The Weeknd Hits Record 120.5 Million Monthly Spotify Listeners, Breaks His Own Record

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The Weeknd has officially beat his own record of artist with highest monthly listeners on Spotify, with over 120.5 million monthly listeners.

The XO-superstar became the first artist to reach 100 million monthly listeners in February of 2023, and has held the number 1 spot since then, aside for a recent one month period. This feat comes following The Weeknd’s latest music video for “Timeless” with Playboi Carti Produced by Pharrell. Also recently released is the fan hit “Dancing In The Flames,” from his heavily anticipated album, Hurry Up Tomorrow available for vinyl and CD.

Last month, The Weeknd delivered a sold out stadium spectacular live performance from São Paulo, which was streamed exclusively on YouTube. Millions of fans worldwide tuned in to witness the unique concert that showcased his signature sound and electrifying stage presence along with surprise guests Playboi Carti and Anitta. It was the highest music performance trending in the US and trended in 24 other countries, further solidifying The Weeknd’s reign as a global music icon. 10% of net proceeds from all merchandise sales at the event and online to the Brazilian Soul Fund of BrazilFoundation, supporting communities affected by natural disasters and economic hardships in southern Brazil.

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DDG Roasted By TikToker Claiming He “Trapped” Halle Bailey With A Baby

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DDG has not had it easy since breaking up with Halle Bailey. The rapper and YouTuber requested that fans respect their privacy. In truth, they have done everything but. They have memed DDG for not being good enough to hold on to Bailey. They’ve also made fake screenshots of DDG Instagram posts, that he has had to debunk. The latest DDG controversy may be the meanest, though. A TikToker made a post in which she accused the rapper of trapping Halle Bailey with a child. He responded, and then she got back at him. It was a whole mess.

The overall sentiment of the TikTok post was that DDG purposely “trapped” his ex-girlfriend by starting a family with her and then breaking up. DDG didn’t appreciate the theory, and took to Instagram Live to set the record straight. “CPM’s not that high for you to be on there talking for two minutes about me,” he told followers. The rapper then decided to get personal with the TikTok creator. “You got two kids, I looked on your Instagram…. with no baby daddy. But you worry about me.” DDG made it clear that he didn’t want or think people should be, in his personal business. “Y’all need to stop,” he added. “I be seeing what y’all be saying, bro.”

Read More: Joe Budden Slightly Changes His Tune On DDG: “I Like You A Little Bit”

DDG Was Called Out For His Insulting Comments

The creator, who goes by the handle @frankie_aab, responded. She scrolled through Halle Bailey’s Instagram and noted that DDG is nowhere to be found. “I need y’all to let me know when you see DDG on her page,” she remarked. “It’s funny that you try to use me being a baby mama as an insult when you turned her into a baby mama your damn self.” The creator then noted that including the father of her children on her social media would not make sense. “Why would I have my ex-husband on my page,” @frankie_aab asked. “Did you ever marry that girl?”

The TikToker proceeded to criticize DDG for trying to cast her in a negative. She claimed that her kids are currently spending time with their father, effectively disproving the implication that her ex-husband is not in their lives. There’s a bit of a double standard at play, here, admittedly. @frankie_aab is rightfully calling out DDG for making assumptions and casting aspersions on her life. The whole TikTok exchange started, though, because she was doing the same thing about his life.

Read More: DDG Claims He’s Done With Dating Unless He Reunites With Halle Bailey

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Former President Barack Obama Campaigns For Harris: ‘Yes She Can’

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With Election Day just weeks away, former President Barack Obama has hit the campaign trail to support Vice President Kamala Harris. On Thursday, Obama traveled to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground state where polls between the candidates remain close.

Recalling his famous campaign slogan “Yes, We Can,” Obama introduced a new version in support of Harris: “Yes, She Can.” He praised the vice president as “a leader who has spent her life fighting on behalf of people who need a voice and a chance.”

In his speech, Obama addressed the challenges Americans have faced in recent years, from the pandemic to rising inflation. He expressed empathy for the difficulties many are enduring, while also emphasizing the importance of leadership in such times.

Obama didn’t shy away from criticizing former President Donald Trump, describing him as “out-of-touch” and mocking Trump’s often lengthy and unfocused rally speeches, which he referred to as “word salad.” He also called out Trump for spreading misinformation, particularly concerning recent claims about FEMA’s response to Hurricane Helene. Trump has accused the administration of neglecting storm victims and redirecting FEMA funds to Democratic-leaning areas and migrants—allegations the administration has strongly denied.

“Everybody knew it wasn’t true, even local Republicans said it wasn’t true,” Obama said. He expressed dismay over Trump’s behavior, asking, “The idea of intentionally trying to deceive people in their most vulnerable moments—when did that become okay?”

Obama’s stop in Pittsburgh marked the beginning of a broader campaign tour across key swing states. He previously spoke at a campaign fundraiser in California and at the Democratic National Convention.

Next week, former President Bill Clinton is expected to join the campaign effort, with plans to rally support for Harris in the rural South, according to a campaign spokesperson.

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TIME100 Next Gala Honors Victoria Monét, Jalen Brown, Shaboozey And Others

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The 2024 TIME100 Next Gala took place on October 9 at Pier59 in New York City, honoring a group of rising stars who are making significant cultural and social impacts. Among this year’s honorees were Victoria Monét, Shaboozey, Vince Staples, Jaylen Brown, Aaron Pierre, Brandon Blackwood, Reneé Rapp, and Sabrina Carpenter.

Sounds like a serious event and the stars were most certainly out.

Victoria Monét received high praise as she should from Yara Shahidi, who described the JAGUAR II singer as embodying “the essence of an Artist with a capital A.” Shahidi highlighted Monét’s ability to honor the legacy of artists who came before her while creating something uniquely her own. “Her influence is indisputable, not just within the music industry, but in the lives of all who experience her art,” Shahidi remarked.

Country-rap artist Shaboozey was recognized for his innovation and authenticity. Fellow musician Jelly Roll described him as “innovative, honest, charismatic, and charming in a way that’s real,” expressing pride in Shaboozey’s role in representing country music.

What’s more, Colin Kaepernick praised Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown, calling him “more than an NBA star; he’s a force for justice and change.” Kaepernick commended Brown’s philanthropic efforts, labeling him a “beacon of hope” and expressing admiration for the path Brown is paving for future generations.

Quinta Brunson honored Vince Staples as “your favorite rapper’s favorite rapper,” emphasizing his creative versatility and noting how “cool” it is to be both a fan and friend of someone with such a wide range of ideas and talents. Staples is branching out to Hollywood so it’s nice to see him get his due.

If you are unfamiliar, TIME100 Next, distinct from the traditional TIME100, was created to recognize influential leaders who are shaping the future without waiting to follow conventional paths. The list has no age or leadership requirements, acknowledging that influence today takes many forms and often comes from unexpected places.

Although not all honorees could attend the event in person, the gala showcased a night of celebration, with notable appearances and tributes to those making a lasting impact across music, sports, fashion, and activism.

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Diddy’s Racketeering Trial Has Been Tentatively Scheduled For May 2025

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The trial against Sean “Diddy” Combs for racketeering and sex trafficking has tentatively been scheduled for next spring, according to Rolling Stone. The trial is set to begin on May 5, 2025, with prosecutors saying in a hearing today in a New York courtroom that they will need about three weeks to present their case, and warning that another indictment against Diddy could override the current charges. While accused have the right to a speedy trial, prosecutors say they need time to process evidence recovered in April raids of Diddy’s properties, including 96 electronic devices.

Diddy is currently jailed in the special housing unit of New York’s Metropolitan Detention Center awaiting trial after being denied bail; he’s currently preparing a third appeal with a new legal team, offering $50 million and a long list of restrictions including GPS monitoring and limited communications with anyone who could affect the outcome of the trial. However, two judges so far have agreed that his freedom could present a danger of witness tampering. Meanwhile, Diddy’s defense complained of leaks of sensitive information from law enforcement, such as the hotel security footage of his assault on ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, which could bias a jury against him.

The music mogul is accused of a litany of crimes in the furtherance of his alleged racketeering enterprise, including sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice.” If convicted, he could go to prison for 15 years to life.

Chino Pacas Teases Snippet Of New Drake Collab “Modo Capone”

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Drake’s assessment of young talent has been a controversial topic. He has proven to have a good eye when it comes to picking out artists before they make it big, and linking up for a collab. He did it with The Weeknd in 2011, and has kept it moving ever since. Some claim that these are instances of Drake being a culture vulture, a musical vampire, others praise his musical versatility and ability to co-sign. Chino Pacas is the latest example of this phenomenon.

Pacas has exploded over the last two years. He signed to Street Mob in 2023, and released his breakout single, “El Gordo Trae el Mando,” soon after. The song charted on the Billboard Hot 100, and Drake made it clear he was rocking with the teen sensation. The 6 God walked out to an unreleased Chino Pacas tune during a 2024 appearance at a Houston rodeo. He’s set to appear on the single “Modo Capone,” which is on Pacas’ upcoming debut. And on October 10, a week before its release, we were given a snippet of the anticipated collab.

Read More: Drake Shows Love To J Cole After Being Referenced In New Song

Chino Pacas Is Rumored To Sign A Label Deal With Drake

The snippet only lasts 28 seconds, and doesn’t include vocals from Drake or Chino Pacas. It does give fans, however, a feel for what “Modo Capone” is going to sound like. The instrumental is littered with hi hats and a busy synth line. It feels very moody and nocturnal, which is right in the Drake wheelhouse. It would not be surprising to find out that Drake’s longtime producer, Noah “40” Shebib, had a hand in the sound of “Modo Capone.” The instrumental also provides some insight into the rumors that Drake and Chino Pacas have a more substantial collab lined up.

JOP, a member of Fuerza Regida, claimed that Pacas has plans to sign a one album deal with Drake and OVO member Chubbs. The rapper announced that Drake and Chubbs are launching a brand new label. The label is reportedly called PFL, and Pacas is alleged to be the first artist to sign on. Neither Drake nor Pacas have spoken on the rumors. The latter, however, has spoken about how much he enjoys working with Drake. He also cited the Toronto rapper as a musical influence. We can’t wait to see what these two cook up for the fans.

Read More: Drake Proclaims His PARTYNEXTDOOR Collab Album Will Be A “Classic”

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Kanye’s Newest Lawsuit From Former Employee Hired to Spy on Wife Bianca Censori and Kardashian Fam

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Kanye West, is facing yet another lawsuit this time filed by a former employee who served as his “director of intelligence.” The unnamed plaintiff, referred to as John Doe, filed the suit on October 10, alleging that West instructed him to spy on the Kardashian family, accusing them of being involved in “sex trafficking.” Didn’t know lawsuits could be filed under John Doe but now we do.

The plaintiff also claims West directed him to hire private investigators to follow his wife, Bianca Censori, while she was visiting family in Australia.

That seems like a long way to send someone to get dirt on your own wife.

According to the lawsuit, West tasked John Doe with investigating the Kardashian family’s supposed links to criminal activities. The plaintiff recounts an incident in which West became enraged after the plaintiff reported a case of child abuse at West’s Donda Academy. In response, West allegedly screamed, “You’re f**king dead to me!” and played a recording of “scary voices,” which the plaintiff interpreted as a threat.

Get this, John Doe is suing for “retaliation and emotional distress,” stating that the events have taken a severe toll on his mental health, triggering PTSD from his military service.

He claims to have suffered from panic attacks and anxiety as a result. In addition, the plaintiff is seeking compensation for unpaid wages from his final pay periods. The ol’ emotional distress. Not a surprise here.

Hired by Yeezy, that’s the company btw, in December 2022 as a “deputy campaign director,” the plaintiff was later promoted to “director of intelligence.” His role included generating media strategies to maintain West’s relevance and addressing issues like recovering lost or stolen items. As of now, Kanye West has not responded to the lawsuit or the allegations.

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TD Bank Fined Record $3 Billion Over Claims of Money Laundering For Drug Cartel

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Are you a TD Bank account holder? If so, your bank has just been fined some real paper. TD Bank has agreed to pay $3 billion to settle charges related to its failure to adequately monitor money laundering by drug cartels. The settlement includes a $1.3 billion penalty paid to the U.S. Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), marking a record fine for a bank, and $1.8 billion to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). The bank will plead guilty to violating the Bank Secrecy Act.

The DOJ identified “long-term, pervasive, and systemic deficiencies” in TD’s anti-money laundering procedures. Between January 2018 and April 2024, more than 90% of TD Bank’s transactions went unmonitored, facilitating over $670 million in money laundering through its accounts by three separate networks. Attorney General Merrick Garland criticized the bank for making its services “convenient for criminals.” Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo added that TD Bank prioritized growth and profit over legal compliance, enabling drug trafficking that harmed American citizens.

Get this, one case involved TD employees accepting over $57,000 in gift cards to process $470 million in suspicious cash deposits without reporting them. The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) stated that the bank processed hundreds of millions in transactions that clearly signaled illegal activity. The OCC has restricted TD Bank’s growth in the U.S. as part of the settlement, a rare move seen previously with Wells Fargo following its 2018 scandal.

TD Bank CEO Bharat Masrani acknowledged the failures, apologizing and vowing to enhance the bank’s anti-money laundering capabilities. The bank is hiring over 700 specialists and implementing new processes to improve its financial crime prevention efforts. As part of the agreement, FinCEN will monitor TD Bank for four years to ensure compliance.

What’s more, TD Bank’s stock fell 6% following the announcement, and the company expects a $1.5 billion post-tax charge as a result. The settlement has drawn criticism from figures like Senator Elizabeth Warren, who argued that the penalties do not go far enough in holding bank executives accountable. TD Bank has faced previous legal challenges, including a $1.2 billion settlement last year over its involvement in a Ponzi scheme, though the bank denied wrongdoing in that case.

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