Diamond Platnumz feat. Focalistic, Uncool MC, Silas Africa & Xduppy - "Sasampa"

Tanzanian artist Diamond Platnumz’s “Sasampa” is a vibrant Amapiano anthem that celebrates the power of African collaboration. Featuring rappers/singers Focalistic, Uncool MC, Silas Africa, and Xduppy, the track blends lush rhythms, soulful energy, and cultural fusion. Released ;ast month, it stands out as a true party starter and a shining example of how diverse African sounds continue to unite artists and audiences across the continent.

By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
RUBII returns with Feeluh, a captivating new EP that cements her place as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary R&B. Blending neo-soul, and alt-pop textures, the UK artist delivers intimate, harmonizing vocals that feel both nostalgic and modern.Feeluhexplores themes of sudden success, growth, and betrayal with grounded, conversational lyricism. Following over 250 million streams, breakout singles like “Twin Flames,” and a buzzworthy Glastonbury performance, RUBII steps boldly into her next chapter with the confident, self-assured lead track “Confidence.”
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Elijah Blake unveils the stirring video for “Shouldn’t Wanna Call,” a raw, late-night confession that finds the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter caught between closure and longing. Floating over lush production, his vocals trace the ache of letting go while still clinging to memories of a love that shaped him. As the third single from his upcoming album THE GEMINI, the track deepens Blake’s exploration of emotional duality, following the soulful singles “White Rum” and “Work It Out.”
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Buffalo emcee-producer Che Noir teams up with fellow Buffalo rapper 7xvethegenius for the “Not Me” official music video, delivering sharp, uncompromising bars over Chup’s gritty, mid-’90s–inspired production. The track showcases both artists’ layered verses, driven by heart, hustle, and unwavering vision. Serving as a powerful glimpse into their highly anticipated collaborative album, the record highlights why Che Noir and 7xvethegenius are considered two of the strongest voices in rap today.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Kah-Lo returns from a brief sabbatical with “Somersaults,” a retro-tinged, energetic single that showcases her singular voice and emotional honesty. Known for hits like “Fake ID,” the Grammy-nominated Nigerian house artist steps into a more vulnerable era, exploring the disorienting pull of affection and the ways it can push us beyond our usual limits. With playful yet expressive vocals, she turns heartache into something bold, fun, and ultimately empowering.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
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By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Rhona Bennett has officially announced her departure from En Vogue, just five days after the group performed at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony without her. Bennett, 49, said she learned of the Nov. 8 performance at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater only after fans contacted her about her absence. The group appeared onstage with Salt-N-Pepa for “Whatta Man,” yet Bennett—who had a separate event scheduled that day—said she was never informed the performance was taking place. Bennett described the experience as a moment of clarity and said it contributed to her decision to step into what she called a “new season of creativity, freedom, and contribution.” Her departure follows a year of shifting dynamics within the group, including the February return of founding member Maxine Jones, who reunited with Terry Ellis, Cindy Herron, and Bennett for a four-member configuration earlier in 2025. Jones’ appearance at the Hall of Fame ceremony in Bennett’s absence drew additional attention, particularly given the group’s long history of lineup changes.  During her 22 years with En Vogue, Bennett contributed to the albums Soul Flower (2004) and Electric Café (2018), and performed with the group at major events including the 2020 Billboard Music Awards and the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. She also maintained a thriving career outside the group, founding Personal Power University and releasing her second solo album, Instant Classic, in 2024. With Bennett’s exit, En Vogue continues as a trio of founding members Ellis and Herron alongside the recently returned Jones—reviving speculation about the possibility of a full reunion with original member Dawn Robinson.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Paris Jackson’s effort to challenge the handling of her late father Michael Jackson’s estate encountered a setback after a Los Angeles court struck key portions of her petition. On Nov. 10, retired judge and specially appointed referee Mitchell L. Beckloff granted a motion from estate executors John Branca and John McClain, ruling that several claims in Paris’ filing targeted documents protected under California’s anti-SLAPP statute. The decision leaves her responsible for some of the estate’s attorney fees. The dispute centers on concerns Paris first raised in July 2025, including irregular “premium” payments to estate attorneys and slow, inconsistent financial filings she argued limited transparency for beneficiaries such as herself and brothers Bigi and Prince. While Beckloff struck claims involving protected filings, he left intact allegations tied to irregular approvals and procedural clarity. A spokesperson for Paris emphasized that the ruling was “limited to minor procedural issues” and said she intends to submit an updated petition. Executors Branca and McClain have defended their stewardship of Michael Jackson’s estimated $2 billion estate, noting they inherited massive debts but have since produced substantial profits for beneficiaries—claiming Paris alone has received around $65 million. With the court’s ruling, the executors maintain broad control over estate operations, even as the surviving elements of Paris’ petition allow for limited review. The dispute continues as major projects tied to the pop icon’s legacy move forward, including licensing deals and the highly anticipated biopic Michael.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 17, 2025
Emmy-nominated filmmaker Chris Moukarbel has begun production on a new documentary chronicling the life and career of 13-time Grammy winner Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds. Backed by HarbourView Equity Partners and produced alongside Kenya Barris, the film promises an intimate look at one of the most influential songwriters and producers in modern music. Moukarbel, known for Gaga: Five Foot Two , is leading the project as it captures Babyface at a reflective point in his career. The documentary will feature exclusive, in-depth interviews with Babyface as he discusses the highs and lows of navigating the music industry over five decades. He will explore his songwriting and producing process, offering rare insight into the creation of some of his most iconic work. The film also goes behind the scenes of his collaborations with a star-studded roster, including Whitney Houston, Toni Braxton, Bobby Brown, Eric Clapton, Mary J. Blige, Michael Jackson, Boyz II Men (who thanks to TLC's Chilli, had to clear up some misinformation regarding their business relationship with Babyface), Mariah Carey, Madonna, Beyoncé, Lil Wayne, and SZA. In addition to Babyface’s own reflections, the documentary will include commentary from many of his key collaborators and feature behind-the-scenes and concert footage from his upcoming shows at The Palms in Las Vegas. With its blend of personal storytelling, archival material, and industry insights, the project aims to deliver the most comprehensive portrait yet of the artist whose songs have defined generations of R&B and pop music.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 14, 2025
Justin Radford, a Clarksville, Tennessee singer, songwriter, and producer whose church upbringing and influences like Kirk Franklin and Pharrell. offers up his new holiday single, “The Greatest Gift,” while deliveromg a heartfelt reminder that Jesus is the true reason for the season.
By Status Ain't Hood Staff November 14, 2025
Jacquees drops his new single “Let You Go” featuring K Camp, a smooth preview of his upcoming album Mood 2. Blending silky R&B with Amapiano grooves, the track showcases his vocal finesse over deep percussion and hypnotic rhythms. The Atlanta duo continues their hitmaking streak, while Jacquees builds on the success ofBaby Making, which topped the iTunes R&B/Soul charts.
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