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Sonya Massey’s Killer Sean Grayson Should Have Never Been A Cop: 11 Reasons Why

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The jarring slaying of Sonya Massey has stunned the world and placed Sean Grayson in infamy. The former Sangamon County Deputy shot and killed Massey in her Macomb, Illinois, home as she was unarmed and crouching on the ground in fear. Massey called the police to her residence, believing there may have been a prowler on her property, but instead, Grayson escalated the situation. He told Massey to check on a pot boiling on her stove because they didn’t want to risk a fire. As she did as he asked, words were exchanged, resulting in Massey telling Grayson, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.” He then pulled his weapon and threatened to shoot her in the face.

Massey said, “I’m sorry,” as she bent down to the ground with her arms in the air. Grayson shot her three times, killing the 36-year-old mother instantly. The body camera footage was released and sent shockwaves on social media. Protests have erupted, and calls for justice have been echoed from one coast to the other. Grayson has been removed from his position, arrested, and charged with three counts of first-degree murder, among others.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JULY 28: Demonstrators with signs protest the killing of Sonya Massey by a Springfield, Illinois sheriff’s deputy, in Washington Square Park on July 28, 2024 in New York City. Massey was shot at home in the head by Sean Grayson, a Sangamon County, Illinois deputy after she called the police to report a possible prowler. Grayson has been arrested, sparking protests around the country demanding justice for Massey’s death. (Photo by John Lamparski/Getty Images)

However, this tragedy is an unfortunate cap in Grayson’s long line of transgressions. His career and personal life are riddled with controversy. These indiscretions show a man who never should have had a badge, illuminating how the system failed those he was hired to “protect and serve.” Within the last four years, Grayson bounced around six police departments in central Illinois. His supervisors detailed concerns over his behavior, but Grayson flew under the radar despite the warning signs. Here are 11 reasons why Sean Grayson should never have been an officer of the law.

1. “Extreme Mental Cruelty” Was Cited In Divorce Papers

According to Newsweek, Sean Grayson and Alexia Pitchford, a nail technician, separated in May 2015. The outlet stated the divorce documents reportedly show that Grayson was “cited over ‘extreme and repeated mental cruelty’ without cause or provocation.” The paperwork didn’t detail specifics of what that meant. Further, in the divorce, Pitchford “received possession of several household items during the split, including a table, a vacuum and a moped.” She dropped “Grayson” from her name, and both parties walked away without having to pay the other.

2. He Was Corrected For Inaccurately Filing A Report

An incident in 2022 found Grayson on the wrong side of his supervisors. While working for the Logan County Sheriff’s Department, CNN reported that on September 12 of that year, Grayson was on patrol in Lincoln, Illinois. In the early morning hours, Grayson pursued a truck, believing the woman driving it “was acting suspicious” because she didn’t use a turn signal. After turning on his squad car lights and attempting to pull the woman over, she reportedly didn’t stop.

The pursuit continued “at a high rate of speed,” but over his police radio, Grayson’s supervisor told him to end the hunt. Yet, Grayson continued driving at fast speeds, eventually striking a deer on the road. In an interview with his supervisors, the officer was questioned about including incorrect information in the report. He named the wrong street where he first saw the truck make the traffic infraction, something that puzzled Logan County Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Nathan Miller, who reportedly brought out a map to show Grayson it was “impossible” for his statements to be correct.

In an audio recording of the conversation between Miller and Grayson, the latter admitted to the inaccuracy. “The sheriff and I will not tolerate lying and deception, nor should we, or the county or the state or law enforcement partners,” Miller said in the audio. “And you understand this?” Grayson answered, “Yes, I do.” One month later, CNN added that another disciplinary report showed that Grayson “needed ‘report writing training, high stress decision making classes, and needs to read, understand and discuss issued Logan County Sheriff’s Office Policy.’”

“If we can’t trust what you say and what you see, we can’t have you in our uniform,” Miller told Grayson in the recording. He stated, “Others will say you have no integrity, and you’re lying to get to that traffic stop. And I have told you that I have zero tolerance for stretching the law. Because when you have officers that stretch the law, they will get caught, they will get prosecuted.” Miller also expressed unease. “I’m getting goosebumps. This is extremely concerning. Everybody likes you. I gotta be able to trust you. Was this a purposefully done lie?” Grayson said, “No.”

3. He Left The Army Due To A “Serious Offense”

Moreover, Grayson’s concerning behaviors date back to his time in the U.S. military. Reports state he joined the Army in 2014 but was back home in 2016 after being cited for a “serious offense.” It has been learned that while serving, Grayson was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. This would be the first of two DUI arrests. At the time, his address was listed in Kansas, as he was stationed at Fort Riley. Further, a Sangamon County spokesperson admitted that authorities knew about Grayson’s DUIs and were aware that by 2024, they were his sixth job in law enforcement in four years, but hired him anyway.

4. The First DUI In 2015

Multiple outlets have stated that a 21-year-old Grayson was driving a Ford pickup truck in Springfield, Illinois, when a Virden Police officer saw him on the road in 2015. Grayson had his high beam lights on and was seen hitting a curb. Then, when the officer pursued the truck, Grayson continued to hit the curb repeatedly before pulling over. Grayson would admit to the officer that he had one or two beers hours before getting behind the wheel. Soon, that increased to four. The officer noted that Grayson’s “eyes were bloodshot and watery.” There were also claims that Grayson’s breath smelled of alcohol.

During the traffic stop, Grayson reportedly failed multiple field sobriety tests. He was reportedly swaying while attempting to stand on one leg, and he refused the breathalyzer. Meanwhile, as he searched Grayson’s vehicle, the officer found a loaded firearm. Reports state that Grayson did not have a license to carry at the time, but he told police he was in the military, and that’s why he kept it with him. Ammunition was also located in the glove box, along with marijuana that reportedly belonged to Grayson’s passenger. Grayson was arrested at the scene, and his blood alcohol level was later tested. He clocked .117—the legal limit is .08—and pleaded guilty.

5. The Second DUI In 2016

Eleven months later, in July 2016, Grayson was once again facing a DUI. He was driving the same Ford pickup truck in Girard, Illinois, when a Macoupin County sheriff witnessed him making a turn that caused Grayson to drift into the officer’s lane. Grayson was pursued once again, this time crossing into oncoming lanes and almost causing an accident with a semi-tractor. When he was pulled over, Grayson is said to have lit a cigarette and was observed having “glassy and bloodshot” eyes. The officer claimed Grayson was also slurring his speech and struggled to provide his paperwork. When the officer ran Grayson’s Kansas license, it showed it was suspended.

“When Sean stepped out of the truck I observed him to lose his balance and he caught himself by leaning against his back driver’s side door,” the report states. Grayson was asked to do sobriety tests once again, but he confused the officer when he simply answered, “Not true.” The report adds, “I asked Sean what he meant. He again stated, ‘Not true.’ I asked him if he was going to do field sobriety tests for me and he stated ‘no.’”

Grayson was arrested and taken to the station. While there, his behavior reportedly became erratic, and he told officers to “hurry up.” Grayson also was said to have threatened the officer with his 6-foot 3-inch stature, stating he “was too small to be making him mad.”

6. Virden Police Department

From May 2021 to December 2021, Grayson was employed part-time at the Virden Police Department. During his time there, he didn’t receive any disciplinary actions. Yet, the department admitted that they did not have evidence to show they conducted a background check when he was hired. That doesn’t mean one wasn’t completed; it’s just that there were no records of one being done. Dispatch supervisor David Bounds explained why Sean Grayson’s time with the department ended.

“We did not receive a resignation from Mr. Grayson,” Bounds reportedly stated in a letter. Apparently, Grayson got another job and ceased going to work. “He just stopped covering shifts. We were advised that Mr. Grayson left our department to accept a full-time position with the Auburn Police Department. We have no disciplinary actions against Mr. Grayson.”

7. Kincaid Police Department

While working as a part-time officer for the Pawnee Police Department, Sean Grayson also got a job with the Kincaid Police Department. Again, he did not have records of complaints or disciplinary issues, but Grayson was known to have an attitude problem. Mike Lawrence is a member of the Village of Kincaid’s Board of Trustees and had less-than-favorable memories of Grayson.

“I thought he was a loose cannon,” Lawrence said. “He was just arrogant and cocky.” Of the Sonya Massey shooting footage, he added, “I watched the video today actually. It was disgusting [and] it was shocking because it was so wrong.” Lawrence also stated he didn’t know anything about Grayson’s DUI while in the Army.

8. Auburn Police Department

When he applied to the Auburn Police Department in July 2021, Grayson had a letter of recommendation in hand. It was from his former first sergeant, who noted Grayson’s DUI when he enlisted in the Army but also said Grayson didn’t have any issues while serving in the military. However, the department reportedly stated that Grayson described his discharge from the Army as “honorable,” which was a lie. They also shared that they did not look into the discharge, either.

On his application, Grayson was asked if he had ever been “convicted of, charged with or (was) currently waiting trial for any crime greater than that of a minor traffic offense to include driving while intoxicated,” Grayson said, “No, I have only been arrested and charged for DUI.”

9. Supervisors Expressed Concern

Before submitting his letter of resignation from the Logan Police Department in April 2023, Grayson’s supervisors reportedly had concerns regarding his behavior. Grayson was called a “bragger” and deemed “too aggressive.” According to KDSK News out of St. Louis, a supervisor asked Grayson, “How are you still employed by us?” He answered, “I don’t know.” 

In a disciplinary report from Logan, Grayson also faced accusations from a couple he pulled over during a traffic stop. The pair alleged that Grayson was “harassing” them and “abusing his power” during the incident, where arrests were also made. An investigation by the department did not find that Grayson did anything wrong.

10. He Was Called A “Bully”

Further, in another incident that reportedly occurred in 2023, Grayson tried to use his position against a woman. Girard Police Chief Wayman Meredith told CBS that Grayson “pressured him to call child services on a woman outside the home of Grayson’s mother.” Details of the incident are scarce, but Grayson was described as being “steaming mad.” Meredith added, “He was acting like a bully. He was wanting me to do stuff that was not kosher.”

11. Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office Didn’t Know Of His Past

Grayson was working for the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office when he fatally shot Sonya Massey in cold blood. In a statement, the Office said they were not aware of Grayson’s past disciplinary actions. “We were not provided any such information from any of Grayson’s former employers, nor from any crediting agency,” the statement said. They were aware, however, of his DUIs. “We cannot comment on whether the information is accurate, nor why it was not shared by another agency.”

“The Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) reviewed the information, which included the DUI convictions,” the office said. “ILETSB certified Grayson for hire and advised that he had been certified several times in the past despite the history of the DUIs.” Grayson also was said to have passed a background check, drug test, and psychological evaluation. He also participated in and graduated from the 16-week training academy.

“[Sonya Massey] called for help and we failed. We did not do our jobs,” Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell told the public during a meeting. He added, “We failed Sonya. We failed Sonya’s family and friends. We failed the community.”

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Eminem VS. Slim Shady: 5 Takeaways From “The Face-Off”

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Eminem recently appeared on Complex’s YouTube channel to sit down with an AI-generated version of his alter ego, Slim Shady. The conversation comes just a few weeks after Eminem released The Death Of Slim Shady. The album is one that he also billed as a farewell to the character that helped launch him into superstardom. Eminem and Shady touch on a variety of topics, including Em’s post-Slim Shady career and recovery from addiction. They also deliver a number of barbs at the expense of MGK and Caitlyn Jenner. Here are five takeaways from Eminem and Slim Shady’s conversation.

Read More: Eminem Fans Uncover “Genius” Easter Egg In The Death Of Slim Shady Dating Back To 2005

Eminem Still Sees All

One might expect a man in his early 50s to not be as in tune with pop culture as he may have been two decades ago. That is not the case with Eminem. “Every other week on TikTok, Gen Z discovers you on Monday and cancels me on Tuesday,” he tells Slim Shady early in their conversation. Later in the video, Em and Shady reference the infamous Drake and LeBron James “am I letting you down?” conversation from The Shop after Pusha T released “The Story of Adidon.” 

During a talk about fatphobia and body positivity, Em tells Shady that they “cured fatness” with a shot. He warns him that the shot “comes with a side of jealousy,” referring to a line Drake had for Rick Ross on his “Family Matters” diss track. Em also calls Shady “BBL Slizzy,” referring to Metro Boomin’s response to Drake. When the two of them come to a mutual understanding at the end, they do the “look at us, who’d have thought?” meme from Paul Rudd’s Hot Ones interview. Clearly, Em is still very in touch with what’s going on today, even if his new music doesn’t always suggest that.

Read More: Eminem Mocks Drake And LeBron James’ Infamous “The Shop” Clip

He Still Hates Relapse, Kind Of

Eminem and Slim Shady discuss the creative missteps Em took after his first three albums at length. They argue over “FACK,” which fans and Eminem alike agree is one of his worst songs ever. They blame each other for writing the song. Em then mentions that since it’s on his greatest hits album Curtain Call, the song technically went Diamond. From there, they dive into talking about Relapse, Eminem’s 2009 comeback effort. “I was in recovery. I had to relearn how to rap,” Em tells Shady After Shady makes fun of him for rapping in different accents across the album. “And for what it’s worth, there’s an entire generation of people who think that’s a f***ing classic.” Eminem previously disavowed Relapse and has often called it his worst release. It seems that some reappraisals of his first post-rehab work led to him softening his own stance on the album.

He Knows That Some Of His Early-Career Feuds Were Silly

“Let’s talk about the people you dissed. Lyrical titans. Ja Rule, Moby, Fred Durst, who else? Christina Aguilera? Who’s really punching down?” Slim Shady asks Eminem about halfway through the conversation. Those few names are only a handful on a much larger list of people Em took shots at over the course of his career. He has the self-awareness to recognize that, in hindsight, many of those feuds were pointless. Most of those he attacked weren’t rappers, and the rappers he did go back and forth with were not comparable to him. He also addresses his one-sided feud with deceased actor Christopher Reeve, whose paralysis is something that Eminem has made fun of for decades. “Yeah, the guy fell off a horse. He’s dead! He’s been dead for twenty f***ing years! Leave him alone,” Em yells at Shady. The segment was not necessarily an apology for his past feuds. Rather, it was more of a backhanded admission that he could have picked better opponents to feud with.

Read More: Eminem Targets Diddy, Kanye West & Ja Rule On The Death Of Slim Shady


Slim Shady Almost Ruined The Real Eminem’s Life

The conversation with Shady serves primarily as an opportunity for Eminem to reflect on his career, as well as the impact that the persona had on it. “If we’re being honest, the music that you’ve dropped since I bounced ain’t it,” Shady says near the beginning of the conversation. Em immediately points out that once he dropped the Slim Shady character, he released his most commercially successful singles ever. Later on, Em criticizes the fame he achieved as Slim Shady. “I invented you because my life was f***ed up […] But you didn’t fix anything, you actually made s**t worse. You’re the reason I had to self-medicate, and you’re the reason I almost lost my career, my family, and my life.” Of course, Shady responds by ignoring Eminem and opening a can of Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre’s new Gin & Juice drink, to which Em mentions that he’s 16 years sober. It is nice to see Eminem in a better mental space, one where he’s able to poke at various parts of his career.

Read More: Eminem’s Albums, Ranked

Eminem Has Few Regrets

“No one understands how f***ing toxic it is to always be the bad guy,” Slim Shady laments near the end of the video. “Don’t be so hard on yourself, snowflake. We all know you mean well,” Em responds. Eminem has often said that Slim Shady is a character. Fans know that Em is not usually trying to harm people with his words, but that hasn’t stopped him from getting swipes in at everyone he can. By the end of the discussion, after working through everything with Shady, it’s clear that Eminem does not feel much regret at this point in his life. Because of his recovery, he is sober and his relationships with his children are stronger than ever. And, he has both publicly apologized to and forgiven his ex-wife and his mother, two extreme sources of anger for him in his early music and two people who suffered the most from the creation of Slim Shady in the first place. For Em, it seems that the past is the past. The Death Of Slim Shady, as well as this conversation, attempts to put his old persona behind him as well.

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Ice Spice “Y2K!” Album Review

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Ice Spice is a unique victim of social media, one whose rise almost felt like someone was playing an unfunny joke on hip-hop. Before her break into the mainstream, Ice had five songs to her name. She built buzz as a New York drill artist whose soft-spoken delivery contrasted with the rest of that scene. “No Clarity,” a November 2021 track sampling Zedd’s “Clarity,” went semi-viral, and the video briefly became a meme. A few months later, On The Radar invited her to freestyle on their show. After reaching stardom, the video became one of the most viewed on their YouTube channel.

Ice released her breakout song “Munch (Feelin’ U)” in August 2022. The track trended on TikTok for the rest of the year and introduced new slang into public usage. Since “Munch,” Ice has had the success of an entire career in less than two years. She received a co-sign from Drake after one popular song. In early 2023, Nicki Minaj endorsed her. Their collaboration “Barbie World” appeared on the Barbie soundtrack and received a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Song. The New York Times dubbed her “Rap’s New Princess” after an EP. She collaborated with PinkPantheress on “Boy’s A Liar, Pt. 2,” a track that became one of the biggest of the year. She even became friends with Taylor Swift.

Read More: Ice Spice Reveals She & Nicki Minaj Aren’t “The Closest” After Leaked Texts Scandal

Ice Spice Fails To Show Growth As An Artist On Y2K!

All of this happened because much of the public ignored her most fatal flaw: Ice Spice is not a very good rapper. She lacks any substance as a lyricist. The beats she raps on, produced almost exclusively by former college classmate and closest collaborator RiotUSA, are virtually indistinguishable from one another. Because social media can produce a new celebrity overnight, Ice went from uploading tracks to SoundCloud to attending the Super Bowl with pop culture royalty faster than you can say “grah.” But, because social media has also made music the most accessible it’s ever been, Ice had no time to develop her sound meaningfully. Her debut album makes this abundantly clear.

Y2K! is the culmination of the last three years for Ice Spice. It is the punchline to a joke that’s gone far too long. In her Rolling Stone cover story, she said that one of her goals was to prove that she can actually rap. Instead, her most glaring weaknesses take center stage, making for one of the most vapid, repetitive releases of 2024.

Read More: Ice Spice Album Torched By Fans Online As Some Feel Like It Completely Misses The Mark

Y2K! Starts Strong, But Very Quickly Goes Left

Y2K! opens with “Phat Butt,” which is the most interesting performance Ice puts forth on this album. She tries out a new flow, clearly taking inspiration from Nicki Minaj. The beat is also one that a younger Minaj would’ve flexed over. Not everything on this song lands. “Jamaican plug named Batman, pack smellin’ like trash cans / Let him beat it from the back and he eat it up like Pac-Man,” is especially clumsy. Even with that, this song is one of the rare occasions where anything on the album approaches “good.” 

“Oh Shhh…” is the next track, featuring Travis Scott. Scott sounds like he has no desire to be there. Ice raps about twerking on a rival’s baby daddy out of spite. She rhymes “clappers” with “slappers,” which is not the only time she uses that scheme on the album. “B*tch I’m Packin” is another dud. She ditches her naturally subdued vocals for a raspy not-quite-whisper that sounds like it strains her to do. It sounds equally strenuous when she gets loud on “Gimmie A Light,” another song about how much money she has, her physical features, and how she’ll steal someone’s man simply because she’s better than who they’re with now. Ice must’ve written this album with a checklist next to her to make sure that she hit the same few topics.

On the topic of stealing a man, “Did It First,” the result of Ice Spice’s and Central Cee’s months-long fake relationship stunt, is not bad. It’s less than two minutes long, much to the song’s benefit. Their verses are both about infidelity and neither of them diverts from the subject. Ice raps about cheating to get revenge on a man who did it to her. Cench is more concerned about not getting caught in the act. The beat has a Clams Casino-meets-New-York-drill feel, making it one of the more unique moments on Y2K! 

Read More: Central Cee’s Girlfriend Claps Back At Ice Spice’s Series Of Sneak Disses Amid Cheating Rumors

One Step Forward, Several Steps Back

Unfortunately, for every moment on Y2K! that offers even a sliver of potential, there are even more moments that show there is no reason to ever expect anything more from her—the biggest example of this being the shocking amount of bars about poop on this album. Ice Spice is not the first to have lines about poop in her discography. However, she might be the worst offender.

On “BB Belt” and “Gimmie A Light,” (a track with a distracting sample of Sean Paul’s “Gimme the Light”) she calls herself “Miss Poopie.” On “Oh Shhh…” she says she’s “standin’ on sh*t like a floor mat.” “Think U The Sh*t (Fart),” the lead single and response to some shade from Latto, opens with “think you the sh*t, b*tch? You not even the fart.” Every rapper is entitled to one poop bar since rappers naturally feel like they’re “the sh*t.” But, after the fifth one, it’s time to find new material.

Overall, Y2K! is not an inspiring debut album. It does not prove that Ice Spice is a capable rapper, nor does it prove that she is here to stay, despite the accolades she’s already received. At only 23 minutes, it feels double that runtime, made worse because she just doesn’t have anything to say. Ice became famous before becoming a worthwhile artist, and she has yet to show any growth since becoming famous. Perhaps things would be different if she had time to incubate before being thrust into the spotlight, the way her predecessors did before the internet made music discovery instantaneous. Sadly, we’ll never know.

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AMP Freshman Cypher 2024 Ranking

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It’s been an eventful summer for the AMP Crew, who are only growing in popularity as the days pass. The crew moved out of the AMP house for the summer in Atlanta to relocate to New York, only to face a string of unfortunate events. Initially moving into a “trap house,” they eventually moved into their penthouse only to get booted out three days later. And if there’s any credence to Kai Cenat’s theory, the owner simply used AMP’s platform to move the $30M piece of real estate.

They’ve worked their way around these setbacks and still unleashed plenty of content online, even at their own expense. Take for example Kai’s Friday stream with Ice Spice and Lil Yachty, where they crammed themselves inside the back of a U-Haul truck. But beyond that, it’s clear that their summer domination continues, especially with their recent AMP Freshman Cypher. The 2023 edition found each member of AMP, Kai Cenat, Fanum, ChrisNxtDoor, Agent 00, Duke Dennis, and ImDavisss stepping up to the plate for a wildly entertaining cypher that also included a verse from Kevin Hart a.k.a Chocolate Droppa. 

But we have to be honest – these guys are basically cosplaying as rappers anytime they release a cypher. However, in some cases, making music seems like a viable career path if the streaming wave ends up crashing. In any case, we’re ranking the AMP Cypher, from worst to best. Let us know if you agree in the comment section below.

Read More: Kai Cenat Directing A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie Music Video, Shares BTS Footage

Kevin Hart

AMP Freshman freestyle 2024 includes appearance from kevin hart as chocolate droppa
(Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for Lionsgate)

It’s Kevin Hart. He’s not serious, nor are we going to take his rapping efforts as Chocolate Droppa seriously. However, we have to give credit where credit is due since he was the only one who freestyle his whole verse.

Duke Dennis

Duke Dennis appears second in the AMP Freshman Cypher 2024
(Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images)

This one is a bit of a disappointment considering the hype around his 2023 AMP Freshman Cypher. Out of everyone in AMP, Duke Dennis — who recently caught flack for his choice of attire — is the only person who could actually pass for a rapper by looks alone. It’s too bad his freestyle was subpar and he looked just as bored in the video. That’s not to say he’s a horrible rapper, either — he just sounds like a knock-off version of Moneybagg Yo. It’s Duke’s aura that does the heavy lifting during his verse.

Agent 00

(Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

The whole meme rap thing is hit-or-miss but clearly, its influence continues to seep through the fabric of pop culture. In the AMP Freshman Freestyle, Agent 00 raps with the ferocity of an angsty teenager, largely due to the shock value. We have to admit, his humor did shine through, even if it sounded like an attempt to test the boundaries of cancel culture with potty humor.

Kai Cenat

kai cenat in amp freshman freestyle 2024
(Photo by Robin L Marshall/Getty Images)

There’s been an argument that streamers are the new rappers, and perhaps, there’s no better example of that than Kai Cenat. Though his freestyle felt underwhelming to close out the cypher, it felt like a moment where he could actually pop his sh*t without coming across as completely self-absorbed. Off the rip, he addresses the infamous Tyla moment before gliding through the rest of his track dishing out bars that speak to his come-up: his work ethic, sacrifices, and loyalty. It feels contrived at moments, and it’s hard to deny that Lil Yachty’s had some sort of influence on his pen and delivery. Overall, Kai held his own on this year’s AMP Freshman list and we got to salute his hustle. 

Read More: Nicki Minaj Brings Out Kai Cenat And Fanum At Concert

ChrisNxtDoor

(Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images)

Perhaps one of the most obscure members of AMP, ChrisNxtDoor has certainly shown out as one of the more musically inclined members of the crew. Though his wordplay is impressive, it’s really his nasally yet raspy vocals that perfectly complement the riveting and spacey production choice on this record. A short effort by comparison, Chris’ verse in the cypher left a strong impression.

ImDavisss

ImDaviss of AMP delivers a stellar performance during the Freshman Cypher
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – MAY 31: ImDavisss attends a VIP Screening of Paramount Pictures’ “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” at Regal Atlantic Station on May 31, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Derek White/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

A few bars in, ImDavisss stops the beat and reflects on how his music career hasn’t really panned out over the past three years. However, the latest AMP Cypher might eventually lead to a record deal for the budding artist. Sure, his raps are just fine but the second he leaps into the harmonies, he starts sounding like Bryson Tiller. There’s a lot of potential to be tapped into it so hopefully, Davis keeps this momentum up and drops some actual heat in the near future.

Fanum

AMP Freshman Cypher
Fanum at The 2023 Streamy Awards held at the Fairmont Century Plaza Hotel on August 27, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Penske Media via Getty Images)

Fanum really showed out as the MVP of the AMP Freshman Cypher 2024. Taking on a laidback, boom-bap-esque inspired production, the New Yorkisms flowed out of him smoothly in a way that had faint remnants of the jovial energy of Pro Era’s early come-up. However, Fanum really pulled out with high-energy, slick wordplay and one of the better-beat selections that positioned him at the top of this list. 

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Police Killed Sonya Massey’s 4-Year-Old Cousin Terrell Miller In March: What We Know

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It took four months for the tragedy regarding Terrell Miller, out of Macomb, Illinois, to reach the masses. As the U.S. was swept up in the news about Sonya Massey’s slaying in nearby Springfield, it’s reported that her four-year-old cousin, Terrell, lost his life after being used as a human shield during a confrontation. NewsOne stated that police were responding to a call of a man, suspect Anthony George, with a knife in a domestic dispute. This resulted in the deaths of both George and little Terrell, and the officer responsible will not be charged.

Terrell Miller’s Mother Was Stabbed During The Incident

On March 16, 2024, Macomb police dispatch received a call from Keianna Miller’s home. They could hear her screaming, crying, and begging for someone to help her. Once police arrived, they used force to enter the apartment and found Keianna, Terrell’s mother, with multiple stab wounds. Also on the scene was Anthony George, 57, holding two knives. Quickly, officers moved Keianna outside as George reportedly took Terrell from his bedroom and returned to the hallway, where he used the little boy as a shield between himself and the officers. Seconds later, an unidentified police officer fired a single shot that went through Terrell’s head, also striking George. The suspect and the child were killed in the incident.

Officers Involved Will Not Be Charged

It came as a shock to Terrell’s loved ones when they learned that the police officers involved in the hostage incident wouldn’t be charged. Special Prosecutor Jonathan H. Barnard explained that he reviewed all the evidence and decided not to press any criminal charges. This has understandably angered many. “I feel like Terrell will never receive justice. He died for nothing,” Keianna stated.

The evidence in question included interviews with witnesses, reports from the Coroner, body camera footage from police, and more. According to authorities, when George emerged from Terrell’s room and was in the hallway, he was holding a knife to the little boy’s neck. There was reportedly another knife at George’s waist. “Based upon that review, I find that there is no basis for any criminal action or prosecution that is supportable under the facts of this case against any of the officers involved in this tragic incident,” Barnard said in a letter earlier this month.

“We believe that the police officer acted recklessly and not within standard guidelines for the use of deadly force,” Marleen Suarez, Keianna Miller’s attorney, said. “Terrell was just a little boy, and he didn’t have a chance.” Suarez added, “I watched the body cam video of Terrell’s shooting, and it is as tragic as you can imagine.” She wants the investigation into the case reopened. “We intend to hold the Macomb Police Department accountable for Terrell’s tragic death and will be pursuing civil remedies.”

Terrell’s Mother Called Him Her “Miracle Baby”

Terrell’s loved ones are still trying to pick up the pieces of this catastrophe. They told reporters he was a precious, always smiling child who couldn’t get enough of Spider-Man and trains. Further, he was referred to as his mother’s “miracle baby” because Kieanna struggled with fertility issues before Terrell’s celebrated arrival. Of course, news of Terrell’s death has shocked the Macomb community, and several have gathered in protest and for a recent press conference. There has been a call for justice, but it is unclear if the authorities are interested in re-evaluating this case.

Meanwhile, Sonya Massey’s Shooter Has Been Charged

The reportedly related nature of Sonya Massey and Terrell Miller only amplifies both tragedies. “So, really, we wanted to hold a space tonight for the community to come together, have some collective healing, and just be able to highlight the lives lost in Sonya and her cousin Terrell,” Advocates for Social Justice Board Member Harold Walehwa stated. While Terrell’s killer will seemingly escape legal troubles, deputy Sean Grayson of the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office has been charged in Sonya’s death.

On July 6, Sonya called the police after she believed a burglar was on her property. Although she was the person who called for help, police responded and questioned her about a car in her driveway and asked for her license. Then, Grayson told Sonya to check on a pot of boiling water still on her stove, but the situation took a grave turn when she entered the kitchen. Things intensified, and Sonya told the officers, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.” Officers drew their weapons, and Grayson threatened to shoot Sonya in the “f*cking face.” She dropped to the ground in fear and said, “Okay, I’m sorry,” holding the pot in front of her face and crouching on the floor. Grayson shot her three times.

Grayson Lied About The Scene

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JULY 28: Demonstrators with signs protest the killing of Sonya Massey by a Springfield, Illinois sheriff’s deputy, in Washington Square Park on July 28, 2024 in New York City. Massey was shot at home in the head by Sean Grayson, a Sangamon County, Illinois deputy after she called the police to report a possible prowler. Grayson has been arrested, sparking protests around the country demanding justice for Massey’s death. (Photo by John Lamparski/Getty Images)

Sonya’s death was first reported as self-inflicted, and on his body camera, Grayson can be heard accusing Sonya of setting up the scene on purpose. He also advised his fellow officers not to attempt life-rescuing efforts, reportedly telling them, “She’s done.” After footage of the incident was released, it quickly circulated on social media. Advocates are calling for justice once more, and Grayson has been arrested and faces several charges, including three counts of first-degree murder. With the U.S. Presidential Election less than 100 days away, both incidents will be talking points regarding police reform, immunity, and accountability.

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Ava Kris Tyson Drama: What We Know About MrBeast Co-Host’s Controversy

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Ava Kris Tyson, a former associate of MrBeast, announced she would be leaving the channel and social media behind entirely. This decision came after Tyson issued an apology for past remarks that led to allegations of grooming. It began when social media users uncovered alleged online conversation between a user named LavaGS, who was a minor at the time. Lava has since come out in defense of Tyson, though she still stepped down from the MrBeast channel. Below, we’ve broken down some of the allegations concerning Tyson’s online behavior over the last ten years.

Read More: MrBeast Allegedly Makes Inappropriate Comments About 14-Year-Old Bhad Bhabie In Resurfaced Clip

The Accusations Unveiled

The accusations against Ava Kris Tyson are primarily focused on her interactions on social media throughout the years. Tyson, who transitioned in 2023, has been the subject of significant anti-LGBTQ+ harassment since then. Recent allegations suggest that starting in 2016, when Tyson was 20, she engaged in inappropriate correspondence with a user named LavaGS, who was then 13. Lava, now 20 and an editor, later took a job with MrBeast and visited the Beast compound. These interactions have led some to believe that Lava was “groomed” by Tyson.

Tyson’s Defense

Tyson took to social media to vehemently deny the grooming allegations. In a series of posts, she stated that she had never groomed anyone, specifically mentioning Lava. Tyson admitted that her past humor was inappropriate and expressed her commitment to personal growth. Lava also supported Tyson’s statement by tweeting that he was not a victim and that their interactions were being misrepresented by others.

“I would like to apologize for any of my past behavior or comments if it hurt or offended anyone. It was not my intent. Seeing recent events we’ve mutually decided it’s best I permanently step away from all things MrBeast and social media to focus on my family and mental health,” Tyson wrote. “I want to add, I never groomed anyone. The person who gets brought up in these accusations @LavaGS has vocally supported that they are false.”

Read More: MrBeast Net Worth 2024: Updated Wealth Of The YouTube Megastar

MrBeast’s Response

Following a brief period of silence and immense backlash, Beast issued a statement regarding Tyson’s online behavior. In the tweet, the YouTuber expressed his disgust surrounding the alleged comments made by Tyson. He also said that he’s hiring an independent investigator to look into the matter. 

“Over the last few days, I’ve become aware of the serious allegations of Ava Tyson’s behavior online and I am disgusted and opposed to such unacceptable acts. During that time, I have been focused on hiring an independent third party to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure I have all the facts,” he wrote. “That said, I’ve seen enough online and taken immediate action to remove Ava from the company, my channel, and any association with MrBeast. I do not condone or support any of the inappropriate actions.I will allow the independent investigators the necessary time to conduct a comprehensive investigation and will take any further actions based on their findings..”

Reactions From Involved Parties

Lava, in an interview with Rolling Stone, claimed that his story had been distorted by the creators who first brought these allegations to light. He insisted that their portrayal of the events was misleading and motivated by an agenda. The creators in question denied any intentional wrongdoing, arguing that Tyson’s actions needed to be exposed. Lava emphasized that he had always viewed his interactions with Tyson as benign and typical of his friendships at that age.

[Via]

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Veeze Tour 2024: Dates, Tickets & More

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With one of the best albums of 2023 with Ganger, and the impeccable momentum he’s gained since releasing its deluxe edition, it only makes sense that Veeze hits the road. This fall, he’ll headline “The Worst Tour Ever,” following the release of his new single “F*cked A Fan” featuring Rylo Rodriguez. This tour will span 35 cities across North America, kicking off in Ottawa, Canada on September 8th and ending on November 26th in Detroit, MI. 

Special guests Karrahbooo, Wizz Havinn, and STAR BANDZ will join the line-up for “The Worst Tour Ever.” Moreover, it comes a year after the release of Ganger. Considering the hype around his name, we hope that the tour is an indication that a follow-up album is on the horizon. 

Read More: Doe Boy & Veeze Ball Hard On “NCAA”

Tour Dates

veeze tour dates
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – OCTOBER 03: Veeze attends the BET Hip Hop Awards 2023 at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center on October 03, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Carol Lee Rose/WireImage)

Veeze will kick off the tour with a handful of Canadian shows in early September, beginning in Ottawa Ontario. From there, he’ll hit cities like Edmonton and Calgary before returning to the States to kick off his U.S. leg in October. “The Worst Tour Ever” will include stops in major cities, such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. The show will conclude in his hometown of Detroit on November 28th. 

Special Guests

Though Veeze stands as one of the most refreshing voices in hip-hop ,“The Worst Tour Ever” will certainly bring along other promising up-and-comers. Karrahbooo, the Concrete Boyz rapper who stole the show on the collective’s On The Radar freestyle, will be joining the line-up, along with Florida’s own Wizz Havinn and “Yea Yea” artist STAR BANDZ. With such an eclectic group of openers, it’s looking like they’ll be bringing the party to every city.

Read More: Veeze Continues His Dominant Run With “Ganger (Deluxe Edition)”

Ticket Information

Via publicist

Tickets for “The Worst Tour Ever” go on sale on July 26th at 12 PM local time. Fans are encouraged to get their tickets early, as shows are expected to sell out quickly. Tickets are available on gangerworldwide.com.

Full Tour Schedule

Ottawa, CA – September 8 – Bronson Centre
London, CA – September 10 – London Music Hall
Winnipeg, CA – September 12 – Exchange
Calgary, CA – September 14 – MacEwan Hall Ballroom
Edmonton, CA – September 15 – Union Hall
New York, NY – October 9 – T5
Philadelphia, PA – October 11 – Fillmore
Providence, RI – October 12 – The Strand
Worcester, MA – October 13 – The Palladium
Hartford, CT – October 15 – The Webster
Washington, D.C. – October 16 – Fillmore Silver Spring
Myrtle Beach, SC – October 18 – House of Blues
Greensboro, NC – October 19 – Piedmont Hall
Atlanta, GA – October 20 – Tabernacle
Orlando, FL – October 22 – Vanguard
New Orleans, LA – October 24 – House of Blues
Houston, TX – October 25 – House of Blues
Dallas, TX – October 26 – House of Blues
Tucson, AZ – October 29 – Rialto
Phoenix, AZ – October 30 – Marquee
Los Angeles, CA – November 1 – Wiltern
San Luis Obispo, CA – November 5 – Fremont
Santa Cruz, WA – November 6 – The Catalyst
San Francisco, CA – November 7 – Regency
Sacramento, CA – November 8 – Ace of Spades
Portland, OR – November 10 – Roseland Theater
Boise, ID – November 13 – Knitting Factory
Salt Lake City, UT – November 15 – Depot
Denver, CO – November 16 – Summit
St. Louis, MO – November 19 – The Pageant
Omaha, NE – November 21 – Steelhouse
Minneapolis, MN – November 22 – Fillmore
Milwaukee, WI – November 23 – Rave
Columbus, OH – November 24 – Newport Music Hall
Detroit, MI – November 26 – Fillmore

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Is Keefe D An Informant? Here’s What We Know About Diddy’s Alleged Implication In Tupac’s Murder

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The world of Diddy couldn’t be any more shakey as lawsuits detailing sexual abuse mount against him. His legal troubles continue, even outside of those that are explicitly detailing alleged crimes that he’s committed. In another turn of events, it was recently revealed that Diddy’s name appears 77 times in Keefe D’s court documents, according to The Sun. What’s more, Keefe D was allegedly a confidential informant for the police who reportedly tried to implicate Diddy in an undercover operation while simultaneously working with detectives from the LAPD.

Read More: Keefe D Denied Bond Despite Wack 100’s Best Efforts

Keefe D: The Alleged Informant With A Hidden Agenda

(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

Duane Davis, also known as Keefe D, was not just an accused murderer; he was also an alleged police informant. Court filings by Las Vegas prosecutors, obtained by The Sun, claim that Keefe D began cooperating with law enforcement after they caught him trafficking drugs. He reportedly provided information on Tupac’s murder, believing he would be immune from prosecution. His alleged cooperation included a recorded account of the events leading to Tupac’s death, where he claimed Diddy had offered him a million dollars to kill the rapper.

Diddy’s Alleged Involvement

WASHINGTON, DC – SEPTEMBER 21: Sean “Diddy” Combs speaks during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference National Town Hall on September 21, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images for Congressional Black Caucus Foundation)

The court documents further implicate Diddy by recounting another interview with Keefe D. According to the filings, Diddy inquired whether the South Side Crips were responsible for Tupac’s death, to which Keefe D proudly confirmed. This exchange is a critical piece of evidence suggesting Diddy’s knowledge and possible involvement in the conspiracy to murder Tupac. Despite these allegations, Diddy has consistently denied any involvement in Tupac’s death.

Prosecutors allege that “​​Defendant [Keefe] has asserted publicly that he only told on himself and wasn’t trying to provide evidence against anyone else in his conversations with police… However, this statement belies this claim, as he suggested that Sean Combs paid Eric Von Martin a million dollars for the killings.”

Read More: When Does Keefe D’s Trial Start? New Details Emerge Around Tupac’s Alleged Killer

The Undercover Operation

(Photo by JOHN LOCHER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

According to the documents, prosecutors claim that three months after Keefe D’s recorded confession, he became an active confidential informant for a task force investigating Biggie Smalls’ murder. Keefe D and the task force officers traveled to New York to corroborate the conspiracy involving Diddy. During this undercover operation, Keefe D interacted with Eric “Zip” Martin, an alleged accomplice reportedly involved in the conspiracy with Diddy. “Task Force Detectives believed they had jurisdiction to investigate a Nevada homicide because Defendant asserted that the conspiracy to commit the murder began in California between Defendant, Eric ‘Zip’ Martin, and Sean Combs,” the documents read. ​​The court papers reveal that Keefe D and Zip had a social interaction where Zip redirected Keefe D to his nephew for drug activities, indicating his withdrawal from the business.

Keefe D’s legal battle continues as he faces trial for Tupac’s murder in November. Despite securing a $750,000 bond, a judge denied his release due to concerns about the source of the funds. Prosecutors have presented extensive evidence against Keefe D, including statements he made in interviews and books, which place him in Las Vegas on the night of the murder. Investigators also found a hotel reservation under Keefe D’s wife’s name, further placing him at the crime scene.

During a heated bail bond hearing on Tuesday, Duane “Keefe D” Davis lashed out at prosecutors and a former LAPD detective, expressing his frustration over his legal situation. Keefe D, who hoped to pursue reality TV and movie projects upon his release, appeared visibly agitated as Judge Carli Kierny deliberated his bail. His lawyer, Carl Arnold, argued for his release, asserting Keefe D’s right to profit from his reputation, given his lack of conviction for Tupac Shakur’s murder. However, prosecutors contended that Keefe’s bail money was deceitfully sourced from a friend, posing a danger to the community.

Court Outburst

Keefe’s outburst was prompted by allegations that he and rap entertainer Cash “Wack 100” Jones misled the court regarding the bail bond’s origins. Prosecutors played recorded jail phone calls revealing discussions about a potential TV deal, further complicating Keefe’s defense. Keefe vehemently denied any deal with Jones for TV projects, and Jones echoed this denial in court.

Keefe’s anger escalated when prosecutors referenced his taped confession to LAPD, where he admitted involvement in Tupac’s 1996 murder. This confession, part of a proffer deal originally protecting him from prosecution, has now become a crucial piece of evidence. Retired LAPD officer Greg Kading, central to Keefe’s confession, was a particular target of Keefe’s ire. Keefe accused Kading of mishandling evidence and breaking the law by conducting TV interviews and storing evidence improperly.

Addressing Judge Kierny directly, Keefe argued against the use of Kading’s evidence, calling it tainted and unlawful. Despite Kierny’s attempts to maintain order, Keefe continued his tirade, accusing prosecutors of unfairly involving his family in the case. Kierny indicated she needed more time to review the evidence before making a decision on Keefe’s bail.

Read More: Tupac Murder Suspect Keefe D Verbally Attacks Prosecution In Court

The Broader Impact on Diddy

Keefe’s outburst comes in the wake of a 179-page court motion by prosecutors urging for his continued detention, citing his danger to the community and a history of violent behavior. This motion also details Keefe’s role as a confidential informant, where he attempted to implicate Sean “Diddy” Combs in Tupac’s murder. Despite these allegations, Diddy has consistently denied any involvement in the killing. Keefe faces life imprisonment if convicted of Tupac’s murder, with the trial slated for later this year.

The recent court developments linking Diddy to Tupac’s murder come amid a series of other legal issues for the music mogul. Diddy has faced multiple lawsuits accusing him of sex trafficking and sexual assault, all of which he has denied. Earlier this year, his properties were raided by Homeland Security officials as part of a federal sex trafficking investigation. The convergence of these legal battles raises significant questions about Diddy’s future and the potential impact on his career and legacy.

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Sonya Massey Fatally Shot By Police On Bodycam: What We Know So Far

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Sonya Massey was tragically killed by a sheriff’s deputy in her Illinois home, a moment captured on body camera footage released on Monday. In the video, Massey is seen ducking and apologizing to Deputy Sean Grayson moments before he shot her three times, with one fatal shot to the head. This incident led to Grayson’s indictment on multiple charges, including first-degree murder. Grayson has pleaded not guilty.

Read More: Sandra Bland’s Death Analyzed In New HBO Documentary “Say Her Name”

The Incident

At approximately 00:50 am on July 6, two Sangamon County sheriff’s deputies responded to a call from Sonya Massey reporting a suspected burglar. Deputies responded to her Springfield home just before 1 a.m. on July 6, finding a black SUV with broken windows in the driveway. Upon arrival, the deputies conducted a search around Massey’s home and then knocked on her door to speak with her as she pleaded for help repeatedly. The bodycam footage reveals Massey having difficulty responding to some questions, and when asked about her mental state, she confirmed she had taken her medication. Massey had been diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, a fact later confirmed by her family. The deputies’ frustration grew as they tried to obtain her identification.

While one deputy continued searching outside, Deputy Sean P. Grayson entered the home, followed by his partner. According to the body camera footage, the situation escalated when Grayson ordered Massey to put down a pot of hot water. Massey complied by moving the pot near a sink, but the encounter took a deadly turn when she told the officers, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.” Grayson drew his firearm and threatened, “I’ll shoot you in the face.” Video shows that Massey immediately apologizes, ducks, and complies before Grayson fatally shoots her three times, including a shot to the head.

Aftermath & Legal Proceedings

Following the shooting, Grayson discouraged his partner from administering aid, citing the severity of Massey’s injuries. Despite this, the other deputy attempted to render assistance until medical help arrived. Grayson, now facing charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct, remains in custody without bond. His actions have led to widespread calls for transparency and justice as both local authorities and the public have condemned Grayson’s actions. 

Read More: Derek Chauvin Found Guilty On All Charges

Family Response

Massey’s death has elicited strong reactions from her family, legal representatives, and the broader community. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Massey’s family, criticized Grayson’s actions and called for accountability. Massey’s father, James Wilburn, demanded a thorough investigation and prosecution. The incident has also drawn comments from political figures, including President Joe Biden and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, both of whom expressed their condolences and outrage.

The family of Sonya Massey has called for justice following her fatal shooting by Deputy Sean Grayson, which they believe authorities attempted to cover up. They emphasized that the release of the bodycam footage was crucial in revealing the truth. During a news conference with their attorney, Ben Crump, and after meeting with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, the family demanded legislative changes to improve policing. 

Massey’s son, Malachi Hill-Massey, described her as a loving mother who always prioritized others and shared his fond memories of her in an interview with NBC. He and his grandmother, Donna Massey, criticized the police for their lack of transparency, noting that the police had given conflicting accounts of the incident, including a false claim of suicide.

The family insists on accountability and clarity, highlighting the discrepancies in the police narrative. They are determined to seek justice for Sonya Massey and have voiced their concerns about Deputy Grayson’s conduct and the actions of the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office. Their attorney questioned why the police department hired Grayson, with a troubled history, in the first place. The family remains steadfast in their pursuit of justice and reform.

Who Is Sean Grayson?

Grayson, 30, has been indicted on three counts of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct. His actions have drawn scrutiny, particularly regarding his troubled history and frequent job changes. According to CNN, Grayson’s brief tenure in law enforcement includes stints at six different agencies over four years. Beginning with part-time work for the Pawnee Police in August 2020, he subsequently served in the Kincaid, Virden, Auburn, Logan County, and Sangamon County law enforcement departments. 

His career shift frequency raises questions about his employment stability and the reasons behind his departures. Adding to the concern are his two DUI convictions from 2015 and 2016 in Macoupin County, Illinois, which have fueled public and familial demands for an investigation into his hiring by Sangamon County.

Officials deemed Grayson’s use of deadly force unjustified. Despite his claims of self-defense, Grayson’s delayed activation of his body camera and his dismissive remarks after the shooting—labeling Massey as “crazy”—have further tarnished his credibility. The Illinois State Police and Sangamon County prosecutor concluded that Grayson’s actions were unwarranted, leading to his firing and suspension of his law enforcement certification. Grayson remains in custody without pretrial release, having pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Celebrity Response

The murder of Massey has prompted outrage online and in real life, especially as prominent figures shed light on her death. President Joe Biden issued a statement demanding justice while Kamala Harris echoed a similar sentiment. But outside of political figures, celebrities like Solange, Meek Mill, Vic Mensa, Nick Young, and many more expressed condolences and anger.

“So the police shot and killed an 36 yr old black lady holding a pot bcuz she said I rebuke you in Jesus name..and we out here playing for USA,” Young, who will be playing basketball with Team USA at the Olympics, wrote. Solange wrote, “[The] first words Sonya Massey said at her front door were ‘Don’t hurt me.’ She was told, ‘Why would we hurt you? You called us.’ When have those words meant anything when [you’re] Black and woman in this country?”

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Childish Gambino “Bando Stone And The New World” Album Review

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In November 2011, co-star of NBC’s Community Donald Glover sat down to interview his alter ego, fledgling rapper Childish Gambino in a segment for Rolling Stone. Gambino was just over a week away from releasing his debut album, Camp. The interview goes well until Glover asks Gambino “why he raps like sh*t.” Gambino responds by saying that his voice is annoying, but also that he’s read comparisons of himself to Lil Wayne and Kanye West. On its face, it sounds like Gambino is poking fun at himself. To an extent, he is. But, those comparisons also lend themselves to a greater idea: Donald Glover thinks very highly of himself. More accurately, Donald Glover thinks very highly of his artistry. 

It’s easy to look back on something from 2011 and say it didn’t age well through a 2024 lens. Much of Camp aged poorly as soon as it hit iTunes. The charm of his earlier work, namely 2010’s Culdesac, was gone, and in its place was “corny.” The punchlines were clunky. The bars about women became bars about Asian women that were misguided at best and racist at worst. The album went over even worse than a wet fart, a failure on all fronts. Even when Gambino released Because The Internet in 2013, a surprisingly introspective follow-up to his disastrous debut, he couldn’t shake two ways that people viewed him. One, that he was the guy from Community trying to start a serious music career. And, even more damning, that he was the guy who made that album.

Read More: Childish Gambino Seems To Diss Joe Budden On New Album “Bando Stone And The New World”

Donald Glover Fully Rebrands Himself

Donald Glover spent the rest of the 2010s trying to convince people that he was a capital-A Artist. It worked. He released “Awaken, My Love!” in 2016, shaking the stigma that came with being Childish Gambino. Glover also reworked his public persona. Gone were the eye-roll-inducing punchlines. In was a man who believed his own hype. He shrouded himself in mystery and released an honest-to-God commercial funk album in the 2010s. In 2018, he released “This Is America,” the controversial multi-platinum single. It became his first song to reach #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Somehow, after years of ridicule, Glover had the last laugh.

“Awaken, My Love!” was a sharp turn from hip-hop that led to 3.15.20 nearly four years later. 3.15.20 was an ambitious surprise release. Gambino experimented greatly and pushed hip-hop to its limit. And now, on Bando Stone And The New World, Donald Glover’s last album as Childish Gambino and the soundtrack to his upcoming film of the same name, he nearly fully realizes his musical vision. It’s a sprawling work that often threatens to buckle under the weight of Gambino’s ego. The back half nearly does. The early quality gives way to tepid pop-punk and tepid pop-pop when he begins to make his exit. Despite that, the highs are undeniable. Pop, R&B, and trap sensibilities produced primarily by Glover himself, make up much of Bando Stone. It is an eclectic soundscape that results in some of the most dynamic music of his career.

Childish Gambino Is A Dynamic Artist On Bando Stone

The dynamism is apparent early. “Lithonia,” the second track on the album, is a pop-rock ballad that tells the story of Cody LaRae, Bando Stone’s main character, learning that the world “doesn’t give a f*ck” about him. The next two tracks, “Survive” and “Steps Beach,” lean more towards R&B. “Steps Beach” in particular sounds a lot like the type of atmospheric tracks that Frank Ocean specializes in. “In The Night,” with Jorja Smith and Amaarae, is a catchy, lustful track with Smith delivering an especially great vocal performance. She sounds like someone Gambino should have collaborated with a lot earlier. 

The album’s mission statement arrives about halfway through, on the song “Yoshinoya.” Gambino raps in the triplet flow in the first half over a beat reminiscent of Migos’ “Deadz.” Appropriately, he pays tribute to the city that raised him, Atlanta, by rapping in the most popular to come from that scene. One that has often been falsely attributed to a certain Canadian child actor-turned-pop music dynasty. The same dynasty whom he may have sneak dissed later in the track. “This is a code red for old heads / who never liked my short shorts and Pro-KEDs,” he raps to open the second verse. After hip-hop rejected him early, he’s coming back around to show off a bit, mainly because he has a lot more to show off now. The Amaarae and Flo Milli-assisted “Talk My Sh*t” is a similarly flex-heavy song. Gambino raps over a bass-heavy trap beat, showing that he’s added new wrinkles to his game over the years.

Read More: Childish Gambino Inspires Drake Beef Theories On “Bando Stone” Cut, “Yoshinoya”: Stream

Bando Stone Nearly Slips At The Finish Line

The album begins to lose steam by the end, but Gambino does stick the landing. “We Are God” is a level of self-indulgence on par with some of the worst that Yeezus has to offer. The pop-punk of “Running Around” (featuring Fousheé) evokes the same empty feeling one gets from listening to MGK’s attempts at the sound. The Khruangbin-featuring “Happy Survival” is an instrumental that, while pleasant, feels out of place after the preceding fifteen tracks. Luckily, “Dadvocate” is a sweet, albeit brief, meditation on fatherhood and the idea of being a man. The album closes with “A Place Where Love Goes,” a track co-produced by pop titan Max Martin, that deftly blends hip-hop and electronic music. It may even find its way into some DJ mixes in the near future.

Bando Stone And The New World is a good album. It’s hard to call it great, let alone one of the best albums of the year, considering its uneven ending. But, the scope of its ambition makes it a worthwhile listen and a very worthy farewell to the Childish Gambino moniker. Donald Glover’s musical growth has been painstakingly documented at every turn. Now, he’s actually good enough to earn the praise he believes he should’ve received all those years ago. Regardless of what’s next for Glover musically, he has earned enough cache for people to want to listen to what he has to say. Until then, listen to this one.

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