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Ballet Star Michaela DePrince Passes Away at 29, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Inspiration

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Michaela Mabinty DePrince, the internationally acclaimed ballet dancer who rose from the ashes of war-torn Sierra Leone to grace some of the world’s most prestigious stages, has passed away at the age of 29. The tragic news was announced on her personal Instagram page by a family spokesperson, though the cause of death remains undisclosed.

DePrince’s family described her death as “sudden,” with her sister, Mia Mabinty DePrince, expressing profound heartbreak. “I am in a state of shock and deep sadness. My beautiful sister is no longer here,” Mia shared. The family’s statement also hailed Michaela as an “unforgettable inspiration,” whose influence spanned across the globe.

Michaela DePrince’s life was one of resilience and triumph. Born in 1995 in Kenema, Sierra Leone, she faced unimaginable adversity early on, losing both parents during the country’s brutal civil war. At just three years old, she was sent to an orphanage, where she was treated harshly due to her vitiligo, a skin condition that caused depigmentation. Despite these challenges, DePrince’s spirit remained unbroken.

She was adopted by an American couple and moved to New Jersey, where her adoptive mother, Elaine DePrince, fostered her burgeoning love for ballet. From there, Michaela’s talent and determination led her to incredible heights. She became the youngest principal dancer at the Dance Theatre of Harlem and gained further recognition when she appeared in Beyoncé’s Lemonade. In 2021, she joined Boston Ballet as a second soloist and, remarkably, made an appearance on Dancing with the Stars at just 17.

Her artistic prowess was matched by her humanitarian work. Michaela advocated passionately for children affected by conflict, using her platform to raise awareness and offer hope. A spokesperson for DePrince described her as someone whose artistry “touched countless hearts” and who lived a life of “grace, purpose, and strength.”

Tributes have poured in from across the ballet world and beyond. Misty Copeland, one of the most prominent American ballerinas, expressed her sorrow, writing, “Despite being told the ‘world wasn’t ready for Black ballerinas,’ she remained determined and made big strides.”

DePrince’s family is now grappling with an additional heartbreaking loss—the passing of their mother, Elaine DePrince, around the same time as Michaela’s death. The double loss has left her family and the ballet community reeling.

Michaela DePrince’s career shattered barriers for dancers of color and challenged the rigid stereotypes within the ballet community. She was not just a dancer; she was a symbol of hope, resilience, and boundless talent. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

The post Ballet Star Michaela DePrince Passes Away at 29, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Inspiration first appeared on The Source.

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Gospel Great Yolanda Adams Returns With ‘Sunny Days’ Her First Album In 13 Years

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Yolanda Adams, the platinum-selling legendary gospel singer makes her grand return today with the release of her latest solo studio album, Sunny Days, the four-time GRAMMY winner’s first album since 2011’s Becoming. Sunny Days is a 15-track offering and includes features from Terry Hunter, Sir The Baptist and Donald Lawrence.

The release of Sunny Days comes amidst Ms. Adams’ co-headlining The Reunion Tour with some of gospel’s most decorated heavyweights: Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp, Fred Hammond, The Clark Sisters and Kierra Sheard-Kelly. The 29-date trek is underway and in the thick of its midwestern swing; Ms. Adams will perform live in Cincinnati, OH this evening. Ticket and tour stop information is here.

Sunny Days is supported by its lead single, “Church Doors,” a resounding and powerful performance from Yolanda Adams, who reprises her role as one of the most explosive vocal performers in all of music—sacred or secular—on her first new single in over a decade. “The world has been through so much,” Adams said of the song’s theme to Billboard. “So to have some good news about what God has done is what we need right now. Ms. Adams is joined by Sir the Baptist, Donald Lawrence and J. Ivy on two remixes of the song, both by three-time GRAMMY-nominated house DJ Terry Hunter. Earlier this month, Ms. Adams performed the heralded new single on The Tamron Hall Show, a performance that left fans in awe of her continued excellence on social media.

“I’ve had so many producers say hey why don’t you come and do this,” says Ms. Adams about her commitment to gospel music in conversation with Indiana’s News 8 while on tour. “But I look at the patterns of different types of music. Gospel music is the only genre where you can sing from the age of 13 to the age of 100. Because, my thing is, if I’m using my gift in the right way then God will always provide.”

The post Gospel Great Yolanda Adams Returns With ‘Sunny Days’ Her First Album In 13 Years first appeared on The Source.

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Chrisean Rock Celebrates Her Son’s First Birthday After Release from Jail

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Chrisean Rock took to Instagram to share a heartwarming moment with her fans, celebrating the first birthday of her son, Chrisean Jesus Porter, just days after being released from jail. In an emotional video posted on her page, the reality star is seen holding her baby boy close, showering him with thousands of kisses as she expressed her gratitude for being able to share this special day with him.

In the video’s caption, Chrisean reflected on the blessing of being set free just in time to celebrate her son’s milestone. “To be with you Today set free a couple days from your birthday is a Blessing. Happy 1 years old September 3,” she wrote. Chrisean also included a heartfelt message quoting Psalm 127:3: “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.”

The reality star continued to share her thoughts on the significance of being present in her child’s life, despite the challenges she has faced. “In the journey of parenthood, moments and milestones hold special places in our hearts, yet it’s important to remember that your love and presence in your child’s life are what truly matter,” she wrote. Chrisean acknowledged that missing significant events like a first birthday can bring feelings of sadness or regret, but she emphasized that it also offers a chance to reflect on the love and care she provides every day.

Chrisean, who was recently released after spending three months in jail, shared how her experience has softened her heart and strengthened her faith. “Through this fall it soften my heart to truly find peace in the word of God n to really focus on the ordained plan of my life through Obedience Purity is key n this journey to go Glory to Glory @chriseanjesus,” she added. She also thanked her supporters for their prayers and encouragement during her time in custody.

In a follow-up Instagram Live session, Chrisean revealed that she is following God’s guidance and teased some exciting new projects that she has in the works, signaling a fresh start after her challenging ordeal.

Chrisean’s arrest took place on June 10 in California, where she was detained on an outstanding warrant. The 24-year-old was incarcerated at the Craig County Detention Center in Oklahoma, facing charges related to failure to have a tax stamp affixed on controlled dangerous substances (CDS) and possession of CDS with the intent to distribute. The charges stem from a February 2022 incident when Chrisean was found in possession of approximately one pound of cannabis during a traffic stop.

If convicted on both charges, Chrisean could face up to eight years in prison.

Meanwhile, Chrisean’s estranged boyfriend, Blueface, who is also the father of their son, is currently serving a four-year prison sentence for violating parole. The rapper, who has had his own share of legal troubles, is expected to be released by next spring.

The post Chrisean Rock Celebrates Her Son’s First Birthday After Release from Jail first appeared on The Source.

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Journalist Toure Exposes Mary J. Blige’s Cold Treatment in Unforgettable Interview Experience

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Veteran journalist and cultural critic Toure has recently shed light on one of the most challenging interview experiences of his career, revealing the time when Mary J. Blige, the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul,” was notably rude to him during a 1994 assignment. Toure shared the story on his blog, calling it the “2nd Worst Interview Situation” he ever encountered—surpassed only by a harrowing encounter with Suge Knight.

At the height of her career, following the release of her critically acclaimed sophomore album My Life, Mary J. Blige was set to be featured in a piece for The New York Times. The plan was simple: Toure would accompany the singer as she revisited her roots in the Schlobaum projects, capturing the story of a rising star returning home. But things didn’t go as smoothly as planned.

Toure recounts how Mary, still new to the industry, was visibly guarded and quick-tempered throughout the day. From the outset, her responses to his questions were curt and dismissive. When he attempted to engage her in conversation during a limo ride, she brushed off his questions, even going so far as to call him “stupid” before turning her attention away completely. Despite the cold reception, Toure opted to give her space, hoping she would eventually warm up.

The day took a turn for the worse when, after a brief visit to the projects, Mary and her entourage returned to the limo to continue the day’s journey. When Toure attempted to join them, Mary pointedly refused to let him into the car. As Toure stood outside for half an hour, missing out on a potentially pivotal moment for his story, he realized the day’s narrative would be far different than what he had envisioned.

When the group finally reconvened, the tension was palpable. Mary, still clearly displeased, ordered Toure not to speak to her for the remainder of the day. The uncomfortable silence that ensued during the ride back to Manhattan culminated in Mary’s demand that Toure exit the limo in a remote, somewhat sketchy area of the city—far from any convenient transportation.

The incident left Toure and the team at Mary’s label, Uptown Records, in a difficult position. Label head Andre Harrell, who was also a friend of Toure, reached out, urging him to consider Mary’s challenging upbringing and the psychological scars it left behind. Harrell explained that Mary’s harsh demeanor was rooted in the trauma of her past, which she was still struggling to overcome, even as her career soared.

Despite the rough day, Toure chose not to write a negative piece about Mary J. Blige. Instead, he pivoted, crafting a story that shifted focus from a traditional profile to a broader discussion of the image-making machine surrounding the star. Toure emphasized that a journalist’s job is to tell the story of the artist, not to settle personal scores.

Though the incident occurred decades ago, Toure’s recollection of that day remains vivid.

Watch below.

@toureshow

She has never apologuzed.

♬ Be Happy – Mary J. Blige

The post Journalist Toure Exposes Mary J. Blige’s Cold Treatment in Unforgettable Interview Experience first appeared on The Source.

The post Journalist Toure Exposes Mary J. Blige’s Cold Treatment in Unforgettable Interview Experience appeared first on The Source.

Russell Simmons Escalates Legal Battle with Ex-Wife Kimora Lee Simmons Over Financial Dispute

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Russell Simmons’ legal battle with his ex-wife, Kimora Lee Simmons, appears far from over, despite his earlier optimism about a resolution. Four months ago, Russell hinted that the lawsuit he filed against Kimora was close to being settled, but recent developments suggest otherwise.

According to court documents obtained by In Touch, the 66-year-old music mogul has ramped up his efforts, demanding that Kimora, 49, produce private text messages and appear for a deposition this month as part of their ongoing federal court dispute. The case centers around allegations that Kimora used Russell’s shares of their jointly owned energy drink company to bail out her then-husband, Tim Leissner, from jail.

Russell’s recent legal moves indicate that the two have reached an impasse regarding the production of key documents he believes are critical to proving his case. He is specifically seeking communications between Kimora and Tim Leissner related to financial transactions that are at the heart of the dispute, as well as communications between Kimora and her financial advisors. Despite repeated requests, Kimora has not turned over the texts Russell believes are necessary for his case.

“The only text messages Ms. Lee has produced appear to be messages sent or received by Defendant Leissner, not her,” Russell’s lawyer argued, adding that Russell is entitled to messages containing responsive content, excluding those solely between Kimora and Leissner unless third parties were involved in the conversation.

In addition to the document dispute, Russell is pressing for Kimora to attend a deposition in New York. However, Kimora’s legal team has pushed back, arguing that she resides in Los Angeles, where three of her five children—who are school-age minors—live with her. Her lawyer emphasized that Russell is well aware of her location, noting that he has even sued her in Los Angeles previously. Kimora is insisting that the deposition take place in Los Angeles instead.

As tensions between the former couple escalate, a judge has set a hearing for October to address these issues.

Thoughts?

The post Russell Simmons Escalates Legal Battle with Ex-Wife Kimora Lee Simmons Over Financial Dispute first appeared on The Source.

The post Russell Simmons Escalates Legal Battle with Ex-Wife Kimora Lee Simmons Over Financial Dispute appeared first on The Source.

Cleotrapa Moves Past Ice Spice Tour Drama, Joins Azealia Banks for Halloween Performance

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Cleotrapa is forging ahead after her tumultuous experience touring with Ice Spice, finding support and a new opportunity with rap veteran Azealia Banks. The 26-year-old rapper, who recently exposed her former friend Ice Spice in a 6-part TikTok series, is set to perform alongside Banks at Terminal 5 in New York City on Halloween.

Azealia Banks, 33, took to X (formerly Twitter) on September 4 to announce the collaboration, using the moment to throw shade at Ice Spice, 24, for her alleged mistreatment of Cleotrapa during the U.S. leg of her Y2K! World Tour. The “212” artist made it clear that Cleotrapa will have a much better experience this time around, emphasizing the respect and professionalism she plans to extend to her fellow artist.

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“I don’t like how everyone is trying to make Cleotrapa look. Any fcking who @iamcleotrapa will be performing with me on Halloween Oct 31. at @Terminal5NYC,” Banks wrote. “She will be paid, have her own space to glam, whatever she wants on her rider… because I have fcking respect & class.”

The post comes after Cleotrapa detailed the alleged mistreatment she endured on tour with Ice Spice, including not being paid, having to cover her own hotel and food expenses, and being isolated from the rest of the tour crew. These allegations have sparked widespread conversation on social media, with many fans rethinking their support for Ice Spice, a Grammy Award nominee.

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Banks didn’t stop at defending Cleotrapa; she also took direct aim at Ice Spice’s manager, James Rosemond Jr., who had previously blamed the tour debacle on Cleotrapa and her team in a series of posts on X. Banks was quick to call out Rosemond, criticizing him for his comments.

“Ice Spice’s manager is a bird *ss n*gg* 4 trying to add insult to injury when a young girl is expressing how she feels. He’s trying to make Cleo look like an amateur when the fact that he’s even chiming in at all is ghetto, low class and a huge sign of having zero skin in the game,” Banks wrote. She added, “How about he get his artist some filler for those smile lines, she’s aging like f*cking milk.”

While Ice Spice has addressed some of the allegations, the damage may have already been done. The claims of mistreatment have undoubtedly affected the public’s perception of her, despite her recent success and accolades.

@cleotrapa

Ion wanna hear “i told you so cleo” cause honestly i really thought i had a friend idc. Yall not gonnq create false narratives! Cause imma always clear my name up & yall been knew that since 2018

♬ original sound – Cleotrapa 💋

The post Cleotrapa Moves Past Ice Spice Tour Drama, Joins Azealia Banks for Halloween Performance first appeared on The Source.

The post Cleotrapa Moves Past Ice Spice Tour Drama, Joins Azealia Banks for Halloween Performance appeared first on The Source.

Tameka “Tiny” Harris Takes the Stand in Federal Court, Denies “Money Grab” in Lawsuit

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Tameka “Tiny” Harris, wife of rapper T.I., took the witness stand in a federal courtroom in California on Wednesday to address allegations that she and her husband staged a shakedown against MGA Entertainment. The Harris couple has accused the toy giant of stealing the likeness and style of their daughter’s teen pop group, OMG Girlz, to create the wildly popular “L.O.L. Surprise! O.M.G.” dolls.

Tiny, who gained fame as a member of the 90s R&B group Xscape and co-wrote the hit song “No Scrubs” for TLC, was the first witness called to testify in the trial that began on Tuesday in Santa Ana. Speaking in a calm and measured tone, Tiny firmly denied that the lawsuit was motivated by financial gain. “I’m not here for a money grab. I live very comfortably, me and my husband. We’re doing pretty well for ourselves,” she stated. Tiny emphasized that her primary concern was for the members of the OMG Girlz — her daughter Zonnique “Star” Pullins, Bahja “Beauty” Rodriguez, and Breaunna “Babydoll” Womack — who she believes deserve recognition and compensation for their creative contributions.

“It’s more about the girls. I feel like the girls built a brand, and they work hard for it,” Tiny testified. She argued that it was unjust for a large corporation like MGA to profit from the image and style that the OMG Girlz had cultivated without including them in the success. “I don’t feel that it’s right for a big company to come and take something they built and not make them a part of it,” she added.

The legal dispute dates back to December 2020, when Tiny and T.I., whose real name is Clifford Harris, sent a cease-and-desist letter to MGA, demanding the toy company halt distribution of its O.M.G. dolls, alleging that the dolls’ name, vibrant hair, and unique wardrobe were directly inspired by the OMG Girlz. MGA responded swiftly with a lawsuit seeking a court ruling that the company owns the name and image of the dolls. In response, the Harris couple filed a cross-complaint for trade dress infringement.

This courtroom confrontation is not the first time the two sides have clashed. An initial trial in January 2023 ended in a mistrial, and a second trial later that year resulted in a loss for the Harris couple. However, that verdict was overturned due to a change in the law, leading to the current proceedings.

With T.I. watching from the gallery, Tiny made it clear that their fight was about principle and justice for the OMG Girlz. The outcome of this trial could set a significant precedent for how intellectual property rights are protected in the entertainment and toy industries, especially when it comes to the creative contributions of artists and performers.

As the trial continues, the Harris family and their supporters are hoping that their case will lead to a favorable outcome, ensuring that the hard work and creativity of the OMG Girlz are properly acknowledged and compensated.

The post Tameka “Tiny” Harris Takes the Stand in Federal Court, Denies “Money Grab” in Lawsuit first appeared on The Source.

The post Tameka “Tiny” Harris Takes the Stand in Federal Court, Denies “Money Grab” in Lawsuit appeared first on The Source.

50 Cent Reveals Dame Dash Thought $1 Million Advance from Shady Records Wasn’t Alot

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Dame Dash is 50 Cent’s latest target. Speaking with Million Dollaz Worth of Game, 50 gave insight to a conversation with Dash during contract negotiations with Shady Records.

“The only person that pointed out a million dollars was no money was Damon Dash and he has no money now,” 50 said. “How you gonna say that’s no money?

“After you get you a watch, chain, look out for the homies and then do this, then it’s nothing.”

You can hear it from 50 below.

Dame Dash is sweetening the pot on his pending Roc-a-Fella sale. Hitting Instagram, Dash announced he would throw in a Roc-A-Fella chain to whoever is the lucky buyer.

“As we all know, one-third of Roc-A-Fella Inc. which owns Reasonable Doubt is for sale and I’ve gotten a lot of calls, a lot of offers,” Dash said. “I’ve definitely got some very healthy offers and I appreciate those.

“So if you do wanna buy one-third of Roc-A-Fella Inc., you are gonna have to bring some bread. And anything over $10 million, I’m gonna sweeten the pot: you get an original Roc-A-Fella chain from off my neck.”

Dame Dash heard about JAY-Z’s legal filing, stating a claim to Reasonable Doubt in 2031. His response: “This shit is still for sale.”

The battle over the rights to Jay-Z’s iconic debut album, Reasonable Doubt, is nearing its conclusion. Recent legal filings reveal that the full ownership of the album will officially transfer to Jay-Z in 2031. This news comes as Dame Dash, co-founder of Roc-A-Fella Records, is facing the public auction of his 33.3% stake in the company, scheduled for later this month.

TMZ states that the U.S. Marshals will auction Dash’s shares in Roc-A-Fella Records, with a minimum bid set at $1.2 million. This auction follows years of Dash attempting to sell his shares, culminating in this forced sale. The proceeds from the auction are intended to cover a judgment from a civil suit Dash lost in 2022 to Josh Webber and Muddy Waters Pictures over defamation and copyright infringement related to the film Dear Frank.

The recent filing by Jay-Z’s legal team further complicates the value of Dash’s stake in Roc-A-Fella. The document confirms that the rights to Reasonable Doubt, released in 1996, will transfer from Roc-A-Fella to Jay-Z’s ownership under his real name, Shawn Carter, in 2031. This shift was already set to happen 35 years after the album’s release. Still, the filing makes it official, indicating that whoever wins the auction will only receive a portion of the album’s revenue for the next six years.

But insert Dash and his response:

They can say what they want, this shit is still for sale. You’re not buying a copyright, you’re buying a piece of a company ROC A FELLA INC. Please only serious inquiries only!

The post 50 Cent Reveals Dame Dash Thought $1 Million Advance from Shady Records Wasn’t Alot first appeared on The Source.

The post 50 Cent Reveals Dame Dash Thought $1 Million Advance from Shady Records Wasn’t Alot appeared first on The Source.

Snoop Dogg on a Mission to Find Martha Stewart Her Perfect Match

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Snoop Dogg and Martha Stewart Recreate 'Titanic' Scene

In a heartwarming display of friendship, rapper Snoop Dogg is determined to help his longtime friend, lifestyle mogul Martha Stewart, find the love of her life. According to sources, Snoop, 52, has taken it upon himself to play matchmaker for the 83-year-old television icon, who has yet to find a lasting romantic relationship.

Snoop and Martha’s unlikely yet endearing friendship has been well-documented over the years, from their popular cooking show collaborations to their joint appearances at various events. Now, Snoop is reportedly going above and beyond to ensure his bestie finds happiness in her personal life.

Sources close to the pair reveal that Stewart has been leaning on Snoop for relationship advice, and he’s enthusiastically jumped at the opportunity to help her find the man of her dreams. “He can’t understand why a beautiful soul like Martha hasn’t snagged a guy when she looks so great and much younger than her age,” insiders shared.

Despite her success and charm, Stewart has had a few love interests over the years, but none have blossomed into serious relationships. The options presented to her have been less than ideal, with sources noting, “The options haven’t been good in terms of serving up a guy who’s sexy and charming and eligible.”

But Snoop isn’t one to back down from a challenge. The rapper is said to be encouraging Martha to get out of the house and take on new projects, all in the hopes that she’ll meet someone special along the way. He’s even taken on the responsibility of vetting potential matches for her, ensuring that only the most suitable candidates make the cut.

With Snoop’s unwavering support and matchmaking efforts, fans are hopeful that Martha will soon find the romance she deserves. Their friendship, already a beloved example of two very different personalities coming together, could now lead to a new chapter in Stewart’s life—one filled with love and companionship.

As Snoop continues his mission, it’s clear that his bond with Martha goes beyond their shared love of cooking and entertaining. It’s a testament to the power of true friendship, where even the most unexpected connections can lead to beautiful outcomes.

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Cardi B Goes In on Atlantic Records Calling the Label a “Correctional Facility”

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It was all good just a week ago or maybe it never was. In the curious case of when is Cardi B dropping her next album, the Bronx rapper has kept fans on edge with a series of updates and delays.

Cardi stirred up more excitement and concern on Wednesday (Aug. 28) when she posted a photo from a recording studio, captioning it, “Back at Atlantic Records correctional facilities.” Wow.

The comment sparked a flurry of reactions on socials.

One user on X quipped, “She just like me when it’s time to go to work.”

Another said, “Well she’s pregnant & divorcing, wouldn’t want to either.”

Obviously fans and well, the world has been waiting for a follow-up to her blockbuster 2018 debut, “Invasion of Privacy,” which spawned hits like “Bodak Yellow,” “I Like It,” and “Bartier Cardi.” But earlier this year, Cardi announced that the album would not be released in 2024.

“I hate that I fall back and start interacting again and it bites me in the a**. Anyway, NO album this year I don’t care I’m relaxing this year ..Dropping these features I already committed to and traveling and enjoying my summer,” she tweeted in May.

However, her label, Atlantic Records said via caption “Cardi B’s upcoming album is one of the most anticipated this year. We can’t wait [to] put it out, even if we have to sneak into her studio and take it!”

Maybe Atlantic has not gotten the memo. Or maybe they just don’t care what she said. Either way, we’re all on album watch and the clock is ticking.

The post Cardi B Goes In on Atlantic Records Calling the Label a “Correctional Facility” first appeared on The Source.

The post Cardi B Goes In on Atlantic Records Calling the Label a “Correctional Facility” appeared first on The Source.