Jones has been widely referenced across Hov’s catalog as a key part of his inner circle. He was hit with cocaine trafficking charges, leading to a 16-year stint in prison. In 2010, Hov famously wrote a letter to a judge, stating that he would have employment for Jones upon his release and a re-entry plan. Since then, Emory Jones became the head of lifestyle at Roc Nation and co-founded the Paper Planes brand.

“Emory’s pardon is a powerful example of what second chances should look like,” Human Rights Attorney Jessica Jackson said of the pardon, per Complex. “The extraordinary range of support for him, from community leaders to some of the country’s most respected business leaders, speaks to the man he has become. It was an honor to be one of many who advocated for Emory, and I’m deeply grateful to President Trump and Pardon Czar Alice Johnson for believing in his redemption and giving him this second chance.”

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Emory Jones Pardoned

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“Emory Jones…served nearly 16 years in federal prison and came home determined to build a different life,” Johnson wrote. “Today he is an entrepreneur and creative leader whose journey reminds us how much people can grow—and how much good they can still do.”

Despite this becoming a joyous occasion, Bobby Shmurda, whose issues with Roc Nation are no secret, called out Hov after the news emerged. He claimed Hov can’t be gangster because he associates with rats, presumably Desiree Perez, the CEO of Roc Nation, who was a federal informant and also received a Trump pardon. 

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Read More Tupac, D4vd & Feeding The Conspiracies That Never Die

The post JAŸ-Z’s Friend Emory Jones Receives Pardon From Trump  appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Recently, Hill and Smith talked things out alongside Cari Champion on Flagrant & Funny. Both sides had their fair share of grievances to air out. Whether or not the three-hour conversation was productive is up to the fans to decide.

However, after the show aired, Stephen A. claimed that parts of the interview were cut out. Hill responded on X, saying that there was an editing mistake in the video, but the full audio can be found wherever you listen to podcasts.

“I hate to even address this because it’s feeding a false narrative,” Hill wrote. “The FULL interview is out on iHeart, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts and has been that way from the beginning. An editing mistake occurred involving the video — and no, Cari and I don’t have anything to do with the video — and that is why there is some video footage unaccounted for.”

Read More: Tupac, D4vd & Feeding The Conspiracies That Never Die

Jemele Hill Reacts To Stephen A’s Claims

Hill then went on to say that Smith’s team was made aware of the error, which proves that he was already privy to the information.

“This mistake was shared with Stephen A’s team, and they were also provided a full transcript as well as told exactly how it happened,” Hill continued. “Nothing nefarious occurred. Trust me, there is no smoking gun in the unseen video footage and you can go to the audio and listen for yourselves. The 20 minutes that is alleged to be missing is ALL there in the audio version.”

The conversation was meant to squash any underlying tension. However, Smith created an issue as soon as he left the show. It just goes to show that for Smith, a lot of this is about showmanship and WWE-type antics, instead of doing something productive.

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Most recently, a video surfaced of one of Kodak’s arrests back in May. It’s a rather odd video, showing Yak nonchalantly finishing a plate of takeout while the police wait for him. “He’s so hungry,” someone’s heard saying. The video then shows Kodak Black extending his hand and giving the arresting officer a handshake, who asks him if he’s ready. Yak gives him a thumbs up but continues eating. 

“The faster we get you there, the faster you get through,” the officer says as he places the takeout container inside the car as he hops out. Throughout the entire interaction, Kodak Black is incredibly calm, and police evidently reciprocate that energy back to him. 

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Kodak Black’s Arrest Video

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According to the Jasmine Brand, the footage relates to a prearranged surrender connected to an investigation in Orlando last year. Police said they found cash and MDMA in his car, along with documents that had Yak’s government name on it. They also said that the objects found in the car were similar to those seen on his Instagram page. Ultimately, Kodak Black pleaded not guilty to trafficking MDMA and posted bond. 

In other Kodak Black-related news, the rapper recently appeared on the remix of Yung Miami’s hit record “Spend Dat” along with Lil Baby. Moreover, his song “Skrilla” was included in the extended trailer for GTA VI on Netflix, which might indicate he has other songs in the game’s official release in November. 

Read More: Tupac, D4vd & Feeding The Conspiracies That Never Die

The post Kodak Black Makes Police Wait For Him To Finish Eating Before Arrest In Bodycam Footage appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

This is a big moment in the case, especially as Lil Durk is facing life in prison for allegedly orchestrating a murder-for-hire plot on Quando Rondo. While Rondo was the initial target, Lul Pab was the individual who was killed.

Last week, supporters showed up outside the courthouse, where they could be seen wearing “Free Durk” t-shirts, all while holding up signs with a similar message. Today, Durk’s supporters were in front of the courthouse again, this time in larger numbers.

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Lil Durk Trial Continues

However, according to Law & Crime reporter Cathy Russon, this crowd may not be authentic. According to her reporting, she was tipped off by someone who works as an extra that actors were being offered $125 for six hours to show up and stand in front of the courthouse.

In the image attached to Russon’s tweet, the description reads “Court support rally member. Rate: $125/6HRS. Female | Male |18-50 | Any Ethnicity | Comfortable participating in a peaceful court support rally.”

This is certainly an interesting development, especially when you consider how there was authentic support for Durk when the trial first started. If you remember, G Herbo and Doodie Lo came out to support.

Doodie Lo, specifically, has been the subject of criticism as he was seen streaming with N3on outside the courthouse. Furthermore, he even filmed a music video, which some felt was in poor taste.

Closing arguments are happening as we speak, so stay tuned to HNHH for all of the latest news and updates.

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The post Lil Durk Accused of Hiring Actors To March Outside Courthouse During Closing Arguments appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Durk’s father, Big Durk, sat down with N3on before closing statements where he discussed the case. When asked about what part of the case that isn’t getting discussed enough, Durk explained how he felt that there are a lot of flaws in the prosecution’s argument that people are overlooking.

“The fact that these people, these witnesses and this evidence is so weak, you know?” he said. “People aren’t focusing on that. Why is the government doing that?”

Read More: Tupac, D4vd & Feeding The Conspiracies That Never Die

Big Durk Speaks On Lil Durk’s Case

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Durk explained that he feels as though the jury should see through it when they are sent out to deliberate. “I’m praying that the jury sees through that weak evidence and these witnesses up here,” he said. He added that he doesn’t feel that any of the witnesses’ testimony lines up with each other. “Ain’t nobody story consistent,” he added.

The closing statements for Lil Durk’s trial is expected to begin today, September 8th, 2026. The trial saw some of Durk’s close associates take the stand, such as OTF Vonnie and OTF Jam, and both of their testimonies led to arguments that spilled over into the timeline. Jam, specifically, shared an alleged statement online where he accused Durk of screwing everyone over. 

We will continue to keep you posted on any further updates surrounding Lil Durk’s case. 

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The post Lil Durk’s Father Believes The Murder-For-Hire Trial Is Weak appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

They have all said the same thing: Durk allegedly told them to get vengeance for the death of King Von. Quando Rondo was the alleged target, although it was Pab who got killed in the end.

If convicted, Durk faces life in prison. Today, the trial will begin to reach its conclusion, as according to reporter Michael Blackshire, closing arguments are taking place this morning. The prosecution will reiterate its case, and so will the defense.

From there, the jury will get to deliberate and give a verdict. A verdict could take hours, or it could take days. It all depends on how the jury members feel about the evidence presented. It is believed that jurors will begin deliberations on Wednesday.

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Lil Durk Trial Continues

This is a case that the hip-hop world has been watching closely over the past couple of weeks, and it is easy to see why. Durk is a superstar in the rap world, and there is a chance he may not come home. Furthermore, even if he gets a not guilty verdict, he could be tried for other allegations that prosecutors originally tried to include in this trial.

His lawyers are Drew Findling and Brian Steel, who have worked with the likes of Gucci Mane, Young Dolph, Young Thug, and even Diddy. This is one of the most high-powered legal defense teams money can buy, and it remains to be seen if they can get their client a favorable outcome.

This story is developing, so stay tuned to HNHH for updates.

Read More: Tupac, D4vd & Feeding The Conspiracies That Never Die

The post Lil Durk Trial: Closing Arguments Begin This Morning appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

All of this is good news for Drake fans. In the immediate aftermath of his beef with Kendrick Lamar, Drizzy found himself more secluded than usual. While he popped out in early 2025 for a collaborative album with PartyNextDoor, he mostly remained hidden. As we all know by now, it’s because he had three albums’ worth of material to work on.

Now, Drake is teasing something new. For the last few weeks, he has been using the phrase “FOMO” (Fear Of Missing Out), and this has led to loads of speculation amongst fans and pundits alike.

Adding to the speculation was Drake’s announcement that he will be hosting a “FOMO” livestream on Tuesday, September 15 at 9 PM EST over on YouTube.

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Drake Announces FOMO Livestream

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But what exactly is “FOMO?”

Well, there are currently three working theories. Firstly, some believe that this could be some sort of album announcement. Perhaps the livestream is a premiere for the supposed album’s lead single.

The second theory is that this is going to be a tour announcement. With the success of Drake’s three recent albums, it stands to reason that he would want to get the ball rolling on a North American tour.

Lastly, there is a feeling that this could either be a new collaboration with Don Toliver or Ella Langley. Drake popped out at Toliver’s recent show and performed ICEMAN songs for the first time. Meanwhile, Drake recently did a cover of Langley’s “Choosin Texas.”

The options are truly endless. For now, however, fans are simply going to have to be patient until the livestream finally arrives.

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The post What Is Drake’s “FOMO” appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

If convicted, D4vd would be facing life in prison. However, there is also a slight chance that he could be given the death penalty for the alleged crimes. This would set a large precedent, and it would also make this one of the most significant cases in the history of the music industry.

In the months following Hernandez’s passing, her family has been the subject of scrutiny and criticism. Some believe they should have done more to protect her from D4vd. Exhibits from the courtroom suggest the family knew about the alleged relationship.

Now, the family is speaking out. According to Rolling Stone, they are even calling for the death penalty.

Read More: Tupac, D4vd & Feeding The Conspiracies That Never Die

D4vd To Go To Trial

“[It] would be perfect for this kind of human being, devoid of feelings and emptiness inside, and without conscience,” they said in a statement.

It is still unknown whether or not D4vd will face the death penalty. The District Attorney’s office has to decide if they will seek such a punishment, or simply leave things at life in prison. Given the details of the case and the alleged crime being committed, D4vd is very much eligible for capital punishment.

This is still a developing case, so stay tuned to HNHH for all of the latest news and updates from around the hip-hop world. Additionally, let us know your feelings on the case in the comments below.

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The post Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s Family Wants D4vd To Get The Death Penalty appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Now, it has a firm command of second place. This is impressive when you consider how artists like J. Cole and A$AP Rocky have also released albums this year.

However, Toliver doesn’t appear to be finished. During a recent show, the artist revealed that his new album Nitrous is going to be released this year. While he does not have a concrete release date, he did say, “I’m gon’ do this sh&t again this year.”

That is all the confirmation we need to say that Nitrous is going to be a late-2026 contender for album of the year.

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Don Toliver Promises Nitrous

Recently, Don Toliver brought out Drake at his show, which has led to rumblings that the two could be working on a collaboration. In fact, Drake is currently in the midst of rolling out something called “FOMO.” This could either be a new album, a new single, or a new tour.

There are other rumblings that a song with Don Toliver will be premiered on Tuesday, September 15, which is when Drake is set to have his “FOMO” live stream.

Whatever the case may be, it has become clear that Toliver is an artist in high demand. Since breaking out on Travis Scott’s Astroworld back in 2018, Toliver has continued to thrive, and now he finds himself as one of hip-hop’s biggest hitmakers.

Another album in 2026 would be the cherry on top for what has been a year to remember.

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The post Don Toliver Reveals Release Window For New Album “Nitrous” appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Their relationship issues have been on full display during their live streams. Blueface is consistently berating the mother of his son, while Nevaeh gives it right back to him. Meanwhile, Chrisean Rock has also been in the picture, which has certainly led to a larger audience on the Kick platform.

Nevaeh and Blueface have been together since he was locked up for violating his parole. However, as it turns out, Nevaeh made some questionable decisions behind his back. Previously, NBA YoungBoy said he had a thing with Nevaeh. This week, she confirmed this to be the case. In fact, she admitted to getting a tattoo of NBA YoungBoy’s face on her leg.

She then went on to say that she felt stupid for getting it. Nevaeh then got the tattoo covered up, only after telling Blueface that she got his face tatted instead, which was a complete lie.

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Nevaeh Talks YoungBoy and Blueface

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Nevaeh subsequently went on to refute that she was taken off NBA YoungBoy’s roster. Instead, she said that YB still respects her and they decided to go their separate ways. Instead, Nevaeh says she chose Blueface and rode for him while he was locked up.

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Ultimately, the Nevaeh and Blueface saga never ends. It’s a mirror image of what we saw with Chrisean Rock and Blueface when they first started getting together.

Only time will tell whether or not their Kick enterprise continues to thrive.

Read More: Tupac, D4vd & Feeding The Conspiracies That Never Die

The post Nevaeh Admits To Getting An NBA YoungBoy Tattoo While Blueface Was Locked Up appeared first on HotNewHipHop.