GRUNGECAKE

Category: News

  • Cash Cobain, breakout American producer-artist known for popularising Sexy Drill, announces debut headlining tour: See dates

    Will you attend?

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    Earlier today, successful American producer-artist Cash Cobain announced his debut headlining tour, ‘Party with Slizzy’ in partnership with Monster Energy. Six hours ago, the ‘Calling For You’ producer released the official music video for his track, ‘Sick n Tired with OnlyHeaven’. The video opens with Cobain and a friend sitting on a sofa as they watch a young lady (Marni), who appears to be someone who piqued his interest, on Instagram with another man. Subsequently, he heads to the club to enjoy himself.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aKb1_7wNR4M&h=315]

    According to the information received, ‘The Monster Energy Outbreak Tour Presents: Party with Slizzy’ will feature special guests (not to be revealed until closer to the start date of the tour, September 7). The milestone tour will kick off with a hometown show and travels through twenty-two additional dates across the United States and Canada. Check out the dates below.

    The Monster Energy Outbreak Tour Presents: Party With Slizzy

    Sep 07 – New York, NY – Pier 17
    Sep 09 – Washington, DC – The Howard Theatre
    Sep 10 – Norfolk, VA – The NorVa
    Sep 11 – Charlotte, NC – The Underground
    Sep 12 – Atlanta, GA – Center Stage
    Sep 14 – Houston, TX – Warehouse Live
    Sep 15 – Dallas, TX – The Echo
    Sep 17 – Phoenix, AZ – Walter Studios
    Sep 18 – Los Angeles, CA – Echoplex
    Sep 19 – San Diego, CA – House of Blues
    Sep 20 – Las Vegas, NV – Area 15
    Sep 22 – Seattle, WA – The Showbox
    Sep 24 – San Francisco, CA – The Fillmore
    Sep 25 – Sacramento, CA – Ace of Spades
    Sep 28 – Denver, CO – Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom
    Sep 30 – Minneapolis, MN – Varsity Theater
    Oct 01 – Milwaukee, WI – The Rave II
    Oct 02 – Chicago, IL – Avondale Music Hall
    Oct 04 – Detroit, MI – The Majestic Theatre
    Oct 05 – Toronto, ON – The Phoenix Concert Theatre
    Oct 07 – Montreal, QC – Club Soda
    Oct 08 – Philadelphia, PA – Brooklyn Bowl
    Oct 09 – New Haven, CT – Toad’s Place

    And before we get out of here, the Slizzy master himself has a message for his fans: “What’s good! It’s the Slizzy, Cash Cobizzy, I’m coming to your city so you can party with the Izzy. I’m so excited to partner up with The Monster Energy Outbreak Tour bc the energy is going to be on a trillion! Hope you’re ready.” – Cash Cobain

    More about Cash Cobain:

    The tour follows a breakout year for the Bronx artist-producer, who sold out the Brooklyn Paramount last fall in his biggest headlining show to date and brought his signature Sexy Drill sound to the stage at his own Slizzy Fest, a hometown concert last spring at Irving Plaza that drew thousands and was shut down mid-performance due to overwhelming demand. With his name now joining the ranks of past Outbreak Tour alumni like 21 Savage, Latto, and Post Malone, Cash Cobain enters this next chapter of this legendary concert series poised to bring the Slizzy movement to a national stage.

  • Apple shares ‘Big Man’, a short film starring English-Ghanaian music star Stormzy: Watch

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    Four days ago, Apple released a short film shot entirely on an iPhone 16 Pro called ‘Big Man’ starring British music star rapper-songwriter Stormzy exclusively through its YouTube channel to its twenty million subscribers.

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    According to the description, “the fictional story of Tenzman, a world-weary musician, and the two bright, joyful kids who come into his life by chance. Soon the trio find themselves on a journey together — one that will reveal a better way forward for them all.”

    Check out the twenty-minute film directed by the Oscar-winning creator, Aneil Karia. It has over five million views and counting.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUrLMJQf2Bw&h=315]

    About the new step into a new space for the award-winning British Grime superstar, he said, “Music is my first love, but film is my second. #Merky Films is something I’ve been dreaming about for ages.”

    Stormzy says it is “a space for powerful British stories and a solid home for fresh, unexpected art” and “a natural next step for everything we do at #Merky – sharing our stories, spotlighting important voices and making room for those who deserve to be seen and heard.”

    If it is your first time coming across the first Black British rapper to headline the Glastonbury Festival in 2019, there is no way it could be your fault. We may judge the people in your life, though.

  • Tragic Brazil hot-air balloon crash leaves 8 dead, 13 injured

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    On June 21, 2025, a hot-air balloon carrying twenty-one people exploded in mid-air over Praia Grande, Santa Catarina, Brazil, resulting in eight fatalities and 13 injuries. The balloon, operated by Sobrevoar, ignited near 8 AM local time when a backup torch in the basket sparked a fire. Footage captured by witnesses vividly showed flames enveloping the balloon’s basket, prompting several passengers to jump to safety. Whilst thirteen survivors, including the pilot, were hospitalised with varying injuries, eight passengers did not survive. Four were burned in the basket, whilst four others perished after jumping during the descent.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIykh8Bia2c&h=315]

    Authorities have launched a formal investigation, expected to conclude within thirty days, to determine the exact cause of the blaze. Both the Santa Catarina state government and President Lula da Silva have expressed condolences and pledged full support for the victims and their families. Governor Jorginho Mello declared a period of mourning and stated that state resources would aid recovery efforts. Praia Grande, nicknamed the “Brazilian Cappadocia” is a renowned hot-air ballooning destination with around 25–30 daily flights during peak season. Following the crash, Sobrevoar suspended all operations indefinitely, citing a previously unblemished safety record.

    This incident is the second hot-air balloon disaster to strike Brazil in under a week, raising serious concerns about ballooning safety standards. As the aviation community awaits the investigation’s findings, families of the victims and survivors continue to grapple with the aftermath of this devastating event.

  • Dodgers commit $1M to support families affected by Los Angeles immigration raids

    In a powerful display of community impact, the Los Angeles Dodgers have pledged one million to assist families affected by recent federal immigration raids across Greater Los Angeles. The donation will be directed through partnerships including the California Community Foundation and the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, providing legal assistance, mental‐health support, and essential services.

    This initiative marks the Dodgers’ first public response since widespread criticism emerged. Fans and civic leaders had urged the team to take a stand after ICE operations targeted Latino neighborhoods—prompting protests at Dodger Stadium and a petition backed by unions and community groups. The pressure intensified when singer Nezza performed the US national anthem in Spanish before a game, defying team staff and spotlighting the issue.

    Dodgers President Stan Kasten emphasised the organisation’s responsibility to the community, stating the pledge represents “a leading role on behalf of those affected”. The announcement followed the team’s refusal to allow federal agents into Dodger Stadium parking lots during a raid—an action widely reported and lauded.

    Teams from across Los Angeles have joined in solidarity. Angel City FC and LAFC previously endorsed immigrant communities, whilst Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and player Kiké Hernández voiced strong support for Latino families.

    Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called the donation a sign of unity in challenging times, and Congressman Jimmy Gomez underscored the importance given the Dodgers’ large Latino fan base.

    This move not only addresses immediate needs but also signals a shift in how major sports franchises engage with social issues, reinforcing the Dodgers as a pillar of civic responsibility in Los Angeles.

  • NPR sues Trump over executive order, cutting public media funding

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    National Public Radio (NPR), alongside three Colorado-based member stations, has filed a federal lawsuit challenging President Trump’s Executive Order 14290—“Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Biased Media”—issued on May 1, 2025. The order directs the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) and federal agencies to cease all funding for NPR and its television counterpart PBS.

    Key Legal Claims and Stakes

    The lawsuit contends that the order violates both the First Amendment and the separation of powers, asserting that the president lacks authority to withdraw funding that Congress has already appropriated. NPR argues that the move is clearly retaliatory, based on perceived “liberal bias”, and punishes the news organization for its editorial content.

    The filing quotes President Trump’s April Truth Social post labeling NPR and PBS “Radical Left ‘Monsters”, asserting this demonstrates the order’s political motivation.

    From a financial standpoint, NPR itself receives only about 1 % of its budget from CPB, while local stations rely on that funding for 8–19 % of their operations. A funding cut would endanger journalism infrastructure, emergency alerts, and community programming, the lawsuit notes.

    Broader Context and Response

    This litigation follows earlier legal opposition from CPB over board removals, and mirrors PBS’s separate lawsuit filed days later.

    Media watchdogs like the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press argue the order “strikes at the heart of free speech”, reinforcing that only Congress, not the president, holds the power of the purse.

    A DC federal judge is expected to review NPR’s motion for summary judgment, potentially setting a landmark precedent on executive authority versus media independence. This lawsuit spotlights a pivotal clash over public media funding, journalistic freedom, and constitutional checks and balances, with implications extending well beyond NPR’s network.

  • Lizzo comes clean: “I tried Ozempic… But that’s not what did it”

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    Pop powerhouse Lizzo, 37, recently settled speculation once and for all—yes, she did try Ozempic and other GLP‑1 medications early in her weight‑loss journey, despite previously dismissing those rumours. But in a heartfelt and empowering chat on Trisha Paytas’ Just Trish Podcast (June 19), she made one thing crystal clear: The drugs weren’t the driving force behind her transformation.

    “It’s just the science, for me, calories in vs. calories out… Ozempic works because you eat less food… but if you can just do that on your own and get mind over matter, it’s the same thing”, Lizzo admitted.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwDpqwcNWbQ&h=315]

    The vegan exit that changed everything

    Lizzo revealed a major insight: she had been vegan for a decade—loading up on fake meats, rice, bread—and consuming a staggering 3,000–5,000 calories daily without feeling full. But a return to whole foods—lean beef, chicken, fish—sparked real change:

    “I was actually full and not expanding my stomach by putting a lot of fake things in there that wasn’t actually filling me up,” she explained.

    Since pivoting her diet in 2023, Lizzo reports shedding 16% body fat and reducing her BMI by roughly 10.5 points.

    Not just physical — A mental shift, too

    Lizzo emphasised her journey wasn’t just about exercise or diet—it was a mindset reset. She ditched distractions like sugary treats, daily Starbucks runs, and emotional eating. Instead, she narrowed in on sustainable habits and self-love.

    In her own words, she’s moved from body positivity to body neutrality:

    “I’m not going to lie and say I love my body every day… some days I adore my body, and others when I don’t feel completely positive.”

    It’s clear: this glow-up is built on consistency, self-awareness, and hard work.

    Owning the Ozempic narrative — And defending others

    Rather than shame those who use GLP‑1s, Lizzo defended them. She called out fatphobia and urged compassion:

    “It’s a drug to help somebody with something they’re struggling with. Telling someone they’re cheating is fatphobic”, she told the podcast audience.

    Her transparency aims to dismantle stigma around weight‑loss medications and affirm that resilience and science go hand in hand.

    What this means for you — And her fans

    It’s okay to pivot. Lizzo’s shift away from veganism wasn’t a failure—it was insight. Drugs aren’t cheating. If a tool helps you, it’s valid. Personal journeys vary.

    Lizzo reminds us: “Everybody’s body is different. Find out what works for you”.

    Final verse

    Lizzo’s most recent chapter is about liberation—not conforming to expectations, but embracing truth. She mixed trial and error (including Ozempic), whole foods, calorie awareness, mental discipline, and a new mindset. The result? A healthier, happier, more authentic version of herself—and maybe, a powerful message for her fans too.

  • Jussie Smollett announces engagement to boyfriend Jabari Redd

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    On June 20, 2025, just a day before what would have been his forty-third birthday, former Empire star Jussie Smollett proposed to his boyfriend, actor Jabari Redd. He shared the happy news via Instagram, captioning a series of photos, “I’ll be spending my birthday with my Fiancé… He said YES.” The images captured a touching moment—from Smollett getting down on one knee to Redd’s emotional “yes,” followed by hugs, champagne, and a close-up of the ring.

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    A new chapter after challenging years

    This joyous engagement marks a major turning point in Smollett’s life—especially after years of legal turmoil stemming from the 2019 hate‑crime incident. Though initially convicted in December 2021 and sentenced in March 2022, the Illinois Supreme Court overturned his convictions in November 2024, citing due‑process concerns, and he later settled a civil suit by donating $50,000 to charity.

    The engagement signals a hopeful new beginning amid resilience and ongoing redemption.

    From screen partners to life partners

    Smollett and Redd met whilst working on Jussie’s film The Lost Holliday, where Smollett directed and starred alongside Redd. He cast Redd as his character’s partner, describing the film as “a message of hope and resilience”.

    That on‑screen chemistry has now blossomed into an off‑screen commitment, underscoring the bond they’ve nurtured both personally and creatively.

    Why this matters

    Representation: This is a high-profile same‑sex, Black engagement in Hollywood, contributing positively to LGBTQ+ visibility.

    Personal Triumph: Smollett is turning a chapter marked by personal and public trials into one defined by love and affirmation.

    Cultural Impact: With film colleagues, family, and friends celebrating, it shows a community rallying behind his new journey.

    In summary

    Jussie Smollett is embracing a new life direction. Engaged to Jabari Redd, he’s stepping forward into love, creative collaboration, and personal healing. As they celebrate this milestone, they’re also sharing a story of resilience, hope, and next-chapter beginnings—personally and professionally.

  • Stream Nigerian artist FirstKlaz’s trilingual song ‘Gen-Z Arewazobia’ featuring verses from Jeriq and Zlatan

    Proudly Gen-Z and trilingual

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    On June 13, rising award-winning Nigerian artist FirstKlaz made a profound statement with his latest collaboration, ‘Gen-Z Arewazobia’, featuring talented Nigerian rapper Jeriq (Igbo) and the beloved Street-Hop pioneer Zlatan (Yoruba), includes the original backing track tailored by the Hausa-speaking band Iliya Entertainment Music from Northern Nigeria. Whilst the way he promotes his music is usually fun and innovative, FirstKlaz decided to make a statement piece inspired by three of the dominant tribes in the populous West African country. Instead of perpetuating divisive tribalism and harmful attacks, they agreed to come together in song for the sake of unifying this generation.

    As someone who has admired Nigerian culture from The Western, it is a marvel to see.

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  • Listen to GRAMMY-winning super producer H-Money’s infectious new single ‘Sweet Gurl’ featuring R&B superstars Rotimi and Ne-Yo

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    Yesterday, GRAMMY-winning super producer Harmony Samuels, also known as H-Money, released a majestic new R&B banger for the Summer called ‘Sweet Gurl’ featuring chart-topping multiple-award-winning luminary crooners Rotimi and Ne-Yo, which handsomely flips R&B legend Tyrese’s smash single ‘Signs of Love Makin” from his third studio album ‘I Wanna Go There’ co-written by Tyrese Gibson and Harvey Mason Jr, who is the current CEO of the Recording Academy. On the track, the astute hit-making artists sing about making up for the lost time by ravelling in steamy intimacy and hot-blooded emotion. The track is from H-Money’s profound genre-bending musical journey that he aptly calls ‘FRO&BEE Show’, a creative and innovative portmanteau of AfroSoul and R&B.

    About the hypnotising single and his innovation, H-Money explains: “Sweet Gurl embodies RNB, AfroSoul, and Love Riddims all at once. It marks the beginning of my beautiful musical journey, a fusion of genres and a celebration of collaboration. You’ll feel cultural shifts and sonic waves collide. Welcome to the FRO&BEE Show!”

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    As a devout fan of R&B, African music and H-Money’s divine music catalogue, I am looking forward to supporting his forthcoming official music video for his heartfelt single. It promises to “capture the romance and rhythm embedded in the track.” The comms continues, “The video brings the song’s emotion to life. Fans can expect a visual that enhances the song’s message of connection and soulful expression.”

    More about H-Money (Harmony Samuels):

    As one of the most sought-after producers in the industry, H-Money (real name Harmony Olakunle David Samuels) has crafted hits for global superstars including Ariana Grande, Fantasia, Chris Brown, and the list goes on. Now, with ‘Sweet Gurl’, the London-born Nigerian prolific songwriter and musician steps confidently into the spotlight, blending his roots, influences, and vision into something that feels fresh. This release is more than just a single – it’s the first offering from a story H-Money is ready to tell.

    His illustrious career spans from 2005 to the present day, marked by an impressive discography that testifies to his undeniable talent and versatility. From scoring music for blockbuster films like ‘Hotel Transylvania 2 and 3’ to contributing to hit television series like ‘Empire’, Samuels’ creative endeavours transcend boundaries. Throughout his career, he collaborated with renowned artists such as Chris Brown, Maroon 5 and Janelle Monáe, establishing himself as a versatile producer. From 2011 to 2015, his work on projects like Mary J Blige’s ‘My Life II… The Journey Continues’, Michelle Williams’ ‘Say Yes’ featuring Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland, and Ariana Grande’s ‘Yours Truly’ further highlighted his exceptional talent, including hits like ‘Right There’ and ‘The Way’ (which reached #9 on the US Billboard Hot 100).

    Samuels co-wrote and produced Fantasia featuring Kelly Rowland and Missy Elliott’s  ‘Without Me’, earning a GRAMMY nomination for Best R&B Song. Samuels expanded his repertoire by collaborating with artists like Ella Mai, Teyana Taylor, and Major, Simi and Mannywellz. His versatility was evident as he explored various genres while maintaining his distinctive style. Influenced by his cultural heritage, his sound also reflects his African roots, notably showcased in collaborations with Afrobeats artists like Tiwa Savage. Beyond his musical endeavours, Samuels is driven by a deep-rooted spiritual foundation, inspiring him to establish Studio Studies in 2019—a platform fostering wisdom and innovation among creatives in the entertainment industry. As the founder of BOE Global and label BOE Records, Samuels extends his influence beyond music, delving into the culinary world with Fellow, a culinary sanctuary in Westwood, California. As he continues to evolve and innovate, Harmony “H-Money” Samuels remains a beacon of creativity, unity, and purpose, enriching the world with his extraordinary talents and unwavering dedication to making a difference.

  • R&B legend Teedra Moses to celebrate 20th anniversary of debut album ‘Complex Simplicity’ with Los Angeles concert

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    On Friday, goated contemporary R&B singer-songwriter Teedra Moses will celebrate the twentieth anniversary of her debut album, ‘Complex Simplicity’. In 2015, the ‘Backstroke’ artist released a twelve-track mixtape called ‘Clair Voyant’, which features her answer to Drake’s global smash ‘Hotline Bling’. Six months ago, the Louisiana-born and raised singer-songwriter performed on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert, highlighting key singles from her cult classic album.

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    Before the night ends, her special guest, Haitian-American singer-songwriter and violinist Sherie (co-writing Ariana Grande’s ‘Positions’ and featured as one of the violinists at the ‘Beyoncé Bowl’), will join her at the El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles, California. The all-ages show will begin at 8 o’clock. Additional performance dates include June 19 at The New Parish in Oakland, California, and June 22 at Baltimore AFRAM 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.