Harlem native, Max B, will take the stage at HOT 97 Summer Jam– and fans simply cannot wait. Born Charly Wingate, Max B emerged during the mid-2000s and quickly built a devoted following through his distinctive melodies, charismatic personality, and unique approach to songwriting. Often referred to as “The Wave God,” Max helped pioneer a melodic style that would go on to influence an entire generation of artists across hip-hop and R&B. His projects, including Public Domain, Million Dollar Baby, and Quarantine, became underground classics and helped establish him as one of New York’s most influential voices. Despite spending years away from the spotlight, Max B’s impact on hip-hop never faded. His music continued to resonate with fans, while countless artists cited his melodic flows, hooks, and creative style as an inspiration. Over time, his influence could be heard throughout the evolution of modern rap, helping shape sounds that would become dominant across the genre. For New York hip-hop fans, Max B represents more than music—he represents an era, a movement, and a cultural influence that continues to be felt today. His return to the stage is a moment many fans have waited years to witness. View this post on Instagram Now, that moment arrives at HOT 97 Summer Jam. HOT 97 Summer Jam has always been a stage where hip-hop history is made, and Max B’s return is another reminder of the culture’s enduring connection to New York City. Don’t miss Max B live at HOT 97 Summer Jam as the Wave God returns to one of hip-hop’s biggest stages. Get your tickets here.

Few artists embody the spirit of New York hip-hop quite like French Montana, and this year fans will have the chance to see the Bronx hitmaker take the stage at HOT 97 Summer Jam. Born Karim Kharbouch in Casablanca, Morocco, French Montana immigrated to the Bronx at a young age and went on to build one of the most successful careers in modern hip-hop. Over the years, he has become known for his signature sound, global appeal, and ability to create records that dominate clubs, radio, and streaming platforms alike. French first gained recognition through his Cocaine City DVD series before breaking into the mainstream with a string of hit singles that helped establish him as one of hip-hop’s most recognizable artists. His debut studio album, Excuse My French, arrived in 2013 and featured standout tracks such as “Pop That” and “Freaks.” He followed that success with chart-topping projects and platinum-certified records that expanded his reach worldwide. Throughout his career, French Montana has delivered some of hip-hop’s biggest records, including “Unforgettable” featuring Swae Lee, one of the most successful songs of the streaming era. The track became a global phenomenon, earned diamond certification in the United States, and remains one of the most-streamed hip-hop songs ever released. His catalog also includes fan favorites such as “No Stylist,” “Ain’t Worried About Nothin’,” “All The Way Up,” and numerous collaborations with some of music’s biggest stars. Beyond music, French has become known for his philanthropic efforts around the world, supporting healthcare and educational initiatives in Uganda and other communities in need. His commitment to giving back has earned him recognition beyond the entertainment industry and reflects the impact he continues to make off the stage. Now, French Montana is bringing his energy, hit records, and undeniable stage presence to HOT 97 Summer Jam. As a longtime fixture in New York hip-hop culture, his appearance adds another exciting chapter to the festival’s legacy of showcasing some of the biggest names in music. From chart-topping anthems to fan-favorite classics, French Montana’s Summer Jam performance promises to deliver the type of unforgettable moments that have made the event a staple of hip-hop culture for decades. Don’t miss French Montana live at HOT 97 Summer Jam as he joins an incredible lineup for one of the year’s most anticipated music events. Get your tickets here. View this post on Instagram

Rapper-turned-sports analyst Cam’Ron is disappointed by longtime friend, Dame Dash, new diss track, titled “Cheap Teeth,” directed at former business partner JAŸ-Z. Killa Cam would describe the track as “embarrassing.” On June 15, Dash shared a snippet of a song titled “Cheap Teeth” on Instagram. The track features Dash alongside artist Nicky Licky and includes lyrics targeting both hip-hop figures. Rather than sparking excitement, the preview triggered a wave of criticism across social media. The diss record arrives after months of public shots exchanged between Dash and members of the Roc-A-Fella circle. Cam’ron has frequently joked about Dash on social media and on his sports and culture program, It Is What It Is. Jay-Z also appeared to reference his former business partner during a recent performance at the Roots Picnic, reigniting discussion about the fractured relationships that emerged after Roc-A-Fella’s rise and eventual split. Rapper Cam’Ron Rips “Embarrassing” Dame Dash’s JAŸ-Z Diss Track “Cheap Teeth” Instead of shifting the narrative, “Cheap Teeth” quickly became the subject of online ridicule. One of the most viral reactions came from Cam’ron himself. The Harlem rapper entered the comment section and delivered a blunt assessment of the track. “All jokes aside, I really have second hand embarrassment. This is sad. I’m sorry everyone that he turned out like this. We’re gonna do a case study to see what happened to him,” Cam wrote. His comment immediately spread across social media platforms, generating thousands of reactions from hip-hop fans. Many listeners shared a similar opinion. Critics questioned the song’s quality and Dash’s decision to step behind the microphone. One user summed up the mood with a short but direct response: “WTF IS THIS TRASH LOL.” The latest exchange adds another layer to one of rap’s longest-running feuds. Dash, Jay-Z and Cam’ron once helped shape the Roc-A-Fella era, a movement that influenced hip-hop throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s. Business disagreements and personal conflicts eventually fractured those relationships. Years later, the tension remains. While “Cheap Teeth” succeeded in generating attention, much of the conversation centered on the backlash rather than the music itself. For now, Cam’ron appears to have landed the most memorable punch in the latest round of the ongoing Roc-A-Fella saga.

Rapper Toosii has left the LSU Tigers football and returned his full attention to music, closing an unexpected chapter that briefly united hip-hop and college football. WBRZ broke the news on Wednesday. The 26-year-old artist stunned fans in March when he joined LSU as a wide receiver. The move sparked debate across social media and sports circles, with many questioning whether one of rap’s rising stars could successfully balance a music career with Division I football. Rapper Toosii has chosen to leave the LSU football program and resume his musical career, Lane Kiffin said on In the Bayou with Tyrann Mathieu, partially citing the fact that he inked a deal with a gambling company.https://t.co/Yj4JKccsR0 — WBRZ News (@WBRZ) June 17, 2026 Speaking on the podcast In the Bayou with former NFL standout Tyrann Mathieu, LSU head coach Lane Kiffin said business opportunities and NCAA-related restrictions ultimately influenced Toosii’s decision. “There were limitations on what he can make and do,” Kiffin said, describing the challenges of maintaining football eligibility while managing an established entertainment career. Kiffin also pointed to a commercial partnership involving a gambling company as another obstacle. While he did not identify the company, he suggested the agreement created complications under existing college athletics rules. “He signed with one of the gambling company things where you do commercials for them,” Kiffin said. Rapper Toosii Leaves LSU Tigers Football To Return To Music Career The development arrives at a time when college sports continue to wrestle with evolving questions surrounding endorsements, athlete compensation and gambling-related partnerships. For an artist with a thriving career, those restrictions presented difficult choices. Before stepping onto the football field, Toosii had already secured his place in hip-hop. The North Carolina native broke through with the hit song Favorite Song, a record that generated hundreds of millions of streams and helped elevate him into rap’s mainstream conversation. Despite the short-lived experiment, Kiffin rejected any suggestion that Toosii joined the program for publicity. “I really enjoyed being around him. It wasn’t a stunt at all,” Kiffin said. “He really wanted to see if he could do it.” Those remarks underscore the seriousness behind Toosii’s pursuit. Rather than a promotional campaign, Kiffin portrayed it as a genuine attempt by a successful rapper to test himself in another arena. For now, that journey has ended. Toosii returns to music with a renewed focus, while his brief stint at LSU stands as a rare intersection of hip-hop ambition and college football opportunity.

HOT 97 Summer Jam is known for bringing some of the biggest names in music to one stage, and this year, fans will get to experience one of R&B’s most captivating voices as Mariah The Scientist joins the lineup. Born Mariah Amani Buckles in Atlanta, Georgia, Mariah The Scientist has quickly become one of the most exciting artists in contemporary R&B. Before music became her full-time career, she attended St. John’s University in New York, where she studied biology and originally planned to pursue a career in medicine. However, after discovering her passion for songwriting and recording, she left school to focus on music and never looked back. Since emerging with her debut EP To Die For in 2018, Mariah has built a loyal fan base through her emotionally honest songwriting, distinctive vocals, and unique storytelling. Her major-label debut album MASTER helped establish her as one of R&B’s most promising new voices, while subsequent projects including RY RY WORLD and To Be Eaten Alive further showcased her growth as an artist. Mariah reached new heights in 2025 with the release of her fourth studio album, Hearts Sold Separately. The project earned her first No. 1 album on Billboard’s Top R&B Albums chart and featured breakout records including “Burning Blue” and “Is It a Crime” with Kali Uchis. Both songs became her first Billboard Hot 100 entries as a lead artist, marking a major milestone in her career. Her momentum has continued throughout 2026. Mariah recently performed at Governors Ball in New York and was honored with the Rising Star Award at Billboard’s Women in Music event, further cementing her status as one of R&B’s fastest-rising stars. Now, she’s bringing that energy to HOT 97 Summer Jam. Known for fan favorites like “Spread Thin,” “2 You,” “Burning Blue,” and “Is It a Crime,” Mariah The Scientist’s performance is set to be one of the standout moments of the festival. With her unique blend of vulnerability, storytelling, and modern R&B production, she continues to push the genre forward while connecting deeply with audiences around the world. Don’t miss your chance to see Mariah The Scientist live at HOT 97 Summer Jam as she joins an unforgettable lineup for one of hip-hop and R&B’s biggest events of the year. Get your tickets here. View this post on Instagram

A federal judge has allowed publisher Eight Mile Style to move forward with a copyright infringement lawsuit seeking more than $109 million against Meta Platforms Inc., rejecting the technology company’s attempt to dismiss claims involving hundreds of songs associated with rapper Eminem’s catalog. In a June 16 order, U.S. District Judge Brandy R. McMillion ruled that Eight Mile plausibly alleged direct copyright infringement by Meta through the inclusion of 243 copyrighted compositions in the music libraries of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. Eminem Music Publisher Can Pursue $109 Million Meta Licensing Lawsuit, Judge Ruleshttps://t.co/xI8BWpsARM — billboard (@billboard) June 17, 2026 The lawsuit, filed by Eight Mile Style, alleges Meta reproduced and stored copyrighted works without obtaining valid licenses. The publisher owns rights to numerous compositions recorded by Eminem, including the Academy Award-winning song “Lose Yourself.” Meta argued the complaint relied on broad allegations and failed to identify actionable infringement. The company also challenged Eight Mile’s request for statutory damages, which could exceed $109 million if calculated at the maximum amount permitted under federal copyright law. Judge McMillion found the allegations sufficient to survive dismissal. “Plaintiff alleges that Meta placed all 243 of the aforementioned works in the respective music libraries of all three of its platforms,” McMillion wrote. “Accepted as true, this fact can plausibly be construed as constituting reproduction of the copyrighted work.” Rapper Eminem’s Eight Mile Style Allowed To Sue Meta For $109 Million, Per Judge The court further noted that unauthorized storage of copyrighted compositions may constitute infringement because copyright owners hold the exclusive right to reproduce their works. While Eight Mile secured a significant victory on its direct infringement claims, the court dismissed its secondary infringement allegations. Those claims accused Meta of inducing users to incorporate unauthorized music into social media content. McMillion concluded that Eight Mile failed to identify specific infringing user posts or demonstrate that Meta actively encouraged copyright violations. “While Meta may encourage its users to use the platforms’ tools, the court is unwilling to equate an encouragement to use the tools with an encouragement to infringe,” the judge wrote. The dismissal leaves open the possibility that Eight Mile could seek to amend its complaint. The case now advances to discovery, where the parties will exchange documents, testimony and other evidence. Neither Eight Mile nor Meta publicly commented on the ruling. Although Eminem’s music catalog is central to the dispute, the Grammy-winning artist is not a named party. The litigation could nonetheless shape future copyright licensing disputes involving major social media platforms and music publishers.

David Oyelowo went on Godfrey’s podcast and broke down exactly how he pulls off an American accent — and his explanation included the word “slavery.” The Mornings with Mero crew reacts to the viral clip, his public apology, and the bigger debate around British actors taking Black American roles. Plus, the convo turns into a whole discussion on accents, code-switching, Spanglish, and growing up speaking a different language at home. Topics covered: Oyelowo’s “put a little slavery in it” comment — comedian bit or L?The public apology breakdownBritish actors bypassing Black American talentSpanglish, Yoruglish, and bilingual upbringingsCode-switching and thinking in another language

Russell Simmons must continue defending a sexual assault lawsuit in New York after a state court rejected his effort to dismiss claims brought by a former Def Jam Recordings executive. The ruling states that the alleged conduct falls within the court’s jurisdiction despite the music mogul’s residence in Indonesia. In a June 16 decision, New York Supreme Court Justice Adam Silvera held that claims filed by an anonymous plaintiff identified as Jane Doe may proceed under New York law. The lawsuit alleges Simmons raped the former Def Jam employee during the 1990s at his Manhattan apartment while she worked in the label’s music video department. Russell Simmons Must Face Def Jam Exec’s Rape Lawsuit Despite Living in Indonesia, Judge Ruleshttps://t.co/EGCYGRFN0d — billboard (@billboard) June 18, 2026 The ruling follows an earlier setback for Doe in federal court, where a judge found Simmons, who has lived in Indonesia since 2018, was beyond that court’s jurisdiction. Doe subsequently refiled her claims in state court. Silvera concluded that New York courts may exercise jurisdiction because the alleged assault occurred within the state. “The complaint alleges the defendant committed the tort of rape in New York state,” Silvera wrote. “[In New York], a court may exercise personal jurisdiction over any non-domiciliary who commits a tortious act within the state.” Russell Simmons Can Still Be Sued By Def Jam Recordings Exec While Living In Indonesia, Judge Rules The court also declined to dismiss the case based on a 1997 severance agreement that Simmons’ attorneys argue released any potential claims against him. Doe’s legal team contends the document is invalid and alleges her signature was forged. Silvera found that a “genuine dispute as to its authenticity” exists. It is determined that evidence must be developed before the court can decide whether the agreement is enforceable. The litigation now moves into discovery, where both parties will exchange documents, conduct depositions and gather evidence. The court has scheduled an August conference to establish a case-management schedule. Neither Simmons’ representatives nor attorneys for Doe publicly commented on the ruling. The lawsuit was filed under New York’s Adult Survivors Act, which temporarily revived otherwise time-barred sexual assault claims. Simmons has repeatedly denied allegations of sexual misconduct and has maintained his innocence. In court filings, Simmons’ attorneys said he intends to challenge. They described as “untrue and unproven allegations” and seek to clear his name as the case proceeds.

Drill rapper Fivio Foreign wants to be apart of the upcoming parade to celebrate the New York Knicks’ championship. Fresh off the New York Knicks’ 2026 NBA championship victory, the Brooklyn native took to social media with a direct message aimed at parade organizers. The rapper made it clear he wants a role in the city’s championship celebration. “Idk who need to hear this but I better b performing in that parade in NY on Thursday ??” Fivio wrote. Idk who need to hear this but I better b performing in that parade in NY on Thursday — Fivio Foreign (@FivioForeign) June 16, 2026 The post quickly gained traction online as Knicks fans celebrated the franchise’s long-awaited title. While no official entertainment lineup has been announced, Fivio’s request immediately sparked discussion across social media. The timing makes sense. Few artists are more closely tied to New York’s current rap scene than Fivio Foreign. The drill star has built his career on records that reflect the energy, culture, and pride of the five boroughs. As the city prepares to honor its championship team, many supporters believe a hometown artist would be a fitting addition to the festivities. Drill Rapper Fivio Foreign Wants To Perform At New York Knicks’ Parade The Knicks parade is scheduled for June 18, with thousands expected to flood Lower Manhattan. Players, coaches, celebrities, and lifelong fans are set to celebrate a championship run that has electrified New York. For Fivio, the opportunity would represent more than another performance. It would place him at the center of one of the biggest sports moments the city has witnessed in decades. His public appeal arrives as social media remains flooded with Knicks-related content. Fans have spent days sharing championship reactions, parade plans, and tributes to the team. Fivio’s post has now become part of that conversation. Whether organizers answer the call remains unknown. Still, the rapper has already made his intentions clear. If New York is throwing a championship party, Fivio Foreign wants a microphone. For now, Knicks fans are waiting to see whether the Brooklyn drill heavyweight gets his wish and earns a spot at the city’s biggest celebration of the summer.

Bow Wow used his Instagram Story to push a potential Verzuz music showdown between R&B groups B2K and Pretty Ricky, framing it as both a challenge and a call to action. His post followed leaked screenshots of a B2K group chat that sparked debate about who would win in a live Verzuz battle. Inside the chat, the conversation starts light but quickly turns competitive. Raz-B sets the tone with, “Pretty Ricky vs. B2K. Who winning this Verzuz?” Lil’ Fizz responds with confidence, writing, “Y’all know damn well…” while Omarion takes a more balanced stance, acknowledging that Pretty Ricky “do have some fire records.” Bow Wow wants Pretty Ricky & B2K to have a Verzuz battle during BET awards weekend. Who wins this ? pic.twitter.com/CMAoWN5UAr — 2Cool2Blog (@2Cool2Blog) June 17, 2026 That respect points to the catalog on the other side, including Pretty Ricky staples like “Grind With Me” and “On the Hotline.” Still, Fizz keeps the energy playful, adding, “But can they still fit them clothes?” The jab leans into early-2000s R&B nostalgia while still backing B2K’s confidence. The tone shifts when J-Boog steps in with, “Legends don’t text. They show up. Verzuz.” Omarion follows with, “Say less,” and the group locks in with, “Let’s go then” and “Let’s make it happen fellas.” What started as speculation turns into intent. Rapper Bow Wow Poses B2K vs. Pretty Ricky Verzuz During BET Weekend That’s where Bow Wow enters the conversation. A frequent collaborator and tourmate of B2K, Bow Wow uses his platform to escalate things. “The group text msg is cute but let’s get to the smoke!” he wrote, pushing for a real event instead of online talk. He then proposed BET Weekend as the ideal stage for the matchup. This year’s BET Awards will be held next week in Los Angeles, California. By comparing himself to UFC president Dana White, Bow Wow positions himself as the promoter trying to make the fight happen. “What group really ran sh*t?” he asked, turning the idea into a cultural referendum on which act defined 2000s R&B more. The moment even drew a reaction from Pretty Ricky, who responded, “LOL @VerzuzTV?”—signaling awareness of the challenge and fueling speculation that the idea may have real legs. What began as a group chat has now evolved into a public bidding war for one of R&B’s most anticipated hypothetical Verzuz battles.