For much of his career, Drake has paid close attention to presentation. Album covers like Take Care, Nothing Was the Same, and Views have become part of the visual shorthand of the 2010s, as recognizable as the songs themselves. But the artwork for his 2021 release Certified Lover Boy—a dozen pregnant-woman emojis arranged on a blank white field—has remained a point of contention. The album was a commercial success, yet its cover drew immediate skepticism from some fans who questioned its spare, almost ironic design. In the years since, alternative concepts that surfaced before the album’s release have circulated online, fueling speculation about what might have been. The conversation flared up again this week beneath an Instagram post from NFR Podcast, where the hosts debated polarizing album art. Drake via IG story “ICEMAN 2026” pic.twitter.com/Of4PggOYDR — Kurrco (@Kurrco) February 24, 2026 When the Cover Becomes the Conversation When one commenter called Certified Lover Boy the worst example, Drake replied succinctly: “r u dumb lol.” The response, brief and unfiltered, reignited discussion about how much album packaging still matters in an era dominated by playlists and streaming thumbnails. For some listeners, the cover’s simplicity reads as playful provocation; for others, it remains a rare visual misstep in an otherwise carefully curated catalog. The renewed scrutiny comes as Drake prepares his next studio effort, ICEMAN. He has referenced the project since 2025 but has not confirmed a specific release date beyond indicating a 2026 timeline. As anticipation grows, attention is likely to fall not only on the music itself but also on the imagery that frames it—a reminder that, even now, presentation can shape perception.

The investigation into the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez has advanced, with an investigative grand jury naming the singer known as d4vd as the target of its inquiry. The grand jury, which began reviewing evidence in November, is examining whether he may bear criminal responsibility in the case. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said the artist faces an allegation of one count of murder but emphasized that no charges have been filed and no arrest has been made. The designation became public after previously sealed court documents from California were transferred to Texas and unsealed. The records show that prosecutors have sought testimony from members of the performer’s family. His mother, father, and brother challenged earlier court orders compelling their appearance, arguing that the supporting affidavits were partially redacted and deprived them of full information about the basis for the summons. Additionally, the family of d4vd voiced concern in court filings about the transparency of the proceedings. Legal analysts note that once an individual is formally identified as a target, efforts to secure witness cooperation often intensify. It remains unclear when the grand jury will conclude its work or whether it will recommend an indictment. Notably, d4vd representatives have not yet responded publicly to the inquiry. Case Moves Forward as Prosecutors Signal More Details to Come Celeste was reported missing from her home in Lake Elsinore, Calif., in April 2024. Her remains were discovered in September inside the front trunk of an impounded Tesla registered to singer d4vd. Authorities have not publicly detailed the nature of any relationship between the two. For Celeste’s family, the announcement marks a significant moment in a case that has drawn sustained public attention. In fact, the media coverage around d4vd and the ongoing legal case continues to grow. Prosecutors have said additional information may be released as the grand jury’s review continues.

Iman Shumpert is mourning a heartbreaking personal loss and recently shared an emotional message about the passing of his father. During an emotional appearance on Shannon Sharpe’s podcast “Club Shay Shay”, Shumpert recalls his late father’s love. “And our last convo, he just was like, ‘Man, you look good in them suits. Man, I like that you taking jobs now that you wearing that suit,’” he recalled. The retired basketball star took time to reflect on the profound impact his dad had on his life, speaking candidly about the grief he and his family are currently navigating. Known for keeping much of his private life low-key, Shumpert offered fans a rare and vulnerable glimpse into his emotions as he honored the man who helped shape his journey both on and off the court. “And then he told me, ‘Don’t come home, finish filming.’ Because we was filming the podcast. Told me and my brother not to come home, finish filming. He got to go in the hospital. He’ll be right back.” Shumpert says his father played a pivotal role in his development, not just as an athlete, but as a man. He credited him as a steady source of guidance, discipline and support throughout his rise from a standout high school prospect to an NBA champion. The loss, he admitted, has been extremely difficult to process. “I guess it’s like, the happiest hurt that you can have,” he said. “I know a lot of people didn’t have a father, and … I leaned on mine. I had friends that leaned on my father. And it’s like, it makes me happy as hell to say, like, he was a good man.” He added, “But it’s like, within that same breath, it makes you cry like a little baby [because] I ain’t got him no more.” View this post on Instagram Shortly after his passing, Shumpert took to Instagram to pay tribute to his late father. “Down goes the King…a sweet goodbye to the greatest man I’ll ever know,” he wrote. “You can take your rest pop, u did ur sh-t I promise. I don’t know if I’ll ever fit ur shoes but ima have em on everyday anyway. I love you man. Rest In Paradise.” View this post on Instagram

A Romanian appellate court on Thursday upheld a nine-month prison sentence imposed on rapper Wiz Khalifa, born Cameron Thomaz, for cannabis possession, rejecting his bid to overturn the conviction. View this post on Instagram The Constanța Court of Appeal deemed inadmissible Thomaz’s request to annul a December ruling that found him guilty of possessing dangerous drugs for personal use. The court also denied as unfounded his motion to suspend the sentence. The case stems from a July 2024 incident at the Beach, Please! Festival in Constanța County, where authorities alleged the Grammy-nominated artist smoked cannabis during his performance. Prosecutors said law enforcement later found more than 18 grams of cannabis in his possession. Romanian Court Rejects Wiz Khalifa’s Appeal Against 9-Month Prison Sentence Romanian law criminalizes possession of cannabis, including for personal consumption, with penalties ranging from three months to two years’ imprisonment or a criminal fine. In April 2024, a lower court fined Thomaz 3,600 lei, approximately $830, for illegal possession. Prosecutors appealed that sanction, arguing it was insufficient. In December, the trial court imposed a custodial sentence of nine months, replacing the earlier fine. Following the incident, Thomaz addressed the matter on social media. “I didn’t mean any disrespect to the country of Romania by lighting up on stage,” he wrote. “They were very respectful and let me go.” He added that he intended to return to Romania “but without a joint next time.” It remains unclear whether Romanian authorities will seek extradition. Thomaz is a U.S. citizen and does not reside in Romania. Cross-border enforcement would likely depend on applicable treaties and prosecutorial discretion. Thomaz, a Pittsburgh native, rose to prominence with his mixtape Kush + Orange Juice and later achieved mainstream success with the single “Black and Yellow.” The appellate ruling leaves his Romanian conviction intact.

Saturday Night Live has addressed reports of a backstage disruption during the taping of its 1,000th episode, which featured an appearance by Cardi B. The speculation centers on a joke delivered during the “Weekend Update” segment, hosted by Michael Che and Colin Jost. While the precise wording of the joke has not been disclosed, several outlets reported that it referenced Nicki Minaj and alleged political associations. According to TMZ, citing unnamed sources, Cardi reacted strongly to the remark. The report claims she threw her phone toward a monitor, damaging equipment, and at one point considered leaving the set. The joke was ultimately removed from the broadcast. Individuals familiar with the production suggested the matter had been resolved and indicated that the show would not rule out working with her again. Silence, Split, and a Fresh Start Cardi B has not publicly commented on the episode. The reports surfaced during a period of personal transition for the rapper. Recent coverage has indicated that she and NFL wide receiver Stefon Diggs ended their relationship shortly before the New England Patriots’ Super Bowl appearance. A source speaking to Us Weekly described the relationship as cyclical. “They are always so up and down. This isn’t the first time they have broken up.” The source added, “Cardi is single and putting herself out there again. She feels free. He betrayed her so many times. Her friends have been trying to show her that he is not right for her and that she deserved better.”

The ongoing dispute between 50 Cent and T.I. has taken a more complicated turn. It is now drawing in court records from more than a decade ago. This week, King Harris, T.I.’s 21-year-old son, posted what he described as a 2009 federal document related to the murder investigation of Lowell “Lodi Mack” Fletcher. The filing references an anonymous call. Investigators later connected that call to Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson. The document states, “After further investigation, it was discovered that the phone used to place the anonymous tip was connected to Curtis ‘50 Cent’ Jackson. Jackson confirmed that he was the person who placed the anonymous call and that he was in fear of his life following the death of Lowell ‘Lodi Mack’ Fletcher.” Fletcher had been affiliated with music executive James “Jimmy Henchman” Rosemond. Rosemond is serving a life sentence for his role in the killing and other offenses. View this post on Instagram King ups the ante In his caption, King presented the filing as a counterpoint to earlier claims made by 50 Cent about T.I. “I got 21 question but just answer this one,” he wrote, before adding, “So who was ‘Lodi Mac’ Yall know? Whoever he was, after he died thats when freaky cent started to fear for his life. And…. well it’s up there. Is this who called my pops a rat wit NO BLACK & WHITE WELL HERES YOURS SIR.” The post circulated widely, further intensifying an already public exchange. The disagreement between the two rappers began with a dispute over a proposed Verzuz battle. Since then, it has unfolded through interviews, diss tracks, and social media posts. In recent weeks, T.I. released new music addressing the tension. Meanwhile, 50 Cent responded online with criticism aimed at both T.I. and his family. King’s involvement has added a generational dimension to the conflict. As a result, it has shifted from a rivalry between two established artists to a broader public argument that now includes their children.

Teyana Taylor can now add another achievement to her already impressive resume. On Thursday (Feb.26), Time dropped off its annual “Women of the Year” list. Taylor—who graces the cover of the magazine—was selected for its prestigious 2026 class, along with 15 other pioneering women. According to Taylor, she predicted it all. “I love when it’s hard—that means it’s of purpose. I want everything that is supposed to be mine. And I’m going to work my ass off to make sure that I see that.” Taylor refers to herself as “creative” and doesn’t identify as just an actor, director, musician, dancer, or choreographer, but all of the above. While one might think her multifaceted talent would be a boost to her career, she admits it took time. Teyana Taylor covers TIME Magazine’s Women of the Year issue. by: Xavier Scott Marshall pic.twitter.com/EgYwOjY54J — Rap Alert (@rapalert6) February 26, 2026

Legendary underground hip-hop architect Roc Marciano sits down with Mornings with Mero for an in-depth conversation about his journey from Hempstead, Long Island to becoming one of the most influential producers and MCs in modern hip-hop. In This Interview: The rich hip-hop legacy of Long Island (Rakim, EPMD, Prodigy, Method Man & more)Creating his signature sound and producing his new album “656” from front to backLessons learned from working with Busta Rhymes and Flipmode SquadHow he survived the music industry collapse by going direct-to-consumerBuilding an ecosystem that inspired a new generation of artistsWorking with legendary producers like The Alchemist, DJ Premier, and Pete RockThe blueprint for independent success in hip-hop Key Topics:✓ Long Island’s underrated hip-hop history✓ Production techniques and influences (Pete Rock, Large Professor, Q-Tip)✓ The evolution from Marcberg to 656✓ Creating the “Roc Marciano sound” that shaped underground hip-hop✓ Work ethic lessons from Busta Rhymes✓ Cutting out the middleman and building direct fan relationships✓ Inspiring the next generation of MCs and producers Roc Marciano’s influence on modern hip-hop cannot be overstated. From his soulful production to his intricate wordplay, he’s created a blueprint that countless artists follow today. Representing: Hempstead, Long Island Latest Project: 656

Ray J is speaking out after an ex-girlfriend made a troubling public claim about his mental health. The singer and reality TV personality addressed the situation directly, pushing back against allegations that he was exhibiting “suicidal” behavior and urging the public not to jump to conclusions. View this post on Instagram The controversy began when Ray J’s former partner took to social media with an alarming message suggesting concern for his well-being. The post quickly circulated online, sparking worry among fans and fueling widespread speculation about the entertainer’s mental state. In response, Ray j denied the claims and emphasized that he is focused on his health, his family, and his ongoing business ventures. While acknowledging the seriousness of conversations around mental health, he made it clear that the characterization being shared publicly does not reflect his current reality. ““I’m feeling good right now — I’m not suicidal at this moment — I don’t need to call a hotline — I’m perfectly stable” Ray J told TMZ. As the story continues to develop, Ray J appears focused on moving forward and keeping attention on his professional moves rather than the controversy.

Kamala Harris just may return to the national stage as a presidential candidate in 2028. ​During a conversation with podcaster Sharon McMahon, Harris revealed that she has ruled out another presidential bid. When McMahon asked if Harris would consider another run, the former Vice-President didn’t hesitate to answer. ​”I haven’t decided,” Harris answered.”I might.” ​In an interview with the BBC, Harris said, “her grandniece would get to see a female U.S. president “in their lifetime, for sure.” “I am not done,” she said. “I have lived my entire career as a life of service, and it’s in my bones.” Back in the summer, many speculated that Harris would throw her hat in the ring and run for governor of California. After much speculation, Harris decided not to pursue the governorship. “In recent months, I have given serious thought to asking the people of California for the privilege to serve as their governor,” Harris said in a statement. “I love this state, its people, and its promise. It is my home. But after deep reflection, I’ve decided that I will not run for Governor in this election.” She added, “For now, my leadership — and public service — will not be in elected office. I look forward to getting back out and listening to the American people, helping elect Democrats across the nation who will fight fearlessly, and sharing more details in the months ahead about my own plans.” HARRIS MADE HISTORY IN 2024 Following President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the race on July 21, 2024, he immediately endorsed Harris, sparking a whirlwind consolidation of party support. In just 32 hours, Harris secured the backing of a majority of convention delegates, effectively clearing the field of any major challengers and transforming her from a vice-presidential running mate to the presumptive nominee almost overnight.