Jordyn Woods is firing back at social media critics who questioned why Jaden Smith played such a prominent role in her recent wedding to NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns. Woods, 28, took to TikTok on Aug. 29 to address the online chatter with a heartfelt tribute to her lifelong friendship with the “Karate Kid” actor. The controversy began following the couple’s Aug. 15 nuptials in Malibu, where fans noticed Smith’s presence at several intimate events. Social media users questioned why the rapper was photographed with the bridesmaids at the bridal shower and seen assisting Towns with his wardrobe before the ceremony. “Why is Jaden with all of the girls? And at the bridal shower? And helping Karl with his shoes?” Woods wrote over a video montage of the festivities. She provided a succinct response to the inquiries: “Because he’s never missed an important moment in my life.” The video montage showcased the depth of their bond, featuring photos of the pair from infancy through adulthood. Woods explained that her relationship with Smith began when they were toddlers, largely because her late father, John Woods, worked as a sound engineer on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” Woods credited Smith with being a consistent source of support, particularly during the most difficult periods of her life. She noted that he was by her side during her father’s funeral and was the first person she called after Towns proposed on Christmas Day 2025. “I’m so lucky I’ve never had to know a life without our friendship,” Woods wrote in her caption, calling Smith the “epitome of a day ONE.” https://www.tiktok.com/@jordynwoods/photo/7679544609420184863?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7587117011193873951 Beyond their personal history, Smith had a professional reason for being heavily involved in the groom’s preparations. Recently named the first men’s creative director for Maison Christian Louboutin, Smith personally designed a custom pair of size-20 red-bottomed shoes for Towns, the New York Knicks center. Smith shared his own tribute on Instagram, posting photos of him helping Towns put on the custom footwear. “My Best Friend Got Married And I Made Karl Size 20 Red Bottoms,” Smith wrote. “Jordyn I Love You So Much. Congratulations Karl I Love You Bro.” While Smith was not an official member of the bridal party, Woods made it clear that his presence was non-negotiable. She concluded her post by expressing her excitement for the future, joking that she cannot wait to return the favor at Smith’s own wedding one day.

Silkk the Shocker stopped by HOT 97 to talk to Nessa about the Cash Money & No Limit Reunion Tour and what it took to finally bring the two legendary New Orleans movements together. He talks about whether there was ever real beef between Cash Money and No Limit, the competition between the two camps, the possibility of Lil Wayne popping out on select tour dates, and his upcoming collaboration with Juvenile. Silkk also takes us back to No Limit’s historic run, working with Beyoncé and Destiny’s Child, Tupac showing him love early in his career, and what it was like when Snoop Dogg joined No Limit. Silkk also opens up about the criticism of his unique rap flow and the artists who have since shown him love for influencing their style, the story behind his collaborations with Mýa, and his brother C-Murder’s incarceration. Plus, he confirms the story that the Houston Rockets offered him a $75,000 contract—and explains why he chose music when he was making $120,000 a night on tour.

A Nevada jury on Monday found Duane “Keffe D” Davis guilty of first-degree murder for orchestrating the 1996 drive-by shooting that killed hip-hop legend Tupac Shakur. The verdict marks the first ever conviction in a case that remained one of the most infamous unsolved mysteries in the music industry for nearly 30 years. Davis, 63, was convicted of murder with use of a deadly weapon with the intent to promote, further or assist a criminal gang. The 12-member jury deliberated for approximately three hours following a trial that spanned several weeks. Davis now faces a potential maximum sentence of life in prison for his role in the slaying of the 25-year-old rapper. While prosecutors never alleged that Davis pulled the trigger himself, they successfully argued that he acted as the “shot caller” for the group. Chief Deputy District Attorney Binu Palal told the court that Davis acquired the firearm and “went hunting” for Shakur and Death Row Records co-founder Marion “Suge” Knight after members of the rapper’s entourage attacked Davis’ nephew, Orlando “Baby Lane” Anderson, earlier that evening at the MGM Grand. “The core facts remain. The material facts remain,” Palal said during closing arguments, emphasizing that Davis repeatedly placed himself inside the white Cadillac from which the fatal rounds were fired. Prosecutors relied heavily on Davis’ own public admissions in media interviews and his 2019 memoir to build their case. Defense attorney Michael Sanft countered by arguing that the prosecution lacked physical evidence, such as surveillance footage or phone records, linking Davis to the crime scene on Sept. 7, 1996. Sanft characterized his client’s previous statements as exaggerated “tall tales” intended for financial gain or notoriety, telling the jury that Davis was “full of crap.” Shakur was shot while sitting in a vehicle at a red light near the Las Vegas Strip. He died six days later from his injuries, while Knight survived his wounds. The shooter was long suspected to be Anderson, who was killed in an unrelated shooting in 1998. The trial featured testimony from 24 prosecution witnesses and three defense witnesses. D avis chose not to testify in his own defense during the proceedings. The conviction brings a legal conclusion to a case that has inspired countless documentaries and conspiracy theories since the height of the 1990s West Coast-East Coast rap rivalry.

The founder of Blackground Records has leveled a stunning accusation against his own son regarding the 2001 plane crash that killed R&B superstar Aaliyah. Barry Hankerson, the late singer’s uncle and former manager, claims in new legal filings that his son, Jomo Hankerson, failed to fulfill his duties as a travel coordinator for the ill-fated trip to the Bahamas. The allegations surfaced in court documents obtained by TMZ, highlighting a deepening rift within the Hankerson family decades after the tragedy. According to the filings, Barry alleges that Jomo was specifically hired and compensated to manage travel logistics for Aaliyah’s “Rock the Boat” music video shoot. Barry contends that the fatal accident might have been avoided entirely had Jomo followed through on his professional responsibilities. Aaliyah was only 22 years old when she and eight others died on August 25, 2001. Their twin-engine Cessna 402B crashed shortly after takeoff from Marsh Harbour in the Abaco Islands. A subsequent investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board determined the aircraft was significantly overloaded with equipment and passengers, which contributed to the pilot’s inability to maintain altitude. The legal documents suggest that Barry’s relationship with his son never recovered from the emotional fallout of the crash. Barry claims that Jomo’s alleged negligence in coordinating the return flight led to the chaotic circumstances at the airport. Investigators also later discovered that the pilot, Luis Morales III, had traces of cocaine and alcohol in his system and was not authorized to fly that specific aircraft. This lawsuit is the latest chapter in a long history of legal and emotional turmoil surrounding Aaliyah’s estate and musical catalog. The singer was at the height of her career when she died, having just released her self-titled third album. In recent years, her music was finally made available on streaming services after being withheld for two decades due to disputes involving Blackground Records. While the new court filings focus on the logistics of the 2001 flight, they also underscore the lasting trauma the event caused the Hankerson family. Barry said the crash caused a permanent fracture in his bond with Jomo, who previously served as an executive at the record label. The lawsuit marks one of the few times a family member has publicly blamed another for the specific circumstances of the singer’s death. Representatives for Jomo Hankerson have not yet provided a public response to the specific allegations regarding his role in the travel coordination. The case continues to move through the court system as the public reflects on the 25-year legacy of the “Princess of R&B.”

Mariah Carey has already given fans a reason to look toward 2027. The legendary singer recently hinted that new music is on the way. Carey made the revelation while meeting fan Jack Banana in Beverly Hills. During the encounter, she was asked about her next musical chapter. Her answer was brief, but it carried plenty of weight. “Next year,” Carey said when asked about new material. View this post on Instagram That would put her next release in 2027, giving Lambs another project to anticipate from one of pop and R&B’s defining voices. Carey’s announcement arrives after the 2025 release of “Here For It All,” her 16th studio album. The project debuted at No. 7 on the Billboard 200 and received widespread praise. The album also appeared to have more material waiting in the wings. Carey previously teased a deluxe edition, though that expanded project has yet to arrive. Mariah Carey Hints At New Music In 2027 Now, the singer’s latest comment suggests her focus could be moving toward an entirely new body of work. Carey has not revealed a title, release date or track list. She also has not shared details about the sound or collaborators attached to the project. Still, anticipation comes naturally with Carey. Few artists have maintained such a distinctive presence across multiple generations. Her influence stretches from pop and R&B to contemporary vocal performance and songwriting. Her catalog remains a cornerstone of modern music. Her holiday classic “All I Want for Christmas Is You” has become an annual cultural phenomenon. Her signature ballads and vocal runs remain equally influential. For the Lambs, however, the immediate question is what Carey has planned next. With only two words, she supplied an answer. “Next year.” Now, 2027 looms as a potential new era for Carey. The details remain under wraps, but the anticipation has already begun.

Singer D4vd’s defense team has withdrawn from his murder case after a Los Angeles judge determined he qualified for appointed counsel, handing the high-profile prosecution to the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office. Attorneys Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski and Regina Peter asked the court to permit them to withdraw from representing D4vd. The court granted the request and appointed the public defender’s office, according to a statement the attorneys provided to TMZ. “This morning the court granted our request to withdraw as counsel and appointed the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office, after it was determined David qualified for appointed counsel,” the lawyers said. D4VD’s Attorney Exit, Appointed Public Defender The attorneys did not disclose why they could no longer represent the 21-year-old singer. The appointment of a public defender indicates the court determined D4vd is indigent and eligible for publicly funded representation. The development marks a striking turn for an artist who reportedly earned at least $11 million from his Interscope Records deal. It remains unclear how much of that money remains available to D4vd or why he now qualifies for appointed counsel. There have been few public indications of extravagant spending. D4vd reportedly lived in a rental home, with no widely reported signs of an unusually lavish lifestyle. Berk, Bednarski and Peter said their withdrawal does not reflect a loss of confidence in their former client. “We continue to support David and his defense against these serious charges,” they said. “We are grateful that the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office has taken over the representation and that David has a highly capable and committed team of attorneys and investigators behind him.” The change in counsel could affect the case’s schedule, although no trial date has been set. It was not immediately clear whether the transition would prompt additional proceedings or delay the eventual trial. The public defender’s office will now lead D4vd’s defense as the case moves forward.

Miranda Pearman-Maday is setting the record straight regarding her knowledge of wife Raven-Symoné’s iconic television career, addressing long-standing online criticism during a recent podcast appearance. Speaking with actress Keke Palmer on the “Tea Time With Raven & Miranda” show, Pearman-Maday clarified that while she was aware of the Disney Channel star’s fame, she was never a dedicated viewer of the hit sitcom “That’s So Raven” during its original run. The controversy stems from a previous interview on Palmer’s own podcast, where Pearman-Maday’s comments about not watching the show led some fans to believe she was unaware of her wife’s cultural significance. Pearman-Maday noted that this specific misunderstanding triggered a wave of online hostility, with critics accusing her of disrespecting Raven-Symoné’s legacy or marrying her without appreciating her professional impact. “This is where people are getting confused,” Pearman-Maday said during the episode. “Watching a show is different than knowing someone exists. I just wasn’t running home to sit down to tune in to That’s So Raven. I knew who Raven was.” She further explained that the show was often on in the background of her childhood home because her younger sister was a fan, but she personally did not follow the plotlines or consider herself a “diehard” enthusiast at the time. Palmer acknowledged the intensity of the fan response, noting that Raven-Symoné’s reach spanned across all demographics during the early 2000s. The sitcom, which followed the life of psychic teenager Raven Baxter, was a massive success for Disney, becoming the first original series on the network to reach the 100-episode milestone. Its popularity eventually led to multiple spinoffs, including “Cory in the House” and the recent sequel series “Raven’s Home.” Despite the public outcry, Raven-Symoné defended her wife’s perspective, stating that she intentionally avoids romantic involvement with people who are enamored by her celebrity status. The actress explained that a partner who “fangirls” over her work would be a deterrent rather than an attraction. “I have never dated someone who was a fan,” Raven-Symoné said during the discussion. “So, I will never marry someone who’s a fan.” The couple, who married in 2020, emphasized that their relationship is built on their personal connection rather than Raven-Symoné’s Hollywood resume. Pearman-Maday added that she has since watched the series in its entirety after getting married to better understand the work that defined her wife’s early career.

The daughter of Quality Control Music co-founder Pierre “P” Thomas is calling her father a “miracle” as the music executive continues to recover from a serious heart attack. Journey Thomas shared a touching tribute on social media Friday, expressing her gratitude for her father’s survival following a medical emergency that occurred earlier this month in Las Vegas. “God is good. My dad is truly a miracle, and I’m so blessed to still be able to say he’s here,” Journey wrote via Instagram. View this post on Instagram She added that the family has relied heavily on their faith during the health crisis, stating that “God’s grace has carried us through every moment.” The 45-year-old music mogul, who is a central figure in the hip-hop industry, was hospitalized on Aug. 21. According to reports, Thomas was treated in an intensive care unit in Las Vegas. While specific details regarding the cause of the heart attack have not been released, the news sent shockwaves through the entertainment community. In the days following his hospitalization, the record label was forced to address social media rumors regarding the executive’s condition. Quality Control issued a statement to shut down false reports of his passing, confirming that Thomas was alive and under the care of medical professionals. The label has since provided optimistic updates, noting that he is “improving and recovering more and more every day.” Thomas is best known for co-founding Quality Control Music, the Atlanta-based powerhouse label that helped launch the careers of global superstars such as Migos, Lil Baby and City Girls. As Thomas continues his rehabilitation, his family has requested privacy while remaining vocal about their appreciation for the support they have received.

J. Cole canceled his scheduled performance at the Golden 1 Center on Tuesday night following a fatal vehicle accident involving a member of his touring production crew. The incident, which occurred early Tuesday morning, involved a logistics truck transporting equipment for the artist’s current tour. Dreamville Records, the label founded by Cole, released a statement on social media confirming the cancellation shortly after the news broke. The label expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating that their thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the crew member during this difficult time. According to reports from the California Highway Patrol, the accident took place on an interstate near Yolo County. Investigating officers said the driver of a big rig drifted onto the right shoulder of the freeway before attempting to steer back into the lane. The sudden correction caused the vehicle to lose control and overturn. Sgt. David Barker of the California Highway Patrol said in a statement that the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation. Barker noted that authorities are looking into whether the driver was distracted or fell asleep behind the wheel, but confirmed the solo occupant did not survive the impact. The Golden 1 Center in Sacramento was expected to be a sold-out stop for the North Carolina rapper, who has been touring extensively behind his recent projects. The venue and promoters have not yet announced if the performance will be rescheduled for a later date. Representatives for the artist confirmed that fans who purchased tickets through Ticketmaster will receive automatic refunds. Those who used third-party platforms or other points of purchase are encouraged to contact their original sellers to process their claims. J. Cole, known for his introspective lyrics and dedicated fanbase, has not yet issued a personal statement outside of the official label release. The tragedy highlights the logistical risks faced by large-scale concert productions, which often involve dozens of vehicles traveling thousands of miles between tour stops. The remainder of Cole’s tour schedule is currently under review as the team manages the aftermath of the accident.

A South Carolina federal judge has postponed rapper Blacc Zacc’s RICO trial until April 2027, granting his request for additional time to prepare his defense. U.S. District Judge Jacquelyn D. Austin granted the continuance Friday, Aug. 21, in the federal case against Blacc Zacc, whose legal name is Zachary Chapman. The ruling moves the rapper’s trial from September 2026 to April 2027. Judge Austin found that delaying the proceedings serves the interests of justice. USA (@SC_Courts) v. Blacc Zacc: Judge Jacquelyn D. Austin GRANTED Blacc Zacc, real name Zachary Chapman, Motion of Continuance in new order filed with the court on Friday, August 21. The federal RICO trial has been rescheduled from September 2026 to April 2027. Judge… pic.twitter.com/76XJZLD2OB — Bryson “Boom” Paul (@brysonboompaul) August 22, 2026 The court also determined that those interests outweigh the defendants’ and public’s interest in a faster resolution. Blacc Zacc remains in federal custody. The court previously denied his request for bond release. The rapper faces allegations tied to an alleged murder-for-hire scheme. He has denied the allegations through his defense, and the charges remain pending. The case has unfolded alongside major developments in Blacc Zacc’s personal life. His girlfriend, South Carolina rapper and Love & Hip-Hop: Atlanta personality Renni Rucci, recently shared a photograph with him on Instagram. The post appeared Sunday, Aug. 16, and featured “Death Do Us Part” by Fridayy and MTS. Rucci and Blacc Zacc began dating in 2023. The couple welcomed a son in early July while Chapman remained detained pending trial. Rucci has continued to publicly support the rapper during his legal proceedings. Her relationship with Blacc Zacc is also featured in the final season of Love & Hip-Hop: Atlanta. The case now faces a substantially longer timeline before reaching trial. The April 2027 setting gives prosecutors and defense attorneys additional time to prepare for the federal proceedings. For Blacc Zacc, the continuance also means remaining behind bars while the case moves forward. The court’s decision does not resolve the allegations against him. Instead, it establishes a new timeline for the federal prosecution. With his trial delayed until next year, Blacc Zacc’s legal battle will continue alongside the rapper’s growing public profile and his family’s efforts to support him outside the courtroom.