GRUNGECAKE

Category: News

  • White South Africans say “no thanks” to Trump’s immigration offer

    [media-credit name=”EPA” link=”https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy4mmrr7j8mo” width=1498 align=”none”][/media-credit]In a recent development, United States President Donald Trump extended an offer to resettle white South Africans, particularly Afrikaners, in the United States as refugees fleeing alleged persecution. This proposal, however, has been met with a lukewarm response from the intended beneficiaries, many of whom prefer to confront domestic challenges rather than emigrate. On Friday, President Trump signed an executive order to cut United States aid to South Africa, citing concerns over an expropriation act signed by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. This act aims to redress historical land inequalities rooted in the nation’s apartheid past by facilitating state expropriation of land in the public interest. The executive order also provides for the resettlement of Afrikaners—descendants of early Dutch and French settlers who own a significant portion of South Africa’s farmland—in the United States as refugees facing unjust racial discrimination.

    Despite the offer, prominent Afrikaner organisations have expressed a commitment to addressing issues within South Africa. AfriForum, an Afrikaner-led group, acknowledged the recognition of injustices against Afrikaners but opposed the withdrawal of aid, emphasising that Afrikaners are indigenous and not leaving the country. Similarly, the Solidarity Movement, which includes AfriForum and the Solidarity trade union and claims to represent about 600,000 Afrikaner families, reiterated their dedication to the nation. “We may disagree with the ANC, but we love our country. As in any community, there are individuals who wish to emigrate, but repatriation of … stated.

    Individual Afrikaners have also voiced their perspectives. Neville van der Merwe, a … from Bothasig near Cape Town, remarked, “If you haven’t got any problems here … ? There hasn’t been any really bad taking … ?”

    The South African government has defended its land reform policies, asserting that they aim to address racial disparities in land ownership without resorting to forced seizures of white-owned land. President Ramaphosa has emphasised that the government has not confiscated any land and will not be bullied. In summary, while President Trump’s offer underscores international attention to South Africa’s internal policies, many Afrikaners appear resolute in their decision to remain in their homeland and address challenges from within.

  • Ozzy Osbourne says he “can’t walk”, due to battle with Parkinson’s disease

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    Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath, has revealed significant challenges in his battle with Parkinson’s disease, particularly affecting his mobility. Despite these health issues, Osbourne is set to reunite with the original Black Sabbath lineup for a final performance on July 5, 2025, at Villa Park in Birmingham, England. This event, aptly named “Back to the Beginning”, will mark the band’s first performance together in two decades. In a recent interview, Osbourne candidly discussed his condition, stating, “I can’t walk.” His wife and manager, Sharon Osbourne, provided further insight into his health, noting that while Parkinson’s has severely impacted his ability to walk, it hasn’t affected his singing voice. She emphasised Ozzy’s dedication to his craft, mentioning that he works with a physiotherapist daily to maintain muscle movement.

    The upcoming concert is anticipated to be an emotional farewell for both Osbourne and Black Sabbath. The lineup includes original members Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward, alongside other prominent bands such as Metallica, Slayer, and Alice in Chains. Proceeds from the event will support various charities, including Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorns Children’s Hospice. Reflecting on his journey, Osbourne expressed a mix of gratitude and determination. He acknowledged the toll that Parkinson’s and multiple spinal surgeries have taken on his mobility but remains resolute in his passion for music. “For all my complaining, I’m still here”, he remarked, underscoring his enduring spirit.

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    As the date approaches, fans worldwide are preparing to bid farewell to a band that has significantly shaped the Heavy Metal genre. Despite the challenges, Osbourne’s commitment to delivering a memorable performance remains unwavering, ensuring that Black Sabbath’s legacy will be celebrated in a fitting and impactful manner.

  • Irv Gotti, co-founder of Murder Inc Records, dies at 54

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    Irv Gotti, the influential music producer and co-founder of Murder Inc Records, has died at the age of fifty four. Born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr on June 26, 1970, in Queens, New York, Gotti was instrumental in shaping the Hip-Hop and R&B scenes of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Gotti co-founded Murder Inc Records in 1998, an imprint of Def Jam Recordings, and played a pivotal role in launching the careers of artists such as Ja Rule and Ashanti. He produced numerous hits, including Ja Rule’s ‘Always on Time’ and Ashanti’s ‘Foolish’, and collaborated with prominent artists like JAY Z, DMX, and Jennifer Lopez.

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    In early 2024, Gotti suffered a minor stroke attributed to complications from diabetes, a condition he had been battling for years. He openly discussed his health challenges, acknowledging that “diabetes is deteriorating my body”. Following the stroke, he adopted a healthier lifestyle, including dietary changes, and appeared to be on the path to recovery. However, in early February 2025, reports emerged that Gotti had suffered another stroke, resulting in a brain bleed. Despite medical interventions, he was declared dead on February 5, 2025. 

    Beyond his musical achievements, Gotti faced legal challenges, including a 2005 acquittal on money laundering charges. He also ventured into television, creating the BET series “Tales”, which showcased his storytelling abilities and further cemented his influence in the entertainment industry. Irv Gotti is survived by his three children: Angie, Sonny, and JJ. His contributions to music and culture have left an indelible mark, and he will be remembered for his significant impact on the industry.

  • DJ Khaled announces 14th studio album ‘Aalam of God’

    “This is not my last album, it’s my Black album.”

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    Today, DJ Khaled announced his fourteenth full-length studio album, ‘Aalam of God’. Without giving away too many details, we think the biggest lesson is put God first and always prepare yourself for the worst. The person closest to you may be the one to take you down or take you out. Pairing with the album release news, the celebrated creative has garnered seventeen new RIAA certifications, amplifying his recent diamond certification for ‘I’m the One’ featuring Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance the Rapper, and Lil Wayne. Watch the short film below starring Mark Wahlberg and Anthony Ramos, until we receive more information about the highly-anticipated LP boasting two Drake tracks and a potential Rihanna record.

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  • Heinz announces limited-edition collaboration with GRAMMY Award-winning producer Mustard, out this Summer

    Mustard, formerly DJ Mustard and now the Chief Mustard Officer, debuted his national campaign with one of America’s well-known brands, Heinz, on Sunday night during the 2025 GRAMMY Awards ceremony. The GRAMMY Award-winning record producer’s hands appeared in the commercial alongside the limited product. As pictured, the golden yellow bottle seems to have matching rhinestones. It is the first time the company has ever co-created a new sauce in the United States and is also the first new edition in nearly ten years.

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    About the major collaboration, the esteemed producer shared, “This collab coming to life is a big deal and something that has been decades in the making for me. Everyone knows me for my beats and sound, but what they don’t know is that cooking and grilling [is] a huge part of my life. I’m on the grill every chance I get. I’ve been using Heinz since I was a kid, so partnering with them is something I’ve always wanted to do.”

    According to multiple reports, as the Chief Mustard Officer, Mustard will play an “integral role in every part” of his collaboration with the company including exclusive recipes, hosting events this year, and more.

    “Much like Heinz, Mustard is someone who goes all in when he creates something to put out into the world. He has been a fan of the brand for years, so it was only a matter of time before Mustard met his perfect match with Heinz. It’s been great to collaborate with him on so many levels, as this partnership will manifest in an amazing new sauce remix that we know our collective fans will love. He has brought the same energy and commitment he pours into all of his music to this partnership, and we can’t wait for all the surprises in store for the year ahead!,” expressed Todd Kaplan, North American Chief Marketing Officer for Kraft Heinz.

    Based on the Heinz website, the collaboration will become available this Summer.

  • Kanye West launches new collection in support of forthcoming ‘Bully’ album

    According to the comms, Ye’s fans could also pre-order his upcoming album, ‘Bully’.

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    If you haven’t seen Ye and his wife, Bianca Censori, on the 2025 GRAMMY red carpet, you’re sleeping. Amidst several exciting moments of the day, the Chicago-bred global superstar walked the glorified red carpet with his significant other. After possibly receiving a cue from her man, Bianca dropped her large fur coat to the ground for a photo opportunity that would forever stay in the minds of people with eyes and good vision. Later that evening during the awards ceremony, the musical genius and legend released a commercial for his new YZY collection designed Gosh Rubchinksiy. The minimalist clip featured sweatshirts, t-shirts, and shoes, all for $20, feeling like an early Christmas gift for die-hard Ye fans.

    Take a look at the commercial that aired during Music’s Biggest Night.

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  • Vybz Kartel to release tenth-anniversary album ‘Viking (Vybz Is King)’, tomorrow ahead of the 2025 GRAMMYs

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    Possibly to commemorate his first GRAMMY nomination, Jamaican Dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel, who recently came out of prison (July 2024) after serving thirteen years out of a lifetime sentence, plans to release his tenth-year-anniversary album, ‘Viking (Vybz Is King)’, tomorrow (January 31, 2025). The seminal album promises seven new tracks, including ‘Unstoppable’, ‘Enchanting’, ‘Gon Get Better’ (sampled by Fifth Harmony and ‘Dancehall’ (retitled, ‘Dancehall Cyah Stall’). Some weeks ago, the legendary Jamaican Portmore-born artist also had a historical homecoming concert in Kingston, Jamaica.

    About the album, Vybz Kartel says, “This album is special because we are celebrating many milestones. We are recognising the impact of the Viking album 10 years later, and then, my ability to create new music for the first time since I have been out. Plus it’s with my day one producer, TJ Records, and engineers Ricard “RedBoom” Reid and Dominic “Troublemekka” McDonald. It’s a full circle moment, and like I said on the first track ‘God is the Greatest”.

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    His album, ‘Party With Me’, earned Vybz Kartel his first GRAMMY nomination for Best Reggae Album. The winner will be announced at the 67th GRAMMY Awards Premiere Ceremony on Sunday, February 2, 2025, in Los Angeles at the crypto.com Arena. Listen to one of the singles ‘Amout’ from the album below.

  • Rihanna makes first court appearance at A$AP Rocky trial, accuser testifies

    On January 29, 2025, Rihanna made her first appearance at the Los Angeles trial of her partner, A$AP Rocky (legal name Rakim Mayers), who faces two felony assault charges for allegedly firing a handgun at former friend Terell Ephron, known as A$AP Relli. If convicted, Mayers could face up to 24 years in prison. During the proceedings, Ephron testified about the 2021 incident in Hollywood. He recounted confronting Mayers, who, after an initial scuffle, allegedly drew a firearm from his waistband. Ephron described the moment, stating, “He turned around and then it was like BOOM!” He added that he felt his hand become hot and realized he had been grased by a bullet.

    Mayers’ defense attorney contends that the shots were not from a real gun but from a prop starter pistol, asserting that Ephron was aware of this and is attempting to extort Mayers. The trial, which began on January 21, has delved into the strained relationship between the two, who were once close friends and collaborators within the A$AP collective. Rihanna, who shares two young sons with Mayers, attended the trial discreetly, sitting between Mayers’ mother and sister. Her presence underscores the high-profile nature of the case. The trial is ongoing, with the defense scheduled to cross-examine Ephron in the coming days.

  • DJ Khaled celebrates 17 new RIAA certifications; sold over 75 million records

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    GRAMMY Award-winning global music mogul DJ Khaled has garnered a staggering seventeen new certifications from the RIAA for a bevy of culture-defining hits, amplifying his recent Diamond certification for ‘I’m The One’ featuring Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance the Rapper and Lil Wayne. This avalanche of achievements speaks to his continued influence on Hip-Hop as one of its most reliable and consistent hitmakers.

    Among these awards, he scored an 8x platinum certification for ‘Wild Thoughts’ featuring Rihanna and Bryson Tiller, 5x platinum certifications for ‘I’m On One’ featuring Drake, Rick Ross, and Lil Wayne and ‘Every I Chance I Get’ featuring Lil Baby and Lil Durk as well as 4x Platinum certifications for ‘Do You Mind’ featuring Nicki Minaj, Chris Brown, August Alsina, Jeremih, Future, and Rick Ross, ‘For Free’ featuring Drake, and ‘Popstar’ featuring Drake, a 3x platinum certification for ‘No Brainer’ featuring Justin Bieber, Quavo, and Chance the Rapper, a 2x Platinum certification for ‘Wish Wish’ featuring Cardi B and 21 Savage], and Platinum certifications for ‘Take It to the Head’ featuring Chris Brown, Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj, and Lil Wayne and ‘No New Friends’ featuring Drake, Rick Ross, and Lil Wayne.

    He gathered Gold certifications for the singles ‘Beautiful’ featuring Future & SZA, ‘Let It Go’ featuring Justin Bieber & 21 Savage, ‘Sorry Not Sorry’ featuring Nas, JAY Z, and James Fauntleroy, ‘Welcome to My Hood’ featuring Rick Ross, Plies, Lil Wayne, and T Pain, ‘I Wish You Would’ featuring Kanye West and Rick Ross, and ‘I Wanna Be With You’ featuring Nicki Minaj, Future, and Rick Ross in addition to a Gold plaque for his ‘We The Best Forever’ album.

    As much as this victory lap deserves celebration, Khaled remains as focused on the future as ever. Be on the lookout for more music, news, and surprises soon.

  • Nigerian man extradited to United States for alleged sextortion leading to South Carolina teen’s death

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    A Nigerian man has been extradited to the United States to face charges in connection with an alleged sextortion scheme that authorities say led to the tragic suicide of a South Carolina teenager. The case highlights the growing dangers of online exploitation and underscores the urgent need for increased digital safety measures. According to federal prosecutors, twenty-two-year-old Samuel Ogoshi was transferred from Nigeria to the United States and is now facing charges related to the extortion of seventeen-year-old Jordan DeMay from Michigan. The indictment alleges that Ogoshi and his co-conspirators targeted teenage boys by posing as young women on social media, coercing them into sending explicit images, and then threatening to distribute the content unless a ransom was paid.

    DeMay, a promising high school student, was allegedly one of the victims of this scheme. Investigators say that after being blackmailed, he tragically took his own life in March 2022. His case has drawn widespread attention to the rise of online sextortion, particularly among young males who often feel too ashamed or afraid to seek help. Law enforcement officials have emphasised the importance of awareness and education in preventing similar tragedies.

    “Sextortion is a growing crime that preys on the vulnerabilities of young people”, said a spokesperson from the FBI. “We urge parents, educators, and communities to have open conversations about online safety.”

    Ogoshi faces multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit sexual exploitation of a minor and cyberstalking. If convicted, he could face severe penalties under United States federal law. The extradition was made possible through collaboration between United States and Nigerian authorities, marking a significant step in international law enforcement efforts to combat cybercrimes. This case also serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with online interactions and the devastating consequences that can follow.

    Authorities continue to encourage victims of sextortion to come forward, emphasising that help is available and that they are not alone. If you or someone you know is experiencing online exploitation, resources such as the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) are available for assistance.