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Megan Thee Stallion has delivered a scathing response to Tory Lanez, calling him a “demon” as he and his legal team continue trying to overturn his 2023 conviction for shooting her in 2020.
Posting to TikTok, Megan expressed anger and exhaustion over the ongoing efforts to discredit her and questioned why the situation continues to be dragged out publicly.
The Hot Girl went in on the Canadian rapper, “At what point are yall gonna stop making me have to relive being shot BY TORY!? At what point are Tory and yall FANS gonna stop lying? Like how much is the check to keep harassing me? Why is this happening EVERY DAY?” she asked, clearly fed up with what she sees as a campaign to undermine the truth. Megan called out the contradictory narratives being pushed, saying, “One min him, yall said I was never shot, now yall letting him play in yall face AGAIN and say I was shot but it wasn’t him oh okay…?!”
She criticized Lanez for not taking the stand during his trial, stating, “HE AINT DARE GET ON THAT STAND AND DENY HE SHOT ME AND THAT WAS HIS CHOICE BECAUSE HE KNOWS HE DID THAT SHIT!” Megan pushed back hard against suggestions of new developments in the case, declaring, “FACTS ARE FACTS, he did it, it was PROVEN IN COURT, fuck the hate campaign on the internet, TORY YOU SHOT ME!! Ain’t no new fucking evidence yall been saying the same shit for years.”
More news to come as the drama is far from over.
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Sony Music Publishing returned to No. 1 on the Hot 100 Songs and Top Radio Airplay charts in the first quarter, regaining ground it lost to Warner Chappell Music at the end of last year.
The publisher regained the top spot on Top Radio Airplay — which it had held for 14 consecutive quarters until the fourth quarter of 2024 — with 27.61% of the market and clinched No. 1 on Hot 100 Songs with 28.31%, thanks to its share of a whopping 73 songs on both charts, including the No. 1s on each: “Die With a Smile” by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars on the former and “Luther” by Kendrick Lamar and SZA on the latter. Lamar also ranked as the quarter’s top Hot 100 Songs writer.
Warner Chappell dropped to No. 2 (22.45%) on Top Radio Airplay and to No. 3 on Hot 100 Songs (20.52%) with stakes in 61 and 62 songs, respectively. The No. 1 Top Radio Airplay songwriter, Amy Allen, co-wrote eight of those tracks, including the Sabrina Carpenter hits “Espresso” and “Taste,” as well as the Rosé and Bruno Mars smash, “APT.”
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Universal Music Publishing Group rose one position to No. 2 on Hot 100 Songs due to a dramatic quarter-to-quarter market-share surge from 19.92% to 25.04%. Its strong showing was fueled by Lamar, who wrote or co-wrote eight songs on that chart.
Kobalt and BMG remained steady at No. 4 and No. 5, respectively, on both rankings despite Hot 100 Songs market-share declines. Kobalt dropped from 10.89% to 8.23% quarter to quarter, and BMG fell from 4.67% to 3.64%. Each has a piece of “Die With a Smile,” which helped maintain their positions as the top indie publishers in the rankings.
For the last three months of 2024, Pulse finished ninth on Top Radio Airplay and fell short of the Hot 100 Songs top 10. It has made significant gains since then, ranking at No. 6 on the former and at No. 8 on the latter, thanks to the continued success of Koe Wetzel’s “High Road,” which finished the first quarter at No. 13 on Top Radio Airplay and No. 32 on Hot 100 Songs. Pulse also benefited from shares of five other Top Radio Airplay hits in the first quarter and six more for Hot 100 Songs.
Recognition Music, previously known as Hipgnosis Songs Group, rose one position on Hot 100 Songs to No. 7 but fell one spot on Top Radio Airplay. Its shares of songs included “Espresso” and Teddy Swims’ “Lose Control,” both holdover hits from 2024.
First-timers on the rankings are Whooping Crane Music and Mothership Music, which took the ninth and 10th spots, respectively, on Hot 100 Songs. The former had a share in the No. 14 song, Lamar’s “Squabble Up.” The latter is the home of Latin alt-rock band The Marías, who, after years of building a fan base, have begun to break into the mainstream. This year, their song “No One Noticed” went viral and hit No. 34 on the Hot 100 in the first quarter. The act also appears on Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco’s “Ojos Tristes.”
Additional reporting by Ed Christman.
Megan Thee Stallion is slamming Tory Lanez and his legal team after they claimed that there is allegedly new evidence to prove that the Canadian rapper didn’t shoot the “Savage” artist, but that someone else did. “At what point are yall gonna stop making me have to re live being shot BY TORY !? At […]
Best known as a dancer, rapper and singer-songwriter in BTS, j-hope has long stood out, with a magnetic stage presence and captivating dance moves that helped propel the group to global stardom. Now — as ARMY around the world anticipate the group’s remaining members completing South Korea’s mandatory military service and BTS reuniting in June, with group activities on hold until 2026 — the charismatic 31-year-old is distinguishing himself further, carving out a bold solo identity that showcases a versatility and creative range that extend far beyond his BTS persona.
Following his 2022 debut solo album, Jack in the Box, which peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard 200, and his 2024 Hope on the Street, Vol. 1 EP that rose to No. 5 on the chart, j-hope has already released collaborations this year with stars including Miguel, Don Toliver and Pharrell Williams. And with his Hope on the Stage World Tour, which kicked off Feb. 28 in Seoul, j-hope is reaching new heights: His show at Los Angeles’ BMO Stadium made him the first South Korean male solo artist to headline a U.S. stadium. (His bandmate Jin will hit the road this summer.) The tour — which will wrap June 1 after visiting 15 markets across North America and Asia, including a May 31 show in Osaka, Japan, that will be broadcast live to cinemas around the world — has mirrored his own artistic growth as he prepares for the next stage of his solo journey with his upcoming album. J-hope sat down with Billboard Korea in Los Angeles for an exclusive chat about his music, touring and inspirations.
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Louis Vuitton shirt, jacket, and pants; Audemars Piguet watch.
Julian Dakdouk
What does it mean to you to be on the cover of Billboard as a solo artist?
Growing up, Billboard seemed like a completely different universe to me. I’d follow the charts to see where my favorite artists landed, and that’s how I got a sense of the era’s musical flow and what sounds were defining each moment. So having my own music recognized by Billboard still feels surreal and exciting. To me, Billboard remains a dreamlike presence, and the amazing thing is, that dream is still unfolding, much like my song, “Sweet Dreams.”
You’re widely regarded as a symbol of hope — not only for your fans, but also for many Asian artists globally. How does it feel to have that kind of impact?
Just as I drew inspiration from the artists I admired growing up, shaping my own music through their influence, I’d be honored if my work could inspire others and pass on that same positive energy — that would mean the world to me. Above all, I hope to continue growing into an artist who brings light and encouragement to others wherever I go.
Louis Vuitton jacket and pants, Audemars Piguet watch.
Julian Dakdouk
Is there a particular message you want to convey with this tour?
Embracing my identity as j-hope, I found myself reflecting more deeply on the true essence of hope. I realized it’s not something to be taken lightly, so I wanted to channel that sincerity into my music and bring it to life through Hope on the Stage, sharing it with as many people as possible. I was hands-on with everything — stage design, choreography, fashion and even the props — pouring my heart into every aspect. I hope the audience left with a sense of genuine positivity and inspiration. Moving forward, I want to keep creating authentic performances that unite everyone through the power of music.
You made history in April as the first South Korean male solo artist to headline a U.S. stadium. How did that feel?
Having performed at countless stadiums with BTS, I was always part of a seven-member team filling the stage. This time, I was on my own, and honestly, I wondered if I could handle that immense energy and pressure by myself. But I pulled it off and that means a lot to me — it’s a milestone I’ll always cherish.
Louis Vuitton shirt, jacket, pants and shoes; Audemars Piguet watch.
Julian Dakdouk
You’re often hailed as a fashion icon. What ignited your love of style?
Ever since I was young, I’ve had a genuine passion for clothes. I don’t really see myself as a fashionista — I just have a deep, genuine love for fashion. To me, clothing is a powerful way to express my identity. Even during BTS world tours, I’d make time to visit local boutiques and explore different styles, which really helped shape my personal aesthetic over time. For my solo world tour, I handpicked every outfit for each performance, ensuring every look was distinct. I believe my approach to fashion adds a fun, dynamic element for fans to enjoy while watching my shows.
Your recent single, “Mona Lisa,” debuted at No. 65 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was released in March two weeks after your Miguel collaboration, “Sweet Dreams.” What’s the story behind these tracks?
I believe my music should evolve as I grow. Before my enlistment, I leaned into my roots in dance, experimenting with a variety of sounds to express different facets of myself. But just a week after my discharge, I headed straight to the U.S. because I wanted to explore how the American producers I admire would interpret my sound. “Sweet Dreams” featuring Miguel — an artist I’ve long respected — has a smooth, soulful vibe that feels deeply personal. On the other hand, “Mona Lisa” brings a hip-hop-driven performance energy. Both tracks are easy to connect with, yet they offer a glimpse into the broader, more evolved musical world I’m building. This is just the start — I have plenty more musical experiments in store.
This story appears in the May 17, 2025, issue of Billboard.
Best known as a dancer, rapper and singer-songwriter in BTS, j-hope has long stood out, with a magnetic stage presence and captivating dance moves that helped propel the group to global stardom. Now — as ARMY around the world anticipate the group’s remaining members completing South Korea’s mandatory military service and BTS reuniting in June, […]
Billboard cover star j-hope sits down to share his experience with ‘HOPE ON THE STAGE,’ the kind of music he hopes to create after completing his military service, his collaborations with J. Cole and Miguel, the artists he hopes to work with in the future, and more! j-hope: ‘HOPE ON THE STAGE’ is exactly what […]
The FBI is doubling its reward for tips leading to the arrest of a handful of escaped prisoners from a New Orleans prison. Last week, 10 prisoners made a brazen nighttime escape from the Orleans Justice Center, and authorities are combing New Orleans and beyond as they look to apprehend the remaining seven escapees.
The FBI’s New Orleans office issued a media alert regarding the 10 escapees from the Orleans Justice Center on May 16.
From the FBI New Orleans website:
At the request of the New Orleans Police Department, FBI New Orleans has surged resources to assist with apprehending inmates who escaped from the Orleans Parish Jail on May 16, 2025. The FBI routinely offers assistance to our law enforcement partners, to provide additional manpower and specialized resources.
In addition, the FBI is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for tips leading to the arrest of any of the inmates.
As reported by local outlet WDSU, Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson, who is up for reelection, is facing heavy criticism from residents and others regarding the escape. During a press conference, Sheriff Hutson suggested that the inmates may have been helped by someone who works for the Orleans Parish Police Department.
The outlet adds that three employees of the Orleans Justice Center were placed on suspension as an investigation takes place.
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Photo: WDSU
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Ahead of their reunion tour slated for this fall, Minus The Bear will reissue their sophomore album, 2005’s Menos el Oso, to commemorate the album’s 20th anniversary. The beloved Seattle indie band unveiled the deluxe vinyl release, as well as the demo version of the track “Hooray,” on Tuesday (May 20), with the reissue scheduled […]
Avex Music Group (AMG) announced on Tuesday (May 20) that it has signed fast-rising producer Elkan to a global publishing deal. Additionally, AMG has partnered with Elkan on his JV publishing company, Toibox by Elkan. Under the new deal, Elkan’s catalog, including previous works and future output, will be published through AMG. Already this year, […]
Grab your synthesizer, pink wig and star earrings – Jem is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. To commemorate four decades of Jem and the Holograms, Hasbro is releasing a new album of Jem and the Holograms songs.
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The series – which ran from 1985-1988 and inspired Jon M. Chu’s live action 2015 film Jem and the Holograms – combined music, sci-fi and a storyline that more than like inspired Hannah Montana (Jem is the secret rock star alter ego of Jerrica Benton). The show’s ’80s fashion was truly outrageous (truly, truly, truly outrageous) and its glimmering synth-pop tunes were, as the Jem theme song promised, undeniably “contagious.”
Billboard can reveal that in July, a 40th anniversary album for Jem will come out on vinyl and digital streaming platforms via Hasbro. The project includes six re-recorded tracks from the ‘80s series, held down by the original singing voice of Jem, Britta Phillips.
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“Seriously, I was thrilled to be asked to sing these songs again,” Phillips tells Billboard. “I had listened to and sang many Jem songs at Jemcon last year, so they were very fresh in my mind. And I’m so excited for the Jem fans to hear them.”
Those six songs are the Jem theme song, “Only The Beginning,” “Truly Outrageous,” “Like A Dream,” “I Got My Eye On You” and “She’s Got The Power.” You can listen to “Jem and the Holograms Theme (Reimagined)” right now thanks to a glamor and glitter, fashion and fame-filled music video below.
Listening to the reimagined theme song, it’s hard to believe this is Phillips’ voice four decades later – she sounds almost exactly the same as she did on the O.G. series. That’s especially impressive when you spin her post-Jem music, such as her 2016 album Luck or Magic, which found her adopting a more mature, dreamy vocal tone. But it seems that the spirit of Jem was still inside her, ready to return (even without the help of supercomputer Synergy).
“I took a couple of voice lessons before the recording sessions which helped with my confidence in belting those crazy high notes, but luckily the sound of my voice and my vocal range hasn’t changed much. It’s still pretty girlish,” Phillips tells Billboard. “To my surprise, the high notes weren’t difficult. We even kept the songs in the original key except for one track where we dropped down a half step – and that one didn’t have the highest notes. The biggest challenge was singing at such fast tempos (the original tempos), but it was very exciting and nostalgic for me, and I had a blast! And working with these amazing and talented producers (all female!) was inspiring,” she adds, tipping to the female-led team behind this anniversary album.
Of the re-recorded songs, Phillips says “Only the Beginning” – a song that appeared in the series pilot, which aired Oct. 6, 1985 – was “the most emotional one to sing. It brought me back to my beginning and so it felt like a full circle of my life from the very beginning of my musical career to the present.”
Phillips says returning to “She’s Got the Power” was also exciting for her. “It felt much like it did when I first recorded those songs, except now I know those little kids I sang to are all grown up! Makes me a little teary.”
