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  • Zara Larsson Drops New Track ‘Crush’

    Get ready to add another track to your playlist! Swedish pop sensation Zara Larsson has just dropped her brand new song, ‘Crush,’ and it’s giving us all the dancefloor vibes. This exciting release comes as a special preview from her upcoming album, ‘Midnight Sun,’ which is set to hit shelves on September 26th.

    A Taste of ‘Midnight Sun’

    Produced by the talented Zhone and Margo XS, ‘Crush’ is a pulsating pop anthem that perfectly captures the feeling of an unrequited love – a crush that can never quite blossom into something more. It’s a relatable theme that Zara masterfully conveys through her signature vocals.

    This new single follows the viral success of the ‘Midnight Sun’ title track, which took TikTok by storm. If that track got you moving, you’re definitely going to want to check out ‘Crush’!

    Listen to ‘Crush’ Now!

    You can stream Zara Larsson’s latest offering, ‘Crush,’ right now! It’s a fantastic glimpse into what we can expect from the full ‘Midnight Sun’ album. We’re already huge fans!

    What do you think of Zara Larsson’s new song ‘Crush’? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Newsom Warns Trump’s 2028 Ambitions: A Third Term Threat?

    Have you ever felt like something big is brewing just under the surface? Well, California Governor Gavin Newsom is urging everyone to pay attention, sounding a serious alarm about what he believes could be Donald Trump’s plan to secure a presidential term beyond the constitutionally allowed two. He’s not just speculating; he’s calling on Americans to “wake up” to a potential power grab that extends past 2028.

    The “Wake Up, America” Message

    Newsom recently took to Instagram with a direct and urgent plea to the nation. He’s accusing the former president of being a “lawless” leader, suggesting that Trump is already breaking political norms even as he vies for a return to the White House in the upcoming election.

    What makes Newsom’s warning particularly striking is his claim that it’s not just guesswork. He states he personally received a “Trump 2028” campaign ad in the mail, sent by one of Trump’s prominent supporters. This is happening despite the fact that the U.S. Constitution clearly limits presidents to two terms in office.

    Accusations of Corruption and Damage

    Newsom didn’t hold back, labeling Trump as “the most corrupt president in history.” He further alleged that Trump favors crony capitalism over free enterprise and has inflicted significant economic and political damage on the country. “The rules do not apply to him,” Newsom stated emphatically, urging voters to consider these risks before heading to the polls.

    While the idea of a president serving a third term would undoubtedly face massive legal and constitutional challenges, Newsom’s strong words are part of a larger narrative within the Democratic party. This narrative aims to portray Trump as a fundamental threat to American democracy itself.

    What Does This Mean for the Election?

    It’s a bold statement from Governor Newsom, highlighting the intense political climate and the deep divisions in the country. His message is a clear call for voters to be aware of what he perceives as potential long-term implications of the upcoming election, extending far beyond the immediate four-year term.

    What are your thoughts on Gavin Newsom’s warning about Donald Trump’s potential 2028 ambitions? Share your perspective in the comments below!

  • Trump Silent on Legacy Admissions Amid Fairness Push

    As President Donald Trump champions a new era of fairness in college admissions, emphasizing merit and test scores while opposing race-based considerations, critics are questioning his silence on legacy admissions. This practice, which grants preferential treatment to children of alumni and donors, is seen by many as a significant instance of a “rigged” system that Trump frequently denounces.

    The Paradox of Trump’s Admissions Stance

    Trump has actively sought to remove any consideration of race in college admissions, reinforcing the Supreme Court’s 2023 decision against affirmative action. His administration has pursued settlements with universities like Brown and Columbia to ensure data sharing on admissions practices and has called on colleges nationwide to prove they do not consider race. However, he has conspicuously avoided addressing legacy preferences, a policy that provides an advantage based on family ties and wealth.

    Richard Kahlenberg, a researcher at the Progressive Policy Institute, described legacy preferences as a “more flagrant way in which the system is rigged,” highlighting the open practice of “hereditary privilege.” While some Republicans, like Senator Todd Young, applaud the administration’s focus on eliminating racial considerations, they also advocate for ending all preferences based on “arbitrary circumstances of ancestry.”

    Legacy Admissions Under Scrutiny

    Often referred to as “affirmative action for the rich,” legacy admissions continue to be a common practice at selective colleges, despite growing bipartisan opposition. States like Virginia, Colorado, and California have enacted measures to ban legacy preferences at public institutions. According to 2023 disclosures, approximately 500 universities consider legacy status, including over half of the nation’s 100 most selective schools. Stanford University, for instance, opted to forgo state financial aid rather than end its legacy admissions policy.

    Trump’s recent executive actions require universities to provide more data on applicants and accepted students, aiming to ensure compliance with the Supreme Court’s ruling and promote “merit-based” admissions. However, these actions, along with Justice Department memos clarifying illegal discrimination, do not mention legacy admissions. Lawyers for Civil Rights has filed a complaint alleging that Harvard’s use of donor and alumni preferences constitutes illegal racial discrimination, disproportionately benefiting white students.

    Differing Views on Preferences and Merit

    Universities often defend legacy admissions by citing their role in building community and encouraging donations. Some argue that as campuses diversify, these preferences increasingly benefit nonwhite students. President Biden has also urged colleges to reconsider legacy preferences, suggesting they expand privilege rather than opportunity. Georgetown University, after reviewing its policy, decided to retain legacy preferences, noting a similar demographic makeup among legacy applicants compared to the general applicant pool.

    Public opinion generally views legacy and donor preferences unfavorably, with few Americans believing they should play a significant role in admissions. While universities must disclose whether they consider legacy status, the extent to which it influences admissions decisions remains largely opaque. Trump’s emphasis on meritocracy in admissions, critics argue, could inadvertently send a message that minority students are presumed less capable, potentially intimidating colleges into limiting diversity to avoid government scrutiny.

    What are your thoughts on legacy admissions in college? Should they be abolished? Share your views in the comments below!

  • Carlos Boozer on ‘King’s Court’: Love, Lists & Brotherhood

    From the basketball court to the reality TV spotlight, two-time NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer is embarking on a new journey to find love on Bravo’s ‘King’s Court.’ He’s opening up to BOSSIP about the experience, sharing his thoughts on vulnerability, his connection with contestant Janaye, and the unique brotherhood he’s formed with co-stars Tyson Beckford and Thaddeus ‘Titus O’Neil’ Bullard.

    Trading the Hardwood for Vulnerability

    Boozer admits that putting his love life on display for the world was a significant adjustment. “I think, honestly, that was the part I had the toughest part with,” he told BOSSIP. “You’re getting to know somebody or getting to know people on camera and you gotta be vulnerable and let your guard down.” After two previous marriages and divorces, Boozer was determined to approach this experience differently, aiming to be vulnerable earlier than he normally would, which he found to be incredibly rewarding.

    Early on, Boozer found himself drawn to Janaye, a 32-year-old content creator from Tampa. Their instant chemistry has captivated viewers, and Boozer shared that he was immediately struck by her, particularly her “hot pink dress.” He was impressed not only by her physical beauty but also by her depth, noting, “she just she’s deeper than just her physicality, obviously she’s she’s well-rounded.”

    Navigating Love Triangles and Brotherhood

    The show recently introduced Jennifer, a 37-year-old architect from Miami, who was dubbed a “perfect match” for Boozer. While Jennifer also caught the attention of Tyson Beckford, Boozer felt a connection due to shared ties to Seattle, where his ex-wife lives. This situation created some tension, particularly with Janaye, but Boozer felt compelled to “explore a little bit.”

    The dynamics on ‘King’s Court’ have been further complicated by Tyson Beckford’s infamous dating list, where contestants scheduled appointments for dates with him. Boozer, who has been friends with Beckford for 15 years, offered some perspective, explaining that Tyson is accustomed to women pursuing him, and the women on the show are used to men chasing them, creating a different dynamic. He acknowledged the ladies’ hesitation with the list, noting, “They’re used to having men chase them, right? This is a different dynamic.”

    A Bond Beyond the Competition

    Beyond the competition, Boozer expressed immense love and respect for his fellow kings, Beckford and WWE legend Thaddeus ‘Titus O’Neil’ Bullard. He shared that the show strengthened his friendship with Tyson and allowed him to get to know Bullard, whom he calls an “inspiration.” The three men have formed a genuine bond, holding each other accountable as fathers, friends, and Black men. “We kind of hold each other accountable on that tip and just check in a week,” Boozer said. “Me and Tyson got even closer because of this show. And so for me, it was an honor to do this project and film this show with two other awesome, awesome men.”

    Who do you think Carlos Boozer will choose as his queen? Keep watching ‘King’s Court’ Sundays at 9/8c on Bravo and streaming the next day on Peacock, and share your predictions in the comments below!

  • States Eye Redistricting Amid Texas’s Trump-Backed Plan

    Texas’s recent decision to redraw its congressional maps mid-decade, aiming to secure five additional Republican seats in the U.S. House, has ignited a firestorm across the nation. This partisan redistricting effort, openly supported by President Donald Trump to bolster Republican control in the 2026 elections, is prompting calls for similar actions in statehouses controlled by both parties. While the practice of gerrymandering is often done more discreetly, Trump’s explicit endorsement has brought it into the open.

    Texas Democrats’ Protest and California’s Response

    In Texas, Democratic lawmakers staged a protest by leaving the state to disrupt a special session on redistricting. Although they appear poised to end their standoff after nearly two weeks, the Republican majority adjourned their session. Governor Greg Abbott has indicated he will continue calling special sessions until the maps are passed. State Representative Jon Rosenthal stated their protest aimed to raise awareness, acknowledging that while the maps might still pass, they are committed to “awakening America.”

    In a direct response to Texas’s actions, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced plans to redraw congressional maps, aiming to add five Democratic seats to the U.S. House. These proposed maps, expected soon, are intended to counterbalance the Republican gains sought by Texas and Trump. Newsom has been vocal in his opposition, warning Trump that he was “playing with fire.”

    Other States Weighing Redistricting

    Missouri’s Republican leadership is preparing for a special session on congressional redistricting, partly influenced by Trump’s call and California’s retaliatory threats. Documents show the state Senate has already incurred costs for redistricting software and training. While Governor Mike Kehoe hasn’t officially announced a session, House Majority Leader Alex Riley indicated it’s “pretty likely” and that discussions have occurred with White House staff. Republicans in Missouri, who already hold six of the state’s eight congressional seats, may target a Democratic-held district.

    New York Democrats have introduced legislation to allow mid-decade redistricting, similar to California’s independent commission system, though any changes would require constitutional amendments and voter approval, likely not impacting elections until 2028. Wisconsin Democrats are pursuing a judicial route, filing lawsuits after the state Supreme Court declined to hear challenges directly. Maryland Democrats plan to introduce legislation to trigger redistricting if other states proceed, and Florida’s governor has signaled support for redistricting efforts.

    States like Ohio are legally required to redraw maps before the 2026 midterms. Indiana’s governor has discussed redistricting with Vice President JD Vance, though no commitments have been made. Kansas Republicans have not ruled out redistricting, potentially impacting the state’s sole Democratic House representative.

    What are your thoughts on states redrawing congressional maps mid-decade? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • Disturbing Footage Shows Rapper T-Hood Assaulting Girlfriend

    Disturbing new footage has surfaced in connection with the death investigation of rapper T-Hood, who was fatally shot on August 8th. The video, obtained by TMZ Hip Hop, reportedly shows the late rapper violently assaulting his girlfriend, Kelsie Frost, inside their Gwinnett County, Georgia residence earlier this year. This footage comes as Kelsie’s brother, Ky Lasheed Frost, has been named the sole suspect in T-Hood’s death.

    Graphic Video Shows Violent Altercation

    The video depicts Kelsie Frost lying down while T-Hood paces around the bedroom. After approximately 25 seconds, T-Hood stands over Kelsie and aggressively attacks her, appearing to attempt to choke her. Sources close to the Frost family claim this was not an isolated incident and that they have photos of Kelsie showing bruises and scratches from a previous alleged attack by T-Hood in November 2024. Another surveillance video shared by a friend of Kelsie’s reportedly shows a similar instance of T-Hood pouncing on his girlfriend.

    The Gwinnett County Police Department has identified Ky Frost as their primary suspect in T-Hood’s killing, which they are investigating as a ‘domestic disturbance.’ Reports suggest Ky, whose parents are ‘Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta’ stars Kirk and Rasheeda Frost, heard a violent outburst from his sister’s apartment on the night of the shooting and went to intervene. The fatal shot was allegedly fired during the ensuing altercation.

    Family Accusations and Denials

    Following T-Hood’s death, his family, including his mother, sisters Maysia Bandy and Jayda Bandy, and his daughter’s mother, Ebony Jai, have publicly accused Kelsie Frost of foul play, alleging she set the rapper up. These claims were denied by Kelsie on social media, where she asserted her love for T-Hood. The family also claims Kelsie called her brothers, Ky and Kirk Frost Jr., after an alleged domestic dispute, and accuses Ky of being the shooter.

    T-Hood’s sister, Jayda, has questioned the timing and context of the released abuse videos, urging for the dates and times to be shown and contrasting them with the details of the shooting. She stated, “Don’t show me him in a coat when we in 98 degree weather!!!! Dang sht looks ugly af!! I do not condone DV nor did I know about any of that sht but Why u ain’t call the police for your friend if you was so concerned?” T-Hood’s other sister, Maysia, echoed similar sentiments, questioning the relevance of older videos if no charges were filed at the time.

    Gwinnett County Police are reportedly reviewing surveillance footage from the apartment complex on the night of the shooting and are considering the possibility of self-defense. No arrests have been made in connection with Ky Frost at this time. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233.

    What are your thoughts on the released footage and the ongoing investigation? Share your views in the comments below.

  • Buffalo Gunman’s Lawyers Argue Grand Jury Was Too White

    Attorneys for Payton Gendron, the white supremacist convicted in the 2022 Buffalo supermarket attack that killed 10 Black individuals, are making a controversial argument: his federal indictment should be thrown out because the grand jury that indicted him allegedly lacked sufficient minority representation. The defense claims this violates Gendron’s constitutional right to a jury drawn from a true cross-section of the community.

    The Defense’s Argument on Jury Composition

    During a recent hearing, Gendron’s lawyers argued that Black and Hispanic individuals, as well as men, are systematically underrepresented in the jury selection pools for the Buffalo area. They contend that the grand jury panel, which indicted Gendron on federal hate crime and weapons charges, did not adequately reflect the community’s diversity. The defense specifically pointed to a lack of data preservation by the vendor responsible for compiling juror lists, making it difficult to ascertain the exact selection process.

    U.S. District Judge Lawrence Vilardo questioned the defense’s argument, noting the apparent irony of a defendant accused of a racially motivated hate crime raising concerns about the racial makeup of the grand jury. He pondered whether any disparities might be accidental rather than the result of systemic exclusion. The prosecution countered that even if there were minor disparities, it would constitute a ‘technical violation’ and not grounds for dismissing the indictment, citing federal law that doesn’t guarantee ‘perfect representation.’

    Context of the Buffalo Shooting and Legal Proceedings

    The horrific 2022 shooting at a Tops supermarket targeted Black shoppers due to the neighborhood’s predominantly Black population. The victims ranged in age from 32 to 86, with three others wounded. Gendron is already serving a life sentence without parole after pleading guilty to state charges, including murder. A federal trial is anticipated next year, with the Justice Department seeking the death penalty if he is convicted on federal counts.

    Victims’ relatives’ attorney John Elmore commented on the defense’s strategy, suggesting it’s a tactic to keep Gendron alive. He acknowledged the persistent problem of minority underrepresentation in jury pools across the court system, noting the irony that this issue is being highlighted in a case involving a racially motivated crime. Gendron’s attorneys have also filed a separate motion arguing he should be exempt from the death penalty due to his age (18 at the time of the shooting) and ongoing brain development.

    What are your thoughts on the defense’s argument regarding the grand jury’s composition? Share your perspective in the comments below.

  • Jermaine Dupri’s Docuseries Celebrates Atlanta’s Magic City

    Jermaine Dupri is shining a spotlight on a cornerstone of Atlanta’s cultural landscape with his new Starz docuseries, ‘Magic City: An American Fantasy.’ More than just a look at a legendary strip club, Dupri aims to showcase the deep family ties, rich history, and significant influence of Magic City on hip-hop and Atlanta’s entertainment scene, ensuring the city’s culture finally gets the recognition it deserves.

    From Conversation to Cultural Landmark

    The idea for the documentary sparked during a conversation between Dupri, his father, and author Cole Brown. What began as a discussion about Atlanta’s musical impact soon evolved, with many stories circling back to the iconic Magic City club. Brown’s curiosity about the club’s significance to Dupri and Atlanta’s entertainment scene led to the realization that a documentary was essential.

    Dupri emphasizes that Magic City is more than just a strip club; it’s a cultural landmark deeply rooted in family, with Michael ‘Mr. Magic’ Barney’s family at its helm. He admires how the club operates with a sense of ownership and unity, a quality he envies. For those unfamiliar with the venue, Dupri highlights its role as a crucial meeting place and networking hub, where music, sports, and street culture intersect, often serving as a testing ground for new hip-hop hits.

    Giving Atlanta Its Cultural Flowers

    Dupri expresses frustration with how Atlanta’s culture is often perceived compared to cities like New York or Los Angeles. He points out that while violent narratives from other cities are readily accepted as culture, Atlanta’s contributions, even those from nightlife institutions like Magic City, are sometimes dismissed or judged more harshly. He feels a responsibility to champion his city’s unique cultural identity.

    While films like ‘ATL’ offered a glimpse into certain aspects of Atlanta’s youth culture, Dupri believes ‘Magic City’ tells another vital truth – the ‘grown-folks’ side of the culture. He clarifies that it’s not about violence but about the nightlife, the music industry hustle, and the deals made in a unique environment. He hopes the docuseries encourages audiences to look past the strip club label and recognize its decades-long standing as a pillar of Atlanta’s entertainment landscape.

    A Comprehensive Look at Magic City

    The five-part docuseries delves into various facets of Magic City, offering a full picture of the magic behind the name. It explores the entertainment, the behind-the-scenes stories of the dancers, and the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives within its walls. By streaming ‘Magic City: An American Fantasy’ on Starz, Dupri aims to ensure that Atlanta’s legacy in hip-hop storytelling is complete, acknowledging the place where its soundtrack was honed and history was made.

    What are your thoughts on Jermaine Dupri’s docuseries and its portrayal of Atlanta’s culture? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • Makini Regal Martin’s ‘Zuri Rose’ Celebrates Black Girl Magic

    For Brooklyn mompreneur Makini Regal Martin, ‘The Wonderful World of Zuri Rose’ is more than just a children’s book; it’s a heartfelt tribute to her daughter, Zuri Rose, and a powerful statement for every child who deserves to see themselves reflected in the stories they cherish. Martin noticed a significant gap on bookstore shelves when searching for books for her daughter, realizing the lack of representation for young Black girls.

    From a Need to a Beautiful Brand

    Driven by this observation, Martin channeled her creative energy and design expertise into bringing ‘The Wonderful World of Zuri Rose’ to life through her publishing company, BloomHaus Press. The book is an A-to-Z adventure featuring a Brooklyn girl with a vivid imagination and a deep love for flowers. Martin’s dedication to making the book a memorable experience is evident, especially when she sees the joy on young girls’ faces during unboxing videos, seeing themselves in the character.

    Martin’s entrepreneurial spirit ignited early, inspired by her father’s transition from a 9-to-5 job to starting his own business. After graduating from Columbia University, she honed her skills in management consulting before launching her own successful floral, event, and interior design firm. However, the pandemic prompted a pivot, leading to the creation of ‘The Regal Suite,’ a curated content creation studio born out of necessity.

    The Regal Suite and the Growth of Zuri Rose

    The Regal Suite quickly became a sought-after creative hub, providing a dreamy backdrop for photoshoots, magazine covers, and music videos. Martin explained that despite the business challenges posed by the pandemic, the need for content creation persisted, giving birth to this new venture. While The Regal Suite is currently on pause, Martin is focusing her energy on expanding the Zuri Rose brand.

    What started as a picture book has blossomed into a comprehensive lifestyle brand. The Zuri Rose line now includes activity books, hair bows, dolls, garden seeds, and more, extending the magic of Zuri’s world into various aspects of children’s lives. This expansion reflects Martin’s vision to create a fully immersive experience around the character.

    The Power of Community

    Looking back on her entrepreneurial journey, Martin emphasizes the invaluable lesson of community. She reflects that if she could do it differently, she would have leaned on her community more. Starting multiple businesses often felt like a solitary endeavor, and she now advocates for being bold and brave enough to ask for help when building a brand.

    What are your favorite children’s books that feature diverse characters? Share your recommendations in the comments below!

  • LA Metro Honors Nipsey Hussle with Station Renaming

    Los Angeles Metro is honoring the indelible legacy of Nipsey Hussle with a special tribute coinciding with what would have been his 40th birthday on August 15th. The transit agency is celebrating the late rapper’s profound impact on the city’s culture and community through a temporary station renaming and the release of limited-edition TAP cards.

    Hyde Park Station Becomes Nipsey Hussle Station

    From August 15th through August 31st, the Hyde Park Metro station, famously located at the intersection of Crenshaw and Slauson – a significant spot in Nipsey’s life and music – will be temporarily renamed the Nipsey Hussle station. This symbolic gesture recognizes his deep connection to the area and his role as a community pillar.

    Adding to the tribute, Metro is releasing two unique, limited-edition TAP cards featuring iconic imagery of Nipsey Hussle. One card showcases a powerful photograph by Jonathan Mannion, capturing Nipsey at the very Crenshaw and Slauson intersection. The other card features a candid shot of him seated on a Metro bus, highlighting his roots and connection to public transit.

    Limited Edition TAP Cards for Fans

    A total of 12,000 of these special TAP cards will be distributed at various Metro locations, including the Hyde Park, Crenshaw, Slauson, Compton, Hollywood/Vine, and Expo/Crenshaw stations, as well as Metro Customer Centers. Additionally, new participants in Metro’s LIFE Program in South Los Angeles will receive one of these commemorative cards.

    These TAP cards are part of Metro’s ‘Metro x Culture’ campaign, designed to celebrate Angelenos who have significantly shaped the city’s cultural landscape, particularly those whose journeys began on Metro buses and trains. This initiative beautifully ties Nipsey Hussle’s story to the fabric of Los Angeles.

    An Enduring Legacy

    Nipsey Hussle’s influence extends far beyond his music; his commitment to community activism and empowerment left a lasting impact. This tribute from Los Angeles Metro serves as a powerful reminder of his contributions, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations.

    How has Nipsey Hussle’s music or activism inspired you? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below!