Brooklyn drill rapper Briscoe Bands, whose real name is Truron Roach-Martin, was fatally shot Wednesday morning near the Coney Island boardwalk, prompting an ongoing homicide investigation by the New York Police Department. Police said officers responded at about 9:20 a.m. to reports of gunfire near West 28th Street and Surf Avenue. Authorities found the 24-year-old with gunshot wounds to his face and chest. Emergency responders transported him to NYU Langone Hospital-Brooklyn, where he was pronounced dead. View this post on Instagram No arrests have been announced, and investigators have not identified a suspect or disclosed a possible motive. The investigation remains active. Briscoe Bands’s mother, Christine Roach, urged authorities to identify the shooter and expressed confidence the case would be solved. “This world is crazy,” she told the Daily News. “He didn’t bother nobody. Mark my words, this murderer will be caught, and he will be prosecuted.” She suggested her son’s growing success in the music industry may have contributed to the violence. Brooklyn Drill Rapper Briscoe Bands Shot To Death Near Coney Island Broardwalk “That’s what all this was about. Envy and jealousy,” Roach said. “His career was taking off. He was a young Black man coming up in the music business.” Briscoe Bands was signed to Rich Blocc Records. The label paid tribute on Instagram, writing, “Damn baby boy I love ya soul.” Briscoe Bands lived in Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood. He regularly traveled to Coney Island with his girlfriend, per mom. “We don’t know what happened,” she said. “We’re very much affected by this loss. My family doesn’t go through things like this. Everybody is hurting.” Briscoe Bands is survived by a 3-year-old daughter. “My son was loved,” Briscoe Bands said. “Find the person who killed my son.” The shooting occurred as gun violence remains a concern in the NYPD’s 60th Precinct, which covers Coney Island, Brighton Beach and Sea Gate. Authorities have not announced any charges, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Once closely linked through Gucci Mane’s 1017 Records, Gucci Mane and Pooh Shiesty now find themselves separated by a legal dispute. This dispute has steadily escalated over the past year. At the center are allegations tied to a kidnapping and robbery that prosecutors say were connected to efforts to force Shiesty’s exit from the label. What began as an internal rift in the music world has since developed into a federal case heading toward trial. As a result, it is drawing sustained attention from both fans and industry observers. Attention returned on Wednesday, July 1, after an alleged video began circulating online. The video spread across social platforms and fueled renewed discussion. The clip, shared by Livebitez on Instagram, appears to show Shiesty alongside another man confronting an individual wearing yellow clothing with his face obscured. Many viewers have speculated the figure is Gucci Mane, though that has not been confirmed. Footage has not been authenticated, and its origin remains unclear. Consequently, there is increasing uncertainty surrounding the recording now. View this post on Instagram Clip deepens scrutiny in Shiesty case Interest in the footage continued to build as the recording circulated. This prompted renewed debate about what the clip shows and how it has been interpreted in court filings. In the recording, a voice believed to be Gucci Mane says, “I dropped you, Pooh Shiesty’s dropped from 1017… Bro we just did that, that’s done. You dropped. You said you wanted to be dropped, you dropped,” a moment that has drawn legal attention. Another portion of the clip shows Pooh Shiesty appearing to respond directly, saying, “Let them know you dropping me… Real n***a, ain’t never did no police s**t or none of that. Tell them what’s going on.” Neither artist has confirmed the authenticity of the recording. Additionally, screenshots from the same footage have reportedly appeared in court filings, where prosecutors have cited them while opposing bond requests tied to Shiesty’s ongoing case. Shiesty remains charged alongside eight co-defendants, including his father Lontrell Williams Sr. and rapper Big30. All of them deny the allegations. The case is scheduled for trial on February 22, 2027, a date that continues to draw attention across the music industry. Uncertainty continues to surround proceedings.

Nearly three decades after Tupac Shakur’s killing in Las Vegas, the case is returning to court with renewed scrutiny focused on Duane “Keefe D” Davis. Davis has long been identified as a central suspect awaiting trial. A recent ruling in Clark County permits portions of Davis’s memoir, Compton Street Legend, to be introduced as evidence, according to CBS 8 News Now. This adds new complexity to an already closely watched proceeding. That development drew attention from both prosecutors and defense attorneys. Meanwhile, the long-running case inches toward trial preparation. Defense attorneys objected to the inclusion of the memoir and earlier Los Angeles Police Department interviews. They argue that both were subject to prior understandings they believe should keep them out of court. Moreover, they maintain Compton Street Legend blends fact and narrative in ways that could mislead jurors if introduced without careful context. The defense has suggested material risks prejudicing the jury before all evidentiary questions are fully resolved. Davis case deepens as rulings loom Prosecutors counter the memoir reinforces their case. They point to passages they say describe Davis’s involvement in events tied to the 1996 shooting of Tupac Shakur. Several key rulings are pending, including whether police interview recordings will be admitted. Additionally, rulings on how jurors will be selected and isolated during trial remain undecided. The trial is scheduled to begin on August 10, and those decisions are expected to shape what the jury ultimately hears. Outside the courtroom, new allegations have surfaced involving jailhouse recordings in which Davis discusses the case. However, it is not yet clear whether prosecutors will rely on them at trial. In a separate lawsuit, Maurice “Mopreme” Shakur, Tupac’s stepbrother, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit naming Davis and others. He is seeking damages related to the 1996 killing. Over shifting statements, Davis’s account has moved between denial and partial acknowledgment. As a result, courts must weigh inconsistencies as the case approaches its next phase.

Young M.A is responding to renewed attention surrounding comments she made about dating women; reactions pulled meaning from short clips. In a recent interview with Nessa on HOT 97, she said the reaction to her Club Shay Shay appearance missed the intent behind her words and created a narrative she does not fully recognize. The discussion reflects how she views her experiences rather than how they were interpreted publicly. She rejected the idea there was anything to clarify, pointing instead to personal experience as the basis for her remarks. “It’s not really nothing to explain because I stand on that,” the 34-year-old “OOOUUU” rapper said. “Like, it’s really my life. It’s really what I experience.” She added that the conversation reflected lived reality rather than a position shaped for public reaction. Young M.A Defines Attraction Beyond Labels Her Club Shay Shay interview examined women she has dated and how they identify. When Sharpe asked whether she was “flipping” women, she responded, “I wouldn’t say flip. See, a lot of people get that misconstrued. Women that I end up dating don’t mean they [are] just gay—no. They still like men, they just attracted to me and that’s it. After me they move back on to men, that’s it.” He asked, “So it’s not a situation they need to be gay or they need to be straight, or X Y and Z?” She answered, “Nah. I prefer straight,” She discussed relationships, saying attraction is one part of a broader dynamic. “I got to know you have some type of attraction for me before I even take any type of initiative,” she said. “I just got to have that intuition first. Other than that, I’m not pressed. I’m not nobody body. No female can come to the internet and be like ‘Look, Young M.A be on me.’ Never ever.”

Few artist relationships have shaped modern hip-hop quite like the one between Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj. From chart-topping collaborations to Wayne’s role in introducing Minaj to a broader audience, their careers have remained closely connected for well over a decade. Even as both artists have carved out distinct legacies, the respect they continue to express for one another has never seemed performative or obligatory. That admiration surfaced again during Lil Wayne’s appearance on DJ Drama’s Gangsta Grillz Podcast. Although the interview was recorded in 2023, the complete conversation was officially released this week. This gave listeners one of Wayne’s increasingly uncommon long-form interviews. Because he rarely sits down to reflect on his career in this setting, the episode offered a revealing look at how he views both his peers and the culture around him. One discussion centered on Verzuz, the performance series that has paired some of music’s biggest names in catalog battles. Wayne made it clear he has little interest in participating, explaining that he does not believe the format suits him. In his view, the matchup would be too one-sided to make for a compelling competition. Wayne Defends Nicki Minaj’s Lasting Influence The conversation later turned to Nicki Minaj and the influence she has had on rap over the past decade and a half. Wayne credited her with helping redefine the landscape for women in mainstream hip-hop. He argued that her impact reaches further than many people acknowledge. “I believe she’s responsible for a lot of artists we see out here that probably won’t admit that,” Wayne said. His comments add to a longstanding conversation about influence, legacy, and recognition within hip-hop. Public opinion surrounding artists inevitably shifts over time. However, Minaj’s place in the genre’s history continues to be widely discussed by fans, critics, and fellow musicians alike. Wayne, meanwhile, remains focused on the next chapter of his own catalog, with anticipation continuing to build around the eventual arrival of Tha Carter VII.

Cash Cobain, the Bronx-born rapper, singer, producer, and pioneer of the “sexy drill” movement has become one of the most influential voices in the game, blending melodic hooks, infectious production, and undeniable energy into a sound that’s impossible to ignore. Since breaking onto the scene in 2018, Cash has evolved from one of New York’s most sought-after producers into a charting artist with collaborations alongside Drake, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Cardi B, J. Cole, Don Toliver, Justin Bieber, Ice Spice, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, and more. His breakout records like “Fisherrr,” “Rump Punch,” “Grippy,” and his feature on Don Toliver’s “Attitude” helped introduce his signature sound to audiences worldwide, while his debut album Play Cash Cobain cemented his place as one of hip-hop’s fastest-rising stars. Today, Cash Cobain boasts nearly 4 million monthly Spotify listeners, more than 1 million followers across streaming platforms, and hundreds of millions of streams globally—proof that his movement continues to grow every day. Now, Cash Cobain is bringing that energy to one of hip-hop’s biggest stages—HOT 97 Summer Jam 2026. Fans can expect an unforgettable performance packed with viral hits, surprise moments, and the hometown energy that has made him one of New York’s favorite artists. Don’t miss your chance to experience one of the culture’s hottest stars live. Grab your tickets now and be part of the biggest night in hip-hop at HOT 97 Summer Jam!

Sexyy Red is asking a court to remove her from the late producer Tay Keith’s unpaid royalties lawsuit, arguing that artists do not control producer payments and should not be held responsible for record label business decisions. According to a letter obtained by TMZ, the St. Louis rapper submitted the request on June 6, only days before Tay Keith’s death. The Grammy-winning producer had sued Sexyy Red’s record label over alleged unpaid royalties and included the rapper as a defendant. In the emotional letter, Sexyy Red said she was shocked to learn she had been named in the case. “I recently learned that I was named as a defendant,” she wrote. “I am appalled and furthermore hurt by the allegations made.” View this post on Instagram The rapper insisted she has no authority over royalty payments, telling the court, “I am an artist who is not allowed to pay producers. All of this is handled by the record label.” Sexyy Red also highlighted her close relationship with Tay Keith, describing him as both a trusted collaborator and a friend. “Tay Keith and I are great working partners and even greater friends,” she wrote. “If the label owes him money, I’m sure they have started the process to get him paid.” Rapper Sexyy Red Asks The Judge To Drop Tay Keith Case In Emotional Letter She added that delayed payments affect artists as well, writing, “There are several songs that Tay Keith and I have worked on together that I haven’t received payment for yet. It’s just a process the label uses in making payments after all the monies are recouped.” The lawsuit alleges Tay Keith produced 13 songs for Sexyy Red in 2024 without receiving compensation. Both sides, however, agree the dispute centers on the record labels rather than the artist herself. Label attorney Dameka Davis said, “Royalty negotiations are handled by labels — not artists.” It was also added that the company had worked with Tay Keith’s legal team to finalize a royalty agreement. A representative for Tay Keith echoed that position. They state, “The dispute is between the parties’ respective labels, and naming Sexyy Red in the lawsuit was a legal formality. Any allegations are directed at the label, not Red personally.” Sexyy Red has asked the court to dismiss her from the case while the royalty dispute continues between the parties.

Rap star Lil Uzi Vert is taking Oro House Recovery Centers to court, according to new lawsuit reported over the weekend by People Magazine’s Charna Flam and Marissa G. Muller.  The “I Just Wanna Rock” hitmaker, whose legal name is Symere Bysil Woods, is pursuing confidentiality claims against Oro House Recovery Centers. He alleges a rehabilitation facility employee unlawfully recorded a confidential therapy session. Uzi claims Oro House allowed the recording to circulate on social media, according to court filings. View this post on Instagram Woods filed suit in Los Angeles County Superior Court in June 2024 against Oro House Recovery Centers’ Acadia Malibu facility, employee Lynn Tumpa and Tumpa’s minor nephew. Woods, who uses they/them pronouns, alleges the defendants violated federal and California privacy laws by recording treatment sessions without consent and disclosing confidential medical information. According to the complaint, Woods entered the Malibu treatment center in February 2022 and participated in individual and group therapy while receiving substance abuse treatment. The lawsuit alleges Tumpa secretly recorded part of a therapy session and shared the recording with her nephew. The video later appeared on X in February 2024 and on Instagram in April 2024. Lil Uzi Vert Files Lawsuit Against Oro House Recovery Centers Over Leaked Information During 2022 Rehab Although the complaint does not identify who ultimately uploaded the recording, Woods alleges Tumpa was “the source” and disseminated the video either directly or indirectly. The complaint asserts claims for breach of contract, negligent hiring, negligent supervision, negligent retention, breach of confidentiality under the California Confidentiality of Medical Information Act, invasion of privacy, intrusion upon seclusion, breach of fiduciary duty and intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress. Woods seeks compensatory, punitive and statutory damages. The litigation recently centered on a discovery dispute concerning Woods’ deposition. Defense counsel moved to compel Woods to appear for a deposition in California. Woods opposed the request, offering instead to testify in New York, where they reside, or remotely by videoconference. On June 23, the court denied the motion. It concluded that a nonresident plaintiff cannot be compelled to appear for deposition in California. The court stated that such a deposition must occur within the United States. It must also be within 75 miles of the deponent’s residence or business office. They also declined to impose monetary sanctions. “The Court reached the right decision here,” Woods’ attorney, David Moreno, said. “We look forward to taking this case to trial.” The action remains pending, and the court has not ruled on the merits of Woods’ allegations.

A California superior court judge entered a default judgment awarding nearly $38,100 to plaintiff Lashala Irby in her civil assault suit against entertainer Chrisean Rock, concluding that the evidence did not support the full $250,000 in damages she sought. The decision followed a default prove-up hearing in Burbank Superior Court after Chrisean Rock, whose legal name is Chrisean Eugenia Malone, did not appear or otherwise participate in the litigation. Judge Frank M. Tavelman heard Irby’s testimony before issuing a written ruling granting substantially less than the requested award. Irby alleged she suffered significant physical injuries and emotional distress during an encounter with Rock at a Jan. 22, 2023, premiere event in North Hollywood. Although the plaintiff sought approximately $250,000 in damages, the court determined the evidence supported a far smaller recovery. In his ruling, Tavelman found Irby failed to substantiate the level of general damages requested. “Here, plaintiff did not provide sufficient evidence to support an award of more than $230,000 in general damages,” the judge wrote. “Her testimony regarding embarrassment and helplessness was brief and lacked detail concerning the severity or ongoing impact of these feelings.” Judge Rules $40K Default Judgement To Lashala Irby After Chrisean Rock No-Showed The court nevertheless concluded that the continued circulation of video depicting the alleged altercation supported an award for emotional distress. According to the ruling, the video’s ongoing dissemination provided “a reasonable basis for an award of general damages.” In a sworn declaration, Irby said the alleged assault caused lasting emotional harm because footage of the incident remains publicly accessible. “I was violently assaulted by a well-known celebrity and that assault was captured on video that continues to circulate across the internet to this day,” Irby stated. She added that “the ongoing public exposure of the alleged assault has magnified my suffering in a way that words can hardly capture.” Irby further alleged the encounter began cordially before Rock allegedly attacked her “suddenly and without warning.” Court filings also noted that Rock did not contest the allegations. Irby argued the defendant “has refused to appear in this case, leaving her conduct unchallenged.” Before obtaining the default judgment, Irby reached a tentative $35,000 settlement with Zeus Networks LLC and MGP XI-GPI Laurel Plaza LLC, resolving her claims against those parties. The judgment issued by Burbank Superior Court applies solely to the claims against Rock.

A Los Angeles jury has awarded nearly $13.9 million to a housekeeper and her family after finding R&B singer Chris Brown and his company, Black Pyramid LLC, liable for negligence arising from a 2020 dog attack at Brown’s Tarzana, California, residence. The verdict followed a two-week trial in Los Angeles Superior Court, where jurors concluded that Maria Avila sustained catastrophic injuries after Hades, a 200-pound Caucasian shepherd kept on the property, attacked her while she was taking out the trash. View this post on Instagram The jury awarded Maria Avila approximately $12.9 million in compensatory damages. Her sister, Patricia Avila, received $885,000 for emotional distress, while Maria Avila’s husband, Oscar Olivo, was awarded $50,000 for loss of consortium. Avila alleged Brown failed to protect employees from a dangerous animal despite knowing the risks. Brown disputed that claim, maintaining the dog served as a security animal rather than a personal pet. He testified that he warned Maria and Patricia Avila not to enter areas where the dogs were present without security personnel. Both sisters denied receiving those instructions and testified that language differences made such a conversation unlikely. Chris Brown Ordered To Pay $13 Million To Maria Avila In Dog Mauling Lawsuit Jurors also heard testimony concerning Brown’s response after the attack. Brown testified that he found Maria Avila lying in “a lot of blood” and said, “The blood kind of freaked me out.” He further testified, “I’m in shock,” explaining his decision to leave the property because he feared creating a “media circus” if he remained while emergency responders arrived. Maria Avila testified that the attack caused permanent physical injuries and lasting psychological trauma. According to her testimony, multiple surgeries and skin grafts left significant facial and arm scarring, limited mobility and post-traumatic stress that has prevented her from returning to housekeeping work. Her daughter, Yoseline Espinoza, testified, “She’s not the same. She used to have a spark in her,” describing the emotional and social effects of her mother’s injuries. Following the verdict, the family’s attorney, Michael C. Murphy Jr., said, “After more than five years of litigating against Chris Brown, we are thrilled that we were able to get justice. We are so happy for her and her family after everything they went through on that horrible day.” The civil judgment resolves the negligence claims tried before the jury. Brown separately faces unrelated criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom that remain pending.