Estate of Michael Jackson Condemns Sexyy Red Over Alleged ‘Beat It’ Sample
The Estate of Michael Jackson says it is “deeply disappointed” by what it calls the unauthorized use of elements from the late pop icon’s 1982 hit “Beat It” in a newly released remix by rapper Sexyy Red. In a statement to Billboard, representatives said Jackson’s music “is protected by copyright and by a legacy that is carefully managed to honor his artistic vision,” adding that the sampling and alteration “undermines that legacy and violates the rights of the Estate.”
The estate emphasized it has “zero tolerance” for unlicensed uses of Jackson’s recordings and is reviewing “all available legal remedies.” Representatives said they will “take appropriate action to protect Michael’s intellectual property and preserve the integrity of his work,” though it remains unclear whether a formal lawsuit or takedown notices have been filed.
Clips of the remix, reportedly titled “Just Eat It,” began circulating online after Lil Yachty shared studio footage of Sexyy Red recording the track. The reworked version, featuring explicit lyrics, sparked backlash across social media, with some fans invoking Jackson’s own catalog (including “They Don’t Really Care About Us”) to criticize the remix. The estate reiterated that every decision it makes is guided by preserving Jackson’s artistry for future generations.
Produced by actress/singer Cynthia Erivo and her longtime collaborator/composer Scott Alan, rising, independent R&B singer/songwriter Tamera returns with her new single, “Anything Worth Holding Onto.” The melodic yet emotionally charged track explores resilience in the face of life’s trials and tribulations, highlighting both vulnerability and strength. Blending soul, sensuality, and unwavering determination, Tamera’s powerful vocals anchor the song with striking conviction. With a release this compelling track, we’re eager to hear what she has in store for 2026.
Arizona-based pop/soul singer SheIsHerName joins forces with Kansas City rapper C,W, Da Youngblood for the remix of “Oh My God,” an airy, infectious single that pairs smooth melodies with brash, unapologetic lyrics about love, lust, and relationship goals. The track follows SheIsHerName's eclectic remix project, More Than A Vibe: The Remixes, released last year, and continues to showcase her versatility and growing artistic confidence. Indeed, if she keeps delivering bangers like this, 2026 is shaping up to be a breakthrough year for the rising star
Jamaican reggae sensation Mavado returns to his “Gully Side” roots with “Bad & BBC Rich,” his first release of 2026 and a standout on the WYFL riddim produced by DJ Mac and CrashDummy. The hard-hitting track finds the dancehall star revisiting the wealth-and-status persona that defined his catalog. Directed by TopShootah, the official video marks his first shoot in over a decade in Cassava Piece, St. Andrew. The release follows his October 2025 return to Jamaica after years away.
Milwaukee rapper DC The Don brings high energy and melodic aggression to The Rumors Are True. The album blends rap, alternative textures and emotional confession, with vocals shifting between sharp flows and sing-song hooks effortlessly. Its charged, youthful production fuels relentless pacing, keeping the project bold and expressive. Now signed to Republic Records, he launches a refined era with “Lie2Me,” produced byLouieOTKand samplingReal Lifebyear. FromSoundCloudbeginnings to genre-blurring ambition, he remains a chameleon in control.
Bruno Mars returns with his first album in a decade, The Romantic, available now, and celebrates with the new video for “Risk It All.” Directed by Mars and Daniel Ramos, the visual shows him fronting a mariachi band, getting married, and basking in domestic bliss. Backed by promises like “For just a chance to win your heart,” the clip captures romance and devotion, as Mars vows to do anything love asks. It follows his hit single “I Just Might” and continues his captivating return.
Oliver “Power” Grant, a pivotal force behind the rise of the Wu-Tang Clan and architect of its business empire, has died of unknown causes at 52. News of his passing was first reported by Okayplayer. The group paid tribute on Instagram, writing, “Rest in Power, Power,” while member Method Man added, “Paradise my Brother safe Travels!! … Bruh I am not ok.” Grant grew up in Staten Island’s Park Hill projects alongside the future members of the Wu-Tang Clan. In 1992, he helped finance their debut single, “Protect Ya Neck,” and the following year served as executive producer on their landmark album, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers). Describing himself as “more the financial guy,” Grant said much of their early success came through trial and error and relentless determination. Beyond music, Grant founded the Wu Wear clothing line, transforming the group’s logo into a global brand. Under his leadership, Wu Wear secured a deal with Macy's, opened four retail stores nationwide, and reportedly grossed $25 million annually at its peak. Grant was later portrayed by Marcus Callender in the Wu-Tang: An American Saga, cementing his legacy as a driving force behind one of hip-hop’s most influential dynasties.
Dutch singer Natalie La Rose returns with her empowering new single “Not Nice,” featuring Benjamin Fayah and SHAYE. Dedicated to her motherland Suriname in celebration of 50 years of independence, the track reflects her journey of self-discovery and cultural pride. Heavily promoted across YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, “Not Nice” marks a bold new chapter following her 2015 breakout hit “Somebody,” uniting listeners through heritage and strength.
Rising Nigerian singer Ayo Maff delivers inspiration on his new single “God Is Working,” a heartfelt anthem about faith, patience, and perseverance. Blending relatable storytelling with warm, uplifting production, the track reflects on the challenges he has faced while expressing gratitude for his growth. With confident vocals and hopeful lyrics, Ayo Maff reminds listeners that even in difficult seasons, progress is happening behind the scenes and, in time, everything will settle.
After a five-year wait following his last full-length project The Melodic Blue, West-coast rapper/producer Baby Keem returns with CA$INO, an 11-track statement defined by focus and emotional honesty. Shedding excess, he favors precision over sprawl, crafting tightly wound songs that each inhabit their own sonic universe, from glitchy 8-bit textures to smooth West Coast funk. The album dives deep into personal trauma, grief, poverty, racism, and fractured family ties, most strikingly on “I Am Not a Lyricist.” Yet it balances heaviness with charisma on “Circus Circus Free$tyle” and “$ex Appeal.” Standout cut “Good Flirts” pairs Keem with Kendrick Lamar and Momo Boyd of Infinity Song, blending razor-sharp bars with luminous harmonies for a dynamic, memorable collaboration.
Atlanta’s own Jai'Len Josey brings playful power and sensual confidence to the video for “Housewife,” the bold new single from her upcoming debut album Serial Romantic. Released via Def Jam, the sultry visual mirrors the song’s cinematic strings and glossy R&B groove, showing Jai’Len shifting from traditional “housewife” duties like ironing to dancing and singing with commanding self-assurance. The video underscores her message of reclaiming domesticity on her own terms, where submission is a choice, romance is intentional, and modern love is fully in her control.