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.

Boxing icon Floyd Mayweather Jr. has publicly addressed the wave of media attention surrounding felony charges filed against him in Clark County, Nevada, framing the coverage as a byproduct of his enduring celebrity rather than a threat to his reputation. In an Instagram post shared Wednesday, the undefeated former world champion posted a meme stating, “Good press, bad press, facts or fiction…. Pick your poison. Every headline keeps my name in circulation and everything in motion.” View this post on Instagram The post arrived days after reports surfaced that Mayweather faces felony allegations related to a luxury watch transaction in Las Vegas. Prosecutors allege the boxing star passed a $200,000 check despite insufficient funds in the account. Mayweather has not publicly addressed the substance of those allegations. Instead, his social media statement focused on the broader impact of public scrutiny and media coverage. “Lies and negative news always travel faster than the truth,” Mayweather wrote. “That’s just the way things work.” The former champion suggested that controversy often attracts greater public attention than factual developments. He further argued that criticism frequently accompanies high-profile success. Boxing Icon Floyd Mayweather Jr. Counters Headlines About Felony Charges In Clark County Over Allegedly Passing Bad Checks “Unhappy people love bad news,” Mayweather wrote. “I love stories they think are gonna tear the strongest creature on earth down a BLACK man.” The comments appear to cast the recent headlines as part of a familiar pattern faced by prominent public figures. Mayweather has spent decades operating under intense public scrutiny while building one of the most lucrative careers in sports history. His post also underscored a business philosophy he has long embraced. Rather than distancing himself from the publicity, Mayweather characterized continued media attention as commercially beneficial. “At the end of the day, my name staying in the media is still my name staying in the media,” he wrote. “Attention is attention.” Mayweather added that his priorities remain focused on “family, generational wealth and staying out of other people business that’s not my own.” He concluded with a direct message to media outlets and bloggers covering the case. “So please, keep posting. More Blogs, More Lies… Free Promotion and I gladly welcome Every Line!” The remarks do not address the merits of the Clark County charges. Instead, they signal Mayweather’s intention to project confidence as legal proceedings move forward. For now, the Hall of Fame boxer appears determined to treat the heightened scrutiny as another chapter in a career built on visibility, controversy and public fascination.

Comedic actor Faizon Love was taken into custody this week in connection with a long-running Florida paternity and child support dispute after a court found him in contempt and ordered him to serve jail time. TMZ broke the news on Wednesday. According to booking records, Love was arrested Tuesday in Hillsborough County and booked into a detention facility in Tampa, Florida, on two contempt-of-court counts. The arrest stems from litigation involving Tiffany Lee, who alleges the actor owes substantial child support obligations. View this post on Instagram Court filings indicate a judge previously held Love in contempt after determining he failed to comply with court orders related to the case. The court subsequently directed him to surrender for a 90-day jail sentence, warning that failure to do so could result in arrest. Love sought relief from the court earlier this year, arguing that he lacked the financial means to satisfy claims that he owed approximately $250,000 in support payments. In filings submitted to the court, Love asserted that his earnings had declined dramatically and that he was experiencing significant financial hardship. The actor reported that his highest gross annual income during the previous five years was approximately $13,000. He further stated that he earned no income during the past year. Love also cited a medical incident that allegedly prevented him from attending a scheduled hearing in April. Actor Faizon Love Arrested In Tampa, Florida Court Over Failure To Pay Child Support To Baby Mom, Tiffany Love Despite those representations, the court allowed the contempt proceedings to move forward. The judge ultimately concluded that Love had not complied with the court’s directives and ordered him into custody. The dispute marks the latest legal challenge for Love, whose acting credits include roles in Friday, The Replacements and Elf. Neither Love nor representatives for Tiffany Lee have publicly commented on the arrest. The case now returns to the court’s docket as the parties continue litigating issues surrounding child support compliance and enforcement. The news surrounds the development of the fourth and final Friday film, starring Ice Cube and Mike Epps. No word if Faizon Love will be reprising his role as Big Worm yet. Further hearings are expected as the matter continues in Hillsborough County.

Hip Hop star Drake and his OVO (October’s Very Own) are preparing to be in partnership with licensing giant Authentic Brands Group, according to Puck. While discussions remain ongoing, the potential transaction signals how far OVO has evolved beyond music into a global lifestyle enterprise. BREAKING: Drake is reportedly selling a 50% stake in OVO to Authentic Brands Group Authentic is the licensing giant behind brands like Reebok, Champion, Forever 21, Brooks, and Sports Illustrated, while also managing the rights to cultural icons like Elvis Presley, Marilyn… pic.twitter.com/R4jWP3VZaQ — JustFreshKicks (@JustFreshKicks) June 17, 2026 Founded as an extension of Drake’s creative vision, OVO has grown into one of the most recognizable artist-led fashion brands in the world. The Toronto-based imprint built its reputation through premium streetwear, limited releases, and strategic collaborations. Partnerships with the National Hockey League, National Football League, and Looney Tunes have expanded the company’s reach beyond music. Authentic Brands Group would bring extensive licensing expertise to any partnership. The company oversees major consumer brands, including Champion, Sports Illustrated, and Reebok. Its portfolio also includes the intellectual property rights of cultural icons such as Shaquille O’Neal, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and Muhammad Ali. Hip Hop Star Drake Plans To Sell 50% of OVO (October’s Very Own) Stake To Authentic Brands Group Industry analysts view Authentic as a leader in brand expansion, licensing, and retail distribution. A partnership could unlock new opportunities for OVO across apparel, footwear, entertainment, and international merchandising. Neither side has disclosed financial terms, and no valuation has been confirmed. However, OVO’s sustained growth, strong consumer loyalty, and global recognition suggest the company could command a significant price. For Drake, the talks represent more than a potential investment. They underscore OVO’s transformation from a music-affiliated clothing label into a major cultural business. If a deal materializes, it could become one of the most significant corporate transactions tied to an artist-owned brand and position OVO for its next phase of worldwide expansion.

BenDaDonnn uses his celebrity friends, calling on rapper Drake, to persuade Kai Cenat to let him into the upcoming Streamer University. Cenat is open to approving the Memphis streamer if Drake throws in an OVO chain. Here’s what happened. Streamer University auditions delivered another viral moment this week when fellow content creator BenDaDonnn called Drake for backup during an in-person interview inside State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The clip, shared widely across social media, captured a hilarious exchange between Cenat, BenDaDonnn and the OVO boss as the Memphis streamer attempted to secure a spot in the highly anticipated program. Drake immediately vouched for BenDaDonnn’s credentials. “You’re like one of the biggest streamers in the world, right now,” Drake told him over the phone. BenDaDonnn called Drake to speak with Kai Cenat so he could help Ben get into Streamer University pic.twitter.com/EK8XbEAWlz — FearBuck (@FearedBuck) June 17, 2026 Ben quickly turned the endorsement into part of his pitch to Cenat. “That’s what the f*ck I’m asking,” Ben replied. “He said I’m one of the biggest streamers in the world, right now.” The conversation took a comedic turn when Drake realized Ben was participating in an official audition process. “Oh, you’re on, you’re there,” Drake said after learning the interview was taking place in Atlanta. Kai confirmed the setting, prompting Drake to joke, “I thought he was at an Apple Bees or something.” The biggest laugh arrived when the discussion shifted to one of hip-hop’s most recognizable status symbols: the coveted OVO chain. Ben told Drake that Cenat wanted to wear his chain in exchange for admission into Streamer University. BenDaDonnn Calls Rapper Drake To Get An OVO Chain For Kai Cenat To Enroll Him In Streamer University Kai immediately corrected him. “No, I said I want my own chain.” That clarification sparked a playful negotiation involving Drake himself. “For the sake of your career, you better do what you gotta do,” Drake told Ben. “Do whatever.” Ben instantly accepted the advice. “Ok, alright, that’s all I need to say, brother.” Drake then escalated the joke. “You’ve done worse for less.” When Ben pushed back, Drake doubled down. “You remember that one time, you had to do that one thing?” Rather than let the mystery unfold, Ben abruptly ended the call. “What the f*ck does he be talking about?” he asked before turning back to Cenat. “We’ll get you a chain, bro.” Cenat remained focused on the original request. “I told you to tell him, I want a chain, Ben.” By the end of the exchange, Ben appeared ready to make it happen. “He said what matters, get it done,” Ben said. “I can get you a f*ckin’ chain. It’s a $100,000 dollar chain.” The viral moment highlighted the growing intersection of hip-hop, streaming culture and celebrity influence. With Drake serving as BenDaDonnn’s co-signer and Kai Cenat controlling access to one of content creation’s hottest opportunities, the audition felt less like an interview and more like must-see internet entertainment.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has a new home. The two-time MVP has officially joined the Nike family after being signed to Converse, Complex reports. Gilgeous-Alexander now joins a Nike roster including LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Ja Morant, and Devin Booker. SGA shared the news drop on Tuesday night on his Instagram story on SGA’s page. The animated clip featured his logo morphing into a cluster of Nike Swooshes. JUST IN: Is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander shifting from Converse to Nike SGA just shared this on his Instagram story pic.twitter.com/x8AE27PaNw — House of Heat° (@houseofheat) June 16, 2026 ​In an official statement, Nike expressed gratitude for SGA becoming a part of the team. ​“We are thrilled to welcome Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to the Nike Basketball signature family. Coming after back-to-back MVP seasons, we are excited to build on Shai’s incredible impact with Converse as one of the most creative leaders in the game.” ​Moving pieces around under the Nike umbrella doesn’t exactly look like a vote of confidence for Converse. The sub-brand has struggled to find its footing since its 2023 revenue peak. Since then, revenue has dropped 35 percent year-over-year in Q3 2026. Rumors are swirling that Nike might sell off the brand entirely, though CEO Elliott Hill insists that’s not on the table. “Converse will remain an important part of the Nike, Inc. family, and we are excited about its long-term prospects,” Hill said. “Overall, the work is not finished, but the direction is clear. Our teams are moving with focus and urgency, and our foundation is getting even stronger.” ​In 2003, Nike acquired Converse, in 2003 and it operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of the brand. SGA’S HISTORY-MAKING SEASON ​Last season, led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a league-best 64 wins. He averaged  31.1 points and 6.6 assists. He also made history as the first guard ever to average 30 points while shooting an incredible 55 percent from the field. ​By securing back-to-back MVPs, he became just the 14th player in league history—and only the fifth guard—to repeat as the league’s Most Valuable Player. ​