Author: Wamala

Brandy is seen on December 22, 2023 in New York City

A national emergency is quietly brewing across America’s dinner tables. The government shutdown, now dragging into its third week, is pushing the nation’s largest anti-hunger program—SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)—to the brink of collapse. If Congress doesn’t reach a deal soon, over 42 million Americans could lose their food assistance by November 1. That’s right—millions of families may have no benefits, no backup, and no food support heading into the holiday season. SNAP Funding Set to Run Dry by November 1 According to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, the USDA’s SNAP program is expected to run out of funds entirely by…

A view out the window of One Bryant Park as Invesco QQQ presents an Evening with Martha Stewart during the Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival at One Bryant Park

Eminem has quietly moved on to a new chapter in his personal life, reportedly dating Katrina Malota, a stylist and makeup artist who’s been part of his inner circle for years. Sources tell TMZ that Katrina has worked with Eminem for years, handling his hair and grooming for music videos, photoshoots, and public appearances. Her work extends beyond Em, having collaborated with Snoop Dogg, Robin Thicke, and 50 Cent, according to her professional website. While it’s unclear exactly how long the couple has been together, insiders say this is a private, low-key relationship built on years of mutual trust and…

R&B legend Brian McKnight is already celebrating what he calls a victory in his defamation case against ex-wife Julie McKnight, after she failed to appear in court. Brian filed a motion for default judgment, and while the court hasn’t officially signed off yet, that hasn’t stopped him from toasting the moment in style. In a celebratory video, Brian is seen smoking a cigar and skipping around, declaring:“The verdict is in — according to the courts, trying to ruin my name and bring harm to my family in a book filled with lies equals $8.8 million.” The Case Against “Mama Bear:…

Brian Mcknight Through The Years

Dave East is officially running his own lane. With the release of his latest album, “Karma 4”, the New York rapper is enjoying the full perks of creative independence, controlling every aspect of his music. TMZ Hip Hop caught up with Dave during his Los Angeles press run, where he took a break to check in with Marathon Burger, which he declares is the best burger not only in California but in multiple states. “This place is life. You can’t come to LA without hitting Marathon,” Dave said. Honoring Nipsey Hussle With “12 Months” “Karma 4” features 25 tracks, including…

Dave East

Hip-hop mogul 50 Cent brought luxury and culture together this week with the exclusive launch of his Branson 505 Edition Cognac, a collaboration between Sire Spirits and Lalique. Each bottle carries a $25,000 price tag, but Fiddy promises it’s more than just a drink—it’s art, legacy, and giving back. “This is about craftsmanship, culture, and giving back. We created something that’ll outlive all of us—real art that tells a story, and every bottle helps someone else write theirs,” 50 Cent told TMZ Hip Hop. A Star-Studded Manhattan Event The launch took place at Lalique Townhouse in Manhattan, where the 505…

50 Cent Unveils $25K Branson 505 Edition Cognac

Comedian Tony Rock is speaking out about the recent wave of A.I.-generated videos featuring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., saying some things just shouldn’t be joked about — and MLK is one of them. We caught up with Rock at LAX on Friday and asked for his take on Sora-created videos showing MLK in absurd scenarios, like wrestling in a WWE ring or working behind a KFC counter. His reaction? “Leave the man out of it.” “I get why people are doing this stuff, but Dr. King? Nah, that’s a bridge too far,” Rock told us. Comedy, Respect, and Historical…

Rap star NLE Choppa recently found himself in an unexpected clash with actor Jonathan Majors during a taping of Kirk Franklin’s “Den Of Kings” podcast. What was meant to be a safe space for faith-based discussion turned tense, and Choppa hints it might have roots in his past interactions with Meagan Good. TMZ Hip Hop spoke with Choppa at LAX, where he explained how the encounter unfolded. Majors instructed the 22-year-old rapper to re-read his Bible after Choppa questioned the Holy Trinity of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. While Choppa is still processing the theological discussion, he believes Majors…

Hip-hop mogul Gucci Mane marked his favorite day of the year, October 17, in legendary fashion: by releasing his 17th studio album and a new memoir. Fans are calling it a double dose of Gucci magic, offering life lessons for both ears and eyes. “Episodes” drops in 23 tracks, giving fans a front-row seat into Gucci’s life, stories, and the ups and downs that shaped him into a rap icon. No Approval Needed, Just Truth TMZ Hip Hop caught up with Gucci in New York City for the big celebration. The rapper admits that some of the juiciest revelations in…

Gucci Mane

Gucci Mane Hot Shots

Fans attending Brandy’s United Center show in Chicago Saturday night were shocked when the singer suddenly left the stage mid-performance. The R&B star took to Instagram Sunday morning to explain the unexpected exit, revealing that weeks of nonstop rehearsals caught up with her, leading to severe dehydration that almost made her faint. “After weeks of rehearsals, I felt suddenly dehydrated and needed to step away for my safety,” Brandy wrote, adding that she initially returned to the stage but struggled to connect with the music sonically. She candidly acknowledged that it wasn’t her best show by any means, expressing gratitude…

Brandy

Brandy Through the Years

Comedian Steve Bridges, beloved for his hilarious POV skits and deadbeat boyfriend character, has tragically passed away at the age of 41. His wife, Chelsey Bridges, shared the heartbreaking news on social media Wednesday, revealing that Steve passed away in his sleep on their couch. The Peoria Police Department in Illinois confirmed they responded to a call at the home that day, listing the cause as natural causes. “It was totally out of the blue,” Chelsey tearfully told TMZ, noting that Steve had been feeling healthy and had been working on his diet and fitness. A Family History of Early…

Steve Bridges