Nigerian rapper, singer, and songwriter Ice Prince makes a compelling return with Testimony of Grace, a project that underscores his growth, resilience, and lasting impact in African hip-hop. Known for his smooth delivery and bar-heavy style, he reaffirms his place in the game while embracing evolution. Featuring artists like Niniola, Skiibii, Ria Sean, Sinzu, and Medikal, the album blends Afrobeats, rap, and contemporary sounds. Reflective yet forward-looking, it mirrors his personal journey, faith, and gratitude.

In preparation for their debut album Legacy (set for release on August 14), contemporary R&B and soul trio The Womack Sisters have unveiled the new single and video for “Chauffeur.” Directed by Shauna Presto, the visual leans into a classic, old-school feel, with the trio performing in a car and a lounge setting while showcasing their rich, powerful vocals as the video complements the song’s core message of perseverance and resilience.

Taken from her forthcoming album new avatar (out July 10), Kelela unveils the visual for “linknb,” directed by Mischa Notcutt. The video takes viewers on a stylish tour through New York City, blending sleek, contemporary imagery with an understated, old-school sensibility as Kelela delivers a captivating performance. Like much of her catalog, “linknb” feels simultaneously futuristic, alien, and nostalgic. Built around a minimalist backdrop of guitars and drums, the track allows her voice to take center stage, transforming a simple arrangement into something that feels like a genuine revelation.

Marking the recent 10th anniversary of his passing, Prince is honored with the release of an unheard version of “With This Tear.” Shared via his official YouTube channel, the track is part of a planned rollout of 10 previously unreleased songs this year. Recorded at Paisley Park in November 1991, the tender, piano-driven ballad features Prince performing every instrument. Newly mixed and mastered by Grammy-nominated producer Chris James, the release highlights the icon’s enduring artistry and legacy.

Toronto-based R&B alternative singer and songwriter Elyssa Plaza returns with her new single “Charm,” a smooth yet emotionally charged track that confronts heartache and the frustration of dealing with someone who plays games with your heart. Blending traditional R&B with contemporary production, the song features mellow beats, lush instrumentation, and her expressive vocals. Produced by Troy Jahara and Chris Chand, “Charm” highlights Elyssa’s ability to turn vulnerability into a captivating, modern sound.

Taraji P. Henson and Jenifer Lewis have publicly criticized the 2026 Met Gala, questioning celebrity attendance due to its ties to Jeff Bezos. Lewis, in a passionate Instagram video, condemned attendees by highlighting layoffs, funding cuts, and broader social issues, even delivering her critique through song. Henson echoed the sentiment online, expressing disbelief over those choosing to attend. With Bezos and Lauren Sánchez serving as honorary co-chairs alongside stars like Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, and Venus Williams, the backlash extends beyond fashion. Both actresses framed the issue as a moral question, challenging whether celebrating such an event is appropriate given its controversial associations.

Chris Brown is celebrating a major personal milestone while also addressing unrelated legal headlines surrounding his home. The two-time Grammy-winning R&B star has welcomed his fourth child—his first with influencer Jada Wallace. Wallace announced the news on Instagram with a series of photos revealing her pregnancy and the newborn, captioned “Purest love,” while Brown commented “Taurus Gang,” noting the shared zodiac sign with his May 5 birthday. His mother, Joyce Hawkins, also confirmed the baby is a boy, calling him “perfect.” Brown is already father to three children from previous relationships. At the same time, Brown has distanced himself from a recent security incident that occurred at his Tarzana residence. According to reports, a member of his security team was involved in a confrontation with a woman late last week who allegedly refused to leave the property, escalating into an incident that led to the guard’s arrest. The security staffer has since been dismissed, and the situation remains under investigation. Brown responded on Instagram, pushing back against any connection to the event and expressing frustration over being linked to the situation. “I been in my rib this whole time,” he wrote, adding that he had no awareness of the incident and demanding his name not be attached to it.

A decade after Insecure debuted, Issa Rae says Hollywood is slipping backward on diversity. She describes the industry as being in an “identity crisis,” with studios prioritizing social media creators over meaningful storytelling, making it harder for women of color to get projects made. Rae revealed that even executives of color are hesitant to support diverse voices out of fear for their jobs amid shifting attitudes toward DEI. Reflecting on her start with Awkward Black Girl, she noted that representation remains limited despite past progress. Rae added that creators now feel pressure to reframe stories to appeal to broader themes just to secure funding 

Damson Idris is set to star in and executive produce The Lords’ Day, an upcoming series for Netflix. Adapted from the novel by Michael Dobbs, the story centers on a British spy trapped inside Parliament during a high-stakes lockdown on the State Opening day. As tensions rise, loyalties are tested and survival becomes uncertain. The six-episode thriller will be written by Sam Vincent and Jonathan Brackley, with Ben Chanan directing. Idris, who rose to prominence on Snowfall, continues to build momentum with major upcoming roles, including portraying Miles Davis in a future biopic, further cementing his growing presence in film and television.