NEW SINGLES  —————————

By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 19, 2025
British singer Nia Smith’s new single “Limit” pairs cool conviction with soulful clarity as she confronts the boundaries of love. Sampling James Blake’s “Limit to Your Love,” the track blends bluesy piano and steady percussion while she questions her partner’s behavior and signals an impending ending. After a year of revisions, Smith says the song speaks for those ready to let go, adding to a breakout year of major performances and her debut EP.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 19, 2025
Yemi Alade returns with “Shawa Shawa (Ashawo),” a vibrant and evocative new single that highlights her unmistakable pan-African star power. Featuring fellow Nigerian vocalist Fave, the track is already generating major buzz online thanks to its uplifting energy and irresistible groove. With her Grammy-nominated pedigree and deep cultural roots, Alade delivers another must-add anthem for fans of feel-good, high-spirited music.

NEW ALBUM 

By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 19, 2025
Boluwatife “Champz” Balogun, the 14-year-old son of Afrobeats icon Wizkid, makes a bold entrance with his debut EP Champion’s Arrival. Released on November 11, the five-track project soared to No. 1 on Apple Music Nigeria within five hours, making him the youngest artist to top the chart. Blending Afrobeats rhythms with UK grime, the EP highlights Champz’s solo confidence and has already charted in over 30 countries with millions of streams.

PREMIERING NOW

By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 19, 2025
Funk/Jazz trio Soulive’s “Flowers at Your Feet,” featuring Grammy winner Van Hunt, is a soulful, psych-funk reflection recorded under Iceland’s endless summer light at Flóki Studios. As the trio’s second single from their upcoming album Flowers , the track showcases their telepathic chemistry and rich lineage of influences, elevated by Hunt’s kaleidoscopic vocals. Produced and engineered by Alan Evans, the song honors musical greats while marking Soulive’s powerful return.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 19, 2025
Pierre Anthony’s “Love You” arrives as a warm, modern pop-love anthem capturing two people falling deeply for one another. The New York–born soulful vocalist, known for channeling the timeless spirit of 50s, 60s, and 70s R&B, brings the song to life in a beautifully directed music video from his album In My Feelings. Co-directed with Reidge Johannes, the visual highlights tender glances, dreamy romance, and the emotional richness that defines Anthony’s sound.

NOW PLAYING  ———————————————————————

By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
RUBII returns with Feeluh, a captivating new EP that cements her place as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary R&B. Blending neo-soul, and alt-pop textures, the UK artist delivers intimate, harmonizing vocals that feel both nostalgic and modern.Feeluhexplores themes of sudden success, growth, and betrayal with grounded, conversational lyricism. Following over 250 million streams, breakout singles like “Twin Flames,” and a buzzworthy Glastonbury performance, RUBII steps boldly into her next chapter with the confident, self-assured lead track “Confidence.”
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Elijah Blake unveils the stirring video for “Shouldn’t Wanna Call,” a raw, late-night confession that finds the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter caught between closure and longing. Floating over lush production, his vocals trace the ache of letting go while still clinging to memories of a love that shaped him. As the third single from his upcoming album THE GEMINI, the track deepens Blake’s exploration of emotional duality, following the soulful singles “White Rum” and “Work It Out.”
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Buffalo emcee-producer Che Noir teams up with fellow Buffalo rapper 7xvethegenius for the “Not Me” official music video, delivering sharp, uncompromising bars over Chup’s gritty, mid-’90s–inspired production. The track showcases both artists’ layered verses, driven by heart, hustle, and unwavering vision. Serving as a powerful glimpse into their highly anticipated collaborative album, the record highlights why Che Noir and 7xvethegenius are considered two of the strongest voices in rap today.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Tanzanian artist Diamond Platnumz’s “Sasampa” is a vibrant Amapiano anthem that celebrates the power of African collaboration. Featuring rappers/singers Focalistic, Uncool MC, Silas Africa, and Xduppy, the track blends lush rhythms, soulful energy, and cultural fusion. Released ;ast month, it stands out as a true party starter and a shining example of how diverse African sounds continue to unite artists and audiences across the continent.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Kah-Lo returns from a brief sabbatical with “Somersaults,” a retro-tinged, energetic single that showcases her singular voice and emotional honesty. Known for hits like “Fake ID,” the Grammy-nominated Nigerian house artist steps into a more vulnerable era, exploring the disorienting pull of affection and the ways it can push us beyond our usual limits. With playful yet expressive vocals, she turns heartache into something bold, fun, and ultimately empowering.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 14, 2025
Justin Radford, a Clarksville, Tennessee singer, songwriter, and producer whose church upbringing and influences like Kirk Franklin and Pharrell. offers up his new holiday single, “The Greatest Gift,” while deliveromg a heartfelt reminder that Jesus is the true reason for the season.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 14, 2025
Jacquees drops his new single “Let You Go” featuring K Camp, a smooth preview of his upcoming album Mood 2. Blending silky R&B with Amapiano grooves, the track showcases his vocal finesse over deep percussion and hypnotic rhythms. The Atlanta duo continues their hitmaking streak, while Jacquees builds on the success ofBaby Making, which topped the iTunes R&B/Soul charts.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 14, 2025
Following the release of her 2nd album Still Over It(2021), singer/songwriter Summer Walker spent the next two years collaborating widely before releasing her EPClear 2: Soft Lifein 2023 and beginning work on her third studio album. In October 2024, she confirmed the final installment of herOver Ittrilogy, later titledFinally Over It, introducing themes of self-love and growth split into two parts: “For Better” and “For Worse.” Inspired by Anna Nicole Smith and early-2000s pop culture aesthetics, the album rollout included teasers, skits, an escape-room event, and a Pac-Man–style video game.Finally Over Itarrives November 14, with 18 tracks and multiple collaborators that include Chris Brown and Latto..
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 14, 2025
R&B songstress Tweet makes a graceful return with the video for her new single “Toot Toot,” setting a warm, vintage vibe that invites fans straight into her world. The visual complements the song’s smooth, reflective feel as she distances herself from a man who isn’t ready for her love. Serving as the first taste of her upcoming album Memoirs of a Southern Hummingbird, “Toot Toot” marks a confident, soulful comeback.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 14, 2025
Omarion marks his birthday with the powerful dance video for “For War,” a raw, emotional ballad that blends vulnerability with masterful choreography. Moving through lyrics about heartbreak, conflict, and longing for refuge, he turns pain into performance, embodying the song’s intensity with every step. The visual highlights his signature precision and star presence while offering a striking preview of his upcoming O2era. “For War” is Omarion at his most expressive and captivating.

NEWS & NOTES


By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 19, 2025
Singer D4vd (real name is David Anthony Burke), has been identified as a suspect in the death of a 15-year-old girl whose remains were discovered in a vehicle registered to him, according to an LAPD source with direct knowledge of the investigation. The body of Celeste Rivas Hernandez was found Sept. 8 inside the trunk of a Tesla at a Los Angeles impound lot. Police said the vehicle had been parked for several weeks before it was towed, and the teen may have been deceased for an extended period prior to the discovery. Authorities believe the girl likely died in the spring, and the LAPD source told NBC Los Angeles that Burke has not been cooperative with investigators. The source also suggested Burke may have received help in dismembering and disposing of the body. However, Burke has not been charged with any crime, and the cause and manner of death remain “deferred” as the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner continues its investigation. A spokesman for the singer previously said in September that he was “fully cooperating with authorities,” though his attorneys did not respond to requests for comment Tuesday evening. Celeste Rivas Hernandez had been reported missing from Lake Elsinore, California, and was last seen on April 5, 2024. Because the manner of death has not yet been determined, police said it remains unclear whether any criminal culpability exists beyond the concealment of the body. The LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division continues to investigate, stating it is examining every aspect of the case to uncover the truth and pursue justice for the teen and her family.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 19, 2025
Usher has filed a lawsuit against one of his longtime collaborators, producer Bryan-Michael Cox, along with several entertainment industry figures, over a loan tied to a restaurant project in Atlanta that never materialized. According to the lawsuit filed on Nov. 14, Cox (who helped craft some of Usher’s biggest hits, including “U Got It Bad” and “Burn”) approached the singer in 2024 about investing in a restaurant and lounge called Homage ATL. Entertainment lawyer Alcide Honoré and industry officials Keith Thomas and Charles Hughes are also named in the complaint. Court documents reveal that while Usher declined to invest as a partner, he agreed to loan the group $1.7 million, wiring the funds in January with the expectation that they would secure a property for the venue. Months later, when no real estate had been purchased, Usher requested the money be returned. He received $1 million in August but has yet to recover the remaining $700,000. Usher claims Honoré told him repayment was “not that easy” because the funds had been used for “other purposes,” though no explanation has been provided for how the money was spent. Usher is now seeking $4.9 million in damages, representing $700,000 for each claim listed in the filing. The legal dispute comes as the R&B icon continues to expand his ventures outside of music. In a recent conversation with TMZ, Usher hinted at plans for a clothing line and shared that he’d love to see Metallica take the stage at a future Super Bowl halftime show.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Rhona Bennett has officially announced her departure from En Vogue, just five days after the group performed at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony without her. Bennett, 49, said she learned of the Nov. 8 performance at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater only after fans contacted her about her absence. The group appeared onstage with Salt-N-Pepa for “Whatta Man,” yet Bennett—who had a separate event scheduled that day—said she was never informed the performance was taking place. Bennett described the experience as a moment of clarity and said it contributed to her decision to step into what she called a “new season of creativity, freedom, and contribution.” Her departure follows a year of shifting dynamics within the group, including the February return of founding member Maxine Jones, who reunited with Terry Ellis, Cindy Herron, and Bennett for a four-member configuration earlier in 2025. Jones’ appearance at the Hall of Fame ceremony in Bennett’s absence drew additional attention, particularly given the group’s long history of lineup changes.  During her 22 years with En Vogue, Bennett contributed to the albums Soul Flower (2004) and Electric Café (2018), and performed with the group at major events including the 2020 Billboard Music Awards and the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. She also maintained a thriving career outside the group, founding Personal Power University and releasing her second solo album, Instant Classic, in 2024. With Bennett’s exit, En Vogue continues as a trio of founding members Ellis and Herron alongside the recently returned Jones—reviving speculation about the possibility of a full reunion with original member Dawn Robinson.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Paris Jackson’s effort to challenge the handling of her late father Michael Jackson’s estate encountered a setback after a Los Angeles court struck key portions of her petition. On Nov. 10, retired judge and specially appointed referee Mitchell L. Beckloff granted a motion from estate executors John Branca and John McClain, ruling that several claims in Paris’ filing targeted documents protected under California’s anti-SLAPP statute. The decision leaves her responsible for some of the estate’s attorney fees. The dispute centers on concerns Paris first raised in July 2025, including irregular “premium” payments to estate attorneys and slow, inconsistent financial filings she argued limited transparency for beneficiaries such as herself and brothers Bigi and Prince. While Beckloff struck claims involving protected filings, he left intact allegations tied to irregular approvals and procedural clarity. A spokesperson for Paris emphasized that the ruling was “limited to minor procedural issues” and said she intends to submit an updated petition. Executors Branca and McClain have defended their stewardship of Michael Jackson’s estimated $2 billion estate, noting they inherited massive debts but have since produced substantial profits for beneficiaries—claiming Paris alone has received around $65 million. With the court’s ruling, the executors maintain broad control over estate operations, even as the surviving elements of Paris’ petition allow for limited review. The dispute continues as major projects tied to the pop icon’s legacy move forward, including licensing deals and the highly anticipated biopic Michael.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Emmy-nominated filmmaker Chris Moukarbel has begun production on a new documentary chronicling the life and career of 13-time Grammy winner Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds. Backed by HarbourView Equity Partners and produced alongside Kenya Barris, the film promises an intimate look at one of the most influential songwriters and producers in modern music. Moukarbel, known for Gaga: Five Foot Two , is leading the project as it captures Babyface at a reflective point in his career. The documentary will feature exclusive, in-depth interviews with Babyface as he discusses the highs and lows of navigating the music industry over five decades. He will explore his songwriting and producing process, offering rare insight into the creation of some of his most iconic work. The film also goes behind the scenes of his collaborations with a star-studded roster, including Whitney Houston, Toni Braxton, Bobby Brown, Eric Clapton, Mary J. Blige, Michael Jackson, Boyz II Men (who thanks to TLC's Chilli, had to clear up some misinformation regarding their business relationship with Babyface), Mariah Carey, Madonna, Beyoncé, Lil Wayne, and SZA. In addition to Babyface’s own reflections, the documentary will include commentary from many of his key collaborators and feature behind-the-scenes and concert footage from his upcoming shows at The Palms in Las Vegas. With its blend of personal storytelling, archival material, and industry insights, the project aims to deliver the most comprehensive portrait yet of the artist whose songs have defined generations of R&B and pop music.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 14, 2025
A California appeals court has upheld Tory Lanez’s conviction for shooting Megan Thee Stallion, rejecting the rapper’s attempt to overturn the guilty verdict. In a ruling issued Wednesday, a three-judge panel from the state’s 2nd District Court of Appeal affirmed all three felony counts stemming from the July 2020 incident. Lanez (born Daystar Peterson), was convicted in December 2022 of assault with a semiautomatic firearm, having a loaded and unregistered firearm in a vehicle, and discharging a firearm with gross negligence. The trial drew widespread attention, sparking national conversations about misogyny, race, celebrity, and online harassment.  The appellate court dismissed each of the defense’s claims, siding with Los Angeles Superior Court Judge David Herriford’s handling of the high-profile case. Justice Anne H. Egerton wrote that it was appropriate for prosecutors to question Megan (born Megan Pete) about the emotional difficulty of testifying, noting the jury was properly instructed on how such statements relate to credibility. The court also upheld the decision to play a recorded interview from key witness Kelsie Harris, who repeatedly claimed memory lapses on the stand. Additionally, the judges ruled that an Instagram comment attributed to Lanez saying “that’s not true” about allegations against Harris was a minor and harmless issue, even if uncertain who posted it. Lanez’s legal team argued he was innocent and that errors during the trial warranted a new proceeding, but the panel rejected those assertions. His attorneys may still petition the California Supreme Court to hear the case. Lanez is currently serving a 10-year sentence at the California Men’s Colony after being moved for safety reasons following a stabbing at a previous facility. Megan Thee Stallion, whose career has continued to soar with Grammy wins and chart-topping hits, has not yet commented on the latest ruling.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 14, 2025
Sean “Diddy” Combs is actively participating in a residential drug rehabilitation program that could shorten his prison sentence by up to a year, his spokesman Juda Engelmayer confirmed this week. Combs, who is incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution in Fort Dix, New Jersey, has committed himself to sobriety and personal growth. Engelmayer said the Bad Boy Entertainment founder is “fully engaged” in the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP) and is “focused on growth, and committed to positive change.” Combs began serving his 50-month federal sentence on October 3 following his conviction on two counts of transporting people for prostitution. Prosecutors had sought more than 11 years. He received credit for 14 months of time served and is currently scheduled for release in May 2028, according to federal inmate records. Successful completion of RDAP could move that date up, though he would still face five years of supervised release, drug testing, and mental health treatment. While incarcerated, Combs is working in the prison’s chapel library, which he has described as a respectful and supportive environment. His team also denied recent rumors that he was caught brewing alcohol behind bars. The disgraced music mogul continues to appeal his sentence, which came after a trial that included harrowing testimony from ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura. Ventura detailed physical abuse and coercion into drug-fueled “freak-offs” with sex workers, describing the aftermath as humiliating and traumatic. During sentencing, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian condemned Combs for abusing his power and harming the women he claimed to love. Combs apologized in court, calling his actions “disgusting, shameful and sick.” Following his July conviction, his legal team even reached out to President Donald Trump seeking a pardon, according to a source close to the defense.
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EDITORIAL


By Cleon Alert October 9, 2025
When the NFL announced that Bad Bunny would headline the Super Bowl LX halftime show on February 8, 2026, it should have been a celebratory moment: a recognition of one of the most globally successful and culturally significant artists of the modern era. Instead, the reaction from conservative corners of America has been nothing short of absurd. From politicians to pundits to former football players, the outrage over a Puerto Rican superstar performing at America’s biggest sporting event reveals more about their own insecurities and biases than it does about Bad Bunny or his music. The outrage machine kicked into overdrive almost immediately. Just this Tuesday, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson called the NFL’s decision “terrible” and suggested 82-year-old Lee Greenwood should perform instead, as though nostalgia were the only valid form of patriotism. Recently, Fox Nation host Tomi Lahren embarrassed herself by claiming Bad Bunny “is not an American artist,” only to be reminded (on her own show) that Puerto Rico is part of the United States. Even Donald Trump jumped into the fray, claiming he’d “never heard of him,” a statement that says more about Trump’s cultural ignorance than about Bad Bunny’s reach. Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson also chimed in on the brouhaha, telling Bunny to “keep his ass away” from the Super Bowl if he doesn’t “like America.” Nonetheless it’s a pattern we’ve seen before: manufactured outrage cloaked in nationalism and cultural insecurity.

NEWS & NOTES


By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 19, 2025
Singer D4vd (real name is David Anthony Burke), has been identified as a suspect in the death of a 15-year-old girl whose remains were discovered in a vehicle registered to him, according to an LAPD source with direct knowledge of the investigation. The body of Celeste Rivas Hernandez was found Sept. 8 inside the trunk of a Tesla at a Los Angeles impound lot. Police said the vehicle had been parked for several weeks before it was towed, and the teen may have been deceased for an extended period prior to the discovery. Authorities believe the girl likely died in the spring, and the LAPD source told NBC Los Angeles that Burke has not been cooperative with investigators. The source also suggested Burke may have received help in dismembering and disposing of the body. However, Burke has not been charged with any crime, and the cause and manner of death remain “deferred” as the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner continues its investigation. A spokesman for the singer previously said in September that he was “fully cooperating with authorities,” though his attorneys did not respond to requests for comment Tuesday evening. Celeste Rivas Hernandez had been reported missing from Lake Elsinore, California, and was last seen on April 5, 2024. Because the manner of death has not yet been determined, police said it remains unclear whether any criminal culpability exists beyond the concealment of the body. The LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division continues to investigate, stating it is examining every aspect of the case to uncover the truth and pursue justice for the teen and her family.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 19, 2025
Usher has filed a lawsuit against one of his longtime collaborators, producer Bryan-Michael Cox, along with several entertainment industry figures, over a loan tied to a restaurant project in Atlanta that never materialized. According to the lawsuit filed on Nov. 14, Cox (who helped craft some of Usher’s biggest hits, including “U Got It Bad” and “Burn”) approached the singer in 2024 about investing in a restaurant and lounge called Homage ATL. Entertainment lawyer Alcide Honoré and industry officials Keith Thomas and Charles Hughes are also named in the complaint. Court documents reveal that while Usher declined to invest as a partner, he agreed to loan the group $1.7 million, wiring the funds in January with the expectation that they would secure a property for the venue. Months later, when no real estate had been purchased, Usher requested the money be returned. He received $1 million in August but has yet to recover the remaining $700,000. Usher claims Honoré told him repayment was “not that easy” because the funds had been used for “other purposes,” though no explanation has been provided for how the money was spent. Usher is now seeking $4.9 million in damages, representing $700,000 for each claim listed in the filing. The legal dispute comes as the R&B icon continues to expand his ventures outside of music. In a recent conversation with TMZ, Usher hinted at plans for a clothing line and shared that he’d love to see Metallica take the stage at a future Super Bowl halftime show.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Rhona Bennett has officially announced her departure from En Vogue, just five days after the group performed at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony without her. Bennett, 49, said she learned of the Nov. 8 performance at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater only after fans contacted her about her absence. The group appeared onstage with Salt-N-Pepa for “Whatta Man,” yet Bennett—who had a separate event scheduled that day—said she was never informed the performance was taking place. Bennett described the experience as a moment of clarity and said it contributed to her decision to step into what she called a “new season of creativity, freedom, and contribution.” Her departure follows a year of shifting dynamics within the group, including the February return of founding member Maxine Jones, who reunited with Terry Ellis, Cindy Herron, and Bennett for a four-member configuration earlier in 2025. Jones’ appearance at the Hall of Fame ceremony in Bennett’s absence drew additional attention, particularly given the group’s long history of lineup changes.  During her 22 years with En Vogue, Bennett contributed to the albums Soul Flower (2004) and Electric Café (2018), and performed with the group at major events including the 2020 Billboard Music Awards and the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. She also maintained a thriving career outside the group, founding Personal Power University and releasing her second solo album, Instant Classic, in 2024. With Bennett’s exit, En Vogue continues as a trio of founding members Ellis and Herron alongside the recently returned Jones—reviving speculation about the possibility of a full reunion with original member Dawn Robinson.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Paris Jackson’s effort to challenge the handling of her late father Michael Jackson’s estate encountered a setback after a Los Angeles court struck key portions of her petition. On Nov. 10, retired judge and specially appointed referee Mitchell L. Beckloff granted a motion from estate executors John Branca and John McClain, ruling that several claims in Paris’ filing targeted documents protected under California’s anti-SLAPP statute. The decision leaves her responsible for some of the estate’s attorney fees. The dispute centers on concerns Paris first raised in July 2025, including irregular “premium” payments to estate attorneys and slow, inconsistent financial filings she argued limited transparency for beneficiaries such as herself and brothers Bigi and Prince. While Beckloff struck claims involving protected filings, he left intact allegations tied to irregular approvals and procedural clarity. A spokesperson for Paris emphasized that the ruling was “limited to minor procedural issues” and said she intends to submit an updated petition. Executors Branca and McClain have defended their stewardship of Michael Jackson’s estimated $2 billion estate, noting they inherited massive debts but have since produced substantial profits for beneficiaries—claiming Paris alone has received around $65 million. With the court’s ruling, the executors maintain broad control over estate operations, even as the surviving elements of Paris’ petition allow for limited review. The dispute continues as major projects tied to the pop icon’s legacy move forward, including licensing deals and the highly anticipated biopic Michael.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Emmy-nominated filmmaker Chris Moukarbel has begun production on a new documentary chronicling the life and career of 13-time Grammy winner Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds. Backed by HarbourView Equity Partners and produced alongside Kenya Barris, the film promises an intimate look at one of the most influential songwriters and producers in modern music. Moukarbel, known for Gaga: Five Foot Two , is leading the project as it captures Babyface at a reflective point in his career. The documentary will feature exclusive, in-depth interviews with Babyface as he discusses the highs and lows of navigating the music industry over five decades. He will explore his songwriting and producing process, offering rare insight into the creation of some of his most iconic work. The film also goes behind the scenes of his collaborations with a star-studded roster, including Whitney Houston, Toni Braxton, Bobby Brown, Eric Clapton, Mary J. Blige, Michael Jackson, Boyz II Men (who thanks to TLC's Chilli, had to clear up some misinformation regarding their business relationship with Babyface), Mariah Carey, Madonna, Beyoncé, Lil Wayne, and SZA. In addition to Babyface’s own reflections, the documentary will include commentary from many of his key collaborators and feature behind-the-scenes and concert footage from his upcoming shows at The Palms in Las Vegas. With its blend of personal storytelling, archival material, and industry insights, the project aims to deliver the most comprehensive portrait yet of the artist whose songs have defined generations of R&B and pop music.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 14, 2025
A California appeals court has upheld Tory Lanez’s conviction for shooting Megan Thee Stallion, rejecting the rapper’s attempt to overturn the guilty verdict. In a ruling issued Wednesday, a three-judge panel from the state’s 2nd District Court of Appeal affirmed all three felony counts stemming from the July 2020 incident. Lanez (born Daystar Peterson), was convicted in December 2022 of assault with a semiautomatic firearm, having a loaded and unregistered firearm in a vehicle, and discharging a firearm with gross negligence. The trial drew widespread attention, sparking national conversations about misogyny, race, celebrity, and online harassment.  The appellate court dismissed each of the defense’s claims, siding with Los Angeles Superior Court Judge David Herriford’s handling of the high-profile case. Justice Anne H. Egerton wrote that it was appropriate for prosecutors to question Megan (born Megan Pete) about the emotional difficulty of testifying, noting the jury was properly instructed on how such statements relate to credibility. The court also upheld the decision to play a recorded interview from key witness Kelsie Harris, who repeatedly claimed memory lapses on the stand. Additionally, the judges ruled that an Instagram comment attributed to Lanez saying “that’s not true” about allegations against Harris was a minor and harmless issue, even if uncertain who posted it. Lanez’s legal team argued he was innocent and that errors during the trial warranted a new proceeding, but the panel rejected those assertions. His attorneys may still petition the California Supreme Court to hear the case. Lanez is currently serving a 10-year sentence at the California Men’s Colony after being moved for safety reasons following a stabbing at a previous facility. Megan Thee Stallion, whose career has continued to soar with Grammy wins and chart-topping hits, has not yet commented on the latest ruling.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 14, 2025
Sean “Diddy” Combs is actively participating in a residential drug rehabilitation program that could shorten his prison sentence by up to a year, his spokesman Juda Engelmayer confirmed this week. Combs, who is incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution in Fort Dix, New Jersey, has committed himself to sobriety and personal growth. Engelmayer said the Bad Boy Entertainment founder is “fully engaged” in the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP) and is “focused on growth, and committed to positive change.” Combs began serving his 50-month federal sentence on October 3 following his conviction on two counts of transporting people for prostitution. Prosecutors had sought more than 11 years. He received credit for 14 months of time served and is currently scheduled for release in May 2028, according to federal inmate records. Successful completion of RDAP could move that date up, though he would still face five years of supervised release, drug testing, and mental health treatment. While incarcerated, Combs is working in the prison’s chapel library, which he has described as a respectful and supportive environment. His team also denied recent rumors that he was caught brewing alcohol behind bars. The disgraced music mogul continues to appeal his sentence, which came after a trial that included harrowing testimony from ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura. Ventura detailed physical abuse and coercion into drug-fueled “freak-offs” with sex workers, describing the aftermath as humiliating and traumatic. During sentencing, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian condemned Combs for abusing his power and harming the women he claimed to love. Combs apologized in court, calling his actions “disgusting, shameful and sick.” Following his July conviction, his legal team even reached out to President Donald Trump seeking a pardon, according to a source close to the defense.
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THROWBACK THURSDAY


By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 13, 2025
As this Fall honoring change, maturity, letting go, and preparation comes to a close, this edition of Throwback Thursday is dedicated to an artist who has long celebrated both through his music, the incomparable Stevie Wonder . While his catalog overflows with timeless odes to love like “Ribbon in the Sky” and “Overjoyed,” today’s spotlight shines on a lesser-celebrated treasure from his discography: “These Three Words.” It’s a song that captures Wonder’s ability to distill deep emotion into the simplest yet most powerful expression imaginable. “These Three Words” appears on the Jungle Fever soundtrack, a 1991 album Wonder crafted with longtime collaborator Nathan Watts for Spike Lee’s film of the same name. The movie explored issues of race, addiction, and the complexities of interracial relationships in early-’90s America, while Wonder’s music provided a soulful emotional anchor. Despite mixed critical reception, the soundtrack achieved commercial success, and “These Three Words” reached No. 7 on the Billboard R&B chart, standing as one of the project’s most beloved cuts.  More than three decades later, “These Three Words” continues to strike a chord with listeners. The song’s message, urging us to say “I love you” before it’s too late, feels even more profound in a world marked by distance, loss, and uncertainty. Scroll through the YouTube comments today, and you’ll find fans sharing stories of how the song comforted them through grief or rekindled appreciation for loved ones. It’s proof that, once again, Stevie Wonder found the universal in the personal, reminding us that love, when spoken simply and sincerely, never loses its power.
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ALBUM REVIEW


By Joy Nkirote October 24, 2025
Odumodublvck’s Industry Machine hits like a storm: loud, confident, and impossible to ignore. The Nigerian rapper and songwriter from Abuja, known for fusing drill, grime, and Afrobeats, returns with his ninth project: a bold declaration of who he is and where he stands. Across 23 tracks, this project moves with purpose; the sound is raw yet intentional, every verse charged with conviction. From the opening title track, Odumodublvck sounds like a man done being underestimated, his flow sharp and unrelenting. The production matches his fire: layered, dynamic, and built to amplify his energy. “Grooving” featuring Davido and Seun Kuti bursts with joyful confidence, while “Unaware” with Pa Salieu lands heavier, exposing the harsh truths of the industry. What makes Industry Machine even more powerful is its honesty. Odumodublvck doesn’t sugarcoat anything, he lays bare his triumphs, frustrations, and the relentless grind behind them. On “Baby Reindeer,” he softens, revealing a more introspective side, while “Banza Boy” pulls back to the streets, pulsing with hunger and defiance. You can feel both pride and pain in his delivery, that delicate balance of vulnerability and bravado giving the album its pulse. Indeed, Industry Machine is more than an album, it’s Odumodublvck’s story in motion. A fearless expression of identity, ambition, and resilience, it captures a pivotal moment in African hip-hop’s evolution and reminds listeners that greatness often rises from grit.

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OUTSIDE THE STUDIO

By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 5, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood Staff October 15, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood Staff September 19, 2025
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THE DROP ZONE  ———————————————————————

By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 12, 2025
Jorja Smith bares her soul in the acoustic visual for “With You,” a tender exploration of love, trust, and emotional distance. The Walsall-born singer delivers raw vulnerability as she questions the state of a fading relationship, her soothing vocals floating over delicate guitar melodies. With its stripped-down production and heartfelt lyrics, the video highlights Smith’s signature blend of honesty and elegance.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 12, 2025
Keri Hilson delivers a sultry and emotional visual for “Again,” the latest single from her album We Need to Talk: Drama.Blending heartfelt lyrics about a toxic love cycle with a nostalgic sample of Splack Pack’s 1993 hit “Scrub the Ground,” the track comes alive through Hilson’s soulful delivery and Mr. Hanky’s slick production. StarringBeauty in Blackactor Shannon Wallace, the video perfectly captures love’s addictive back-and-forth.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 12, 2025
Kenyan rapper, singer, and songwriter Ssaru continues to push boundaries with her new single “Mastingo,” featuring Bensoul . Produced by Vic West and directed by Ben 47 , the track blends Ssaru’s fierce Swahili and genge bars with Bensoul’s smooth vocals, capturing the vibe of a weekend rendezvous with the catchy hook, “Leo niko na Mastingo.”Since debuting in 2019, Ssaru remains one of Kenya’s most dynamic and fearless musical voices.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 12, 2025
Canadian R&B singer-songwriter Savannah Ré returns with her heartfelt new single “Hold You,” produced by her husband YogiTheProducer . The soulful track celebrates intimacy, gratitude, and the comfort of genuine love. Ré describes it as a tribute to appreciating a partner’s care and safety. It marks her first release since her 2024 album Formed.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 12, 2025
Rising Providence-born singer-songwriter Storm Ford delivers soul and vulnerability on her new EP Down Payment , released October 24. Spanning eight tracks, including standouts like “Crutch on Me,” “Trying,” and “Step Back,” the project explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Blending raw emotion with smooth R&B production, Down Payment showcases Ford’s growth, authenticity, and captivating storytelling throughout its 23-minute runtime.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 7, 2025
Philadelphia-born, London-based artist ELUNIA releases her poignant new single “Strobe Lights,” a cinematic indie-electronic reflection on burnout, identity, and self-reconnection. Written amid the pressures of London’s recent post-production grind, the song captures the numbness of depression through ambient textures and soft electronic pulses. ELUNIA’s introspective lyrics (like the haunting line “what happened to that girl on the train?”) illuminate fleeting moments of clarity amid exhaustion and change.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 7, 2025
R&B vet Christopher Williams makes a powerful return with his new single “Good Enough,” which dropped November 7 via Virgin Music Group. Sampling Cherrelle’s 1988 hit “Everything I Miss at Home,” the smooth mid-tempo track showcases Williams’ refined vocals and timeless soul, setting the tone for his upcoming album War and Peace.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 7, 2025
Chicago-born, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter BJRNCK unveils her debut EP A Girl Like Mevia Geffen Records, a soulful, twelve-track journey through love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Blending Caribbean rhythms with gospel roots, BJRNCK channels influences like Brandy and Usher into moody, melodic R&B. With standout tracks like “Good 4 Me” and “Missing You,” the project’s raw honesty and sensual emotion cement her as one of today’s most compelling new voices.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 7, 2025
South Korean rapper-singer-songwriter CAMO returns with her haunting new single and visual “Secret (비밀),” from her 7-track EP Secret. The minimalist R&B track thrives on mood and whispered seduction, while the cinematic video portrays raw stories of abuse, betrayal, and self-discovery. Interwoven through symbolic phone lines, CAMO offers solace through her confessions, echoing her mission to connect directly with fans and comfort those carrying their own secrets.