Shockwaves continue to ripple through the industry following the release of Frank Ocean‘s new album ‘Blond.’

Most notable is Universal Music‘s ban on streaming exclusives, after the singer pulled off a colossal coup.

Because, as reported, Ocean fulfilled his contract with the corporate giant upon the soft launch of ‘Endless.’ A standalone visual effort. 48 hours later he’d go on to drop his actual sophomore album independently on Apple Music.

Word on the curb is that UMG had no clue. Hence the episode served as a catalyst for the the wielding of the ax on such exclusives.

Interestingly, the shenanigans appear to have impacted Lady Gaga‘s upcoming release.

Confused? All is explained after the jump…

(more…)

Today marks the 15th anniversary of Aaliyah‘s passing in a tragic plane crash.

With the world remembering the late, great songstress, so too is superstar Beyonce.

Though Aaliyah’s career set sail earlier than Mrs Carter’s, they both begun to experience intense success around the same time. A reality which birthed comparisons that have yet to quell till this day.

Throughout it all, though, the ladies were always fond of one another. A fact Bey celebrated today as she saluted the departed diva.

Full story below…

(more…)

The racially-motivated digital assault made against the actress Leslie Jones is to be investigated by Homeland Security.

Full story below…

(more…)

It’s finally time for fans of Usher.

The R&B icon’s long-awaited 8th studio album will be dancing into stores next month.

Full story awaits below…

(more…)

Rihanna will not only be performing at the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards, she’ll be receiving the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard honor.

We have our reservations about how deserving she is of the latter, but the reality is that come rain or shine, the Bajan beauty will be walking away with the award.

It naturally heightens expectation for her live showing come Sunday night.

Details are being closely guarded, but one of the key organisers of the Madison Square Garden spectacle is spilling.

His words await after the jump…

(more…)

Gliding towards many a playlist today is ‘Winter Diary 4′, the latest release by the 21-year-old performer Tink.

Currently faced with the threat that is Dreezy, the creative cut-crafter releases ‘Diary’ before the unveiling of her studio album ‘Think Tink’ and the promotional efforts she’s set to employ to ensure her art doesn’t go unnoticed by the masses.

Ready to hear what’s on her mind?

Meet ‘Winter’ in the summer below…

(more…)

Could this Sunday’s VMAs get any bigger?

The 2016 MTV Video Music Awards already boasts confirmed performances from the likes of Britney Spears, Rihanna, and allegedly Beyonce.

Now, sources are saying Kanye West will be taking to the stage too.

Full story below…

(more…)

The thirst for new Solange material may very well be quenched soon.

It’s been two years since the soulful songstress released her ‘True’ EP and promises of new music have been plentiful ever since.

Details remain scarce, yet the youngest of the Knowles clan whipped up excitement on Facebook today with the preview of  fresh visuals.

Check ’em out below…

(more…)

Michael Strahan‘s creative train is making its way towards a dramatic platform.

Full story below…

(more…)

‘Underground’s second season has welcomed Aisha Hinds to its cast.

Who she is to portray?

The African-America hero Harriett Tubman.

(more…)

Britney Spears and Alicia Keys are taking ‘all-out’ approach to their respective comebacks.

The RCA label-mates lead an all-star line-up at the 2016 Apple Music Festival, which takes place across 10-nights next month at London’s Roundhouse.

Details below…

(more…)

Much to ABC’s delight, ‘The View’ continues to break ground on the network with help from its current group of politically-aware ladies.

Joining them to celebrate its 20th anniversary is Mary J. Blige who recorded the Diane Warren-penned song ‘World’s Gone Crazy’ before the launch of its 20th season!

She’ll perform it live on the show on September 6th!

Before then?

Catch her in music video action with Whoopi, Joy, Jedediah, Sunny and the gang below…

(more…)