Chris Tucker is cursing again in his stand up. Ya’ll knew that? Ha, the “Rush Hour” star had people in stitches during a recent standup routine. He had a lot of fun over the confusion many had between him and the other Chris, Rock that is, following the wildly infamous Will Smith slap seen around the world at the 2022 Oscars.
Okay, so Tucker began by laughing off his frustration over the mix-up. He said: “Let me tell you why I’m pissed off about that slap with Will Smith and Chris Rock. They mixed me up in it. You know? Because we’re Chris’, they thought I got slapped. People were calling my mom’s phone every night asking, ‘Is Chris okay? I heard he got the sh”t slapped out of him.’ ‘Chris is right here rewinding the tape so I can see the slap. Now stop starting rumors.’”
Get this, then the “Jackie Brown” star joked about how huge the incident was and discussed around the world. He mocked languages spoken in Tokyo, Puerto Rico, and Africa. Listen, it was all in fun and he was equally disrespectful.
Tucker even speculated that Rock must have known what was coming. We’re laughing just saying that … “Black people have a sixth sense. If somebody walks up on us unannounced, the first thing we do — we be like ‘hey, what’s up, what you want?’” He added, “Y’all should’ve known that wasn’t me because that show would’ve been over right then and there. Will Smith would not have been walking off stage fixing his jacket on my a””.”
Tucker had way more fun by playfully demonstrating how he would have responded if he were in Rock’s place. He suggesting the encounter with Smith would have ended very differently. If you imagine the insinuation.
Glad to see Chris Tucker still touring and having fun with the audience even if it’s at the expense of the other Chris.
Bill Clinton’s strategist, Jim Carville once said, “it’s the economy stupid.” That’s a thing these days and many of us have heard it before. Now, Vice President Kamala Harris is on that type of time! She is taking the other side and her critics to task with an economic plan to help Americans, everywhere.
On Friday (August 16) at a North Carolina rally, wearing Tar Heel blue no less, VP Harris unveiled an expansive economic plan during her campaign stop in Raleigh. She focused on issues like high grocery bills, housing costs, and the challenges of raising a family. This event, held at Wake Tech Community College’s northern campus, was attended by around 100 people.
In her strong speech, Harris emphasized the strength of the U.S. economy under the Biden administration, citing the creation of millions of jobs and a drop in annual inflation below 3% for the first time in three years.
However, she acknowledged that many Americans are still struggling with high costs and economic insecurity:
“Costs are still too high. And on a deeper level, for too many people, no matter how much they work, it feels so hard just to be able to get ahead,” Harris said. She promised to focus on creating opportunities for the middle class, aiming to enhance their economic security, stability, and dignity.
Harris’s more on the plan, which she termed “an opportunity economy”
Banning price gouging on food and groceries.
Providing $25,000 in down payment assistance to first-time homebuyers who have paid rent on time for at least two years.
Offering tax incentives to homebuilders who construct starter homes for first-time buyers.
Expanding tax incentives to encourage the construction of affordable rental housing.
Restoring the $3,600 child tax credit, which was credited with reducing child poverty when it was part of the American Rescue Plan but expired in 2021. Harris also proposes up to $6,000 in tax relief for middle- and low-income families when they have a new baby.
Expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit to reduce taxes by up to $1,500 for low-income workers without children.
Most of her proposals would of course require Congressional approval.
While, addressing the crowd, Harris pointed out that food prices rose during the pandemic due to supply chain disruptions, but noted, “our supply chains have improved and prices are still too high.” She highlighted her experience as California’s attorney general, where she secured over $1 billion for consumers by taking action against companies engaged in price gouging. “As president, I will go after the bad actors,” Harris vowed.
In contrast, Trump, who’s been busy with a couple rambling “press conferences” blamed Harris for inflation and promised an economic boom if re-elected, proposing tariffs of up to 20% on imported goods. Harris criticized this plan, warning that it would lead to higher prices on essential items, referring to it as “a Trump tax on gas, a Trump tax on food, a Trump tax on clothing, a Trump tax on over-the-counter medication.” She estimated that Trump’s plan would cost a typical family $3,900 a year.
The NC rally marked a shift in Harris’s usual campaign messaging, with the audience enthusiastically chanting, “We’re not going back,” even though she omitted some of her usual lines. This visit was her 16th to North Carolina during her vice presidency. Earlier in the week, Harris also appeared at a community college in Maryland alongside President Joe Biden, where they discussed efforts to negotiate lower prescription drug prices.
Bill Clinton’s strategist, Jim Carville once said, “it’s the economy stupid.” That’s a thing these days and many of us have heard it before. Now, Vice President Kamala Harris is on that type of time! She is taking the other side and her critics to task with an economic plan to help Americans, everywhere.
On Friday (August 16) at a North Carolina rally, wearing Tar Heel blue no less, VP Harris unveiled an expansive economic plan during her campaign stop in Raleigh. She focused on issues like high grocery bills, housing costs, and the challenges of raising a family. This event, held at Wake Tech Community College’s northern campus, was attended by around 100 people.
In her strong speech, Harris emphasized the strength of the U.S. economy under the Biden administration, citing the creation of millions of jobs and a drop in annual inflation below 3% for the first time in three years.
However, she acknowledged that many Americans are still struggling with high costs and economic insecurity:
“Costs are still too high. And on a deeper level, for too many people, no matter how much they work, it feels so hard just to be able to get ahead,” Harris said. She promised to focus on creating opportunities for the middle class, aiming to enhance their economic security, stability, and dignity.
Harris’s more on the plan, which she termed “an opportunity economy”
Banning price gouging on food and groceries.
Providing $25,000 in down payment assistance to first-time homebuyers who have paid rent on time for at least two years.
Offering tax incentives to homebuilders who construct starter homes for first-time buyers.
Expanding tax incentives to encourage the construction of affordable rental housing.
Restoring the $3,600 child tax credit, which was credited with reducing child poverty when it was part of the American Rescue Plan but expired in 2021. Harris also proposes up to $6,000 in tax relief for middle- and low-income families when they have a new baby.
Expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit to reduce taxes by up to $1,500 for low-income workers without children.
Most of her proposals would of course require Congressional approval.
While, addressing the crowd, Harris pointed out that food prices rose during the pandemic due to supply chain disruptions, but noted, “our supply chains have improved and prices are still too high.” She highlighted her experience as California’s attorney general, where she secured over $1 billion for consumers by taking action against companies engaged in price gouging. “As president, I will go after the bad actors,” Harris vowed.
In contrast, Trump, who’s been busy with a couple rambling “press conferences” blamed Harris for inflation and promised an economic boom if re-elected, proposing tariffs of up to 20% on imported goods. Harris criticized this plan, warning that it would lead to higher prices on essential items, referring to it as “a Trump tax on gas, a Trump tax on food, a Trump tax on clothing, a Trump tax on over-the-counter medication.” She estimated that Trump’s plan would cost a typical family $3,900 a year.
The NC rally marked a shift in Harris’s usual campaign messaging, with the audience enthusiastically chanting, “We’re not going back,” even though she omitted some of her usual lines. This visit was her 16th to North Carolina during her vice presidency. Earlier in the week, Harris also appeared at a community college in Maryland alongside President Joe Biden, where they discussed efforts to negotiate lower prescription drug prices.
Trigger warning. The-Dream who faces serious allegations of rape, sex trafficking, and sexual battery in a lawsuit filed by Chanaaz Mangroe, is now moving to dismiss and strike a lot of the lawsuit, as reported by industry media outlet, Variety.
So on Friday (August 16), The-Dream’s team of attorneys argued that the complaint is a “shotgun pleading” that fails to properly link specific allegations to each defendant involved.
Get this, the lawyers are also seeking to dismiss Contra Paris, LLC from the case, citing a lack of personal jurisdiction in California. Additionally, the defense is challenging the inclusion of the rape claim, arguing that it is not recognized as a separate civil cause of action under California law. They are also attempting to strike down 300 paragraphs they claim are “irrelevant” or “intentionally out-of-context.”
Desirée F. Moore, The-Dream’s attorney, stated, “The Complaint is a textbook example of a ‘shotgun pleading’ and must be dismissed in its entirety for failing to attribute specific factual allegations to each defendant. Plaintiff’s Complaint contains dozens of allegations that are utterly irrelevant to her sexual battery and sex trafficking claims and are, instead, designed solely to smear Diamant’s name and reputation.”
ICYMI, the lawsuit was initially filed by Chanaaz Mangroe on June 4 under California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act. Mangroe, who claimed to have met The-Dream in early 2015, alleged that she was coerced into having sex with him on multiple occasions. She stated that The-Dream promised her a level of fame comparable to Beyoncé or Rihanna, but that their relationship turned abusive.
“What Dream did to me made it impossible to live the life I envisioned for myself and pursue my goals as a singer and songwriter,” Mangroe said in a statement. “Ultimately, my silence has become too painful, and I realized that I need to tell my story to heal. I hope that doing so will also help others and prevent future horrific abuse.”
The-Dream has denied all allegations: “I oppose all forms of harassment and have always strived to help people realize their career goals. As someone committed to making a positive impact on my fellow artists and the world at large, I am deeply offended and saddened by these allegations.”
On this day in 1999, Mobb Deep released their fourth LP, Murda Muzik. Coming after a three-year pause and numerous release date push-backs, Murda Muzik did everything but disappoint. Peaking at #3 on the Billboard 200 chart and shipping 1,000,000 copies in the year of its release prove that, commercially this album was a success. The album also earned the #6 spot on the Canadian album charts.
Aside from its monetary success, the album was a hit. During a time in rap when Diddy and Master P were calling the shots, a project of this caliber came with much surprise and admiration. Havoc and Prodigy‘s stark realism and imagery depicting the darker side of the streets brought a necessary contrast to a game flooded with gold watch/diamond chain rap. Havoc’s production style, although the majority unchanged from his previous work, was also a shift away from the norm of the ’99 to 2000. This album has most definitely earned its respect and acclaim.
Music executive L.A. Reid’s attempt to dismiss a sexual assault lawsuit filed against him by former Arista Records employee Drew Dixon has been denied. On Tuesday, August 13, Judge Valerie Caproni of the Southern District of New York ruled that Dixon’s lawsuit against Reid would proceed, rejecting his motions to dismiss several of the claims.
Dixon, who worked at Arista Records under Reid’s leadership around 20 years ago, accused the veteran music executive of sexually assaulting her twice during her tenure at the label. Her lawsuit alleges sexual battery and assault, false imprisonment, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and a violation of the New York City Gender Motivated Violence Act.
Reid sought to have the case dismissed on several grounds, including the statute of limitations and issues related to the venue where the case was filed. However, Judge Caproni found that the claims of false imprisonment and intentional infliction of emotional distress were not barred by the statute of limitations under the New York Adult Survivors Act. This Act, which was passed in 2022, allows survivors of sexual assault to file lawsuits even if the statutory period for such claims has expired.
The judge also ruled that the events described in Dixon’s complaint had a substantial connection to the Southern District of New York, affirming that the venue where the lawsuit was filed was appropriate.
Drew Dixon’s lawsuit brings to light allegations that have lingered in the shadows of the music industry for decades. Her claims against L.A. Reid, one of the most influential figures in the business, have drawn significant attention, particularly in light of the broader #MeToo movement that has swept through various industries, including entertainment.
Dixon has been vocal about her experiences with sexual harassment and assault within the music industry. Her allegations against Reid are part of a larger narrative that she has shared publicly, detailing the challenges and trauma she faced while working in the male-dominated music business.
The case now moves forward, as Judge Caproni’s ruling ensures that Dixon’s claims will be heard in court. This development marks a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about accountability and justice within the music industry, as high-profile figures like Reid are increasingly being called to answer for past actions.
Reid, who has had a storied career in the music industry, founding LaFace Records and leading major labels like Arista Records and Epic Records, has not publicly commented on the lawsuit following this latest ruling. As the case progresses, it is likely to continue drawing attention to issues of sexual harassment and assault in the workplace.
The Source had an opportunity to attend the New York City screening of Lionsgate’s ‘1992’, directed by Ariel Vromen, hosted by Chuck Creekmur. This film is a captivating, high-energy drama that immerses viewers in the chaos of the 1992 Los Angeles riots. This action-packed film masterfully weaves together themes of family and survival, delivering a story that’s both thrilling and emotionally resonant.
At the heart of ‘1992’ is Mercer, played by Tyrese Gibson, a shopkeeper determined to rebuild his life and set a positive example for his son amidst the crumbling streets of Los Angeles. As the city spirals into turmoil, Mercer faces intense personal challenges, all while trying to restore a fractured relationship with his son. Gibson’s performance is raw and authentic, portraying a man torn between duty, fear, and hope. His character’s journey strikes a deeply emotional chord as he strives to hold onto his humanity and fatherhood despite the chaos that surrounds him.
Ray Liotta and Scott Eastwood add even more depth to the film as a father-son duo embroiled in a dangerous heist, planned right where Mercer works. Their troubled relationship mirrors Mercer’s own struggles, creating a fascinating parallel that drives the tension throughout the film. Liotta delivers one of his signature hard-edged performances, while Eastwood perfectly captures the vulnerability and resentment of a young man at odds with his father.
However, it’s Christopher A’mmanuel who proves to be the hidden gem of this ensemble cast. His portrayal of Mercer’s son is both heart-wrenching and powerful, bringing innocence to the chaos and contributing to the film’s emotional weight.
Director Ariel Vromen skillfully balances the film’s emotional core with breathtaking action sequences. The city of Los Angeles becomes a character in itself, with the streets crackling with tension, violence, and unrest. The combination of intense standoffs, fiery explosions, and gritty hand-to-hand combat scenes gives ‘1992’ its pulse-pounding rhythm.
But beyond the explosions and gunfire, ‘1992’ excels at exploring the complicated dynamics between fathers and sons. Both Mercer and the heist team’s leader struggle with what it means to be a man and a father in a world that seems to be falling apart. The film asks difficult questions about legacy, racism, responsibility, and survival, while still keeping the audience on the edge of their seats with adrenaline-fueled moments.
Tyrese, Katherine Nunez and Lynn Hobson
‘1992’ is an exhilarating, emotionally charged film that doesn’t shy away from the realities of race, fatherhood, and violence in America. Tyrese Gibson shines in a role that brings depth and humanity to the action genre, while Vromen’s direction is nothing short of suspenseful. Whether you’re drawn in by the action or the emotional stakes, ‘1992’ is a must-watch that stands out as a modern-day thriller with heart.
Catch it on Lionsgate and prepare for a gripping journey into one of the most pivotal moments in LA’s history, where the personal and the political collide in an unforgettable way.
Legendary artist and Wu-Tang Clan visionary RZA has announced the release of the title track of his highly anticipated classical composition, A Ballet Through Mud. This original orchestration, produced in collaboration with Platoon and 36 Chambers, is set to become available on all streaming platforms on August 30th, marking a significant departure from RZA’s storied hip-hop roots into the realm of classical music.
“A Ballet Through Mud” is not just an album; it’s a deeply personal coming-of-age story that traverses the complexities of love, friendship, and personal growth. Originally performed by the Colorado Symphony, the composition weaves an emotional tapestry that resonates with both the highs and lows of life’s journey.
RZA found inspiration for this project during the global pandemic. While in lockdown, he stumbled upon old lyrical notebooks he had filled as a teenager. These early musings, brimming with raw emotion and youthful insight, sparked the creation of what would become his first classical album. The project grew into a ballet, which was brought to life on stage in 2023.
The album features characters named after Greek musical scales, echoing RZA’s own journey from the project housing of Staten Island to the refined concert halls where this work now resides. The narrative, filled with themes of love, loss, and exploration, is also infused with RZA’s deep philosophical reflections, drawing heavily from his journey into Chan Buddhism. The result is a piece that oscillates between idealism and orchestration while remaining grounded in its universal appeal.
“I have been composing my whole life, although I didn’t know initially that was what I was doing,” RZA shared. “The inspiration for ‘A Ballet Through Mud’ comes from my earliest creative output as a teenager, but its themes are universal—love, exploration, and adventure. I hope people use it to score their own lives, to transform a drive to the grocery store or sharing a meal with loved ones into something magical, to be inspired and let their imaginations take them into a different chamber, if only for a moment.”
The album’s tracklist is a journey in itself:
Aeolian Beauty
Clear Sky After Storm
A Ballet Through Mud
Winds From The West
Divine Intervention
Freedom of Movement
Soft Footsteps
Good Night 1st Movement
The Night Dances When You Least Expect It
Moving Meditation
The Lotus Arrives
Each track invites the listener to explore different emotional landscapes, while the title track, “A Ballet Through Mud,”encapsulates the essence of the album’s narrative—finding beauty and growth even in the most challenging of circumstances.
The composition, produced and composed by RZA, was performed by the Colorado Symphony under the baton of conductor Christopher Dragon. The album was mixed and mastered by Pietro Rossi, with additional orchestration provided by Ming-Hsueh Lin, Scott O’Neil, Tan Onwimon, and Joseph Colmenero. The John Lennon Educational Tour Bus contributed the Dolby Atmos Mix, ensuring a rich, immersive listening experience. The original performance was choreographed by Yusha-Marie Sorzano, with intimacy direction by Sarah Lozoff.
This project marks RZA’s first collaboration with Platoon, and it is a testament to his versatility as an artist. The full album, A Ballet Through Mud, will be officially available to stream on August 30th via Platoon.
As RZA continues to break boundaries and redefine genres, A Ballet Through Mud stands as a powerful testament to his creative evolution—a piece that invites listeners to embark on their own journey through life’s trials and triumphs, guided by the transformative power of music.
In an industry where authenticity and relatability are paramount, TruLight Films Productions has emerged as a dynamic force, blazing a trail in the world of independent urban cinema. Based in New York, this urban-independent, hip-hop-infused film company has rapidly built a reputation for delivering hard-hitting, culturally resonant stories. With a growing catalog of critically acclaimed films, TruLight Films is not just making movies—they’re shifting the landscape of urban entertainment and positioning themselves as a dominant force in the world of independent film.
Founded five years ago, TruLight Films has quickly become known for its ability to attract top-tier talent from across the entertainment industry. Their films feature a star-studded lineup of actors, influencers, and hip-hop icons. Notable projects include “The Pale White Horse” starring Julito McCullum, Saigon, and Meeko, and “Will You Marry Me” featuring Jamal Woolard, Nya Lee, and Katherine Nunez, both of which are available for streaming on Tubi. Upcoming releases like “Glo” and “Trapped in Temptation” further cement TruLight Films’ dedication to showcasing authentic urban narratives and putting a spotlight on the stories often overlooked by mainstream Hollywood.
At the helm of this cinematic powerhouse is Adrian “Tru” Toscano, the creative visionary and driving force behind TruLight Films. Born and raised in Park Slope, Brooklyn, Tru’s journey into filmmaking began with his service in the U.S. military and later transitioned into music, managing his brother, recording artist Matty Tosca. After picking up a camera in 2016, Tru’s relentless drive and passion quickly propelled him into the spotlight, shooting music videos for some of hip-hop’s biggest names, including Fetty Wap, Smoove L, 6ix 9ine, Rich the Kid, and Lady Luck. His work behind the camera quickly became a visual representation of urban music, infusing his distinct style into the visual elements of hip-hop culture.
But Tru’s ambitions extended far beyond the music industry. His talents as a videographer, director, and editor have allowed him to step into the world of film, creating projects that blend the raw energy of hip-hop with the storytelling depth of urban life. His directorial debut came with the feature films “Hard Laughter” and “Sin”, followed by other notable projects such as “Witness For The Defense” and “Born to Box”. Tru’s style of storytelling—marked by gritty realism, emotional complexity, and a deep connection to urban culture—has become his signature, drawing viewers into narratives that are both compelling and thought-provoking.
In 2022, TruLight Films released the feature films “The Throne” and “Everybody Dies,” distributed by Homestead Entertainment and Dame Dash Studios, further proving the company’s ability to deliver high-quality urban cinema. These projects showcase Tru’s evolution as a filmmaker, blending his early experiences in the hip-hop scene with his ever-growing expertise in the film industry.
Tru’s work speaks to the larger narrative of urban culture and the struggles and triumphs that define it. With each project, he brings fresh perspectives and voices to the screen, amplifying stories that reflect the realities of urban life while resonating with audiences from all walks of life. Whether it’s capturing the raw emotion of a hip-hop track or directing an intense scene in one of his films, Tru’s vision is clear: to create films that leave an impact, both visually and emotionally.
As TruLight Films continues to rise, the company’s growing fan base is a testament to its influence. Their Facebook group, “Best of the Best Tubi Movies,” with over 67.6K members, serves as a hub for avid fans who have come to expect nothing but excellence from the company’s releases.
With a slate of upcoming projects, including “Glo” and “Heartbreak and Homicide,” featuring standout talents like Crystal the Doll, Kaamel Hasaun, and DeJuan Ford, TruLight Films is poised to continue its meteoric rise in the world of independent cinema. As they push the boundaries of urban filmmaking, their influence only grows, making them a force to be reckoned with and cementing their place as the “Urban Kings of Independent Films.”
TruLight Films is more than just a film company; it’s a movement. Under the leadership of Adrian “Tru” Toscano, along with CFO Scott Carlino and Producer Luc Stephen, the company is dedicated to producing films that are not only entertaining but also meaningful. Their dedication to authenticity, coupled with Tru’s background in hip-hop, has allowed them to carve out a unique niche in the film industry, one that continues to grow with each release.
For those looking to experience urban cinema at its finest, TruLight Films is the company to watch. Their films don’t just entertain—they reflect the heartbeat of urban culture, resonating with viewers on a deeply personal level. As they continue to push the envelope, TruLight Films is poised to lead the charge in the next generation of independent urban cinema.
Happy Friday ya’ll. Before you head into your weekend, Tank wants you to ponder his latest hot take.
The R&B singer sparked controversy, yet again, by reigniting an interesting debate over whether the reigning King of R&B Chris Brown is in fact more talented than the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson.
It’s not too crazy of a thought. Chris is that guy. But I understand if you think MJ was, well, the GOAT.
Okay, during a recent appearance on The Stephen A. Smith Show, the Grammy-nominated artist ardently argued that Chris Brown has surpassed the legendary King of Pop in talent and versatility. See, right there. The Stephen A. Smith Show. Now we get it.
Here’s the statement:
”Chris Brown is, in fact, better than Michael Jackson.”
Tank asserted this, surprising sports commentator Stephen A. Smith. But was he?
The chat quickly turned into a lively debate, with Smith expressing his admiration for Jackson and skepticism about Tank’s viewpoint. As many of us have. Skepticism.
“Tank! Do you understand what you’re saying, my man?” Smith asked incredulously. “I mean, you’re admired, you’re revered, you’re associated with music, my brother. Everybody loves and respects you.”
Tank a strong willed brother, remained unwavering in his belief, using a sports metaphor to elaborate on his perspective. He compared Chris Brown to LeBron James, portraying him as the evolution of music icons like Michael Jackson and Usher. “If there was Magic Johnson, now there is LeBron James,” Tank explained. “We talk about Chris Brown, we’re talking about the evolution of Michael Jackson. The evolution of Usher. The evolution of me. The evolution of Ginuwine. That is what this kid is.”
