Kanye West’s breakthrough single “Through The Wire” remains a landmark in modern music, widely praised for its audacity and lasting influence. Yet new details reveal a striking twist: despite the song’s success, West has reportedly never profited from its publishing rights. Across the 2000s and 2010s, he built a career defined by record-breaking sales, awards, and cultural influence. Still, this early hit—a cornerstone in his rise—yielded no financial gain tied to its composition. On a recent episode of the And The Writer Is podcast, producer and songwriter David Foster explained the unusual absence of West’s writing credit. Although West played a central role in composing and producing the track, his name is missing from the official “Written by” listings on platforms like Spotify. Instead, credit goes solely to Foster, Tom Keane, and Cynthia Weil—the writers behind Chaka Khan’s 1984 hit “Through the Fire,” which West sampled heavily in his song. Foster detailed the negotiation, revealing that West initially requested “50 percent” of the writing rights. Foster says he was open to the arrangement, but Weil refused, declaring, “‘F*ck that. No, he gets nothing.’” The result left West without compensation, while the original writers retained full credit for the track. Kanye West Got Zero Publishing on Through The Wire “He got nothing.” pic.twitter.com/98aoInYo4p — Henri Fjord (@henri_fjord) January 20, 2026 Looking Ahead: West’s Next Chapter Despite this early hurdle, West has consistently embraced creative risk, turning experimentation into a hallmark of his career. His upcoming project, Bully, is scheduled for release on January 30, 2026, and has already become one of the most pre-saved albums on Spotify, demonstrating his devoted fanbase’s anticipation. Yet questions remain about how listeners, both longtime and new, will engage with his latest work amid the scrutiny that often accompanies his releases. Bully will include 13 tracks with no featured artists, highlighting West’s focus on his personal vision and artistic narrative. As anticipation builds, fans and industry observers alike will be watching to see how this next chapter unfolds and what it reveals about one of music’s most influential and provocative figures.

For much of the past year, Ne-Yo has found his personal life drawing nearly as much attention as his music. The Grammy-winning R&B singer recently addressed the scrutiny during an appearance on the BagFuel podcast, where he spoke plainly about the attention surrounding his polyamorous relationship. His tone was neither defensive nor performative. Instead, he treated the moment as an opportunity to set boundaries. Ne-Yo made it clear that criticism of his lifestyle carries little weight in his daily life. “The dissatisfaction that exists does not concern me; it’s theirs to navigate,” he said. He emphasized that public disapproval has not altered his sense of fulfillment. “I wake up with a smile every day,” he added, before drawing a line between curiosity and intrusion: “If you find my life displeasing, simply look away. It is as straightforward as that. I am astonished by how much time people dedicate to their negativity directed at me.” As the conversation unfolded, Ne-Yo expressed frustration with how discussions about his relationships have overtaken recognition of his career. After more than 20 years in the music industry, he suggested that his accomplishments often take a backseat to speculation about his personal choices. “It’s not conventional to be this open about my relationships, and I recognize that. However, it feels disheartening when that is all that is discussed about me,” he said. “I have an extensive catalog filled with hits and Grammy awards — let’s engage in conversations about my music and achievements instead of merely my romantic situation.” Between Partnership and Public Scrutiny, Ne-Yo Defines Love on His Own Terms He has previously elaborated on the structure of his love life during an appearance on Sherri, describing it as “one relationship with three people.” Ne-Yo explained that while he maintains multiple partners, the arrangement does not allow for reciprocal relationships on their end. That condition, he acknowledged, was not initially defined. “I favor partnership over possession,” he said. “I aim to cultivate a joint experience rather than claim ownership over someone. If exclusivity is a facet of our partnership, it remains exclusive to me.” Outside of his relationships, Ne-Yo is also a father of seven, with children from multiple partnerships, including his former marriage to Crystal Renay. After their divorce in 2023, he publicly acknowledged his polyamorous lifestyle and introduced the partners involved at the time. While public interest continues to follow that chapter of his life, Ne-Yo appears resolute in how he frames it. For him, the story remains larger than the headlines—and rooted in a career he believes still deserves the spotlight.

In a recent Apple Music conversation, A$AP Rocky spoke thoughtfully about his relationship with A$AP Ferg. He offered a candid assessment shaped more by time than tension. The remarks arrived without theatrics. In this way, they presented a portrait of two artists whose paths have diverged while mutual respect remains. Rocky framed the distance not as a rift, but as a consequence of growth. Rocky acknowledged that he and Ferg have not spoken in some time. However, he emphasized that his feelings toward his longtime collaborator remain unchanged. He admitted that Ferg’s decision to remove “A$AP” from his name struck a personal nerve. Even so, it never turned into bitterness. “I haven’t seen Ferg in a minute, man,” he said. “I’ll always love Ferg. He’s got a good heart. That decision to drop A$AP? It bothered me, but I wish him the best.” While Rocky did not rule out the possibility of reconnecting in the future, he made clear that his attention is currently focused elsewhere. Furthermore, his tone suggested closure rather than conflict. This signaled an acceptance that not all bonds move forward in the same way. The Present Reality of A$AP Mob Ferg has yet to publicly respond to Rocky’s latest comments. However, he addressed the group’s status in an interview last year with Touré. “I don’t think there is A$AP anymore,” Ferg said, pointing to the absence of new group music or projects like Cozy Tape. While acknowledging the collective’s cultural impact, he suggested that its structure has fundamentally changed. Ferg added that public perception of A$AP Mob has long centered on himself and Rocky. “While people cling to the legacy we built, when you think of A$AP, it’s primarily about me and Rocky in terms of music. Our journey was bolstered by the likes of Bari and Yams. Yet we emerged as the primary faces of this movement. We came together as a group and found joy in that synergy. Even so, we’ve since evolved into separate entities.”

Nicki Minaj is at risk of losing her 20,000,000 mansion because she has not yet paid the over $5,000,000 lawsuit brought by an ex-security guard. Back in 2022, Thomas Weidenmüller claimed that the rapper’s husband, Kenneth Petty, assaulted him during a visit to Germany. In court documents obtained by The Daily Mail, the final judgment was made on Thursday (Jan.22). Since the rapper has yet to pay out the lawsuit, Judge Pánuco is seeking an order of sale for Minaj’s California home in the Hidden Hills.

Drake is appealing a federal judge’s decision on the “Not Like Us” ruling, claiming that it created a “dangerous categorical rule.” According to a briefing to the lower court obtained by Rolling Stone, the Toronto rapper calls the judge’s ruling an “unprecedented” and “categorical rule” that says “statements in rap diss tracks” don’t have to be “statements of fact.” He also claims that Universal Music Group’s persistent marketing of the song “misled consumers.” Per the brief, Drake claims the lyric about being labeled a “certified pedophile” carries heavy implications. The brief also noted that the court acknowledged the statement could be “capable of being proven true or false,” yet the ruling still ended up being dismissed. Drake’s Filing Labeled ‘non-actionable opinion’ TORONTO, CANADA – NOVEMBER 17: Rapper Drake leaves the court after the NBA In-Season Tournament game between the Toronto Raptors and the Boston Celtics at Scotiabank Arena on November 17, 2023 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images) Back in November, Drake filed his notice of appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals to challenge Judge Jeannette A. Vargas ‘decision that Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics were a “non-actionable opinion” and not a statement of fact.”The issue in this case is whether ‘Not Like Us’ can reasonably be understood to convey as a factual matter that Drake is a pedophile or that he has engaged in sexual relations with minors,” Judge Vargas wrote. “In light of the overall context in which the statements in the recording were made, the court holds that it cannot.” Vargas noted that in a “broader context,” back and forth with Lamar and Drake of the song was “a heated rap battle, with incendiary language and offensive accusations hurled by both participants.” She added, “[The song] would not incline the reasonable listener to believe that ‘Not Like Us’ imparts verifiable facts.”

T.I. return to music surprised hip-hop as we prepared for new tours and music from Bruno Mars, Cardi B, and Drake. Last week’s releases set an ambitious tone for January. A$AP Rocky’s Don’t Be Dumb marked a sharp, psychedelic return, blending experimental hip-hop with star power and reminding listeners why his voice still bends culture. YoungBoy Never Broke Again’s Slime Cry countered with raw volume and emotion, reaffirming his grip on rap’s streaming era. Singles from Rocky and T.I. kept momentum high, while emerging R&B quietly filled playlists beneath the noise. With January still unfolding, the pace suggests more statement projects ahead, as veterans and newcomers alike position 2026 as a year defined by risk, reinvention, and reach. While the week was filled with star-studded reveals, there are plenty of emerging and new artists that released new music this week you don’t want miss. Check out the list of new music you might have missed this week. T.I. & Pharrell Williams Rebirths The King of Da South Just To “Let Em Know” He’s Baaack. He’s cut the dreads off, he’s tipped his hat to the side again, and took it back to Bankhead. All roads lead to the anticipated Kill The King album. SugarHill Ddot Says This Is His “Confessions” The Harlem rapper’s song is wintry from the start, opening on eerie atmosphere, glowing melody, and chiming keys. He splits the difference between bars and singing as he peels back the layers, ruminating on love, loss, personal challenges, and growth — and what it means to be taking care of the family that raised him now that he’s found success. 42 Dugg Explains What “IDB” Means The Detroit rap star takes it back to the gravel in his latest track. It’s a song that showcases why his authenticity has drawn and rooted his cult following. The new music is gearing up to be the rapper’s best work yet. T.I., Elijah Connor, 2BYG, Shaquille Jones + MORE New Music You Might Have Missed This Week Buddy, Key!, & CUZZOS Explains How The “Ass Match The Legs” The former Pharrell protege admires the original curves in his latest release. The track introduces the rapper’s relatives, who also gush over the peaches. 2026 promises to be a big year for Bud. After Star Search, 2BYG Searches The World To Find “Someone Like You” The emerging R&B group takes it back to the 90s to find “Miss Right.” With 2026 wide open, the new group takes full advantage of the open lanes to the top of the charts, thanks to their impressive vocals, unity, and energy. This is the perfect origin point for newfound fans looking for that old thing back. 501Bryze Enters 2026 With The Bridge Part 1 Featuring new songs “Tell It” and “Been A Minute,” the EP finds the emerging artist in motion, blending melodic rap with reflection as he charts growth, loyalty, and survival. The project frames success as earned, not given, signaling a first step toward a larger artistic journey. Elijah Connor Says They’re “More Than A Friend” On the new track, the emerging singer is navigating the fragile space between friendship and romance. The song leans into unspoken feelings, late-night intimacy, and emotional hesitation. He pairs smooth, melodic production with a vulnerable yet confident delivery that captures the risk of wanting more. Voices of Fire & Pharrell Williams Find “The One” A bold, uplifting anthem, the track captures the spirit of the growing ‘Rhythm + Praise’ movement. The single fuses transcendent vocal power, hip-hop energy, and genre-bending production — a sonic evolution of pop culture. The song was recorded in Virginia Beach and Paris. Shaquille Jones Is Ready To “Ride For The Lord” In an era where conviction is often diluted and authenticity is treated as a trend, the Christian hip-hop artist arrives with a release that refuses compromise. The song is more than music—it is a declaration of accountability, loyalty, and unwavering faith.

Jayda Cheaves seemingly responds to claims that she’s dating Travis Scott. In an intense social media battle between Jayda and her former best friend, Emily Huff, the two are spewing accusations against each other. In the latest back-and-forth, Emily accused Jayda of being sexually involved with Travis Scott. “Stop calling me a fan. You wanted to be my friend. YOU ARE PROJECTING BECAUSE you steady repost Kylie and the Kardashians but you f*cking Travis Scott. Tell em how you were just trying to sneak in the backdoor of booby trap trying to spy on him..” View this post on Instagram Jayda Says She’s Single Jayda seemingly caught wind of the claims as a fan asked her via Snapchat, “sister is you single or not cause they be lying on you..” to which Jayda replies, “Yes I’m single, I’ve been single for years now.” View this post on Instagram

Verzuz is gearing up for another major producer showdown, as Hit-Boy and Mike Will Made-It have officially been announced as the next artists to go head-to-head on the iconic battle platform. The upcoming matchup will spotlight two of hip-hop’s most influential hitmakers, each with decades-defining catalogs that helped shape modern rap and R&B. Hit-Boy, known for his long-standing collaborations with Nas, Kanye West, Jay-Z, and Beyoncé, brings a discography packed with Grammy-winning and chart-topping records. On the other side, Mike Will Made-It has built an era-defining run of his own, producing massive hits for artists like Drake, Future, Rihanna, Miley Cyrus, and Kendrick Lamar. Fans can expect a high-energy battle as both producers dig deep into their extensive catalogs, trading rounds of iconic beats, anthems, and cultural moments that defined different eras of hip-hop. The Verzuz format, which pits artists against each other song-for-song, has become a fan-favorite event for celebrating legacy, competition, and creativity within the culture. The announcement has already sparked debate across social media, with fans weighing in on who has the stronger catalog and predicting which records will dominate the battle. With both producers responsible for countless classics, the matchup is shaping up to be one of Verzuz’s most competitive showdowns in recent memory.

Popular streamer-turned-aspiring fashion designer Kai Cenat is going viral at the moment following the resurfacing of an old clip of the Bronx native loading up firearms as a teen while singing along to Mariah Carey’s “Always Be My Baby.” Resurfaced on January 22, the clip, which originally circulated years ago, shows a teenage Cenat in a bedroom smiling into the camera as the background plays Mariah Carey’s “Always Be My Baby.” Cenat flashes and loads what appear to be multiple firearms and points them toward the screen. The validity of the firearms is immediately questioned on social media. Fans resurface skit of Kai Cenat singing Mariah Carey’s “Always Be My Baby” while totin blickys in the Bronx before the fame pic.twitter.com/roROHzjouD — Kollege Kidd (@KollegeKidd) January 22, 2026 The contrast between the visuals and the soundtrack immediately caught attention. Mariah Carey’s tender 1995 classic underscored the moment with unintended irony, turning the clip into a jarring mashup of innocence and recklessness that many viewers found unsettling. Concern dominated early reactions. “Pointing a live firearm at your chest is wild…,” wrote X user @Adamski_eth, echoing widespread alarm over gun safety. Others questioned whether the weapons were even real. “It’s not a blicky. It’s a bb,” tweeted @busncuy, while @youlovevally added, “That’s a pellet gun or BB… definitely not an upper.” Kai Cenat Clip Playing With Firearms In The Bronx Resurfaces While Singing Mariah Carey’s “Always Be My Baby” Goes Viral Similar skepticism followed, with @Sworn_Shills joking, “Didn’t know airsoft guns shot real bullets nowadays,” and @meseiver piling on: “Oh wow totin airsoft guns is really crazy..” Even among those convinced the guns were airsoft or pellet weapons, criticism remained. “has he ever heard of gun safety or what??” asked @torychisai, arguing that the behavior was dangerous regardless. Others leaned into humor to process the clip. “Kai waving those around while crooning.. i’ve got my own ways to make a song feel loaded btw,” tweeted @itzcutietory, calling out the surreal pairing of Mariah Carey’s vocals with the imagery. Some users contextualized the moment through place and age. “I mean have you ever been to the Bronx ,” wrote @Green610, while @BetOnYayo defended Cenat, saying, “So now ppl can’t be young a dumb at some point in his life.” Supporters also questioned why the footage resurfaced now. “Kai Cenat got ppl reading and taking care of their mental and physical health. Of course you would post this now… It won’t work,” tweeted @ItsASocialite. Others reacted with nostalgia. “This is how I remember Kai,” wrote @DXPop300, while @damianirl_ pointed to the irony of Cenat’s rise, adding, “Then he got Mariah Carey on his twitch. Legendary” The past moment merely showcases the tremendous growth in Kai Cenat’s streaming career.

Netflix’s decision to cancel rapper Vince Staples’ The Vince Staples Show after two seasons has ignited a wave of criticism across social media, particularly within hip-hop and entertainment circles, where fans and industry voices questioned how a critically praised series failed to secure a longer run. Netflix has officially canceled The Vince Staples show due to low ratings Netflix believes The Vince Staples Show never found a wide audience because it never charted on Netflix’s Weekly Top 10 yet it was well received by critics and audiences, scoring 94% with critics and 88%… pic.twitter.com/N9Ay30bHTS — Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod (@big_business_) January 21, 2026 The streaming platform cited performance metrics, noting that the series never appeared on Netflix’s Weekly Top 10 rankings, despite strong reception from both critics and viewers. Created by and starring Staples, the semi-autobiographical comedy earned a 94 percent critics score and an 88 percent audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, placing it among Netflix’s better-reviewed recent releases. Staples has not publicly commented on the cancellation, but the news quickly gained traction online. A post from popular X account @big_business_ announcing the cancellation surpassed 2 million views, amplifying the conversation beyond the show’s core fan base. Fans flooded social media with mixed reactions. Much of the backlash centered on Netflix’s marketing strategy. Karla Rodriguez argued the series was undermined by limited promotion, writing, “They didn’t promote it at ALL, despite Vince doing a lot of his own press.” Vince Staples’ The Vince Staples Show Ends At Netflix, Hip-Hop Speaks She also pointed to early online negativity as a factor, adding, “People got on here and started shitting on the new season just after it dropped and deterring others from watching. Tale as old as time!” Others framed the cancellation as a reflection of Netflix’s reliance on short-term data rather than creative impact. X user @D2X___ cited Staples’ own comments from past interviews, tweeting, “Vince said in an interview he would’ve been fine if they only gave him one season and he accomplished something most people never get a chance to do. He still WON.” The remark positioned the series as a success regardless of its lifespan. In December, Vince Staples tweeted: “The Vince Staples Show is now an HBO original.” Industry figures also weighed in. Television writer and showrunner Cheo Coker praised the project as “Brilliant,” adding, “Best of its kind since Atlanta. They should have extended it.” His comments highlight the show’s place within a small group of culturally specific, auteur-driven series that have found critical acclaim but limited longevity. The Vince Staples Show was often compared to classic TV series such as Twin Peaks and Curve Your Enthusiasm. For many viewers, the decision reignited broader concerns about Netflix’s track record with Black-led programming. “Yeah it’s time to have a serious conversation about how netflix treats black shows,” wrote @Okaylalia. Another user, @evduzit, echoed that sentiment, stating, “Netflix is uninterested in producing art. It’s been clear for years. It produces content, and that’s what us prioritized.” Some responses reflected lingering frustration with past cancellations. “THIS IS WHY I DON’T SUPPORT NETFLIX!!!” tweeted @Kingnjadaka, adding, “im still salty about them cancelling The Get Down!!!” Taken together, the reaction highlights an ongoing tension between streaming metrics and creative valuation, with The Vince Staples Show becoming the latest flashpoint in that debate.