Diddy responds to video that shows him assaulting ex-girlfriend Cassie, Tems’ EP, “For Broken Ears” gets historic RIAA certification, Manchester City makes history, clinching fourth straight Premier League title. Stay in the know with our Rave News Digest, which summarizes five of the hottest global news stories you need to catch up on, saving you time and energy. Consider it your daily news fix.
1. Diddy responds to video that shows him assaulting ex-girlfriend Cassie
Diddy apology just droppedpic.twitter.com/61qSvqvNdi
— Omni ☕️ (@InfernoOmni) May 19, 2024
Sean “Diddy” Combs has issued a video apology, admitting to assaulting former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura in a hotel hallway in 2016. The apology comes after CNN released a surveillance video on Friday, which showed Combs physically attacking Cassie. In a somber video posted to social media, Combs stated, “I take full responsibility for my actions in that video. I was disgusted then when I did it. I’m disgusted now.” He went on to call his behavior “inexcusable” and expressed regret.
Combs had previously denied allegations of abuse made by Cassie in a lawsuit filed in 2023. The lawsuit was settled shortly after. Following Diddy’s apology, Cassie’s attorney released a statement criticizing the rapper, calling the apology “self-serving” and suggesting it was only prompted by the video’s emergence.
The disturbing video has not only questioned Combs’ image but has also reignited discussions about domestic violence. Diddy claims to have sought professional help after the incident and says he is “committed to be a better man.” However, the sincerity of his apology and the long-term consequences of his actions remain to be seen.
2. Tems’ EP, “For Broken Ears,” gets historic RIAA certification
Tems’ ‘For Broken Ears’ has now sold over 500,000 units in the US (@temsbaby). pic.twitter.com/K0xb65XusR
— chart data (@chartdata) May 16, 2024
Nigerian songstress Tems has achieved a remarkable feat with her 2020 debut EP, “For Broken Ears.” The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) has awarded the project a gold certification, signifying over 500,000 in sales and streaming units across the United States. This achievement marks a historic first for Tems, solidifying her as the first Nigerian female artist to have an RIAA-certified project.
Released in 2020, “For Broken Ears” is a 7-track collection that introduced the world to Tems’ unique blend of alternative R&B and Afrobeats. The project features the hit singles “Free Mind” and “Higher,” both of which garnered significant traction in the United States.
3. South African artists shine as Makhadzi, Focalistic, Tyler ICU, and Tyla score BET Awards nominations
Makhadzi, Tyla, Focalistic, and Tyler ICU have received nominations for the BET Awards.
The prestigious BET Awards will be held on June 30 in Los Angeles. This year’s theme is “Standing on Culture.”#reamediahouse#reagazette pic.twitter.com/C0Y6FXszgs
— Rea Gazette (@GetitRightRea) May 18, 2024
South African music is having a moment on the global stage, with four of its brightest stars receiving nominations at the prestigious BET Awards. Leading the pack is newcomer Tyla, who racked up a whopping four nods. The rising R&B/Pop artist is in the running for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, Best New Artist, Viewer’s Choice Award, and the coveted Best International Act category.
Following closely behind is Focalistic, a South African hip-hop heavyweight. He’ll be competing for Best International Act alongside Tyla. Producer extraordinaire Tyler ICU also joins the nominee list, vying for the Best New International Act award. Rounding out the South African contingent is the Limpopo-born queen of Limpopo House, Makhadzi, who is nominated in the Best New International Act category.
4. Rapsody pushes back against sexism, leaving female emcees out of GOAT debates
Renowned rapper Rapsody is calling out sexism in hip-hop. The star, known for her lyrical prowess and social consciousness, is on a mission to ensure female MCs get their rightful recognition in the genre’s “Greatest Of All Time” (GOAT) discussions. During her recent media blitz promoting her new project, the “Stand Tall” hitmaker spoke out against the marginalization of female rappers. In a “Breakfast Club” interview, she emphasized, “There’s no ‘female’ hip-hop. It’s just hip-hop, loved ones.” This sentiment echoes her May 12 tweet, where she made the same point.
Rapsody argues that labeling rap based on gender creates unnecessary divisions. She explains, “The audience is women, but what she does is hip-hop.” The 41-year-old views hip-hop as a collective art form, not one segregated by gender, and also insists that a rapper’s fanbase shouldn’t define their genre. Rapsody’s voice adds to a growing chorus demanding fair recognition for female MCs.
5. Manchester City makes history, clinching fourth straight Premier League title
🏆 MAN CITY ARE CHAMPIONS! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/I84b66E2AG
— Premier League (@premierleague) May 19, 2024
Manchester City cemented their place in the Premier League Hall of Fame on Sunday, May 19, securing a record-breaking fourth consecutive title after a dominant 3-1 victory over West Ham United on the final day of the season. This historic triumph surpasses the previous record held by Manchester United, who won three consecutive titles under Sir Alex Ferguson from 2006–2009. Pep Guardiola’s men have established themselves as a truly dominant force in English football, rewriting the record books with their relentless consistency.
The victory over West Ham never looked in doubt. Manchester City, with laser focus, took control of the match from the outset. Their goal-scoring prowess was on display once again, putting the game beyond reach before halftime. While West Ham pulled one back in the second half, it proved a mere consolation as City celebrated a momentous achievement. This title win marks Manchester City’s sixth Premier League trophy in just seven years.
Featured Image: @PopCrave/X
Our Weekday News Digest summarizes five of the hottest news topics worldwide–including celebrity news from Hollywood to Nollywood, the latest trending global headlines from American reports to top African news today, and the best sports stories in 2024.
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