PART 1: Tsu Surf sits down with DJ Drewski on Hot 97’s Midday Movement for his first in-depth interview since coming home from a 4-year federal bid. Fresh off his surprise Summer Jam performance with Fetty Wap, Surf opens up about everything — surviving being shot five times, the spiritual recalibration that changed his mindset behind bars, and why he refused to jump right back into the streets upon release. He breaks down his approach to battle rap vs. his music career, explaining why a potential Murda Mook battle has to make business sense for the team, and how he’s transcended the battle rap world with records alongside Chris Brown, G Herbo, Coi Leray, and more. Surf also shares incredible stories of support during his bid — from Chris Brown checking on his mom and daughter, to Kevin Durant handing him $50,000 in cash within 48 hours of getting home. The conversation also tackles a bigger conversation about New Jersey hip-hop: why Jersey artists aren’t collaborating enough, the need for a unified front, and Surf’s vision for a DJ Drewski x Tsu Surf Jersey collaborative tape. With a new project on the way and a Coi Leray record dropping soon, Tsu Surf is locked in, focused, and ready to prove he came home stronger than he left.
Druski on Backing Drake During Kendrick Lamar Battle: “That’s My Brother”
Druski is addressing the viral speculation surrounding his loyalty during the highly publicized musical feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar. In a new cover story for GQ, the Atlanta native clarified that his personal relationship with the Canadian superstar remains unshaken despite the industry-wide tension that defined much of the past two years. “That’s my brother. I don’t care about what’s hot at the moment or what’s going on,” Druski said regarding his friendship with Drake. He emphasized that his support for the rapper was a matter of principle rather than a professional calculation, adding that he is “big on loyalty” and simply stood by a friend throughout the ordeal. The professional relationship between the two stars dates back to 2020 when Druski made a memorable appearance in the “Laugh Now Cry Later” music video. That collaboration occurred just as Druski’s digital comedy sketches were beginning to catapult him into mainstream stardom. According to the comedian, Drake was one of the first major industry figures to embrace his talent early in his career. Public scrutiny regarding Druski’s stance intensified following a series of viral clips from an awards show in June 2025. Fans on social media suggested the footage showed Druski intentionally avoiding Kendrick Lamar backstage to avoid appearing disloyal to Drake. Druski, however, dismissed these claims as a misunderstanding fueled by internet culture. “That was not intentional,” Druski said while laughing during the interview. He explained that social media users often take short clips out of context to spin narratives that fit their own theories. While fans at the time debated whether the comedian was being a dedicated friend or an unnecessary participant in a rap war, Druski maintains there was no malice behind the encounter. The comedian’s defense of his friendship comes as he transitions into a significant film career. Druski is slated to appear in the upcoming baseball-themed romantic comedy “The Catch,” starring alongside Academy Award winner Emma Stone and Chris Pine. The film is directed by Dave McCary. Stone praised her co-star’s work ethic and collaborative spirit during the production. She told GQ that the comedian is “incredibly generous” and noted that he consistently uses the word “we” instead of “I” when discussing the creative process. As Druski moves into the world of major motion pictures, he appears intent on maintaining the same personal ties that helped him rise to fame.
Yung Miami Opens Up About Battling ‘Deep Depression’ Before “Spend Dat” Took Off
Yung Miami recently detailed her struggle with mental health challenges, revealing that she fell into a “deep depression” before her solo career found its footing. During a recent interview, Miami discussed the emotional toll of transitioning into a solo act. The Florida native explained that the shift away from her former partner JT and the subsequent public scrutiny of her early solo releases led to periods of isolation. “I plan on just letting people really know, you know, what it took me to get here, because it took a lot,” Yung Miami said. She noted that while she appears positive now, she was not always happy. The rapper, whose legal name is Caresha Brownlee, said she used her work ethic as a coping mechanism to avoid falling further into despair. She says that she intentionally kept a packed schedule to keep negative thoughts at bay, often requesting studio time the moment she felt her mood dipping. “When you have a lot of time to think, that’s when you get pulled into that deep depression,” she said. “I’m around people, I’m doing something I love—music. But I ain’t gone lie, there was some days where I was just laying in the bed crying.” The period of struggle preceded the massive success of her single “Spend Dat,” which eventually climbed to No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a staple of summer playlists. The success marked a significant turnaround for the rapper after her previous track, “Tea Time,” received a mixed reaction from fans. Yung Miami also announced plans to release a documentary that will provide a behind-the-scenes look at the highs and lows of her solo journey. She said the film will clarify the narrative surrounding her career, which she believes has been misunderstood by critics. Despite the difficult transition from the group dynamic of the City Girls, which released its final album “RAW” in 2023, the rapper said she has learned to “trust the process.” She emphasized that staying active in the recording booth allowed her to process her emotions productively rather than being overwhelmed by social media criticism.
Jamie Foxx Announces Hulu Comedy Special “Take Care Of Yourself”
Award-winning comedian Jamie Foxx is returning to his comedy roots with “Take Care of Yourself,” a new stand-up special premiering Oct. 7 on Hulu. The streamer announced the special Thursday, revealing its title, premiere date and first-look image. U.S. viewers can watch the special on Hulu, while eligible bundle subscribers can access it through Hulu on Disney+. “Take Care of Yourself” marks Foxx’s latest project under Hulu’s Hularious comedy banner. The Academy Award-winning actor, comedian, singer and producer takes a personal approach in the new hour. View this post on Instagram Hulu characterizes the special as Foxx’s “most honest, evolved, and unforgettable chapter yet.” The description also points to themes of self-care and personal growth. The project arrives as Foxx continues a career spanning stand-up, television, film and music. His comedy work helped establish the versatility that later fueled his Hollywood career. Award-winning Comedic Actor Jamie Foxx Prepares New Comedy Special, “Take Care Of Yourself,” On Hulu Foxx’s Hularious special also places him among a broad collection of contemporary comedy performers. The lineup includes Hannah Berner, Ralph Barbosa, Bill Burr and Chris DiStefano. Jim Gaffigan, Zarna Garg and Nikki Glaser are also featured. The roster includes Ilana Glazer, Jessica Kirson, Matteo Lane and Sebastian Maniscalco. Kumail Nanjiani, Atsuko Okatsuka and Frankie Quiñones also appear under the Hularious banner. Andrew Santino and Roy Wood Jr. round out the announced lineup. For Hulu, Foxx’s special adds a major name to its stand-up slate. For Foxx, it represents a return to a foundational part of his entertainment career. The comedian has long moved between genres and mediums. He has earned acclaim for dramatic performances while maintaining his identity as a performer rooted in comedy. Hulu has not disclosed the special’s runtime or whether it includes guest appearances. The streamer’s first-look announcement gives audiences an early glimpse at Foxx’s latest comedy chapter. “Jamie Foxx: Take Care of Yourself” premieres Oct. 7 on Hulu. The special will also stream internationally on Disney+.
Hit-Boy Raps About Allstar JR’s Houston Shooting On New ‘HIStory 2’ Track “FRIDAY”
Grammy-winning producer Hit-Boy turns a reference to the rapper Allstar JR’s recent Houston shooting into one of the sharper lines on his new album HIStory 2. On “FRIDAY,” featuring Dom Kennedy, Hit-Boy raps, “Slide on me / I go Allstar JR if it’s a setup / if it’s really bustin’, I buy a Baby Veneta.” The bar references Detroit rapper Allstar JR, whose real name is Jeremy Christopher Ford, and an April 8 shooting at Confessions restaurant in Houston. @TheJusticeDept v. @BigR2724: On the new album, HIStory 2: Success Is A Dirty Word, 3x Grammy (@RecordingAcad)-winning super producer Hit-Boy (@Hit_Boy) referenced Allstar JR’s shooting at Confessions restaurant in Houston, Texas, that left NBA Youngboy-affiliate… pic.twitter.com/4Xjq5QF3NN — Bryson “Boom” Paul (@brysonboompaul) August 15, 2026 Federal prosecutors allege Ford was involved in an altercation that escalated into gunfire after several people approached him during what authorities described as an attempted robbery. Prosecutors allege a handgun fell during the struggle before Ford picked it up and fired. The shooting left Louisiana rapper and NBA YoungBoy affiliate NBA Ben10 with severe spinal injuries, according to reports. Deadend Ron also suffered a gunshot wound that resulted in the amputation of fingers. Hit-Boy Drops A Line About Rapper Allstar JR & Houston Shooting In New Song, “FRIDAY,” On HIStory 2 Hit-Boy’s “Allstar JR” reference draws a direct line between the song’s language and the Houston incident. The phrase “if it’s a setup” suggests suspicion about an ambush, while “slide” carries a familiar meaning in hip-hop of moving toward a confrontation. The following bar sharply changes the imagery. “If it’s really bustin’, I buy a Baby Veneta” moves from the threat of violence to luxury fashion. “Baby Veneta” refers to Bottega Veneta’s smaller handbag design. The reference turns the situation into a trending topic once again. Hit-Boy frames himself as prepared for danger while keeping one foot in the world of wealth and status. Ford now faces a federal firearm possession case and remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty. His federal trial is scheduled for Aug. 31 in Houston. Released Aug. 14, HIStory 2 finds Hit-Boy blending contemporary rap references with the luxury-minded imagery that has long defined his production and songwriting.
Timbaland Sued By DJ Claiming Termination For Producer’s Son
Legendary producer Timbaland is facing a lawsuit from DJ E Feezy over an alleged $120,000 loss tied to Missy Elliott’s 2024 “Out of This World” tour. E Feezy claims Timbaland removed him from the arena tour less than a month before its launch. He alleges Timbaland’s son then took his position, calling the decision an act of nepotism. View this post on Instagram The lawsuit centers on whether the parties reached an enforceable agreement. E Feezy claims he had secured the booking and prepared for the international tour before losing the opportunity. He says the engagement would have generated about $120,000. The DJ also claims he incurred expenses while obtaining Canadian work authorization for the tour. E Feezy alleges the parties later reached a settlement to resolve the dispute. He now claims Timbaland failed to comply with its terms. The DJ is seeking roughly $130,000 in damages, according to TMZ. His claims include the lost tour income and expenses associated with preparing for the engagement. DJ E Feezy Files Lawsuit Against Timbaland, Claiming The Producer Fired Him To Hire His Son Timbaland disputes the allegations and has asked the court to dismiss the case. He contends that no enforceable agreement existed under the terms E Feezy describes. The producer also has turned to the courts against his former manager. Timbaland alleges the manager handled negotiations surrounding the DJ’s proposed tour role. Timbaland argues that any financial liability should rest with the former manager if E Feezy ultimately establishes a valid claim. The competing filings place the alleged agreement at the heart of the litigation. E Feezy maintains that Timbaland and Mosley Touring were obligated to compensate him. Timbaland maintains that no binding contract required payment. His defense also challenges E Feezy’s account of the settlement. The nepotism allegation adds another layer to the dispute. E Feezy contends Timbaland’s son replaced him after the producer removed him from the tour. The lawsuit itself does not establish wrongdoing by Timbaland. The allegations remain contested, and the court has not resolved the claims. The case will turn on the alleged touring agreement and subsequent settlement. It also could determine who bears responsibility for E Feezy’s claimed losses.
WNBA Legend Nneka Ogwumike To Retire After 2026 Season
Nneka Ogwumike, WNBA champion, league MVP, and 11-time All-Star announced her retirement following the 2026 season. Ogwumike confirmed the news in an exclusive interview with Taylor Rooks for Boardroom. “I’ve learned there’s power in knowing when to walk away. For so long, that strength meant finding a way to keep pushing. Now, it means recognizing when you feel complete. I find myself grateful, fulfilled, and at peace with everything this game has given me and everything I’ve poured into it,” Ogwumike said. “Playing in the W for 15 seasons has given me far more than I ever imagined. I’ve been challenged as a competitor, shaped as a leader, and exposed to unforgettable people and experiences,” she continued. “I can stand proudly as the player I’ve become, and even more proud of the woman I am becoming.” Selected first overall in 2012, Ogwumike steps away as an iconic pioneer of modern basketball. Her stellar resume boasts 2012 Rookie of the Year honors, a 2016 WNBA championship and MVP title, 11 All-Star nods, eight All-WNBA appearances, seven All-Defensive selections, and a spot on “The W25” list of the top 25 players in league history. WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert lauded Ogwumike in a statement “There is no telling the story of the WNBA’s recent growth and evolution without Nneka Ogwumike,” Engelbert said. “Her extraordinary career has been defined not only by excellence. But by the way she has led and lifted those around her. She is a champion and MVP, one of the most accomplished players of all time. And a fierce competitor who has represented the very best our game has to offer. For 15 seasons, Nneka has led with grace and conviction, competing with an unmistakable spark. And carried herself with a generosity and thoughtfulness that have earned the admiration of everyone across our game.
REVOLT Steps Into The Ring With TNA Wrestling
TNA Wrestling is partnering with REVOLT to bring exclusive matches and special events to REVOLT and REVOLT SPORTS this fall. Accoring to news release, audiences will gain access to exclusive action alongside premium highlights from TNA’s 24-year vault. “Our industry spends a lot of time trying to predict where culture is going. At REVOLT, we pay attention to the people moving culture,” said Deon Graham, chief content officer of REVOLT and its parent company, Offscript Worldwide. “Hip Hop and wrestling have been connected for decades through storytelling, larger-than-life characters, and community. That’s exactly why this partnership with TNA feels so natural.” “We’re excited to partner with REVOLT to further expand TNA’s worldwide reach,” TNA Wrestling President Carlos Silva added. Currently TNA’s roster includes World Champion Nic Nemeth and World Tag Team champions Matt and Jeff Hardy, collectively known as The Hardys. Also, Indi Hartwell, Moose, A.J. Francis, Leon Slater, Cedric Alexander, and Ricky Sosa. Founded in 2002 by Jeff and Jerry Jarrett, TNA emerged to fill the vacuum left by the closures of WCW and ECW Initially operating via weekly pay-per-views aligned with the National Wrestling Alliance, Panda Energy acquired a controlling interest, paving the way for the company’s signature television show, TNA Impact!, which launched in 2004. The promotion gained a massive cult following on Spike TV starting in 2005. THE HISTORY OF TNA WRESTLING During its golden era, TNA carved out a unique identity. It featured its iconic six-sided ring, high-flying X-Division matches, and a trailblazing Knockouts women’s division. Homegrown talent like AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, and Christopher Daniels alongside established superstars like Kurt Angle and Sting. A high-risk pivot in 2010 under the direction of Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff—attempting to challenge WWE head-to-head on Monday nights—led to creative instability and severe financial strain. Following years of ownership turmoil, channel moves, and a prolonged rebrand to Impact Wrestling, Anthem Sports & Entertainment acquired the company in 2017, stabilizing its operations before officially restoring the historic TNA Wrestling moniker in 2024 to solidify its place as a enduring mainstay in professional wrestling.
Milwaukee Rappers Lil Shiesty & Funny $money Murdered In Daytime Studio Shooting
Milwaukee rappers Lil Shiesty and Funny $money were fatally shot Monday inside a music studio, authorities said. The victims were identified as Dequaiseon D. Evans, 21, and Quentene E. Williams, 33. Both men were Milwaukee residents and died at the scene. Police discovered the men inside a studio in a commercial building near 31st Street and Cameron Avenue. A 28-year-old person has been arrested in connection with the double shooting. Authorities have not released details about a possible motive. Investigators are still working to determine what preceded the gunfire. Family members identified Evans as rapper Funny $money at the scene. His sister, Quita, described him as someone known for his humor and music. “My brother was a funny person; he’s a rapper,” Quita said. “This situation, I don’t even know what happened.” Milwaukee Rappers Lil Shiesty & Funny $money Killed In Daytime Recording Studio Shooting Evans was reportedly at the studio with Williams, his mentor, when the shooting occurred. Evans’ nephew, TJ, recalled his final conversation with his uncle. “The last thing I said to my uncle was, ‘I love you and be safe,’” TJ said. “He said, ‘I’m always safe.’ That was it.” Williams, who performed as Lil Shiesty, was an active figure in Milwaukee’s hip-hop community. He released a video for his latest single, “Goldie/I Ain’t Lying,” on Aug. 14. The release came during a prolific stretch for the independent rapper. Williams released “Paid But Not Full, Vol. 1” earlier this year. The album followed several 2025 projects, including “Streets Calling,” “Don’t Talk 2 Much Vol. 4,” “Uncomparable” and “Sorry I Was Trapping.” The deaths have reverberated through Milwaukee’s rap community. The music connected them. Police have not said what charges the arrested person may face. The investigation remains active as detectives work to reconstruct the shooting.
Young Thug Faces Backlash After Telling Middle Schoolers ‘Fame Is Most Important’
Young Thug visited students at Cirrus Academy Charter School this week to deliver a candid lecture on the weight of celebrity and the necessity of discipline when achieving high-level success. During the assembly, the influential musician emphasized that cultural capital often carries as much weight as financial wealth, urging the middle schoolers to prepare themselves for the scrutiny that comes with a public platform. Young Thug, whose legal name is Jeffrey Williams, addressed the crowded room alongside his manager, Isaiah Reid. The rapper told the students that maintaining a reputation requires a level of strategic precision he described as “militant.” He argued that for many individuals in the entertainment industry, fame serves as a primary currency that can open doors previously closed to them. “So fame is really the most important,” Young Thug told the gathered students. “If you famous, you almost as important as the richest person in the world. So fame is like more so the money for us. So fame is really the most important.” The rapper further explained that visibility requires a shift in lifestyle and personal security. He cautioned the youth that once a person gains a following, they must be intentional about their associations and their environment. He noted that achieving longevity in the spotlight requires one to “always make sure it leads to the right room” and to “move totally different” than the average citizen. The surprise school visit took place amid significant developments for the rapper’s family. Just days prior to the event, Young Thug’s older brother, Quantavious Grier, was released from Macon State Prison. Grier, who performs under the stage name Unfoonk, was granted parole on Aug. 11 after serving time for a probation violation stemming from the widely publicized YSL RICO case. Grier had originally accepted a plea deal in 2022 that commuted a 12-year sentence to time served plus a decade of probation. However, he returned to custody in 2023 following a traffic stop where authorities reportedly discovered a firearm, leading to a new sentence of nine years and six months. Neither brother has made a public statement regarding Grier’s recent release.