Month: August 2023

Jhene Aiko and her longtime partner Big Sean are reportedly seeking legal protection against an overzealous fan, according to TMZ.

According to the outlet, the fan, who is reportedly named Ian Craig Lees, has shown up at several concerts of Sean’s and Aiko’s, as well as events where either of the two have appeared on the bill, and even at Aiko’s Pacific Palisades home.

In documents obtained by TMZ, Aiko claims that the 29-year-old Lees is a stranger to her, but is apparently determined to meet and make contact with her. Aiko also noted that she fears for her life, as Lees has become more and more relentless.

In another incident, Aiko claims Lee had breached security within her gated community and allegedly got into a physical altercation with a security officer in the neighborhood. He also allegedly entered Aiko’s home, which she shares with Sean and her two children.

Aiko reportedly attempted to obtain a temporary restraining order against Lees, which would keep him from coming within 100 yards of her, Sean, and her children. However, the request was reportedly denied by a judge.

The aforementioned judge has reportedly scheduled a court hearing on the matter to take place on September 14.

A. Savage has announced his second solo album is on the way, outside of his work in Parquet Courts. Fans can expect to hear the new record, Several Songs About Fire, later this fall.

Until then, the rocking lead single “Elvis In The Army” is available to listen to now, complete with a dreamy B&W music video that was shot in Paris by director Emile Moutaud.

“We often describe ourselves in geographic terms. American, New Yorker — two terms that I’ve used to identify myself that have to do with being from or of a certain place,” he shared in a statement. “So ‘Elvis in the Army’ is a bit of an inventory of those labels. They have less to do with geography than we realize. Really we’re just talking about ourselves, then framing certain characteristics geographically.”

“No matter where I live I’ll have an American psyche until the day I die, for better or for worse,” he added. “I’ll always be of America. And I can’t imagine a time where New York doesn’t feel like home. But despite that, I’d rather not be associated with a place, at least for now.”

Check out A. Savage’s “Elvis In The Army” above. Below, find the complete tracklist and cover art for the album.

1. “Hurtin’ Or Healed”
2. “Elvis In The Army”
3. “Le Grande Balloon”
4. “My My, My Dear”
5. “Riding Cobbles”
6. “Mountain Time”
7. “David’s Dead”
8. “Thanksgiving Prayer”
9. “My New Green Coat”
10. “Out Of Focus”

Several Songs About Fire is out 10/6 via Rough Trade Records. Find more information here.

Vladimir Putin’s 2023 is probably not as fun as he imagined that it would be. He likely planned on instantly winning after invading Ukraine and then retiring to his pickle hideout for a little R&R after a whirl on his cosmetology train. Instead, this war has dragged forth with Ukraine putting up a remarkable and protracted display of resistance.

What really might be the losing battle, however, is that Russia’s ruble tanked hard in recent weeks, and Putin might very well lose his longtime position when all is said and done. In the meantime, however, the Russian president has decided that he would really like to tie up this war, which he is somehow blaming on the West due to NATO expansion. He really said that to the BRICS summit, via CNBC:

“Our actions in Ukraine are dictated by only one thing — to end the war that was unleashed by the West and its satellites against the people who live in the Donbas,” Putin said, referring to the eastern part of Ukraine where Russian proxies have been fighting Ukrainian forces since 2014.

“I want to note that it was the desire to maintain their hegemony in the world, the desire of some countries to maintain this hegemony that led to the severe crisis in Ukraine,” he added.

This happened shortly after a drone attack hit Moscow skyscrapers, and from the BBC, Ukrainian President Voldomyr Zelensky has declared that his nation will reclaim Crimea, nearly a decade after Russian annexation. It sounds like, as the kids say, Putin has f*cked around, and maybe, just maybe, he’s finding out.

(Via CNBC & BBC)

The 2023 FIBA Men’s Basketball World Cup will get underway this Friday, August 25, with games being played in the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia for this year’s event. As is the case at most every international basketball event, Team USA is the heavy favorite at -125 to win it all, but the Americans finished seventh at the 2019 World Cup (where Spain beat Argentina in the finals) and are bringing a young team without much of any international experience, meaning the outcome of this year’s tournament is far from a certainty.

As such, a number of teams have hopes of making a run at the World Cup crown, while plenty of others are looking to take a stride forward with the best result in their country’s recent basketball history. For USA Basketball, their road to redemption starts in Group C, where they are the prohibitive favorites to win the group ahead of Greece, Jordan, and New Zealand (odds via DraftKings).

USA -2500
Greece +900
New Zealand +3500
Jordan +10000

Still, this is a young American team that is still trying to find a rhythm, and will look to use the three group games to get on the same page and try to create more flow for the knockout stage. Behind them in the group is a Greece team without its top superstar, as Giannis Antetokounmpo is taking this World Cup off, and New Zealand and Jordan battling for a knockout stage berth.

Here we’ll look at some players to watch, the biggest game, and the full schedule for Group B.

Players to Watch

Georgios Papagiannis (Greece): Most American basketball fans will remember Papagiannis as having a very brief and unspectacular NBA career with the Sacramento Kings, but since returning to Greece he’s regained the form that made him an intriguing prospect years ago. In three games with the national squad in qualifiers, Papagiannis averaged 16.3 points and 7.7 rebounds per game on 71 percent shooting. Against Team USA in tune-up play, Papagiannis had 11 points on 4-of-6 shooting and figures to play a prominent role for the Greek side, with the other familiar name on the roster to NBA fans being Thanasis Antetokounmpo.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (Jordan): Like Kyle Anderson on China, not many would’ve expected to find Hollis-Jefferson on Jordan’s national team, but he will be the most (and probably only) recognizable name for NBA fans tuning in to the World Cup and watching Jordan. Hollis-Jefferson has played all over since last appearing in the NBA in 2021, but was not part of the roster for qualifiers. Still, one would think he will be a focal point for the team and will look to help Jordan to a stunning run to the knockout round.

Finn Delany (New Zealand): Delany has led New Zealand in scoring in three of their four tune-up games against China, Canada, and Italy. The 6’7 forward gives the Tall Blacks (which, as an aside is an incredible nickname for a national team) some floor-spacing from the frontcourt, having shot 37.6 percent from three last season in his first year playing in Germany’s top league. There aren’t any NBA names on New Zealand’s squad for the World Cup, but Delany is among the names you’re likely to hear most when the Tall Blacks are in action.

Jalen Brunson (USA): Early on it’s looked like the top two players for Team USA are going to be Anthony Edwards and Jaren Jackson Jr., with Edwards taking on the role of lead scorer and Jackson as the defensive anchor. However, if the Americans are going to avoid a similar fate to a few years ago, they’re going to need others to step up around them. It is clear that Steve Kerr holds Jalen Brunson in high regard, talking about him being a natural leader and, thus, handing him the keys as the starting point guard for Team USA. However, Brunson has some serious competition for that spot with Tyrese Haliburton playing very well in exhibition play and there will be plenty of eyes on how Kerr handles the point guard rotation. In their tune-up against Spain, Brunson was terrific, scoring 23 points and leading the offense, but we saw against Germany how the starting unit could get bogged down at times in the halfcourt. It’ll be incumbent on Brunson to keep things humming along with that group, because if not, there will be plenty of pressure from the outside for there to be a lineup change.

Brandon Ingram (USA): On the wing, Brandon Ingram is the player who could be another dynamic scoring option alongside Edwards, but to this point he hasn’t quite found his stride in tune-up play. Given there’s not a ton of competition in Group C, group play should provide an opportunity to try and get guys like Ingram going and help them find their comfort level on the team. His skillset as a shot-maker is something they’ll want to be able to lean on down the road against stiffer competition, but they need him in rhythm to be able to do so. If he can’t find that level of comfort, we might see Kerr have to shake up the lineups to go with some of the more complementary wings who don’t need the ball in their hands as much to get a bit more flow into the offense.

Schedule/TV Info (all times EST)

Aug. 26
Jordan vs. Greece, 4:00 a.m., ESPN+
USA vs. New Zealand, 8:00 a.m., ESPN2

Aug. 28
New Zealand vs. Jordan, 4:30 a.m., ESPN+
Greece vs. USA, 8:00 a.m., ESPN2

Aug. 30
USA vs. Jordan, 4:30 a.m., ESPN2
Greece vs. New Zealand, 8:30 a.m., ESPN+

Game to Watch

Greece vs. New Zealand: There isn’t supposed to be a real stern test for the Americans in this group considering they beat Greece by 22 in exhibition play this month, but the final game of the group figures to be a play-in opportunity to the knockout rounds. Greece will be favored as the bigger squad and with New Zealand having some defensive woes in their tune-up action, but if the Tall Blacks can find it from three-point range on August 30 they can make things interesting.

It’s all “Good Good” in the hood in Usher‘s latest video, which finds him teaming up with fellow ATLiens 21 Savage and Summer Walker for a nostalgic ballad about remaining friends after a relationship ends. “Usually my exes turn to enemies,” Usher croons in his verse, “But this is different / ‘Cause we don’ got closer now that you ain’t with me.” Summer, meanwhile, wishes her ex “good sex and good sleep,” while 21 jokes that he’ll still “have you grabbing them sheets” while offering to “help pay for the wigs and I help with the lease.”

The video itself opens with the three artists standing on a bridge overlooking the highway with the city’s downtown skyline as a backdrop. Usher, dressed in a classic Atlanta fit — a baggy sweatsuit, complete with a wave cap, chains, and gold teeth — does his choreo solo while the scene around him changes from day to night and back (he also dances in a waistcoat, which is some wild styling, even for him). Walker lounges in a well-appointed hotel room in her scenes, bedecked in a bathrobe (with matching slippers!) and a headwrap. For his part, 21 Savage eats solo at a restaurant with a mirror image of himself, each side chowing down on a seafood meal representing his rags-to-riches status.

Watch the video for “Good Good” above.

Wouldn’t it be nice if there was an easy, delicious way to improve your gut health? That’s the idea behind SuperGut. This innovative nutrition company is dedicated to fueling and empowering the body through gut-balancing products. Their mission is to provide everyone access to real nutrition that seamlessly fits into the busiest of lives. And they’ve truly hit the mark with their delicious
Gut Balancing Prebiotic Shake.

Their vegan chocolate shake is no ordinary health drink – it’s a flavor-packed, gut-boosting revolution. With a rich, satisfying taste and cutting-edge nutritional science, this prebiotic proves that it’s possible for great taste and good health to go hand in hand.

The Gut Balancing Prebiotic Shake

What sets this beverage apart from other health drinks? To begin, it’s vegan-friendly, blending dietary inclusivity with health empowerment. The secret weapon? A potent dose of prebiotics, 20g of fiber, and 15g of high-quality protein transforms the shake into a complete meal. It’s not just a drink; it’s a taste-infused wellness experience that fits into the palm of your hand.

The shake owes its gut-friendly benefits to an ensemble of meticulously sourced, all-natural ingredients. Unripened green bananas and oat beta-glucan infuse it with prebiotic fiber, while a mix of 26 essential vitamins and minerals offers an extra health kick. All of this without a single drop of artificial flavors, sweeteners, or colors. Plus, with no soy involved, it’s a perfect match for a diverse range of dietary needs.

The Power of Prebiotics

Prebiotics, in simple terms, are like superfoods for the beneficial bacteria residing in our gut. These compounds, primarily dietary fibers, resist digestion in the upper part of our gastrointestinal tract and nourish the healthy bacteria in our gut. The result? A vibrant, well-balanced gut microbiome. But the magic of prebiotics extends beyond our bellies. They’ve been linked to improved digestion, better immune function, enhanced mental health, and even weight management. Basically, prebiotics keep the good guys in your gut happy, which, in turn, keeps you happy and healthy.

That’s where
SuperGut’s Prebiotic Shake shines. It’s brimming with two sources of prebiotics – unripened green bananas and oat beta-glucan.

Unripened green bananas are rich in resistant starch, a type of fiber known to nourish our gut bacteria. Meanwhile, oat beta glucan has a double role – it’s been associated with lower cholesterol levels and promoting the growth of friendly gut bacteria. By bringing these two power-packed prebiotics together, SuperGut doesn’t just aim to balance your gut; it also seeks to elevate your overall health and well-being. In essence, SuperGut’s shake is like a prebiotic party for your gut, where every sip contributes to a healthier you.

The SuperGut Story

SuperGut is a company on a mission to transform our approach to health through the power of the gut microbiome. The central ethos of SuperGut is the belief that everyone deserves robust energy, a clear mind, sound sleep, and a sustainable metabolism. The Gut Balancing Prebiotic Shake is a testament to this mission, combining convenience, taste, and high-quality nutrition in one satisfying sip.

At the heart of SuperGut is a personal story. Founder and CEO Marc Washington began SuperGut in memory of his sister, Monica. Inspired to help everyone reclaim and sustain control over their bodies, Marc translated his mission into a broad-reaching, scientifically-backed venture. It’s a testament to the power of personal stories transforming into universal solutions, bridging gaps in health and wellness along the way.

But SuperGut isn’t just about good intentions; it’s backed by a commitment to rigorous science. Their diverse team of scientists, health experts, and innovators work together to create products that truly make a difference. With an esteemed Scientific Advisory Board boasting leaders in health, nutrition, and the gut microbiome, SuperGut ensures their products aren’t just palatable but also scientifically validated. In short, they’re a company that’s as dedicated to taste as they are to the truth. So, when you sip on a
SuperGut shake, you’re not just feeding your gut, but fueling a mission of transformative health.

Real-Life Transformations

It’s one thing to talk about the science and potential benefits of the Gut Balancing Prebiotic Shake, but it’s another thing to hear firsthand from the people whose lives have been positively transformed by it.

Take, for example, one happy customer who reported feeling amazing, with increased energy and a heightened sense of calm after introducing SuperGut into their routine. Another customer found the shake to be an excellent meal supplement, praising its ability to provide a filling meal replacement that curbed overeating throughout the day. Yet another noted the surprising and delightful side effect of shedding 7 pounds within two weeks of starting the shakes.

Not only are people experiencing these remarkable transformations, but they’re also finding that
the Gut Balancing Prebiotic Shake fits seamlessly into their daily routines. Whether it’s a quick breakfast to kick-start the day, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a post-workout refuel, the shake is as versatile as it is beneficial. Customers have mixed it with water, various types of milk, or even coconut milk for an extra tropical twist. So, not only is this shake great for your gut, but it’s also flexible enough to accommodate your lifestyle and taste preferences, making the path to a healthier you an enjoyable journey.

Try It Today

It’s often challenging to make choices that balance flavor, convenience, and nutrition. SuperGut’s Gut Balancing Prebiotic Shake does just that. Its remarkable fusion of science-backed ingredients, including vegan protein, fiber, and potent prebiotics, is a testament to the company’s commitment to crafting products that contribute to our well-being. It’s an offering that aligns with SuperGut’s mission to bring good energy, a clear mind, and sustained metabolism into everyone’s reach.

So, why not give it a shot?
Click here to taste this delightful vegan chocolate shake and experience the transformation. Shake up your daily routine with SuperGut and start your journey towards better gut health today. Or, as SuperGut says, it’s time to trust your gut with them.

Dave Grohl, Chad Smith, and Shane Hawkins held a truly wild set at the Rock N Roll Pizza Bar in Simi Valley, California earlier this week. The three musicians had appeared as a set from the cover band Chevy Metal.

The group had been formed by the late Red Hot Chili Peppers’ drummer Taylor Hawkins, who would play with them as a continued side project. This made the set all the more emotional, as his son Shane played alongside Smith and Grohl.

It featured 17 songs, including the opening performance of The Police’s 1978 song, “Next To You,” as Grohl contributed guitar and backing vocals. Other tracks that were included on the setlist were Thin Lizzy’s “Jailbreak,” The Rolling Stones’ “B*tch,” Van Halen’s “Everybody Wants Some,” “Jamie’s Cryin” and “Unchained,” and additional rock anthems from Led Zeppelin, Mötley Crüe, David Bowie, Queen, and The Kinks.

During another performance of a Van Halen cover, the group was also joined by Stephen Perkins from Jane’s Addiction, which only added to the already-rocking night.

By the end of the evening, Smith was commanding the drums as the set finished with AC/DC’s “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap.”

Check out some videos from their performance below.

New music from Soccer Mommy is on the way. Earlier this summer, she released a cover of Sheryl Crow’s hit single, “Soak Up The Sun.” Today (August 23), she’s announced that she will drop a new EP called Karaoke Night, filled with covers of some of her favorite songs by her favorite artists.

Upon the announcement, Soccer Mommy has shared a cover of a Taylor Swift deep cut — “I’m Only Me When I’m With You” from Swift’s self-titled debut album.

“I really wanted to cover this song because it’s one of my favorites from Taylor’s first album,” said Soccer Mommy in a statement. “I listened to that record so much when I was a kid and I think it had a lot of influence on me then.”

In addition to the covers of “Soak Up The Sun” and “I’m Only Me When I’m With You,” Soccer Mommy will also share covers of songs by Pavement, R.E.M., and Slowdive on Karaoke Night.

You can listen to the cover of “I’m Only Me When I’m With You” above and see the Karaoke Night cover art and tracklist below.

1. “Here (Pavement Cover)”
2. “Soak Up The Sun (Sheryl Crow Cover)”
3. “Dagger (Slowdive Cover)”
4. “I’m Only Me When I’m With You (Taylor Swift Cover)”
5. “Losing My Religion (R.E.M. Cover)”

Karaoke Night is out 9/22 via Loma Vista. Find more information here.

On social media, Donald Trump is boasting about how he’ll “proudly” be arrested in Georgia on Thursday. But in private, the seriousness of the situation is reportedly sinking in.

An insider told Page Six that the former president, who plans to turn himself to face charges that he deliberately sought to overturn the 2020 election results in the state, is “showing signs that it’s wearing on him.” The indictment has “brought about a change” in Trump. “He’s not so confident anymore. He’s not acting so cocky anymore. He’s not lashing out so much. The arrogance is gone,” the insider said. If Trump is only drinking nine cans of Diet Coke a day, not his usual dozen, we’ll know he’s Going Through It.

Trump has called the charges a “witch hunt” and “politically-inspired.” But behind closed doors, our source says that Trump is “nervous,” because “there are so many defendants, he believes that a bunch of them are going to make deals and flip on him.” Trump’s bond has been set at $200,000, and he has been ordered to refrain from intimidating his co-defendants or witnesses, and not communicate about the facts of the case with them.

Rudy Giuliani has the chance to do the funniest thing ever.

(Via Page Six)

Sexyy Red has been having an incredible year. Her viral hit “Pound Town” led to some impressive opportunities, from an invite to the BET Awards to an “iconic” booking at Rolling Loud Miami. Her dreams keep coming true — including one in which she meets Tyler The Creator, apparently. The 25-year-old naturally would have grown up on Tyler’s grungy hits, so it makes sense that she’d be so excited to meet him in real life:

However, once the photos of their meetup hit social media, fans found that they could only focus on one thing: Tyler’s rump. The two rappers both poked it out for an irreverent middle finger pose, but users were bemused to learn that T’s been packing one ginormous pooper. Of course, Tyler’s been into skateboarding and biking practically his entire life, so it makes sense that his glutes would be well-developed — it’s just that nobody was aware just HOW well-developed.

The responses are as hilarious as they are varied, with fans comparing Tyler’s backside to other famously rotund derrieres like those of Kim Kardashian and Cardi B. Naturally, the jokes flew fast and furiously, with one user cracking, “They having a bake off.” Another common claim was fans wondering if Tyler had joined the BBL trend, getting a Brazilian butt lift for added badonk. You can see just some of the funny responses below.