GRUNGECAKE

Author: grungecake

  • Ben & Jerry’s founder Jerry Greenfield quits, says company’s activism has been silenced under Unilever

    [media-credit name=”Ben & Jerry’s” link=”https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/why-ben-picked-jerry/240012″ width=2000 align=”center”]Ben & Jerry's founders Ben Cohen (left) and Jerry Greenfield (right)[/media-credit]

    Jerry Greenfield, co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s, has announced his resignation, citing a fundamental breakdown of the brand’s independence and its ability to speak out on social issues. The decision comes after nearly five decades of co-founding and growing a company famously rooted in activism and social justice.

    Greenfield, in a letter posted by his longtime partner Ben Cohen, asserted that Unilever, which acquired Ben & Jerry’s in 2000, has undermined the merger agreement that was supposed to protect Ben & Jerry’s unique social mission. Under that deal, Ben & Jerry’s retained certain rights: A board meant to safeguard its values, and latitude to speak out on human rights, environmental justice, and equity issues. Greenfield contends that over recent years, freedom has been eroded.

    Tensions escalated in 2021 when Ben & Jerry’s declared it would stop selling ice cream in Israeli-occupied territory, a move met with backlash from Unilever. In subsequent years, the brand has also made public statements about the Gaza conflict, even using strong language such as “genocide”, which further strained its relationship with its parent company. Ben & Jerry’s has even filed a lawsuit against Unilever, alleging that Unilever attempted to prevent it from publicly supporting certain causes.

    Greenfield said he could no longer remain “in good conscience” with the company he founded if it no longer stood by its core mission. He called his departure “one of the most painful decisions” of his life.

    Unilever (now reorganising its ice-cream brands into a unit known as The Magnum Ice Cream Company or TMICC) has disputed Greenfield’s characterisation, saying it disagrees with his view and is engaging in dialogue with the co-founders.

    The conflict raises complex questions about what happens when socially driven brand values enter tension with corporate ownership. Greenfield’s exit underscores the challenge of preserving activist identity within a large corporate structure—especially when decisions by higher-ups seem to limit or alter what was promised. It also highlights how merger agreements intended to protect values can be challenged when economic, legal, or reputational risks emerge. The outcome of the ongoing legal actions and investor interest in possibly buying or freeing Ben & Jerry’s remains to be seen.

  • Judge dismisses terrorism charge against Luigi Mangione in UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson murder case

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    A New York judge has dismissed the state terrorism charges against Luigi Mangione, though the broader murder indictment tied to the death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson remains.

    Mangione, 27, faces a pair of prosecutions—one at the state level and one in federal court—and has pleaded not guilty on all counts. The state case included charges of first-degree murder and allegations that the killing was “an act of terrorism”, which carries life in prison under New York state law.

    In hearings held this week, Mangione’s legal team argued that the state and federal cases significantly overlap and that pursuing both constitutes double jeopardy. They also pushed for the dismissal of the terrorism count, contending that the evidence does not support the claim he intended to terrorise a civilian population.

    The court agreed to toss out the terrorism enhancement at the state level, though the murder charge stays. Meanwhile, federal charges—which include interstate stalking with possible death penalty exposure—are progressing independently.

    The decision marks a major shift in the legal landscape for the case. By removing the terrorism label under state law, public prosecutors lose one of their more severe tools. However, the core allegation—murder of Thompson—will still be adjudicated. Observers say the case intensifies debates over how terrorism statutes are applied and the balance between state and federal prosecutions.

  • South African artist Una Rams and J’Something team up for matrimonial track ‘I Do’: Listen

    “I have finally found the one for me”

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    With reports indicating that over 60% of South Africans have never been married, according to the 2022 census, there’s one Vhavenda man who had other plans. Una Rams, the singer who famously worked with fellow South African musician Black Coffee on the GRAMMY Award-winning album ‘Subconsciously’ released in 2021, teamed up with Portuguese vocalist J’Something (from Mi Casa, a South Africa-based trio) for the matrimonial track ‘I Do’. In the song, he anticipates lifting his bride’s veil and celebrating with his loved ones. Granted, it can be difficult to find the right person to settle down with, but if you’re reading this, you probably shouldn’t give up. There might be someone out there ready to match your fly. Don’t let them down… maybe?

  • R&B star Ella Mai shares bold office-themed music video for ‘Tell Her’: Watch

    Ella Mai sings, “I’m on some new shit, switch up the vibe”

    Last week, R&B/Soul star Ella Mai released the official music video to her new bold single ‘Tell Her’—where the GRAMMY Award-winning singer-songwriter requests her significant other keep it honest with his female friend, who he used to date, about how much he loves the ‘Boo’d Up’ singer and adores her only.

    “But if your ex think she can call your phone
    You better tell her you love me, put no one above me”

    Channeling Destiny Child’s 1999 classic record ‘Say My Name’, a popular single about the protagonist’s need to be acknowledged as the main or only woman in his life, Ella Mai sings,

    “Say my name, say my name (tell her you love me)
    Ain’t finna play no games, it’s time to make it plain
    Boy, don’t be acting strange”

    [media-credit name=”Courtesy” width=1600 align=”center”]Ella Mai cover art for 'Tell Her'[/media-credit]

    As she confidently croons over the Mustard beat, the ‘Trip’ songbird says there’s no one else above her, but as history has shown, your partners can embarrass you. With Mai singing about her man entertaining his ex in 2025, something tells me not much has changed since the ‘The Writing’s on the Wall’ era (twenty-six years prior). We’ll have to wait and see how her story unfolds through her next album. Watch the GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter’s office-themed visual—directed by Cole Santiago–below.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e16X3V3Twtk&h=315]

  • 5@5: A morning playlist featuring Jet Vesper and Chris Bullinger

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    A mix of smooth and non-interruptive music shines on this morning playlist featuring Jet Vesper, Chris Bullinger, Loose Buttons, , and . Therefore, we believe these records are the best of the week. Check them out below.

    Jet Vesper – Sonny (Submission)

    Australian artist Jet Vesper has recently released a new track called ‘Sonny’ from his sophomore album entitled ‘Casual Viewing Experience’. It is a funky, seventies nostalgic lead single that highlights a beautiful sunny day, a family affair, flowers in his señorita’s hair, and all-around good vibes. Let the warm track be part of your day’s soundtrack or playlist. It might put you in a ravishing mood.

    Chris Bullinger – Fallin’ Things Let Fall (Submission)

    Turning the volume up to make your soul rattle and making you get out of bed, American artist and poet Chris Bullinger’s high-octane song ‘Fallin’ Things Let Fall’ is what you may hear in a motion picture tied to one of the craziest, bad-ass action scenes. Listen to the single. It is the second single from his forthcoming album called ‘Nowhere To Fall’. Unfortunately, we do not have a release date yet, but there’s an intention to release more singles in late Summer/Autumn.

    Loose Buttons – Just a Boy in a Band (Submission)

    This week, New York-native four-piece band Loose Buttons released their new sad yet electric track, ‘Just a Boy in a Band’, about chasing fame, facing self-doubts and rejection. When explaining what the song is about, the lead singer Eric Nizgretsky shared the following:

    “This song is about coming to grips with the fact that I’m frankly just a boy in a band, holding onto that childish belief that maybe, just maybe, we can trick you into thinking we’re something more. There’s so much going on in the world and then there’s us, fumbling around, trying to make something stick. And yet here we are, pouring everything we have into roughly three-minute songs, like it might actually change something. The best part is getting to do it with my bandmates and best friends, still chasing that feeling – like a kid who just pulled off their first magic trick.”

    Listen to the new bold track below. If you are okay with getting deep into your thoughts in the morning, you may appreciate it.

    Nizgretsky is a first-generation Ukrainian American with roots in Kyiv; based on the information we received, within the past year, they organised a series of benefit shows to help wounded and displaced people in the country. If I were in New York City, I would have loved to attend one of their shows to see them in a live setting because I think it is a matter of time before they cross over, achieving their hopes and dreams.

  • Banksy’s latest mural at the Royal Courts of Justice faces swift removal

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    A striking new artwork by the elusive street artist Banksy has suddenly appeared on the exterior of London’s Royal Courts of Justice, only to be swiftly covered and slated for removal. The mural—revealed in early September 2025—depicts a judge in full wig and gown violently striking a protester who lies prone on the ground, clutching a blood-splattered placard.

    Although Banksy’s signature had not been found on the structure itself, the artist confirmed ownership by posting the mural on his Instagram account—a customary move to validate authenticity. Security personnel rapidly moved to obscure the image with black plastic sheets and metal barriers, whilst surveillance and guards ensured no photographs were taken.

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    Authorities cited the historic and protected status of the Royal Courts of Justice—one of the United Kingdom’s most iconic judicial buildings—as the reason for removal, stating they are “obliged to maintain its original character”. Media reports also noted that police have been notified, as the work has been registered as a case of criminal damage.

    Critics and commentators interpreted the powerful imagery as a comment on the UK government’s crackdown on pro-Palestinian activism, particularly following the arrest of nearly nine-hundred protesters supporting the group Palestine Action, which had recently been proscribed under terrorism legislation. Activist group Defend Our Juries praised the mural as a “powerful depiction of brutality” and a critique of state repression.

    Though its time in the open has been brief, the mural has ignited debate about freedom of expression, the tension between public art and heritage preservation, and the role of street art in political discourse. Whether the piece will be salvaged, archived, or permanently concealed remains uncertain—but its impact has already been made clear.

  • Walmart launches first branded stores in South Africa this year

    The South African government warmly welcomed Walmart’s announcement, stating that this investment reflects strong confidence in the nation’s growth and stability.

    On September 9, 2025, Walmart (NYSE: WMT) officially unveiled plans to open its first branded retail stores in South Africa by the end of the year. This marks a major expansion for the US retail giant, which has until now operated in the country primarily through its subsidiary, Massmart.

    [media-credit name=”Walmart” link=”https://corporate.walmart.com/news/2025/09/09/walmart-announces-stores-in-south-africa” width=1000 align=”center”][/media-credit]

    These new Walmart stores will offer a wide inventory—spanning fresh groceries, household essentials, apparel, technology, and more—whilst integrating locally sourced products. The initiative combines Walmart’s hallmark Every Day Low Prices and global operational standards with South Africa’s rich cultural and entrepreneurial spirit, according to Walmart International President and CEO Kath McLay.

    Building on its April Growth Summit in Johannesburg—which brought together suppliers from twelve African nations—Walmart has already recruited numerous small and medium-sized African vendors. These partnerships highlight the company’s commitment not only to value-driven retail but also to regional empowerment and local economic development.

    Several store locations are already under development, with official opening dates expected in October 2025. Whilst specific sites and further details on employment and community engagements will be disclosed soon, customers can anticipate digital features designed to enhance the shopping experience.

    By entering the South African market under its own brand, Walmart will directly challenge established domestic retailers such as Shoprite, Woolworths, and Pick n Pay—and even e-commerce leaders like Amazon and Takealot.com.

    The South African government warmly welcomed Walmart’s announcement, stating that this investment reflects strong confidence in the nation’s growth and stability. It supports medium-term development goals by promoting supplier development and job creation.

    As the year draws to a close, all eyes will be on the official opening of Walmart’s first branded outlets in South Africa—an expansion with far-reaching implications for retail, local entrepreneurship, and competition.

  • Watch Lady Gaga’s theatrical performances of ‘Abracadabra’ and ‘The Dead Dance’ at the 2025 MTV VMAs

    À la Disco!

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    There’s a reason why the Queen of Pop was the most-nominated artist, receiving twelve times in 2025! Last night at the 2025 MTV VMAs, the network aired a pre-taped performance from Lady Gaga’s sold-out show at the renowned Madison Square Garden in New York City on September 6. In the clip, she sang two songs—one from her new album ‘Mayhem’ (‘Abracabra’) and another (’The Dead Dance’) from Netflix’s soundtrack for its series ‘Wednesday’.

    It’s been a while since we’ve all had the pleasure of watching Lady Gaga’s showmanship, her warm cheer, the camaraderie she shows to other artists by rising to her feet to clap for them—like she did with Ariana Grande for Lola Young—just ahead of collecting the Artist of the Year award, and how she eloquently addresses the public when she speaks. We celebrate Lady Gaga endlessly, as her concern and support for the general public always seems to come first. Check out the playback of the incredible performance.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHs1LCir63Q&h=315]

  • Watch Doja Cat’s sultry performance of ‘Jealous Type’ with Kenny G at the 2025 MTV VMAs

    “Oh, I’m jealous”

    Giving the world an outstanding performance isn’t new for American superstar Doja Cat! Last night to open the 2025 MTV VMAs, the ‘Jealous Type’ singer-rapper teamed up with the legendary Smooth Jazz saxophonist and musician Kenny G to deliver an electric eighties-inspired performance—laced with sultry and exquisite and choreographed moves fitting to the era—for the lead single from her exciting forthcoming album, ‘Vie’. It was the first time she performed it live. Check out the four-minute-plus video below to relive the moment, or watch it for the first time!

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXDCs3D5iDU&h=315]

    It was her third time performing at the VMAs. In 2021, she made her debut singing ‘Been Like This’ and ‘You Right’. Two years later, she performed shortened versions of singles (’Attention’, ‘Paint the Town Red’, and ‘Demons’) from her album ‘Scarlet’. Doja Cat’s album ‘Vie’ comes out on September 26.

    [/media-credit] Vie album cover

  • The Weeknd announces 2026 tour dates

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    Recently, The Weeknd announced forthcoming 2026 tour dates for his current After Hours Til Dawn Stadium, which include shows in Mexico, Brazil, Europe, and the United Kingdom between April and August 26. Later this month, the Canadian superstar will headline the Global Citizen Festival, taking place in Central Park in New York City. According to Pitchfork, Anitta will join him at his shows in Brazil and Mexico, with Playboi Carti opening on the European and the United Kingdom leg of the tour. If you’re around with free time, you ought to witness it live. See dates below.

    2026 After Hours Til Dawn Stadium:

    09-27 New York, NY – Global Citizen Festival
    04-20 Mexico City, MX – Estadio GNP Seguros *
    04-21 Mexico City, MX – Estadio GNP Seguros *
    04-26 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Estádio Nilton Santos *
    04-30 São Paulo, Brazil – Estádio MorumBIS *
    05-01 São Paulo, Brazil – Estádio MorumBIS *
    07-10 Paris, France – Stade de France ^
    07-17 Amsterdam, Netherlands – Johan Cruijff ArenA ^
    07-21 Nice, France – Allianz Riviera ^
    07-24 Milan, Italy – San Siro Stadium ^
    07-30 Frankfurt, Germany – Deutsche Bank Park ^
    08-04 Warsaw, Poland – PGE Narodowy ^
    08-08 Stockholm, Sweden – Strawberry Arena ^
    08-14 London, England – Wembley Stadium ^
    08-15 London, England – Wembley Stadium ^
    08-22 Dublin, Ireland – Croke Park ^
    08-28 Madrid, Spain – Riyadh Air Metropolitano ^
    08-29 Madrid, Spain – Riyadh Air Metropolitano ^

    * with Anitta
    ^ with Playboi Carti