HOT 97 https://www.hot97.com/ #1 for Hip Hop Wed, 28 May 2025 23:01:57 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://www.hot97.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/03/cropped-hot97-site-icon.png?w=32 HOT 97 https://www.hot97.com/ 32 32 231384650 Shannon Sharpe Postpones ‘Nightcap’ Tour Due To Sexual Assault Allegations https://www.hot97.com/news/shannon-sharpe-postpones-nightcap-tour-due-to-sexual-assault-allegations/ https://www.hot97.com/news/shannon-sharpe-postpones-nightcap-tour-due-to-sexual-assault-allegations/#respond Thu, 29 May 2025 00:30:00 +0000 https://www.hot97.com/?p=152900 Shannon Sharpe has announced the postponement of his Nightcap Tour with co-host Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson amid sexual assault allegations.

Now officially pushed back to 2026, the tour was to feature Sharpe and Johnson bringing their conversations to live audiences.

“We’ve decided to postpone the Nightcap tour,” Sharpe said during the most recent episode of the show.

“We look forward to seeing you guys in the summer of 2026. It’s going to be even bigger, even better,” Sharpe continued. “But Ocho and I have come to the conclusion that this is the best thing, as of right now, was to postpone the tour. We look forward to seeing each and every one of you in 2026.”

As HOT97 previously reported, Sharpe was accused of several sexual assault accusations and was hit with a $50 million lawsuit in April.

Filed in a Nevada state court, the Pro Football Hall of Famer is being accused of comitting assault, sexual assault, battery, and sexual battery, and engaged in the intentional infliction of emotional distress in what is described as a “rocky consensual relationship” that went on with a woman for almost two years. 

The plaintiff alleges that “Sharpe brutally sexually assaulted her several times at the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025.”

The suit also alleges that the ESPN personality Sharpe threatened to kill her on multiple occasions, was “manipulating and controlling,” and “repeatedly threatening to brutally choke and violently slap her.”

“One time specifically, he was yelling at her while there was a firearm visible in his room,” the complaint states. “Terrified for her safety, Plaintiff tried sharing her location with friends from her iPhone—just in case. But Sharpe saw her doing this. The moment he realized what she was doing, he grabbed her by the neck and told her, “If you ever do that again, I will f–king kill you.”

Sharpe has denied allegations levied against him.

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NBA Youngboy Receives Presidential Pardon   https://www.hot97.com/news/nba-youngboy-receives-presidential-pardon/ https://www.hot97.com/news/nba-youngboy-receives-presidential-pardon/#respond Wed, 28 May 2025 22:11:36 +0000 https://www.hot97.com/?p=152896

NBA YoungBoy has received a presidential pardon from President Donald Trump.

On Wednesday (March 28), YoungBoy, along with eight others, including real estate entrepreneurs Todd and Julie Chrisley and Michael Grimm, a former GOP Congressman, were granted clemency.

In a statement, YoungBoy expressed his gratitude for being pardoned.

“I want to thank President Trump for granting me a pardon and giving me the opportunity to keep building – as a man, as a father, and as an artist,” YoungBoy said in a statement shared to social media. “This moment means a lot. It opens the door to a future I’ve worked hard for and I am fully prepared to step into this.”

“Big thanks to the Pardon Czar, Ms. Alice Marie Johnson, for fighting for second chances for so many people, and to my lawyer, Brittany K. Barnett, for being in my corner and all your hard work to make this possible,” his statement continued. “And thank you to everyone who believed in me.”

Throughout his career, YoungBoy has faced constant legal troubles, including firearms charges and house arrest. Even while dealing with legal issues, the Baton Rouge rapper has dropped several albums and mixtapes while serving time in prison.

Youngboy’s pardon comes in just as his upcoming 27-city concert run, which begins on September 2 in Dallas, is called the Make America Smile Again (MASA) .

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Diddy Trial Recap: Former Stylist Testifies to Abuse and Control https://www.hot97.com/news/diddy-trial-recap-former-stylist-testifies-to-abuse-and-control/ https://www.hot97.com/news/diddy-trial-recap-former-stylist-testifies-to-abuse-and-control/#respond Wed, 28 May 2025 21:35:51 +0000 https://www.hot97.com/?p=152893 During a pivotal day in the federal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs, longtime stylist and associate Deonte Nash delivered emotional testimony, alleging the music mogul held a troubling level of control over Cassie Ventura during their decade-long relationship. Nash told jurors he witnessed repeated instances of abuse, including one in which Diddy allegedly slammed Ventura Fine’s head against a bed frame. He also claimed Diddy threatened to release intimate recordings and used emotional manipulation to isolate her from others.

Nash described a dynamic marked by control, claiming Ventura would often cry over Diddy’s attempts to dictate her career, social life, and appearance. According to Nash, the pattern of behavior extended beyond private settings. At one point, he recounted Diddy berating him over Ventura’s look at an Oscars event, portraying a man intent on managing every facet of her public image. The pressure, Nash said, weighed heavily on Ventura’s emotional state.

Kid Cudi Break-In, Jealousy Claims Surface in Diddy Trial

Prosecutors also introduced testimony surrounding a separate incident involving Kid Cudi. LAPD officer Chris Ignacio told the court he saw a vehicle registered to Diddy’s company leaving the scene of an alleged break-in at Cudi’s home. The incident, prosecutors allege, was driven by jealousy related to Ventura.

The courtroom also heard details about a separate episode where Ventura Fine allegedly suffered a gash requiring stitches after an argument turned physical in a hotel room. Nash said he and another team member attempted to intervene but were overpowered. “He was in a rage,” Nash recalled, describing how Diddy allegedly yanked Ventura Fine off a couch in the middle of the confrontation.

Diddy has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His defense team pushed back during proceedings, calling for a mistrial over what they claimed were prejudicial statements by prosecutors regarding possible destruction of evidence. The judge denied the motion. Meanwhile, cross-examinations of law enforcement witnesses revealed forced entry at Cudi’s residence but no stolen property.

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Charlie Rangel, Former Harlem Congressman, Passes Away At 94 https://www.hot97.com/news/charlie-rangel-former-harlem-congressman-passes-away-at-94/ https://www.hot97.com/news/charlie-rangel-former-harlem-congressman-passes-away-at-94/#respond Wed, 28 May 2025 21:17:36 +0000 https://www.hot97.com/?p=152876 Charles Rangel, a renowned former congressman who represented the Harlem community on Capitol Hill for nearly fifty years, passed away on Monday.

Michelle Stent, a spokesperson from the City College of New York, confirmed that Rangel passed in the hospital.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., paid tribute to Rangel’s legacy

“Charlie Rangel was a great man, a great friend, and someone who never stopped fighting for his constituents and the best of America,” Schumer wrote on Monday. “The list of his accomplishments could take pages, but he leaves the world a much better place than he found it.”

Born and raised in Harlem, his father, Ralph Rangel, was mostly absent and left the family. His mother, Blanche Mary Wharton, was a domestic worker and as a seamstress in a factory in New York’s Garment District. A promising student, Rangle dropped out of high school in his junior year and enlisted in the US Army. He was a veteran of the Korean War, where he earned a Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. 

After an honorable discharge, he attended college on the G.I. Bill, earning degrees from New York University and St. John’s University Law School.

Beginning his work in politics, her served in the New York State Assembly and was appointed Assistant U.S. Attorney

In 1970, he defeated legendary Harlem politician Rev. Adam Clayton Powell and would represent the community for more than 40  years. He became a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, dean of the New York congressional delegation, and, in 2007, the first Black chair of the influential Ways and Means Committee.

In 2017,  Rangel retired from the United States Congress 2017 and began serving as the Statesman-in-Residence at The City College. In 2022, Rangel launched the Charles B. Rangel Infrastructure Workforce Initiative (RIWI) at CCNY “to boost modern infrastructure jobs in upper Manhattan and the Bronx.”

He was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha and of the fraternity’s World Policy Council.

Rangle was the last surviving member of The Gang of Four, also known as the Harlem Clubhouse, which dominated the political world of Harlem. He was predeceased by David Dinkins, Basil Paterson, and Percy Sutton.

We at HOT97 extend our prayers and condolences to the family and friends of Congressman Charlie Rangel.

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Chris Brown Celebrates Daughter Royalty’s 11th Birthday https://www.hot97.com/news/chris-brown-celebrates-daughter-royaltys-11th-birthday/ https://www.hot97.com/news/chris-brown-celebrates-daughter-royaltys-11th-birthday/#respond Wed, 28 May 2025 19:26:25 +0000 https://www.hot97.com/?p=152888 Chris Brown is showing major dad energy as he celebrates his daughter Royalty’s 11th birthday. On Tuesday, May 27th, the R&B singer shared a heartfelt post for his eldest child, making sure fans knew just how much he adores her.

“Happy BIRTHDAY TO MY TWIN ❤❤❤,” Chris wrote on his Instagram Story. He added, “LOVE YOU SO MUCH CHICKEN NUGGET,” along with an “11” to mark her milestone age. The affectionate nickname and message continue Brown’s tradition of publicly acknowledging Royalty’s special moments, dating back to when she was first introduced to the world in 2014.

Royalty’s mom, Nia Guzman, also took to Instagram to honor their daughter with a series of loving tributes. One highlight was a sweet video montage capturing moments from Royalty’s childhood through the years. “HAPPY 11th BIRTHDAY TO MY PRINCESS @missroyaltybrown!!! I LOVE YOU SO SO SO MUCH,” Guzman captioned the touching clip.

In addition to celebrating Royalty, Chris recently shared another sweet birthday moment. While closing out the 2025 Millennium Tour in Los Angeles, he joined Ray J in singing “Happy Birthday” to Bow Wow’s daughter, Shai Moss, who turned 14. The moment was caught on video and shared by Bow Wow himself. “On the last night of the Millennium Tour, she got her uncles [Chris Brown] and [Ray J] to sing,” Bow Wow wrote, sharing the heartwarming clip.

Between heartfelt posts and surprise performances, Chris Brown is enjoying his role as a proud girl dad, making sure the young ladies in his life feel loved and celebrated.

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Drake Becomes First Artist With 10 Diamond Singles https://www.hot97.com/news/drake-becomes-first-artist-with-10-diamond-singles/ https://www.hot97.com/news/drake-becomes-first-artist-with-10-diamond-singles/#respond Wed, 28 May 2025 18:42:12 +0000 https://www.hot97.com/?p=152863 Drake just hit another milestone and this one puts him in a league of his own. On Wednesday, May 28th, the RIAA officially confirmed that the Toronto superstar has earned his 10th Diamond certification, more than any other artist in history.

“Drake has the most RIAA Diamond Certifications of any artist, ever,” the organization shared on social media, alongside a graphic displaying all 10 of his Diamond plaques. Two of his fan favorites, “Hold On, We’re Going Home” and his breakout hit “Best I Ever Had,” are the latest tracks to reach Diamond status, meaning they’ve sold over 10 million units each in the U.S.

Drake’s elite Diamond collection also includes “God’s Plan,” “Hotline Bling,” “One Dance,” “Life Is Good” with Future, “No Guidance” with Chris Brown, “Love Me” with Lil Wayne, and Travis Scott’s “SICKO MODE.” And he’s not done yet. “Nice for What,” from his 2018 album Scorpion, is already 9x Platinum and inching closer to Diamond.

This puts Drizzy ahead of country legend Garth Brooks and Post Malone, who each hold nine Diamond certifications. Drake is the first artist to reach double digits across both singles and albums.

Fans celebrated the achievement in the comments. One wrote, “You just simply can’t say anything bad about this lol. N—s staring greatness in the face.” Another added, “Looks like the 20v1 didn’t work out!”—a nod to Drake’s recent rap battles.

Beyond certifications, Drake continues to stay active in music. He dropped his collab project $ome $exy $ongs 4 U with PARTYNEXTDOOR in February and is gearing up to headline all three nights of Wireless Festival this July in London. He’s also teasing the return of OVO Fest in Toronto.

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Cassie Welcomes Her Third Child With Alex Fine https://www.hot97.com/news/cassie-welcomes-her-third-child-with-alex-fine/ https://www.hot97.com/news/cassie-welcomes-her-third-child-with-alex-fine/#respond Wed, 28 May 2025 18:31:08 +0000 https://www.hot97.com/?p=152870 Cassie Ventura and her husband, Alex Fine, have joyfully welcomed their third child into their family. 

The singer gave birth in a New York City hospital on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, just two weeks after concluding her emotional four-day testimony in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial.

Cassie and Alex, who married in 2019, are already parents to two daughters: Frankie, born in December 2019, and Sunny, born in March 2021 . The couple announced their third pregnancy in February 2025 with a heartfelt Instagram post featuring their daughters and Cassie’s baby bump, captioned simply with a blue heart emoji and “#3”.

Cassie and her husband, Alex Fine, released a statement via their lawyer after Cassie’s conclusion of her testimony in the Diddy trial.

“I hope that my testimony has given strength and a voice to other survivors, and can help others who have suffered to speak up and also heal from abuse and fear,” Cassie said, per TMZ. “For me, the more I heal, the more I can remember. And the more I can remember, the more I will never forget.”

The songstress says she’s “glad to put this chapter of my life to rest as I turn to focus on the conclusion of my pregnancy.”

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KWN Breaks Down Steamy Kehlani Kiss & Reveals She’s the Jealous Type https://www.hot97.com/interviews/kwn-breaks-down-steamy-kehlani-kiss-reveals-shes-the-jealous-type/ https://www.hot97.com/interviews/kwn-breaks-down-steamy-kehlani-kiss-reveals-shes-the-jealous-type/#respond Wed, 28 May 2025 18:28:11 +0000 https://www.hot97.com/?p=152866 KWN stopped by HOT 97 to talk to Nessa about her new single Do What I Say, what inspired it, and who it might be about. She opened up about her relationship non-negotiables, whether a cheater can change, and the difference between being an artist and a producer.

She also talked about being named Billboard’s Rookie of the Month and how her music has evolved since her 2022 EP. She shared the backstory of working with Kehlani on the Worst Behavior remix, what it was like touring together, and what really went down in the music video—including that now-viral kiss. KWN revealed how many takes it took, whether it was planned to go that far, and how she’d handle it if she were in a relationship.

She also talked about her parents’ influence on her sound, her dream to work with Pharrell, and who she’d choose between Pharrell and Beyoncé. Plus, she played “Do What KWN Says,” giving advice on crushes, exes, and situationships. Stream Do What I Say out now!

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Bow Wow Secures His 1st #1 Hit In 19 Years With “Use Me” https://www.hot97.com/news/bow-wow-secures-his-1st-1-hit-in-19-years-with-use-me/ https://www.hot97.com/news/bow-wow-secures-his-1st-1-hit-in-19-years-with-use-me/#respond Wed, 28 May 2025 17:48:21 +0000 https://www.hot97.com/?p=152864 Nearly 20 years after his last major hit, Bow Wow makes a confident return with “Use Me,” a sleek collaboration with Chris Brown that signals a new era.

Released on March 27, 2025, under BPC Music Group and produced by Hitmaka, the single blends smooth R&B textures with sharp rap cadences, capturing a matured sound built for summer nights and late drives.

Bow Wow first made waves in 2000 as a 13-year-old prodigy, dominating charts and headlining tours while most teens were still in school. By his early twenties, he had already stepped away from the spotlight, his legacy intact. Now, he’s back—not to relive the past, but to show growth and remind listeners of his staying power.

“Use Me” has already racked up over five million Spotify streams and more than 1.4 million YouTube views, proof that fans never stopped listening. But the success of the track runs deeper than numbers. Bow Wow’s delivery feels grounded and deliberate, shaped by experience. The lyrics explore vulnerability and loyalty, anchored by Chris Brown’s smooth, emotive chorus. Together, they channel a late-night intimacy that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

The reunion with Brown, a decade in the making, adds weight. Their chemistry—built on a history of past collaborations—feels effortless. It’s a reminder of how both artists have evolved, trading youthful bravado for emotional depth.

This isn’t a comeback fueled by hype or nostalgia. Bow Wow moves with clarity and intention. The production is tight, the songwriting personal, and his presence undeniable. He’s not reinventing himself—he’s refining what’s always been there.

“Use Me” isn’t chasing trends. It’s Bow Wow reminding us that the artist who once owned the summer still knows how to command attention. The voice is older, the tone wiser, but the charisma remains. With this single, he doesn’t just re-enter the conversation—he changes it.

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Nicki Minaj Explains Why She’s Taking Her Time On New Album https://www.hot97.com/news/nicki-minaj-explains-why-shes-taking-her-time-on-new-album/ https://www.hot97.com/news/nicki-minaj-explains-why-shes-taking-her-time-on-new-album/#respond Wed, 28 May 2025 17:14:27 +0000 https://www.hot97.com/?p=152860 Nicki Minaj, after closing out 2023 with Pink Friday 2, has remained relatively quiet on the music front in 2025. In a recent Vogue Italia cover story on May 27th, the Queens rapper reflected on her creative process as she works on her next album. Although she has a strong collection of songs ready, Nicki emphasized she isn’t in a hurry to release them. “I want the record to mean something, both for the fans and for me. I’ll never be one of those people who puts out songs just to put them out. I love music. I respect it,” she explained.

Once the new album is ready, Nicki looks forward to touring again to reconnect with her loyal fanbase, the Barbz. “To experience it all again, as soon as possible. For me, and for the Barbz,” she shared. Her previous tour supporting Pink Friday 2 was historic, becoming the highest-grossing rap tour by a woman.

The interview also touched on a lighter moment—Nicki’s viral “Did I Lie” video from a 2018 CRWN interview promoting her Queen album. She confessed, “I hate how I look in that video. When people started using it I thought, ‘I’m blocking you all!’ Then I gave in, it’s actually pretty funny.”

Although she’s kept a low profile so far this year, Nicki made a striking appearance at the 2025 Met Gala. Wearing a navy pinstripe mermaid gown by Thom Browne, she told Entertainment Tonight the outfit made her feel like she was “putting on your Sunday’s best and being iconic in your own world.”

Pink Friday 2 debuted in December 2023 with major success, hitting number one on the Billboard 200 and moving 228,000 equivalent album units in its first week, the biggest opening week for a female rap album in the 2020s.

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