GRUNGECAKE

Category: Trending

  • Andra Day, ex-manager locked in high-stakes legal war over royalties

    [media-credit name=”Warner Records” link=”http://www.warnerbrosrecords.com/artists” width=1392 align=”center”]Andra Day[/media-credit]

    GRAMMY Award-winning performer Andra Day and her former manager, Jeffrey Evans, are now suing each other for what looks like six-figure (and possibly million-dollar) sums, centered on alleged missing royalties, contract breaches, and accounting disputes.

    In court documents obtained by TMZ, Day accuses Evans and his companies—Buskin LLC and BassLine Management—of “misappropriating her funds” and treating her career finances as their own. Included in her claims: $600,000 withheld from her Warner Bros debut album funds in 2015; failure to segregate her publishing income into a separate account; and extravagant spending covered by her resources.

    This alleged mismanagement, she says, spans a fourteen-year relationship: She signed with Evans in 2011 (introduced via Stevie Wonder’s wife) and only formally terminated the agreement in March 2025.

    On terminating the deal, Day filed notice she intended to sue for breach of contract and is seeking roughly $1,599,903.98.

    Evans, for his part, claims he acted above board. In his filing, he says his companies provided annual financial statements and have already paid Day more than required under the contract. He counters that he is owed around $850,000.

    This legal duel pits two narratives: One of a rising artist allegedly deprived of revenue she’s due, and another of a manager asserting his own right to compensation. Neither side seems ready to back down. Stay tuned—this could get messy (and public).


  • Watch Houston rapper Monaleo’s cookout-themed video for ‘Sexy Soulaan’

    Monaleo isn’t just rapping over beats; she’s rewriting the guest list.

    About a week back, Houston rapper Monaleowho married longtime partner and fellow emcee Stunna 4 Vegas last month—dropped the official video for her latest single, ‘Sexy Soulaan’. It’s the boldest record of her career, a cut that doesn’t just take up space but redraws the borders of who’s allowed in the room.

    But that’s the surface heat. What gives ‘Sexy Soulaan’ its real charge—and what might leave non-Black listeners squirming in their seats—are the harder truths braided through her verses. These aren’t tidy punchlines for the algorithm; they’re cultural flare guns, a refusal to dilute rage, pride, or sexuality to fit anyone’s comfort zone.

    The visual looks like a Summer cookout: Smoke rising from the grill, a circle of women moving like they own the block. But the vibe is sharper than it seems. For Monaleo, who first made her mark with ‘We Not Humping’, this isn’t a party. It’s a statement of ownership.

    She sets the tone early: “I ain’t beefing with bitches/They’re throwing salt on me ‘cause they can’t get in the room.” That could have been the headline, a tidy clapback at rivals. But it’s not the line that lingers. What makes ‘Sexy Soulaan’ hit different—and what might rattle non-Black listeners—are the bars that refuse to dilute.

    “All the non-Blacks to the back”, she demands, then raises the stakes: “I ain’t shaking white hands, I watch them dig in they hole.” The dismissal is blunt, but it’s also history speaking. She remembers the exclusions, the erasures, and she refuses to play nice.

    She presses harder, enforcing cultural boundaries that outsiders often test: “If you ain’t Black, then you can’t say ‘nigga’, I enforce that.” Even the cookout—a metaphor that’s been meme-ified beyond recognition—gets pulled back into sharper focus.

    “You’re not invited to the cook out/But you can watch from the middle of the streets, be the look out”, she raps, before landing the gut punch: “‘Cause I remember we was pushed out/So if you can’t say the word, then your ass getting put out.”

    The strength of ‘Sexy Soulaan’ lies in this refusal to soothe. Monaleo isn’t angling for crossover approval or playlist safety. She’s speaking to her people, her culture, and her history, daring everyone else to keep up. The production pounds, her delivery cuts, and the visuals double down: Joy and defiance mingling in the open air, women hyping each other in ways rarely centred in mainstream Rap imagery.

    In a moment where women in Hip-Hop are often pushed toward marketable archetypes—the party girl, the sex symbol, the crossover darling–Monaleo isn’t budging. ‘Sexy Soulaan’ is radical precisely because it doesn’t care about palatability. It’s dauntless, not for its shock value, but for its honesty.

    Monaleo isn’t just rapping over beats; She’s rewriting the guest list.

    Monaleo has always had a knack for cutting through noise with scalpel-sharp honesty. Here, though, she’s louder, riskier, and utterly uninterested in compromise. ‘Sexy Soulaan’ doesn’t just plant a flag—it waves it in your face and dares you to look away.

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

    ‘Sexy Soulaan’ sits at #30 on YouTube’s Trending Chart.


  • Maxwell House coffee rebrands for first time in 133 years

    Maxwell House, the iconic coffee brand that has been a staple in American households for over 130 years, is undergoing a historic change. For the first time in its long history, the company is changing its name. This shift marks a significant moment for the beloved brand, which has been associated with coffee for generations.

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    The decision to rebrand is part of a larger strategy to modernise the company and appeal to younger, more diverse consumers. In a statement, Maxwell House explained that the new name will better reflect the company’s evolving identity whilst still honouring its rich legacy. The brand has long been known for its slogan “Good to the Last Drop”, a phrase that resonated with coffee lovers for decades, cementing Maxwell House as a trusted, go-to coffee.

    The rebranding also coincides with an increasing interest in specialty coffees and new brewing methods. Whilst Maxwell House has historically dominated the mass-market coffee segment, the rise of artisanal coffee, sustainability concerns, and changing consumer tastes have prompted the brand to rethink its identity. The name change is seen as a way to refresh the brand, ensuring it remains relevant in a competitive coffee market.

    The specifics of the new name have yet to be fully disclosed, but it’s clear that Maxwell House is aiming to capture the attention of today’s coffee enthusiasts. As part of the relaunch, the company is also planning updates to its packaging and product offerings to align with the evolving preferences of coffee drinkers.

    This bold move represents a significant shift for a brand that has stood the test of time. Whether the name change will resonate with loyal fans or alienate them remains to be seen, but it’s clear that Maxwell House is ready to embrace the future.


  • Apple removes ICE-tracking app after US government pressure

    [media-credit name=”Reuters” link=”https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/society-equity/apple-removes-ice-tracking-apps-after-pressure-by-trump-administration-2025-10-03″ width=1536 align=”center”][/media-credit]

    In early October 2025, Apple quietly removed ICEBlock—an iOS app that allowed users to crowdsource sightings of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents—from its App Store, citing “safety risks” flagged by law enforcement. The takedown came after direct pressure from the US Department of Justice and Attorney General Pamela Bondi, who argued that the app posed a danger to agents performing their duties.

    Launched in April by developer Joshua Aaron, ICEBlock functioned like a reverse radar: Users could anonymously alert others within a five-mile radius when ICE officers appeared in public spaces. Reports would disappear after four hours to limit persistent tracking.

    Within months, it had amassed over a million users and become a flashpoint in the broader debate surrounding immigration enforcement, civil liberties, and technological surveillance.

    Apple says it acted after receiving law enforcement information about the risks associated with ICEBlock’s design and usage. Critics counter that the removal amounts to censorship under political duress, noting that other apps—like Waze or Google Maps—allow users to flag police or speed traps but remain untouched. Legal experts note that the act of observing or reporting government agents in public is often shielded under the First Amendment, so long as no interference occurs.

    Supporters of ICEBlock view it as a civic tool: A way for communities to respond to surprise immigration raids, monitor enforcement patterns, and protect vulnerable populations.

    Opponents argue it could escalate risk, incite violence, or facilitate obstruction. The debate raises a tougher question: When tech becomes a medium for political resistance, how should platforms navigate state pressure, civil liberties, and safety claims?


  • Daniel Ek steps down as Spotify CEO, moves to Executive Chairman Role

    [media-credit name=”Noam Galai/Getty Images for Spotify” link=”https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/spotify-founder-ceo-daniel-ek-stepping-down/497767″ width=1000 align=”center”][/media-credit]

    After nearly two decades at the helm of Spotify, co-founder Daniel Ek is stepping away from the CEO role and shifting into Executive Chairman starting January 1. But before you picture him disappearing, he’s been clear:

    “To be clear, I’m not leaving.”

    Ek’s intention is to hand more of the day-to-day operational reins to two long-time lieutenants: Alex Norström (co-President & Chief Business Officer) and Gustav Söderström (co-President & Chief Product & Technology Officer). They’ll become co-CEOs and report to Ek, also joining Spotify’s board.

    Spotify says this restructure isn’t a sudden pivot but a formalisation of how things have already been functioning: Over recent years, Ek had delegated much of the strategic and operational leadership to Norström and Söderström. His new role will focus on capital allocation, long-term strategy, and guiding the senior leadership team.

    This shift comes at a pivotal moment. Spotify now serves over 700 million users, up from about 678 million earlier this year. Financially, the company had its first full year of profitability in 2024, reporting €1.14 billion in net income, though it swung back to a loss of ~€86 million in Q2 of 2025, citing rising personnel and advertising costs.

    Ek himself holds about 6.2 % of Spotify, and most of his net worth is tied to that stake. The co-CEO structure is rare among large public companies—under 5 % employ it.

    What to watch: How smoothly the transition plays out, whether Spotify’s momentum holds, and how the dynamic between the new co-CEOs and Ek evolves. A founding CEO’s move to a more strategic role is less about stepping back and more about scaling his influence differently.


  • Bad Bunny set to headline Super Bowl LX Halftime show in Santa Clara

    Bad Bunny
    [/media-credit] Bad Bunny

    Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny has officially been tapped to headline the Super Bowl LX halftime show, which will take place in Santa Clara in February 2026. The announcement was made during a Sunday Night Football game, and it comes as no surprise to many, given his status and the NFL’s interest in further expanding its cultural reach.

    The choice seems strategic. Bad Bunny is not only one of the most popular global artists right now, but he also has a massive following in Latin America and among Spanish‐speaking audiences in the United States—demographics the NFL has long been courting. Also, because he is currently on tour, he’s performance‐ready for a massive, high‐pressure show like this.

    To put this in context: Last year’s halftime headliner was Kendrick Lamar, and before that, the NFL had brought in icons across genres—Usher, Rihanna, Dr Dre & co—to try to deliver both spectacle and broad appeal.


    What to watch/What it might mean

  • Cultural signal: Bad Bunny’s presence reinforces the NFL’s ongoing pivot toward more diverse, global audiences
  • Performance expectations: The production will need to match his style—he’s known for energy and strong visuals
  • Commercial impact: Expect spikes in streaming, merch, ticket demand (even for those not going, just for the spectacle)

  • Ariana Grande fires back at Trump supporters in fiery Instagram post

    Ariana Grande
    [/media-credit] Ariana Grande

    Pop superstar Ariana Grande recently ignited controversy with a pointed message aimed at supporters of President Donald Trump. In a post shared on her Instagram Story, Grande used strong language to challenge what she sees as hypocrisy and misconduct among the President’s backers.

    Ariana Grande
    [/media-credit] Ariana Grande

    Whilst the full text of the post was later removed or made private, screenshots and media coverage indicate she used the word “f**kery” to describe behaviours she attributed to Trump supporters. The message appeared to criticise their actions, aligning with Grande’s ongoing pattern of outspoken political commentary.

    Though Grande has made political statements in the past, this latest post drew particular attention for its blunt tone and direct targeting of a vocal political base. Over recent years, she has shared her views on issues like transgender rights, immigration, and war powers. In June 2025, for instance, she reposted a call from Rep Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez to impeach Trump following his decision to bomb Iran without congressional approval.

    Grande’s activism has also made her a frequent target of criticism. Conservative commentators have challenged her public positions, sometimes shifting their focus to her appearance or credentials rather than her message.

    But despite the backlash, she continues to use her platform to voice her beliefs—and to spark conversation.

    Whether the Instagram post was a spontaneous eruption of frustration or a calculated move, it reinforces a clear truth: Ariana Grande is far from a neutral observer when it comes to politics, and she isn’t shying away from conflict. Her boldness underscores both her willingness to speak out and the cultural tensions that arise when celebrity and activism intersect.


  • Mayor Eric Adams quits re-election, but name stays on November ballot

    [media-credit name=”Alejandra Villa Loarca / Newsday via Getty Images” link=”https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/eric-adams-drops-out-mayoral-race-new-york-city-rcna229436″ width=1000 align=”center”][/media-credit]

    New York City Mayor Eric Adams unexpectedly announced on Sunday that he is abandoning his campaign for a second term—a dramatic turn just five weeks before Election Day. But despite the withdrawal, his name will remain on the ballot for the November general election, since the deadline to drop a candidacy has already passed.

    In a video posted to social media, Adams cited “constant media speculation” and the city’s Campaign Finance Board decision to withhold public matching funds as key reasons for his exit.

    He acknowledged the achievements of his term—reductions in violent crime, housing efforts, and post-pandemic economic recovery—but said he could no longer sustain a viable campaign. Adams had already switched course earlier in the year: After declining to compete in the Democratic primary, he chose to run as an independent under the “Safe & Affordable” ballot line.

    Yet polling showed him trailing well behind front-runners, and fundraising challenges had been mounting. With Adams out of the active race, the contest in November now tilts more sharply toward Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee, and Andrew Cuomo, running independently.

    Whilst Adams will not campaign further, analysts note his residual presence (via name on the ballot) might still complicate vote distributions in a tight race.

    As the city braces for a redefined mayoral showdown, Adams framed his departure as a reluctant but necessary step, saying: “I cannot continue my reelection campaign.”


  • Nicki Minaj confirms new album dropping March 2026, teases fresh era for fans

    Nicki Minaj
    [/media-credit] Nicki Minaj

    Nicki Minaj has officially announced a release date for her sixth studio album: It’s slated to drop in March 2026. Whilst she hasn’t revealed the back‑story, features, or full title yet, fans are speculating that this could be the long‑anticipated third chapter of her ‘Pink Friday’ series—’Pink Friday 3’.

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    This new album represents a different direction than what she did with ‘Pink Friday 2’. Rather than putting out a deluxe version of that project, she confirmed that she wanted a completely fresh album.

    She’s promised “new songs”—including previously teased tracks like ‘Mamita’ and a song she refers to as the “anxiety” song—will still factor into whatever comes next.

    Her last full album, ‘Pink Friday 2’, was loaded with twenty-two tracks and big collaborations (Drake, Lil Wayne, Future, Lil Uzi Vert, Skillibeng, etc), plus deluxe edition songs like ‘Beep Beep’ (featuring 50 Cent) and ‘Love Me Enough’ (with Monica and Keyshia Cole). The project also came with a massive world tour—79 shows, which grossed over $108.8 million.

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    Nicki ended her most recent tour with a major show in Elmont, New York, featuring guests such as Sexyy Red and 50 Cent. Around that time, she also dismissed rumours of taking a long break, telling fans she “ain’t going no mthfkn where.”

    Overall, this announcement marks the start of what looks to be an exciting, new era for Nicki Minaj—fans will be watching very closely for pre‑release singles, collaborations, and whether this truly is ‘PF3’.


  • Nas and Resorts World receive unanimous vote for proposed casino in Queens

    [media-credit name=”Instagram” link=”https://www.instagram.com/p/CxOS2PwvM1x/?img_index=1″ width=1440 align=”center”][/media-credit]

    On September 25, 2025, Nas and Resorts World NYC cleared a major milestone in their casino expansion efforts in Queens, winning unanimous approval from the Community Advisory Board for their $5.5 billion proposal. The vote was 6-0 in favour, a signal that the project has strong support among local stakeholders.

    The proposal aims to transform the existing racino at Aqueduct—which currently offers electronic gaming machines—into a full-integrated resort featuring live table games. Among the planned amenities: A 7,000-seat concert and entertainment venue, some 30 food and beverage outlets, a sports and media complex dubbed “The Jet Center” by NBA champion Kenny “The Jet” Smith, additional hotel rooms, and other public‐infrastructure enhancements.

    The economic figures are ambitious: the developers say it could create roughly 24,000 new jobs, ranging from construction to ongoing operations, and generate at least $1 billion in incremental revenue for New York State within the first year of full operation. If all goes according to plan, parts of the facility are expected to begin opening by mid-2026.

    Still, the approval of the Community Advisory Board is not the final step. Next, the proposal must be reviewed by the Gaming Facility Location Board before a full commercial casino license can be granted.

    The vote also drew media attention for its timing and context. A competing Times Square casino bid backed by JAY Z was recently rejected; Queens Borough President Donovan Richards took the moment to quip, “Sorry Jay-Z. We win again.”

    Overall, this is a strong win for the Nas-Resorts World partnership: The unanimous vote suggests broad local buy-in, and the scale of the proposal places it among the largest private development efforts under consideration in New York.