Next Level Energy Group is taking a major step forward in its evolution with the launch of Next Level Energy Studios, a media, content, and brand innovation platform designed to connect brands, creators, athletes, entrepreneurs, and communities through impactful storytelling and experiences. Built on the belief that today’s most successful brands actively participate in culture rather than simply advertise within it, Next Level Energy Studios will serve as the company’s hub for original content creation, strategic partnerships, live events, and community-driven initiatives spanning music, sports, entertainment, technology, and lifestyle. As part of this expansion, Next Level Energy Group has established strategic relationships with leading media, entertainment, and cultural platforms—including HOT 97—to help amplify its message and engage audiences through authentic experiences and meaningful storytelling. Evolving From an Energy Brand to a Lifestyle Platform The launch of Next Level Energy Studios marks a significant milestone in the company’s long-term growth strategy. While Next Level Energy continues to strengthen its position within the energy beverage industry, the company recognizes that modern consumers increasingly connect with brands through shared experiences, cultural relevance, and engaging content. Next Level Energy Studios was created to bridge that gap by serving as the company’s dedicated platform for cultural engagement, content development, partnership opportunities, and audience growth. The vision is simple: build a brand ecosystem that extends far beyond retail shelves and becomes an active participant in the conversations, communities, and experiences that shape modern culture. Strategic Partnerships Driving Cultural Impact Through collaborations with influential media organizations, artists, creators, athletes, entrepreneurs, and event platforms, Next Level Energy Studios will develop programs and experiences that directly connect with consumers. These initiatives will include: Original digital content and branded entertainment Music and cultural partnerships Community engagement programs Experiential activations and live events Athlete and creator collaborations Technology-driven storytelling initiatives A key component of this strategy includes participation in major cultural moments and events. Through partnerships surrounding platforms such as HOT 97 and events like HOT 97 Summer Jam 2026, Next Level Energy Studios will create opportunities for experiential marketing, audience engagement, and original storytelling that resonate with consumers. These partnerships are designed to strengthen brand awareness, expand audience reach, and position Next Level Energy as a lifestyle-driven company with a meaningful presence in culture. Core Areas of Focus Content & Media Next Level Energy Studios will develop original digital content, branded entertainment, podcasts, editorial storytelling, and multimedia experiences designed to engage audiences across multiple platforms. Music & Culture The studio will support artists, creators, and cultural initiatives through strategic partnerships, event activations, content collaborations, and original programming. Sports & Community By partnering with athletes, organizations, and community leaders, Next Level Energy Studios will create experiences that celebrate athletic achievement, wellness, entrepreneurship, and positive community impact. Brand Innovation The platform will collaborate with brands, creators, and organizations to develop authentic campaigns, sponsorship opportunities, and experiential activations that drive engagement and deliver measurable value. Technology & Emerging Platforms Next Level Energy Studios will continue exploring innovative technologies and emerging platforms that enhance storytelling, audience engagement, and content distribution. Building a Brand Through Culture The future of consumer brands lies at the intersection of product, content, and community. Next Level Energy Studios was built to create deeper connections with audiences by combining compelling storytelling, strategic partnerships, and culturally relevant experiences. Through this approach, the company aims to strengthen brand affinity, expand its audience, and create long-term value for both consumers and partners. Rather than simply marketing products, Next Level Energy Studios seeks to become an active contributor to the culture that influences and inspires its audience. Looking Ahead The launch of Next Level Energy Studios represents the next chapter in the growth of Next Level Energy Group. With a focus on innovation, storytelling, strategic partnerships, and cultural engagement, the studio will serve as a platform that brings together brands, creators, athletes, entrepreneurs, and communities through experiences that inspire, entertain, and create lasting impact. As the company continues to expand, collaborations with organizations such as HOT 97, major events like HOT 97 Summer Jam 2026, and other influential cultural platforms will help amplify the Next Level mission while creating meaningful opportunities for audiences and partners alike.

Drake’s weekend in Houston unfolded in a way that felt less like a planned rollout and more like a series of overlapping stops across familiar rooms in the city. On Father’s Day, he was seen at a nightclub alongside his father, Dennis Graham, marking the occasion in a public setting that blended celebration with routine visibility. The following night, he returned to the same space for a separate gathering honoring his associate Chubbs. The atmosphere shifted slightly with each appearance, shaped as much by the crowd as by the company he kept. Bun B’s presence at the second night added another layer of local significance to the evening. At one point, attention turned to a clip that quickly circulated online, showing Drake and Bun B rapping along to Z-Ro’s “Mo City Don.” As always, Drake brings everyone together through music, both as an artist and a fan. The song, deeply rooted in Houston’s musical identity, carried a different weight in that setting, less as a performance and more as a shared reference point. It was a brief moment, but one that reflected how regional records continue to travel through new contexts. Drake’s engagement with Houston fits into a longer pattern in his career, where he has often aligned himself with regional sounds and scenes across the United States. Over the years, he has made similar gestures toward Atlanta, the West Coast, and Florida, each time folding local influence into his broader public presence. The weekend did not mark a shift in that approach so much as another instance of it playing out in real time. Drake in the club rapping to Z-Ro’s Mo City Don Freestyle with Bun B pic.twitter.com/II9iOt1e0X — Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod (@big_business_) June 23, 2026 ICEMAN Holds Strong on Charts as Houston Weekend Steadies His Run Outside of Houston, his latest album, ICEMAN, remains active on the charts. The project has reached platinum eligibility and spent several weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 before moving to No. 2, currently trailing Olivia Rodrigo. Moreover, the album highlights how Drake consistently shapes the music charts with each new release. Its performance has kept it in steady rotation, even as newer releases enter the chart cycle. The commercial response arrives at a moment when conversations around his recent output have been especially visible. While opinions around longevity and momentum have varied, the numbers suggest continued demand across platforms for someone like Drake. In Houston, the weekend ultimately settled into something understated: a mix of public appearances, familiar collaborators, and music that linked the present moment back to earlier points in his career, further securing the influence of Drake on the city’s cultural scene.

Authorities in Crisp County, Georgia, arrested hip-hop media figure Benzino on June 9 following a traffic stop. According to officials, it escalated beyond an initial speeding violation. WALB News 10 reported that officers with the Arabi Police Department pulled the vehicle over on Interstate 75. They did so after it was allegedly recorded traveling 91 miles per hour in a 70 mph zone. What began as a routine stop, according to the incident report, soon widened in scope. The report states that officers also discovered Benzino was operating the vehicle with a driver’s license deemed invalid. He reportedly attributed the issue to child support-related complications. However, a subsequent check of records indicated the suspension was tied to multiple violations. That discrepancy, authorities noted, became part of the broader inquiry documented during the stop. As officers continued their interaction, they reported detecting the smell of marijuana inside the vehicle. Benzino acknowledged the odor and cooperated with the search. He assisted officers in locating a bag in the driver’s side door. A second bag was later recovered near passenger Ruth Lewis. She told authorities the substance belonged to her, according to the report. Benzino Faces Speeding and Drug Charges Following Georgia Traffic Stop Both Benzino and Lewis were taken into custody and transported to Crisp County Jail, where they were booked on charges including speeding and drug possession. Benzino also faces an additional charge of driving without a valid license. The vehicle’s owner, Ashley Bell, was charged with allowing an unlicensed driver to operate her car. Court records related to the case have not yet been fully released, and officials have provided limited additional detail. The matter remains active, and further updates are expected as it moves through the legal process.

Keke Palmer has officially addressed the swirling romance rumors involving “Hot Ones” creator and host Sean Evans, confirming the pair is spending time together. Speaking during a candid session with podcast host Jay Shetty at Spotify Beach 2026 on Tuesday, Palmer provided the most direct insight yet into their private connection. “First of all, I love Sean Evans. I love Sean. Hey Sean! That’s my guy,” Palmer said during the event. She explained that their relationship transitioned from a professional foundation into something deeper over several months. “We started off as colleagues; you never know what can arise from there. So we’re just taking it day by day,” she added. The public confirmation follows months of tabloid speculation and fan theories. Just days prior to her appearance in Cannes, the duo was spotted sharing a late-night meal at Lucali, a popular pizza destination in Brooklyn. Witnesses at the establishment noted that the pair stayed for roughly 90 minutes and described Evans as appearing “smitten” throughout the evening. The sparks between the actress and the professional interviewer have been visible for nearly a year. In September 2025, Palmer made history as the first person to appear on “Hot Ones” three times. During that record-setting episode, the chemistry between the host and guest was palpable, leading Palmer to jokingly propose to Evans toward the end of the segment. Evans has not been shy about his admiration for the “Nope” star. During a 2023 appearance on the “Chicken Shop Date” series, Evans named Palmer as the one interviewee he had developed a crush on, calling her a “very charming woman.” Palmer later responded to the admission by stating she “knew the vibes were vibing” during their initial meeting. The 32-year-old actress, known for her roles in “Hustlers” and “Akeelah and the Bee,” has been more open about her personal life recently after a highly publicized series of legal and personal transitions. Fans have largely championed the potential pairing, noting that both stars are respected for their work ethic and charismatic public personas. Evans also recently praised their natural rapport during a Hollywood event, describing their collaboration as a “one plus one equals three situation.” While Palmer’s comments at Spotify Beach stop short of a formal relationship announcement, they mark a significant shift from the silence both parties maintained throughout the spring. As of Tuesday afternoon, Evans has not issued a formal response to Palmer’s comments, though he has previously characterized her as one of his favorite guests in the history of his long-running YouTube series. For now, the “Big Boss” herself seems content to let the relationship develop away from the spotlight at its own pace.

For Latto, one of the more amusing surprises of motherhood has been hearing the same observation over and over again. Since welcoming her daughter, the rapper says nearly everyone in her orbit has reached the same conclusion about the child’s appearance. During a recent interview with Monica for Essence, she revealed that friends, relatives, and fans alike are convinced the baby strongly resembles her father, 21 Savage. The conversation offered a glimpse into a period of significant change for the Atlanta artist, whose fourth album, Big Mama, arrived just weeks after she embraced motherhood. While discussing her daughter, Latto joked that she has had little success arguing her side of the family’s case. As far as most people are concerned, she said, the resemblance is impossible to miss. “That just be pissing me off ‘cause I’m the one carrying her,” Latto joked. “And that’s my little girl. But I will say she’s got my dimple. She got my curls–curly girly. That’s about it right now. Definitely look like her daddy.” A Playful Prediction From Her Father, Now Echoed in Humor and Hesitation Physical features, however, are not the only similarities Latto believes may be emerging. She laughed while describing her daughter as surprisingly expressive, joking that the baby already seems eager to have her own opinions. The moment brought to mind advice her father shared before the child was born, a prediction that now feels a little more relevant. “And my daddy told me, he was like, ‘Dang, I really wanted you to have a boy, but it makes sense ‘cause she going to be your karma,’” Latto said. “And if that’s the case, just pray for me ‘cause I wasn’t the easiest out of the two.” The arrival of the baby represents a new milestone for both parents. It is Latto’s first child and the fourth for 21 Savage, who also has two sons with Keyanna Joseph and a daughter from a previous relationship. As she continues balancing family life and a busy music career, Latto has gradually shared more about that experience, including recently stating in an interview that Joseph and 21 Savage are no longer married.

For Million Tyler, the days following his father’s sentencing have been marked less by legal arguments than by the emotional reality left behind. Speaking with TMZ this week, the son of rapper Mystikal described the period since the June 15 ruling as “an emotional run” for his family. Earlier this month, Mystikal, whose legal name is Michael Tyler, received a 20-year prison sentence. He pleaded guilty to third-degree rape in March. The conviction stems from a 2022 incident at the rapper’s home in Prairieville, Louisiana. The woman involved told authorities she was sexually assaulted and was not allowed to leave until she transferred money to him through CashApp. Her account became the foundation of the case. Ultimately, these events led to the sentence handed down this month. Rather than focusing solely on his father, Million Tyler spoke about the human toll the situation has taken on everyone involved. “Nobody wins from these situations,” he said. “It’s hard for both parties if we’re being honest.” His comments reflected the complicated position of a family member. He tried to process both personal loss and the gravity of the allegations at the center of the case. @tmz Mystikal’s son says he’s hoping for the best for his father, even if he’s not quite ready to visit him in prison. TMZ’s own Charlie Neff spoke with Million Tyler just a few days after his father was sentenced to 20 years behind bars after pleading guilty to raping a woman and he said it’s been an emotional time for him and his family. MORE AT LINK IN BIO ♬ original sound – TMZ Tyler Speaks After the Verdict Tyler said he was present in court when the victim testified, listening as the events were recounted in detail. Asked whether the punishment was fair, he stopped short of offering a definitive opinion. “All I can say is it was pretty emotional to see both sides and to see it all unfolding,” he said. He added that the proceedings brought “a huge array of different emotions” for relatives trying to make sense of the outcome. Despite the upheaval, Tyler said he remains committed to moving forward with his music career and personal life. He acknowledged that any future conversation with his father may come much later. Before concluding the interview, he delivered a brief message directed toward Mystikal: “I hope you get the help you need. I really hope you do.” According to Variety, Mystikal’s attorney sought to withdraw the guilty plea shortly before sentencing. He argued that his client was experiencing emotional distress and had not fully weighed the consequences of the agreement. However, the judge denied the request. Mystikal has remained in custody since his July 2022 arrest. He will be required to register as a sex offender for life. During sentencing, after attempting to address the victim directly, he was instructed to speak to the court. He stated, “If I did that to you, I deserve the max sentence.”

Clive Davis, the legendary record executive and industry visionary who shaped the sound of popular music for more than half a century, died Monday at the age of 94. His family confirmed the news following a recent hospitalization for an upper respiratory infection that had sidelined the mogul in the weeks leading up to his death. Davis was a towering figure in the entertainment world, credited with discovering and cultivating the careers of iconic performers such as Whitney Houston, Barry Manilow, Bruce Springsteen and Alicia Keys. Throughout a career that spanned seven decades, he served as the president of Columbia Records and famously founded Arista Records and J Records, leaving an indelible mark on every genre from rock and pop to R&B and soul. Known for his signature tinted glasses and sharp business acumen, Davis possessed what many in the industry described as a “golden ear” for hits. His most famous partnership was with Whitney Houston, whom he mentored from a young gospel singer into a global superstar. He was equally pivotal for Barry Manilow, famously bringing him the song “Brandy,” which they reworked into the chart-topping classic “Mandy.” “I found, by accident, a role for music in my life that became a natural part of me and I realized I had a natural gift for discovering artists,” Davis said in a 2022 interview. He emphasized that maintaining a high standard of excellence and a rigorous work ethic were the pillars of his long-standing success in a volatile industry. Even into his 90s, Davis remained a central force in Hollywood. He continued to host his legendary Pre-Grammy Gala, an annual event that served as the industry’s most prestigious gathering of talent. From his bungalow at the Beverly Hills Hotel, he personally curated the lineup of performers, often pairing industry veterans with promising newcomers he had personally scouted. The music community began mourning the loss of the titan immediately as news of his passing spread. Longtime collaborator Barry Manilow reflected on their decades-long partnership, noting that while they often argued over creative directions, their mutual respect was unwavering. “It’s been a decent relationship when it comes to the music,” Manilow said. “And then it’s been an even better one as friends.” Davis is survived by his children and a vast legacy of music that continues to define the American soundtrack. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced as of yet. May he rest peacefully.

Cardi B spoke directly to fans during a recent X Spaces conversation, returning to a painful stretch tied to a past breakup that, she said, became volatile after it ended. She told listeners a former partner reacted in ways that included threats of self-harm and intimidation. “You see what happens when a bitch really leaves,” she told listeners. “We all saw how he almost wanted to kill himself when I left. I didn’t even wanna bring that situation up, because I don’t even want to like fake act, like, I’m trying to come at a n***a or something.” She also stepped back to examine how her relationships are discussed, pointing to patterns in the aftermath of breakups. “Why they not with them? Why they don’t be with them when I leave?” she said. “They getting brand new bitches. Why did they be crashing out over me? Since it’s only because of my name. Since it’s only because of my name, since it’s only because I’m Cardi B. Then it’s like why y’all damn near want to fucking kill yourself, and y’all seeing it in real time, everybody seeing it in real time.” Her remarks moved between personal reflection and broader commentary on public scrutiny. Although she avoided naming anyone directly during the livestream, Cardi has previously referenced tensions surrounding her split from Offset. In remarks from 2025, she suggested he had harassed her after she contacted his new partner, sharing screenshots of messages. She also alleged he experienced suicidal thoughts during that period, though those claims remain part of ongoing disputes rather than resolved facts. Court Denies Paternity Bid as Custody Battle Continues; Claims Resurface Legal proceedings connected to their divorce, filed in 2024, continue to move through the courts. A judge recently denied a request from Offset seeking a paternity test related to Cardi and Diggs’ child, adding another contested detail to the case. Custody of their children remains central to the unresolved filings as they continue to litigate aspects of their separation. Outside of their direct statements, figures such as Celina Powell have also contributed to the broader narrative with separate claims circulating on social media. These include allegations involving pregnancy and financial disputes, though none have been independently verified. Still, they continue to resurface in conversations around the couple’s breakup, adding another layer to a heavily scrutinized public split.

The debate over Verzuz resurfaced this week after comments from T.I. prompted a quiet but pointed reaction from Timbaland, who helped create the series during its early pandemic run. What began as a celebratory format for catalog-driven matchups has, in recent years, become a broader talking point about value, legacy, and how artists choose to frame their work publicly. T.I.’s remarks came during an appearance on The Joe Budden Podcast, where he was unusually dismissive of the platform he once showed interest in joining. He described Verzuz as a “poor people activity,” adding that he no longer saw it as worth his attention without what he considered a substantial financial return. The comments stood in contrast to earlier periods when he floated possible matchups with artists such as 50 Cent and Jeezy, conversations that had once generated steady anticipation among fans. The podcast hosts pushed back, describing Verzuz less as competition and more as a curated space for artists to revisit and present their catalogs. T.I., however, framed his shift in perspective as a matter of career stage, suggesting that revisiting old battles no longer fit into how he chooses to spend his time. The exchange quickly spread online, where it reopened familiar disagreements about whether Verzuz is a cultural archive, entertainment spectacle, or business venture. View this post on Instagram Timbaland’s ‘Huh?’ Response Fuels Verzuz Debate Timbaland’s response was brief and unadorned. In the comments section of a Hollywood Unlocked post referencing T.I.’s remarks, he simply wrote, “Huh?” The single-word reply circulated widely, read by many as a mixture of confusion and disbelief from one of the platform’s original architects. Verzuz itself, launched as a pandemic-era experiment, has continued to exist in that in-between space—part celebration, part debate. T.I.’s comments and Timbaland’s reaction now sit within that ongoing tension, reflecting how differently artists interpret the same cultural framework.

Ye (formerly known as Kanye West) and Bianca Censori were in Miami over the weekend during Art Basel, an annual gathering that blends art, fashion, and public performance. Their appearance drew steady attention, though not for any controversy so much as for what unfolded inside a familiar internet format brought briefly back into view. The moment centered on a revived Mannequin Challenge, a viral trend from the mid-2010s that once spread quickly across social platforms. Their participation circulated online, prompting renewed interest in older digital habits. The Mannequin Challenge requires participants to remain completely still while a camera moves through the space, creating the illusion of a frozen scene. In Miami, Ye and Censori stood near the center of the room, surrounded by others holding their positions. The effect gave the gathering a staged, almost theatrical stillness. Censori’s styling, which leaned toward a minimalist swimwear-inspired look, added contrast to the otherwise motionless environment. The setting at Art Basel amplified the scene’s visual composition and encouraged rapid sharing across social feeds afterward. View this post on Instagram A Viral Past, Returning in Fragments Trends like the Mannequin Challenge tend to resurface in cycles, often returning not as full revivals but as fragments of earlier digital moments. Its peak in 2016 is now remembered less for novelty and more for the shared cultural rhythm it once created online. In Miami, the scene involving Ye and Censori read less like invention and more like repetition shaped by memory. Over time, such gestures become shorthand for a particular era of internet culture that continues to echo forward in new settings. In that sense, the Miami appearance reflects how older viral forms re-enter public view without needing to fully return as trends again. The result is a quiet reminder of how digital culture often loops back on itself in unexpected ways today rather than disappearing entirely from view again.