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13 Sep 2023

There’s a Loungefly x BTS Collab On the Way: Here’s Your First Look at the ‘Dynamite’ Collection

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Loungefly and BTS are joining forces for a “Dynamite” collaboration out next month — and Billboard has your first look at the must-have collection!

The Loungefly x BTS collection includes the brand’s signature mini backpack ($80), crossbody bag ($70) and trifold wallet ($50) with special nods to BTS.

BTS

This BTS-Themed Bag Is Perfect for Travel & It’s Only $15: Where to Pre-Order It Online

Inspired by the K-Pop’s band’s No. 1 single “Dynamite,” the star-studded collection is designed in a shimmery, purple iridescent shade with intricate Pop! illustrations of BTS members RM, SUGA, j-hope, Jung Kook, V Jimin and Jin. Fans will also notice other BTS-inspired details such as the group’s logo and silver stars featured across the front of each piece in the collection.

Loungefly x BTS Collection

Loungefly x BTS Collection

Courtesy of Loungefly

Loungefly’s BTS collection offers up a new batch of accessories for BTS fans to grab in honor of the group’s 10th anniversary, which was celebrated in July.

BTS’ Grammy-nominated single, “Dynamite” debuted atop the Billboard Hot 100 in 2020, earning the band its first No. 1 hit and first Grammy nomination. The song also landed on Billboard’s list of Best Songs of 2020.

The K-Pop group has collaborated with several other brands in the past such as Lego and Nordstrom on limited collections inspired by “Dynamite.”

Get ready BTS Army! The collection will drop online and in select stores in October, but that’s not the only way that fans can shop the new collection as it will also be available at Loungefly Official Europe next month, with prices ranging from £40.00-  £75.00.

Visit Loungefly.com to get notified when the collection officially drops. See more photos of the Loungefly x BTS collection below.

Loungefly x BTS Collection

Loungefly x BTS Collection

Courtesy of Loungefly

Loungefly x BTS Collection

Loungefly x BTS Collection

Courtesy of Loungefly

13 Sep 2023

Ivan Cornejo Signs Global Deal With Universal Music Publishing Group

Mexican music singer-songwriter Ivan Cornejo has signed an exclusive global publishing agreement with Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG), the company announced Wednesday (Sept. 13). The deal with UMPG comes just weeks after Cornejo joined Interscope Records’ roster — he had been signed to indie label Manzana Records since 2021.

“I’m incredibly grateful about my signing with Universal Music Publishing,” the 19-year-old artist said in a statement. “I’m working alongside some of the most talented musicians and artists. There’s an incredibly powerful team of strong women and men making changes in the entertainment business and I’m glad to be partnered with this team.”

Born in Riverside, Calif., Cornejo broke out two years ago with his sad sierreño hit “Está Dañada,” which led him to top Billboard‘s Latin Songwriters chart dated Oct. 30, 2021. The track — which also has a remix featuring Jhayco — became only the second regional Mexican song to enter the Hot 100 tally. Last year, Cornejo scored his first No. 1 on the Regional Mexican Albums with his sophomore album, Dañado, and he won new artist of the year the 2022 Billboard Latin Music Awards.

“It’s a joy and privilege to work with singer-songwriters like Ivan who have the ability to convey deep and complex emotions through their music that inspires and connects with so many people. The UMPG team is happy to welcome Ivan to our family,” added Ana Rosa Santiago, UMPG’s senior vice president of Latin music.

Cornejo — currently on his sold-out U.S. Terapia Tour — joins UMPG’s roster that includes other regional Mexican powerhouses such as Grupo Firme, Jenni Rivera’s estate, Juan Gabriel, Espinosa Paz, Horacio Palencia and Yahritza Y Su Esencia.

13 Sep 2023

French Watchdog Says This Recent iPhone Model Is Too Radioactive and Should Be Pulled

A government watchdog agency in France has ordered Apple to withdraw the iPhone 12 from the French market, saying it emits levels of electromagnetic radiation that are too high.

The National Frequency Agency, which oversees radio-electric frequencies as well as public exposure to electromagnetic radiation, called on Apple in a statement Tuesday to “implement all available means to rapidly fix this malfunction” for phones already being used.

Corrective updates to the iPhone 12 will be monitored by the agency, and if they don’t work, “Apple will have to recall” phones that have already been sold, according to the French regulator’s statement.

Apple disputed the findings and said the device complies with all regulations governing radiation.

The agency, which is known by the French acronym ANFR, said it recently checked 141 cellphones, including the iPhone 12, for electromagnetic waves capable of being absorbed by the body.

It said it found a level of electromagnetic energy absorption of 5.74 watts per kilogram during tests of a phone in a hand or a pocket, higher than the European Union standard of 4 watts per kilogram.

The agency said the iPhone 12 met the threshold when radiation levels were assessed for a phone kept in a jacket or in a bag.

Apple said the iPhone 12, which was released in late 2020, has been certified by multiple international bodies and complies with all applicable regulations and standards for radiation around the world.

The U.S. tech company said it has provided the French agency with multiple lab results carried out both by the company and third-party labs proving the phone’s compliance.

Jean-Noël Barrot, France’s minister in charge of digital issues, told France Info radio that the National Frequency Agency “is in charge of controlling our phones which, as there are software updates, may emit a little more or a little less electromagnetic waves.”

He said that the iPhone 12 radiation levels are “slightly higher” than the standards but “significantly lower than levels where scientific studies consider there may be consequences for users. But the rule is the rule.”

Cellphones have been labeled as “possible” carcinogens by the World Health Organization’s cancer research arm, putting them in the same category as coffee, diesel fumes and the pesticide DDT. The radiation produced by cellphones cannot directly damage DNA and is different from stronger types of radiation like X-rays or ultraviolet light.

In 2018, two U.S. government studies that bombarded mice and rats with cellphone radiation found a weak link to some heart tumors, but federal regulators and scientists said it was still safe to use the devices. Scientists said those findings didn’t reflect how most people use their cellphones and that the animal findings didn’t translate into a similar concern for humans.

Among the largest studies on potential dangers of cellphone use, a 2010 analysis in 13 countries found little or no risk of brain tumors.

People’s mobile phone habits also have changed substantially since the first studies began and it’s unclear if the results of previous research would still apply today.

Since many tumors take years to develop, experts say it’s difficult to conclude that cellphones have no long-term health risks. Experts have recommended that people concerned about their cellphone radiation exposure use earphones or switch to texting.

13 Sep 2023

Selena Gomez Shares Candid Moment With Taylor Swift: ‘She’s Looks Stunning, I Look Constipated’

If there’s one thing you can count on both Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift to deliver during an awards ceremony, it’s incredible reaction shots. But the pair was spotted in a candid moment together at the 2023 MTV VMAs that has even Gomez laughing.

In a post to her Instagram Stories late Tuesday night (Sept. 12), Gomez shared a photo taken of her and her bestie Swift greeting each other during the ceremony at New Jersey’s Prudential Center. With the camera catching Gomez at an inopportune moment, the Only Murders in the Building star decided to make light of the funny face she made. “She looks stunning, I look constipated,” Gomez wrote under the photo. “Typical.”

The candid moment with Swift was far from the only big reaction fans got to see from Gomez on Tuesday. Throughout the VMAs, the “Single Soon” singer was spotted making a face at Chris Brown’s name being announced and looking genuinely spooked during Olivia Rodrigo’s performance.

After seeing the influx of reactions to her reactions from the evening, Gomez made a brief statement on her Instagram Stories, seemingly letting folks know that the viral moments were perhaps not all that funny to her. “I will never be a meme again,” she wrote. “I’d rather sit still than be dragged for being myself. Much love.”

Meanwhile, Gomez’s friend Swift had a huge night at the 2023 VMAs. Along with being the most nominated artist of the evening with a whopping 11 nods, the “Anti-Hero” singer ended up taking home nine awards, as well as sweeping the top categories of video, artist, song and album of the year. Gomez also took home a Moon Person for best Afrobeats alongside Rema for their collaboration “Calm Down.”

13 Sep 2023

Here’s Who Runs Diddy’s Empire Now

Diddy is gearing up to release his first album in 13 years, The Love Album: Off the Grid, on Sept. 15.

While the music and business mogul is in album mode, his multiple interests continue to be overseen by a seasoned group of executives, including his management team at SALXCO. Read on to learn about the executives working behind-the-scenes at Combs Global, REVOLT TV & Media and more.

Nathalie Moar – Longtime Advisor and Communications Lead 

Moar is a. global communication strategist who manages Diddy’s narrative and brand image across his multi-brand empire, as well as all of his various activations.

Che Pope – Head of Love Records

Pope’s experience in the music industry spans 25 years in both the creative and executive arenas of the music business. The Grammy-winning producer has collaborated with artists such as Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Carlos Santana, Destiny’s Child, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Dr. Dre, The Weeknd, Diddy and Kanye West.

Frankie Santella – Vice President of Music Management & Strategic Partnerships

Santella was first hired by Diddy as part of Bad Boy Management in New York City, where he was involved in cultural events such as Diddy’s 50th birthday celebration, 2013 attendance at Burning Man and collaborations with such companies as Nike, Ciroc, WWE and Live Nation. In 2020, Santella moved to Los Angeles to work at Combs Global.

Kristina Khorram – Chief of Staff to Sean “Diddy” Combs

Khorram works side by side daily with Diddy and spearheads many of his projects and events.

Deon Graham – Chief Brand Officer

Graham oversees brand presence, strategic marketing, growth and development for Diddy’s portfolio of companies.

Tarik A. Brooks – President

The seasoned executive, with over 22 years of experience, oversees all business operations and investments owned by Diddy.

Detavio Samuels – CEO of REVOLT TV & Media

Samuels leads all business efforts with a bicoastal team of young executives and creators, working to build the world’s largest Black-owned media company.

Jay Lundy – Senior VP of Investing & New Ventures

In his role, Lundy leads new ventures, investment diligence and business development strategy.

Dr. Steve Perry – Founder & Head of Capital Preparatory

Perry is an educator, bestselling author, and founder and head of schools at Capital Preparatory Schools. Since 2006, he has sent 100% of their predominantly low-income, minority and first-generation high school graduates to four-year colleges.

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WATCH: Diddy Talks About His New Album ‘The Love Album,’ New Record Label & More

13 Sep 2023

Charter Spectrum & Disney Strike Deal Right In The Nick of Time For Monday Night Football

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Disney Pulls Channels Including ESPN and ABC, From Charter Spectrum Cable Service Over Fees Dispute

Source: Mario Tama / Getty / Spectrum 

Spectrum customers breathed a sigh of relief on Monday, September 11, when Spectrum’s owner, Charter and Disney struck a last-minute deal.

The new deal between Charter and Spectrum came in the nick of time, delivering millions of Spectrum subscribers to channels like ABC and ESPN so they could watch the premiere of Monday Night Football and watch Aaron Rodgers’ debut season as a New York Jet come to an abrupt end. 

Engadget reports the new deal will come with streaming-related perks for Spectrum subscribers, like access to ESPN’s standalone streaming service that is currently still in the works.

Per Engadget:

Those subscribers will also have access to the ad-supported basic tier of Disney+ in the coming months, while Spectrum TV Select Plus customers will be able to check out ESPN+ as part of their plan. According to CNBC, Charter will pay higher subscriber fees to Disney.

It seems that Charter customers having access to ad-supported versions of Disney’s streaming services was a point of contention between the companies before they finally reached a deal. In the meantime, Disney started offering Hulu + Live TV at a discounted rate of $50 a month for three months (the usual rate is $70) ahead of a price increase in October.

As part of the new deal, Spectrum subscribers will gain access to 19 of the Disney-owned networks, including the Disney Channel, FX, the Nat Geo Channel, and ABC-owned networks.

More than 32 million Spectrum subscribers have been in the dark since August 31 due to the dispute. While it was going on, both companies’ stock prices took a hit, with Reuters reporting Spectrum’s shares fell 2% due to ESPN not being available to customers, while Disney’s shares fell to 2.7%.

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Photo: Mario Tama / Getty

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13 Sep 2023

Doja Cat, Shakira & More: Which 2023 VMAs Performance Was Your Favorite? Vote!

With the 2023 MTV VMAs in the rearview mirror, the time has come to reflect on one of the most important questions from Tuesday evening’s ceremony (Sept. 12): Which performers really brought it to the main stage of the annual awards show?

Throughout the nearly four-hour show on Tuesday, viewers were treated to all kinds of special awards show-specific treats. Taylor Swift, who swept all the top categories, got to meet her childhood heroes when *NSYNC presented her with the award for best pop early in the evening. She also made sure to let the evening’s emcee, Nicki Minaj, know that she was her “favorite Sagittarius.” When accepting his Global Icon award, Diddy (Billboard‘s latest digital cover star) admitted that before he set his sights on taking over the music industry, he had always dreamed of playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Yet, among all the memorable moments from the 2023 VMAs, none stand out quite as much as the show-stopping performances. It’s not an easy group to choose from — the show gave fans a whopping 18 main stage performances, ranging from pop superstars such as Doja Cat’s Suspiria-tinged Scarlet medley and Olivia Rodrigo’s fiery “Get Him Back,” to Latin icons including Shakira giving a tour of her greatest hits before receiving her Video Vanguard Award, or Anitta bringing her favela funk to New Jersey’s Prudential Center.

While Billboard already made our picks for the evening’s best performances, we want to hear from you. Which 2023 VMAs performance was your favorite of the evening? Vote below!

13 Sep 2023

Here’s How Megan Thee Stallion Responded to Rumors of a Justin Timberlake Beef at the VMAs

Megan Thee Stallion wants to make it very clear that she has no beef with Justin Timberlake. On Wednesday morning (Sept. 13), the Grammy-winning “Savage” rapper took to TikTok clear up any confusion stemming from a widely misinterpreted video from backstage at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards on Tuesday night (Sept. 12).

In a hilarious move, Megan’s TikTok finds her conversing with Timberlake while using her hands to accent her phrases — but viewers can’t hear anything that the two are saying. Instead, Megan posted the video to the soundtrack of Do As Infinity’s “Fukai Mori,” a 2001 J-pop ballad that served as the second ending theme for a popular anime series titled Inuyasha — a nod to her well-documented love for anime.

In the clip, the rapper appears to say something along the lines of, “I’m not beefing with Justin Timberlake, chill!” before the pop star jumps in and recites her signature “Real hot girl s–t!” ad-lib. On Instagram, where she reposted the TikTok, Megan captioned the post, “I just talk with my hands??‍♀️ lol @justintimberlake love ya ?.”

Fans were quick to rise to Megan’s defense after a backstage clip from Tuesday night’s VMAs ceremony appeared to show her and Timberlake in some kind of verbal altercation. However, a source told Billboard that Megan was simply excited to meet Timberlake, insisting on a proper introduction in a less chaotic environment.

Both artists had memorable VMAs nights outside of this viral moment. Megan, alongside Cardi B, debuted the first live performance of their funky new “Bongos” collaboration, while Timberlake reunited with his *NSYNC bandmates for the first time in 10 years.

Check out Megan’s response video below:

13 Sep 2023

Danelo Cavalcante, Escaped Pennsylvania Inmate, Has Been Caught

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Danelo Souza Cavalcante wanted poster

Danelo Cavalcante, the escaped murderer who made a daring escape from a Pennsylvania prison, has been caught after a manhunt was launched to bring him back behind bars. Cavalcante was captured without incident by a massive tactical force of various law enforcement agencies, bringing to a close the chase after the convicted murderer who eluded authorities for weeks.

As reported by local outlet Fox 29, Danelo Cavalcante, 34, was found in Pottstown, Pa., a small town northwest of Philadelphia around 8 a.m. Wednesday (September 13). The manhunt for Cavalcante, a native of Brazil, began after he escaped Chester County Prison on August 31 by climbing a prison wall, then bypassing razor wire before jumping from a roof to the other side.

From the onset, Cavalcante found ways to evade the clutches of the authorities and managed to steal a van aiding in his escape. While the trail remained warm for officials seeking Cavalcante, he found ways to alter his appearance and survived by sleeping in nearby woods, breaking into homes to steal food, and even getting hold of a light firearm.

According to sources speaking to Fox 29, Cavalcante was found at a John Deere dealership in Pottstown with a .22-caliber rifle. According to the Associated Press, Cavalcante was found using thermal imaging which directed the authorities to his location. Reports say that Cavalcante was possibly bitten by a police dog in the hunt.

Earlier this year, Cavalcante was handed down a life sentence for the 2021 murder of his girlfriend, stabbing her to death in front of her children. Cavalcante was also sought by Brazilian authorities in connection to a shooting death.

On X, reactions from observers range from relief to some making light jokes about the fact that Danelo Cavalcante was caught wearing a Philadelphia Eagles jersey. We’ve got a handful of reactions from all sides below.

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Photo: Handout/Crime Stoppers

13 Sep 2023

Jewel Set to Perform at Project Angel Food’s Angel Awards

Jewel is set to perform at the Angel Awards Gala on Saturday, Sept. 23. The event will be held in the parking lot at Project Angel Food’s Hollywood kitchen, which will be transformed into a “ballroom under the stars.” Project Angel Food prepares and delivers more than 1.5 million meals each year to more than 4,000 individuals living with a wide range of critical illnesses in Los Angeles County.

Jewel, who has reached the top 10 on the Billboard 200 with six albums, is a singer-songwriter, actress, author and long-time mental health advocate. For 21 years, her Inspiring Children Foundation and Jewel Inc. have been bringing mental health programs to at-risk youth and to corporations. Jewel also created SELLA, a language arts curriculum for schools that incorporates social and emotional learning and mental health practices. She recently co-founded the virtual mental health platform Inner.world.

Jewel may be best known for her double-sided smash “Foolish Games”/“You Were Meant for Me,” which rode the Billboard Hot 100 for 65 weeks in 1996-97, peaking at No. 2. Her other hits include “Who Will Save Your Soul” and “Hands.” Jewel has received four Grammy nominations.

Sheryl Lee Ralph will receive the inaugural Sheryl Lee Ralph Legacy Award. Ralph won a Primetime Emmy last year for outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series for Abbott Elementary. She is nominated in that category again this year. She received a Tony nomination for best actress in a musical in 1982 for Dreamgirls.

Ralph’s commitment to Project Angel Food spans three decades. In a statement, Project Angel Food CEO Richard Ayoub explained why the organization created the Legacy award that will bear Ralph’s name in perpetuity. “When no one and I mean NO ONE would stand up for people living with AIDS, Sheryl Lee Ralph risked her career and her livelihood to do what was right. She had seen too much suffering and wanted to help. That commitment to those in need has not wavered in 34 years! This new Sheryl Lee Ralph Legacy Award is long overdue.”

AIDS activist, artist and author Mary Fisher will receive the 2023 Angel Award, a distinction previously bestowed on Judith Light, Elizabeth Taylor, George Michael, Sharon Stone and Whoopi Goldberg, among others. Fisher may be best known for a pair of bridge-building speeches she delivered at the Republican National Conventions in Houston in 1992 and San Diego in 1996. Fisher serves on Project Angel Food’s board of directors.

The Angel Awards are presented by naming sponsor Wells Fargo, with Glamazon L.A., Amazon’s LGBTQ+ Affinity Group, joining as a principal sponsor.