B2K has reunited for “Mileage,” the group's first new single in more than 20 years, marking a new chapter for Omarion, Lil' Fizz, J-Boog, and Raz-B. Built around a smooth, '90s-inspired R&B groove, the track showcases passionate lead vocals from Omarion, rich harmonies from the group, and a fitting rap verse from Lil' Fizz. Lyrically, “Mileage” celebrates an undeniable connection that rises above a partner's romantic past.

Coming to you out of Houston, TX, multi-talented R&B and soul singer Bryant Keith delivers a deeply reflective statement with his latest single, “Man,” fusing contemporary R&B with hazy lo-fi textures and subtle trap influences. Drawing from his experience as a licensed psychologist, Keith examines the emotional weight, vulnerability, and internal conflicts many men face but rarely express. His understated vocals and atmospheric production create an intimate listening experience, making “Man” both a soulful meditation on masculinity and a reminder that self-awareness is a vital step toward healing.

Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Ambré has released her long-awaited sophomore album, PEYOTE, via Roc Nation Distribution. The 15-track project, featuring serpentwithfeet and Destin Conrad, explores themes of healing, transformation, self-discovery, and spiritual growth through deeply personal songwriting and immersive production. Led by the previously released singles “Laugh Later, Cry Now” and “She˚,” PEYOTE marks a confident new chapter in Ambré’s artistic journey, showcasing her growth while delivering an intimate and emotionally resonant listening experience.

Longtime pop and R&B star Tinashe has released the official music video for her new single “Crash Out,” directed by 91 Rules, alongside the announcement of her eighth studio album, Popstar, due Sept. 25. Following a promotional stunt where she smashed a white BMW with a sledgehammer in a Los Angeles parking lot, the video finds Tinashe riding a scooter through the city with friends while reflecting on life's breaking points. Driven by a dark, atmospheric yet groovy beat, “Crash Out” delivers an emotional anthem built for the club.

Grammy-award-winning singer/songwriter/producer Syd has unveiled the official music video for “Any Time” featuring James Fauntleroy alongside the release of her third solo album, Beard, via Free Lunch/Warner Records. The romantic comedy-inspired visual stars Syd and her wife, Simone, as the pair bring the song’s complicated love story to life. While Syd reflects on repeatedly returning to a doomed relationship, Fauntleroy delivers a standout melodic verse from the opposite perspective. Their rich harmonies and the track’s spacious, soulful production create one of the album’s most emotionally resonant moments.

Brandy has addressed recent online discussion about her appearance after fans commented on her weight following a hometown celebration in McComb, Mississippi, where the Grammy-winning singer was honored. In an Instagram post shared on July 11, the 47-year-old reflected on aging, self-worth, and the importance of looking beyond outward appearances. Accompanying a series of portraits, Brandy wrote that people often search for value in "youth, perfection, approval," and physical appearance, but emphasized that life's experiences inevitably shape every person. She urged followers to show greater compassion, noting that while it takes only moments to judge someone's appearance, it can take a lifetime to understand what they have endured. The singer concluded by reminding fans that every person is "someone's child," "someone's dream," and "a soul," adding that kindness carries just as much weight as criticism. Brandy has previously been candid about her own struggles with body image. In her memoir Phases, released earlier this year, she revealed that she battled bulimia as a teenager and during an abusive relationship, describing how the eating disorder became a way to cope with disappointment and the pressure of others' expectations. Her latest message serves as a powerful reminder to approach conversations about people's bodies with empathy rather than judgment.

Imprisoned R&B singer R. Kelly has formally petitioned President Donald Trump to commute his 30-year federal prison sentence while his motion for a new trial remains pending. The request, recently made public by the U.S. Department of Justice's Office of the Pardon Attorney, seeks a reduction of Kelly's sentence rather than a full presidential pardon. The documents supporting the clemency request have not been released, and the application is still under review. The filing comes more than a year after Kelly's attorney, Beau Brindley, publicly urged Trump to intervene on the singer's behalf, claiming Kelly's life was in danger and alleging federal authorities had engaged in misconduct during his incarceration. Although Brindley previously said he was pursuing discussions with the White House, he did not formally seek clemency at that time. Instead, he focused on a motion for a new trial in federal court, arguing prosecutors improperly obtained Kelly's jail correspondence. Federal prosecutors have dismissed those allegations as baseless, and the motion remains under consideration by U.S. District Judge Martha Pacold. Brindley is also facing legal scrutiny of his own. The Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission recently filed a 31-page complaint accusing the attorney of misconduct, including misleading judges and collecting unearned legal fees from clients. Brindley has denied the allegations and said he remains committed to Kelly's clemency effort, confirming this week that the application is still active. A hearing on the disciplinary complaint has not yet been scheduled.

Lil Durk wins a court ruling separating racketeering charges from his murder trial. Stay updated on his legal journey.

R&B legend Patti LaBelle found herself at the center of online debate after performing the national anthem before the 2026 MLB All-Star Game on Tuesday at Philadelphia's Citizens Bank Park. The 82-year-old Grammy-winning singer, performing in her hometown, delivered a soulful rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" ahead of the first pitch of the 96th Midsummer Classic, stretching out portions of the anthem and appearing to miss a few lyrics during the performance. The performance quickly sparked mixed reactions across social media. Some viewers criticized LaBelle for putting her own spin on the anthem, with several calling the rendition "disrespectful" and arguing that the patriotic song should be performed without vocal embellishments. Others expressed disappointment over the extended arrangement, while questioning whether a different performer should have been selected for the nationally televised event. Despite the backlash, many fans came to LaBelle's defense, pointing to her decades-long career and legendary status in R&B. Supporters praised her vocal ability at 82 years old and applauded her for taking on one of the most challenging songs to perform live. The anthem concluded with fireworks surrounding the ballpark, a military flyover, and a standing ovation from thousands of fans in attendance, underscoring the celebratory atmosphere despite the online criticism.