Monday’s episode of NBC’s reality songwriting competition ‘Songland’ saw R&B veteran Usher join as guest celebrity judge (June 15). A prized singer-songwriter himself, the GRAMMY winner sung the show’s praises ahead of choosing the song he wanted the record.

“This show is a necessity. People really don’t understand what we have to go through in creating a song. I love that it teaches people that there’s a process,” said the ‘Yeah’ singer. “What do I typically look for in a song? I think versatility makes a great song. I think you have to take people on a journey.”

The “journey” referenced in his quote must have taken him straight to the Sunshine State as one songwriter, Ryan Tedder, saw his song ‘Staying Over’ revamped by Ush and retitled to ‘California.’

Tapping GRAMMY-nominated Cali native Tyga to assist, listen inside for the latest from Mr. Raymond:

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Rock the Vote is set to kick off its Democracy Summer campaign Thursday (June 18) with a two-hour virtual concert.

Co-headlined by GRAMMY-winning Pop group Black Eyed Peas and GRAMMY-nominated Pop diva Katy Perry, the star-studded affair – hosted by Logan Browning and Rosario Dawson – will stream live beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Look inside to see what other big names you can expect to rock the event:

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Stacey Dash is dissolving her marriage.

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Despite industry analyst prediction ‘TROLLZ’ – the newest duet from 6ix9ine and Nicki Minaj – will power its way to a #2 debut on next week’s Hot 100, the duo are pulling out all the stops to push it to the chart’s summit.

In addition to selling the single for $.69 and offering to pay fans to help promote it (click here to read more), now Minaj is keeping conversation around ‘TROLLZ’ going with the reveal of an alternate version.

Taking to Twitter Tuesday (June 16), the GRAMMY nominee explained the official version was actually her 11th take whereas the alternate has a different verse and even changes the beat.

“The official #Trollz verse was version 11. This was version 1,” said Nicki of the ‘TROLLZ’ alternate. “Verse changes and beat changes… but now u guys get a glimpse of where my verse begins vs. how it ends up once my creative process is complete.”

Curious to hear it? Look inside:

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Chloe x Halle aren’t letting lockdown halt the push for new album ‘Ungodly Hour.’

The critically acclaimed set was unleashed last week and is powered in earnest by dynamic jam ‘Do It.’

Moments ago, the singing sisters took to the Today Show to deliver a potent performance of the track.

Watch the Parkwood pair get creative on a tennis court after the jump…

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When the ‘Real Housewives Of Atlanta’ returns for its 13th season later this year, it’ll be back sans Eva Marcille. Because the star has confirmed that she has departed the show.

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It’s ‘American Horror Story’ like you’ve never seen it before.

All you need to know about the hit show’s thrilling spinoff series after the bounce…

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Teyana Taylor is finally ready to unleash ‘The Album’!

And it’s coming sooner than you may think.

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Netflix has found a unique way to thank the black community for supporting its service…and join the fight against anti-blackness.

Learn more below…

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“Sorry if she feels that situation was racially motivated…”

Those were the words uttered by UK singer Tulisa, who is feeling the heat after former contestant Misha B named her as one of the key protagonists in what she felt was a racially charged shakedown on live TV.

As reported, Misha was branded a “bully” on an episode of The X Factor – with no tangible evidence to support. The comments, which were made by Tulisa and fellow judge Louis Walsh, dealt devastating damage to the hopeful’s chances on the show – as the stereotype is one the media took and ran with.

With the global dialogue about racism gaining volume, Misha shared her story in an impassioned video. During which she unpacked the racially coded attacks she experienced behind the scenes and revealed that she was left feeling suicidal and with PTSD.

Now, after the premeditated nature of the pile-on was confirmed by judge Gary Barlow, Tulisa is speaking up.

In a move many have deemed tone-deaf, the 31-year-old half-steps an apology, only to stand by the “bully” allegations. She then draws on the “I have black friends, family, and culture” trope.

Watch below…

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Camila Cabello has declared her support for the Trans community with an open letter released this week.

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Ariana Grande woke up Monday morning (June 15) to a slew of new Platinum certifications thanks to the ongoing success of singles found aboard her latest album, ‘thank u next,’ and more.

Pushing her closer to the top of the ‘most certified female artists of the digital age’ tally, Grande’s sales updates and recertifications saw her zoom by ‘Bad Guy’ beauty Billie Eilish to claim the #5 spot.

Look inside to find out what songs are responsible for the boost:

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