C+C Music Factory co-founder Robert Clivillés has filed a federal lawsuit against longtime creative partner Frederick “Freedom” Williams, alleging that Williams improperly used the group’s name for decades. The nine-count complaint, filed August 14 in the Eastern District of New York, seeks at least $10 million in compensatory damages, with potential treble damages under the Lanham Act increasing the trademark-related claim to $30 million. Clivillés is also seeking punitive damages and an injunction preventing further unauthorized use of the name. At the center of the dispute is ownership of the C+C Music Factory name. According to the complaint, the initials refer specifically to Clivillés and the late David Cole, who formed the group in New York City in 1990. Clivillés claims an estate settlement agreement reached with Cole’s estate in 1996 made him the sole authorized user of the C+C Music Factory name and brand. The lawsuit characterizes Williams as a featured performer rather than a founder or co-owner, noting that several other vocalists also contributed to the group’s recordings. The complaint alleges that Williams began performing as C+C Music Factory without Clivillés’ authorization after pursuing a solo career, eventually earning thousands of dollars per performance. Clivillés is asking the court to cancel a C+C Music Factory trademark currently held by Williams’ company, Freedom Williams Entertainment LLC. The lawsuit also cites a June 2026 recording, “Into the Future,” as an example of alleged unauthorized use. The nine claims include trademark infringement, fraud, unfair competition, unjust enrichment, defamation and breach of contract.

Beyoncé is remembering Dolly Parton as an influential force who encouraged generations to embrace their individuality. Following Parton’s death at age 80, the “Cowboy Carter” singer shared an emotional tribute on her website, describing the country legend as “bold and brilliant” and “the north star.” Beyoncé praised Parton’s impact through music, philanthropy, humor and business, while reflecting on the lessons she taught about being unapologetically yourself. The two artists famously collaborated on Beyoncé’s 2024 album Cowboy Carter, with Parton appearing on the project and introducing Beyoncé’s reimagined version of her classic song “Jolene.” Reflecting on their collaboration, Beyoncé expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with the country icon and praised the joy Parton brought to the world through her art. She concluded her message by calling Parton “truly one of one” and wishing her a peaceful rest. Parton died Tuesday at 80 following a brief battle with cancer, according to reports. Her representatives said she was surrounded by loved ones at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville. Beyoncé is among numerous celebrities paying tribute to the beloved entertainer, with Reba McEntire, Jane Fonda, Kacey Musgraves and Sabrina Carpenter also honoring Parton’s remarkable career, generosity and lasting cultural legacy.

Independent R&B and Southern soul artist B Streezy teams up with Grammy-winning vocalist Anthony Hamilton on “Love Ya Down,” a soulful, feel-good single produced by Roi “Chip” Anthony. Built around Chip’s signature Mohitz Sound, the track delivers a deep, swinging groove with a Southern Swingout feel. Inspired by Gregory Abbott’s classic 1986 single “Shake You Down,” the song blends R&B and Southern soul into a smooth, danceable release designed for stepping and laid-back listening.

Jada Kingdom and Shaneil Muir team up on “Tears,” a moody dancehall ballad produced by Yo Christon that blends modern dancehall with rock-inspired guitar. Both artists reflect on heartbreak, red flags, and relationships gone wrong while embracing independence and self-worth. Rather than dwelling on pain, the “wicked gyal” anthem finds them choosing themselves, delivering an unapologetic message of confidence and empowerment.

Multi-Platinum recording artist Romeo Miller has released his highly anticipated double album New Lane, marking a new chapter after more than two decades in the music industry. Released through SRG-ILS Group/PK Carter Music, the project introduces a fresh musical direction for the multi-hyphenate artist. The album was preceded by two singles, “Selfie,” an affirmation-focused track, and “Doin Something,” featuring singer and actor Trevor Jackson. With New Lane, Miller aims to showcase his artistic growth while highlighting a renewed creative vision and direction in his music.

Swae Lee shares the official video for “SUITCASE,” featuring French Montana and taken from his debut solo album, SAME DIFFERENCE. The collaboration reunites the artists following their Diamond-certified hit “Unforgettable.” Directed by Austin McCracken, the video finds Swae working at “Swae Airlines” before opening a flagged suitcase and entering a dreamlike world of designer fashion and Northern Lights. Filled with energetic visuals, the video complements the song’s celebration of luxury, travel, and lavish living while highlighting both artists’ charisma.

Swiss-based emerging R&B/soul artist NNAVY brings intimacy and vulnerability to “Late Nights,” featured on her debut album, I’ll Wait For You. Set inside her apartment after dark, the video captures NNAVY dancing, grooving, and calling her partner to come over while singing about the temptations of late-night encounters. Soulful and candid, lyrically the track also explores vulnerability and the challenges women can face in dating, confronting societal biases around race, body image, desire, and visibility.

Japanese-Korean-American indie pop artist Tiger La Flor releases her highly anticipated HOLLYWOODLAND EP via Arista Records, introducing her “Laurel Canyon Western” sound. The project blends vintage orchestration, shimmering pop harmonies, western guitars, and mariachi influences while exploring the glamour, humor, heartbreak, and illusions of Los Angeles dating. The title track offers cinematic storytelling, while the hit single “KODACHROMATIC” has gone viral, inspiring posts about La Flor’s parents’ love story that have surpassed 37 million social media views.

South African R&B artist Lordkez is set to release her new single “4SHO,” featuring acclaimed South Africa rapper Kwesta, following her Best R&B/Soul Album win at the 2026 South African Music Awards. The track follows her breakout hit “Aweh,” which was the country’s most-played song on radio between September and December 2025 and has since earned Gold certification. “4SHO” blends lordkez’s contemporary R&B style with Kwesta’s hip-hop influence, drawing from her “Neo Nostalgia” concept of classic R&B and modern African sounds.