega was just released from serving a bid in prison. It would seem that the stars had aligned so that this project could take place.

This first time the quartet appeared on a single was Nas’ “Affirmative Action” on his sophomore LP It Was Written. The group’s chemistry and the single’s critical and commercial success made coming together as a supergroup a no-brainer for all involved.

Both the group’s name and the title of the album are an illustration of the 1991 John Grisham legal-thriller novel The Firm. 

Commercially, the endeavor as a whole was a mass success. The Album debuted at #1 on both the Billboard 200 chart and Top R&B/Hip Hop chart. It sold 147,000 copies in its first week and went on to sell 925,000 in the United States. The record also had international success charting in Canada (where it sold 50,000 units), France, and the Netherlands.

The post Today in Hip-Hop History: The Firm Released ‘The Album’ 26 Years Ago first appeared on The Source.

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Marlon Wayans Alleges Racism + Unfair Prosecution Over Luggage Dispute

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Marlon Wayans Calls Out Game of Thrones for Lack of Diversity

Actor and comedian Marlon Wayans is at the center of a legal battle following a luggage dispute that unfolded in June. Wayans claims that he is being unfairly prosecuted for disturbing the peace in connection with the incident, which he alleges was tainted by racial bias.

The dispute in question occurred at Denver’s airport when Wayans attempted to board a United Airlines flight bound for Kansas City with three bags. According to court documents filed by Wayans’ attorneys, a United Airlines gate agent initially informed him that he could not board the flight with three bags, which was against airline policy. In response, Wayans consolidated his luggage into two bags to comply with the airline’s rules.

However, a situation escalated when the gate agent seemingly tried to physically block Wayans from boarding the flight even after he had adhered to the luggage policy. Despite this, Wayans proceeded to board the plane, only to be asked to disembark before the flight departed.

The crux of Wayans’ complaint is that while he was rearranging his luggage, the gate agent allowed white passengers with three bags to board the flight. The court filing included still photos of surveillance video, highlighting white passengers with yellow arrows pointing to each of their bags. Approximately 140 passengers boarded the flight, with many carrying three bags or oversized bags that were in violation of the airline’s policy.

Wayans’ legal team asserts that this incident was marred by racial discrimination. They claim that the gate agent specifically targeted Wayans due to his race, allowing white passengers to board with an identical number of bags and that this discrimination continued as Denver prosecutors pursued charges against Wayans. By doing so, they argue, they are perpetuating racial discrimination and denying him equal protection under the law.

In a statement from Wayans’ lawyers, they expressed their concern about the situation, stating, “The City of Denver’s position is an affront to constitutional and social equity principles.” The case not only highlights the ongoing issues surrounding racial profiling but also raises questions about the responsibility of authorities to ensure that equal protection is upheld for all individuals, regardless of their race.

As Marlon Wayans continues to fight these charges, this case draws attention to the broader issues surrounding racial bias and the importance of addressing them in all aspects of life, including law enforcement and the justice system.

Watch below. Thoughts?

The post Marlon Wayans Alleges Racism + Unfair Prosecution Over Luggage Dispute first appeared on The Source.

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Cardi B Takes a Step Towards Resolving Civil Assault Legal Feud

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cardi b cries

Rapper and Grammy-winning artist Cardi B, is closer to resolving a longstanding legal dispute with a female security guard who accused her of assault in 2018. Reports confirm that the trial, initially scheduled for November 14, 2023, has been postponed, offering the parties an opportunity to seek resolution through mediation.

Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar, known as Cardi B in the music industry, filed the necessary legal documents in Los Angeles on October 12, 2023. In these documents, she informed the court that both parties have agreed to defer the trial until February 1, 2024, to allow time for mediated discussions aimed at reaching an amicable settlement.

The mediation will be overseen by John W. Shaw, Esq., an experienced mediator affiliated with Shaw Mediations. This move exemplifies Cardi B’s determination to resolve this matter behind closed doors, away from the public spotlight. By opting for mediation, Cardi B aims to facilitate an open dialogue with her accuser, hoping to find common ground and bring an end to the years-long legal feud.

Mediation is widely recognized as a constructive approach to resolving disputes, offering both parties the opportunity to express their concerns and engage in productive negotiations, guided by an impartial mediator. In contrast to a courtroom trial, this alternative dispute resolution process encourages cooperation and compromise.

The scheduled mediation for December 2023 offers hope for an outcome that is satisfactory for all parties involved, signaling the potential end of a prominent legal battle.

The public watches with anticipation as Cardi B progresses towards finding resolution, in a world where celebrity controversies often dominate headlines. Her choice to pursue mediation serves as a reminder that even in high-profile cases, there is always room for growth, reconciliation, and a pursuit of peaceful resolutions.

The post Cardi B Takes a Step Towards Resolving Civil Assault Legal Feud first appeared on The Source.

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Lil Durk Releases Two Remixes Of “All My Life” Featuring Stray Kids And Burna Boy

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Lil Durk reups, recharges, and reignites his #1 platinum smash “All My Life” with a pair of massive Remixes now featuring Stray Kids and Burna Boy, respectively. Listen to “All My Life (Remixes)” HERE.

With these Remixes, he adds another dimension to this 2023 anthem. Award-winning and chart-dominating K-Pop juggernaut Stray Kids bring Durk’s words to life as each member delivers his own interpretation of the story in either English or Korean. Meanwhile, Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy infuses “All My Life” with his signature style and spirit. Meanwhile, African Giant Burna Boy infuses “All My Life” with his signature Afro-fusion that has made him a global phenomenon.

The original “All My Life” [feat. J. Cole] picked up a platinum certification, soared to #2 on the Billboard Hot 100, reeled in over half-a-billion streams in addition to 124 million YouTube views on the music video, and reached #1 at Rhythm and Urban Radio for consecutive weeks. Not to mention, it vaulted to #1 on the Billboard Rhythmic Chart and at Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs Chart.

In a recent feature, Billboard pegged “All My Life” among “GRAMMYS 2024 BIG FOUR PREDICTIONS” as a contender for “Record of the Year” and “Song of the Year,” going on to proclaim, “The melodic chorus on this hip-hop smash gives it broad-based appeal.” Rolling Stone posited it might be up for “Best Rap Song” or “Song of the Year,” professing, “Lil Durk’s retro-leaning sing-song collaboration with J. Cole feels like a contender.”

It’s just the beginning though.

Lil Durk released his critically acclaimed blockbuster album, Almost Healed , earlier this year. Nearing half-a-billion streams, Almost Healed, marked his fourth consecutive Top 3 debut on the Billboard 200 and third straight #1 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums Chart.

The post Lil Durk Releases Two Remixes Of “All My Life” Featuring Stray Kids And Burna Boy first appeared on The Source.

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Lola Brooke Teams with French Montana for “Pit Stop” Single and Music Video

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https://youtu.be/aNHHA5XVcCc

Lola Brooke is back in the spotlight with a bang as she teams up with the 3x Grammy-nominated, Diamond-certified recording artist French Montana for her latest hit, “Pit Stop,” released today through Team Eighty Productions/Arista Records.

This bass-heavy release packs an unruly club-banging punch as Lola and French take center stage with energetic bars and charismatic rawness. The official music video, released alongside the new song, vividly captures the dynamic essence of “Pit Stop,” showcasing the vibrant spirit of New York’s boroughs with style and ferocity.

Lola Brooke’s collaboration with French Montana promises to be a blockbuster hit, drawing on the talents of these two exceptional artists. “Pit Stop” is set to make waves in the music scene and add another accolade to their already impressive careers. Fans can now experience the track and its accompanying music video, a testament to the power and diversity of the New York music scene.

The post Lola Brooke Teams with French Montana for “Pit Stop” Single and Music Video first appeared on The Source.

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City Girls Drop Highly-Anticipated Third Album, ‘RAW’

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City Girls Unveil Cover Art for Upcoming Album 'RAW'

The City Girls have unleashed their eagerly awaited third full-length album, RAW, released through Quality Control Music/Motown. This marks the duo’s third studio album three years after their last release. The album features a lineup of notable artists, including Kim Petras, Lil Durk, Muni Long, Juicy J, and Usher. JT and Yung Miami, the Miami-raised City Girls, describe their latest album as “serious a–, freestylin’ cypher a–rap” and “scammin’, trickin’ p—y rap.”

With “RAW,” the City Girls offer their audience a fresh single, “Flashy,” featuring Grammy-winning pop sensation Kim Petras. This track marks their first collaboration with the acclaimed pop star. JT and Yung Miami continue to personify the ultimate alter-ego for city girls and city boys worldwide, expressing in their lyrics what others often wish they could say.

You can hear the album below.

The post City Girls Drop Highly-Anticipated Third Album, ‘RAW’ first appeared on The Source.

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Feds Seize Equipment From iHeart Offices Amid DJ Envy Real Estate Fraud Investigation

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During the same week that DJ Envy’s former business partner Cesar Pina was arrested for scamming investors out of millions of dollars in an alleged real estate Ponzi scheme, federal agents seize equipment from DJ Envy’s place of business in NYC as a part of the investigation.

On Wednesday(October 18), federal agents raided the iHeart offices and confiscated equipment from where The Breakfast Club morning show is aired, according to an NBC investigative reporter.

“An inside source tells us that the iHeartRadio offices were visited by the feds, who took out electronic equipment as part of this investigation,” said investigative reporter Sarah Wallace.

Earlier this week, New Jersey property investor and “Flipping NJ” founder Cesar Pina was arrested for wire fraud and released on a $1 million secured bond along with electronic ankle monitoring after appearing in a Newark federal court.

Documents reveal that the radio host and his former partner are being investigated for seminars they hed across the country, in which they are accused of using to lure in and defraud potential investors. Envy is being accused of using his social media reach to attract people with high investment returns, but ultimately milking investors out of millions of dollars.

Envy addressed the fraud allegartions on air, saying, “Let me explain some things…so Cesar and myself did seminars. Now, the reason I did these seminars is because I wanted to uplift my community. I wanted to teach my community about real estate. Things that I didn’t know when I was buying my first home. So I did these seminars and brought industry professionals to all these seminars, whether it was real estate agents from different markets, contractors, money lenders. I even brought Auction.com to actually show people how to purchase houses online.”

He continued, “Now Cesar, if he took money, I wasn’t privy to it nor did I even know. But I do understand how people feel if they did give him money because I gave him a lot of money that I didn’t see a dollar of return.”

TheSource.com will update this news as more details develop in this multi-faceted story.

The post Feds Seize Equipment From iHeart Offices Amid DJ Envy Real Estate Fraud Investigation first appeared on The Source.

The post Feds Seize Equipment From iHeart Offices Amid DJ Envy Real Estate Fraud Investigation appeared first on The Source.

[WATCH] Offset Says More Women Visited Him Behind Bars After Drake Appeared On ‘Versace’ Remix

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There is no doubt that Migos’ “Versace” single was the smash hit tht pushed them into the category of A-list celebrities, but Offset wasn’t able to fully enjoy the success of the trio’s first single because he was incarcerated at the time of its release. In an exclusive interview on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, Offset shared the experience of the moment he realized that Migos had become household names.

“At the time, I was in jail when my song [‘Versace’] blew up, and then Drake hopped on the remix,” Offset explained. “One day, I was in my jail cell, it was like 6 in the morning during count, and the guard was singing my song as he was doing the count.” He added, “I was in there, not really telling people what’s happening because I didn’t really know. I just knew something was happening, but my mind was all over the place. The guard was doing the count, singing, ‘Versace, Versace, Versace.’ He walked off, still singing the song, and I was like, ‘What the heck?’”

Even though Offset was behind bars, he says that people began treating him like a celebrity after Versace. “I had to sit down for another few months, but I had this visitation thing… I could have six visits in one day, 30 minutes each. At first, it was just my mom visiting me every week, but suddenly, everything changed. I got six visits, back-to-back. That’s when I realized, ‘Oh, wow, this is crazy.’ That was my first taste of it.”

Check out the Call Her Daddy interview HERE

The post [WATCH] Offset Says More Women Visited Him Behind Bars After Drake Appeared On ‘Versace’ Remix first appeared on The Source.

The post [WATCH] Offset Says More Women Visited Him Behind Bars After Drake Appeared On ‘Versace’ Remix appeared first on The Source.

Megan Thee Stallion and 1501 Certified Entertainment Reach Settlement Agreement

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Megan Thee Stallion Says Watch 'Spooky Season' for New Music

Megan Thee Stallion and 1501 Certified Entertainment have decided to “amicably” separate. The agreement comes with a settlement.

The two entities released a statement to Rolling Stone:

“Megan Thee Stallion and 1501 Certified Entertainment are pleased to announce that they have mutually reached a confidential settlement to resolve their legal differences. As part of the arrangement, both parties have agreed to amicably part ways. Both Megan and 1501 are pleased to put this matter behind them and move forward with the next chapter of their respective businesses. All of us at 1501 wish Megan the very best in her life and career.”

There were no details of the settlement available. 1501 Certified Entertainment founder Carl Crawford added, “All of us at 1501 wish Megan the very best in her life and career.”

Megan Thee Stallion is ready to unleash her new music. Following appearing on “Bongos” with Cardi B, Hot Girl Meg is letting rap fans know that “Act One” is on the way.

After a surreal moment onstage with Beyonce and a hint at a collaboration with the Queen Bey, Megan Thee Stallion is back in the news. The Houston rapper has been in an ongoing legal battle over a deal she signed at the beginning of her career. Meg has been fighting to get out of her contact with Carl Crawford’s 1501 Certified Entertainment for three years with a vicious back and forth between her and the labelhead.

Megan is calling on her fans asking for their support for her new album after she reveals that she paid for it out of her own pocket.

Watch her video below.

The post Megan Thee Stallion and 1501 Certified Entertainment Reach Settlement Agreement first appeared on The Source.

The post Megan Thee Stallion and 1501 Certified Entertainment Reach Settlement Agreement appeared first on The Source.