The sentencing follows Davis’ conviction in August 2026. Prosecutors argued that he helped organize the September 1996 shooting as retaliation for an earlier confrontation involving his nephew, Orlando Anderson, and members of Shakur’s entourage.

During the sentencing hearing, Tupac’s sister, Sekyiwa Shakur, described the lasting emotional impact of losing her brother. His brother, Mopreme Shakur, also addressed the court, reflecting on the family milestones the rapper never experienced.

Davis was arrested in 2023 after years of publicly discussing the shooting. In interviews and his 2019 memoir, he acknowledged being inside the vehicle involved but maintained that he did not fire the weapon.

Shakur was 25 when he died on September 13, 1996, six days after being shot while riding with Death Row Records co-founder Suge Knight.

The sentencing brings a significant legal conclusion to one of hip-hop’s longest-running murder investigations.

During a conversation with comedian Andrew Schulz, the rapper shared his perspective on the 2024 battle and explained why Cole’s decision to withdraw may have affected his standing in hip-hop more than Drake’s participation.

Cole initially entered the feud with a response to Lamar but later apologized and removed his diss track, 7 Minute Drill, from streaming services.

50 Cent emphasized that competition has always been part of hip-hop culture. He suggested that stepping away from a lyrical confrontation can carry consequences, especially for artists recognized for their technical abilities.

While questioning Cole’s decision, 50 Cent also acknowledged his individuality and confidence as an artist.

He offered a different assessment of Drake, suggesting that losing a rap battle does not necessarily damage an artist’s commercial success.

His comments revisit a major moment in modern hip-hop, highlighting the different ways competition, reputation, and career success are measured within the genre.

The special event, titled An Evening with Tia Ray, brought together an invitation-only audience of music industry professionals to celebrate her music and growing international presence.

During the performance, Ray delivered more than 10 songs in both Mandarin and English. Her setlist included Love Herby, That Girl, Ah Chu, Beautiful Day, and Pressure. She also welcomed American singer Bren Joy for a collaborative performance of This Is Love.

The appearance marked another important moment in Ray’s international career. Earlier in 2026, she released her English-language album NEW DAY and expanded her reach through an international tour spanning six cities across three continents.

Known for blending contemporary R&B with Chinese musical influences, Ray has continued to build an audience beyond her home country.

Her Grammy Museum performance represents another step in her career as Chinese R&B gains greater visibility on the global music stage.

The rapper has confirmed the new dates as part of his Don’t Be Dumb World Tour, supporting his fourth studio album, Don’t Be Dumb. The announcement follows plans for an extensive European and UK tour.

The Australian and New Zealand leg begins December 5 at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena, followed by a December 9 performance at Sydney’s Afterpay Arena.

Rocky will then travel to Auckland for a December 12 concert at Spark Arena before returning to Australia for shows at Brisbane Entertainment Centre on December 14 and Perth’s RAC Arena on December 17.

Presale tickets become available October 14, while general ticket sales begin October 16.

The upcoming concerts will give audiences across the region an opportunity to hear material from Rocky’s latest album alongside familiar tracks from his catalog.

The December dates mark another international chapter in the rapper’s 2026 touring schedule.

In an Instagram post shared on October 10, 2026, the artist, whose real name is DeAndre Cortez Way, introduced the idea with the message “SOULJA BOY 2028,” signaling his interest in a potential presidential campaign.

The rapper identified several issues he would like to address, including economic opportunity, criminal justice reform, education, and the growing influence of technology and artificial intelligence.

Soulja Boy has built a career spanning music, entertainment, and business. He rose to fame in 2007 with his hit single Crank That (Soulja Boy), which became a major success and helped establish his presence in hip-hop.

His interest in politics adds another dimension to his public career. However, he has not formally declared his candidacy, established an official campaign, or released detailed policy proposals.

For now, his 2028 presidential ambitions remain a public suggestion rather than a confirmed political campaign.

The surprise took place Friday, October 9, at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas. During the set, Tinashe performed two tracks from her new album Popstar, including the live debut of “Nobody Wanna Dance Anymore” and a performance of “Melatonin.”

Earlier that day, Tinashe hinted at the reunion through an Instagram Stories video featuring the two artists dancing backstage to “Drop That Kitty,” their 2015 collaboration with Ty Dolla $ign.

The appearance added another guest moment to Charli XCX’s festival run. During the opening weekend on October 2, she also welcomed Troye Sivan to the stage for performances of “Le Boy” and “Party.”

Charli XCX and Tinashe have shared a musical connection for more than a decade, making the Austin City Limits appearance another chapter in their history together.

The festival performances highlighted Charli XCX’s collaborations while giving Tinashe an opportunity to introduce new material to the Austin audience.

The Atlanta rapper announced the venture on October 9, 2026, introducing Casper Bluff, Nechie, and Dracc as the label’s first signed artists. Gunna will serve as CEO, taking on a larger role in developing new talent while continuing his recording career.

The announcement comes alongside the release of his new single, Pop It, which features a music video directed by Spike Jordan. Tennis star Coco Gauff makes a special appearance, joining Gunna on the court in a video that also features luxury cars, a helicopter, and a coastal mansion.

The label launch marks another career milestone for Gunna following his departure from YSL Records.

Pop It also introduces his upcoming album, Splurge. An official release date has not been announced.

With a new label, fresh artists, and more music on the way, Gunna is expanding his presence in the industry beyond his work as a recording artist.

Held October 6 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena and broadcast October 9, the ceremony recognized established performers and emerging talent across multiple genres.

Wickham received Artist of the Year and Worship Album of the Year for Song of the Saints, adding two major honors to his career.

Josiah Queen earned Song of the Year and Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year for Dusty Bibles, marking another significant milestone for the young singer-songwriter.

Brandon Lake also enjoyed a successful evening, winning Songwriter of the Year (Artist) and Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year for King of Hearts.

Jamie MacDonald was named New Artist of the Year, while Tasha Cobbs Leonard received Contemporary Gospel Album of the Year for TASHA.

The ceremony included live performances, special collaborations, and tributes, bringing together artists from different generations of Christian and gospel music.

During an October 8 appearance on The Morning Show, Cena expressed gratitude for the reference and praised Drake’s creativity, songwriting, and lasting presence in the music industry.

The song features a lyric comparing a chrome belt to John Cena, a nod to the championship belts associated with his WWE career. Quebec first appeared in Drake’s September short film FOMO before becoming available on streaming platforms through the HABIBTI (FOMO) deluxe release.

The moment also gave Cena an opportunity to reflect on his own connection to hip-hop. In 2005, he released his rap album You Can’t See Me, which included music tied to his wrestling persona.

Cena also spoke warmly about Canada, adding another personal connection to Drake’s musical reference.

The exchange highlights the long-standing relationship between professional wrestling and hip-hop, two worlds that have frequently crossed paths throughout Cena’s career.

During an appearance on NBC’s Today show while promoting his upcoming Street Fighter movie, the rapper was asked which artists he would choose to perform at his wedding.

His answer was Jay-Z and Kanye West, also known as Ye. However, he added a humorous condition for Kanye, suggesting the rapper could participate as long as he wasn’t banned at the time.

The response drew attention because of 50 Cent’s long history of public disagreements with both artists. Over the years, he has frequently commented on their careers, business decisions, and personal controversies.

Despite those past tensions, his choices acknowledged the two rappers’ prominent places in hip-hop.

The conversation was lighthearted, and 50 Cent did not announce any wedding plans or actual performances.

For now, the possibility of Jay-Z and Kanye West sharing the stage at a 50 Cent wedding remains nothing more than a playful idea.