A$AP Rocky has joined forces with Nas for a new Ray-Ban campaign that looks back to Belly, the 1998 film directed by Hype Williams that became a touchstone of late-1990s hip-hop style. The campaign, released February 19, coincides with the launch of Rocky’s Metal Collection for the eyewear brand. Serving as creative director, Rocky introduces a selection of optical frames and sunglasses priced between $202 and $249. The collaboration brings together fashion, music, and film in a way that feels less like a commercial exercise and more like a cultural callback. The accompanying short film borrows its mood and visual cues from Belly, a movie remembered as much for its imagery as for its storyline. Nas, who appeared in the original film, narrates the campaign, grounding it in personal memory. “Man, I get a phone call from Flacko this evening. He wants to meet in Harlem. Funny thing is, it’s the same restaurant where I last met with his pops before he passed. His pops was my dawg,” he says. In fact, in this story, Rocky becomes even more central to the film’s journey. Framing Legacy in the Present That line adds emotional weight to what might otherwise be a straightforward brand partnership. By invoking a shared history and a specific place in Harlem, the campaign folds biography into homage. It also connects Nas to Rocky’s influence, creating a bond that feels authentic instead of fabricated, and positions Rocky as a stylistic heir to earlier generations of New York rap. For Ray-Ban, the project positions the brand within a lineage of artists who have shaped popular culture beyond their music. Furthermore, this partnership allows Rocky to expand his growing creative legacy across fashion and music, strengthening Rocky’s influence in both arenas.

Yo Gotti and the Collective Music Group, better known as CMG The Label, are mourning the loss of one of the label’s brightest protégés, Lil Poppa. Together, Gotti and CMG shared an official statement on Thursday afternoon (February 19) via social media in tribute to their artist. Born Janarious Wheeler, Lil Poppa was 25 when he died on Wednesday, February 18. The Jacksonville, Florida, native was found deceased, and medical examiners later confirmed the cause as a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The tragedy came just days after Lil Poppa released his latest single, “Outta Town Bae,” adding another layer of heartbreak to a career that many believed was still ascending. View this post on Instagram In an Instagram tribute, CMG described Poppa as “more than a gifted artist,” calling him “an ambitious young man whose depth stretched far beyond his years.” The label emphasized his limitless promise, writing that he “carried endless potential” and was deeply loved within the CMG family. Rappers Boosie Badazz, Yungeen Ace, Lil Duval were among the many across hip-hop to pay tribute to the late rapper after his death. Yo Gotti & CMG The Label (Collective Music Group) Release Official Statement On The Passing Of Rapper Lil Poppa The statement also reflected on the emotional weight of his music. “He was one of those rare creatives who poured his pain, growth, and truth into every lyric,” the label shared. Known for raw storytelling and vulnerable verses, Lil Poppa built a catalog rooted in lived experience. “His music reflected real life—its hardships, its lessons, and its triumphs,” CMG added, displaying authenticity as the foundation of his artistry. Beyond the studio, the label highlighted his bond with fans. “Through his passion and authenticity, he connected with listeners from all walks of life,” the statement read. “Fans saw themselves in his words. They found comfort in his vulnerability and strength in his resilience.” CMG closed with a solemn vow: “Poppa, we promise to honor your legacy with the respect and dignity it deserves. Your impact will never fade. We are all better because of you. Long Live Lil Poppa.”

In his first round of interviews since being released from federal prison, Fetty Wap has spoken less about chart positions and more about trade certifications. Appearing on The Tamron Hall Show, the rapper said he earned his GED while incarcerated and completed coursework in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. The credentials, he suggested, represent more than résumé additions; they signal a recalibration of priorities. For Fetty, an artist once defined by rapid success, the tone was notably measured. “I got my GED. I took a few HVAC courses. Oh, yeah, I do a few things,” he said with a shrug. He explained that conversations with other inmates influenced his thinking. “You meet a lot of people that … they had legitimate businesses and making good amount of money,” he said. “So I’m like, well, he making, like, rapper money. I’ma try that out.” It is interesting to see Fetty consider new possibilities after his prison experience. View this post on Instagram A Different Future, On His Own Terms Hall asked whether he envisioned returning to his music career exactly as it stood before his conviction. His answer was succinct: “No.” The response did not suggest an abandonment of music, but rather an acknowledgment that the circumstances—and perhaps the man—have changed. This change is especially relevant for Fetty as he looks ahead. Fetty Wap, whose legal name is Willie Junior Maxwell II, was released last month after serving time on federal drug charges tied to a cocaine distribution conspiracy. He had been sentenced in 2023. In the interview, he spoke of personal growth and a desire to be present for his family while also expressing interest in programs that support education for young people. The future he described sounded less like a comeback tour and more like a careful rebuilding, which reflects Fetty’s renewed outlook.

Kevin Durant is facing allegations that he’s been operating a burner account on X( formerly Twitter.” The tweets from the alleged account were critical of Durant’s current and former teammates as well as his past coaches. On Sunday, as Durant was playing in the NBA All-Star Game, multiple screenshots of tweets went viral. In the tweets, the Houston Rockets star was alleged to be behind was sent from accounts under several aliases. Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker and former Suns coach Frank Vogel, Golden State’s Steph Curry, and coach Steve Kerr were targeted in the tweets. The messages also included complaints about the Rockets’ Alperen Şengün and Jabari Smith Jr. Screen recorded TWEETS from @gethigher77 AkA KEVIN DURANT’S Burner ACCOUNT pic.twitter.com/6hBxW5WCCd — FeerBock (@FeeredBucks) February 17, 2026 Durant addressed the controversy for the first time on Wednesday, February 18, three days after the tweets surfaced during the All-Star Game. Screen recorded TWEETS from @gethigher77 AkA KEVIN DURANT’S Burner ACCOUNT pic.twitter.com/6hBxW5WCCd — FeerBock (@FeeredBucks) February 17, 2026 “I know you gotta ask these questions, but I’m not here to get into Twitter nonsense,” Durant told reporters after the Rockets’ practice. I’m just here to focus on the season and keep but pushing. Kevin Durant on his burner account allegations: “I’m not here to get into Twitter nonsense.” pic.twitter.com/Bd8tu5kjGw — NBACentel (@TheNBACentel) February 18, 2026 “But I get you all have to (ask). My teammates know what it is; we’ve been locked in the whole season. We had a great practice today, looking forward to the road trip,” Durant continued. GILBERT ARENAS CLAIMS THE RELEASE OF THE TWEETS WAS AN INSIDE JOB Gilbert Arenas, former NBA guard and podcaster, chimed in, saying that the leak had to come from someone from the Rockets organization. Arenas gave his take on Gil’s Arena. “Now I’m on a burner account talking in 1st person? So why the f*ck am I in a private group chat on a burner?… The n**** who leaked it is the person behind it.” Gilbert Arenas on the alleged Kevin Durant burner account (via @GilsArenaShow)pic.twitter.com/5e7DR9PIcv — ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 19, 2026 “Now I’m on a burner account talking in 1st person? So why the f*ck am I in a private group chat on a burner?… The n**** who leaked it is the person behind it,” Arenas said. “If you look at these tweets and you look at how Kevin Durant texts, it’s not the same person. No burner account talks in the first person.” During All-Star weekend media availability,  Durant was asked about his frequent use of the app by DeMarcus Cousins. “They don’t deserve to hear this God-level talk I’m giving to them,” Durant joked about social media users. “They take it for granted.” DURANT ADMITTED TO USING BURNING ACCOUNTS IN 2017 Using burning accounts is nothing new for Durant. In 2017, Durant confirmed that he used burner accounts to converse on social media. This season, Durant is averaging 25.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.4 assists. The Rockets are in fourth place in the Western Conference with a record of (33-20).

The death of the Jacksonville rapper Lil Poppa has been ruled a suicide, according to the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office in Georgia. Officials confirmed that the 25-year-old artist died from a gunshot wound to the head. The finding was shared publicly after initial reports of his passing earlier this week. His death came shortly after the release of his latest single, “Out Of Town Bae.” Born Janarious Mykel Wheeler, Lil Poppa grew up in Jacksonville, Florida, and began rapping as a child. Friends have said he started performing around age seven, often alongside peers from his church community. Over the years, he developed a style marked by introspective lyrics and restrained delivery, frequently touching on mental health, loyalty, and relationships. His songs resonated with listeners who recognized their own experiences in his storytelling. A Legacy That Echoes Beyond the Music At the time of his death, Lil Poppa was signed to Collective Music Group, founded by Yo Gotti. The label’s roster includes artists such as GloRilla, and those who worked with Wheeler described him as steady and focused. Producer Scotty OTH, speaking to NBC affiliate WTLV, reflected on his character as much as his music. “He’s just a great guy. Outside of the music and the artistry, man, he was a good human, and I’ll never forget him,” he said. The news has prompted an outpouring of grief from fans who followed his career from its early stages. For many, his recordings now carry added weight, capturing the voice of a young artist who spoke candidly about vulnerability and pressure. If you or someone you know may be struggling, support is available by calling or texting 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or visiting 988lifeline.org.

According to a resurfaced email, Jeffrey Epstein was quite the fan of Ye West. However, one song in particular stood out to him: Ye’s 2010 track, “Power.” It’s an ironic choice from the disgraced financier, considering the track critiques the dangers of excessive power. The emails, which appear to have been sent around circa 2011, show Epstein corresponding with a woman named Melanie. The two were discussing ways for him to acquire control of a website named “Mother’s Army.” The brand, which was created by Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, was founded after Epstein’s 2008 conviction. The pair began collaborating shortly before he began a 13-month-long prison sentence for solicitation of prostitution with a minor under the age of 18. While Ferguson worked as the brand’s face, he owned controlling shares of the business. After facing scrutiny, Ferguson fought to regain her brand. However, Epstein would only agree if she would sign a letter of support for him. He then referenced Ye’s “Power” track in a particularly disturbing way, writing, “It’s interesting we were talking about ‘power’ – have you heard the kanye west rap song ‘power’ – some funny lyrics that might resonate.” DOJ Releases First Batch Of Epstein Files Back in December, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) released the first batch of documents related to Epstein. Many of the photos included in the recent drop feature major political figures such as Bill Clinton and Donald Trump, as well as prominent entertainers like Mick Jagger and Michael Jackson. One of the more surprising celebrities to make the drop was Rush Hour actor Chris Tucker. One photo spots the actor arm-in-arm with Epstein’s partner and co-conspirator, Ghislaine Maxwell. In another, Tucker is seen at a dinner table sitting next to what appears to be former President Bill Clinton. Fans of the actor and comedian have begun to speculate if he’s ever participated in Epstein’s alleged trafficking ring. On the other hand, Rock has never admitted to anything nor been accused of any wrongdoing.

More than two decades after their rivalry first reshaped the landscape of early-2000s hip-hop, Ja Rule says he has made peace with the idea that he and 50 Cent may never reconcile. In a recent interview with TMZ, the rapper spoke candidly about the stalemate between himself, 50 Cent, and Tony Yayo, framing it less as an active battle and more as a long-standing divide. “Sometimes in life, people have enemies, and that’s okay. That’s okay to have enemies. Everybody can’t be friends. A friend of everybody is an enemy to himself,” he said. “But what I’m saying is, we don’t also have to be at war.” He described his current stance as one of distance rather than hostility. “There’s room for us to be not friends and also not be at war. That’s where I’m at with it right now. I don’t deal with that side. I don’t fck with them; they don’t fck with me. That’s fine. But, I also don’t have to be at war.” It was less a call for reunion than an acknowledgment that some conflicts simply settle into permanence. Around the same time, 50 Cent posted a characteristically sharp message on Instagram about turning rivals into fuel. “Good morning let your enemies become motivation,” he wrote. “Make them watch your success till they snap. Then get the Fvck out the way before they crash out. LOL.” While he did not mention Ja Rule by name, the remark circulated widely given the timing. View this post on Instagram Ja Rule Addresses Viral Clash as an Old Feud Finds New Ground The renewed attention follows a recent midair dispute involving Ja Rule, Tony Yayo and Uncle Murda that quickly spread online. After footage of the confrontation went viral, Ja Rule addressed the episode with visible regret. “I’m not proud of my behavior it’s goofy to me,” he said. “I’m a grown man about to be a grandfather and I wish that video of me wasn’t out there either. I don’t like people taking me out of my character so for that I apologize to my wife, family, fans, business and investment partners. I want people to know at the end of the day I’m still a man and I’m going to stand my ground. I don’t start trouble.” Notably, this episode is yet another chapter in Ja Rule’s public interactions with Cent, reinforcing the unique role of 50 in media coverage. Time has altered the tone of the feud, if not its existence. What once played out in diss tracks and radio interviews now surfaces in interviews and social media posts, tempered by age and experience. The animosity remains, but it appears to have shifted into something quieter—a boundary both sides seem prepared to live with, much like the gradual acceptance of what happened over the past 50 years in hip-hop rivalries.

News of a Nipsey Hussle project had hip-hop in a frenzy this week as J. Cole continued to shine bright on the charts, securing his 7th number-one album in The Fall Off. While the genre released new albums by Brent Faiyaz, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, and Boldy James over the weekend, there was plenty of new music from emerging acts that you might have missed while paying more attention to the heavy-hitters. 2026 tours continue to pop up, with this week’s announcement of upcoming runs by Baby Keem, J. Cole, and Wiz Khalifa. The battle of the tours is underway as Cardi B kicked off her highly anticipated Little Miss Drama? Tour this week. Nipsey Hussle and Bino Rideaux’s collaboration album announcement was followed by upcoming projects from Mike Will Made It, Larry June, Curren$y, and The Alchemist. Hip-Hop had a lot of surprises this week, alongside the tours and albums. For example, you might have missed that Thundercat released a new song featuring the late Mac Miller, that Mya made her return with plans to release her first new album in 7 years, or that Yung Miami is getting ready for her takeover. To keep you in the know, here’s the new music you might have missed this week. Spank Nitti James, E-40, & Hit-Boy Throw A “Bridal Shower” It’s the Bay to L.A. on the new collaboration that is overloaded with unique slang, brought to you in part by the King of Slang himself. You can get hyphy to the slap, you can do your walk to the track, and you can do your dance, whichever you prefer. Nipsey Hussle & Bino Rideaux Talk “Reckless” The first release from the long-awaited sequel EP between the L.A. duo will remind you how much you miss Nip The Great. The lyrics may be old, but you couldn’t tell based on their relevance. The energy is electric, while the track promises greatness is on the way. Mya Needs Your Love “ASAP” Back like she never left, the legendary R&B singer gets back to her lovergirl ways on the latest release. She delivers more passion, sensual vocals of desire for the leading man. The new track was well worth the wait. Central Cee & J Hus Bring The “Slaughter” After dropping an Iceman freestyle blended with vintage Jay-Z lines, the U.K. rapper links with his brother for some mayhem. The two pass menacing lyrics back and forth as they go on a ride-along, looking for opps. U.K. hip-hop is on a run right now. XavierSoBased Rolls Up Like “Tony Hawk” After landing the Fader, the rap star’s latest single channels the swagger and rebellious energy associated with the iconic skateboarder. The track blends hazy production with playful bravado, using Hawk’s name as a metaphor for effortless style, risk-taking, and cultural impact. Lyrically, the rapper celebrates youth, confidence, and internet-age cool with offbeat charisma and underground rap flair. Yung Miami Makes Her Own Headlines In A “News Flash” The latest in her return run, the track is a sharp-tongued, bass-heavy anthem that doubles as a headline-grabbing statement. “This one was very personal to me. I’m standing in my truth and not apologizing for it,” says the former City Girl. “I put my confidence, survival, and pain in that song. I’m standing my ground and showing that I’m here now.” Tink & G Herbo Are Bonnie & Clyde For The “Gang” Continuing to leave the past behind, the popular rap star links up with a Chicago legend to validate her loyalty in the new track. Drawing on a classic Bonnie and Clyde theme, she proves her star power is undeniable. The forthcoming album will be a must-hear in 2026. mgk is “starman” As he prepares for his nationwide tour with Wiz Khalifa this summer. The Cleveland rock star feeds the streets with a song that owns relatable struggles with fear and escapism by recasting the iconic chorus of Third Eye Blind’s 1997 alternative hit “Semi-Charmed Life” in a modern context. The song swirls together new-wave glow, pop-punk speed, and explosive rock energy into an undeniable sing-along.  Young M.A. Prepares New “Lasagna” As she makes her bounce back, the new song is a gritty, minimalist street anthem built on blunt wordplay and hard-edged confidence. Over sparse production, the “Oow” hitmaker delivers sharp punchlines and unapologetic bravado, reinforcing her Brooklyn roots and reputation for raw, no-frills lyricism. DJ Paul Is A Survivor Who Proves “I Beat The Odds” The Three-Six-Mafia frontrunner has survived the 90s and the 2000s hip-hop landscape. Today, he takes a look back at the journey as he prepares for what’s next. Mike Will Made It Connects Chief Keef and NBA Youngboy To Make More “Rooms” For Greatness The Southern producer’s return to the scene begins with two of the biggest names in street music ever. Their first track together. What more can I say, except hit the play button already. Himothy Chung Speaks To His Brother ZeeTheWizard And Tells Him To “Wait For Me” The New Dallas standout pays tribute to his best friend and late rapper ZeeTheWizard on the track. Fond memories and pledged promises fill the buzzing artist’s wordplay over the heartfelt production. Long live Zee 4E. Lil Poppa Calls On His “Outta Town Bae” The CMG artist has hoes in different area codes on his latest single. Over the booty-bouncing production, he imports a new flame for a link-up. The visual marks the rap star’s last release before his sudden passing. RIP. Babytron & Jorjiana Put On “Carhartt” & Rap Put the fashion first, the new collaboration for the Detroit player is a vibe. After proving he can hold his own with one of the best ever, he kicks back and admires his fresh outfit, made by a unique swag. The song builds on the anticipation for the forthcoming album. Hit-Boy & Lefty Gunplay Throw A “Block Party” After Grammys The West Coast keeps the party going as they put the new gold away in the latest collaboration. The track takes us

Chris Brown has seemingly issued a response to the recent conflict between his baby mothers, one of whom accused him of threats. Earlier this week, Brown’s ex, Diamond Brown, set social media after accusing the singer of fathering a child with his rumored boo, Jada Wallace. In another shocking claim, Diamond accused the singer of interfering in her relationship and says he threatened her boyfriend. On Thursday (Feb.18), the singer hopped on Instagram with a subtle post in response to the allegations. The post contained a black background and text that read, “I ain’t playing no internet games.” Just a day prior, Jada hopped in the chat, accusing Diamond of keeping her daughter, Lovely, which she shares with Brown, away from him.”B—h you a lame running to the internet. Tryna air buisness out like you not the one keeping him from seeing his daughter…” she wrote in a lengthy Instagram post. She also accused Diamond of dating a former friend of Brown’s all whilst living off his money. View this post on Instagram Diamond immediately clapped back at the post, denying claims that she kept her daughter from Brown. “B—h, bye. You don’t know sh—t. I’ve known this man for years. You been around how long? Lol. He say jump and you say how high…” she wrote in an Instagram post. That said, there was only one instance, and it was for Lovely to attend a slumber party, Diamond says. However, according to her, Chris Brown “spazzed out” on the parents of her daughter’s best friend. “He be feeding you whatever you wanna hear shawty,” she said. I have a job b—h. I do my part. What do you do for a living? Besides bow down. On top of that I am the main parent. I’m with my child day in and day out, something you know nothing about. ” Diamond even went as far as to threaten to fight Jada. “…Get off social media b—h. Wait till that baby come out. I’ll whoop your a— fr.”

Big Sean is opening up about one of the most difficult chapters of his life. During a recent appearance on ABC News’ All Access, the Detroit rapper revealed that the 2019 death of his close friend Nipsey Hussle sent him into what he described as a “very deep” depression.  Sean explained that the loss hit him hard emotionally and forced him to confront his mental health in a way he hadn’t before. “It felt like I hit a wall… and I either had to climb over it, or it was gonna fall on me and crush me,” he shared, reflecting on the overwhelming period that followed Nipsey’s passing.  According to the rapper, the moment became a turning point. He admitted he had become so consumed by work that he lost touch with himself, saying he didn’t even know what he enjoyed anymore. That realization, he said, contributed to a depression deeper than anything he experienced in his teenage years.  Rather than ignore the warning signs, Sean made the decision to step back from music and prioritize his well-being. He turned to therapy, meditation, healthier habits, and self-reflection to help rebuild mentally and emotionally. The hiatus ultimately stretched the gap between his 2020 album Detroit 2 and his next full-length release.  Despite the pain, Big Sean says the experience taught him valuable life lessons about balance and self-care. He has also continued to honor Nipsey Hussle’s legacy, most notably through their Grammy-nominated collaboration “Deep Reverence,” which arrived in 2020.  Sean emphasized that he wasn’t trying to become the face of a movement — he was simply being honest about his reality. Still, his openness has resonated widely, especially as conversations around mental health in the Black community continue to evolve.  As Big Sean moves forward, his story serves as a reminder of Nipsey Hussle’s lasting impact and the importance of checking in on mental health — even at the highest levels of success.